Old Man's Cave
Old Man's 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: Cliffs and waterfalls and towering hemlocks line the trail. Huge rock formations are never more than a stone's throw away and awesome bridges will take your breath away. Make sure you stay on the trail. Years of illegal off-trail hiking has nearly destroyed the flora and fauna once present in the recess cave. As always, cliff areas are not safe for pets and children!
Dogs are allowed on this trail on leash.
Interesting things to look for: Old Man's Cave was aptly named for an early settler who set up living quarters in one of the many recess caves in the area and died there. He was buried by trappers somewhere near the entrance of the Cave.
Devil's Bathtub-a churning tub of water spilling into the creek below.
Sphinx Head-at the far end of the trail past Old Man's Cave, a rock formation takes the form of a sphinx head.
Length: One-way loop trail - 1 to 1.5 miles long and begins at the kiosk at Upper Falls. Hikers have a choice of 2 exits:
Exit 1—At Old Man’s Cave (ending at the Naturalist Cabin and Visitor Center.) The trail is 1 mile and takes about 60 minutes.
Exit 2— Past Old Man’s Cave to Lower Falls which ends at the Naturalist Cabin and Visitor Center. 1.5 miles and takes about 1.5 hours.
Old Man's Cave Map
