LOGAN, Ohio — The Ohio Department of Natural Resources has announced Hocking Hills State Park will be closed until further notice.
In a press release, ODNR said the park and all of its trails will close at sunset Friday due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“In order to protect the health and safety of our visitors, we are temporarily closing Hocking Hills State Park,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “This was a difficult decision, however, this unique trail system is not designed to allow for adequate social distancing without potential risks.”
ODNR said the challenging terrain of a narrow trail system where stepping off the trail is strictly prohibited makes keeping 6 feet of distance between people nearly impossible.
Hocking Hills State Park is the first full park closure in Ohio. The closure includes several features and sites: Ash Cave, Cantwell Cliffs, Cedar Falls, Old Man’s Cave, Rock House and Whispering Cave. This closure also includes Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve.
