A distinctive face known as the Sphinx Head protrudes from the north wall above the plunge to Lower Falls, formed by wind and water erosion as one of many natural carvings throughout Hocking Hills State Park. Many rock outcroppings in the park have taken on fascinating shapes, and their tiny cracks and moist crevices support miniature life, including sphagnum moss, lichens, several types of fungus, and as many as 15 types of ferns such as Christmas and wood ferns in Old Man’s Cave alone. These small and delicate life forms are one of the reasons visitors are asked to stay on the trail at all times while in the park.