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Old Man's Cave Loop

Logan, Ohio

4.5/5
based on 8 reviews

Details

Distance

0.63 miles

Elevation Gain

102 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Elyse Clark

A popular hike through the gorge leading to waterfalls and a sandstone cave.

Take the Rim Trail in Hocking Hills State Park, which descends into the deep gorge and takes you alongside a stream as you head towards a number of cascades and interesting rock faces.

Rim Trail can be linked to Cedar Falls, as well, or from the Upper Falls you can take Grandma Gatewood Trail for a 6 miles trail through the park. This is the site of the annual Hocking Winter Hike in January, which can see as many as 5,500 people on the trail.

Keep en eye out for the detour to Lower Falls as well, it's worth it.

Camping and lodging are also available nearby.

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Features

Photography
Hiking
Bathrooms
Easy Parking
Food Nearby
Forest
Waterfall

Old Man's Cave Loop Reviews

It’s not fun for all

Old Man Cave is one of the best and most well known hikes in the beautiful Hocking Hills State Park; a must see if you're in the area! The falls and Cave are a family friendly hike, but be sure to wear the right shoes as it can be a bit slippery in spots! The rock formations are huge and unique, especially in Ohio. I especially love going in Autumn when the beautiful fall colors are coming out. It can be a bit crowded, so an earlier start might be the way to go!

This is hands-down the best viewpoint/hike in Hocking Hills State Park. The trail is short, well-marked, well-maintained and doable for all ages/skill levels. Old Man’s Cave is absolutely beautiful and features lush plant species against a warm rocky backdrop. I recommend you bring plenty of water and wear shoes with good tread as the dew from the waterfall can make the trail slippery at times.

Hocking Hills is an amazing state park and this is my favorite trail! Old Man's Cave is breathtaking, and a must see spot. The trail can get crowded during peak season though, so plan accordingly.

GUYS. Listen...if you want to be blown away by a state park...go here.

I've been here MANY times throughout my life, and it's definitely a place to visit in Ohio. I recommend going early in the morning before the crowds arrive. I got here at about 7 am yesterday and I was the only one there. It completely changes your perspective of the place when you go and there isn't anyone there.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Hike & Camp in Hocking Hills, Ohio

Hike to Rose Lake

Old Man's Cave and Ash Cave via Buckeye Trail

Upper Falls Hocking Hills State Park

Lower Falls Loop via Buckeye Trail

Hike to Whispering Cave