Hike to Rose Lake
Hocking Hills Visitor Center - Search Nearby - Added by Dan Barr
Old Man's Cave is the main attraction of the Hocking Hills, but hike just a bit farther and you'll uncover Rose Lake, a man-made beauty amongst the hills.
Starting at the main parking lot for Old Man's Cave and the Hocking Hills, follow the Gorge Overlook Trail from the Visitor's Center, staying on top of the rim. About 0.1 mile from the Visitor Center, you'll cross over the gorge on a large trussed bridge. Once across, follow the signs that direct towards Cedar Falls. Posts with an inset red strip routered into the top of them mark the trail.
From here, follow the trail for 1.5 miles through relatively level terrain with a few elevation gains, the largest being up the hill that forms part of the dam for Rose Lake.
The lake's actually officially known as the Hocking Hills Reservoir, but locals named it Rose Lake after the hollow which the lake now fills. Locals also claim the lake is haunted, which only adds to the atmosphere of a late autumn visit.
Rose Lake is definitely a worthy part of any Hocking Hills visit, and considering the time needed to visit it, is easily paired with nearby Old Man's Cave.
3 Miles RT
150 ft Gain
Out-and-Back
Hiking
Nearby Lodging
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
