Conkle’s Hollow is one of the most remarkable natural destinations in Hocking Hills, offering visitors a chance to experience towering sandstone cliffs, shaded hiking trails, and some of the most dramatic scenery in Southeast Ohio. For those seeking an adventure getaway in the Midwest, Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve provides a memorable summer experience filled with natural beauty and outdoor exploration. It’s one of the best things to do in Hocking Hills!
This Ohio nature preserve encompasses more than 80 acres of protected wilderness. Massive sandstone cliffs rise more than 200 feet above the gorge floor, creating a cool and inviting environment during the warmer summer months. The preserve is known for its lush vegetation, moss-covered rock formations, seasonal waterfalls, and quiet atmosphere, which attract hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts year-round.
The most popular route is the Conkle’s Hollow Trail, also known as the Gorge Trail. This easy, family-friendly hike follows a paved and gravel pathway through the heart of the preserve. Along the route, visitors encounter towering rock walls, dense forests, colorful wildflowers, and interpretive signs that highlight the area’s geology and ecology. The trail concludes at The Grotto, a natural amphitheater surrounded by dramatic sandstone cliffs. Following periods of rainfall, small waterfalls cascade down the rock faces, creating one of the most photographed scenes in Hocking Hills.
Another landmark worth seeing is Slump Rock, a massive sandstone formation resting along the trail. Covered in mosses and lichens, it showcases the preserve’s rugged natural character and geological history. For those seeking additional Hocking Hills hiking opportunities, the East and West Rim Trails provide a more challenging experience. These strenuous routes climb above the gorge and follow the cliff edges, rewarding experienced hikers with sweeping views of the preserve below. Proper footwear and preparation are recommended for these elevated trails.
After a day exploring Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve, Glenlaurel offers an exceptional place to relax and recharge. Guests can enjoy private Hocking Hills cabins and suites, the Scottish Links Golf Course, pickleball courts, hiking trails within Camusfearna Gorge, fire pits, spa services, and fine dining at Thistle and Stone. Thoughtfully appointed accommodations featuring fireplaces, private decks, whirlpool tubs, and comfortable sitting areas create the perfect setting for a summer adventure getaway in Hocking Hills. Whether planning a romantic escape, a hiking retreat, or a solo journey, Glenlaurel provides an inviting home base for exploring the region.
Ecola State Park is one of the most rewarding destinations for outdoor enthusiasts exploring the Oregon Coast. Located between Cannon Beach and Seaside, this remarkable park combines a rugged shoreline, towering forests, and panoramic ocean views, making it an ideal stop for a coastal getaway. Whether you prefer a leisurely walk to a scenic overlook or a challenging day hike, Ecola State Park offers trails that showcase the area’s diverse natural beauty.
One of the park’s signature routes is the Tillamook Head Trail, a 6.5-mile, one-way hike connecting Cannon Beach and Seaside. Following part of the historic route traveled by the Lewis and Clark Expedition, the trail winds beneath towering Sitka spruce and through dense coastal forest before revealing spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, hikers can stop at the overlook for Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, affectionately known as “Terrible Tilly,” one of the Oregon Coast’s most recognizable landmarks.
The Indian Beach Trail provides a shorter hiking option while still highlighting the park’s dramatic scenery. This pleasant route descends through lush forest to Indian Beach, where sea stacks, sandy shoreline, and crashing waves create one of the most picturesque settings in Ecola State Park. Visitors looking for a quieter destination can continue to Crescent Beach, Oregon, where a moderately challenging trail leads to a secluded cove surrounded by cliffs and coastal vegetation. During low tide, the rocky shoreline reveals fascinating tide pools filled with marine life.
The Clatsop Loop Trail is another favorite for visitors wanting impressive viewpoints without committing to the full Tillamook Head hike. The trail climbs through old-growth forest before opening to sweeping vistas of the Pacific, rugged cliffs, and Tillamook Rock Lighthouse. Near Ecola Point, several easy walking paths also provide outstanding views of Haystack Rock and the coastline, making them excellent options for photographers and casual walkers alike.
After spending the day exploring Ecola State Park trails and discovering some of the best things to do in Cannon Beach, retreat to Arch Cape Inn & Retreat. Located just minutes from the park, this Oregon Coast Bed and Breakfast offers elegant accommodations, exceptional hospitality, and a peaceful setting away from the crowds. Wake to a chef-prepared breakfast featuring locally sourced ingredients before setting out for another day along the coast. Whether you’re hiking, beachcombing, or discovering hidden viewpoints, our inn provides the perfect home base for your Oregon Coast adventure. Reserve your stay today.
Gull Point State Park sits along West Lake Okoboji’s pristine shoreline, offering hiking trails, water access, and year-round recreation, making it one of Iowa’s most compelling outdoor destinations. Whether you’re drawn to the scenic walking paths, kayaking opportunities, or simply the quiet pull of the Great Lakes region, Gull Point delivers the kind of focused outdoor experience that justifies a dedicated trip.
The park spans 540 acres and is anchored by the Barney Peterson Nature Trail, a 1.3-mile loop that winds through diverse habitat. You’ll encounter white-tailed deer, songbirds, and varied oak and prairie vegetation. The trail isn’t strenuous, making it accessible to most visitors, but it’s far from generic—the interpretive markers identify native plants and explain the landscape’s ecological story. Many visitors pair this walk with time on the water. West Lake Okoboji’s clear blue water supports kayaking and canoeing, with ramps and beach access right at the park. Fishing is solid year-round: walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass, and white bass are common catches.
Fall and winter elevate Gull Point’s appeal. Autumn transforms the oaks into a palette of reds and golds, and the cooler temperatures make hiking genuinely pleasant rather than merely tolerable. Winter visitors often cross-country ski the same trails, giving the park a second season of purpose. Spring and summer bring fishing and water activity into focus.
Beyond the hiking and water activities, Gull Point offers open shelters for picnicking and simple rest areas scattered throughout. Pack lunch and spend an afternoon reading, sketching, or simply watching the lake. This is the kind of place where a few hours feels quiet without the crowds, just landscape and time.
The park sits within easy reach of other attractions in the Iowa Great Lakes region. Emerson Bay, with its Lighthouse Point observation tower, offers water views and beach access. Pikes Point State Park is known for swimming. The Dickinson County Trail system runs for miles and connects directly to several parks, making it possible to string together a multi-day hiking itinerary if you choose.
After a morning hike at Gull Point or an afternoon on the water, returning to The Oakwood Inn turns a day trip into a true retreat. This luxury adults-only bed and breakfast sits on two acres of landscaped grounds just minutes from the park, with manicured gardens, verandas, and the kind of quiet elegance that makes you want to stay longer than planned.
Each of the thirteen guest rooms features a fireplace, luxurious linens, and either a private veranda or patio. Several include a two-person whirlpool tub, perfect for easing tired muscles after a day outdoors. The property’s common spaces, including the Den with its pool table and fireplace, the sunny breakfast room, and the gardens themselves, encourage you to relax, connect with other guests, or simply recharge in solitude.
The gourmet breakfast is prepared from scratch daily with seasonal ingredients and family recipes. You might wake to a three-course spread that turns the morning into an event rather than a routine. Dietary restrictions are accommodated with advance notice, and guests can enjoy breakfast in the dining room, in their room, or as a packed breakfast to take along on an adventure.
The Oakwood Inn’s innkeepers, Bill and Bridget, offer personalized recommendations for trails, dining, and local activity rentals. Their hands-on approach means you’re not consulting a generic tourism guide; you’re getting the insight of people who live here and know the region’s rhythm.
Book an Iowa bed and breakfast getaway at The Oakwood Inn and spend your days exploring Gull Point and the broader Great Lakes region, knowing that a comfortable, welcoming retreat awaits you each evening.
Newberry National Volcanic Monument offers one of the most compelling summer adventure experiences in Central Oregon. Located just south of Bend, this expansive volcanic landscape reveals centuries of geological change through lava flows, obsidian fields, and the vast Newberry caldera. At its center, Paulina Lake and East Lake provide a striking contrast, with clear alpine water surrounded by rugged volcanic terrain.
A visit often begins at the Lava Lands Visitor Center, where exhibits and trail maps introduce the scale and history of the monument. From there, travelers can explore a range of environments in a single day, from open lava fields to shaded forests and underground lava tube caves. The Lava River Cave remains one of the most memorable experiences, offering a two-mile journey through a naturally formed lava tube that stays cool even in peak summer.
Hiking trails vary in difficulty and scenery. The Big Obsidian Flow Trail showcases glossy black volcanic glass formed relatively recently, while the Lava Cast Forest loop highlights preserved tree impressions engulfed by lava thousands of years ago. For panoramic views, Paulina Peak provides a high vantage point over the caldera, lakes, and surrounding mountains.
With top Central Oregon attractions nearby, including Bend’s dining and brewery scene and the expansive Deschutes National Forest, this region supports a well-rounded summer itinerary. Planning ahead is recommended, especially for popular sites like the Lava River Cave, where reservations are often required. A visit to Newberry National Volcanic Monument combines geological significance with accessible outdoor recreation, making it a cornerstone destination in Central Oregon.
After a full day exploring Newberry Volcano and the surrounding region, returning to comfortable accommodations enhances the overall experience. Historic Gilchrist Waterfront Resort offers Central Oregon vacation homes designed for relaxation and connection. Lakefront cabins provide direct access to the water, while shared amenities such as a pool, hot tub, and sports courts keep the whole family entertained.
The property is particularly well-suited for families and groups, with spacious layouts and the option for full property buyouts. Guests can spend mornings on the lake, afternoons exploring lava caves and trails, and evenings gathering together in a private, fully equipped setting. Its location provides convenient access to Newberry National Volcanic Monument while maintaining a sense of space and privacy.
Jay Cooke State Park Trails: A Duluth Hiking Escape Worth the Trip
Twenty minutes from downtown Duluth, the Jay Cooke State Park trails wind through river gorges, pine forest, and rocky overlooks along the St. Louis River. With more than fifty miles of trail and a swinging bridge that crosses the river above a stretch of whitewater rapids, this park is consistently ranked among the best hikes near Duluth, and it earns that reputation in every season. Whether you’re planning a short loop or a full day on the trail, Jay Cooke State Park trails give you a real outdoor getaway without a long drive to reach it.
Best Hikes Near Duluth Start at the Swinging Bridge
The swinging bridge is the park’s signature feature, and most Jay Cooke state park hiking routes are built around it. The suspension bridge crosses the St. Louis River right above a set of dramatic rapids, and the combination of moving water below and sway underfoot makes it a memorable start to any hike. From there, the Silver Creek Trail forms a 3.5-mile loop that follows the river before cutting into hardwood forest and circling back. It’s an ideal introduction if you have a few hours and want a genuine sense of the park without committing to a full day of Jay Cooke state park hiking trails.
For more distance, the Superior Hiking Trail begins its northern stretch here. Expect uneven footing and real elevation change. Several sections run close to the river, so conditions shift quickly after rain, particularly in spring when water levels rise.
The Trails Aren’t Only for Hikers
Cyclists have an eight-mile paved stretch of the Willard Munger State Trail plus thirteen miles of mountain bike trail. In winter, thirty-two miles convert to cross-country ski trail, and ten more are set aside for snowshoeing, with rentals available on-site. Among Minnesota state parks near Duluth, few offer this much range across all four seasons.
Your Outdoor Getaway Needs a Home Base: Bed and Breakfast Duluth MN
A day on the Duluth hiking trails is better with a comfortable place to return to. Solglimt is the only lakefront Bed and Breakfast in Duluth, MN, set right on Park Point with a private stretch of Lake Superior shoreline. Guest rooms look out over the water, and mornings start with a three-course breakfast before you head out for another day on the trail. After hiking Jay Cooke State Park trails, an evening spent watching the ships cross the harbor is the kind of contrast that makes an outdoor getaway feel complete.
Plan Your Visit With the Jay Cooke State Park Map
A Minnesota State Parks vehicle permit is required and can be purchased at the park office or online in advance. Fall draws the biggest crowds thanks to the color along the gorge, so arrive early on weekends. Sturdy shoes matter here, since sections of the Jay Cooke state park trails involve rock scrambling near the water. Pulling up the park map before you go will help you match a route to the time and energy you have.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a fee to hike Jay Cooke State Park trails?
Yes. A Minnesota State Parks vehicle permit is required and can be bought at the park office or online before your visit.
Is Jay Cooke State Park open year-round?
Yes. The park operates in every season, with trail use shifting from hiking and biking in warmer months to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter.
How long is the swinging bridge hike?
The Silver Creek Trail, which begins at the swinging bridge, is a 3.5-mile loop and takes most hikers two to three hours.
What is the best time of year to visit?
Fall is the most popular for color along the river gorge, though the park draws visitors year-round for its range of terrain and winter trail options.
Ready to build your own outdoor getaway around the Jay Cooke State Park trails? Reserve your room at Solglimt, the only lakefront Bed and Breakfast in Duluth, MN, and make the trailhead part of your itinerary.
If you’re searching for a unique way to experience southeastern Ohio, the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway belongs at the top of your itinerary. This 22-mile paved rail trail follows the Hocking River from Nelsonville to Athens, offering one of the most scenic and accessible rides in the Midwest. Built along a former railroad corridor, the trail winds through forests, farmland, and quiet river landscapes, making it one of the best things to do in Hocking Hills.
Named for the Shawnee word “Hockhocking,” meaning “twisted” or “bottleneck,” and the Adena people who once lived throughout the region, the bikeway blends natural beauty with the area’s rich history. The nearly flat, paved surface welcomes cyclists of all experience levels, whether you’re planning a leisurely afternoon ride or a full out-and-back adventure.
As you travel south from Nelsonville, the trail passes Hocking College before entering long stretches of wooded scenery where towering trees provide welcome shade. The middle section is especially picturesque, with the Hocking River running alongside the trail and frequent opportunities to spot deer, great blue herons, and other wildlife. As you approach Athens, the atmosphere shifts to the vibrant energy of Ohio University, where coffee shops, breweries, and local restaurants make an enjoyable stop before your return ride.
If you’re looking to extend your cycling adventure, nearby destinations like the Baileys Trail System, Strouds Run State Park, and Lake Hope State Park offer additional opportunities to experience some of Ohio’s most popular bike trails. Whether you’re discovering the region for the first time or returning for another visit, the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway offers a memorable way to explore the natural beauty, history, and outdoor recreation that make Hocking Hills a favorite Midwest destination.
After a rewarding day on the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway, Glenlaurel, A Scottish Inn and Getaway Cottages, offers an exceptional place to unwind. Located about 30 minutes from the northern trailhead, this adults-only retreat combines refined accommodations with the peaceful surroundings of Hocking Hills. Choose from elegant suites, cozy inn rooms, or private cabins in Hocking Hills featuring gas fireplaces, handcrafted details, and secluded hot tubs. Every stay includes a gourmet breakfast, while dinner at Thistle & Stone provides the perfect ending to an active day of exploring.
Rib Mountain State Park centers on a quartzite ridge, thought to be one of the oldest geological formations on Earth, rising to the third-highest point in the state just four miles from downtown Wausau. Locals simply call it Rib Mountain, and it earns the affection. More than 13 miles of Rib Mountain hiking trails wind past rocky outcroppings and an old quarry. At the 1,942-foot summit, a 60-foot observation tower offers views of the Wisconsin River valley stretching for miles. Come fall in Wisconsin, when the maples below the tower turn every shade of amber and red, there is no better vantage point in the state, making it the ideal centerpiece for a fall getaway.
The mountain is reason enough to visit, but it sits at the center of a surprisingly full weekend. When our guests ask about things to do in Wausau, WI, we recommend starting with a morning hike at Rib Mountain State Park, then spending the afternoon watching paddlers navigate the Wausau Whitewater Park or exploring the bird-inspired galleries at the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum. The 400 Block hosts concerts, festivals, and community events throughout the warmer months, and when winter arrives, Granite Peak Ski Area transforms Rib Mountain Wausau into one of the Midwest’s premier skiing destinations.
After a day on the trails, you will want to return to a comfortable home base. Stewart Inn is one of the top weekend getaways in Wisconsin. Located in Wausau’s downtown river district, our lodging is a 1906 Prairie-style mansion designed by George Maher and was the first property in Wausau listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Most people head straight to the summit when visiting Rib Mountain State Park. You can drive nearly to the top along the winding park road or hike your way there, and either route leads to the 60-foot observation tower overlooking Wausau, the Wisconsin River Valley, and miles of surrounding forest. Around the summit, you will also find picnic areas, impressive quartzite outcroppings worth exploring, and the Top of the Rib concession stand, where snacks, drinks, and gifts help support park programs.
The Rib Mountain hiking trails are what keep visitors coming back. The Yellow Trail offers the park’s most challenging route, descending the mountain’s southern slope through mature hardwood forest. The Green Trail provides a shorter loop that passes unique quartzite formations tucked beneath the trees. The Blue Trail, originally built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the 1930s, features hand-built stone staircases and some of the park’s most distinctive rock formations. The Quarry Trail leads to the historic quartzite quarry once operated by 3M, while the nearby Dynamite Trail passes the former dynamite storage area used during the quarry’s operation. More than eight miles of the park’s trail system are accessible to visitors with disabilities, making Rib Mountain State Park one of Wisconsin’s most accessible hiking destinations.
Rib Mountain State Park changes with every season. Fall in Wisconsin brings the park’s busiest and most colorful months, when brilliant maples and oaks transform the mountainside into one of central Wisconsin’s finest places to experience autumn. During winter, Granite Peak Ski Area offers downhill skiing and snowboarding, while a groomed snowshoe trail along portions of the Middle Yellow Trail provides a quieter way to enjoy the snow-covered forest.
The park is open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. year-round, about ten minutes from downtown Wausau. Rib Mountain State Park is a day-use park, so overnight camping is not available, and a Wisconsin State Park vehicle admission pass is required for vehicles entering the property, although visitors arriving on foot do not need a vehicle sticker. Dogs are welcome on the trails when kept on a leash no longer than eight feet. Trail maps are available at the park office and online, and it is worth picking one up before heading out because several trail intersections near the summit can be easy to miss.
A full day exploring Rib Mountain State Park deserves a comfortable place to unwind, and that is where Stewart Inn comes in. Sitting in Wausau’s downtown river district, our lodging is the perfect location for a fall getaway. Each of our guest rooms features a king bed, ensuite bath, fireplace, luxury linens, and a steam shower you will appreciate after a day on the trails. Join us for our nightly wine reception before settling in for the evening.
Come morning, the real show begins. Our gourmet multi-course breakfast is made from scratch every day with ingredients sourced from local Wisconsin purveyors, preparing you for another day of exploring Rib Mountain State Park or discovering more things to do in Wausau, WI, all within easy reach of our front door.
Book your stay at Stewart Inn and start planning one of the best weekend getaways in Wisconsin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Rib Mountain State Park?
Rib Mountain State Park sits about four miles from downtown Wausau, Wisconsin, roughly ten minutes by car.
Can you camp at Rib Mountain State Park?
No. Rib Mountain State Park is a day-use park, so overnight camping is not available, though nearby lodging like Stewart Inn offers a comfortable alternative just minutes away.
How tall is Rib Mountain?
Rib Mountain rises to a 1,942-foot summit, making it the third-highest point in Wisconsin.
Where is the best place to stay near Rib Mountain State Park?
Downtown Wausau makes an excellent base, with Stewart Inn offering a historic Prairie-style mansion setting just a short drive from the park entrance.
Winter in Maryland brings crisp mountain air, snowy trails, and inviting ways to slow down for a few days. Savage River State Forest is one of the best places to experience the season thanks to its vast network of trails and scenic outdoor spaces. There are so many fantastic things to do in Deep Creek Lake, including snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and time spent in the fresh snow.
Snowshoeing remains one of the most popular winter activities in Maryland because it is easy to learn and offers a peaceful way to move through the trees. At Savage River State Forest, routes like Monroe Run and parts of Big Savage Mountain offer open views, evergreens, and terrain ranging from gentle to more gradual climbs. When snowfall picks up, the forest turns into a clean white landscape perfect for long days outside.
Cross-country skiing is another top choice. Nearly nine miles of marked ski trails sit off I-68 at Exit 29 near the Savage River Lodge. Snowshoeing is welcome on these trails as long as visitors stay to the sides of the groomed tracks. With free access and straightforward navigation, these routes appeal to both beginners and seasoned winter hikers.
Snowmobiling draws visitors as well, especially after six inches or more of snowfall. With a required ten-dollar DNR ORV Sticker, riders can explore three main areas, including the Meadow Mountain Trail, Margraff Plantation Roads loop, and Bowman Hill North Trails.
Lake Pointe Inn is one of the best Deep Creek Lake Hotels. Its location offers easy access to the forest and Wisp Resort, which adds skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and a year-round mountain coaster to your list of the best things to do in Maryland this winter. After a day outside, warming up by the fire or enjoying quiet moments in your comfortable suite makes the getaway even more memorable. A winter trip to Savage River State Forest offers both the thrill of outdoor recreation and the comfort of mountain lodging, creating a balanced and refreshing escape.
Taughannock Falls State Park stands out as one of the most compelling destinations in the Finger Lakes, offering couples a well-rounded mix of natural beauty and accessible outdoor experiences. The park’s defining feature, Taughannock Falls, drops 215 feet past towering limestone cliffs, creating one of the most striking waterfalls in New York. Whether viewed from the base or the Taughannock Falls overlook, the scale and vertical presence make it a must-see for those exploring the region.
The Taughannock Falls State Park trails provide multiple ways to experience the landscape. The Gorge Trail is an easy, under-one-mile walk that leads directly to the base of the falls, making it ideal for a relaxed outing. For a more elevated perspective, the North and South Rim Trails connect to form a moderate loop of approximately 2.75 miles, offering expansive views into the gorge and surrounding forest. These trails highlight why this area is known for some of the most memorable waterfalls in New York.
Beyond hiking upstate NY, the park’s location along Cayuga Lake expands the experience. Couples can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, or swimming at the designated beach area, while fishing and picnicking provide a slower-paced alternative. The surrounding Finger Lakes region adds even more variety, including wine tasting along established trails and visits to nearby towns such as Trumansburg and the iconic Watkins Glen State Park, where local shops and dining reflect the area’s agricultural roots.
A stay at a boutique Hotel in the Finger Lakes enhances the overall experience with comfort and convenience. Located just minutes from Taughannock Falls State Park, this lodging option allows guests to move easily between outdoor exploration and relaxation. Thoughtfully designed guest suites, inviting shared spaces, and daily breakfast create a consistent sense of ease throughout your stay.
Guests can extend their visit with on-site amenities such as spa treatments, an outdoor jacuzzi tub, and fire pit seating, offering a balanced retreat after time on the trails. With close proximity to Taughannock Falls State Park trails and the region’s wineries and small towns, it is an ideal base for a couples-focused getaway. Plan your visit and secure your stay to experience one of the most accessible and rewarding destinations in the Finger Lakes.