Ash Cave is one of the many hiking trails located in Hocking Hills State Park, located outside of Logan, Ohio. If you’re headed there, be sure to put this cave on your must visit list.
Over time, layers of softer sandstone have eroded away underneath the upper layers creating an amazing recess cave that measures 700 feet long and 100 feet deep.
There’s also a beautiful 90 foot waterfall spilling over from the top ledge of the cave. Keep in mind, this waterfall’s volume is very dependent upon recent rainfall.
Even on days when the water is well above a trickle, the major draw is the sheer height of the falls.
There are two trails you can take to get to the stunning Ash Cave – the gorge trail and the rim trail.
The gorge trail is an easy short 0.25 mile walk along a paved path through a tree lined hollow leading to the cave and falls. As you stroll along the pathway, you’ll parallel a small stream and be see plenty of wild flowers, ferns and moss.
The paving stops at the entrance to the cave, the floor of which is covered in sandy erosion of the soft sandstone rock.
The gorge trail is one of the most wheelchair accessible trails in Hocking Hills State Park. However, do keep in mind the paving stops before actually entering the cave.
The rim trail is longer at 0.50 miles and while not a strenuous hike, it is a bit more challenging than the gorge trail. The trail gains elevation to get to the rim, follows the edge of horseshoe shaped cliffs and then descends back to the gorge floor.
If you start the rim trail to the right, the elevation gain is a bit more gentle. Starting to the left, you will ascend faster but have steep wooden steps to deal with.
Near the top of the waterfall there are more steps to drop down into the gorge from the rim to see the base of the magnificent waterfall.
Our favorite route is to access the cave and falls via the gorge trail. The gorge is full of beautiful ferns, wildflowers and views of sheer cliffs.
After spending some time in the cave, follow the trail and stairs behind the falls to ascend to the top and then hike out the rim trail.
There are some fun annual events that take place at Ash Cave.
Christmas in Ash Cave occurs each December and includes family friendly activities such as visting Santa, enjoying hot chocolate and cookies around a campfire or making a small craft.
The Sweethearts Hike takes place around Valentine’s Day each year. Stroll hand in hand along the lantern lit path with your Valentine, while learning about the history of the cave from a naturalist. Then snuggle up next to your honey around a campfire,
Be sure to keep an eye on ODNR’s Hocking Hills page to find out event dates.
The address for Ash Cave is: 26400 State Route 56.
Is Ash Cave pet friendly?
Yes, you may bring your dog with you. Pets must be on a leash 6′ or shorter.
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