Permits, Towers, and Thorns – Hiking Boch Hollow, Little Rocky Hollow, Ash Cave Fire Tower, and Saltpetre Cave in Hocking Hills
Hocking Hills is more than its famous trails. The big three most people favor are Ash Cave, Old Man’s Cave, and Rock House. Hidden across the region are secluded preserves and secret waterfalls. There are also caves that are a little more remote and harder to reach. Yesterday, my bestie, the baby, and I set out to explore three of these off-the-beaten-path gems. We visited Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve, which is home of Corkscrew Falls. We also explored Little Rocky Hollow State Nature Preserve and Saltpetre Cave State Nature Preserve. And a fire tower to add to my list of climbed and conquered.
Luna, my usual hiking companion, stayed home since our three of the stops were strictly no pets allowed. I promised her I’d bring home plenty of pictures (and maybe some trail snacks).
Stop 1: Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve – Corkscrew Falls (Permit Only)
Corkscrew Falls is one of Hocking Hills’ most striking hidden waterfalls. Located inside Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve, it’s only accessible with a free ODNR permit.
The short 0.2-mile trail delivers instantly. A spiraling cascade drops into a jade-green pool. It is framed by mossy sandstone and shaded by a dense forest canopy. The quiet here is unmatched, thanks to the limited access. Though I definitely spotted 4 human footprints in the stream. It is good to point out that we should stay out of the water and on trail as directed. So we don’t ruin it for the rest of the population.
Stop 2: Little Rocky Hollow State Nature Preserve (Permit Only)
A one-mile entrance trail leads to this remote preserve. The last stretch drops steeply into the hollow. Cool air and dense greenery make the hike feel like stepping back in time.
This is one of those Hocking Hills hikes where you won’t hear much beyond your own footsteps. The terrain is rugged but rewarding.
Stop 3: Ash Cave Fire Tower – Tower #5
My fifth tower climb brought in sweeping views of the Hocking Hills region. From the top, green ridges roll endlessly into the distance, broken only by patches of sunlight. The climb was steady, the breeze constant, and the view was worth every step. 3 fire towers done in Ohio, 1 in North Carolina, and a smoke stack climbed in Mount Vernon.
Stop 4 – Saltpetre Cave State Nature Preserve (Permit Only, Attempted)
We ended the day attempting to reach the Saltpetre Caves, but the trail was choked with thorny vegetation. Every route seemed blocked, and after enough scratches and laughter, we turned back.
Even without seeing the caves, this stop added to the day’s adventure. It also added to the list of places I’ll return to better prepared.
This hike was a mix of hidden waterfalls, quiet preserves, and challenging climbs. The day started at the secluded Corkscrew Falls. It continued with the sweeping views of Ash Cave Fire Tower. This journey proved Hocking Hills’ beauty extends far beyond its most famous trails.
All Media from trip Another Hocking Trip?
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