Winter travel may not be something that’s on your radar yet, but with the many unique things to do in Hocking Hills and our romantic cabin getaways at your fingertips, it will be! Winter in Hocking Hills brings a refreshing change of pace that many travelers find irresistible. The crowds fade, the scenery transforms, and the region’s quiet beauty takes center stage.
Couples looking for things to do in Hocking Hills during the colder months discover a landscape filled with sparkling cliffs, frost-covered forests, and peaceful trails that feel wonderfully intimate. It is a season that invites slower moments, thoughtful conversations, plenty of time to reconnect, and a refreshing shift from everyday life. The temperatures may be dropping, but the charm factor rises with icy waterfalls, soft snowfall, and dramatic rock formations that seem even more striking against the winter sky.
For many couples in the Midwest and around the world, winter is considered one of the most romantic seasons for getaways, in part thanks to these unique experiences that feel private, and the freedom to enjoy the landscape in a new way. When you add the right accommodations into the mix, a simple winter getaway becomes a truly unforgettable escape.
Glenlaurel, A Scottish Inn & Cottages, hosts some of the most romantic Hocking Hills cabins. Our cozy accommodations elevate the experience with luxurious lodging, high-end dining, and a warm atmosphere that brings romance to the forefront. It is the ultimate destination for a winter retreat, complete with our signature hospitality that extends far beyond an ordinary lodging experience. If you’re ready to experience all the best things to do in Hocking Hills this winter, it’s time to book your stay at our top-tier Hocking Hills lodging.
The Best Things to Do in Hocking Hills in Winter
Winter in the Hocking Hills is nothing short of exquisite. The forests take on a soft glow, frozen waterfalls create stunning natural sculptures, and the popular trails feel more intimate without the warm-weather crowds. Everything about the landscape slows down during the winter, leaving you freer than ever before to share in the day’s peaceful moments with thoughtful conversations and shared adventures.
Whether you’re staying onsite near our Hocking Hills Cabins or venturing beyond our scenic property and private nature trails, winter in Hocking Hills is an experience you won’t want to miss. The following list is by no means complete, but it’s an excellent start for experiencing the best things to do in Hocking Hills this winter.
How to Enjoy Winter in Hocking Hills
- Be one of the very few to experience the Camusfearna Gorge this winter. Hiking is one of the most iconic things to do in Hocking Hills year-round, and there’s no place more magical than our own private Hocking Hills hiking trails through the gorge.
- If you’re willing to venture off-site, you’ll be well-rewarded with a trip to Old Man’s Cave at Hocking Hills State Park in winter. Take the time to wander through one of the region’s most iconic spots and enjoy icy rock formations, winter views, and peaceful trails that are remarkably quiet at this time of year.
- Visiting Ash Cave at Hocking Hills State Park is another top choice among things to do in Hocking Hills this winter. This impressive cave structure transforms into a dramatic winter scene, often showcasing frozen waterfalls and snow-covered surroundings that make for incredible photos.
- There are countless other scenic winter hikes in Hocking Hills worth taking, including those around Cedar Falls, Cantwell Cliffs, and Conkle’s Hollow, pictured above.
- How about staying inside for a bit? Warming up at local wineries or breweries is one of the top things to do in Hocking Hills in winter, including at places like Revolution Rockbridge Winery.
- This is also a great time of year to browse for unique handmade items, local crafts, and specialty gifts in nearby boutiques and artist studios.
- How about watching all of this incredible scenery unfold before your eyes without having to brave the elements? Taking a scenic drive across the region’s rolling hills and through frosted forests is one of the most magical things to do in Hocking Hills in winter.
- When you need a break from the winter elements, drive just 25 minutes away, and stop in for a fun afternoon at the Ohio Glass Museum & Glass Blowing Studio in Lancaster. It’s one of the most unique things to do in Hocking Hills and is well worth the detour!
- Don’t miss a fantastic 6-course dinner at our exceptional Hocking Hills restaurant. Legendary for its Scottish flair, quality ingredients, and first-class service, it’s a signature part of every stay at our cabins, and certainly one of the top things to do in Hocking Hills.
Your Hocking Hills Cabin Getaways Start Here
The crofts and cottages at Glenlaurel bring a completely different level of comfort and romance to Hocking Hills cabin getaways. These private cabin-like accommodations feel like your own little hideaway, with inviting fireplaces, luxurious bedding, and thoughtful details that make winter in Hocking Hills feel extra special. Whether you are unwinding after a day of exploring all of the fantastic things to do in Hocking Hills or simply enjoying a slow morning together, these spaces encourage you to relax, reconnect, and thoroughly savor your time away.
There are seven total crofts at Glenlaurel, each overlooking a beautiful part of our property and featuring a kitchenette, living room, king bed, gas-log fireplace, screened porch, and a private hot tub. Our cottages are slightly larger Hocking Hills cabins, and feature kitchenettes, inviting stone fireplaces and Franklin stoves, king-size beds, private hot tubs, and a little more space to relax and unwind.
Unlike other Hocking Hills cabins and hotels in the area, the guest experience at Glenlaurel is seamless, with a resort-style experience that brings everything together in one gorgeous place for a complete romantic getaway. The beautiful grounds, refined Scottish-inspired atmosphere, and exceptional dining all support the feeling that you are somewhere truly unique. Enhance your stay by selecting one of our packages or adding a pampering treat from our selection of add-ons for something a little extra indulgent during your winter getaways.
Our Hocking Hills Cabins are close enough to all the best things to do in Hocking Hills for adults, despite feeling wonderfully removed from the busier parts of the region. Whether you are celebrating something special or simply craving a change of scenery, a winter stay at Glenlaurel turns an ordinary trip into a memorable Hocking Hills cabin getaway that you will want to repeat year after year. Book your cabin getaway today!
