The Ultimate Bucket List For Anyone In Cleveland Who Loves Waterfall Hikes
On the lookout for some of the best hikes in Cleveland and its neighboring communities? Why not combine your next stroll with an extra dash of natural wonder: a waterfall? After all, there’s something humbling about waterfalls. The power and majesty they possess have the ability to make us feel like a tiny piece of the universe, awe-struck before something just as serendipitous as but more everlasting than ourselves. Waterfalls, additionally, are simply visually stunning, adding an ironic hint of softness to bold, vibrant environments. When you’re searching for day trips in Cleveland and beyond, we’ve got you covered.
Our city is unique in that Cleveland and its surrounding suburbs feature countless waterfalls — and many of them are on public property and easily accessible. When you’re ready to plot your next outing, read about the best hikes in Cleveland and beyond for those who adore waterfalls.
Ready to go chasing waterfalls? This road trip will immerse you in total beauty.
Valley Parkway's expanse is simply overflowing with natural splendor, and one of its greatest features can be found on the Rocky River. Berea Falls was formed by glacial activity, like many local waterfalls were, and it reveals chunks of Berea sandstone beneath its powerful waters. You'll be swept away by the beauty of this unique spot.
Not only is this waterfall the tallest man-made cascade in Cleveland... it's the tallest waterfall in Cuyahoga County. Period. This 48-foot-tall treasure was created when a railroad company diverted the flow of this creek, redirecting its course to trickle down this stunning stone wall. The effect is one of the most impressive waterfalls in this part of the state, and one of the greatest urban wonders hiding within city limits. We told you you wouldn't have to travel too far to experience a waterfall adventure!
3. Old Boating Pond Bridge, Garfield Park Reservation
Garfield Park Reservation, 11350 Broadway Ave, Garfield Heights, OH 44125, USA
This miniature man-made trickle is located in Garfield Park Reservation beneath a New Deal-era bridge. The New Deal was a series of public work projects designed to reinvigorate local economies following the Great Depression. Here in Cleveland, this movement resulted in dramatic murals, landscaping, and stonework, the latter of which resulted in these fabulous mini waterfalls right in Garfield Park Reservation. Nature fans and history buffs alike will have a blast here.
4. Chippewa Creek Gorge in Brecksville Reservation
Tucked near the mouth of the Route 82 entrance to Brecksville Reservation is a gorge that one could, admittedly, easily overlook. Its splendor is a mystery from the road, but upon approach, you will find a petite waterfall tucked beneath a scenic bridge. This gorge was created by the glaciers that once populated our landscape, and its expanse continues to be shaped by water to this day. Don't let this Greater Cleveland waterfall fly under your radar.
North Chagrin Reservation is delightfully forested, but visitors may find an unexpected sound bouncing off of the trees: the rush of moving water. Nearby, you'll find an actual sandstone castle, an impressive edifice made out of the very material that this scenic waterfall is trickling over. This park, you'll find, is nothing short of a dream.
6. Bridal Veil Falls in Bedford Reservation
Bedford Reservation, 18753 Egbert Rd, Bedford, OH 44146, USA
So named for its veil-like appearance, Bridal Veil Falls is one of the most delicate waterfalls anywhere near Cleveland. This gentle, lacy trickle of Deerlick Creek is a coveted photography destination, as its picturesque bridge and hardwood-lined expanse is downright dreamy in every season. Whether you drop by in the middle of summer or the dead of winter, you'll want to explore this gorgeous locale.
7. Great Falls of Tinker's Creek in Bedford Reservation
Bedford Reservation is a gorgeous park, and, once upon a time, it was a lovely natural fuel source for area industry. The Great Falls of Tinker's Creek fueled early mills, and evidence of these and an old school viaduct still remain in the form of ruins and discarded bricks. These falls are impressive, and they are surrounded by rocks that allow daredevils to get up close and personal with the falls. Bring along your camera, as you'll want to snap a few photos of this site.
8. Quarry Rock Falls in South Chagrin Reservation
Quarry Rock Picnic Area, 36000-, 36050 Solon Rd, Bentleyville, OH 44022, USA
Once you pull into the parking lot of the Quarry Rock Picnic Area you'll be treated to the tantalizing sound of water rushing nearby. These falls can vary from a gentle trickle to a roaring cascade, depending on recent rainfall. Waterfalls are an abundant resource in this park, and others can be found on Sulphur Springs Creek and the Chagrin River near Squaw Rock.
We can't imagine a better place to help round out our ultimate waterfall hike bucket list in Greater Cleveland.
Now that you’re tuned in to some of the best hikes in Cleveland and the immediate vicinity for waterfall fanatics, it’s time to start planning! Which of these spots will make it onto your next family outing itinerary? We know that this list only scratches the surface when it comes to beautiful natural attractions in Cleveland, so share your other day trip destinations in Cleveland by completing our nomination form or leaving us a Facebook comment.
Address: Chippewa Creek Gorge, Brecksville, OH 44141, USA
Address: Buttermilk Falls, Brecksville, OH 44141, USA
Address: Quarry Rock Picnic Area, 36000-, 36050 Solon Rd, Bentleyville, OH 44022, USA
Address: Tinkers Creek, Ohio, USA
Address: Mill Creek Falls, Cleveland, OH 44105, USA
Address: Rocky River, OH 44116, USA
Address: Bedford Reservation, 18753 Egbert Rd, Bedford, OH 44146, USA
Address: Garfield Park Reservation, 11350 Broadway Ave, Garfield Heights, OH 44125, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Best Hikes In Cleveland
June 15, 2022
Sophie Boudreau
Are there any other must-visit hiking trails in Cleveland?
Waterfall hikes have their delights, but there are loads of other places to stretch your legs throughout Greater Cleveland — whether or not you’re chasing waterfalls. If you’re particularly keen on trails that won’t leave you feeling overexerted, you’ll want to learn about the best short hikes in Cleveland, ranging from a loop trail at Bedford Reservation to a charming hike within North Chagrin Reservation. These spots make for ideal family day trips.
Speaking of family, are there any kid-friendly hikes in Cleveland?
If you’ve got little ones, you know that they don’t always make for the perfect hiking companions. Between fatigue, potentially challenging terrain, and unpredictable weather, it can be tough to bring children along on your trail outings. Luckily, there are plenty of kid-friendly hikes in Cleveland and its neighboring areas — including the Wake Robin Boardwalk Trail and the Mayfield Village Wetlands Trail. You’ll be having fun with the whole crew in no time!
What are some other outdoor activities in Cleveland?
For those who appreciate fresh air, Greater Cleveland has loads to offer. While the city might not be as famous for its natural beauty as other regions of the country, its outdoor charms are nearly unlimited. We’ve put together a Cleveland nature bucket list for those who want to dive into the area’s natural attractions headfirst — and those who follow our suggestions will experience everything from botanical gardens to picnic sites. What are you waiting for? Get exploring!
Address: Chippewa Creek Gorge, Brecksville, OH 44141, USA
Address: Buttermilk Falls, Brecksville, OH 44141, USA
Address: Quarry Rock Picnic Area, 36000-, 36050 Solon Rd, Bentleyville, OH 44022, USA
Address: Tinkers Creek, Ohio, USA
Address: Mill Creek Falls, Cleveland, OH 44105, USA
Address: Rocky River, OH 44116, USA
Address: Bedford Reservation, 18753 Egbert Rd, Bedford, OH 44146, USA
Address: Garfield Park Reservation, 11350 Broadway Ave, Garfield Heights, OH 44125, USA
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Nikki is a lifelong Ohioan with a love for literature. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Akron and has enjoyed publishing her written work since 2007. She has a love of travel and does so frequently, though she believes that home is where the heart is - she continues to work in and around Cleveland as a digital content specialist to this day, working on everything from commercial scripts and social media posts to grassroots marketing initiatives.
