When spring settles in, northeast Ohio comes back to life this spring, and the effect on locals is undeniably magical. While we’re normally a pleasant bunch, the sunshine and vibrant blooms put us in a particularly wondrous mood. If you’re looking to take advantage of the sunshine and warm weather, look no further than our own National Park. Tucked away inside Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a massive waterfall that’s so worth the visit - that is, if you’re up for a waterfall hike near Cleveland. Dust off those hiking boots, download your free trial of AllTrails+, and let’s explore Brandywine Falls in Northfield, one of the best waterfalls near Cleveland.
Hidden deep in the forest of Cuyahoga Valley National Park is an impressive staircase that leads to a destination unlike any other.
Located near the intersection of 271 and Brandywine Road at 8176 Brandywine Road, Sagamore Hills Township is an impressive 65-foot tall waterfall that cascades over a thinly chunked shale, a remnant from Ohio's days as an ancient ocean.
This dreamy hike will allow you to experience the beauty of Greater Cleveland's landscape up close and personal, and the experience will leave you humbled.
Have you ever taken the best waterfall hike near Cleveland to witness this enchanting cascade? If so, what is your favorite time of year to pay it a visit? Tell us about your experience in the comments!
Picture a hidden hike tucked away in the Cleveland Metroparks where every step reveals a new wonder. Just shy of a mile, Quarry Rock River Trail in South Chagrin Reservation is a journey with breathtaking ledges, a surprising piece of old-school folk art, and the soothing cascade of a river waterfall. Whether you're a seasoned explorer or a casual nature lover, you're going to love the magic that awaits around every corner of this enchanting waterfall hike near Cleveland.
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The Quarry Rock Area in South Chagrin Reservation is something of a local hidden gem.
Located off Solon Road, this stretch of South Chagrin Reservation is stunning all year-round. It's a lovely place to stop for a picnic, as the sound of birdsong and the flowing waters of the mighty Chagrin River set the scene for every visit.
Many visitors may be surprised to learn that this spot, coveted for its scenic views, is also home to a waterfall.
Depending on the water levels, there could be several waterfalls on the river at any given point. However, Quarry Rock Falls is the river's crown jewel, and it's easy to see why. Chunked tiers of shale give the water an almost veil-like cascade, and one that spans the width of the river.
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To reach this beauty, you'll want to take Quarry Rock River Trail, a 0.8-mile out-and-back trail that runs parallel to the Chagrin River.
While the picnic area is popular, the trail doesn't get a ton of foot traffic. You might even have the hike totally to yourself! While the hike is easy, there is a slight elevation gain, so opt for comfy shoes you don't mind getting muddy.
This hike will also bring you face-to-face with the Henry Church Rock, a surprising piece of folk art that's right next to the river.
This is one of my favorite pieces of art in the Cleveland Metroparks. As the name implies, it was carved by Henry Church, a local artist who died in 1908. Carved around 1885, it's amazing to see how well this carving has survived despite over a century in the elements.
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The rock features many distinct little carvings, including an eagle, a papoose, and a serpent encircling a woman.
The meaning of this piece of art was unfortunately taken to the grave. However, locals can't help but wonder what it means. Some think it has to do with the mistreatment of indigenous peoples by settlers, while others think it speaks to life in the United States. Either meaning or neither meaning may be correct... but it's a beautiful spot to sit and reflect at.
Along this hike, visitors will also find bridges and stone stairs.
If you visit in the colder months, be extra careful here! And be sure to bring a hiking buddy regardless of the season. There's much to see along the mile hike, so don't be surprised if you and your hiking party take frequent stops to soak up the surroundings.
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With gorgeous sandstone cliffs and verdant greenery, this hike is truthfully a stunner regardless of the waterfall and local art.
One thing I love about this hike is hearing the flow of the river throughout your walk. The proximity of the trail to the river makes its song something like a soundtrack, adding soothing white noise to a dreamy woodland walk.
You're going to fall in love with this waterfall hike near Cleveland.
Start your adventure at Quarry Rock Picnic Area, 36050 Solon Rd, Bentleyville, OH 44022.
There's no shortage of natural beauty on the Quarry Rock River Trail in South Chagrin Reservation. Did you know there was a waterfall here? What other local waterfalls do you love to visit? Share your thoughts in the comments!
The Chagrin metroparks are full of wonder. Over in North Chagrin Reservation, you'll also love a unique castle hike that sits right next to an old growth forest.
I love a good waterfall. The sound of falling water, the awe-striking power of Mother Nature... they almost seem too exotic for a place like Northeast Ohio. However, if you’re looking for a perfect blend of serene sounds and scenic beauty, you need to know about a hidden gem in Bentleyville, Ohio – Sulphur Springs. Hiding in South Chagrin Reservation off Sulphur Springs Drive, this beautiful little waterfall near Cleveland is just a downstream hike away. AllTrails is a great resource to lean on for your trip to Sulphur Springs Loop, but in the meantime, grab your gear, pack a lunch, and get ready to explore one of the coolest hidden gems near The Land.
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In one unassuming branch of the Cleveland Metroparks, a collection of waterfalls awaits visitors.
That's right! There are actually several waterfalls near Sulphur Springs Picnic Area, and they range in size from five to fifteen feet in height. We're going to be focusing on the very first waterfall on this hike, however – it's right off the Sulphur Springs Picnic Area parking lot, so you might even hear it as soon as you step out of your car.
The first waterfall on the trail is a five-foot buttermilk falls, and it's perfectly picturesque.
Growing up, I loved to go "creeking." You know, standing in a healthy creek and watching as fish swim by, occasionally flipping a rock to see what's living underneath before gently easing it back in place. Whenever I saw flowing water like this, I always expected to find a healthy creek. In addition to all sorts of native critters, you'll also spot gorgeous Bedford Shale in and around Sulphur Springs.
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Bedford Shale is a fascinating feature at the waterfall, and it's one of the many natural resources that makes Northeast Ohio so special.
Bedford Shale was first identified in 1870, and yes, it was named after Bedford, Ohio, though it's also present in Kentucky, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. These rocks are 365 to 358.9 million years old – much older than the dinosaurs – and they come in many different shades, though it's mainly red to a grayish-black in this region. Occasionally, these rocks contain fossils, though they're largely fossil-free.
In Central to Northern Ohio, Devonian fish are common fossils found in the lowest layers of the rock. Interestingly, another type of shale, Cleveland Shale, is also said to be fossil poor, but its lowest layers preserve exceptional and world-famous fossils like those of Dunkleosteus terrella.
Along the 1.9-mile Sulphur Springs Loop, you'll find the same richness in diversity.
A lot has changed since the Devonian era (when Ohio was covered by an ancient ocean), but this area is still delightfully rich in life. Keep your eyes peeled on (and above) the trail, because you never know which local resident will grace you with their presence.
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At 1.9-miles in length, the trail is a bit of a challenge.
With waters that rise during heavy rains, this trail may be flooded or extremely muddy in the spring. You'll cross the stream a few times along the hike, but don't expect many wood or gravel surfaces along this route. Plan to wear hiking boots!
And while spotting the trail can be a especially challenging during the snowy months, it's always a treat to hike.
Keep your eyes peeled for footprints and trail markers, because the latter aren't especially prominent here. However, this is a hike with huge payoffs.
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All along the water, you'll find a variety of waterfalls.
Online sources present a few different numbers when it comes to how many waterfalls are present here. This likely means that some waterfalls are more visibile following heavy rainfall, so if you can, plan to come after the earth has had a few good showers.
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If you don't manage to come when the water is high, don't even sweat it. It's still beautiful!
Whether you take it easy and picnic near the first tiny waterfall or complete the entirety of the trail, you're in for a treat. The serene sounds of flowing water are the perfect backdrop for a day in the Cleveland Metroparks!
No matter the time of year, a hike along Sulphur Springs Loop is incredible.
Be prepared for a bit of mud, but you'll love the payoff. In the spring, gorgeous flowers like trillium pop up around the trail, and there's truly a surprise hiding around every corner.
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There's never a bad time to visit Sulphur Springs Loop in South Chagrin Reservation!
Be sure to have your phone charged. You're going to want a photo with the cutest little waterfall near Cleveland!
This lovely little waterfall near Cleveland is a treat to discover, no matter the season. Have you ever hiked on Sulphur Springs Loop? We'd love to hear about your experience in the comments!
While you're in the area, why not keep chasing waterfalls? The stunning and urban Chagrin Falls waterfall is just a five-minute drive away.
