Place · 0 mi away
Overview
A compact, pretty waterfall tucked in a side canyon, Broken Rock Falls is exactly what it sounds like—water threading through a jumble of “broken” sandstone blocks into a small plunge pool. It’s an easy add-on to the Old Man’s Cave loop and usually quieter than the headline stops.
Getting There
Start from the Old Man’s Cave Recreation Area (parking, restrooms, picnic area, and a visitor center). Follow the gorge toward Lower Falls and watch for the small “Broken Rock Falls” sign—this spur is easy to miss. There isn’t a separate roadside pullout here.
Trail & Difficulty
Plan on roughly a 1.0‑mile loop with about 150 feet of gain from Old Man’s Cave. The spur is short but steep, with many uneven stone steps (about ninety by one count). Expect rocky, often damp footing; the stairs can be slick after rain and downright icy in winter. Some gorge routes run one‑way—follow posted arrows and current maps at the trailhead.
What You’ll See
The gorge exposes Black Hand Sandstone, with slump blocks and talus giving the falls its “broken” look. Ferns and mosses love the shade here; narrow spots can host nettles, so mind bare legs. Common forest birds are around, and you may spot salamanders near seepage—enjoy them without handling. Swimming or wading at waterfalls is typically prohibited; stay on the trail and off shifting boulders.
Best Time to Visit
Come after a recent rain for the best curtain of water. Summer droughts thin the flow; winter ice can be gorgeous but treacherous. The alcove stays shaded, so midday light is workable, and overcast cuts glare on wet rock. For fewer people, arrive early or choose weekdays and shoulder seasons. If you need facilities or a quick look at exhibits, the visitor center is generally open 10 am–4 pm.
Photography Tips
A wide or normal lens near the base captures the full drop and the chaotic sandstone blocks; a short telephoto isolates textures. The shaded setting rewards longer exposures—bring a steady hand.
Easy Add‑Ons
Tie this spur into Lower Falls and the main Old Man’s Cave features (stone bridges, recess cave) for a classic loop without extra driving.
Pros
- Quick signed spur off the main Old Man’s Cave loop
- Photogenic cascade through jumbled sandstone in a shady alcove
Cons
- Short but steep stair section that gets slick after rain or ice
- Flow can drop to a trickle in summer dry spells
Tips
- Watch for the small Broken Rock Falls sign just past Lower Falls.
- Expect around 90 uneven stone steps on the spur; it’s short but steep.
- Go after recent rain for the best flow; summer can be a thin ribbon.
- Follow posted one‑way arrows in the Old Man’s Cave area.
- Start early or on a weekday to sidestep the main gorge crowds.
