The Hocking Hills Region is a geological anomaly in the state of Ohio. As a whole, Ohio has been historically connected to the Ohio Valley, a region of 1700's settlements east of the Appalachia Mountains. But the glacier-created flatlands that represent a majority of this state do not account for the rock and ridge canyons of the Hocking Hills.

Over 5,000 years ago, the last of the glaciers created the bowl of the Ohio Valley and much of the Midwest. The ancient walls of Hocking Hills...an eroding weave of sandstones gorges existed as the base of the Appalachia range. Cooled by the nearby glaciers, the canyons of the Hocking Hills became an ideal microclimate for seedlings of northern flora released from the glaciers in their melting retreat. Hemlock forests and fern filled wetlands would have bordered these glaciers until long after their retreat north. However, the Hemlocks themselves retreated southeast...into the cool, preserving climate of what is now Hocking Hills.

In recent history, the state of Ohio bought thousands of acres and created six state parks within 10 miles of the gorge and woodlands, including Old Man's Cave, Cedar Falls, and Rock House, which now give respite to southeastern Ohio's most charming and prestigious inn. Additionally, a dedication toward preservation in private ownership accounts for much of the respected woodlands that fill in the spaces between state parks, including the softly treaded canyon and mature woods of Camusfearna Gorge.

Adding to the natural color and uniqueness of the region, a fair number of local artists and skilled craftspeople have set up shop along the winding roads of the county. Along with canoeing, horseback riding, boating, golf and year-round hiking, the leisurely atmosphere of the region makes the Hocking Hills a premiere site for nature enthusiast...or those simply wishing to relax in the company of a natural world.

Things to do at the Glenlaurel Estate:

Camusfearna Gorge - Why leave Glenlaurel? We have some amazingly beautiful walking trails with our own Camusfearna Gorge & Thistle Bluff walk. These trails offer you beautiful rock formations with 50 to 100 foot rock cliffs, caverns, two creeks, and restful waterfalls.

Bird Watching - With over 50 species sighted on premise, including two bald eagles, you can spend the entire day watching all the birds. The depth of our gorge and the profusion of ferns & wildflowers make this an ideal spot see all the varieties you don't normally see elsewhere.

Star Gazing - At Glenlaurel, you can enjoy the benefits without urban lights to interrupt your view. We are located in an area that has one of the darkest skies in central Ohio. Therefore, each night you have a wonderful chance of enjoying the beauty of star gazing and seeing a shooting star or two.

Wildflowers - While at Glenlaurel, take a stroll around the grounds and enjoy the natural beauty.

Bonfires - We have a fantastic fire pit available for guest use. It is also the perfect spot to star gaze.

Annual Open House - This coming year Glenlaurel will be 14 years old! Come join us in the celebration with open house on Sunday, July 13th, from 2 to 5 pm.

Things to do in the local area:

Basket Weaving - Leota Hutchison teaches the craft in classes everyday except Sunday. She is a "living treasure" here in the Hills. 

Golf - From rugged country hillside terrain (Very Scotlandish) to country club-style links, add a round of out of the ordinary golf to your next trip to the Hills. 

Horseback Riding - Spotted Horse Ranch. Located nearby.

Canoeing - Hocking Valley Canoe Livery is located in Logan, open seasonally & for special events. 

Hiking - Hocking Hills features numerous hiking trails. From state parks to trails, one day is not enough to see them all.

Shopping - From antique shops to flea markets to shopping in downtown Logan, there is a special treasure to be found.

Arts & Crafts and Museums - There are so many craftsmen & women in Hocking Hills; it would be hard to list them all. Ask us for a visitor guide and recommendations.

Bicycling - There are many rider-friendly bike paths in the area, including Hockhocking Adena Bikeway. This path is 17 miles from Nelsonville to Athens. You can also rollerblade on this path & it is handicap accessible. Bring your bike or rent from local shops.

Scenic Train Rides at Hocking Valley - Scenic Railway Trains depart from Nelsonville on Saturday and Sunday at 12 noon and 2:30 pm through the first weekend in November.