Ash Cave
Ash Cave stands out as one of the magnificent seven hiking areas within the Hocking Hills State Park system, which includes: Old Man's Cave, Rock House, Conkle's Hollow, Cedar Falls, Hemlock Bridge Trail leading to Whispering Cave, and Cantwell Cliffs. Each of these enchanting locations possesses its own distinct allure, providing visitors with a captivating experience as they traverse the winding paths.
From a hiker's perspective, Ash Cave is just one of those must-see trails in the park system. It has huge hemlocks, moss-covered rock formations, and the seasonal waterfall. This trail is great for those who have limited ability to get around. It has a concrete sidewalk-like walkway that leads back to the recess cave with a limited view of the waterfall. It's great for kids as far as having a huge beach-like sandpit to play in and it is an easy in and out with strollers.
From reviews: Much of the historical aspect of Ash Cave has been vandalized by nowaday rock carvers defacing the cave walls and rock formations within. There are illegal outlaw trails throughout and little to no presence of staff/law enforcement along the trails. It might feel a little sketchy as the stone steps are falling down as visitors make their way up to the top of the cave. The walkways are also littered with leaves and sand.
Dogs are welcome on this trail as long as they are on a 6-foot leash, well-behaved, and under the owner's control.
THE TRAIL: The trail stretches for roughly half a mile and offers a scenic journey that typically takes about 40 minutes to complete. Along the way, hikers can enjoy the beauty of nature as they navigate winding paths and lush surroundings, making for a refreshing outdoor experience.
Dogs are allowed on the trail to Ash Cave as long as they are on a 6-foot leash, they are well-behaved, and under the owner's control. Just a heads-up, there are wooden steps with grating which dogs may not like the feel on their paws.
THE TRAIL: The trail stretches for roughly half a mile and offers a scenic journey that typically takes about 40 minutes to complete. The walking path is concrete-based until reaching the cave so it can be used by wheelchairs although it is often cluttered with leaves and natural debris. Once at the cave, there is a sandy pit to the waterfall.
The Experience: While taking the path, there are huge hemlocks above and partway, there is a 70-foot waterfall and a sandy recess cave.
Length: The trail is approximately half a mile long and provides a scenic journey that usually takes around 40 minutes to complete. The path is primarily concrete until you reach the cave, making it accessible for wheelchairs, though you might encounter some leaves and natural debris along the way. Once you arrive at the cave, you'll find a sandy pit leading to the tall waterfall.
The trail, for those who travel by foot, transitions to a series of wooden steps designed with a grated bottom for safety. These steps will guide you back along the rim and with a right turn, take hikers back to the parking area.
Interesting things to look for:
Pulpit Rock, to the right and at the top as you enter the cave area, was used a spot for ministers to preach.
During the coldest times of the year, typically January and February, the waterfall has been known to freeze from top to bottom.
Ash Cave Map
