Ash Cave

About this spectacle

Ash Cave is one of Ohio's most impressive recess caves, a sweeping horseshoe-shaped sandstone alcove carved into the cliffs of Hocking Hills State Park. Visitors walk a paved, flat trail through a hemlock-shaded gorge before the cave opens dramatically overhead — a ceiling stretching roughly 700 feet wide and 100 feet deep. A seasonal waterfall spills from the lip of the overhang, catching winter light or filling the cave with mist after rain. The cave floor is soft with ash-colored sand and leaf litter, amplifying sound in a hushed, cathedral-like way. In winter, ice formations cling to the rock face; in summer, the cool air beneath the overhang offers relief from heat. Autumn draws visitors for the contrast of orange foliage against grey sandstone. The scale of the rock shelter feels genuinely humbling, and the accessible trail makes it reachable for almost anyone willing to make the short walk.

When to go

Jan — Dec, peak Oct — Feb

Getting there

Nearest airport: CMH. Nearest city: Columbus.

Booking options

Goyova doesn't process bookings directly. When you tap "Plan this trip" in the app, you'll see options from our partner providers — accommodation, tours, transport — with affiliate links where applicable. See our affiliate disclosure for details.