Yesterday, our Shadyside guests reminded us of the trail work going on at Old Man’s Cave in the Hocking Hills. Here’s an update from Ohio State Parks:
The first phase of the capital improvement project at Old Man’s Cave has been completed.
The upper falls accessible ramp and deck has been installed. It will take hikers from the existing accessible sidewalk down to the stone arch bridge spanning the upper falls region. The new ramp and deck will offer a safe view of the upper falls region for all of our visitors.
The second phase of the project will be the replacement of the wooden staircase that leads hikers down to the lower falls region. The new staircase will be a metal spiral design and will require the closure of this trail for approximately 3 weeks during construction.
The trail closure will include the portions of trail near the lower falls overlook, the long tunnel section, and the trail that leads down to lower falls, including closure of the short side trail to Broken Rock Falls.
A majority of the trail system at Old Man’s Cave will be unaffected by the closure and all of the most popular features will remain open including the upper falls, devil’s bathtub, Old Man’s Cave itself and the lower falls waterfall area.
Beginning the week of October 6, there may be daily, week-day closures of the main trail causing short-term hiking inconveniences but these will not impact weekend hiking. Also, hikers will still have access to all of the features of the trail.
The closed section is expected to reopen by mid-October. Signs will be posted at the closed areas to keep visitors at a safe distance in these work zones. ODNR will continue to post updates regarding the construction scheduling and closures as information is received. Please contact the park directly with any questions regarding the project; the park’s phone number is 740-385-6842.