Pros & cons
PROS
- Quieter feel than the main Old Man’s Cave loop once you’re on the spur
- Close-up photography angles in a sandstone alcove when flow is up
CONS
- The 91 uneven stone steps can be slick and feel steeper than expected
- Spur can be narrow or overgrown and muddy after rain
Park at the Old Man’s Cave Visitor Center lot on OH-664; restrooms and a visitor center are on site.
Uneven, slick stone steps and sandstone ledges; follow one-way signs, keep children close near drop-offs, and do not swim or wade in the falls or creek.
Overview
This is a quick, high-payoff loop based out of the Old Man’s Cave area, with a short spur to Broken Rock Falls. Expect around 1.0 mile total (loop plus spur), roughly 150 feet of elevation gain, and 30–60 minutes on trail. The draw is a secluded waterfall pouring into a rocky alcove amid sculpted sandstone, dense forest, and a cool, shaded gorge atmosphere.
Route
Start at the Old Man’s Cave Visitor Center and descend into the gorge. You’ll pass classic sights like Old Man’s Cave and the Lower Falls before crossing a stone bridge to reach the signed spur to Broken Rock Falls. The spur climbs roughly 91 uneven stone steps into a small canyon full of—aptly—large broken rocks. After your visit, return to the main trail, then climb wooden stairs to the rim and follow signs back to the Visitor Center for a different vantage on the cliffs.
What You’ll See
The gorge’s microclimate keeps things lush—watch for mats of ferns clinging to the sandstone. Broken Rock Falls drops inside a rocky alcove, where you can get close to the plunge pool for moody photos when flow is up. Along the way, look for bridges, rock-hewn stairs, and narrow passages cut into Black Hand Sandstone.
Difficulty & Safety
Overall easy–moderate, but the spur is short and steep. The stone steps and sandstone ledges turn slick when wet or icy—grippy footwear is a must. Some sections can feel narrow or overgrown. Follow posted one-way guidance, keep kids close near drop-offs, and skip any tempting wading or swimming in the falls or creek.
Best Times to Hike
Flow peaks in spring and after rain, though that also means muddier, slicker footing. Summer brings crowds in the main Old Man’s Cave loop—start early if you want quieter moments at the falls. Fall color typically lights up late September through late October and is popular. Winter can be magical with ice; bring traction for the steps.
Tips
- Start early from the Visitor Center to enjoy the Lower Falls area before it fills up.
- Wear sturdy shoes; consider microspikes in winter.
- Cell service is spotty—download maps ahead of time.
- Leashed pets are allowed; pack out all trash.
If You Want More
Cedar Falls and Ash Cave are short drives away and offer bigger-water or grander-scope scenes if you’re chasing more waterfall time the same day.
Elevation
1 mi · 45 minWhere it starts
39.4345, -82.5416Near Broken Rock Falls Trail
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