Hocking Hills Forest Road 16 Ash Cave Circuit

Forest Road 16 cuts through the heart of Hocking Hills State Forest, connecting the iconic Ash Cave recess to Old Man’s Cave via a network of maintenance roads that most tourists never see. The route passes through dense hardwood forest and crosses Queer Creek multiple times, with the old sandstone quarry at Conkle’s Hollow serving as a midpoint landmark where early settlers carved millstones from the cliff faces.

This is a moderate technical route requiring high-clearance 4WD for the creek crossings and muddy climbs after rain. Best tackled April through October when water levels are manageable. No permits needed, but respect private property boundaries marked along the northern section. Pack extra traction aids for the clay-over-sandstone sections that turn greasy when wet. You’ll earn solitude in one of Ohio’s most scenic regions and access to primitive camping spots away from the RV crowds.