Place · 0.1 mi away
Overview
A small tiered waterfall drops into a smooth, bowl‑shaped pothole—the “bathtub”—sculpted by the constant swirl of Old Man’s Creek through a weaker layer of Black Hand Sandstone. Local lore says it drains to Hades; in reality it’s only several feet deep and flows under a bridge toward Old Man’s Cave.
Where It Is and How to Reach It
You’ll find the Bathtub between Upper Falls and Old Man’s Cave. From the Old Man’s Cave Visitor Center, follow signs toward Upper Falls and continue downstream to the stone footbridge over the basin. Alternatively, start from the Upper Falls parking area, hop on the north end of the Grandma Gatewood Trail, and walk roughly 0.1 miles to the bridge.
What You’ll See
From the bridge, look down into a constantly swirling pool, often foamy after rain. The stream cuts narrow channels and ledges in the sandstone here, making for moody photos in overcast light and silky water shots when flow is up.
Safety and Rules
Do not swim or wade—signs make it clear that people have slipped in and climbing out is extremely difficult. The rock is slick year‑round; stay on the constructed trails and keep a safe distance from the edge. Dogs are allowed on most trails here; keep them leashed.
Best Time to Visit
Late winter through spring brings the strongest flow from snowmelt and rain. Summer is gentler and clearer; fall adds color; winter can be beautiful but icy. To dodge crowds, aim for weekdays, early mornings, or late afternoons.
Photography Tips
The best, safest vantage is the stone footbridge right over the tub. Overcast skies reduce glare on wet rock, and a circular polarizer helps tame reflections.
Logistics
Park at the Old Man’s Cave/Visitor Center lots—they fill on busy days, so arrive before 9 a.m. or later in the afternoon. Modern restrooms are inside the Visitor Center; there are no facilities at the Bathtub itself. Cell service can be spotty, and trails get muddy and slick after rain—wear traction footwear.
Make It a Mini‑Loop
Short on time? Upper Falls → Devil’s Bathtub → back makes a quick, rewarding stop. For a classic outing, continue through the gorge to Old Man’s Cave and Lower Falls (about 2 miles round trip), with options to add quieter side spots like Broken Rock Falls.
Pros
- Striking whirlpool carved in Black Hand Sandstone
- Quick stop close to Upper Falls and Old Man’s Cave
- Easy photo vantage from the stone footbridge
Cons
- Very popular; can feel crowded at peak hours
- Slick rock edges and swift water—no swimming allowed
Tips
- Park at the Old Man’s Cave Visitor Center and follow signs past Upper Falls.
- For strong flow, target late winter–spring; summer is gentler.
- Arrive early or late to avoid the footbridge crowd.
- Stay on the trail and keep back from slick edges; no wading.
- Overcast light and a polarizing filter help cut glare on wet rock.
