Hocking Hills State Park in Ohio is a renowned destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a captivating blend of stunning caves, cascading waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a nature lover seeking a new adventure, this region promises to enchant and inspire. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the must-visit caves, the best hiking trails, and essential information to help you plan your Hocking Hills experience.
Popular Caves to Explore
Ash Cave
Ash Cave is one of the most impressive and awe-inspiring caves in the Hocking Hills. This massive recess cave features a large entrance and a variety of fascinating geological formations, including towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and intricate rock structures. Visitors can marvel at the sheer scale of this natural wonder and immerse themselves in the serene ambiance.
Old Man’s Cave
Named after the hermit Richard Rowe, who once called this cave home, Old Man’s Cave is a true gem of the Hocking Hills. This large recess cave boasts a series of ledges, waterfalls, and stunning rock formations that have captivated visitors for generations. Exploring the various levels and trails within Old Man’s Cave is a must-do for any Hocking Hills enthusiast.
Rock House
Unique among the Hocking Hills caves, Rock House offers a distinct experience. This cave features a large parking area and an all-dirt trail, providing easy access for visitors. The cave’s distinctive architecture, with its arched entryway and spacious interior, creates a one-of-a-kind setting for exploration and discovery.
Hiking Trails and Experiences
Longest Trail with Caves
The Ash Cave, Cedar Falls, and Old Man’s Cave trail is the longest in the Hocking Hills, spanning an estimated 16.6 km. This comprehensive route allows hikers to experience the park’s most iconic caves and natural features, offering a truly immersive adventure.
Cave Trail Network
Hocking Hills State Park boasts an impressive network of 12 cave trails, each with its own unique character and charm. These trails have earned an average 4.6-star rating from over 18,054 reviews, attesting to the exceptional quality of the hiking experience.
Elevation Gain
For those seeking a more challenging hike, the Old Man’s Cave Section 21-25 via Buckeye Trail offers the most significant elevation gain, with a total ascent of 332 m.
Accessibility
To ensure inclusivity, Hocking Hills State Park offers a wheelchair/stroller-accessible trail that runs from the Park/Camp office past the visitor center to Lodge Road, approximately half a mile long.
Park Information and Visitor Tips
Park Hours and Contact
Hocking Hills State Park is open year-round from dawn to dusk. For more information or to plan your visit, you can contact the park at 740-385-6841.
Park Size
Hocking Hills State Park covers an impressive area of 953 hectares, offering ample space for exploration and discovery.
Best Time to Visit
For the most breathtaking waterfall views, it’s recommended to visit Hocking Hills during the rainy season, when the cascades are at their most powerful and captivating.
Hiking Safety
Hikers are advised to stay on the marked trails and keep their pets on a leash (except at Conkle’s Hollow). Swimming or wading in the waterfalls and creeks is strictly prohibited.
Nearby Hiking Opportunities
In addition to the trails within Hocking Hills State Park, visitors can also explore hiking areas at Lake Hope State Park, Clear Creek Metro Park, and the Wayne National Forest, offering a wealth of outdoor adventures.
References
- https://www.alltrails.com/parks/us/ohio/hocking-hills-state-park/cave
- https://www.hockinghills.com/old_mans_cave.html
- https://www.explorehockinghills.com/blog/uncategorized/everything-you-want-to-know-about-hocking-hills-caves-and-waterfalls/
- https://thehockinghills.org/hiking.htm
- https://thehockinghills.org/Old_Mans_Cave.htm