Spending Memorial Day Weekend in Hocking Hills (2026)
Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer in Hocking Hills, Ohio, drawing crowds to its stunning gorges, cascading waterfalls, and lively festivals throughout the region.
Whether you’re planning family gatherings, a couples’ retreat, or a solo adventure, this guide covers everything you need for the 2026 holiday weekend and beyond.
Book your stay with Hocking Lodging Company and be right in the middle of all the holiday weekend festivities.
Memorial Day Weekend Events 2026
Photo Credit: flysnowfly
Memorial Day Weekend 2026 lands May 23–25, marking the unofficial start of summer in Hocking Hills—and one of the most lively times to visit.
- New Straitsville Moonshine Festival (Friday–Monday): A long-running local favorite with carnival rides, live music, food vendors, and small-town festival energy just a short drive from Hocking Hills
- Winery Evenings at Hocking Hills Winery: Expect live music on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights, typically starting around 6:00 p.m.—perfect for winding down after a day on the trails
- Hocking Hills State Park Programs: Full trail access plus seasonal ranger-led hikes and interpretive programs throughout the weekend
- Outdoor Adventures & Tours: Area outfitters ramp up offerings with zipline canopy tours, kayaking and canoe rentals, and scenic rides on the Hocking Valley Railway
Note: Event schedules, hours, and availability can shift—check official Hocking Hills resources and individual event sites the week of your trip for the latest updates.
Hocking Hills Memorial Day Weekend Activities
Memorial Day Weekend kicks off the summer season festival calendar in Hocking Hills. From historic celebrations to live music under the stars, upcoming events offer something for every visitor.
Moonshine Festival in New Straitsville
The New Straitsville Moonshine Festival traditionally runs Friday through Monday of Memorial Day weekend, celebrating the town’s Prohibition-era bootlegging history. A working moonshine still display, and a local history museum offer a glimpse into how residents evaded revenue agents in the hills.
The festival creates a family-friendly carnival atmosphere with rides, games, specialty foods (moonshine burgers, moonshine pie), and live entertainment.
Logan Memorial Day Parade
Held in downtown Logan. The parade typically leaves the Logan fairgrounds on Monday morning (approximately 9:00 AM - 9:45 AM) and heads to the cemetery for a memorial service.
Arrive early for parking in this small town and bring cash for food, rides, and souvenirs.
Live Music & Wine at Local Wineries
Hocking Hills Winery, located about 9 miles from Old Man’s Cave, frequently hosts evening live music throughout the holiday weekend. The atmosphere is relaxed with outdoor seating when weather permits, a cozy indoor tasting room, and casual dress throughout.
Enjoy award-winning wine by the glass or bottle alongside charcuterie boards, shareable salads, and pizza. No reservations are typically required, though arriving early secures the best seats during crowded evenings.
Outdoor Things to Do Memorial Day Weekend
Late May is prime season for experiencing Hocking Hills at its finest. Waterfalls run strong after spring rains, and the scenery bursts with vibrant greenery. Whether you prefer a challenging hike, a relaxing lake afternoon, or adventure tours through the treetops, options abound.
Pro Tip: Start outdoor activities early to avoid midday heat and crowded trails.
Parks & Hikes in Hocking Hills
Photo Credit: Kenneth Keifer
Memorial Day weekend draws visitors to iconic spots. These are a few favorites.
- Hocking Hills State Park: Old Man’s Cave with its 6-mile gorge loop and 500 stairs, Cedar Falls via a 1.5-mile out-and-back trail, and the accessible Ash Cave with its 0.5-mile paved path. the narrow
- Conkle’s Hollow: rated difficult for its cliff-edge rim trail, Rock House with unique cave formations, and lesser-known spots like Cantwell Cliffs and Whispering Cave.
Arrive early in the morning. Parking lots at popular trailheads fill by mid-morning. Stick to designated areas and expect slow sections on narrow trails, such as the Grandma Gatewood Trail, which connects several caves.
Family-friendly options include the wide path into Ash Cave and accessible overlooks along the rim of Conkle’s Hollow.
Lake Logan & Water Activities
Photo Credit: PeopleImages
Lake Logan offers a prime Memorial Day weekend spot for swimming, picnicking, and relaxing near the water. Rent kayaks or canoes, try fishing (Ohio license required), or simply enjoy the forested scenery.
Arrive early for lakeside parking and beach space, especially Saturday and Sunday when most people flock to the lake. Pack a full day kit: picnic blanket, cooler, sunscreen, water shoes for rocky bottoms, and games for kids.
The scene is quintessential summer. Expect families grilling, kids swimming, and groups enjoying a laid-back start to the season.
For a fun, refreshing way to enjoy the waterways over Memorial Day weekend, consider tubing in the Hocking Hills. Hocking Hills has some of the most scenic spots in the state.
Ziplining, Kayaking & Scenic Tours
Memorial Day weekend is popular for canopy zipline tours that traverse 100–200 feet through the Hocking Hills treetops. Make reservations early; slots fill fast during the holiday weekend.
Kayaking on the Hocking River and Lake Logan offers serene waters and scenic views for paddlers of all skill levels. For the best experience, plan trips during early mornings or late afternoons to enjoy calmer waters and avoid midday crowds.
Consider a self-guided scenic drive along the Hocking Hills Byway or a ride on the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway from the Nelsonville Depot. Check the 2026 timetable for Memorial Day-adjacent trips.
Families benefit from mixing active adventures with more relaxed sightseeing to pace the long weekend.
Where to Stay
Memorial Day falls just before peak summer, making it a favorite time for family reunions in Hocking Hills. Gather your group before vacation schedules get complicated.
Multi-bedroom lodges and cabins sleep 10–20 , many featuring private hot tubs, game rooms, and expansive decks overlooking ravines. Structure your weekend around shared breakfasts on the deck, mid-morning hikes, lake afternoons, and evening cookouts with s’mores by the firepit.
Memorial Day Weather in Hocking Hills
Late May brings some of the best weather of the year in Hocking County, making it perfect for hiking trails and outdoor adventures. Spring rains enhance the flow of waterfalls while the woods come alive with lush greenery.
Expect daytime highs in the upper 70s to low 80s °F with nighttime lows dipping into the 50s °F. Humidity and pop-up thunderstorms are common, so pack light rain gear, quick-dry clothing, and extra socks for muddy trail sections.
For hiking, wear layers, sturdy waterproof shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Ticks and black flies emerge this time of year. Evening events call for a light jacket as temperatures can drop 20–30 degrees after the sun sets.
Travel Tips for Memorial Day Weekend
A little extra planning transforms a busy holiday weekend into a fun, stress-free trip to nature. Build flexibility into your itinerary. Have backup hike options, consider lesser-known areas during peak hours, and remember that part of the weekend’s charm is slowing down to enjoy the scenery.
Here are some things to consider:
- Driving and parking: Expect heavier traffic Friday evening and Monday afternoon on US-33. Carpool when possible and arrive at popular trailheads before 9 a.m.
- Trail Safety Tips: Stay on marked trails, respect cliff edges and waterfalls (rescues occur every year), carry water (about 0.5–1 liter per hour of hiking), and watch kids closely in steep or crowded areas—especially near Rock House, the gorge at Ash Cave, and overlooks at Cedar Falls.
- Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash, avoid feeding wildlife (deer are common), and be considerate of fellow visitors.
- Expect very busy crowds throughout the three days: book lodging reservations 6–9 months in advance for the best selection, and plan roughly 1 hour driving time from Columbus via US-33.
Book Your Memorial Day Weekend in Hocking Hills
Memorial Day Weekend is one of the most popular times to visit Hocking Hills, and the best cabins get booked early. Whether you’re planning a couples escape, a family trip, or a group getaway, staying close to the trails makes all the difference.
Hocking Lodging Company offers a curated collection of cabins, lodges, and luxury retreats—ranging from cozy, secluded stays to large properties designed for groups. Many feature hot tubs, wooded views, fire pits, and easy access to top spots like Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave, and Cedar Falls.
Secure your spot for the holiday weekend and make the most of early summer in Hocking Hills.