Here in Ohio, you should always go chasing waterfalls. And the bigger the waterfalls you can find, the better. We've mapped out a road trip that takes you to some of the tallest waterfalls in Ohio, including some off the beaten path hidden gems and little-known falls you can practically drive right up to. This waterfall road trip in Ohio covers more than 100 miles of the Buckeye State, and the total drive time clocks in at a little over 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore at each stop. To view a Google Map of the trip in a separate tab or window, click here.
1. Brandywine Falls (Sagamore Hills Township)
Cuyahoga Valley National Park in northeast Ohio is home to a breathtaking 65-foot waterfall that flows from Brandywine Creek. If you’d rather not take the 1.75-mile hike to the falls, you can drive to the upper and lower boardwalks, which are located just off of Brandywine Road. (A boardwalk option without stairs is also available.)
These waterfalls in Ohio are a great place to check out if you’re visiting Cuyahoga Valley National Park!
2. Buttermilk Falls (Boston Mills Township)
You'll actually get to see two waterfalls along this additional stop in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Just a short (but somewhat steep) trek downstream past the beautiful and popular Blue Hen Falls (not pictured), you'll discover the lesser-known Buttermilk Falls (pictured). It stands about 20 ft. tall and it's a best kept secret that's well worth crossing the stream for. This beautiful waterfall in Ohio is a perfect stop on the road trip.
3. Cascade Park West and East Falls (Elyria)
Within Cascade Park close to downtown Elyria, impressive waterfalls flow from both the East Branch and West Branch of the Black River. The falls are connected via a 1.2-mile loop trail that we highly recommending taking if you have the time. West Falls (pictured) is located near the entrance of the park. You'll find the East Falls (not pictured) off of Lake Avenue behind the police station. You can view the East Falls from the observation deck above or hike down the trail to the gorge for a closer look.
Our waterfall road trip in Ohio wouldn’t be complete without these waterfalls!
4. Mill Creek Falls (Cleveland)
Within the city limits of Cleveland you'll find this beautiful waterfall, (also called Cataract Falls of Mill Creek,) off of Warner Rd. If you're feeling up for a walk, you can also park at Garfield Park Reservation and walk about 1.5 miles to the falls. This hidden gem stands 48 ft. tall.
This Ohio waterfall is absolutely beautiful, and well worth the walk.
5. Pain Falls (Painesville)
Paine Falls Park is an underrated metro park with a gorgeous waterfall that’s easily accessible. You can practically drive right up to these falls, which are located less than an a quarter of a mile away from the designated parking area. The falls feature multiple tiers that creature beautiful cascades. After heavy rainfall, the falls flow strong and powerful.
This Ohio waterfall is easy to see: you can drive right up to it!
What do you think? Would you take this waterfall road trip in Ohio? Let us know in the comments below!
For more beautiful waterfalls in Ohio, check out our previous article: The Ultimate Bucket List For Anyone In Ohio Who Loves Waterfall Hikes.
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