Ash Cave

Ash Cave is situated in the stunning Hocking Hills State Park, Hocking County, Ohio. Ash Cave is the largest recess cave East of the Mississippi River.

Points of interest: History Of Ash Cave | Hiking Around Ash Cave | Video | Reviews | Where to stay

History of Ash Cave

Ash Cave is enormous and is open to one side. It has a horseshoe-shaped rim and this spans over 700 feet. Ash Cave also has a runoff waterfall. It is on the southern tip of six natural areas that make up the Hocking Hills State Park.  Ash Cave is open all year round and no matter what time of the year it is, it is a must see for all visitors.

Located in the Hocking Hills State Park, Ash Cave is named for the large amounts of ash that the early settlers had discovered within the cave system. It is still a mystery where this ash came from, but many scholars believe that the ash was from the time when Native Americans used this cave for shelter. One pile of ash found here was over thirty feet wide and three feet deep. 

The early settlers used this cave as a church. The Pulpit Rock is still in the cave and can be seen at the opening of the cave.

Hiking Around Ash Cave

Ash Cave is one of the 7 major hiking trails in this park. This trail is around half a mile long and for the average walker, it will take around 40 minutes to complete. However, this can of course change with regards to weather conditions and other contributing factors.

Hikers are required to go one way and hikers who have to use Wheelchairs can also go along this route. This is an asphalt trail through a lovely gorge that is lined with cliff walls. Halfway along the trail there is a recess cave and a fantastic seasonal waterfall.

After reaching this area, Hikers (not in Wheelchairs) must continue along the one way system and up a flight of steps to the rim trail. This trail leads back to the parking lot. This path is clearly marked with signs.

It is imperative that hikers stay on the marked trail. Well behaved pets are permitted on this trail, providing that they stay on their leashes. No wading or swimming is allowed in the waterfall or the creeks.

The trail to Ash Cave is paved. This helps people of all abilities who wish to visit this wonderful cave. Wheelchair users and people with strollers will have no problems with this hike. This hike is for people of all ages. However, it is recommended that you take a packed-lunch with you, so you are able to eat within the cave and admire the cave whilst you relax.

If you are going to be doing some hiking in the Hocking Hills area during the colder months, you can! There are several parks with paved paths, but we do suggest you check out the best strollers for snow!

Short Video of Ash Cave

What Are People Saying About Ash Cave?

"Just a fantastic waterfall and worth the short .3 tenth mile walk on concrete wide path. Worth it for anyone but parking limited." (SS, Grand Rapids, MI. June 2022).

"Amazing experience! Very glad the rangers at the visitor centers recommended this trail! Agree the upper return trail is much more difficult than the one-way entrance trail to reach Ash cave." (GL, Chicago, IL. April, 2022).

"Easy walk as others say on a paved path. Short- took us maybe 15 minutes to reach the cave. Cave had a sand floor. Nice waterfall and pool on the perimeter of the cave. Can see why this was a hang out for people for so long..." (Wuckers, Midland, MI. March, 2022).

"Be careful on the upper return trail as it is steep in places and tree roots and rocks can make it hard to keep your footing. It is a beautiful area, and the cave is gigantic." (DS, Grove City, OH. November 2021).

"An easy hike in a lovely setting- highly recommended. Wonderful place to enjoy nature. I would avoid late morning/early afternoon to have a more peaceful experience. We went at 6pm and it was perfect!" (MR76, Norwalk, OH. September 2021).

Where Is Ash Cave Located and How Do I Contact Staff?

Ash Cave is located at: 27291 State Route 56, South Bloomingville, OH 43152  | GPS Tracking: (39.395993,-82.545927) There is also a Facebook page which is generated by member check-in's to the cave and trail!

Places To Stay Around Ash Cave

There are so many places to stay in the Hocking Hills area! Here are some of our favorites: Idyll Reserve | Hocking Hills Treehouse Cabins | Cherry Ridge Retreat | Cedar Grove Lodging

Let's Go To Ash Cave

Ash Cave is situated in the stunning Hocking Hills State Park, Hocking County, Ohio. Ash Cave is the largest recess cave East of the Mississippi River.

Have you visited Ash Cave? We would LOVE to hear from you!

If you are looking for more Things To Do In Ohio, then we recommend you check out these suggestions! Also in the area you can visit: Rock Bridge Nature Preserve | Conkles Hollow | Rock House

Check out our 2023 article about Caves In Ohio!