Many people are familiar with popular caves in Ohio such as Old Man’s Cave and the Rock House―but few people know about “Chapel Cave” (also known as “21 Horses Cave”) hiding in the Hocking Hills. It’s a hidden gem in the Hocking State Forest that you won’t find on any park or nature preserve maps, but you can find the trailhead less than 5 minutes away from the Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve entrance in Rockbridge, Ohio.

Please note: The trail leading to the cave is a bridle trail, so riding horseback is recommended. The trail can be hiked on foot, but it’s fairly strenuous and muddy, as you cross multiple creek beds along the way. If you hike the trail without a horse, we recommend doing so after several days of no rain.

The cave can be difficult to find because it's not located within any specific park or nature preserve.
Screenshot via Google Maps
You can access the trailhead at the parking area across the street from the Hocking Climbing and Rappelling Area, right off of Big Pine Road/St. Rt. 374. (And because it is a bridle trail, you'll likely see some explorers riding horseback.)
April Dray/Only In Your State
The White Bridle Trail will lead you to the cave. On foot, it's about a 30-minute hike to the cave. If you're traveling horseback, it's about a 15-20 minute ride.
April Dray/Only In Your State
Simply follow the white markings through the forest. Once you come to the white posts, you're about 5 minutes from the base of the hillside that the cave sits on.
April Dray/Only In Your State
When you've reached the cave, you'll see a wooden fence and a canyon uphill to your right.
April Dray/Only In Your State

Related Stories

One Of The Oddest Geological Wonders Is Located Right Here In Ohio

One Of The Oddest Geological Wonders Is Located Right Here In Ohio

 The Ultimate Canyon Adventure In Ohio Most People Don't Know About

The Ultimate Canyon Adventure In Ohio Most People Don't Know About

 The Rare Natural Phenomenon In Ohio That Will Go Down In History

The Rare Natural Phenomenon In Ohio That Will Go Down In History
The climb uphill is a steep one, so take your time walking along the fence.
April Dray/Only In Your State
Once you finally reach the cave, you'll feel as if you've stumbled upon a Hocking Hills secret.
April Dray/Only In Your State
The cave is often referred to as "Chapel Cave" because of its triangular opening and pointed top. It's also known as "21 Horses Cave" because 21 horses can supposedly fit in the cave.
April Dray/Only In Your State
Inside, you can see crevices that go deep into the cave, (which we don't recommend venturing into for safety reasons)...
April Dray/Only In Your State
...and the view overlooking the hillside is absolutely stunning. <3
April Dray/Only In Your State

The trailhead is located at 19275 State Route 374 Rockbridge, OH 43149. For horseback rentals in the area, click here.

Did you know about this little-known cave? Have you ever explored it for yourself? Share your thoughts, photos and experiences with us! And for more caves to explore in Ohio, check out our previous article, Going Into These 6 Caves In Ohio Is Like Entering Another World.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Ohio