The holidays bring a quiet kind of magic to the Hocking Hills. Frost dusts the sandstone cliffs, hemlocks line the trails, the whole region around Logan, Ohio, sparkles with lights. Whether you’re planning a winter getaway or a cozy weekend in a cabin, this region is full of small-town charm, scenic wonder, and festive traditions.
Here are six ways to enjoy the holiday season in the Hocking Hills.
1. Catch the Logan Christmas Parade - December 6th, 2025
Downtown Logan’s annual Christmas Parade sets the tone for the season. Local schools, bands, and community groups join in as Santa makes his big entrance down Main Street. Stop for a hot drink at one of the cafés, browse the shops for handmade gifts, and enjoy the friendly, small-town energy that makes this event a local favorite.
2. Visit the Santa House in Worthington Park - December 6th through December 22nd, 2025, 6pm-8pm
On weekends in December, families head to Worthington Park to see the Santa House twinkling with lights. Kids can share their wish lists while adults take in the decorations and the laid-back holiday atmosphere. It’s the kind of simple tradition that makes the holidays in the Hocking Hills feel welcoming and personal.
3. Experience Christmas in Ash Cave - December 13th, 2025
Few places capture the season’s spirit quite like Ash Cave during the Christmas in Ash Cave celebration. Visitors walk a lantern-lit trail to the cave, where carolers sing beside a roaring fire and Santa greets guests. With warm drinks and the echo of music in the sandstone, it’s one of the most unforgettable holiday moments in the region.
4. Ride the Santa Train Through the Hills - Through December 21st, 2025
Take a nostalgic ride on the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway’s Santa Train in nearby Nelsonville, Ohio. The vintage cars are trimmed with garland and lights, and Santa makes his rounds as the train winds through the hills. It’s a perfect mix of history, scenery, and old-fashioned holiday fun.
5. Browse Local Holiday Markets
The Logan area hosts several winter craft and holiday markets throughout the season. Local artisans sell pottery, ornaments, soaps, and sweet treats—great finds for thoughtful, locally made gifts. These markets showcase the creative heart of the region and make for an enjoyable day out before returning to your cabin.
6. Explore the Trails in Winter
The Hocking Hills’ famous trails, including Old Man’s Cave, Cedar Falls, and Conkle’s Hollow, remain open all year. Winter hiking brings a different kind of beauty, quiet paths, crisp air, and frozen waterfalls that sparkle in the sun. It’s one of the best times to experience the natural side of the region without the crowds.
A Peaceful Place to Stay - Look for Holiday Specials in the month of December at Cherry Ridge Retreat
After a day of exploring, you’ll want a peaceful place to relax and warm up. A luxury cabin stay offers privacy, comfort, excellent amenities, and easy access to all the region’s attractions. Many visitors choose Cherry Ridge Retreat as their home base, its location within the Hocking Hills makes it convenient for both holiday events and time spent in nature. With private hot tubs, fireplaces, and forest views, it’s the perfect balance between adventure and quiet comfort.
Choose from 8 meticulously kept cabins, each with its own character, situated on 140 acres of private woodland, replete with extensive trails for hiking, and endless opportunities to enjoy what the season has to offer.
