Stay on Trail

By staying on the marked trail you not only protect yourself but also the natural habitat. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources has intentionally designated trail space to be safe for hikers and to protect the natural flora and fauna of the area.

● All accidental fatalities at the Hocking Hills State Park are the result of hikers leaving the designated trails. These events unfortunately happen every year. Choose safety by staying on designated trails and by following the signage. 

●  Choosing to leave the trail will lead to safety hazards as well as the destruction of the natural elements. There are many cliffs and caverns in the Hocking Hills and it is easy to fall and harm yourself. This not only endangers your life but also the lives of the rescue workers that who come to your aid. This can all be avoided by staying on the marked trails. 

● When hiking, be aware of the vegetation surrounding the paths. Allowing these wildlife habitats to grow helps to restore the forest as part of the natural cycles of life. 

● While the pools of water look inviting, they are off-limits for many reasons. Water is not the only thing that falls off the cliffs. There have been many incidents where rocks, logs, and large branches have come down the waterfall and severely injured, or fatally wounded, guests that are in the pools below. Bug spray and sunscreen will wash off in the pools and kill the creatures that live in the water. By walking in the pools and creeks you can crush water creatures’ eggs. 

The Hocking Hills has stunning scenery and is the Crown Jewel of Ohio State Parks. Being naturally formed there are many hazards which you can easily avoid, particularly surrounding cliffs and the easiest way of doing this is to stay on trail. Observe the trail closely so you don’t get too close to the edge. We have stories of folks wanting to get that extreme selfie, ignoring all advice and injuring themselves. Sometimes fatally. Don’t be that guy. If you think you may have selfie-itis please seek advice before seeking the trails. Believe us when we tell you a visit to the Hocking Hills way more enjoyable when going home on your own steam.