When it comes to aboveground caves and colorful caverns, Ohio is full of several rock shelters to explore that will make you feel like Indian Jones himself. Since The Buckeye State is practically made for explorers, we wanted to map out the best route to some of the best caves in Ohio. From the popular caverns to the little-known caves, this trip features some of Ohio's best caves that are guaranteed to bring out your adventurous side. The trip is designed in a loop, so simply start at the cave closest to you:
The total trip to the best caves in Ohio takes about five hours of driving time. We recommend taking the trip over a weekend. Explore the Hocking Hills area caves in one day and explore the Ohio Caverns and Olentangy Indian Caverns on the other day. You can view a Google Map of the trip in a operate tab or window to plan out your trip ahead of time. Now, who's ready for a subterranean adventure in the Buckeye State?
Are you ready to experience beauty that's downright otherworldly? "America's Most Colorful Caverns" can be found in West Liberty, Ohio. The caverns were formed thousands of years ago when an underground river cut through ancient limestone and created vast rooms and passageways. These passageways are now filled with crystal stalactites, stalagmites and many other formations.Within the Ohio Caverns is one of the world's largest and most perfectly formed stalactites. Crystal King (pictured) is nearly five feet long, weighing an estimated 400 pounds, and is estimated to be more than 200,000-years-old. You'll find this magical spot at 2210 OH-245 E, West Liberty, OH, 43357.
History and geology blend at this unique attraction, which features caverns once used by the Wyandotte Indians. Formed by an underground river cutting through solid limestone rock, these caverns were formed millions of years ago, making them an exciting natural wonder to explore. Above ground, you can mine for gems, explore Frontier Town and even play mini golf at the Olentangy Indian Caverns in Ohio. It's a great family day trip destination. You'll find this destination at 1779 Home Rd, Delaware, OH, 43015.
Within the Hocking Hills State Park area in Logan is the beloved Rock House, where visitors can freely explore this unique cave with a 25 ft. high ceiling and window-like openings. Evidence shows that the homey Rock House was often used for shelter by past visitors, Native Americans and even bootleggers, robbers and horse thieves. Today, it has a much more peaceful milieu. You'll find this landmark at 16350 OH-374, Laurelville, OH, 43135.
Many people are familiar with popular caves in Ohio such as Old Man’s Cave and the Rock House ― but few people know about "Chapel Cave" (also known as "21 Horses Cave") hiding in the Hocking Hills. It’s a hidden gem in the Hocking State Forest that you won’t find on any park or nature preserve maps, but you can find the trailhead less than 5 minutes away from the Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve entrance in Rockbridge, Ohio. You'll find this local landmark near 24798 Big Pine Rd, Logan, OH, 43138.
Hocking Hills State Park is arguably Ohio's most beloved state park, where waterfalls, caves, unique rock formations and hiking trails abound. Old Man's Cave has an interesting history and origin to its name. Legend has it, a 19th-century hermit who once lived in the cave, (named Richard Rowe,) is buried under a cave ledge in the area. Take the 1-mile Old Man's Cave Loop trail for an unforgettable day hike. You can park near 21725 OH-374 Scenic, Logan, OH, 43138. Curious about what to expect when hiking to Old Man's Cave? Check out this YouTube video from Trailhead Adventures:
The Ash Cave Trail within Hiking Hills State Park features a .25-mile long Gorge Trail that is wheelchair accessible, as well as a .5-mile long Rim Trail. Most days, the falls that flow from the top of Ash Cave are fairly narrow but being able to walk behind them is a magical experience. The Ash Cave Trail within Hiking Hills State Park features a .25 mile long Gorge Trail that is wheelchair accessible, as well as a .5 mile long Rim Trail. Most days, the falls that flow from the top of Ash Cave are fairly narrow but being able to walk behind them is a magical experience. You'll find this lovely spot off near OH-56, Logan, OH 43138.
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7. Whispering Cave (Hocking Hills State Park)
With massive sandstone cliffs, a new cave, a towering waterfall and a swinging bridge, the brand new Hemlock Bridge Trail to Whispering Cave at Hocking Hills State Park is an Ohio adventure you simply have to take this summer. The Hemlock Bridge Trail is a 1.5-mile trail that leads to Whispering Cave, a 300 ft.-wide cavern many past visitors have yet to explore. (The trail also features a 105-ft. waterfall, towering sandstone cliffs Hocking Hills explorers know and love and a swinging bridge that will bring out your sense of adventure.) The trailhead is located at the entrance of the former dining lodge parking lot, which you can park at during daylight hours. This spot is nestled away in Logan, OH 43138.
Have you explored any of the best caves in Ohio before? If so, please share your adventures with us in the comments! We'd also love to hear your thoughts on other incredible caves that you think would fit well with this road trip.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
Someone recently told me, "Ohio is like five states in one, culturally and physically." I laughed at first, because we definitely have a diverse culture that varies from region to region... but then I started reflecting on the landscape aspect of that comment. Up north, the Pleistocene-era glaciers created a flat landscape with one Great Lake. In the southern reaches of The Buckeye State, the Appalachian foothills add some movement to the landscape. We have waterfalls, plains, sandy beaches, sand dunes, and, overall, so much natural variety. Today, we're going to visit some of Ohio's most iconic views to experience the very best of its diverse landscape. This road trip takes 6.5 hours in driving alone, so don't be afraid to break it up with some overnight stays. This is the perfect opportunity to break out some snacks and a good travel scavenger hunt game, because you're going to adore seeing Ohio like never before.
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Naturally, the first stop on our road trip is in the stunning Cleveland Metroparks.
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For over a century, the Cleveland Metroparks' landscape has delighted Northeast Ohioans with diversity. Berea Falls in Rocky River Reservation is one of the park district's most calendar-worthy locations, and visitors can't help but snap photos. Rocky River Reservation is so large that it stretches into several cities — Berea, Brook Park, Cleveland, Fairview Park, Lakewood, North Olmsted, Olmsted Township, and Rocky River — but we'll just stay in one area for this road trip.
At the Berea Falls Scenic Overlook, the famous Berea Sandstone is carved and shaped by post-glacial waters left behind during the last ice age. Historic bridges, which are still in use by railroads, prove that thoughtful engineering can enhance natural urban beauty. A small parking lot provides easy access to the falls, making this an effortless choice for starting our road trip.
However, you can't just visit one waterfall in Northeast Ohio. That should qualify as a crime! We're going to take an easy drive down to Brandywine Falls from here.
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Brandywine Falls is an impressive 60 feet tall, which is nine feel shorter than the smallest features on the American side of Niagara Falls. It's absolutely stunning, and it's surprisingly easy to reach. From the parking lot, you'll just take a short staircase alongside fern and lichen-covered stone walls until you reach this roaring cascade.
The might of the waterfall depends on local rainfall, of course, so don't be surprised if your visit ends up looking a bit different than the picture above. You can treat this stop on the road trip as a quick photo op, but you're also encouraged to explore more of Cuyahoga Valley National Park while you're in the area. It's the only national park in Ohio, and it has so much to offer... especially if you're a fan of waterways and waterfalls.
Next, we're going to inch our way closer to Ohio's Appalachian bioregion with a visit to Richland County.
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This gorgeous landscape belongs to Malabar Farm State Park, one of Ohio's many working farms that's open to the public. The historic landscape of the park once belonged to Pulitzer Prize-winning author and socialite Louis Bromfield, who managed to make this region famous in his Hollywood circles. While his historic home (and other local places of interest like the Ceely Rose house) are often the main draw for visitors, it's Mount Jeez that earns this place a spot on our list of Ohio's most iconic views.
The Mount Jeez Overlook in Malabar Farm State Park has an elevation of circa 1320 feet, making it a lovely way to take in the surrounding landscape. Rolling hills and forested stretches of land will awe you, and it's easy to see why Louis Bromfield decided to settle in this area.
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After visiting a hidden gem in Ohio, we might as well visit one of the state's most famous attractions, right?
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Upper Falls in Hocking Hills is yet another gorgeous example of how architecture can enhance the natural landscape. Also known as Upper Old Man's Cave Falls, this stunning spot is arguably the most famous natural attraction in The Buckeye State. Tucked away in Southeast Ohio's Appalachian foothills, this gorgeous spot is one of many attractions tucked away along circa 25-miles of trails. And as this spot is highly isolated, you might want to print off directions on the off-chance that you won't have a phone signal. Trust me on this one.
The gorgeous stone walls in this area are a reminder of Ohio's days as part of the Atlantic Ocean, as its Black Hand Sandstone predates the era when dinosaurs walked the earth. Stunning crystalline waters and lyrical birdsong make the region downright memorable.
Love waterfront views? You're going to adore the next stop on our list.
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The Ohio River Scenic Byway in and around Marietta, Ohio is always a treat to visit. It curves along Southern Ohio, spanning 14 counties along its 452-mile expanse. However, the stretch of this byway we're going to visit for this particular road trip is in Marietta.
With the confluence of the Muskingum and Ohio Rivers right in town, water is highly important to this historic community. Indigenous peoples once prospered in this region, and archaeological earthworks keep this history in the public eye. When European Americans arrived, industry quickly blossomed, with railroads and oil becoming central to the region's success. Today, all that hustle and bustle has slowed down, making the sleepy community a gorgeous stop for natural attractions.
These five spots are some of Ohio's most iconic views, but they're far from the only incredible scenic overlooks in the state. Which are your favorites? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!
