Ash Cave
Ash Cave is one of the 7 hiking areas of Hocking Hills State Park system- Old Man's Cave, Ash Cave, Rock House, Conkle's Hollow, Cedar Falls, Hemlock Bridge Trail to Whispering Cave, and Cantwell Cliffs. Each of the park areas offers a unique experience for those who walk its paths. From hemlock-lined trails, to huge rock formation, waterfalls to rock bridges, guests to the park are sure to treasure their explorations for years to come. Rich in forested areas and natural wonders, there are over 25 miles of hiking trails in the Hocking Hills State Park system. All feature one-way looped trail systems for safety; hikers cannot turn around and go against the flow, and must follow one-way signs.
The Look: Towering hemlocks, a cascading waterfall and a wide recess cave make Ash Cave one of Hocking Hills State Park's most popular hiking trails. An added bonus is that the part of the trail leading to the cave is asphalt and easily accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
Dogs are allowed on this trail on leash.
Length: Start at Parking Area. End at Parking Area. One-way trail system. Hikers trek a wheelchair-accessible, asphalt trail through a gorge with hemlocks and cliff walls. Halfway, hikers come upon a recess cave with a seasonal waterfall. Hikers (barring wheelchair-users) continue on the one-way trail system and up a series of steps which leads back along the rim to the parking lot.
Interesting things to look for: As you enter the recess cave, look for the huge rock formation on the opposite side of the creek. This is known as Pulpet Rock and was once used as a "preaching pulpet" for ministers of area churches having services in the cave. In the winter, the waterfall has been known to freeze from top to bottom!
Ash Cave Map
