Once upon a time, the Cleveland Metroparks – home to the breathtaking Berea Falls – acquired their first piece of land in what would become the park district we know and love today. This piece of land was at the heart of the Rocky River Reservation, a park that grew in response to the demand of nature lovers and preservationists alike. Now at over 2,000 acres in size, this lovely landscape hides a Cleveland Metroparks waterfall that is pure magic in the autumn months. Fill up some water bottles and pack some sweatshirts, because the Berea Falls Scenic Overlook is one of the best places to see fall colors near Cleveland.

On the south side of the Rocky River Reservation is a stunning double-tiered waterfall.
Jason King/Google Images
Berea Falls Scenic Overlook is one of Rocky River Reservation's most cherished landmarks. Here, the mighty flow of our boldest river and the awe-invoking power of an overlook will leave you humbled by the natural world.
This incredible scenic overlook on the West Fork of the Rocky River is one of the most dramatic views in the entirety of the Cleveland Metroparks.
Cleveland Metroparks/Facebook
It is also, like many local landmarks, a tribute to Ohio's natural history. Post-glacial waters initially shaped the exposed pieces of Berea Sandstone, creating a series of drops that create veil-like trickles of water.
This enchanting waterfall is accessed via a short trail, so it is ideal for hikers of all experience levels.
Tim Evanson/Flickr
There's a parking lot right at the edge of the trailhead, so a trip to this waterfall is truly effortless. Experienced hikers will appreciate the scenery of the trail, and families with young children will appreciate the ease of access the trail provides.
Bring a camera, because this fall adventure is one you'll want to remember for years to come. You'll also probably need warm clothing such as coats, hats, gloves, and scarves - Cleveland can get chilly in the autumn months!
Tim Evanson/Flickr
With its 2,579 acres, Rocky River Reservation has much to offer to lovers of nature. It has grown famous in recent years, too, thanks to its fishing opportunities; the Rocky River is one of the best steelhead fishing locations in the nation!

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Behind the waterfall are bridges that are scenic in their own right, and they add an intriguing symmetry to an otherwise erratic landscape.
Cleveland Metroparks/Facebook
These old-school bridges carry trains across the river, reminding visitors that they are still in the Rustbelt despite the serenity of the surroundings. There are a number of bridges throughout the reservation... in fact, the oldest was built in 1821!
Below the falls is a gorge carved out by the Rocky River, and it is every bit as intriguing as the falls themselves.
Essam AlGhamdi/Google Images
The gorge below is especially enchanting in the autumn when it is bathed in rust-colored hues. It's one of the best places to see fall colors near Cleveland.
While Berea Falls is not the tallest of the local waterfalls, it charms each and every visitor it receives.
Tim Evanson/Flickr
Want to visit the largest waterfall in the area? Mill Creek Falls is a slice of paradise located right in town, and its height is impressive. Perhaps even more impressive is that this waterfall is actually man-made. It is an interesting contrast to the petite but mighty Berea Falls.
A trip to this Cleveland waterfall in the autumn is pure magic.
Aaron Gibbons/Google Images
Lace up your hiking boots and pack some trail mix, because this hike is one you'll want to take time and time again. Cleveland in the fall is so gorgeous!

When it comes to outdoor beauty, Berea Falls is truly splendid. As gorgeous and fragile as its trickles seem, this mighty landmark is an enduring nod to Ohio’s glacial history. Which Cleveland Metroparks waterfall is your favorite? Tell us in the comments!

Are you enchanted by waterfalls? You must take a visit to Cascade Park in Elyria, where you’ll find two gorgeous waterfalls.

Berea Falls isn’t the only waterfall in Ohio worth checking out. Ash Cave Waterfall in the Hocking Hills region is almost too beautiful for words. After seeing this video from us at OnlyInYourState, you’ll want to make the three-hour trip from Cleveland ASAP:

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More to Explore

Cleveland In The Fall

Katie Lawrence | August 01, 2023

Which hiking trails in Cleveland are best in the fall?

Northeast Ohio is full of opportunities to get outside and explore, but in our humble opinion, these particular hiking trails in Cleveland are best in the fall:

With over 100,000 plant species, this outdoor oasis is pure heaven any time of year, but fall is arguably the best season to visit. Many of the trees turn colors starting as early as August and by October, the arboretum is a sea of warm hues. Embark on the Murch Canopy Walk, which is elevated 65 feet in the air, for the best views.

With a breathtaking scenic overlook that lets you see for miles, Tinker's Creek Gorge attracts visitors from all over no matter the season - but just wait until you marvel at its magical fall colors.

What are the best fall day trips in Cleveland?

Some of the best fall day trips in Cleveland include:

Boasting a pumpkin patch, hayrides, scavenger hunts, and many more seasonal activities, Pumpkin Pandemonium offers autumn fun for all.

  • Derthick’s Corn Maze & Farm Experience, Mantua

This family-friendly fall festival features a corn maze, a pumpkin patch, two 300-foot ziplines, and more.

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Featured Addresses
Berea Falls Scenic Overlook- Barret Overlook, 136 E Bagley Rd, Berea, OH 44017, USA