Visit 7 Breathtaking Waterfalls On A Memorable Road Trip Through Ohio
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. There’s nothing quite like taking a waterfall road trip in Ohio. From the unexpected urban waterfalls to the secluded waterfalls surrounded by nature, the following list showcases some of Ohio’s most beautiful waterfalls. The total trip takes about 10 hours of drive time. We’ve included a link to the Google Map here.
Springtime after frequent rainfall is the best time to visit any waterfall, but these places are really lovely all year long. So plan now to schedule some free time for the ultimate waterfall road trip in Ohio—right here in your very own state.
Located in the heart of the state, Hayden Falls is hidden in a suburb of Columbus and is becoming increasingly popular among locals. The gorge where the falls are located features a boardwalk and overlook area, making the waterfall easily accessible to visitors.
Mohican State Park is home to a pair of low flow falls. Pictured is Big Lyons Falls within a 300-foot deep sandstone gorge. Both of the falls are best seen after heavy rainfall.
Within Cascade Park close to downtown Elyria, impressive waterfalls flow from both the East Branch and West Branch of the Black River. (Pictured are the West Falls.) The 1.2-mile loop trail is a must-do.
5. Brandywine Falls (Cuyahoga Valley National Park)
This breathtaking 65-foot waterfall flows from Brandywine Creek. These beautiful falls are a popular highlight within Ohio's very own national park. Near the falls, the 1.5-mile Brandywine Gorge Trail allows you to explore beyond the waterfall.
The falls at Lanterman's Mill within Youngstown's metro-park are downright charming. Take some time to explore the surrounding park before you leave this stop.
7. Upper Falls, Lower Falls and Cedar Falls (Hocking Hills State Park)
Several beautiful waterfalls can be found along the Old Man's Cave trail within the Hocking Hills State Park. This impressive hiking spot is stunning all year-round, but the falls are best seen after a notable rainfall. (Pictured: Upper Falls.)
What do you think? Are you up for this waterfall road trip in Ohio? How many of these waterfalls have you seen before? Share your thoughts, photos and experiences with us!
Address: Hayden Falls Park, 4326 Hayden Run Rd, Dublin, OH 43017, USA
Address: Indian Run Falls, 700 Shawan Falls Dr, Dublin, OH 43017, USA
Address: Mohican State Park, 3116 OH-3, Loudonville, OH 44842, USA
Address: Cascade Park, 387 Furnace St, Elyria, OH 44035, USA
Address: Brandywine Falls, 8176 Brandywine Rd, Sagamore Hills, OH 44067, USA
Address: Lanterman's Mill, 1001 Canfield Rd, Youngstown, OH 44511, USA
Address: Old Man's Cave Visitor Center, 19988 OH-664 Scenic, Logan, OH 43138, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Waterfall Road Trip In Ohio
November 01, 2019
April Dray
What is the largest waterfall in Ohio?
It can be easily argued that one of the best waterfalls in Ohio might just be Brandywine Falls, because it is the tallest and largest waterfall in Ohio. Cuyahoga Valley National park features other picturesque falls as well, such as Blue Hen Falls. If you want to see multiple waterfalls in one hike, we recommend taking the Old Man’s Cave Loop at Hocking Hills State Park.
Can I see any waterfalls in Ohio without hiking?
Yes, there are serval waterfalls in Ohio you can see without having to hike a trail. You can drive right up to Brandywine Falls and Paine Falls in Painesville. You can also drive right up to the charming Chagrin Falls in the small town of Chagrin Falls. To view a list of other waterfalls in Ohio that require no hiking, you can check out our previous article here.
Can I swim in waterfalls in Ohio?
While hiking in Ohio, it’s prohibited to swim in most waterfalls. Please abide by the state park and metro park policies and pay attention to posted signs. There are several swimming lakes in Ohio, however, both natural and manmade. The best swimming areas in Ohio are lakeside, manmade water parks such as Longs Retreat Family Resort in Latham and Clay’s Park Resort in North Lawerence. These swimming areas feature manmade sandy beaches, water slides, splash pads and other fun amenities.
Address: Hayden Falls Park, 4326 Hayden Run Rd, Dublin, OH 43017, USA
Address: Indian Run Falls, 700 Shawan Falls Dr, Dublin, OH 43017, USA
Address: Mohican State Park, 3116 OH-3, Loudonville, OH 44842, USA
Address: Cascade Park, 387 Furnace St, Elyria, OH 44035, USA
Address: Brandywine Falls, 8176 Brandywine Rd, Sagamore Hills, OH 44067, USA
Address: Lanterman's Mill, 1001 Canfield Rd, Youngstown, OH 44511, USA
Address: Old Man's Cave Visitor Center, 19988 OH-664 Scenic, Logan, OH 43138, USA
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April is the Ohio staff writer for Only in Your State. She is an Ohio native with a Bachelor of Science in Journalism from E.W. Scripps School of Journalism. With more than 10 years of writing experience and a background in news reporting for Ohio newspapers, she's published pieces in multiple print and online publications. When she's not on deadline or chasing after her toddler, she's hunting for hidden gems in Ohio or getting lost in a good book.
