More than 25 miles of hiking trails snake throughout Hocking Hills State Park, located near Logan, Ohio, approximately one hour south of the capital of Columbus in the south central section of the state. The trails vary from wheelchair-accessible asphalt paths to more rugged, unpaved walkways, each with differing scenic views, ranging from caves to meadows to cliff overhangs.
Identification
The Hocking Hills region is known for its wilderness appeal, with unique rock formations, cascading waterfalls and unique cave enclosures that provide a respite and a reminder of nature's peaceful, calming attributes. Of the 25 miles of hiking trails, most are centered on six specific regions--Old Man's Cave, Cedar Falls, Ash Cave, Conkle's Hollow, Cantwell Cliffs and Rock House, with the latter three situated in the northern part of the area and the former three on the southern edge of Hocking Hills. Additionally, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Buckeye Trail is a 6-mile stretch of path running through both Hocking Hills State Park and the adjacent state forest.
Old Man's Cave
Old Man's Cave is named after an early settler, Richard Rowe, who was killed by an accidental blast of his own gun. Legend states that Native Americans buried him somewhere within the confines of the cave, which is 1 mile long and requires approximately one hour to hike. The trail , which is lined with tall hemlocks, includes cliffs, waterfalls, massive rock formations and quaint bridges. Other highlights of the walk include the Devil's Bathtub, a pool of churning water that spills into a creek below, and the Sphinx Head, a rock formation that bears a resemblance to the Egyptian sphinx.
Ash Cave Trail
A wide, recess cave, Ash Cave includes an upper and lower trail, each approximately one-half mile long. The lower trail is wheelchair accessible, stretching along a paved path that ends in a sandy section of the cave, while the upper trail is a more rugged, natural route that requires anywhere from 45 to 60 minutes to complete. Highlights of the hike include Pulpit Rock, a rock formation where ministers in times past preached to their flocks during outdoor services.
Cedar Falls Trail
Cedar Falls requires approximately 45 minutes to hike along the length of its one-half mile trail. Massive hemlocks and rough cliffs line the expanse of this journey, giving one the feel of visiting an "enchanted forest." When crossing the bridge, look closely at the stream, and you may be able to make out the remains of an old grist mill once located at the top of the falls. Visitors often enjoy the company of the large snapping turtles that make their home in the pool beneath the waterfall.
Other Trails
Conkle's Hollow is a remote path featuring an upper trail and a handicap-accessible lower trail, with a seasonal waterfall at the end. The upper is 2.5 miles long and the lower path is 1 mile in length. The Rock House trail features rock steps and, in the summer, the feel of a jungle. Small caves and natural, "gothic-looking windows" dot the expansive rock face of this one half mile long trail. The Cantwell Cliffs hike meanders along a winding passageway with steep inclines, an intriguing rock shelter, and a large array of spring and summer wildflowers.
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