Hocking Hills Gets Ready to Roll: Ohio’s First Mountain Coaster Arrives

The scenic cliffs and waterfalls of Hocking Hills are about to get a serious adrenaline upgrade. Later this year, visitors will have the chance to zip through the treetops on Ohio’s very first mountain coaster, giving a whole new perspective on the region’s rugged beauty. Instead of hiking boots and binoculars, guests will grab a hand brake and a sled-style cart.

The coaster, which will snake through the woods at a local attraction, lets riders control their own speed as they descend a winding metal track. Think of it as a roller coaster you drive, with the throttle in your palm. You can crawl along to take in the autumn leaves, or open it up for a fast, winding ride past the pines. The project is part of a broader push to draw more families and thrill-seekers to an area already famous for its caves, hiking trails, and ziplines.

Local tourism officials are betting the coaster will extend visitors’ stays and give them a reason to come back in the off-season. Construction is already underway, with an opening date expected in the coming months. For now, the biggest question among locals seems to be whether anyone will actually use the brake, or if the first riders will just let it fly.