Maybe it’s the sound of rushing water as you approach or the or the peacefulness of being out in nature, there is just something magical about waterfalls. Thankfully, there are many breathtaking waterfalls in Ohio just waiting for your next adventure. In fact, we’ve got details on over 27 Ohio waterfalls to help you plan your next outing.
Plan to visit during every season for a different experience each time – from water flowing fast to partially frozen.
Brandywine Falls in Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: The waterfall is located about .25 mile from the parking lot. If you are interested in hiking in the area try the 1.4 mile Brandywine Gorge Trail
Parking: 8176 Brandywine Rd., Northfield, OH 44067
Easily Accessible. The most popular waterfall in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park and one of the most popular waterfalls in Ohio, Brandywine falls is a must visit. With a impressive 65-foot drop and heavy waterflow you can hear falls crashing down as you approach with anticipation. There are two observation decks. The top deck is handicap accessible with no steps and provides a beautiful birds eye view of the falls. The lower observation deck winds along the river and does have a series of steps to reach. The view is amazing and the perfect spot to get pictures.
Interested in seeing more waterfalls in the CVNP? Then be sure to check out Blue Hen Falls and Buttermilk Falls.
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Blue Hen Falls in Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 3.0 miles | Trail Details
Parking: 6947 Riverview Rd, Peninsula, OH 44264
The hike to the falls begins near the Boston Mills Visitors Center. If you’ve never been to the visitors center, consider stopping in to talk to the park rangers about the trail conditions and pick up a free junior ranger activity book for the kids. The hike is hilly and can be muddy in spots (or icy in the winter) so make sure to wear shoes you don’t mind getting dirty. The trail ends at the waterfall and people often rock scramble to get a closer look at the falls. If you want to extend your hike and see another waterfall you can continue on the trail to Buttermilk Falls.
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Buttermilk Falls in Cuyahoga Valley National Parks
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 5 miles total | Falls are located 1 mile past the end of the Blue Hen Falls trail
Parking: 6947 Riverview Rd, Peninsula, OH 4426
Buttermilk Falls is a hidden gem and there isn’t a designated trail maintained by the national park, although enough people know about it that the path is well traveled and easy to follow. After hiking to Blue Hen Falls, you will see a sign that says ‘Trail Ends Here’ this marks the end of the Blue Hen Falls trail. Continue past the sign and follow the path along the river. Be prepared as the path crosses the river twice, although usually there are rocks to cross and the water very shallow. In about a mile you will come to a small canyon-like enclosed waterfall.
Bridal Veil Falls in Bedford Reservation
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: .4 mile | Trail Details
Parking: The Bridal Veil Falls trailhead parking lot located off Gorge Parkway in the Bedford Reservation.
Easily Accessible by a boardwalk (with some stairs). This is a calmer waterfall than some of the others. To get to the waterfall, park in the Bridal Veil Falls trailhead parking lot located off Gorge Parkway in the Bedford Reservation. Then cross the street and use the boardwalk steps to get down to the waterfall.
Also in the area is Tinkers Creek Gorge Scenic Overlook. To reach the overlook, simply continue west on the Buckeye Trail for about a mile past the waterfall. It definitely worth the hike to see, especially during the fall months when the leaves are changing colors. In addition, The Great Falls of Tinkers Creek, an impressive and also easily accessible waterfall, is located about a 3 mile drive from the trailhead and is definitely worth the visit.
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Great Falls of Tinkers Creek in Viaduct Park
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: .6 mile | Trail Details
Parking: Located in Viaduct Park, which can be found at the intersection of Taylor Rd. and Willis Rd. in Bedford, OH.
Easily Accessible by a paved trail. Viaduct Park is the hidden gem of Bedford, and measuring 80+ feet wide, it is one of the widest waterfalls in Ohio. The waterfall is located in Viaduct Park, which can be found at the intersection of Taylor and Willis Roads. Once you’ve found the park, take the paved trail for a few minutes to get to the waterfall. If you are up for an adventure there is a tunnel you can duck down and walk thought to get a look at the falls.
Visiting this waterfall is amazing any time of the year, but it looks pretty incredible in the winter because it freezes over and the ice formations are stunning. In addition, Bridal Veil Falls in Bedford Reservation is located about a 3 mile drive from Viaduct Park and is definitely worth the visit while you are in the area.
Mill Creek Falls in Garfield Park Reservation
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: .2 mile
Parking: On Webb Terrace, near the intersection of Warner Rd. and Broadway Ave.
Easily Accessible. At 48 feet in height, Mill Creek Falls is the tallest waterfall in Cuyahoga Country and the only waterfall in Cleveland city limits. Originally named Cataract Falls of Mill Creek, the manmade waterfall was created in the 1900s. Parking is available on Webb Terrace, near the intersection of Warner Rd. and Broadway Ave. Visitors can easily see the waterfall from the observation deck located right next to the falls. To get the best experience of the water cascading over the rock layers, make sure to visit after it has rained because it thins out in the dry summer months.
Berea Falls in Rocky River Reservation
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: .3 mile | Trail Details
Parking: Berea Falls Scenic Overlook, Berea
Easily Accessible. Berea Falls is part of the Rocky River Reservation and includes multiple smaller waterfalls along the section of the Rocky River. The stone bridges in the background make it especially picturesque and you may even see a train passing through during your visit. Park at the Scenic Overlook (Barrett Drive) and use the boardwalk to enjoy the waterfall from a distance. You can also take a short trail and walk down to get an up close look at the waterfalls along the Rocky River. {Find Out More}
Chagrin Falls in downtown Chagrin Falls
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: .2 mile | Trail Details
Parking: Chagrin Falls (closest intersection is North Main St. and Bell St.)
Easily Accessible. No hiking is needed to see this waterfall in downtown Chagrin Falls. Simply find a nearby parking spot and then take a short walk to the boardwalk near Chagrin Falls Popcorn Shop and following the signs down to the falls. While you are visiting, take time to walk around the historic Chagrin Falls area. There are many unique shops and restaurants including the Chagrin Falls Popcorn Shop, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams and Yours Truly Restaurant.
Also in the area is Henry Church Rock waterfall and historic rock carving located in the South Chagrin Reservation. It is located about a 3 mile drive from Chagrin Falls and is definitely worth the visit.
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Henry Church Rock Falls in South Chagrin Reservation
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: .6 mile | Trail Details
Parking: Henry Church Rock Picnic Area, Hawthorn Pkwy, Bentleyville, OH 44022
During this short trail you’ll see a lovely waterfall and historic rock carvings. Park at the Henry Church Rock picnic area and follow the trail along the river. First you’ll come to Henry Church Rock Waterfall (originally called Squaw Rock Falls) where you can view from afar or you can wade in the shallow water along the river. A short walk longer down the trail will lead you to Henry Church Rock, which was carved in the 1885 by artist Henry Church. Images in the rock include an eagle, shield, woman and much more.
Also in the area is the urban waterfall Chagrin Falls located in historic downtown Chagrin Falls. It is located about a 3 mile drive from the Henry Church Rock picnic area and is definitely worth the visit.
Columbia Beach Falls
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: .25 mile
Parking: Columbia Park – 25436 Lake Rd Bay Village, OH 44140
You simply must visit this waterfall that goes directly into Lake Erie! Park in the lot across the street and take the short walk on the paved path to the observation deck above the falls. The view from the top is worth the trip, but if you don’t mind getting you feet a little wet we recommend taking the stairs to get down to the beach. The last step is a bit more than a “normal” drop and depending on the waves your feet may get wet walking on part of the beach. However it’s totally worth it to get to the base of the waterfall and to walk along the short beach.
Paine Falls in Paine Falls Park
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: .2 mile | Trail Details
Parking: 5570 Paine Rd., Painesville, OH 44077
Easily Accessible. Part of Lake Metroparks, Paine Falls is a stunning waterfall with two tiers and a 30-foot drop. It’s definitely a must see! The short trail begins at the parking lot and travels down a set of stairs to the observation area. The bridge behind the falls provides a beautiful backdrop for photos. As you can tell from the photo above, the area is especially pretty during the fall when the leaves are changing colors. {Find Out More}
West Falls in Cascade Park
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.2 mile | Trail Details
Parking: 387 Furnace Street, Elyria, Ohio 44035
Easily Accessible. Part of the Lorain Metroparks, Cascade Park is a great place to spend the day. Park in the main parking lot, and let the kids enjoy some time of the large playground. Then set out on the trail that runs along the river to the overlook area. This waterfall is impressive because the flow of water between the rocks makes it appear to be three different individual waterfalls right next to one another. It’s also a great spot to visit during the winter months as the water freezes into impressive ice formations.
Remember this is only one of the two waterfalls in Cascade Park, the other named East Falls. You’ll need to make the short drive to another parking lot, but it’s definitely worth seeing them both.
East Falls in Cascade Park
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: .2 mile
Parking: 131 Kerstetter Way, Elyria, OH 44035
Easily Accessible. This is a super unique waterfall and the boardwalk walkway and overlook make it very easy to get to. The waterfall begins as the water from the Black River cascades over a man made spillway and then travels a little farther to a second drop over rocks and stones.
Remember this is only one of the two waterfalls in Cascade Park, the other named West Falls. You’ll need to make the short drive to another parking lot, but it’s definitely worth seeing them both.
Day’s Dam Waterfall in Black River Reservation
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.5 mile | Trail Details
Parking: 2720 E 31st St, Lorain, OH 44055
Easily Accessible. At 40 feet tall and 10 feet wide Day’s Dam is a hidden gem of the Black River Reservation. To reach the waterfall, park in the Day’s Dam trailhead parking lot and find the Bridgeway trail. Head south (under the archway over the path) on the trail and hike about a half mile and you’ll see the Waterfall trail on your right. The waterfall trail is a half mile loop where you’ll find the beautiful waterfall just waiting for you. You can take one of the various trails off the main trail to get to the base of the waterfall. Plan your trip after a heavy rain or snow melt for an amazing sight!
Lanterman’s Falls by Lanterman’s Mill in Mill Creek Metroparks
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: The waterfall is located a short 1 min walk from the parking lot. If you are interested in hiking try the easy 2 mile Gorge Loop
Parking: 1001 Canfield Rd., Youngstown, OH 44511
Easily Accessible. The waterfall is a short walk from the parking lot and located next to historic Lanterman’s Mill. Because the Mill is still operational and open seasonally from May through October, consider timing your visit so you can see the waterfall and tour the mill at the same time. Also nearby is a beautiful covered bridge and several hiking trails within Mill Creek Metroparks. The Gorge Loop is a popular and easy two mile trail that begins by the waterfall and travels peacefully along the river.
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Waterfall at the Gorge Metro Park
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: The waterfall is located about .3 mile from the parking lot. If you are interested in hiking in the area try the 2 mile Gorge Trail
Parking: 1160 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44223
Technically, the falls here are caused by a dam but it is still beautiful waterfall nonetheless. A short and easy hike from the parking lot takes you to a boardwalk that leads right up to the waterfall, offering a great view. If you are up for a longer hike follow the Gorge Trail to see Old Maid’s Kitchen (formerly known as Mary Campbell cave) and stunning rock formations and ledges.
Hayden Run Falls in Dublin
Difficulty: Easy (although there are steps required to get to the falls)
Distance: The waterfall is located about .3 mile from the parking lot. | Trail Details
Parking: 4326 Hayden Run Rd., Dublin, OH 43017
Easily Accessible. Located in the Griggs Nature Preserve near Columbus this beautiful waterfall is located a short walk from the parking area. The boardwalk and observation platform make for an easy hike, although there are steps required to get to the falls.
Interested in seeing more waterfalls in Columbus? Then be sure to check out Indian Run Falls which is a 10 minute drive from Hayden Falls.
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Indian Run Falls in Dublin
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: The waterfall is located along the Indian Run Falls Trail about .25 mile from the parking lot. | Trail Details
Parking: 700 Shawan Falls Dr, Dublin, OH 43017
Easily Accessible. This is a small urban waterfall located just outside of Columbus in Dublin. Follow the trail across the bridges and to the observation deck to get a birds eye view of the falls. There are several side trails that lead all the way down to the bank of the river were you can get a closer view of the falls. Proceed with caution. After enjoying the falls, if you are interested in a longer hike, continue down the Indian Run Falls Trail further and enjoy a peaceful 2 miles (in total) out and back trail.
Interested in seeing more waterfalls in Columbus? Then be sure to check out Hayden Run Falls which is a 10 minute drive from Indian Run Falls.
Rock Mill Waterfall
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: Short walk from the parking lot | Details
Parking: 1429 Rockmill Road NW, Lancaster, OH 43130
Rock Mill falls is an easily accessible waterfall flowing through a gorge in Stebelton Park, one of the Fairfield County Parks near Lancaster, Ohio. The waterfall is a sight to see with many old buildings from the rock mill built in 1799 located right behind it. The falls are beautiful any time of the year, but the winter and fall seasons are the best for pictures and scenery.
Not only is it an easy hike to see the waterfall, but visitors can also visit the rock mill. After its restoration in 2003, the rock mill is fully functioning, with many of the original parts still visible and working. In addition to the mill, a covered bridge also lies just a few feet away, making the Rock Mill waterfall a perfect spot to spend the afternoon.
Cedar Falls at Hocking Hills State Park
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 0.4 miles | Trail Details
Parking: Parking Lot Near Earnhart Rd on 374
Cedar Creek Falls is one of the most photographed waterfalls in Ohio. An astounding 50 feet in length, this is one of the largest waterfall in all of Hocking Hills. Interestingly enough, the falls’ name comes from a misidentification of the Hemlock trees in the area, with pioneers believing them to be cedar.
A beautiful hike out to the waterfall offers great scenery of the forest and also passes by the remains of the old grist mill that stood above the falls in the 1830s. After entering the cove where the waterfall is located, there is another trail that leads to a hike through beautiful rock formations. All in all, Cedar Creek Falls is an astounding waterfall to go visit.
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Upper Falls at Hocking Hills State Park in Logan Ohio
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 1.2 miles | Trail Details
Parking: Hocking Hills State Park Visitor Center Parking Lot
Upper Falls is a picturesque, 20 foot tall waterfall with a stone bridge spanning across the cliffs right above it. The waterfall is on the most popular trails in Hocking Hills, Old Man’s Cave, named after a Hermit who used to live in the cave system.
As you start your hike you will see the rock formations that the trail is famous for. A little further along the hike you’ll see Devil’s Bathtub, a cascade pool that flows under a bridge. At this point, you may continue to the falls or visit the Old Man’s Cave visitor center to learn more about the area around Old Man’s Cave.
Lower Falls at Hocking Hills State Park in Logan Ohio
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 1.2 miles | Trail Details
Parking: Hocking Hills State Park Visitor Center Parking Lot
At 25 feet tall, Lower Falls is a slightly smaller waterfall than Upper Falls. However, many people do not make the hike down to Lower falls and because of this, it is often less crowded than Upper Falls. It’s definitely worth the extra hike because it’s a beautiful waterfall.
Big & Little Lyons Falls Mohican State Park
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 2.3 miles | Trial Details
Parking: Mohican State Park – Campground B – Pleasant Hill Lake Trail, Perrysville, OH 44864
During this hike, you’ll see a covered bridge, two waterfalls, a Pleasant Hill dam and a lot of beautiful scenery. Park in the lot near the bridge, then walk across the bridge to find the start of the trailhead at the edge of the woods on the other side.
Lyons Falls Trail offers a nice and easy hike to the falls. Big Lyons Falls is about a mile from the trailhead and not far beyond that is Little Lyons Falls. Both Big and Little Lyons Falls are slightly smaller yet still beautiful waterfalls.
Ludlow Falls
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: Short walk from parking lot
Parking: Ludlow Falls Parking Lot – 11 Greenville Ave, Ludlow Falls, OH 45339
Ludlow Falls is located under a highway bridge, but despite the proximity of the road, it’s one of the best waterfalls in the area. It’s a short walk down to the falls from the parking lot and if you are feeling adventurous, you can access an old stairway to get down into the creek the waterfall flows into. At almost 60 feet wide, Ludlow Falls is an impressive and easily accessible waterfall.
Dundee Falls
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 2.1 miles | Trail Details
Parking: Beach City Wildlife Area – 8525 Dundee Wilmot Rd NW, Dundee, OH 44624
Dundee Falls is one of the most picturesque and consistent waterfalls in all of Ohio. The 1 mile hike out to the falls is beautiful as the creek cuts through a large sandstone gorge and the trail goes through an impressive forest. The falls is 15 feet high and flows almost everyday of the year. Visit in the winter and you’ll have a chance to see a frozen waterfall!
Fallsville Falls
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 0.7 | Trail Details
Parking: Carytown Rd, Fallsville Falls State Wildlife Area, Ohio
Fallsville Falls is a waterfall located in a town that was previously abandoned, with the only remains being an old mill. The waterfall is on a short and easy 0.7 mile trail which includes a creek and spectacular waterfall. The waterfall is about 15 feet tall and about 25 feet wide during the rainy season.
Cascade Falls at Nelson Kennedy Ledges State Park
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 0.7 | Trail Details
Parking: 12440 Nelson Ledge Rd., Garrettsville, OH 44231
Located at the north end of the park, Cascade Falls is a beautiful 50-foot, low volume waterfall. Be careful to make sure you stay on the trail. There are marked trees and rocks but it is easy to get lost. Parking is available in the Nelson Ledges State Park parking lot. To get to Cascade Falls, cross the street and take the yellow trail to the right.
Parking:
Trail: Yellow Trail
Minnehaha Falls at Nelson Kennedy Ledges State Park
Parking: 12440 Nelson Ledge Rd., Garrettsville, OH 44231
Trail: White Trail
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This small waterfall is thin and doesn’t carry a lot of volume but is still worth checking out because the park itself is so much fun to explore! The water eventually flows into the Gulf of Mexico. Parking is available in the Nelson Ledges State Park parking lot. To get to Minnehaha Falls, cross the street and take the white trail to the left.
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