Looking for the best caves to visit in the Hocking Hills region? Visitors are spoiled for choice with a collection of remarkable natural shelters and geological formations. While the term "cave" is used broadly here to include recess caves and rock shelters, each location offers a unique and memorable experience.
Whether you are a casual explorer or an avid hiker, these caves offer memorable adventures in the heart of Ohio’s scenic landscape. Book your stay with Hocking Lodging and read on to find out where to explore when you get here.
1. Old Man's Cave
Photo Credit: Wendy van Overstreet
Named after Richard Rowe, a 19th-century hermit, Old Man’s Cave is a captivating recessed cave that has sheltered Native Americans and settlers alike. The Devil’s Bathtub, a swirling basin carved into Blackhand sandstone, and the Sphinx Head, resembling an Egyptian sphinx, are notable features.
The Grandma Gatewood Trail links Old Man’s Cave to Cedar Falls and Ash Cave, offering extended hiking trails. Eagle Rock, resembling an eagle’s head, and Upper Falls and Lower Falls add to the natural wonders along the trail, making Old Man’s Cave a must-visit in Hocking Hills State Park.
2. Ash Cave
Photo Credit: arthurgphotography
Ash Cave, the largest recessed cave in Ohio, spans 700 feet wide with a depth of 100 feet and a height of 90 feet, showcasing nature's grandeur. The easy Grandma Gatewood Trail leads visitors of all ages through scenic surroundings to this impressive cave. A seasonal Hocking waterfall adds to the magical atmosphere of the sandstone ledge.
Hiking to Ash Cave offers a peaceful journey filled with natural sounds and beauty. It’s an ideal spot for families or anyone seeking a serene outdoor experience in Hocking Hills.
3. Whispering Cave
Photo Credit: Richard345
Whispering Cave is the perfect destination for a more challenging adventure. With an elevation gain of 400 feet, this Hocking County hike will test your endurance and determination. Steep with uneven steps and cliff edges, the trail adds to the journey’s thrill. Though strenuous, the hike rewards the effort well.
Whispering Cave is named for its unique acoustic properties. Certain spots inside the cave create a ‘whispering gallery’ effect, where even the softest murmurs are heard clearly across the space. This natural phenomenon makes Whispering Cave a fascinating and fun stop for visitors of all ages,
4. Rock House Cavern
Photo Credit: Kenneth Keifer
Rock House Cavern in Hocking Hills State Park stands out as a unique geological marvel in the Hocking region. Shaped by water erosion over millennia, the Blackhand sandstone cave is a structure unlike any other. The cave features a triangular entrance located 75 feet up a cliff, a roof height of 25 feet, and rock walls extending 200 feet. Its grand entrance invites you to explore the wonders within. The rocks surrounding the area add to its natural beauty, making it a popular spot for rock climbing.
Natural light streams through several arched openings, creating an ethereal ambiance highlighting the cave’s formations. These windows, formed by water erosion, are strategically situated at significant joints in the rock, adding to the cave’s unique character. As you wander through the cave, you’ll be captivated by the play of light and shadow, enhancing your appreciation for this natural wonder.
5. Cantwell Cliffs
Photo Credit: Richard345
Though not technically a cave in the traditional sense, Cantwell Cliffs promises both beauty and adventure. The trail here is challenging, with rocky surfaces, steep stairs, and narrow, cave-like passageways. Navigating the trail rewards you with stunning views of dramatic geological formations, including high cliffs and deep valleys. This area offers spectacular sights at every turn, making it a visual feast for hikers, particularly in the spring.
One of the most distinctive features of Cantwell Cliffs is Turtle Rock, a formation that resembles a turtle, showcasing the characteristic Blackhand sandstone shaped by erosion. This whimsical rock formation adds an element of fun and curiosity to your hike. Combining deep valleys and high cliffs, Cantwell Cliffs is an adventurous destination that tests your hiking skills and rewards you with breathtaking vistas.
6. Conkle's Hollow
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Photo Credit: Kenneth Keifer
Conkle’s Hollow features two main trails catering to hikers of different abilities. The Lower Trail is a 3/4-mile short hike that is wheelchair accessible and suitable for visitors of all ages. It offers an easy route with stunning views, surrounded by steep cliffs of the gorge and lush vegetation that create a serene and inviting atmosphere. This trail allows everyone to enjoy the beauty of Conkle’s Hollow.
For those seeking a more challenging hike, the Upper Trail at Conkle’s Hollow provides an exhilarating experience. Stretching 2 miles, this trail features a moderate to steep incline that tests your endurance.
The effort is well rewarded with breathtaking views, especially during the autumn months when the foliage transforms into vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. You'll also be able to spot small, though inaccessible, recessed caves high on the cliff walls.
Tips for Visiting Hocking Hills Caves
Proper preparation is key to enjoying your visit to Hocking Hills' many caves. Follow our tips below to enjoy your visit to these natural wonders.
- Wear proper footwear as trails can be slippery and uneven.
- Stay on marked trails to ensure safety and protect the environment.
- Avoid swimming or wading in waterfalls and creeks; enjoy from a distance.
- Visit during weekdays and early hours to avoid crowds and enjoy tranquility.
- Bring water, snacks, and check for restroom availability before hiking.
Stay Near Hocking Hills' Best Caves
Exploring the caves of Hocking Hills is an unforgettable experience that offers a blend of natural beauty, adventure, and history. From the historical significance of Old Man’s Cave to the acoustic wonders of Whispering Cave, each location has its unique charm. Ash Cave impresses with its size, Rock House with its unique geological features, Cantwell Cliffs with its dramatic landscape, and Conkle’s Hollow with its accessible beauty.
So book your stay with Hocking Lodging Company, lace up your hiking boots, and embark on an adventure that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.