Pros & cons
PROS
- Historic stone arch that perfectly frames Upper Falls
- Steps from the main lot and Visitor Center; on the start of the loop
CONS
- Very crowded midday and on weekends
- Flow can be thin or dry in late summer
Overview
The Stone Bridge spans Old Man’s Creek directly above Upper Falls at the start of the Old Man’s Cave loop. It’s small, handsome, and wildly photogenic—the classic view is the stone arch framing the 30–40‑foot drop of Upper Falls. Expect this to be one of the park’s most photographed spots.
Geology & Backstory
Upper Falls sits in Blackhand Sandstone, a Mississippian‑age unit whose tougher layers form cliffs while weaker beds erode into recess caves and ledges. The bridge has been documented here for decades, and major trail work around 1998–2002 restored stone arch bridges in this area, keeping the old‑world look while improving safety.
What You’ll See (and Shoot)
Best vantage points are from the gorge floor looking back at the arch with the falls centered beneath it, and from the bridge itself peering over the lip. After rains, the creek surges and photographs beautifully; in dry late summer the falls can shrink to a trickle. For photos, arrive at sunrise to mid‑morning for softer light; a wide‑angle and an ND filter help create that silky‑water look.
How to Visit
Park at the Old Man’s Cave/Visitor Center on OH‑664. The Grandma Gatewood Trail begins at Upper Falls, and you’ll cross the stone bridge almost immediately. Trails are generally one‑way—follow posted arrows. Pets are allowed on leash. No wading or swimming in the creek or falls. You’ll find modern restrooms, water, exhibits, and a shop at the Visitor Center, plus picnic tables near the main lot.
Nearby on the Same Loop
Continue downstream to see Devil’s Bathtub, Old Man’s Cave, and Lower Falls—all on the popular Upper‑to‑Lower Falls route.
Best Time to Visit
Weekdays and early mornings are your friend. Go after a soaking rain for peak flow; avoid the late‑morning to mid‑afternoon crush if you want cleaner compositions.
Where it is
39.4362, -82.5390Tips for Stone Bridge at Upper Falls
- 01Start at sunrise on a weekday to beat the crowds and harsh light.
- 02Follow the one‑way arrows; it’s easy to miss shots if you try to backtrack.
- 03Bring a wide‑angle lens and an ND filter for long‑exposure waterfall shots.
- 04Plan your visit after rain for the most dramatic flow at Upper Falls.
- 05Keep pets leashed and stay out of the water—no wading or swimming.
Amenities
Near Stone Bridge at Upper Falls
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayOld Man's Cave Upper FallsIconic stone-bridge waterfall that starts the gorge loopTrailhead · Parking
0 mi awayBroken Rock FallsShaded side canyon waterfall threading through jumbled sandstone blocksParking · Restroom
0 mi awayOld Man’s Cave OverlookClassic gorge vista on the Old Man’s Cave loopParking · Restroom
0 mi awayWhispering Cave OverlookSigned viewpoint above the gorge on the Whispering Cave trailScenic Viewpoint
0.2 mi awayWhispering Cave TrailA one-way loop to a vast recess cave and a swinging bridge.Moderate · 5 mi · 2.5 hr
0.2 mi awayWhispering Cave LoopBig recess cave, swinging bridge, and a one-way 5-mile adventure.Moderate · 5 mi · 2.5 hr
0.2 mi awayGrandma Gatewood TrailWaterfalls and recess caves on a 6 mile blue blazed traverseModerate · 6 mi · 4 hr
0.2 mi awayBroken Rock Falls TrailShort, stair-steep detour to a tucked-away waterfall alcoveModerate · 1 mi · 45 min
