Ohio celebrating 100 years of owning iconic Old Man’s Cave at Hocking Hills with USA Today’s number one hike in America

Celebrate the number one hike in America with the 100th anniversary of Ohio purchasing the iconic Old Man’s Cave at Hocking Hills State Park.

On Saturday, October 12, visitors are invited to gather at the Old Man’s Cave Visitor Center at 9 a.m. for welcoming remarks followed by a challenging 4.5-mile guided hike along USA Today’s No. 1 hike in America, “Whispering Cave.” This scenic adventure takes hikers through vibrant fall colors along the Grandma Gatewood Buckeye Trail to the stunning Whispering Cave and back.

“This 100th anniversary truly is a celebration for all of Ohio,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “Hocking Hills is well loved by Ohioans and is getting the world-wide recognition it deserves as a fantastic hiking destination with unparalleled natural wonders for all visitors enjoy.  We welcome everyone to take advantage of this beautiful state park and experience the Heart of Adventure, right here in Ohio.”

Whether you’re a long-time visitor or exploring Hocking Hills for the first time, this hike promises a truly unforgettable experience. Along the way, park naturalists will provide fascinating insights into the park’s unique history and breathtaking landscape. Participants are encouraged to dress for the weather and come prepared for a hike involving inclines, cliff edges in places, and uneven terrain.

“As we celebrate 100 years of preserving the breathtaking beauty of Old Man’s Cave, we are reminded of the importance of protecting our natural treasures for future generations,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “This hike is a wonderful way to honor our past and embrace the natural wonders that make Ohio so unique.”

The celebration continues after the hike with special presentations at the historic cabin behind the Visitor Center. Guests can learn more about the park’s rich history, from its ancient geological formations to its status as one of Ohio’s premier outdoor destinations.

Located in Southeastern Ohio, Hocking Hills State Park has gained national and international acclaim for its towering cliffs, deep gorges, and cascading waterfalls. The park enchants visitors year-round, with each season offering its own unique beauty—from the stunning ice formations of winter to the vivid foliage of autumn. The park’s history stretches back over thousands of years, with evidence suggesting Native American tribes, including the Adena, Wyandot, Delaware, and Shawnee, once inhabited the area.

In 1924, the state of Ohio made its first land purchase, securing Old Man’s Cave and beginning a century-long effort to preserve the park’s natural beauty for future generations. This land protection came about thanks to Reverend Pascal Bright, who is known to many as “the father of Hocking Hill State Park.” He was instrumental in convincing the state to purchase the land and this year at the Ohio State Fair, Reverend Pascal Bright was inducted into the Ohio Natural Resources Hall Fame .

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