If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to explore Hocking Hills State Park, May is it. The crowds haven’t arrived yet, the air is still crisp, and the landscape is truly magical — waterfalls are running full force, wildflowers are carpeting the forest floor, and trails are almost like secrets only you’ve discovered.
If you’re planning a visit, check out our top picks for things to do in Hocking Hills in May and be sure to add some to your itinerary.
And to get even more ideas for your trip, be sure to download our free Vacation Guide! It’s full of recommendations on restaurants, activities, events, and the best places to stay.
Why May Is the Best Time to Visit Hocking Hills
Spring shoulder season is a well-kept secret among repeat visitors to Hocking Hills. By May, temperatures typically settle into the mid-60s to low 70s — ideal hiking weather — and wildflowers are in full bloom along most of the gorge trails. With fewer crowds and better accommodation rates (pre-summer rush), it really is a fantastic time to visit.
Must-See Hocking Hills Waterfalls in Spring
Cedar Falls
Widely considered the most picturesque waterfall in Ohio, Cedar Falls is at its absolute best in spring. The 50-foot cascade tumbles over black hand sandstone into a hemlock-lined plunge pool, and with May water levels, the sound alone is worth the short hike in from the parking lot. The trail to Cedar Falls is well-maintained and accessible, making it a great anchor stop for any itinerary.
Ash Cave
Ash Cave’s claim to fame is its size — it’s the largest recess cave in Ohio, stretching nearly 700 feet wide and 100 feet deep. In spring, a seasonal waterfall drops from the sandstone rim above, adding a dramatic layer to an already awe-inspiring landmark. The flat, paved trail into Ash Cave is less than half a mile and one of the most accessible hikes in the park.
Upper Falls at Old Man’s Cave
The upper falls at Old Man’s Cave are dramatic year-round, but spring runoff pushes them to their visual peak. The falls drop into the upper gorge just above the famous cave recess, and the surrounding rock formations, carved over thousands of years, make this a true spectacle. Plan to spend at least an hour in this section of the park.
Best Hocking Hills Spring Hiking Trails
Hocking Hills offers hiking trails for every ability level, but these are the standouts for a May visit:
Gorge Trail (Old Man’s Cave to Cedar Falls)
This is the signature hike of Hocking Hills and one of the most rewarding hiking trails in Ohio. The trail connects two of the park’s most iconic landmarks through hemlock gorges, past multiple waterfalls, and alongside Queer Creek. If you’re up for a longer hike, go point-to-point, but if you need a shorter or easier trek, the trail operates as an out-and-back from both Old Man’s Cave and Cedar Falls’ parking areas.
- Distance: 5.2 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 239 ft
- Trail Map
Conkle’s Hollow
Gorge Trail or Rim Trail — Choose your experience: the gorge trail at Conkle’s Hollow is a gentle, flat walk along the stream through towering cliffs. The rim trail above is more strenuous but rewards hikers with sweeping views of the forest stretching toward the horizon. Both are worth doing if time allows.
- Distance: Gorge Trail: 0.75 miles | Rim Trail: 2 to 2.5 miles
- Difficulty: Gorge Trail: Easy | Rim Trail: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: Gorge Trail: 75 ft | Rim Trail: around 400 feet
- Trail Map
Rock House Trail
Rock House is the only true cave in Hocking Hills — a tunnel-like formation carved into the cliff face with window-like openings that frame views of the surrounding gorge. It’s a great stop if you’re combining multiple parks in a single day.
- Distance: 1.3 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 249 ft
- Trail Map
Try Rock Climbing at Hocking State Forest
If hiking trails aren’t enough of a challenge, Hocking Hills is also home to excellent rock climbing and rappelling terrain. Hocking State Forest, just east of Conkle’s Hollow, has designated climbing areas where skilled climbers can test themselves on the sandstone bluffs. Local outfitter High Rock Adventures offers guided experiences for all skill levels, including rappelling from up to 70 feet above the forest floor.
A Sample One-Day May Itinerary
Morning: Arrive at Old Man’s Cave early. Walk the upper gorge and upper falls before the day crowds arrive.
Continue south on the Gorge Trail toward Cedar Falls. Stop along the way at the lower falls and Hemlock Bridge.
Afternoon: Arrive at Cedar Falls. Take your time. This is the highlight. Afterward, drive to Ash Cave for lunch at the picnic area, then walk in to see the falls and cave recess.
Early Evening Optional Stop: Drive to Cantwell Cliffs for a quieter close to the day, then finish with dinner at the Inn & Spa at Cedar Hills’ award-winning restaurant, Kindred Spirits.
Where to Stay: Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls
After a gorgeous May day in Hocking Hills, nothing quite compares to coming back to the Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls. Surrounded by the quiet expanse of a state park, the property is designed around one idea: total relaxation after a full day on the trails.
Enjoy soaker tubs, exceptional spa services, plush bedding, in-room amenities, and the kind of stillness that’s hard to find anywhere else. Choose from cabins, cottages, geodomes, lodges, and Pacific-style yurts and find your dream escape.
Book your stay directly with our team, and we will help you find the perfect room for your May getaway. The trails are waiting!