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Hocking Hills Scenic Byway
Corridor Management Plan
June, 2015
Hocking Hills Scenic Byway
Corridor Management Plan
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction…………………………………………………………………………………………. 3
Intrinsic Qualities………………………………………………………………………………… 4
Byway Route ………………………………………………………………………………………. 6
Byway History ……………………………………………………………………………………. 13
Byway Vision………………………………………………………………………………………. 14
Byway Mission……………………………………………………………………………………. 14
Byway Goals and Objectives……………………………………………………………… 14
Byway Organization…………………………………………………………………………… 17
Current Corridor Condition………………………………………………………………… 19
Visitor Experience………………………………………………………………………………. 21
Marketing and Promotion…………………………………………………………………… 23
Appendix…………………………………………………………………………………………….. 25
Attachments
2
Hocking Hills Scenic Byway
Introduction:
The Hocking Hills Scenic Byway takes travelers deep into the historic hills of
southeast Ohio. The Byway traverses hills and valleys and past the six non-
contiguous sites of the Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio’s natural crown jewels.
The Byway also passed historically significant sights and businesses. The
scenery all along the Byway is stunning in every season.
Begin on State Route 374 at US 33 in Rockbridge. State Route 374 was
designed to connect the Hocking Hills State Park sites; Cantwell Cliffs, Rock
House, Conkle’s Hollow, Old Man’s Cave, Cedar Falls and Ash Cave, from
north to south.
The Hocking State Forest Headquarters was the Hocking County Honor Camp
in the 1930’s to house prisoners who were not a flight risk. These men
planted trees, fought forest fires and helped take care of the parks. A guard
went with them wherever they went. It was not necessarily economical but
it gave prisoners time in the outdoors and an opportunity to learn new skills.
The remains of the Black Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp can still be
seen just past the entrance to the Hocking State Forest. These men planted
trees, created trails and built some of the structures found in the parks.
At mile 11.9 on the Byway is the Village of Mound Crossing. The mound
located in the backyard of the old farmhouse was built by the Hopewell
Indians before the birth of Christ.
One of the first cabin businesses in the Hocking Hills is located at mile 13.2.
Now called Nestle Inn, it was originally known as Little Denmark. Another
long time Hocking Hills lodging establishment is located at mile 23.3. The
Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls has grown by leaps and bounds from its humble log
cabin beginnings.
The Hocking Hills State Park offers Naturalist guided hikes and activities
throughout the year at all the park sites. All sites offer various length hiking
trails. Ash Cave and Conkle’s Hollow have handicap accessible trails. Along
the trails hikers are treated to sparkling waterfalls, pre-historic caves and
breathtaking scenic vistas.
Whether looking for a lovely country drive while visiting the Hocking Hills or
a more active experience the Hocking Hills Scenic Byway will exceed your
expectations. 3
Intrinsic Qualities
The primary and secondary intrinsic qualities of the Hocking Hills Scenic
Byway are Natural and Recreational.
Natural
The six non-contiguous sites of the Hocking Hills State Park; Cantwell Cliffs,
Rock House, Conkle’s Hollow Nature Preserve, Old Man’s Cave, Cedar Falls
and Ash Cave all are located along the byway. The byway also traverses the
Hocking Hills State Forest. Privately owned natural preserve, Crane Hollow,
does not allow regular public access however offers guided tours on select
dates. Hocking Hills Adventure Trek offers guided hikes to lesser visited
areas of Hocking State Forest.
Recreational
The Hocking Hills Scenic Byway connects a plethora of recreational activities
– hiking, horseback riding, rock climbing, rappelling, canoeing/kayaking,
camping, bird watching, hunting, fishing, photography, mountain biking,
archery and cruising.
Hiking – The Hills are home to one of the most elaborate trail systems in
Ohio. Outdoor enthusiasts from around the world hike through the gorges,
past waterfalls, flora unique to the Hocking Hills and abundant wildlife. Each
of the non-contiguous sites within the Hocking Hills State Park has marked
hiking trails. A continuous trail from Old Man’s Cave to Ash Cave is called
the Grandma Gatewood Trail and is part of the Buckeye Trail system.
Hocking Hills Adventure Trek also offers guided hikes to lesser known areas
of the Hocking State Forest.
Horseback Riding – Approximately forty miles of trails through the Hocking
State Forest are designated as bridle trails. From the Hocking State Forest’s
Horseman’s Camp trails guide riders through the surrounding woodlands.
Privately owned liveries are also available for those who do not own their
own mount.
Rock Climbing/Rappelling – The Hocking Hills State Forest Rock Climbing
and Rappelling parking area is located off Big Pine Road approximately 2
miles east of State Route 374. Two outfitters offer guided trips for all levels
of climbing/rappelling ability. The area is open to the public.
Canoeing/Kayaking – Rose Lake is accessible by public trail from State
Route 374 and by campers at the Hocking Hills State Park Campground.
Motorized vessels are prohibited making the lake ideal for canoes and
kayaks. 4
Camping – The Hocking Hills State Park Campground located near Old
Man’s Cave provides accommodations for recreational vehicles, camping
trailers and tents. Primitive family camping and primitive group camping is
also available off State Route 374. Cabins are available for rent near the
Hocking Hills Dining Lodge located on State Route 664 S.
Bird watching – The Hocking Valley Birding Trail includes the Hocking Hills
State Park. Throughout the year the park naturalist offers programs
featuring the region’s avian populations with a focus on hawks, owls, eagles
and vultures. Each May birding programs are offered during International
Migratory Bird Weekend throughout the park.
Hunting – More than 40,000 acres of pubic hunting lands are set aside for
hunters in search of deer, wild turkey, squirrel, rabbit and other game. The
hunting areas are outside the boundaries of the state park sites and
preserves to ensure safety for everyone visiting the Hocking Hills.
Fishing – Rose Lake is a 17 acre lake located one half mile from State Route
374. It is stocked with trout, catfish, bass and sunfish. The lake is also
easily accessible to campers from the Hocking Hills State Park Campground.
Professionally guided belly-boat fishing treks at Hocking Hills State Park's
Rose Lake are available with Ohio Belly Boat Fishing, a local natural
adventure outfitter.
Photography – The Hocking Hills is one of the most photographed areas in
the Midwest. Professional photographers offer photography workshops
throughout the year. Every April the Friends of Hocking Hills State Park host
a 24 hour photography competition. The park naturalist offers nature
photography programs. The region attracts photographers from around the
world capturing the Hills in all seasons.
Mountain Biking – One of the newest additions to recreation in Hocking
Hills State Park is mountain biking. Two trails are located off State Route
374. Purple Trail Loop is 2 Miles, rated moderate; Orange Trail Loop is 2
miles, rated difficult.
Archery – Another recent addition to the Hocking Hills State Park recreation
offerings is an archery range located on State Route 664 S. The range is
open to the public. The new archery range features a variety of targets
suitable for all skill levels.
Details of all the intrinsic qualities of the byway are included in Attachment 1
– Hocking Hills Scenic Byway Driving Tour.
5
Hocking Hills Scenic Byway Route
6
Primary & Secondary Intrinsic Qualities Driving Descriptions
The route begins as you turn off US Route 33 onto Rt. 374 near Rockbridge, Ohio. At this
point, you may wish to reset your trip odometer to best follow this narration of the
Hocking Hills Scenic Byway’s points of interest.
Mile 3.7
About 3.3 miles past the Hopewell Mound, you will drive up a hill and see
the sign that announces you are entering the Hocking State Forest area.
The road curves around at the very top where you will notice newly planted
pine to help reforest our hills. You will see the beginning of the giant
hemlocks and tall pine trees. Many of the bigger pines were planted by the
CCC (Civilian Conservation Corp) in the 1930’s.
Mile 6
Cantwell Cliffs State Park
1.9 miles past the CCC Camp Headquarters you will see the Cantwell Cliffs parking lot.
This is the first of the Hocking Hills State Park areas. The park was named for Joshia
Cantwell. Although it is the least visited, many visitors proclaim the Cantwell area as
the most picturesque in Hocking County.
Maps can be found displayed in each of the parks. Visitors are required by law to stay
on the trails for their own safety. Trail laws are strictly enforced. The deep valley,
steep cliffs and rock shelters of Cantwell Cliffs create a beautiful sight regardless of
the season. The erosion caused by Buck Run accounts for the depth of the valley and
the heights of the cliffs. Trails wind up through narrow passageways caused by large
slump blocks that have fallen away from the main cliff.
Mile 13.4
Rock House
The parking lot to Rock House, another area of the Hocking Hills State Park is on the left.
Rock House is the most unique of all the Hocking Hills State Parks because it is a true
cave. It is a tunnel-like corridor situated midway up a 150-foot Blackhand Sandstone cliff.
The "Rock House" is complete with seven Gothic-arched "windows" and great sandstone
columns which bear its massive roof. The Rock House has a ceiling 25 feet high, while the
main corridor is 200 feet long and 20 to 30 feet wide.
7
Mile 18.6
A half mile past the Hocking State Forest Headquarters is Big Pine Road, where Conkle’s
Hollow State Nature Preserve is located (you’ll have to make a turn off the Scenic Byway
to visit Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve. From St. Rt. 374, turn left on Big Pine
Road, and Conkle’s Hollow’s parking area is just a few hundred feet away). This park is a
rugged, rocky gorge, one of the deepest in Ohio. The timeless beauty of the rustic valley
is surrounded by towering 240 foot Blackhand Sandstone cliffs protecting a wilderness of
hemlocks, birch, various trees, shrubs, ferns and wildflowers in this beautiful gorge. The
hollow was named for W.J. Conkle who left his name and the date 1797 carved into the
sandstone on the west wall of the gorge.
Mile 19.7
At the stop sign one mile past Big Pine Road, turn left to follow State Routes 374 & 664
to Old Man’s Cave in the Hocking Hills State Park.
Mile 21
The Hocking Hills Park System Dining Lodge, swimming pool, and rental cabins are at
the end of a mile long scenic driveway. The dining lodge is open for lunch and dinner
year round, breakfast on weekends, limited hours during winter months. There is
meeting and reception space available. The Dining Lodge is a popular location for
wedding receptions and can accommodate large groups. Drive on up and see what’s
on the menu!
The Hocking Hills Artists & Craftsmen Association Co-op Gallery and Market is also
located in the Dining Lodge, open weekends.
Rock House was used by many past visitors as a shelter. You will find hominy holes,
small recesses in the rear wall which served as baking ovens for Native Americans.
Past visitors have chiseled out "troughs" or "holding tanks" in the stone floor of Rock
House. These were used in the melting of pine knots to make turpentine, which was
used by the Indians and pioneers for many things. It is believed that many not-so-
welcome visitors used the Rock House, like robbers and horse thieves, which earned
the cave a reputation of "Robbers Roost".
8
Mile 21.4
Old Man’s Cave
Old Man’s Cave is the hub of the Hocking Hills State Parks. The park gets its
name for Richard Rowe, a hermit who lived in the area in the mid 1800’s and is
reported to have stayed here until his death. In this park, the creek has carved a
magnificent gorge through the entire depth of Blackhand Sandstone. There are
2 sections: the Upper Falls and the Lower Falls. Trails take you down from one
to the other. The vertical cliffs reveal deep recesses, potholes, and cracks that
widen in some places so that massive blocks of rocks have tumbled from the
cliffs. The lush vegetation varies and gives the eye a feast regardless of the
season.
In 2012 State Route 664 was re-routed away from the gorge to protect the
integrity of the cave and provide safer pedestrian access from the parking lot to
the trails leading into the cave. A handicap accessible rim trail around Old
Man’s Cave is partially completed.
Mile 21.8
Archery Range
An outdoor archery range is located immediately north of the state park office
for the public's enjoyment. The new archery range features a variety of
targets suitable for all skill levels.
Mile 22.4
Mountain Bike Trails
Two mountain bike trails, each 2 miles in length, are located off State Route 374.
The purple trail loop is moderate and the orange trail loop is difficult.
Mile 22.9
Rose Lake/Fishermen’s Parking
A parking area and trail access to Rose Lake is located on State Route 374. Rose
Lake is popular for fishing , canoeing, kayaking and wildlife viewing.
Mile 22.2 - Make sure you turn right to continue on State Route 374.
9
Mile 24
Cedar Falls
On the right, you will see the beautiful curved block wall that graces the entry to
Cedar Falls. This park was named because early white settlers mistook the towering
hemlocks for cedar trees. Two deep grooves and numerous potholes have been
created by the action of the stream as it cascades over the face of the Blackhand
Sandstone. At one time a grist mill was located just above these falls.
Across the road from Cedar Falls entry, stop for a look and listen to the crystal clear
stream as it flows down the hill over small boulders and rocks. The shade from the
hemlocks and pines make a very restful scene.
Mile 26 – Turn right on State Route 56 to continue on byway
Mile 26.4
Ash Cave
The Shelter house lies across the road from the entry to Ash Cave. It is just one of
the areas visitors can find for a quiet picnic or resting spot. The ancient Indian trail
from the Pickaway Plains follows through this park and hikers travel part of this old
trail when they walk from the parking lot at Ash Cave.
Most of the caves in our park system are recess caves. Ash Cave is the largest and
most impressive of this type of cave in the state of Ohio. The rim spans 700 feet
around to form a sandstone horseshoe. A misty waterfall plunges 90 feet from the
rim to the valley floor below. Huge mounds of ashes discovered here by early
settlers are thought to be ancient campfires of early Indian inhabitants which gave
this cave its name. The ashes were excavated in 1877 to reveal many Indian artifacts
as well as bones of animals. Ash Cave became an official park in 1925.
Continue along State Route 56, enjoying the rock outcroppings, small waterfalls and creeks alongside the scenic
route. Many miles past Ash Cave and just after Chapel Ridge Road, the Scenic Byway Route continues by turning
right on State Route 664. Eventually you will be back to State Route 374 and will have officially driven the entire
Hocking Hill Scenic Byway. Turn left onto State Route 374 to continue back to US 33 the way you came on the Scenic
Byway Route. Another option (and shorter distance) back to US 33 would be to continue north on State Route 664 to
Logan. Following State Route 664 11 miles past Old Man’s Cave will lead you to the Hocking Hills Regional Welcome.
.Center, located at US 33 and State Route 664.
10
Mile 0.5
Trail to Airplane Rock
Airplane Rock is a natural rock outcropping overlooking Crane Hollow Nature
Preserve. The 1 mile trail to Airplane Rock is located off Big Pine Road marked
by two orange metal posts. Parking is available .5 miles ahead on Big Pine
Road at the Hocking State Forest Rock Climbing/Rappelling area.
Mile 1
Hocking State Forest Rock Climbing & Rappelling Parking area and trail
Nearly a mile of cliff, ranging up to 100 feet, along with numerous slump blocks,
cracks, chimneys, and overhangs provides a variety of challenges to rock climbers
and rappellers.
Local outfitters provide equipment and guide service for all levels of experience.
Big Pine Scenic Loop
Begins at Mile 18.6 of the Hocking Hills Scenic Byway (Conkle’s Hollow), turn
left onto Big Pine Road.
Conkle’s Hollow
Airplane Rock Happy Trails Horseback Rides
The Gallo Shop
Hocking House
Hocking Hills
Gem Mine
11
Mile 0.1
Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve
Mile 1.4
Happy Trails Horseback Rides
Riding stable offering trail rides for all levels of experience. The Hocking State
Forest bridle trails take riders through scenic areas of the region rarely seen by
most visitors. Happy Trails also offers hand-held pony rides for young children.
Packages are available that include canoeing/kayaking tours and lodging.
Mile 6.7
Big Pine Road intersects with State Route 664. Turn right on State Route 664 to continue back to the Hocking
Hills Scenic Byway.
Mile 9.3
Hocking Hills Gem Mine
Located at the KOA Campground, the Hocking Hills Gem Mine is open to the
public and offers a gold mining experience with Placer gold. Rough material
includes gems like sapphire, amethyst, peridot, obsidian, moonstone, emerald,
garnet and more. In larger buckets miners may also find items like fossils, shark
teeth, polished gem stones, geodes, arrowheads or a cut and polished gem
stone ready to be mounted. The mining sluice is open to the public from April
1 to October 31.
Mile 12.5
The Big Pine Scenic Loop rejoins Hocking Hills Scenic Byway at the junction of
State Route 664 and State Route 374.
12
Hocking Hills Scenic Byway History
The Hocking Hills Scenic Byway was established by the Natural Resources Committee of the Hocking Hills Tourism Association. The mission of the Hocking
Hills Tourism Association is to promote growth of responsible tourism through marketing strategies and programs that balance economic growth with the need to preserve the natural and cultural heritage in the Hocking Hills region.
The Committee members were:
Bobbi Bishop, Chairperson Natural Resources Committee Leland Conner, Historian, President Hocking County Historical Society, Logan City
Council Don Davis – OSU Extension Sandy Starner – Historian, Hocking County Genealogical Society
Advisor:
Paul Staley, Section Chief, Office of Travel Information and Scenic Byways Advisory Support:
Greg Green, Roger Hinerman, Gary Starner – Hocking County Commissioners William R. Shaw – PE, PS Hocking County Engineer
Bob Burris, Audie Wykle – Hocking County Planning Commission Jane Cook – Cover design and cover photos
Jim Goslin – Historian Tim Archer – Hocking Hills State Park David L. Glass – Hocking State Forest Manager
Randie Adam – Executive Director, Hocking Hills Tourism Association Tamara Turner – Proofreading
The Natural Resources Committee of the Hocking Hills Tourism Association in 2003 was charged with three strategic goals:
Establish a program to identify needs and support efforts in preserving the natural
resources and beauty of the region which are vital to the continued success and growth of the tourism business.
Establish a program to identify the needs and support the preservation of the region’s historical sites and landmarks.
Establish a program to identify opportunities and support the promotion of cultural activities and events of the region and its people.
The Scenic Byway Program was adopted by the Natural Resources Committee as
one avenue for achieving the above goals. The Hocking Hills Scenic Byway is a program to preserve and protect the natural resources and beauty along this picturesque route while aiding the continued growth of the tourism business.
Tourism is a major industry in Hocking County and contributes heavily to the county economy.
The Hocking Hills Scenic Byway was established in 2004. 13
Hocking Hills Scenic Byway Vision
Vision
The Hocking Hills Scenic Byway deepens an appreciation of the irreplaceable
beauty of the Hocking Hills with travelers ensuring all future generations the
same opportunity to experience the region.
Hocking Hills Scenic Byway Mission
Mission
The mission of the Hocking Hills Scenic Byway is to connect travelers to
nature, the past and the present through sharing and protecting the unique
landscape and stories of the region.
Hocking Hills Scenic Byway Goals & Objectives
Goal 1
Preserve the natural resources and beauty of the Hocking Hills region
Objective/Strategy
Partner with ODOT, ODNR, Friends of Hocking Hills State Park, Hocking County Soil
and Water Conservation, Hocking Hills Conservation Association and Hocking
County Engineer to reference the byway corridor management plan when making
decisions on alterations to the roadway and state park sites along the byway.
Engage representatives from partner agencies and organizations to join the Byway
Committee. Request Department of Forestry to adopt a buffer zone along the
highway when logging. Use the Hocking Hills Visitors Guide to highlight lesser
visited sites in the Hocking Hills State Park for the purpose of alleviating the high
volume of traffic at Old Man’s Cave and Ash Cave. Create a guide to State Nature
Preserves and other parks in the region to better disperse the traffic throughout the
region’s natural areas.
Goal 2
Create diverse community partnerships to expand education and preservation of
historic sites, stories and landmarks.
Objective/Strategy
Partner with Hocking County Historical Society and Townships for current inventory
accuracy. Partner with Ohio History Connection to enhance historical markers along
the byway. Partner with Hocking College and Logan-Hocking School District to
expand historical education. 14
Goal 3
Utilize all available marketing opportunities to promote cultural activities and events
along or near the byway.
Objective/Strategy
Incorporate information about the byway in promotional materials for Shoot the
Hills, Cruise Hocking, Hocking Hills Poker Run, Lilyfest, Hocking House Open House,
Hocking Hills Indian Run, Hocking Hills Music Park, Hocking Hills Artists & Craftsmen
Association Gallery & Market. Promote the byway at all existing events/festivals
along and/or near the byway. Identify opportunities to create additional cultural
activities and events along the byway such as Emma “Grandma” Gatewood Day
April 27.
Goal 4
Create marketing tools and events which appeal to the diverse motorists leisurely
touring the region with a focus on enjoying the beauty of the region while observing
the tenets of motorist safety.
Objective/Strategy
Promote the byway as Car and Driver magazine’s “Midwestern driving roads of
choice.” Distribute the Hocking Hills Driving Tour map through the Regional
Welcome Center and Visitor Center in Laurelville. Highlight the byway on all maps
published by HHTA. Establish a corps of Certified Interpretive Guides (CIG) to
provide custom tours/programs along byway. Create a full color driving guide with
detailed directions, descriptions, identifying landmarks and fold-out map for
distribution through the Hocking Hills Tourism Association Welcome Center and
Visitors Center. The guide will also be downloadable from the Official Hocking Hills
Tourism website; ExploreHockingHills.com. Create a micro site within Hocking Hills
Tourism website to promote the byway. When technology accommodates
recognition of GPS coordinates at all points of interest along the byway develop an
app which will recognize the points of interest by the GPS coordinates and provide
an audio description of the intrinsic qualities/stories.
15
Objectives/Strategies Timeline
Strategy Completion Date Leader Cost Engage partner reps
on Byway Committee
In progress –
invitations are being
sent.
HHTA $0
Logging buffer zone December 2015 FHHSP, HHCA, HHTA $0
Promote less visited
HHSP sites
January 2016 HHTA $0
Create guide to State
Nature Preserves
with public access
completed HHTA $200
Review of current
and potential new
historic sites on
byway
December 2016 HCHS, Byway
Committee
$0
Install historical
markers on byway
July 2018 HCHS, Byway
Committee
$1,000
Expand education
outreach to local
schools
ongoing Byway Committee $0
Provide updated
byway info including
web link to event
coordinators
December 2016 Byway Committee $0
Create and distribute
Driving Tour Map
Creation complete;
distribution ongoing
HHTA $2,500
Establish CIG Corps May 2017 Byway Committee $2,000
Create new Byway
Driving Guide
June 2016 HHTA $6,000
Byway Micro Site August 2015 HHTA $0
GPS Based App December 2019 HHTA $10,000
16
Hocking Hills Scenic Byway Organization
In 2013 the Hocking Hills Tourism Association (HHTA) created the Hocking Hills
Scenic Byway Committee. The Hocking Hills Scenic Byway has, since creation,
existed under the umbrella of the Hocking Hills Tourism Association
Byway Committee:
Bobbi Bishop – Bishop Educational Gardens, Original Byway Committee Chair
Lorraine Carlson – Campground Owner, HHTA Board of Trustees
Shyna Gaywell – Ohio Department of Transportation
Larry Gerstner – Hocking County Trustees Association, HHTA Board of
Trustees
Doug Parker – Co-owner ikarensell Ent., Sorrell & Co. Realtors, President,
HHTA Board of Trustees
Ric Queen – Ohio Environmental Protection Agency
Karen Raymore – HHTA Executive Director, Hocking Hills Conservation
Association
Rick Webb – HHTA Board of Trustees, Hocking County Tree Commission,
Hocking Hills Conservation Association
Public Participation:
The Hocking Hills Scenic Byway Committee was revived in 2013. The Committee
has been meeting since mid-year 2013. In March, 2014 a public meeting was held.
The meeting was announced in the local newspaper and on the local radio station.
Notice of the meeting was sent to all elected officials. Two private citizens, one
elected official and five byway committee members were present. The byway
committee will be attending township meetings to discuss potential extensions of
the byway and will present this updated CMP to the County Commissioners and
applicable townships over the course of 2015.
The Scenic Byways Committee will provide a report at all HHTA Board of Trustees
meetings beginning July 2015. The HHTA Board meetings are published in the local
newspaper, open to the public and attended by a reporter from the local paper.
The Scenic Byway Committee activity will also be included in the quarterly report to
the Hocking County Commissioners at a published, open meeting.
Current Stakeholders:
ODNR
ODOT
Hocking County
Benton Township
Good Hope Township
Laurel Township
Businesses and residents on the byway
17
Primary Contact:
Karen Raymore
Hocking Hills Tourism Association
740-385-2750
Secondary Contact:
Doug Parker
ikarensell Ent., Sorrell & Co. Realtors
740-569-3616
Coordination with State Byway Program:
The Annual Survey for Scenic Byways was completed in 2014 and 2015. It will be
completed every year. Photos have been provided for the Ohio Byways website.
The Hocking Hills Tourism Association website, ExploreHockingHills.com, links to
the Ohio Byways website. The Hocking Hills Scenic Byway Corridor Management
Plan will be updated every five years.
The Hocking Hills Scenic Byway is a member of Ohio Byway Links Association and
attended the OBL Annual Conference in 2014. Karen Raymore is a member of the
Ohio Scenic Byways Advisory Committee.
Leadership of the Hocking Hills Scenic Byway will be part of the Hocking Hills
Tourism Association Executive Director’s duties. Currently that position is held by
Karen Raymore. Future HHTA Executive Directors will assume this duty.
Funding needs:
Marketing of the byway is funded by the Hocking Hills Tourism Association. This
includes but is not limited to maps, visitor guides, signs, interpreter training, public
relations and advertisements. Future funding needs will include developing a smart
phone app and additional historical signage along the byway. These costs will also
be part of the HHTA marketing budget. As available, grant funds will also be
sought to assist in funding the objectives/strategies in this CMP.
18
Hocking Hills Scenic Byway Corridor Conditions & Maintenance
Maintenance:
The Hocking Hills Scenic Byway connects the six non-contiguous sites of the
Hocking Hills State Park which is Ohio’s most visited state park with more than 3
million people coming to the park each year. The byway is traveled by millions as
they explore the Hocking Hills region. With the exception of the newly added Big
Pine Scenic Loop, the Hocking Hills Scenic Byway is all state maintained road way.
Big Pine Road is maintained by Hocking County and is considered a primary road for
maintenance as it is the primary feeder road to several township roads where
vacation rentals and homes are located. The publically owned recreational sites
along the byway are maintained by ODNR.
In 2012 ODOT moved State Route 664 S to reduce impact on Old Man’s Cave and
improve safety for visitors. Prior to the improvement, State Route 664 S was
situated between the cave and the parking lot. The integrity of the cave structure
was threatened by the weight and volume of traffic on the road. There were also
concerns about pedestrian safety as visitors to the cave had to cross the
increasingly busy road to get to the trail heads. The new roadway has solved both
problems.
Primary Intrinsic Qualities:
Hocking State Forest
Cantwell Cliffs
Rock House
Conkle’s Hollow
Old Man’s Cave
Cedar Falls
Ash Cave
Secondary Intrinsic Qualities:
Archery Range
Rose Lake
Mountain Bike Trails
Hocking Hills State Park Dining Lodge
Hocking State Forest Rock Climbing & Rappelling Area
Happy Trails Horseback Rides
See pages 7 – 12 for detailed descriptions of primary and secondary intrinsic
qualities. See Attachment 1 for detailed driving tour of all intrinsic qualities of the
byway.
There have been no significant changes to the intrinsic qualities/resources along the
byway. There has been an increase in travelers along the byway since its inception
in 2004 due to an increase in visitors to the Hocking Hills.
19
Access to the sites along the byway has remained consistent as the primary
intrinsic qualities are state owned and managed. There have been no new pull-offs,
parking or rest areas added. The Visitor Center at Old Man’s Cave was renovated in
2012. Rest rooms at Old Man’s Cave and Ash Cave will be renovated as part of the
ODNR $8.3 million capital improvement plan for Hocking Hills State Park.
An archery range and two mountain bike trails have been added to the Hocking
Hills State Park with access from the byway.
The gorge trail at Conkle’s Hollow and the Ash Cave trail are both handicap
accessible. There is a partial trail on the rim of Old Man’s Cave which is also
handicap accessible. These trails not only accommodate wheelchairs but are also
frequently used by families with strollers.
20
Hocking Hills Scenic Byway Visitor Experience
The Byway Story:
The Hocking Hills Scenic Byway leads travelers through some of the most scenic
regions of the Hocking Hills. Beginning at US Highway 33 and State Route 374 the
byway winds through the Hocking State Forest, past prehistoric Native American
mounds and links all six non-contiguous sites of the Hocking Hills State Park.
Along the byway travelers will find sites of historic significance such as the remains
of the Black CCC Camp and small family cemeteries. There is evidence of the
millions of years of natural history all along the byway. This history spans the
Mississippian Geologic Period from 330 million years ago to the modern day tourism
industry which has grown up around these natural wonders.
Travelers have several sites along the byway for a variety of recreational activities.
Hiking is the most popular activity with well-marked and maintained trails in each
of the Hocking Hills State Park sites. Additional recreation includes fishing, hunting,
canoeing, kayaking, horseback riding, archery, swimming, mountain biking, rock
climbing and rappelling.
The byway takes on a new personality with each season. Winter covers the hills,
gorges and rock outcroppings with a blanket of snow. Waterfalls are suspended in
frozen animation as a surreal serenity encompasses the region. Spring brings
wildflowers, migratory birds and a million shades of green across the landscape.
Summer vacationers fill the cabins, campsites and parks enjoying the warm
weather. In autumn the Hills become a canvas for Mother Nature’s brightest colors
and the byway becomes a fall foliage spectacle.
Lodging, dining and shopping are also all available for travelers’ pleasure along the
byway. From cozy cabins to luxury inns and lodges there are accommodations for
all tastes. Fine dining, casual buffets and all American burger joints can be enjoyed
along the byway. Artist studios, gift shops and convenience stores offer everything
from one-of-a-kind souvenirs to camping supplies.
A detailed guide to the Hocking Hills Scenic Byway is available online at
www.hhscenicbyway.com.
Preservation:
ODNR invests heavily in the preservation of the lands the byway traverses. In
2013 the Hocking Hills Tourism Association gathered a group together to evaluate
the approaching threat to the Hemlock trees in the region by the invasive Woolly
Adelgid. This meeting resulted in the creation of the Hocking Hills Conservation
Association (HHCA).
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The purpose of the Hocking Hills Conservation Association is conservation,
preservation and education. All funds held by the Association shall be used for the
purpose of ensuring the ongoing viability of natural resources owned by the public
and/or not for profit organizations operating according to section 501(c)3 of the
Internal Revenue Code.
The HHCA has representation from ODNR, Ohio Department of Agriculture, Hocking
County Soil & Water Conservation, Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio Certified
Volunteer Naturalists, OSU Extension and Hocking Hills Tourism Association. The
group meets quarterly. The current focus is the HWA (Hemlock Wooly Adelgid)
issue. The insect was found at Cantwell Cliffs in 2013 and hemlock trees in the
park were treated. Inspection and inventory efforts continue and educational
workshops for private land owners have been held in fall of ’13 and ’14.
The Hocking Hills Tourism Association works with the Friends of Hocking Hills State
Park to preserve and support the Hocking Hills State Park facilities and programs.
Funds from the annual Hocking Hills Indian Run have been contributed for the
purchase of equipment, improvements to recreational facilities and supplies needed
for naturalist programming. HHTA also provides all the refreshments served at
special event hikes; Christmas at Ash Cave, Sweethearts Hike, Grandma Gatewood
Fall Color Hike. The Associations are committed to sustaining the natural and built
intrinsic qualities, many of which are located on the byway.
Sign Inventory:
ODOT byway signs are located at the junctions of State Route 374 and US 33, State
Routes 180 and 374, State Routes 374 and 664, State Routes 374 and 56 and
State Routes 56 and 664. All signs are in good condition. There are no additional
local scenic byway signs. There are interpretive signs located at each of the six
non-contiguous state park sites. These signs have information about the site, not
the byway.
ODOT byway signs are needed at the junctions of State Route 374 and Big Pine
Road and Big Pine Road and State Route 664. Interpretive signs (Ohio Historical
Markers) should be installed at mile 4.1 – the Black CCC Camp and mile 11.9 – the
Grange Hall.
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Hocking Hills Scenic Byway Marketing
The Hocking Hills Scenic Byway is marketed by the Hocking Hills
Tourism Association. The cost of marketing the byway is part of
the overall Hocking Hills marketing budget, funded by the Hocking
Hills Tourism Association. The byway is promoted in the annual
Official Hocking Hills Visitors Guide (230,000 copies distributed
throughout the U.S. and Canada). The byway is featured in
editorial copy and on the county map. A digital version of the
Official Hocking Hills Visitors Guide is also available at
ExploreHockingHills.com.
In 2013 Car and Driver magazine highlighted the byway in
the feature article, “2014 Aston Martin vs. The Hocking
Hills” (published in the June 2013 issue). Car and Driver
magazine named the Hocking Hills their “Midwestern
driving roads of choice”. The map featured in the article
as the “Car and Driver Loop” included a significant portion
of the Hocking Hills Scenic Byway.
In 2014 Car and Driver and Road & Track magazines
featured articles about the Hocking Hills driving
experience. This prompted the Hocking Hills Tourism
Association to publish the Hocking Hills Driving Tour Map
which promotes the Hocking Hills Scenic Byway as the
primary of three recommended cruising routes.
The Hocking Hills Arts & Ag Map was introduced in
2011. The map identifies art events, galleries, farm
markets, agriculture attractions and antique shops.
The Hocking Hills Scenic Byway is highlighted on the
map. As of April, 2015 approximately 10,000 maps
have been distributed.
A group of local classic car enthusiasts partnered with the
Friends of Hocking Hills State Park to host a cruise in. In
May, 2015 the inaugural Hocking Hills Cruise In was held.
The Cruise In weekend featured six routes. Five of the six
routes included portions of the Hocking Hills Scenic Byway.
Another Cruise In is being planned for fall. The Friends of the
Hocking Hills State Park also host a Poker Run each year.
Past Poker Runs have attracted more than 100 motorcyclists
to the roads in the Hills including the Hocking Hills Scenic
Byway.
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Future Marketing Tools:
In 2016 a full color byway guide will be printed and distributed at the Hocking Hills
Regional Welcome Center in Logan and the Hocking Hills Visitor Center in
Laurelville. It will also be available online as a downloadable document or by
delivery via USPS.
The Byway Committee is also researching the feasibility of a GPS driven smart
phone app. When a driver approaches one of the intrinsic qualities along the byway
an automatic audio guide will begin to tell the story of the site including instructions
on pull off availability and access information. The primary obstacle to this
marketing tool is lack of full cell phone service coverage in the region. It is
improving each year and the Committee will continue to monitor coverage.
A new micro site within the Hocking Hills Tourism website is being built with the
URL, hhscenicbyway.com. This site will provide byway resources, links to other
scenic byways in the region and the ODOT Scenic Byways website.
See page 16 for Objectives/Strategies Timeline Table.
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Hocking Hills Scenic Byway CMP
Appendix
Photos:
Page 6 (top to bottom)
1) Byway sign at SR 374 & US 33 junction
2) Byway sign at SR 374 & 664 junction
3) Byway sign at SR 56 & 664 junction
4) Byway and directional signs at SR 664 & 374 junction
Page 7 (top to bottom)
1) Byway sign at SR 374 & US 33 junction – beginning of Byway
2) Entering Hocking State Forest sign
3) Cantwell Cliffs sign
4) Cantwell Cliffs trail
5) Rock House sign
Page 8 (top to bottom)
1) Rock House trail
2) Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve sign
3) Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve rim trail
4) Byway sign at SR 374 & 664 junction
5) Hocking Hills State Park Dining Lodge sign
Page 9 (top to bottom)
1) Old Man’s Cave sign
2) Old Man’s Cave Upper Falls trail
3) Hocking Hills State Park Archery Range sign
4) Hocking Hills State Park Mountain Bike Trail Head sign
5) Rose Lake Fisherman Parking sign
Page 10 (top to bottom)
1) Cedar Falls sign
2) Cedar Falls trail
3) Ash Cave sign
4) Ash Cave trail
Page 11 (top to bottom)
1) Conkle’s Hollow gorge trail
2) Airplane Rock trail markers on Big Pine Road
3) Airplane Rock
4) Hocking State Forest Rock Climbing and Rappelling Area sign
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Page 12 (top to bottom)
1) Happy Trails Horseback Rides sign
2) Hocking Hills Gem Mine
3) Byway sign at SR 664 & 374 junction
Page 23 (top to bottom)
1) Official Hocking Hills Visitors Guide
2) Hocking Hills Arts & Ag Map
3) Car and Driver Loop
4) Hocking Hills Driving Tour Map
5) CruiseHocking logo
Maps:
Page 6 – Hocking Hills Scenic Byway Map
Page 11 – Big Pine Loop Map
Attachment 1
Hocking Hills Scenic Byway Driving Guide. This is the document available to
travelers at the Hocking Hills Regional Welcome Center and
ExploreHockingHills.com.
Attachment 2
Examples of the maps currently highlighting the byway.
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