Hocking Hills launches 12th annual Holiday Treasure Hunt

Explore Hocking Hills says its Holiday Treasure Hunt is now underway in southeastern Ohio and runs through Dec. 12. The event is designed to drive holiday travel, support independent shops and studios, and give visitors a low-key way to reconnect with nature and local businesses.

Why it matters: - The Holiday Treasure Hunt gives Hocking Hills a holiday-season draw that ties tourism to small-business spending. - Visitors can turn a weekend trip into a prize-eligible shopping and arts crawl across the region. - The promotion also pushes travelers toward longer stays, which can lift spending on lodging, dining and activities.

What happened: - Explore Hocking Hills launched the 12th annual Holiday Treasure Hunt, which runs through Saturday, Dec. 12. - Visitors can pick up a treasure map at the Hocking Hills Welcome Center at 13178 OH-664 in Logan, Ohio, or download one from the Holiday Treasure Hunt page. - Participants who visit at least six of 31 participating independent shops and art studios and collect stamps are eligible for a prize drawing. - The grand prize is an inclusive weekend getaway for four people that includes a two-night cabin stay, Hocking Hills Canopy Tour passes, canoe rental on the Hocking River, Hocking Hills Adventure Golf, candle making, lunch and dinner.

The details: - The treasure hunt is meant to help travelers slow down over the holidays while exploring the natural beauty of Hocking Hills. - Participating stops include independent shops, art studios, coffee roasters, craft breweries, wineries and distillers. - The region also includes what Explore Hocking Hills describes as the last remaining washboard factory in the U.S. - Visitors can watch artisans at work, make gifts in classes such as glass blowing or blacksmithing, or buy gift certificates for those experiences. - Explore Hocking Hills says travelers can also plan a complete getaway through its website or by calling 1-800-Hocking (800-462-5464). - The region’s accommodations include cabins and lodges, many with hot tubs and fireplaces. - Winter visitors are encouraged to use the area’s trails for a free hike and a quieter holiday outing.

Between the lines: - The event blends holiday shopping with experiential travel, which helps Hocking Hills compete for attention during a crowded seasonal travel period. - The focus on local makers and independent businesses signals a strategy built around authenticity rather than mass-market tourism. - The tourism association is also framing the region as a place for responsible travel, not just recreation.

What's next: - Travelers can use the holiday promotion now through Dec. 12 to plan visits, collect stamps and enter the prize drawing. - Explore Hocking Hills also points visitors to its Love Hocking Hills program, which is aimed at educating visitors and residents about protecting the region’s natural resources. - More travel information is available at ExploreHockingHills.com or 1-800-Hocking (800-462-5464). - Additional details about responsible tourism are available at Love Hocking Hills.