Packing for January in Hocking Hills is simple: warm layers, waterproof footwear, and a swimsuit. A little preparation goes a long way and makes winter trips comfortable from the moment you arrive.
January at Pool House Lodge looks like this: snow on the 22 acres outside, kids in the heated indoor pool, hot chocolate in the kitchen, and nobody worried about the weather.
January Packing List
- Waterproof boots with good traction — trails can be icy or muddy
- Warm layers — base layer, mid-layer fleece, and an outer shell
- Hats, gloves, and a scarf — mornings and evenings get cold fast
- Indoor slippers or cozy socks — you'll live in these inside the cabin
- Swimsuits — for the heated indoor pool and hot tub, open year-round
- Groceries and favorite snacks — the kitchen is fully equipped
- Flashlight or headlamp — January nights are dark and long
What Should I Pack for Hiking Hocking Hills in January?
Waterproof boots with good traction are the most important item. January trails can be icy in the morning and muddy by afternoon — good boots handle both. Add traction cleats if you have them; they make a real difference on the stone steps at Old Man's Cave.
Layering works better than packing one heavy coat. You'll warm up quickly on the trails and need to peel a layer, then want it back when you stop to take photos at the falls. A base layer, fleece, and a wind-resistant outer shell gives you flexibility. For trail-by-trail details on what to expect underfoot, our Hocking Hills hiking guide covers each trailhead — the same terrain applies in winter.
What Should I Pack for Evenings at the Cabin?
Comfortable loungewear, slippers, and whatever makes you feel at home go a long way on a January evening when you're not going back outside. Cabins in Hocking Hills are built for winter stays — warmth is not an issue, comfort is.
Don't forget your swimsuit. The heated indoor pool at Pool House Lodge is open every day of the year. A January morning swim or an evening in the hot tub is one of the best parts of a winter stay here — and guests who forget their suits always regret it.
What Are the Winter Safety Rules for Hocking Hills Trails?
- Stick to marked trails — off-trail areas can be slippery and uneven in winter
- Avoid cliff edges, especially when wet or icy
- Tell someone where you're hiking if going alone
- Check the forecast before heading out — conditions change fast in January. Our Plan Your Stay guide covers what to do in every season
- Bring water even in cold weather — you still need to stay hydrated on winter hikes
What Does Pool House Lodge Provide — What Don't I Need to Pack?
Pool House Lodge provides towels, pool towels, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and lotion. The kitchen has everything you need to cook — pots, pans, dishes, appliances. You don't need to pack light, but you also don't need to overpack. Focus on layers and comfort.
January Dates Available
Winter weekends book out fast. Check your dates now and lock in your stay before they're gone.
Check AvailabilityLast Updated: June 30, 2026 · By Ton, Pool House Lodge Blogger