COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) invites families to enjoy the stunning autumn scenery of the Hocking Hills region during its annual Fall Color festivities, taking place on October 26-27. The events will be hosted at the historic Hocking State Forest Cabin and Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve.
“Time spent in Ohio’s state forests and nature preserves is invaluable, especially during the fall when the beauty of our natural landscapes is on full display,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz.
Hocking State Forest Fall Color Tour
Date: Saturday, October 26
Time: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Hocking State Forest Fall Color Tour offers visitors a chance to explore the forest through wagon rides, educational displays, and presentations. Attendees can learn about firewood processing, chainsaw safety, and wildfire fighting equipment. Professional foresters will be on hand to provide insights into tree identification and forest management practices.
The tour begins at the historic cabin located across from the Hocking State Forest headquarters at 19275 State Route 374 in Rockbridge, Ohio. Ample parking is available, and all activities are within walking distance from the parking area.
Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve Fall Open House
Dates: Saturday, October 26 and Sunday, October 27
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days
Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve will feature a Fall Open House, showcasing breathtaking vistas of fall colors from the 2.5-mile Rim Trail and the rugged beauty of sandstone outcrops along the 1-mile paved Lower Gorge Trail. Naturalists will be stationed along the trails to answer questions about the preserve’s geology, flora, and fauna. Educational exhibits and, depending on the weather, historical reenactors portraying Ohio frontier life from the 1790s will also be present.
On Saturday, visitors can easily access a shortcut from the Rim Trail to join the activities at the Hocking State Forest.
Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve is located at 24858 Big Pine Road in Rockbridge, Ohio, with parking available on-site. Facilities include portable restrooms and a picnic area. To protect the unique habitats of the preserve, pets are not allowed beyond the parking lot.
For more information about these fall events and additional ODNR activities, visit the ODNR Events Calendar.
