Ask a local about the best features of Hocking Hills State Park, and you’ll likely hear about Ash Cave – the largest, most impressive recess cave in Ohio. This horseshoe-shaped chamber measures 700 feet from end to end and is 100 feet deep! It’s named after a huge pile of ashes found under the shelter by early settlers, which is believed to be from Indian campfires built up over hundreds of years. Today, Ash Cave is one of the most popular spots in the park and is a wonderful place to explore. Here are some of our favorite things to do there.
Find out more about Ash Cave when you download our Hocking Hills State Park Guide. It’s full of information on great places to visit during your stay at the Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls!
Spend an Afternoon at Ash Cave
1. Hiking
Ash Cave is one of six major hiking areas in the park. It can be reached by walking a pet-friendly, handicap accessible trail through a gorge lined with massive hemlocks, beech trees, and other impressive hardwoods. The valley floor also offers brilliant displays of wildflowers and flora year-round. Visitors can take a naturalist-led hike or head out their own – just be sure to bring a camera! The gorge is approximately 1/4 mile long and gives way to the tremendous overhanging ledge and cave shelter.
2. Birdwatching
Are you an avid birdwatcher? You’re in luck! Hocking Hills State Park has countless acres of untouched forest, creating a safe haven for a wide variety of birds. Over 120 different species have been found in the area! Pack your binoculars and head to Ash Cave for a few peaceful hours of birdwatching.
3. Attend an Event
If you’re visiting Hocking Hills for the holidays, make plans to attend Christmas in Ash Cave. This family-friendly program is the perfect way to celebrate the start of the season! The event kicks off with a lantern walk to the cave. Once there, guests can sip refreshments by an open fire, decorate a Christmas tree, and even take photos with Santa. Christmas in Ash Cave is held each year in December and is fun for the whole family. Read our blog for details!
Another must-see event is the annual Sweethearts Hike in February, where couples take a guided stroll to the cave and enjoy several short stops along the way. A campfire, free cookies, and hot chocolate await your arrival. If you’re newly engaged, keep in mind that Ash Cave is a great location for weddings!
Book Your Stay at The Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls
After a wonderful trip to Ash Cave, head back to our Hocking Hills bed and breakfast and relax! Our comfortable guest rooms, cottages, and cabins have everything you need to unwind and are just minutes from Hocking Hills State Park. Sink into a bubbling whirlpool hot tub, or enjoy a glass of wine by a flickering fireplace. You can even join us for a delicious meal in our onsite restaurant, Kindred Spirits! Visit our accommodations page to learn more and contact us to make your reservations. We look forward to having you!
Find out how you can save on your next trip to Hocking Hills with our fantastic vacation specials!
Photo Credit: LarryKnupp | Getty Images