#Gates50States

A jewel of Ohio, Hocking Hills State Park and the surrounding trail heads and cabins for rent make for the quintessential Ohio Side Trip.  Whether you’re 3 hours away or 5 states away, the slow pace, rustic ambiance and close-to-nature feel of this area of the Buckeye State will provide the relaxation and family memories you’re looking for.

We booked the trip relatively last-minute, and this made finding an affordable cabin that could sleep five a bit difficult.  The place we settled on would have slept four better, but we’ve been learning to be flexible when it comes to accommodations (see Disney, the 51st State), and the kids were good sports.

Ohio’s state parks have pretty well marked trails, and when you go in any sort of busy season, you’ll find lots of people taking advantage of those trails.

We visited Old Man’s Cave, because… well… you kind of have to visit Old Man’s Cave when you go to Hocking Hills.  The trail is not difficult even for young kids to navigate, and the waterfalls and huge ledges kept their attention and wonder.  Cantwell Cliffs also suited our 7 and 5.5 year olds very nicely.  Make sure to pack some water with you, particularly during the hot, humid months, as thirsty kids are often more whiny kids.

As far as #gates50states goes, we’re taking Ohio in many small bites.  Check another bite off the list.