A Complete Guide to Ohio Hikes & Waterfalls
Explore Ohio's natural wonders with the best hikes and waterfalls. From Hocking Hills to the Cuyahoga Valley, discover all the outdoor adventures waiting to be found in Ohio.
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Have you ever wondered where to find natural beauty in the heart of Ohio? As someone born and raised here, I've had the pleasure of exploring its hidden gems firsthand. From the rolling hills of the countryside to the waterfalls nestled within the forests, Ohio has a lot to do for outdoor lovers. And today, I'm thrilled to invite you on a journey through some of the best hikes and waterfalls to explore this year in Ohio!
But wait! If you aren’t an Ohio native, before you begin your journey, make sure you are prepared. No matter how hard I try, sometimes the unexpected happens, and I have to be ready. That’s why I recommend Nomad Insurance by SafetyWing for anyone considering a life of travel. Their flexible policies cover incidents in over 185 countries, and I don’t need to provide a travel itinerary in advance. In fact, you can sign up for SafetyWing even if you’re already on the go.
Now, let’s go chase those waterfalls!
Hikes & Waterfalls in Ohio
I’m sure youre probably wondering, “Why on earth would I visit Ohio anyway?” And, “Are there really waterfalls?” Growing up only 45 minutes away from Hocking Hills, I was fortunate to have easy access to one of Ohio's most renowned natural wonders. This region in Southern Ohio is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with its hiking trails and waterfalls. It was always one of my favorite places to go in the summertime when I was a kid, and it still is today.
But Ohio's beauty doesn't end there. Beyond Hocking Hills, there are countless other trails and waterfalls waiting to be explored in places like Cuyahoga Valley and Mohican State Park. If you're ready to experience the beauty of the Midwest firsthand, lace up your hiking boots and join me on a journey through some of the best hikes and waterfalls in Ohio!
Hikes
Ohio may not be the first destination that comes to mind for hikers and nature lovers, but this Midwestern state holds a multitude of surprises for outdoor enthusiasts. From the gorges of Hocking Hills to the shores of Lake Erie, there's something for everyone and every skill level. Whether you're seeking a challenging trek or a simple stroll, Ohio's extensive network of trails provides a great escape into nature. Here are some of the best hikes in Ohio:
Old Man's Cave Trail
We will begin the list with one of my personal favorites, Old Man’s Cave Trail. Named after the rock formations that resemble the profile of an old man, this trail is the most popular among visitors to Hocking Hills State Park. During your hike, as you explore, prepare to be mesmerized by waterfalls, towering cliffs, and lush greenery.
Hours: Hocking Hills State Park is open year-round from dawn until dusk.
Length: The Old Man's Cave Trail is approximately 1.5 miles long (round trip). It typically takes 1-2 hours to complete the hike, depending on your pace and time spent exploring.
Difficulty: The trail is considered moderate. While it's relatively short, there are some uneven terrain and stairs along the way. Parts of the trail can be rocky and steep, so sturdy footwear and caution are advised.
Click here for accommodation options in Hocking Hills!
Conkle's Hollow Rim Trail
Conkle's Hollow Rim Trail is another hiking trail within Hocking Hills. It offers views of towering cliffs and verdant forests. Look for unique rock formations and rare plant species.
Hours: Hocking Hills State Park is typically open from dawn until dusk year-round. It's always a good idea to verify the park's official website's current hours of operation.
Length: The Conkle's Hollow Rim Trail is approximately 2.5 miles long (round trip). The hike usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how much time you spend exploring.
Difficulty: The trail is considered moderate. While it's relatively short, there are some steep sections and uneven terrain, particularly along the rim of the gorge. Sturdy footwear is recommended.
Ash Cave Trail
Another personal favorite hike in Ohio is Ash Cave Trail. It's known for one of Ohio's most iconic natural wonders: a magnificent horseshoe-shaped waterfall cascading over the hills.
Location: Ash Cave is located within Hocking Hills State Park in Logan, Ohio. The park's address is 19852 Ohio 664, Logan, OH 43138.
Length: The hike to Ash Cave is approximately 0.25 miles one way, making it a total round trip of about 0.5 miles. The trail is relatively short and can typically be completed in 30 minutes.
Difficulty: The trail to Ash Cave is considered easy and suitable for all skill levels and ages. The path is wide, well-maintained, and primarily flat, with only a slight incline as you approach the cave. It's also accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
Brandywine Falls Trail
Head north towards Cleveland and prepare to be enchanted by the beauty of Brandywine Falls Trail. Located within Cuyahoga Valley National Park, this trail winds through forests and streams before ending in the sight of Brandywine Falls. Marvel at the power of the waterfall as you take in the views.
Hours: Cuyahoga Valley National Park is typically open from dawn until dusk year-round. However, it's always a good idea to verify the park's official website for current hours of operation.
Length: The hike to Brandywine Falls is approximately 1.5 miles round trip. The trail is relatively short and takes around 30 minutes to an hour to complete, depending on your pace.
Difficulty: The trail to Brandywine Falls is considered easy to moderate and suitable for most skill levels and ages. While the path is well-maintained and relatively flat, there are some stairs and uneven terrain, particularly near the waterfall overlook.
Check out this tour for a guided experience of the Cuyahoga Valley.
Gorge Overlook Trail
Another hidden gem of the Cuyahoga Valley is the Gorge Overlook Trail. Offering panoramic views of the Cuyahoga River Gorge, this trail is perfect for those seeking a challenging trek with plenty of photo opportunities. Be sure to bring your camera!
Hours: Cuyahoga Valley National Park is open from dawn until dusk year-round. However, it's always a good idea to verify current hours of operation online.
Length: The Gorge Overlook Trail is approximately 1.8 miles round trip. The trail is short and typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how much time you spend enjoying the view.
Difficulty: The Gorge Overlook Trail is considered easy to moderate and suitable for most skill levels and ages. While the path is well-maintained and mostly flat, there are some uphill sections and stairs, particularly near the overlooks.
Click here for accommodation options in the Cuyahoga Valley!
Hemlock Bridge Trail
Next, Hemlock Bridge Trail is definitely one of the best hikes in Ohio. Located within Mohican State Park, this trail winds its way through hemlock trees and babbling brooks, offering a peaceful escape from everyday life. Remember to pause and admire the charming Hemlock Covered Bridge!
Hours: Mohican State Park is typically open from dawn until dusk year-round. However, it's always a good idea to verify current hours of operation online.
Length: The Hemlock Bridge Trail is approximately 1.5 miles long (round trip). The trail is relatively short and typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how much time you spend exploring.
Difficulty: The Hemlock Bridge Trail is easy to moderate and suitable for most skill levels. While the path is well-marked and relatively flat, there are some moderate inclines and uneven terrain along the way. Caution should be exercised in wet or muddy conditions.
Ledges Trail
Lastly, prepare to be dazzled by the Ledges Trail. Nestled within Cuyahoga Valley National Park, this trail is one of the best in Ohio. Keep an eye out for geological features and native wildlife as you explore.
Hours: Cuyahoga Valley National Park is typically open from dawn until dusk year-round. However, it's always a good idea to verify current hours of operation online.
Length: The Ledges Trail is approximately 2.2 miles long (round trip). The trail is relatively moderate and takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how much time you spend enjoying the scenery.
Difficulty: The Ledges Trail is moderate in difficulty and suitable for most skill levels. While the path is well-marked and mostly flat, there are some rocky and uneven sections, particularly as you ascend the ledges. Caution should be exercised.
Waterfalls
Now, let’s ignore TLC’s advice and chase that waterfall! Ohio is full of waterfalls dotted around the state and is located with the natural beauty of the state. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer seeking out hidden gems or looking for a spot to reconnect with nature, these waterfalls are sure to leave you spellbound. Here are some of the best waterfalls in Ohio!
If you need a rental car for your adventure, click here!
Brandywine Falls
To begin, let’s travel north to the beauty of Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Brandywine Falls is a majestic sight to behold, tumbling over limestone cliffs and plunging 65 feet into a gorge below. It’s also the most famous waterfall in Ohio.
How to Get There: From the parking lot off Brandywine Road, it's a short walk on a well-marked trail to reach the viewing platform for Brandywine Falls. The trail is accessible and suitable for visitors of all ages.
Price: There is no entrance fee to visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park or to view Brandywine Falls. The park is open to the public free of charge.
Accessibility: The viewing platform for Brandywine Falls is accessible via a short, paved trail from the parking lot. There are also stairs leading down to an additional viewing area.
Cedar Falls
My personal favorite and a place I went to a lot when I was growing up is Cedar Falls in Hocking Hills. As you follow the trails through the foliage, you'll be rewarded with the sight of water cascading over cliffs into a pool below. Be sure to do a mud mask for a bit of self-care!
How to Get There: Cedar Falls can be reached via the Cedar Falls Trail, which begins at the Cedar Falls parking area off OH-374. From the parking lot, it's a moderate hike of approximately 0.5 miles to reach the falls.
Price: There is no entrance fee to visit Hocking Hills State Park or to view Cedar Falls. The park is open to the public free of charge.
Accessibility: The Cedar Falls Trail is a moderately challenging hike with some uneven terrain and stairs. While the trail may not be suitable for those with mobility limitations, the falls can still be viewed from the viewing areas near the trail.
Upper & Lower Falls
Located within the Old Man's Cave area in Hocking Hills, Upper and Lower Falls are a stunning duo of waterfalls in the park. Whether you're watching at the towering cliffs of Upper Falls or taking a refreshing dip in the pools below Lower Falls, this spot offers a true escape into nature.
How to Get There: The Upper Falls can be reached via the Upper Falls Trail, which begins at the Upper Falls parking area off of OH-664. From the parking lot, it's a hike of approximately 0.25 miles to reach the falls.
The Lower Falls can be reached via the Lower Falls Trail, which begins at the Lower Falls parking area off of OH-664. From the parking lot, it's a moderate hike of approximately 0.25 miles to reach the falls.
Accessibility: The Upper Falls Trail is an easy hike with some uneven terrain. While it may not be suitable for those with mobility limitations, the falls can still be viewed from the viewing areas near the trail.
The Lower Falls Trail is a relatively easy hike with some uneven terrain. While the trail may not be suitable for those with mobility limitations, the falls can still be viewed from the viewing areas near the trail.
Blue Hen Falls
Next, one of the best waterfalls in Ohio is another within Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Blue Hen Falls is surrounded by towering hemlock trees and offers a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
How to Get There: Blue Hen Falls can be reached via the Blue Hen Falls Trail, which begins at the trailhead off Boston Mills Road. From the parking lot, it's a moderate hike of approximately 0.5 miles to reach the falls.
Price: There is no entrance fee to visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park or to view Blue Hen Falls. The park is open to the public free of charge.
Accessibility: The Blue Hen Falls Trail is a moderately challenging hike with uneven terrain and stairs. While the trail may not be suitable for those with mobility limitations, the falls can still be viewed from the areas near the trail.
Great Falls
Last but not least on our list of the best waterfalls in Ohio is Great Falls. Great Falls is a true natural wonder, located within Tinkers Creek Gorge Scenic Overlook in Bedford Reservation. As you gaze upon the waters plunging into the rocky gorge below, you'll be awestruck by the sheer power and beauty of this waterfall.
How to Get There: Great Falls at Tinkers Creek can be accessed via the Gorge Parkway Trailhead off of Gorge Parkway in Bedford. From the trailhead, it's a short hike to reach the falls, with signage to guide you along the way.
Price: There is no entrance fee to visit the Cleveland Metroparks or to view Great Falls at Tinkers Creek. The park is open to the public free of charge.
Accessibility: The trail to Great Falls at Tinkers Creek is relatively accessible, but there may be some uneven terrain and stairs near the falls. It's recommended to wear sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots and use caution in wet conditions.
For an up-close and personal map guide to help you plan your adventure even further, get my interactive map and full Travel Guide for hikes and waterfalls in Ohio in Ali’s Happy Office travel shop.
Ohio may not be the first destination that comes to mind for outdoor enthusiasts, but it actually offers a surprising array of hiking trails and waterfalls waiting to be discovered. From the gorges of Hocking Hills to the beauty of Cuyahoga Valley National Park, there is no shortage of natural wonders here. Take it from a native: Ohio's trails have something for everyone!