Whispering Cave/Hemlock Bridge
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Hocking Hills newest hiking trail, Whispering Cave, offers visitors a slightly more challenging hike than other parks in the area. If you are up for incline/decline hiking, you will not be dissapointed by the gorgeous views at the end of the trail. After a brisk 0.8 miles, you will arrive at Whispering Cave, boasting a 300 foot wide recess cave and a waterfall that is over 100 feet tall.
Whispering Cave is a pet friendly trail. 🐕
Whispering Cave is divided into two separate...
Hocking Hills newest hiking trail, Whispering Cave, offers visitors a slightly more challenging hike than other parks in the area. If you are up for incline/decline hiking, you will not be dissapointed by the gorgeous views at the end of the trail. After a brisk 0.8 miles, you will arrive at Whispering Cave, boasting a 300 foot wide recess cave and a waterfall that is over 100 feet tall.
Whispering Cave is a pet friendly trail. 🐕
Whispering Cave is divided into two separate trails. Both trails have a combination of dirt paths, wood and gravel stairs, and board walks overtop of the ground in extra wet locations. Trekkers begin their march on the Hemlock Bridge Trail. After 0.6 miles, the trail forks. To the right is the 0.2 mile Whispering Cave Trail. Venture down this path to experience the 300 foot recess cave and waterfall. To the left, you will continue on Hemlock Bridge Trail. After another 0.4 miles, there is a viewing area offering stunning views of the vast pine forest that calls Hocking Hills home. From this vantage point, hikers can start the 1 mile walk back to the trail head. Or, continue on the trail and turn right to begin a 1.2 mile hike to Cedar Falls. Continue on the trail and turn left, and you will reach Old Man's Cave in 0.7 miles.
The Whispering Cave trail head is located in the parking lot of the Hocking Hills Lodge that burned down in 2016. A new and improved lodge with an estimated cost of $31 million has completed construction and is now open to the public as of October, 2022! Upon your arrival at Whispering Cave, you will notice the addition of a new disc golf course. The Disc golf course is temporarily closed due to construction of the lodge.
Highlights
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Hemlock Bridge
Nestled among towering hemlock trees, the bridge blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings, creating a charming and rustic atmosphere. It spans a narrow ravine, providing a safe and convenient crossing point for hikers while offering views of the rugged gorge below. Access via the Whispering Cave to Old Man’s Cave Trail.
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Whispering Cave
Whispering Cave in the Hocking Hills is a vast recess cave, much larger than many others in the region, with an overhanging cliff that creates a dramatic, sheltered space beneath, offering a grand and secluded feel. Adding to its beauty is a seasonal waterfall that cascades over the edge of the cliff, creating a serene scene that is especially striking after periods of rain, with the gentle flow of water enhancing the tranquil ambiance of the cave. Hike your way down the Whispering Cave Trail to take in this sight.
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Honeycomb Weathering
Honeycomb Weathering is a fascinating geological feature characterized by a pattern of small, closely spaced cavities or holes that resemble a honeycomb.These cavities vary in size and shape, often forming a network of interconnected pockets that can be quite striking to observe up close. Its location is at the trailhead of the Whispering Cave Trail.
Trail Map
Photos of Lodge Connector Trail
Photos of To Old Man's Cave Trail
Photos of Whispering Cave Trail
Nearby Activities and Attractions
