Hocking Hills Waterfalls: Cedar Falls, Ash Cave, Old Man’s Cave and What to Expect at Each
Ohio’s Hocking Hills waterfalls are known for their dramatic landscapes, scenic hiking trails, and awe-inspiring beauty. For outdoor enthusiasts and those who cherish time spent in nature, Hocking Hills waterfalls offer the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the best Hocking Hills waterfalls, perfect for planning your next outdoor escape.
Hocking Hills Waterfalls: Cedar Falls, Ash Cave, Old Man’s Cave and What to Expect at Each
Ohio’s Hocking Hills waterfalls are known for their dramatic landscapes, scenic hiking trails, and awe-inspiring beauty. For outdoor enthusiasts and those who cherish time spent in nature, Hocking Hills waterfalls offer the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the best Hocking Hills waterfalls, perfect for planning your next outdoor escape.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Hocking Hills has five major waterfall destinations. They’re all within the state park system, all within 30 minutes of Laurelville, and each one is different enough that visiting one doesn’t make the others redundant.
Cedar Falls hits hardest after rain — it’s the biggest flow in the park and worth timing around wet weather if you can. Old Man’s Cave has the most dramatic gorge setting. Ash Cave is the most accessible and still manages to be impressive. Cantwell Cliffs takes the most effort to reach and has the fewest crowds. Rock House isn’t a waterfall destination exactly, but the cave itself changes what you expect from sandstone.
Here’s what to know about each one before you go — distances measured from Notestone Reserve at 14580 Notestone Road, Laurelville.
Top Hocking Hills Waterfalls
The waterfalls of Hocking Hills offer unique experiences, each with its own beauty and charm. Below is a guide to the best waterfalls in the region.
Old Man’s Cave Waterfall
Old Man’s Cave — 11 miles · 20 min from Notestone
The most visited site in Ohio’s state park system. That’s both its draw and its problem — on a summer Saturday morning the parking lot is full by 9am and the lower gorge trail feels like a line at a theme park. Go early or go on a Tuesday.
The gorge itself earns the crowds. Water carved these sandstone walls over millions of years and the result is something that reads as genuinely ancient — overhanging cliffs, deep pools, a cave recess the size of a small building. The lower loop is 1.5 miles. The full Grandma Gatewood Trail runs 6 miles one-way to Cedar Falls if you want to connect both in a day.
The Hocking Hills waterfalls at Old Man’s Cave are a key feature of the area, with water cascading through the gorge in a series of smaller falls that merge to create a powerful flow. Surrounded by towering cliffs draped in moss and ferns, the Hocking Hills waterfalls offer a serene yet majestic setting. These waterfalls are a favorite spot for nature photographers, as the surrounding greenery and the play of light and shadow throughout the gorge create captivating scenes from every angle.
For those who love hiking, Old Man’s Cave provides several trails that wind through the gorge, offering multiple vantage points of the waterfalls. The trails vary in difficulty, making the site accessible to both casual walkers and avid hikers. Along the way, visitors pass beneath overhanging cliffs, cross narrow bridges, and encounter deep pools formed by the constant flow of water, creating a peaceful atmosphere. These scenic spots invite hikers to pause and enjoy the tranquil sounds of nature.
In addition to its waterfalls, Old Man’s Cave boasts a fascinating geological history. The gorge was carved out of Blackhand sandstone, a formation over 300 million years old. The erosion that shaped the cave and its waterfalls offers a glimpse into the region’s ancient past, providing a deeper appreciation for the natural landscape.
Whether for its picturesque waterfalls, rich history, or peaceful hiking trails, Old Man’s Cave remains a favorite destination for nature lovers and those seeking a retreat into the outdoors.
Cedar Falls
Cedar Falls — 13 miles · 23 min from Notestone
This is the one to see after rain. Cedar Falls runs off the Queer Creek watershed and the volume difference between a dry week and two days after a good storm is significant — it goes from photogenic to genuinely loud. The trail is about 2.4 miles round-trip, moderate difficulty, well-maintained. The Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls is right there if you want to turn it into a dinner evening — Kindred Spirits books out on weekends, so call ahead.
Best in: spring for peak flow, winter for ice formations. Least impressive in: late summer dry spells.
For those planning to spend more time in the area, Cedar Falls provides an excellent spot for a family outing. There are several shaded areas and picnic spots near the Hocking Hills waterfall, perfect for enjoying a peaceful meal surrounded by nature. The cool mist from the waterfall offers a refreshing reprieve on warm days, making it a great place to relax and unwind.
The surrounding area also offers additional activities for families and nature lovers. Several nearby trails wind through the forest and along the river, providing opportunities to explore the diverse landscape. These trails are flat and easy to navigate, making them suitable for young children and older adults alike. Whether you’re there for a brief stop or a longer visit, Cedar Falls offers both the scenic beauty and recreational options to create a memorable experience for all who visit.
Ash Cave Falls
Ash Cave — 16 miles · 28 min from Notestone
Ohio’s largest recess cave. The waterfall here is a trickle compared to Cedar Falls — what Ash Cave is actually about is the cave itself, a horseshoe-shaped overhang with 90-foot walls that creates its own microclimate. You feel the temperature drop before you see the cave.
The trail is 0.25 miles, paved, and wheelchair accessible. It’s the most family-friendly trail in the park and still delivers. Come early on summer weekends — the parking lot fills by 10am.
The hike to Ash Cave Falls is one of the most accessible trails in Hocking Hills, making it ideal for visitors of all ages and abilities. The flat, paved path is even wheelchair accessible, allowing everyone to experience the beauty of this iconic Hocking Hills waterfall up close. As you walk along the trail, you’ll be enveloped by the surrounding forest, and the sound of the waterfall gradually grows louder as you approach the cave. Once you reach the mouth of Ash Cave, the sight of the waterfall trickling down from the high cliff above is a breathtaking reward. Visitors can stand beneath the towering rock shelter, where the cool mist from the Hocking Hills waterfall offers a refreshing escape from the heat on warmer days.
The Ash Cave Gorge Trail offers the perfect hiking experience for all skill levels. This short, easy trail winds through a lush, shaded forest before opening up to the awe-inspiring expanse of Ash Cave. Along the way, interpretive signs provide insights into the geology, history, and natural features of the area, adding an educational element to the hike. The gentle nature of the trail makes it ideal for families, casual hikers, or anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful walk through the forest. At the end of the trail, standing in the shadow of Ohio’s largest recess cave with the Hocking Hills waterfall gently cascading down, visitors are sure to appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility that Ash Cave Falls has to offer.
Cantwell Cliffs Waterfall
Cantwell Cliffs — 6.7 miles · 15 min from Notestone
The closest major trail to Notestone and the one most guests haven’t heard of. The waterfall is smaller than Cedar Falls or Ash Cave — that’s not the point. The point is the gorge narrows at the bottom to passages you turn sideways to fit through, and the rim trail gives you elevated views of the canopy that Old Man’s Cave can’t match from the gorge floor.
About 2.6 miles, moderate. Significantly less crowded than anything in the Old Man’s Cave cluster.
The trail to Cantwell Cliffs is among the most challenging in the park, making it a perfect choice for seasoned hikers. Steep inclines, rocky terrain, and narrow forest paths define this adventurous route. As you trek through the wilderness, the changing scenery—from deep ravines to moss-covered boulders—creates a dynamic hiking experience. Upon reaching the Hocking Hills waterfall, you’ll find a quiet, secluded spot to relax and take in the natural beauty. This waterfall offers a sense of tranquility after the more strenuous parts of the hike, making it the perfect place to rest before continuing your journey. For those who appreciate both challenging hikes and hidden gems, Cantwell Cliffs and its Hocking Hills waterfall are not to be missed.
Swimming
A note on swimming: none of these waterfalls allow it. The pools look inviting and the rule feels arbitrary until you understand how fast the current moves after rain and how slick the gorge footing is. For actual swimming, Lake Logan is 10 minutes north of the park. Full details on swimming near Hocking Hills here.
Notestone Reserve is in Laurelville — 7 minutes from Rock House, 20 from Old Man’s Cave. Every unit has a private hot tub and fire pit, which after a day in the gorges tends to be exactly right. Browse stays here.
Hidden Hocking Hills Waterfalls
In addition to the more well-known Hocking Hills waterfalls, the area is home to several hidden gems. These lesser-known waterfalls offer a more secluded experience, away from the crowds of the main attractions.
Conkle’s Hollow Falls
Conkle’s Hollow is one of the most beautiful and rugged areas in Hocking Hills, and hidden within its deep gorge is a peaceful Hocking Hills waterfall. The hike to Conkle’s Hollow Falls is relatively easy, making it a great option for families or those looking for a less strenuous outing. The narrow gorge, flanked by towering cliffs, creates a serene and quiet atmosphere that’s perfect for a relaxing hike.
The waterfalls at Conkle’s Hollow may not be as large as some of the other waterfalls in Hocking Hills, but its beauty lies in its seclusion. The trail winds through a forest filled with wildflowers and towering trees, eventually leading you to the base of the waterfall. The area is often less crowded than other parts of the park, making it a perfect spot for quiet reflection.
Whispering Cave Waterfall
Whispering Cave is one of the newer additions to the Hocking Hills trail system, and its stunning waterfall has quickly become a favorite among visitors. Located near Old Man’s Cave, Whispering Cave is part of the Hemlock Bridge Trail, which connects both areas, making it possible for hikers to explore these two incredible sites in one day. The seasonal waterfall at Whispering Cave is a beautiful cascade that flows down a steep cliff, framed by dense forest and towering rock formations. Its location and natural beauty make it a must-see for those visiting the park.
The trail to Whispering Cave is more challenging than many of the other trails in Hocking Hills, featuring steeper inclines and uneven terrain, but the reward is well worth the effort. The waterfall’s secluded location offers a peaceful escape, perfect for photographers or those simply wanting to enjoy the calming sounds of nature. The surrounding trees and dramatic rock formations create a natural amphitheater, amplifying the tranquil ambiance and providing an ideal spot to relax and soak in the beauty of the area. For hikers seeking both adventure and serenity, Whispering Cave is an essential stop.
Best Times to Visit Hocking Hills Waterfalls
Spring: The Season of Waterfalls
Spring is, without question, the ideal time to witness Hocking Hills waterfalls in their most majestic form. As the winter snow melts and spring rains arrive, the waterfalls surge with powerful flows, transforming each site into a breathtaking natural spectacle. The vibrant greenery that surrounds the trails, along with blooming wildflowers, adds even more beauty to the experience, making every hike feel like a journey through a lush, living landscape. During spring, the falls are at their most dramatic, providing an unforgettable visual experience as water cascades down cliffs with renewed vigor.
In addition to the stunning waterfalls, the trails are often quieter in the spring compared to the busier summer months, offering a more peaceful, immersive experience in nature. Although the weather can be unpredictable, with occasional rain showers, it’s a small price to pay for the reward of seeing the Hocking Hills waterfalls at their fullest. For those who enjoy both adventure and tranquility, spring is the perfect time to explore the region’s trails and waterfalls.
Fall: Nature’s Masterpiece
Fall in Hocking Hills brings an entirely different, but equally stunning, experience. The vibrant autumn foliage, in shades of red, orange, and yellow, frames the Hocking Hills waterfalls, creating a picturesque scene that feels almost otherworldly. While the waterfalls may not be as powerful as in the spring, they remain beautiful as they flow amidst the backdrop of the changing leaves. The cool, crisp air of fall makes for ideal hiking conditions, allowing visitors to comfortably explore the trails while taking in the seasonal beauty.
Fall is also a favorite time for photographers and nature lovers, as the combination of waterfalls and autumn colors creates numerous photo opportunities. However, it is important to note that fall is the most popular season in Hocking Hills, drawing larger crowds, particularly in October when the foliage is at its peak. For the best experience, it’s recommended to plan your visit during the weekdays or arrive early in the day to fully appreciate the beauty of the Hocking Hills waterfalls without the crowds.
Tips for Visiting Hocking Hills Waterfalls
- Start Early: Hocking Hills waterfalls tend to attract large crowds, especially on weekends and during the peak fall season when the autumn colors are at their most vibrant. If you’re hoping to experience the waterfalls in a more tranquil setting, it’s best to start your hike early in the morning, just after sunrise. This will not only allow you to enjoy the waterfalls in peace but also offer cooler temperatures and softer light for photography. By arriving early, you can also secure better parking and beat the midday rush, making for a more relaxing experience overall.
- Dress Appropriately: The trails in Hocking Hills can vary in difficulty, with some sections being rocky and uneven, so wearing sturdy hiking boots with good traction is essential. Depending on the time of year, the trails may also be muddy or slippery, especially after rain or during spring thaw. Dressing in layers is a good idea, as mornings can be cool even in warmer months. In addition, consider bringing a rain jacket and extra socks if you plan to hike during unpredictable weather.
- Pack a Picnic: Many of the Hocking Hills waterfalls are located near designated picnic areas, making them ideal spots to relax and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. After exploring the trails, you can sit down and take in the scenic beauty while having a picnic with family or friends. Just remember to bring a blanket or use one of the picnic tables provided in the area.
- Respect Nature: Hocking Hills is a protected natural area, so be sure to follow all park rules and leave no trace. Stay on the designated trails and avoid disturbing the wildlife.
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