Planning a trip to Hocking Hills, Ohio, and wondering if your dog can come along? The answer is a resounding yes! Hocking Hills is one of the most dog-friendly destinations in Ohio, with scenic trails, welcoming patios, and plenty of wide-open spaces for your four-legged travel companion to explore.
This guide is your complete resource for visiting Hocking Hills with your dog. We’ve pulled together everything you need to know, including the best pet-friendly hiking trails, outdoor dining patios, local wineries, and a few helpful tips to make the trip smooth and enjoyable for both of you.
Dog-Friendly Parks and Hiking Trails in Hocking Hills
Hocking Hills State Park is a dream destination for hiking dogs, and their people. Leashed dogs are welcome on most trails throughout the park, giving you and your pup access to some of the most stunning natural scenery in Ohio.
One important note before you go: dogs are not permitted on the Conkle’s Hollow Rim Trail, as it runs through a state nature preserve. Plan around that one, and you’ll have plenty of beautiful options to choose from.
Here are the top dog-friendly trails to put on your list:
1. Old Man’s Cave
The most iconic spot in Hocking Hills is a great choice for dogs who love water. The trail winds through a scenic gorge with streams and two waterfalls along the way. It’s a bit more rugged in sections, so it’s best suited for dogs with good energy and sure footing.
🐾 Best for: Active dogs and hikers who want the full Hocking Hills experience.
2. Ash Cave
A paved, easy trail that leads to the largest recess cave in Ohio. At just half a mile each way, this is a wonderful option for older dogs or pups new to trail life.
🐾 Best for: Families, senior dogs, and first-time visitors.
3. Cedar Falls
A moderate hike with a stunning 50-foot waterfall as the reward. There are steps involved, so keep that in mind for dogs who may find staircases challenging. Some stairways also have anti-slip steel grating that can feel unfamiliar underfoot for some dogs.
🐾 Best for: Dogs who are comfortable on varied terrain.
4. Rock House
One of the park’s more unique hikes features a tunnel-like cave carved into the sandstone cliffs. Less crowded than some of the other trails, which makes it a nice pick for dogs who do better with fewer people around.
🐾 Best for: Curious explorers looking for something a little different.
5. Cantwell Cliffs
A quieter, more peaceful trail with dramatic cliff views and lots of breathing room. If your dog gets anxious around large crowds, this one is worth prioritizing.
🐾 Best for: Dogs who prefer a calmer, less busy trail experience.
6. Whispering Cave and Hemlock Bridge
A beautiful and scenic trail that tends to draw fewer visitors than Old Man’s Cave or Ash Cave. The hemlock-lined path makes for a shaded, peaceful walk on warm days.
🐾 Best for: Dogs and owners looking for a quieter hike with gorgeous scenery.
7. Clear Creek Metro Park
A wonderful alternative to the state park trails, with a different landscape and a more relaxed atmosphere. Note that only certain sections of the park are designated as pet-friendly, so check the trail map before heading out. Great for mixing up the itinerary on a longer trip.
🐾 Best for: Guests staying multiple days who want variety in their hiking routine.
Beyond the State Park
If you’re staying a few days and want to mix up the scenery, these two spots are well worth adding to your itinerary:
8. Lake Logan State Park
Easy walking trails and wide-open spaces make this a relaxed and enjoyable outing for dogs of all ages and energy levels. It’s a great change of pace from the more rugged terrain of the state park.
🐾 Best for: Dogs who love open spaces and a more leisurely walk.
9. Wayne National Forest
A quieter, more remote hiking experience with miles of trails and far fewer crowds than the main Hocking Hills attractions. Ideal for dogs who thrive when they have the trail mostly to themselves.
🐾 Best for: Owners looking for a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path adventure with their pup.
A few trail tips to keep in mind:
- Dogs must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet at all times.
- Bring fresh water and a collapsible bowl — dogs get thirsty faster than you think on the trail.
- Pack a towel for muddy paws, especially after Cedar Falls or Old Man’s Cave.
- Ticks are common in wooded and grassy areas — flea and tick prevention before your trip is a must.
- Never leave your dog in a parked car between stops, even with windows cracked.
- Wildlife is common throughout the area, so keep your dog close and leashed even off the trail.
Dog-Friendly Restaurants and Patios in Hocking Hills
After a morning on the trails, the good news is that you don’t have to leave your pup behind when it’s time to eat. Several restaurants in and around Logan, Ohio, welcome leashed dogs on their patios, making it easy to refuel without cutting the adventure short.
Here are some great spots to check out:
1. Millstone Southern Smoked BBQ
A local favorite for good reason. Millstone offers dog-friendly outdoor seating alongside some of the best BBQ in the area. A perfect post-hike stop.
🐾 Best for: BBQ lovers looking for a laid-back, dog-welcoming meal outdoors.
2. 58 West
A casual spot with a large patio and a relaxed vibe. Great for groups and easy to settle into after a full day of exploring.
🐾 Best for: Groups and couples wanting a comfortable outdoor dining experience.
3. Maya Burrito Co.
A fun and casual option with patio seating that welcomes four-legged guests. Perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch between activities.
🐾 Best for: A casual, laid-back bite with your pup by your side.
4. Shamrock Irish Pub
A charming local pub with outdoor seating where dogs are welcome. Great atmosphere for unwinding at the end of the day.
🐾 Best for: Those looking for a relaxed evening out with pub-style food and good company.
5. Urban Grille Pub
Another solid option with outdoor seating available for guests with dogs. A comfortable spot for a casual meal without having to worry about where your pup will go.
🐾 Best for: Easy, no-fuss outdoor dining after a day on the trails.
6. Oasis Coffee Shop
A wonderful morning stop before hitting the trails. Enjoy your coffee on the patio with your dog by your side and start the day on a relaxed note.
🐾 Best for: Early risers looking for a cozy coffee stop before a day of adventure.
7. Hocking Hills Coffee Emporium
Another great coffee option for dog owners who need their morning cup before heading out. A welcoming spot to ease into the day.
🐾 Best for: Coffee lovers who want a dog-friendly start to their morning.
As a general rule, we always recommend calling ahead to confirm current pet policies before you visit. Patio availability can vary by season, and policies can occasionally change.
Dog-Friendly Wineries and Breweries in Hocking Hills
Hocking Hills has a surprisingly vibrant wine and craft beer scene, and the best part is that many of the local spots welcome your dog on their patios.
After a day of hiking and exploring, there’s nothing quite like settling in with a cold brew or a glass of local wine while your pup relaxes at your feet.
Here are the dog-friendly wineries, breweries, and distilleries worth visiting:
1. Hocking Hills Winery
A Hocking Hills staple with a beautiful patio and frequent live music. One of the most popular spots in the area and a great place to spend a relaxed afternoon or evening with your dog.
🐾 Best for: Wine lovers looking for a scenic and lively outdoor experience.
2. Brewery 33
Known for being one of the most dog-welcoming spots in the area. Brewery 33 offers a great selection of craft beers in a fun, laid-back setting.
🐾 Best for: Craft beer fans who want a casual, dog-friendly hangout.
3. Double Edge Brewing Co.
A great local brewery with a patio that welcomes dogs. A solid stop for craft beer enthusiasts looking to sample something local.
🐾 Best for: Those who enjoy exploring the local craft beer scene.
4. Little Fish Brewing Co.
Another excellent brewing option with outdoor space for guests and their dogs. Little Fish is well-regarded in the Ohio craft beer community.
🐾 Best for: Beer lovers looking for a quality local brew in a welcoming atmosphere.
5. Motherwell Distilling Co.
A unique option for those who prefer spirits over wine or beer. Motherwell offers a distinct experience and a dog-friendly outdoor area.
🐾 Best for: Guests looking for something a little different from the usual winery or brewery visit.
6. Le Petit Chevalier Vineyards and Farm Winery
A charming farm winery with a relaxed, countryside atmosphere. A lovely spot to slow down and enjoy a glass of wine with your dog in a peaceful setting.
🐾 Best for: Wine lovers looking for a quiet, off-the-beaten-path experience.
7. Manchester Hill Winery
A welcoming winery with outdoor space where dogs are permitted. A great addition to a winery-hopping afternoon in the Hocking Hills area.
🐾 Best for: Those building a leisurely winery tour into their trip.
8. Rockside Winery and Vineyard
A scenic vineyard setting with a dog-friendly patio. A beautiful spot to enjoy a glass of wine surrounded by rolling hills and open countryside.
🐾 Best for: Wine lovers who appreciate a beautiful outdoor setting.
9. Revolution Rockbridge Wine Co.
A newer addition to the Hocking Hills wine scene, with a welcoming atmosphere and outdoor space for guests with pets.
🐾 Best for: Wine enthusiasts looking to discover something new in the area.
As always, we recommend calling ahead to confirm patio availability and current pet policies before your visit, as these can vary by season.
Tips for Visiting Hocking Hills With Your Dog
A little preparation goes a long way when you’re traveling with a dog. Here are some practical things to keep in mind before and during your Hocking Hills trip.
Save This Number Before You Go
We hope you won’t need it, but it’s always smart to have your nearest emergency vet saved in your phone before you leave home. The closest option to Hocking Hills is:
📍 Hocking Hills Animal Clinic 1978 E Front St, Logan, OH 43138 📞 (740) 380-7387
Explore Downtown Logan With Your Pup
The sidewalks of downtown Logan, Ohio, are dog-friendly, and many local shops welcome well-behaved leashed dogs inside. It’s a great way to spend a relaxed afternoon browsing local boutiques, gift shops, and specialty stores with your four-legged travel companion in tow.
Keep an Eye Out for Wildlife
Hocking Hills is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, raccoons, and wild turkeys. Keep your dog leashed at all times, even in areas outside of the designated trails. A sudden encounter with a wild animal can be startling for even the most well-behaved dog.
Tick Prevention Is a Must
The wooded and grassy areas throughout Hocking Hills are prime tick territory, especially in warmer months. Make sure your dog is up to date on flea and tick prevention before your trip, and do a quick check after every hike.
Consider Visiting Midweek
Hocking Hills is a popular destination, especially on weekends. A midweek visit means quieter trails, more breathing room on the patios, and a more relaxed overall experience for you and your dog. It can also mean more availability and better rates on cabin rentals.
Stay at Notestone Cabin — We Welcome Your Dog!
Now that you have the full guide, all you need is a great place to come home to at the end of the day. We are thrilled to announce that Notestone Cabin is now officially pet-friendly, and we would love to host you and your four-legged family member!
Nestled in the wooded hills of Logan, Ohio, Notestone Cabin is a secluded and cozy retreat that feels tailor-made for a dog-friendly getaway. Your pup will love the surrounding woods and fresh air, and you’ll love having a comfortable, well-appointed cabin to return to after a day of hiking and exploring.
Here is what we provide for your dog:
- ✔️ Towels for wiping muddy paws after the trails
- ✔️ Waste bags for yard clean-up
- ✔️ A protective blanket for the furniture
- ✔️ A medium-sized dog crate if needed
A few things to keep in mind:
- ✔️ A pet fee of $125 per dog per stay will be added to your reservation
- ✔️ Please notify us in advance if you plan to bring a dog so we can prepare for your arrival
- ✔️ Dogs should not be left unattended in the cabin — the crate is available if you need to step out
- ✔️ We strongly recommend dogs be up to date on flea and tick prevention, given our wooded location
Please note that Woodland Lodge is not pet-friendly at this time. Notestone Cabin is your go-to for a dog-welcoming stay at The Woodlands.
We put a lot of thought into making Notestone Cabin a place where your whole family — dogs included — can feel right at home. We can’t wait to welcome you.
Check availability and book your stay at Notestone Cabin today!👉Book Notestone Cabin