Ohio nature lovers can’t get enough of our beautiful nature preserves — and it’s not hard to see why. But before you search for “waterfalls near me in Ohio,” you’ll want to read about the following nature preserve hiding in the small town of Yellow Springs. It’s a beloved hiking spot among frequent Ohio explorers. Even if you’re just looking to have a leisurely day hike you can complete within a couple hours or less, Glen Helen Nature Preserve is perfect for your next adventure. With towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls and interesting rock formations, there’s so much to see within this little-known nature preserve.

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Have you ever explored Glen Helen Nature Preserve before? If so, we want to know what your experience was like!

Still wondering about “waterfalls near me in Ohio” that offer great hikes, too? Check out our Ultimate Bucket List For Anyone In Ohio Who Loves Waterfall Hikes!

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waterfalls near me in Ohio

Are there many waterfalls in Ohio?

There are! Ohio is home to both big-name cascades and smaller, seasonal falls. In fact, contrary to what the 90s pop song says, you should chase waterfalls throughout Ohio -- don’t just stick to the rivers and the lakes that you’re used to. You might be surprised to know that Ohio is full of beautiful waterfalls just waiting to be discovered. We’ve compiled a roadmap of some of our favorites in the eastern half of the state for you so you can make a weekend road trip out of it. Must-visit waterfalls on this list include Hayden Falls, Brandywine Falls, Lanterman's Falls, Upper Falls, Lower Falls, and Cedar Falls.

What are some other waterfall hikes in Ohio?

One of our favorite places for waterfall hikes in Ohio is Hocking Hills State Park (it's one of our favorite places in the Buckeye State, period!). If you’ve yet to hike the Old Man’s Cave trails at Hocking Hills State Park in Logan, you’re truly missing out. It’s arguably the most beautiful hiking trail in Ohio -- and it will make you feel like you’re temporarily living in a Lord of the Rings film. Plan a day (or weekend) trip to this stunning park and hike to five waterfalls in just one day. Notable waterfalls in this pristine Ohio park include Upper Falls, The Devil's Bathtub, Broken Rock Falls, and Cedar Falls.

What else can I do at Glen Helen Nature Preserve?

With towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls and interesting rock formations, there’s so much to see within Glen Helen Nature Preserve. Also known as the Glen Helen Ecology Institute, the nature preserve covers 1,000 acres and features a 25-mile network of footpaths that allows visitors to observe 400-year-old trees, limestone cliffs, waterfalls, overhangs, and more. Of course, the waterfall hikes here are sublime, but it's also a wonderful place for wildlife photography and bird watching, as well as creek stomping and picnicking in the warmer months! This Ohio park really is our own little slice of paradise.

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