Hocking Hills

A-Frame Cabin at The Chalets in Logan, Ohio.

Nestled in the serene forests of Hocking County, Ohio, just a stone's throw away from the enchanting Hocking Hills State Park lies a gem called The Chalets. My recent stay at this picturesque retreat left me captivated by its natural beauty, comfortable accommodations, and endless opportunities for exploration.

The A-Frame cabins I called home during my stay were perched atop one of the many lush hills, offering a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding wooded haven. These spacious cabins boast two bedrooms, a charming patio deck featuring a hot tub, and a convenient personal grill. One of the standout features for me was the fact that The Chalets warmly welcomes pets, ensuring that every member of the family can join in on the adventure.

Speaking of adventure, The Chalets catered to every aspect of a perfect getaway. A cozy campfire area, a short stroll down the hill from the line of A-Frames, provides the ideal setting for evening gatherings and marshmallow toasting. The resort's amenities extended beyond the cabins, with a refreshing pool, inviting sauna pods available for reservation, and a sprawling field behind the main office – a dog's paradise for frolic and play.

With a legacy dating back to 1988, The Chalets have been offering souls like mine a chance to embrace the tranquility of the woods for decades. The timeless charm of this retreat seeped into every moment of my stay, from the invigorating mornings spent savoring breakfast in the kitchen area with the patio door wide open, to the cozy nights that allowed me to warm up by the fireplace, indulge in s'mores, or unwind in the bubbling embrace of the hot tub.

The hours between my time at the cabin, I spent seeking out adventure in the area. Embarking on local hiking trails allowed me to immerse myself in the natural wonders of the area while uncovering charming cafes and local grocers added a touch of rustic delight to my picnics. The nearby towns' markets unveiled a treasure trove of unique finds that added an extra layer of personal joy to my journey.

Of course, no time spent in Hocking County would be complete without spending most of it in the awe-inspiring Hocking Hills State Park. As I explored the park's many maps and trails, I was greeted by over 25 miles of hiking trails, majestic rock formations, cascading waterfalls, and mystical recess caves. Each step was a great foot into reconnecting with the nature around me.

One of the most memorable hikes led me to Grandma's Gatewood Trail, where I embraced the beauty of a portion of the 6-mile trail. Starting near the Upper Falls and ending near Old Man's Cave, this trail was a part of grander journeys like the Buckeye Trail, the North Country Trail, and the American Discovery Trail. The next day, I explored a different stretch of Grandma's Gatewood Trail that commenced at the Ash Cave Fire Tower. The 80-foot tower was an architectural marvel from 1934 that offered sweeping vistas of the state park.

The hiking trail took me to Ash Cave, a natural wonder where water created art through the seasons – from serene pools to intricate icy formations. The return hike was a vastness of deep colors, with the trail shifting between bright mossy greens, dappled sunlight, and a myriad of earthy tones. Even the simpler walks, like the one solely into the heart of Ash Cave, proved to be enchanting experiences that left a lasting imprint on my soul.

Satisfying every wanderer's need, The Chalets' proximity to Grandma's Faye's Grocery ensured that I was equipped with delectable pasta salads, all of the s'mores supplies, and cozy sweaters to embrace the cool evening air. For the thrift shopper in me, the Logan Antique Mall held a trove of treasures, from vintage glassware to antique rings and captivating works of art. And for a dash of whimsy and getting in touch with my inner child, the nearby gem mining area provided a playful escape.

The entirety of my time spent in Hocking County, Ohio was a harmonious period of natural beauty, cozy cabins, and boundless exploration. This hidden retreat has etched its name in my heart as a place of serenity and enchantment, where every sunrise brings promise and every sunset gifts gratitude. For anyone seeking an escape into the embrace of nature without compromising comfort, Hocking Hills is nestled in the most peaceful place a woman and her dog could ask for.