Hocking Hills (OH) trail run is September 20

Over five decades, the annual Hocking Hills Trail Run has taken runners along some of the nation’s most beautiful trails, past stunning waterfalls, caves and soaring cliffs and rock formations. In years past, the course included some road miles, but this year’s run features all new courses with nearly all trail running and minimal roadside sections, providing added safety, beauty and challenges.

The 47th annual Hocking Hills Trail Run is slated for September 20, 2025 with signups at ExploreHockingHills.com at $25 for the 5K run, $35 for the 10K, and $45 for 20K, 40K and 60K routes, with day-of signup offered for an additional $10. Day-of registration for all runners takes place at the Naturalist Cabin near the Old Man’s Cave trailhead in Hocking Hills State Park. Each participant receives a medallion hand crafted by local high school art students and a t-shirt (no guarantee of preferred t-shirt size with day-of signup). The top 3 males and females in each age category will receive place ribbons, with prizes awarded to the top male and female times in each race. Trail race routes are now available in the OuterSpatial app.

Known for its remarkable beauty and elevation changes, the Hocking Hills Trail Run offers a challenging workout, as well as the ultimate test of runners’ powers of concentration as they wind through the vast woodlands of both Hocking Hills State Park and Hocking State Forest. Participants will navigate stream crossings, deep gorges and lush, forested paths, with elevation fluctuations throughout. Receiving rave reviews from past participants, runners praise the outstanding scenery and natural features, including waterfalls, rock formations, and caves, as well as its staggered start, diverse age categories and distance options and one-of-a-kind handmade medallions.

Staggered race times begin at 7 a.m. with the 60K start. Runners are required to check-in with a human timer before beginning their race and all runners will be equipped with chip timing devices. Walkers are also welcome at the Hocking Hills Trail Run and leashed pets may run the course with the runner/walker. All races must start before 11 a.m. and end by 3 p.m. to be considered for timing and awards.

Located one hour southeast of Columbus Hocking Hills’ deep gorges, stunning waterfalls, craggy caves and lush forests invite visitors to experience the joy of discovery and the thrill of adventure. Being immersed in the awesomeness of the universe and the stillness of a natural destination that’s welcomed travelers to its wonder for eons ensures unforgettable memories. Incredibly diverse and affordable lodging lets travelers stay in deluxe woodland cabins and lodges, tiny houses, country inns, treehouses, geodomes and more. Thousands of acres of hiking trails, parks and forests, the dark skies of John Glenn Astronomy Park, Hocking Hills Canopy Tours, rappelling, guided hikes, kayaking, pontoon and paddle boat rentals, horseback riding, golf and more help visitors experience the region’s extraordinary natural beauty and its warm, friendly people. Unique museums, gift and antique shops, woodland saunas, spas and more add to Hocking Hills allure as the perfect place to unplug. Complete traveler information is available at ExploreHockingHills.com or 1-800-Hocking

(800-462-5464).