Discover the beauty of Old Man’s Cave in Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio — a must-see gorge hike filled with waterfalls, caves, and forest views.

An Ohio Hiking Staple

Our next adventure in southeast Ohio took us to a true Buckeye State classic — Old Man’s Cave in Hocking Hills State Park.

For those who haven’t visited, Hocking Hills is the premier destination for hiking in Ohio. The park offers several different trailheads, each with its own personality and stunning scenery. But the crown jewel — and the most popular — is Old Man’s Cave.

The Hike Begins

We arrived at the Old Man’s Cave parking lot around noon on a regular Monday — no holiday, no special event — and it was still packed. To be fair, I’ve seen it busier, but for a Monday afternoon it was impressive how many people were already there.

Despite the crowds, my excitement didn’t fade. The trail begins with a descent into the gorge, surrounded by towering trees and ancient rock outcroppings that make you wonder if you’re even still in Ohio. As you move deeper into the gorge, the sunlight fades, the air cools, and the forest floor gives way to sand and stone. Looking back up from below, you can see the sunlight filtering through the canopy, painting the gorge in an otherworldly glow.

Unfortunately, at the time of writing, Ohio was in the middle of a drought, so the famous waterfall was little more than a trickle. Still, the landscape was as captivating as ever.

The Legend Behind the Name

Old Man’s Cave earned its name from a hermit named Richard Rowe, who lived in the gorge during the 1800s. He spent most of his life in the area and was eventually buried beneath the ledge of the main recess cave. When I was a kid hiking here for the first time, I remember being slightly creeped out knowing that an old hermit once lived in the same caves I was exploring. I used to imagine strangers watching me from the shadows of the forest and the dark recesses of the rock walls. Of course, the place is anything but creepy — it’s absolutely breathtaking. It turns out most of Ohio agrees, because this is easily the most heavily trafficked part of Hocking Hills for a reason.

Trail Options and Terrain

Once you reach the bottom, several trails branch off, each offering its own experience. We chose the Upper Falls Loop, a one-way trail that’s about a mile long but full of elevation changes and varied terrain. I had hoped to visit the Lower Falls, but given the drought, I decided to save that sight for a future trip when the water is flowing again.

Even without the waterfall, the caves and stone bridges made the hike feel like a real adventure. You pass under massive rock formations, through narrow tunnels, and over arched stone bridges. Hocking Hills truly feels like stepping through a portal into another world — or at least another state.

Unlike many other Ohio parks where trails are smooth, flat, and predictable, Hocking Hills keeps you guessing. The terrain constantly shifts from lush forest to craggy cliffs to shadowy tunnels and bright, open waterfalls. The elevation changes make for a fun challenge — enough to make you sweat, but not so much that it feels impossible.

Post-Hike Rewards

After finishing our hike, we were more than ready for food. Luckily, just five minutes from the trailhead sits the Hocking Hills Lodge and Conference Center, home to the Rock House Restaurant. The food was delicious, though a bit pricey — no surprise for a state park lodge — but the real treat was eating on the balcony overlooking the forest. Good food, a cool breeze, and a view of the trees stretching endlessly in every direction made for the perfect end to the afternoon.

After lunch, we made a quick stop at the gift shop — a little tradition we’ve developed on our adventures — to grab a souvenir before heading home.

Final Thoughts

Old Man’s Cave never disappoints. I’ve been hiking here since I was a kid, and I still find something new to appreciate every time. The scenery, the sense of adventure, and the perfect balance of challenge and accessibility make it a must-visit spot for any Ohio hiker.

And if you happen to arrive when the parking lot is full (which is often), don’t worry — Hocking Hills State Park offers plenty of nearby trails that are just as spectacular. Whether it’s your first hike or your fiftieth, Old Man’s Cave will always remind you why Hocking Hills is the heart of Ohio hiking.

If You Go: Quick Tips for Visiting Old Man’s Cave

If you’re planning a trip to Old Man’s Cave, here are a few quick tips to make your visit smoother and more enjoyable:

• Arrive early (or late): Parking fills up quickly, even on weekdays. Aim for early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds.
  
• Go midweek: Weekends can get packed. A Tuesday or Wednesday visit gives you more breathing room on the trails.
  
• Bring water and good shoes: The trails involve elevation changes, slick rock, and stairs — sturdy footwear makes a big difference.
  
• Check the weather: Waterfalls and streams are much more active after a few days of rain. If it’s been dry, expect lighter flow but easier footing.
  
• Stay nearby: There are plenty of cabins, lodges, and campgrounds around Hocking Hills if you want to explore more than one trail system.
  
• Don’t rush it: The main loop is only about a mile, but it’s worth taking your time to explore the side paths and enjoy the scenery.

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