While the variety of unique attractions and fantastic restaurants are great reasons to visit Hocking Hills, most of our guests come to immerse in the beauty of nature and explore the park’s large network of hiking trails. One popular hiking trail near the Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls that we highly recommend is the Grandma Gatewood Trail. This beautiful 6-mile stretch is a great way to leave your worries behind and rejuvenate your mind and body in a serene and peaceful setting. Read on to learn more about this fantastic hiking trail and other routes you can enjoy along the way.
The Grandma Gatewood Trail is just one of the many places to explore during your Hocking Hills getaway. Request your free copy of our Vacation Guide right now and instantly receive a full list of our area’s top hiking trails, activities, attractions, and more that you won’t want to skip.
History of the Grandma Gatewood Trail
The Grandma Gatewood Trail was named after a regular Hocking Hills trailblazer known as Emma Rowena Gatewood. Born in Guyan Township, Ohio in 1887, Grandma Gatewood spent most of her life doing what she loved most, hiking. She often went for long walks to escape her abusive marriage, but it wasn’t until her children were grown that she became famous for hiking. Rumor has it that she would leave her home and keep walking and walking until she could go no further. She also unknowingly became the inspiration for light packing during hikes since she would only bring an army blanket, raincoat, and plastic shower curtain with her. All the rest she would harvest from the land.
Grandma Gatewood participated in many famous hikes, but of them all, her favorite was the 6-mile trail that wound through the Hocking Hills State Park from Ash Cave to Old Man’s Cave. In fact, she loved this trail so much that she was the first to start the annual Winter Hike that allowed hikers like herself to blaze the trail each January. Since she spent many of her hiking days on this trail, it eventually came to be named after her. Although Emma Gatewood passed in 1973, many visitors follow in her footsteps to this day to experience the incredible beauty and serenity of the Grandma Gatewood Trail.
How to Enjoy the Grandma Gatewood Trail For Yourself
Many hikers get confused when they can’t find the Grandma Gatewood Trail on a Hocking Hills trail map. The reason for this is because the Grandma Gatewood Trail is actually a part of the Buckeye Trail. This 1,400-mile trail is one of the most frequented in the state and is comprised of 26 unique sections. The Grandma Gatewood Trail officially begins at the Upper Falls of Old Man’s Cave and continues downstream. During your journey, you will encounter several Hocking Hills State Park landmarks such as Devil’s Bathtub, Broken Rock Falls, Cedar Falls, and the towering 100-foot Whispering Falls. Ash Cave, Ohio’s largest recess cave, is the trail’s final destination. The breathtaking scenery and easy to moderate terrain of the Grandma Gatewood Trail have made it a favorite of many hikers, and we’re sure you’ll agree.
Experience the Region’s Best Hiking During Your Stay With Us
After your adventure down the Grandma Gatewood Trail in the Hocking Hills, return to the Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls for some well-deserved relaxation. Our beautiful property is green-certified and works to preserve the beauty of the Hocking Hills instead of competing with it. That way, you and your significant other, friends, or family can enjoy peace, solitude, and luxury modern amenities together. Find your favorite accommodation from our collection of stunning Hocking Hills geodomes, cabins, cottages, and brand new yurts! You also won’t want to miss dining at our on-site restaurant, Kindred Spirits, or de-stressing in the rejuvenating spa. It’s everything you need and more to relax, restore your peace of mind, and make lifelong memories.
Book your next getaway with us today! We can’t wait to see you in the Hocking Hills soon.