The Hocking Hills area draws in travelers from near and far who are seeking an outdoor adventure that provides scenic beauty unlike anywhere else. While there is a multitude of destinations within Hocking Hills to explore and discover, there’s something special about Old Man’s Cave. This particular destination is well-loved for its diverse landscapes, incredible hiking paths and mesmerizing natural features that never cease to captivate the imagination of outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.
A Dynamic Destination
Prepared to be impressed when you decide to spend a day exploring Old Man’s Cave in Hocking Hills. The name itself refers to a gorge recess that housed many of the Rowe brothers in the 1700’s when they made their way to southeastern Ohio from Tennessee to set up a trading post. All three brothers were buried in or near the cave’s main entrance making this area a memorial to their memory as well as an incredible place to visit. The cave is a popular destination for visitors, but it’s part of a larger area that’s renowned for amazing hiking and opportunities to encounter beautiful landforms.
Whispering Cave Trail | Old Man’s Cave | Waterfall Cabin
Hike and Explore Old Man’s Cave in Hocking Hills
Old Man’s Cave in Hocking Hills is located just off of State Route 664 and is split into five definable areas that are perfect for a day of outdoor exploration. Whether guests decide to explore the Upper Falls, Upper Gorge, Middle Falls, Lower Falls or Lower Gorge, they’re sure to be entranced by this area’s unending beauty. The trail follows Old Man’s Creek and winds through impressive walls of Blackhand Sandstone making for a dramatic backdrop to a hike. The effects of the waterways and erosion on these walls give hikers an amazing look at the changes in the earth over the course of history. Continuing on, hikers get a close up look at waterfalls cascading over these gorge rocks. Impressive and thrilling, cascade seekers will find themselves returning time and again to this scenic destination. The gorge can be followed for approximately half a mile, making this trek moderately difficult but not impossible for less experienced hikers. Those who appreciate a peaceful wander along the trail will want to arrive early in the morning as this destination is popular with locals and tourists and tends to get crowded by mid-afternoon.
Things to Do Nearby
While a visit to Old Man’s Cave in Hocking Hills is sure to be an inspiring experience, Hocking Hills is known for its dynamic terrain and there’s much more nearby to see, enjoy and explore! When you’re ready to lace up and continue looking for those one-of-a-kind landmark destinations, there are plenty to choose from. Be sure to add the following when you’re looking to round out your itinerary that’s surely already packed with fun and adventure.
Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve
This conveniently located stop couldn’t be easier to access if you already find yourself within the greater Hocking Hills State Park. Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve shares the same ground as the infamous Hocking Hills State Park and provides guests with a place to come and enjoy the sight of one of the deepest gorges in the state of Ohio. Beautiful scenery surrounds the gorge making it a popular place amongst those visitors that enjoy photography. Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve is a wonderful place to visit no matter what time of year you find yourself in Hocking Hills. If you plan on hiking the trail up the gorge instead of simply viewing it, be sure you’re dressed in the appropriate clothing as this trail is known as a very challenging trek.
Ash Cave
While Old Man’s Cave has a reputation for intrigue and beauty that’s hard to ignore, nearby Ash Cave is a must-visit locale in light of the fact that it’s considered Hocking Hill’s largest! Ash Cave is located in the southern portion of Hocking Hills and captivates visitors with the sheer size of its recess. In addition to taking time to photograph this natural wonder, Ash Cave proves to be a scenic stop as it’s surrounded by beech and hemlock trees alike. Come and continue on with hiking adventures or simply sit back and take in the stunning view.
Attractions Nearby
If you’re a traveler with a taste for adventure and a heart for history, consider heading over to nearby Rock House for some time spent admiring some of mother nature’s best work. There are some that would argue Rock House is the most authentic of all the Hocking Hills caves. Visitors are pulled in by the captivating Blackhand sandstone that makes up this area and legend has it that once upon a time, this dynamic destination was a headquarters for some of the area’s most notorious bootleggers and robbers.
Explore Old Man’s Cave and Stay in Style
Once you’ve made the most of your time at Old Man’s Cave, be sure you’re returning to a home away from home in the Hocking Hills that keeps you comfortable. The team at Buffalo Cabins and Lodges is happy to book you into stunning Old Man’s cave cabin rentals that keeps you close to the hiking trails you long to explore while providing luxurious features to take your trip over the top. Contact us today to start planning your trip and to learn about our wonderful 7 bedroom rentals.
Rent one of our fantastic cabin rentals by a pond here and enjoy some extra time by the water!