Explore the twists and turns of the Hocking River while on a getaway to the Hocking Hills inn Southern Ohio. Canoeing past the majestic pines and jutting rock formations of the Hocking River is a low-cost way to enjoy an afternoon in the great outdoors. The Hocking Hills Canoe Livery is the sole rental outfitter within 20 miles of Hocking Hills State Park. Give your legs a rest after hiking Old Man's Cave and canoe along the river.
Waterway Trails
Paddle down the Hocking River and experience the sights and sounds of Appalachia. Along your route you will encounter several sandbars and "islands" which are perfect for picnics and keepsake photo opportunities. Two waterway trails exist along the Hocking River, and are open for use from March through the end of October. Crockett's Waterway Trail is a five-mile float which takes approximately one and a half hours to complete. This route was designed with novice paddlers and families with young children in mind. Rockbridge Waterway Trail encompasses seven miles and takes nearly three hours to complete.
Attractions and Launch Areas
If you feel like exploring the local landscape, pull the canoe ashore and hike to the Natural Rockbridge Scenic Area. Visitors to the area who bring their own canoe can "put in" at any public area along the Hocking River. The Hocking Hills Travel Guide features a map denoting public canoe launch areas. Life jackets are provided at the livery before embarking on a Hocking River excursion.
Livery Services and Rules
Children must be at least three years old in order to be included in a canoe, kayak or rafting experience. The livery staff transports you upstream to begin your journey on either trail. Both trails wind back to the livery station and parking lot areas. Fishing is permitted anywhere along the Hocking River with a valid Ohio fishing license. A license can be purchased at the canoe livery. Wenonah and Old Town 158 canoes, each with two molded seats can be rented for either the day or the weekend at the livery. The livery store offers paddling gear, souvenir items and firewood.
Daytime Events
A watery cruise down the Hocking River not enough excitement for you? Plan a visit from May through September and partake in the organized outings, special events and moonlight tours of the Hocking River. Annual events include the "Birding Canoe Float" which celebrates the international migratory bird weekend in the Hocking Hills. A naturalist shares insights and bird watching tips with river visitors. A "Ladies Evening Float" includes a female-only trip on Lake Logan, paddling lessons and refreshments. Hocking River Fest and Canoe Race is held during early September annually and includes children's activities, refreshments and nature exhibits.
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Evening Events
The Moonlight Tours series allows the opportunity to explore the river at night by lamplight and concludes with a bonfire, live bluegrass music and tasty s'mores. Evening tours occur on select Saturday evenings during the summer months. Family movie nights offer the chance to watch a flick under the starts at the canoe livery. This free events occur on Friday evenings.
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