The Hocking Hills Visitor Center, located at the Old Man’s Cave parking lot off State Route 664, is a gateway to the breathtaking natural beauty of the Hocking Hills region in Ohio. This visitor center serves as a hub for exploring the iconic Old Man’s Cave, a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Visitor Center: Your Starting Point
The Hocking Hills Visitor Center is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, providing a wealth of information and resources to help you make the most of your visit. With interactive displays, exhibits, and wildlife showcases, the center offers a comprehensive introduction to the Hocking Hills region, its history, and the diverse ecosystems that call this area home.
Old Man’s Cave: A Geological Masterpiece
Old Man’s Cave, the crown jewel of the Hocking Hills, is a geological marvel that has captivated visitors for generations. Located at the GPS coordinates (39.437176, -82.539667), this strenuous trail offers a unique and challenging hiking experience, with waterfalls, cliffs, and breathtaking vistas around every turn.
Trail Details
- Length: Approximately 1 to 1.5 miles long
- Difficulty: Strenuous, with steep inclines and uneven terrain
- Exits:
- Exit 1: Ends at the Naturalist Cabin and Visitor Center, 1 mile, 60 minutes
- Exit 2: Past Old Man’s Cave to Lower Falls, 1.5 miles, 1.5 hours
- Spur Trails: Broken Rock Falls, Cedar Falls, and Ash Cave
Accommodations
For those seeking a more immersive experience, the Hocking Hills region offers a variety of cabin rentals within a few miles of the Visitor Center. These cozy accommodations provide the perfect base for exploring the area’s natural wonders.
Events and Programs
The Hocking Hills Visitor Center and Old Man’s Cave offer a variety of events and programs throughout the year, catering to visitors of all ages and interests. Join a guided hike through Old Man’s Cave every Tuesday at 10 am to celebrate 75 years of parks and 100 years of Hocking Hills public trails. Additionally, the center hosts wildlife programs, such as “Marvelous Mammals,” free of charge.
Accessibility and Safety
The Hocking Hills Visitor Center and Old Man’s Cave strive to be accessible to all visitors. A half-mile wheelchair-accessible trail runs from the Park/Camp office past the visitor center to Lodge Road, including a ramp and observation deck at Upper Falls.
While exploring the trails, it’s essential to follow safety precautions. Hikers must remain on the marked trails, and pets are permitted on a leash but not recommended due to the presence of cliffs. Proper footwear and caution are advised, especially during the winter months when trail conditions can be more challenging.
Nearby Attractions
In addition to the Hocking Hills Visitor Center and Old Man’s Cave, the area offers a wealth of other attractions to explore. Just 1.4 miles from Old Man’s Cave, you’ll find the Hocking Hills Winery, a popular destination for wine enthusiasts. The Hocking Hills Regional Welcome Center, located 1.3 miles from Old Man’s Cave, is another must-visit spot for planning your Hocking Hills adventure.
History and Significance
The name “Old Man’s Cave” is derived from the story of Richard Rowe, a hermit who lived in the cave in the early 19th century. However, the area has a much longer history, having been inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Adena, Wyandot, Delaware, and Shawnee.
Hocking Hills State Park: A Natural Wonderland
The Hocking Hills Visitor Center and Old Man’s Cave are just a small part of the larger Hocking Hills State Park, which boasts seven major hiking areas, including Ash Cave, Rock House, Conkle’s Hollow, Cedar Falls, Cantwell Cliffs, and Whispering Cave. For the adventurous, the park also offers mountain biking trails, such as the Purple Trail Loop and Orange Trail Loop.
Whether you’re seeking a challenging hike, a peaceful picnic, or a chance to immerse yourself in the region’s rich history and natural beauty, the Hocking Hills Visitor Center and Old Man’s Cave are must-visit destinations in Ohio’s stunning Hocking Hills.