Travelers who have a heart for unexpected surprises during their journeys are often thrilled by a trip to Hocking Hills, Ohio. Within the lush and dynamic terrain that beckons visitors to lace up their boots and hit the many trails, Hocking Hills is home to a number of hidden away caverns that each come with a story to tell. When you’re looking for an adventure of a truly unique type, consider spelunking in Ohio for a vacation you won’t soon forget. Here are a few of the must-see underground wonders along the way.
Day 1: Ash Cave
While caving at its core is an off the beaten path adventure, there’s nothing wrong with starting your journey with the most impressive and perhaps best-known of the Ohio caves in Hocking Hills. Ash Cave is the largest recess in Hocking Hills and is situated in the pristine Hocking Hills State Park. Boasting dimensions of 100 feet deep and 700 feet wide, Ash Cave is a place that puts everything into perspective and makes for some amazing photographs as well. A quarter of a mile trail lined with towering trees and wildflowers leads the way to Ash Cave which sits near the southeastern portion of the park.
Hocking Hills State Park
19852 OH-664
Logan, OH 43138
740-385-6842
Day 2: Rock House Cave
A return or two to Hocking Hills State Park is well worth the effort when it comes to spelunking in Ohio. An afternoon spent at Rock House Cave is sure to be an inspiring event. This Ohio cave in Hocking Hills is very much reminiscent of a tunnel which is carved out of Blackhand Sandstone. Rock House Cave sits in the very middle of a cliff that rises 150 feet into the air and boasts dimensions that include ceilings 25 feet high. Guests can wander along the main corridor which runs 200-feet in length with a width of about 30 feet. Rock House Cave has long been a popular place to visit as it is considered some of nature’s finest work in the area with touches of gothic-inspired spires that make for a breathtaking sight.
Hocking Hills State Park
19852 OH-664
Logan, OH 43138
740-385-6842
Day 3: Old Man’s Cave
When you can’t imagine a caving experience that doesn’t include a cascade or two, be sure to head to Old Man’s Cave. A scenic trail leads the way to this destination that comes with plenty of history. The cave is named for the man that not only called this place his home during his lifetime but now calls it his final resting place. As an added benefit, it’s a mere 6-mile trek from Old Man’s Cave to Ash Cave, meaning if you’re looking to enjoy a return trip, it can all be done again with ease.
Hocking Hills State Park
19852 OH-664
Logan, OH 43138
740-385-6842
Nearby Attractions and Activities to Enjoy
While caving in Hocking Hills is as thrilling as it is memorable, those that head this direction to discover the underground wonders that await will also find that the region has much more to offer up in the way of fun! You don’t have to venture far from the caves to find additional landmarks and activities well worth exploring and enjoying while you’re here. For the travelers that can’t wait to expand on their already brimming over itineraries, the following are a few stops that are worth checking out once cave exploration comes to an end.
Rose Lake
Situated just off OH-664 near Logan, those that have spent the day exploring Old Man’s Cave will find that Rose Lake is easily accessible by the same trail and doesn’t take long to reach. When you’re up for even more outdoor adventure, this is a wonderful reservoir to drop by and settle in for a picnic lunch, get out on the waves by canoe or kayak or simply savor the view for a while. Surrounded by lush foliage, Rose Lake is a fantastic place to put photography skills to the test. Sometimes referred to as Fisherman’s Lake, this destination is also well suited to the traveler that likes to cast a line.
Cedar Falls
Continuing on the trails from Rose Lake, visitors to Hocking Hills State Park can easily have the outdoor adventure continue by heading towards scenic Cedar Falls. Those with a passion for pursuing cascades will find these falls thrilling and a place you might end up lingering longer than you originally planned for. Flowing over an impressive rock face, Cedar Falls includes opportunities to view and admire natural grottos as well as a shallow pool at the bottom of the falls. Take time to view the cascade from various angles explore the surrounding terrain and don’t forget your camera for this one!
Hocking Hills Winery
Located at 30402 Freeman Road in Logan, Hocking Hills Winery is a wonderful and palate-pleasing follow up to a day of fun in the great outdoors. Known and loved as the region’s gathering place, Hocking Hills Winery is a family-owned establishment that welcomes visitors to come and make the most of a tasting session with friends. Enjoy savoring the flavors of the region while learning more about the wine-making process. If you happen to stop by on an evening where live musical entertainment is in the lineup—even better!
Enjoy Spelunking in Ohio
While the many caves to explore in Ohio are sure to inspire, there’s something magical about time spent caving in Hocking Hills. After a day of exploration, make sure you’ve booked a rental that keeps you close to the next day’s adventures. Buffalo Cabins and Lodges has the convenient cabin you’ve been looking for! Contact us today for more information on our many options.