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 the most beautiful waterfalls in Ohio. The total trip takes about 10 hours of drive time. We’ve included a link to the Google Map to aid in planning your epic Ohio waterfalls road trip!

Google Maps

1. Hayden Falls (Dublin)

Hayden Falls Park, 4326 Hayden Run Rd, Dublin, OH 43017, USA
Chelsie Beechler/Flickr
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 Hayden Falls easily accessible to visitors.

2. Indian Run Falls (Dublin)

Indian Run Falls, 700 Shawan Falls Dr, Dublin, OH 43017, USA
Scallop Holden/Flickr
Less than 10 minutes from Hayden Falls you'll find this enchanting urban waterfall, which is also located in Dublin.

3. Big (and Little) Lyons Falls (Mohican State Park)

Mohican State Park, 3116 OH-3, Loudonville, OH 44842, USA
Tom Hart/Flickr
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.

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4. West (and East) Falls (Cascade Park)

Cascade Park, 387 Furnace St, Elyria, OH 44035, USA
Chris Capell/Flickr
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)

Brandywine Falls (Cuyahoga Valley National Park)
daveynin/Flickr
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.

6. Lanterman's Falls (Mill Creek Park)

Lanterman's Mill, 1001 Canfield Rd, Youngstown, OH 44511, USA
Jack Pearce/Flickr
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)

Hocking Hills State Park, Logan, OH, USA
Jim Pater/Flickr
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 in the comments below! And don’t forget to take a look at our ultimate hiking essentials packing list if you plan on hitting the trails.

Looking for more? Check out this stunning footage of Hocking Hills:

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More to Explore

Ohio Waterfalls Road Trip

April Dray | November 01, 2019

What is the largest waterfall in Ohio?

Brandywine Falls 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?

Some no-hike waterfalls in Ohio include:

  • Brandywine Falls
  • Chagrin Falls

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 accessible waterfalls in the Buckeye State, you can check out our previous article outlining our top no-hike waterfalls in Ohio. 

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.

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