With some of the oldest parks in the area (and the country) Columbus residents have long been lucky to stroll through these incredible areas. Of course, our Metro Parks system is amazing and it gets a ton of love from everyone, including us.

But the Columbus Recreation and Parks system isn’t too shabby either and it’s often overlooked. From the timeless classics that have been around for well over a century to parks that protect endangered plant life, we’ve got some really amazing spaces to explore in this city.

So put on your walking shoes, grab a pal, and let’s go take advantage of some of the best parks this city has to offer.

The GOATs

Schiller Park

Established in 1857, Schiller Park is the second oldest park in the City of Columbus. The park was originally called Stewart’s Grove by early settlers. It was renamed City Park until 1891 when it was renamed Schiller Park after Friedrich von Schiller, a famous German Poet. Due to anti-German sentiment during World War I, the park was renamed Washington Park, although the name reverted to Schiller after the war.

The park serves as a central gathering space for the German Village neighborhood. It’s 23.5 acres, offering a community center, picnic areas, a fishing pond, an outdoor stage, tennis courts, basketball courts, playgrounds, and more.

Schiller Park is also home to two Champion Trees, a Biltmore ash (found here) and a Wych elm (found here). The Champion Trees program identifies and promotes the oldest and largest trees of each species in each state and the country as a whole.

Location: 1069 Jaeger St, Columbus, OH 43206

Goodale Park

Nestled in Victorian Village, Goodale Park is the oldest park in Columbus. In fact, it’s one of the oldest parks in the United States. The 40-acre site was donated to the city by Dr. Lincoln Goodale in 1851. Over 650 trees call the park home, including two Champion Trees, a Chinese catalpa, and a Smoothleaf elm.

During the Civil War, the park served briefly as a staging area for Union troops known as Camp Jackson. Those operations were moved to Camp Chase, but some permanent examples of that era remain, including the Goodale Gates.

Today, the park offers visitors a scenic place to spend an afternoon with a gazebo, tennis courts, walking paths, a playground, a pond with a stunning fountain, and more. The park is home to many events throughout the year, including festivals and live performances.

Location: 120 W Goodale St, Columbus, OH 43215

Stunning Garden Parks

Topiary Garden

Have you ever wondered what it would look like if a city park and a museum were combined? The Topiary Garden Park is located in the downtown Discovery District, and it’s a perfect example of what happens when you mix art and nature. The garden is a living recreation of Georges Seurat’s famous painting, A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of LaGrande Jatte.

The concept was conceived and sculpted by Columbus artists James and Elaine Mason in 1989. Over the years, the park has been featured in National Geographic, Life, The Wall Street Journal, and more.

Long before it became the Topiary Garden, the park was known as the Old Deaf School Park. That’s because the land that the park sits on used to house the dormitory and campus of the adjacent Deaf School in the early 19th century. The park is free and open to the public year-round.

Location: 480 E Town St, Columbus, OH 43215

Park of Roses

Founded in 1953, the Columbus Park of Roses is an absolute gem. Located on 13 acres within Whetstone Park, the Park of Roses is home to 11,000 beautiful roses. There’s nowhere else in Columbus like the Park of Roses when it’s in bloom.

There are different garden areas within the park where you can view different types of roses, including the Main Rose Garden, the Heritage Garden, the Earth-Kind Rose Garden, the Herb Garden, and the Perennial Garden.

The Park of Roses is open every day, year-round, and admission is free. The roses are typically in bloom between mid-June and mid-September.

Location: 3901 N High St, Columbus, OH 43214

Hidden Gems

Frank Fetch Park

 

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I’m a sucker for pocket parks, and Frank Fetch Memorial Park is one of my favorites. The park is located in German Village and it was designed to resemble the Social Gartens of Munich. The park kind of has a beer garden vibe, with picnic tables to enjoy meals and benches to sit and read.

It’s a charming little spot that perfectly captures the essence of German Village. There are even gas lamps that offer flickering lights. The park is especially charming around Christmas when it’s all decked out for the holidays.

Location: 228 E Beck St, Columbus, OH 43206

Hayden Falls Nature Preserve

This stunning waterfall park is located within Griggs Nature Preserve on the west side of the Scioto River. On the upper level of the park, you’ll find picnic tables and a small parking lot. If you take the boardwalk down the steps, you’ll get a fantastic view of Hayden Falls.

The area surrounding the 35-foot waterfall is home to an incredible ecosystem that includes rare and endangered plants. When you’re visiting, it may be tempting to climb on the rocks surrounding the falls, but don’t give in. It’s important to give endangered plant species the space they need to grow and thrive.

Location: 4326 Hayden Run Rd, Dublin, OH 43017

Get Your Steps In

Antrim Park

 

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Whether you’re looking to fish for rainbow trout or take a run along the Olentangy Greenway Trail, Antrim Park is the perfect place to get out and stretch your legs. It’s one of the most popular parks for running, walking, and biking in Columbus. The park was a gift from the Antrim family back in 1970 and it consists of nearly 120 acres.

The quarried lake is a great spot for fishing, but there is no boating or swimming allowed. You’ll just have to admire the beauty of the space from shore.

Location: 5800 Olentangy River Rd, Columbus, OH 43085

Scioto Mile

Stretching along the east bank of the Scioto River, the promenade along the Scioto Mile connects Battelle Riverfront Park and Bicentennial Park.

The Promenade itself features a beautiful stone colonnade with swings, park benches, gardens, and tables where visitors can play card games or chess. Of course, there’s nowhere better to be on a hot summer day than enjoying the massive Fountain.

There is a historic limestone balustrade that was originally built as part of a flood wall in the 1920s that has been completely restored. Throughout the Scioto Mile, there are several points of interest for visitors, including Huntington Plaza, Coleman’s Pointe, the Lower River Walk, and my favorite, the Prow. In The Prow, visitors will find a grove of birch trees, lantern lighting, and stone benches all on this unique riverfront overlook.

Location: 233 S Civic Center Dr, Columbus, OH 43215

All Columbus Recreation and Parks Department Parks are open year-round. For more info, you can visit columbus.gov/recreationandparks.

The post The Most Vital Columbus Parks You Need To Visit That Aren’t Metro Parks appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

Columbus has some truly incredible parks and pieces of nature, but within a short drive, you can be transported to a wild wonderland.

The area that makes up Hocking Hills State Park was first protected back in 1910, and Ohioans and visitors have been enjoying the beauty and serenity of the place ever since. Whether it is your first visit or you’ve been going for years, planning a trip to Hocking Hills can be a little overwhelming.

There’s so much to do and see that even a weekend trip can leave you feeling like you didn’t get to see everything that the area has to offer. But with a little planning, you can have an incredible visit that will leave you counting down the days until you return. Let’s dive in!

Quick Facts About Hocking Hills

Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Hocking Hills State Park is the centerpiece of this beautiful region. The park features towering cliffs, waterfalls, and hemlock-shaded gorges that are perfect for a hike in every season.

Hocking Hills State Park consists of six separate areas encompassing an impressive 2,000 acres. There’s an additional nearly 10,000 acres of state forest that surround the park.

The park is open year-round to visitors, from dawn to dusk, and there are frequent events held at the park like special hikes and seasonal events. There’s so much to love about this majestic, wild place, so let’s dive in.

Where To Stay in Hocking Hills

Hocking Hills State Park is certainly a doable day trip from Columbus. But if you want the full experience, giving yourself enough time to see all of the sights and enjoy the nature, you’ll probably want to stay overnight.

Hocking Hills Park Lodge

Camping

If you are looking for a more rustic experience, you can take advantage of the park’s hike-in campsites. There are no roads to these campsites, just a 1/2 mile hike with all of your gear.

Cabins & Unique Accomodations

In addition to the cabins that are available to rent through the campground, there are also some amazing private cabins and Airbnbs you can stay at.

Whether you’re looking for a massive lodge-style retreat complete with its own private heated waterfall or a more modern stay at a stunning A-frame, the area really has some incredible accommodations.

READ MORE: The Best Cabins In Hocking Hills

The Best Places To Eat & Drink In Hocking Hills

If you’ve come to the hills to enjoy local libations, you’re in luck. Hocking Hills is home to several wineries and breweries and even a moonshine distillery.

Although there are some great places to eat, the area is fairly rural. Additional dining can be found in the nearby towns of Nelsonville, Logan, and Lancaster.

READ MORE: The Best Hocking Hills Restaurants

Best Things To Do in Hocking Hills

Nature Preserves and State Parks: The main feature of Hocking Hills is the great outdoors. In addition to Hocking Hills State Park, you can also visit Hocking State Forest, Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve, Lake Logan State Park, and Rockbridge State Nature Preserve. Top highlights of Hocking Hills State Park include Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave, Cantwell Cliffs, Rock House, and Cedar Falls.

Lakes: Lake Logan, located within Hocking Hills State Park, is two miles long. The lake was built in 1955 for recreational purposes and visitors can enjoy hiking, boating, and swimming.

Boating: Throughout the state park, there are various places where visitors can enjoy canoeing, kayaking and rafting.

Rock Climbing and Rappelling: Within Hocking State Forest, almost 100 acres of forest land have been set aside for rock climbing and repelling.

Air Tours: Get a different view of Hocking Hills as you soar through the sky with Hocking Hills Scenic Air Tours, which offers airplane rides with jaw-dropping visuals.
MORE: Take To The Skies For A Stunning Hocking Hills Fall Adventure

Horseback Riding: Whether you are visiting the park with your own horse, or you’d like to book a horseback riding excursion, there are plenty of trails throughout the park that you can enjoy on horseback.

Train Rides: The Hocking Valley Scenic Railway gives visitors a glimpse into the transportation and industrial history of the Hocking Hills area. It’s a great tour to take when the leaves begin to change, as the area is totally transformed.
MORE: This Train Through Hocking Valley Is The Perfect Way To Experience Fall In Ohio

Canopy Tours: Hocking Hills Canopy Tours is an outdoor zipline tour offering three different rides: a SuperZip, Nightflight, and traditional canopy tour.

Astronomy: One of the most amazing things about Hocking Hills has to be the John Glenn Astronomy Park. Named after Ohio’s own astronaut and US Senator John Glenn, the astronomy park opened back in 2018 and frequently hosts special events. Stargazing is unparalleled there, due to the low light pollution of the region.

Relax: Whether it’s a massage at Glenlaural Inn or an afternoon sweating it out in the sauna.
MORE: These Amazing Sauna Pods Are A Fantastic Way To Relax In Hocking Hills

Featured image: Old Man’s Cave, Hocking Hills State Park. Photo via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

The post The Ultimate Guide To Visiting Hocking Hills From Columbus appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

I did a lot of daydreaming about escaping suburban Columbus life for somewhere a little more magical, like Narnia or Middle Earth. What I didn’t realize at the time is that Ohio has some pretty darn magical places that are a lot easier to get to.

Hocking Hills is a place with a special kind of magic. The beauty of nature is on full display down there, and the great outdoors has never been such a wonderful way to escape everyday life. If you’re looking for a challenging hike that rewards you with magnificent scenery, then you need to plan a day to visit Cantwell Cliffs.

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Located in Rockbridge, Cantwell Cliffs features a deep valley, imposing cliffs, and a stunning rock shelter where you can cool off and enjoy the views. The trail itself is short, just about 1 mile, but the journey is challenging.

A less popular destination than its nearby neighbor Old Man’s Cave, the trail at Cantwell Cliffs truly makes you feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere. The narrow stone staircases and winding passageways transport you to another world, one where Mother Nature is queen.

Years of erosion caused the steep cliffs, the rock shelter, and the valley where they reside. The hike isn’t recommended for families with young children as some of the areas are quite narrow, steep, and all-around challenging to navigate, so keep that in mind when you’re planning your visit.

READ MORE: The Best Things To Do In Hocking Hills

When heading out for a hike, safety is a priority. Make sure you’re wearing appropriate footwear and feel adequately prepared for hiking. Additionally, if we want places like Cantwell Cliffs to stay magical for every visitor, it’s important to keep the place clean.

That means you should leave no trace of your visit, aka everything you take with you on the trail needs to come back out with you.

Cantwell Cliffs is located at Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio 374, Rockbridge, OH 43149. The trail typically takes about 40 minutes to hike and you can get more info about visiting right here.

Featured image: Brian Wolfe | Flickr

The post A Visit To Cantwell Cliffs Is Like Taking A Hike Through A Magical Wonderland appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

The Unique Sand Dunes

One of the most incredible aspects of Oak Openings is undoubtedly its sand dunes.

While you won’t find towering dunes like those at the Great Sand Dunes National Park, Ohio’s sand dunes are special in their own right. These pockets of sand, remnants of an ancient shoreline, are tucked into a landscape of prairie woodland trees and brush, creating a unique and surprising sight.

The Sand Dunes Trail is an adventure waiting to be explored. Starting at the Mallard Lake pavilion and playground parking area next to the Buehner Center, the Red Trail winds through the woods, revealing sandy patches that seem to appear out of nowhere.

The dry, hot dunes are dotted with prickly-pear cactus, wild lupine, and sand cherry, contrasting sharply with the nearby orchids thriving in the wetter areas.

As you hike, keep an eye out for animal tracks in the sand, especially after a rain. Benches along the ridge provide perfect spots to sit and take in the unique landscape. It’s a place where every step reveals something new, making it a favorite among photographers and nature lovers.

Step Back in Time

The history of Oak Openings is as fascinating as its landscape. Pioneers named the area for its widely spaced oak trees that made travel easier compared to the dense Great Black Swamp they had to traverse to get there. Today, those same oaks still stand, a living link to the past.

The Treehouse Village

For a truly immersive experience, spend a night (or two) in Oak Openings’ Treehouse Village.

This unique spot offers a whimsical and adventurous way to connect with nature. The treehouses range from cozy one-room retreats to multi-level structures that can accommodate larger groups. Elevated walkways and rope bridges connect the treehouses, adding an extra layer of excitement.

Staying in a treehouse is like stepping into a storybook. You’ll wake up to the sounds of birdsong and the rustling of leaves, high above the ground. It’s an experience that brings out the inner child in everyone and creates unforgettable memories.

A Haven for Wildlife

Oak Openings is not just about sand dunes and treehouses.

It’s also a paradise for wildlife, particularly for bird enthusiasts. The park is a nesting ground for bluebirds, indigo buntings, whippoorwills, and lark sparrows. During the spring migration, it becomes a hotspot for birdwatchers hoping to catch a glimpse of traveling songbirds.

The park’s diverse habitats support a wide variety of plants and animals. From the stands of isolated pine and spruce to the wetlands and oak savannas, every part of Oak Openings is teeming with life. The Nature Conservancy once named this sandy region one of the 200 “Last Great Places on Earth,” a testament to its ecological significance.

Trails for Every Adventurer

With over 70 miles of trails, Oak Openings offers something for everyone. Whether you’re into hiking, biking, or horseback riding, you’ll find trails that suit your style. The park features a dedicated cross-country ski trail and a popular singletrack mountain bike trail, catering to adventurers of all kinds.

Plan Your Visit

Whether you’re looking to explore the unique sand dunes, spend a night in a treehouse, or simply enjoy a hike through diverse ecosystems, Oak Openings Metro Park has something for everyone. It’s a place where nature, history, and adventure come together, making it one of Ohio’s most remarkable outdoor destinations.

For more info, head over to metroparkstoledo.com.

The post Explore Ohio’s Hidden Sand Dunes At Oak Openings Preserve appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

This geological marvel, with its strikingly vibrant blue water and mysterious allure, became a beloved tourist destination throughout much of the 20th century. Though the Blue Hole has been closed to the public for nearly three decades, its history and the legends surrounding it continue to intrigue those who long for a glimpse into Ohio’s unique natural heritage.

The Castalia Blue Hole is a freshwater cenote, a type of water-filled sinkhole that forms in regions with limestone bedrock.

The Blue Hole first caught the attention of the public in the 1920s when it was opened as a tourist attraction.

Despite its popularity, the Blue Hole’s days as a tourist attraction were numbered.

However, for those eager to experience a piece of this natural wonder, there’s still hope.

MORE LIKE THIS: 27 Hidden Spots & Natural Wonders Around Ohio You Need To Explore

The post What Happened to Ohio’s Famed Bottomless Blue Hole? appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

The city’s Pollinator Documentation Program is looking for volunteers (aka Planeteers) to help monitor pollinators and plant health in green spaces across Columbus.

That means learning how to identify native and invasive species, using the iNaturalist app to track observations, and walking a set route through prairie habitats like the one tucked inside Whetstone Park.

The city’s data collection efforts are already helping shape how habitats are maintained. Volunteers play a key role in documenting species across 37 sites, and the training sessions are open to anyone curious about nature and conservation.

Before attending a training session, volunteers should:

The next Planeteer training takes place Tuesday, August 12 from 6–7 p.m. at 3923 N. High St. You can sign up for the training here.

If you’re more of a hands-in-the-dirt type, Pollinator Field Day is coming up.

Taking place on Saturday, August 23 from 10 a.m.–12 p.m. at the same location, this event focuses on removing invasive species and giving the Whetstone Park prairie some much-needed care.

All supplies are provided, so just wear clothes you don’t mind getting messy. And as a bonus, volunteers are encouraged to stick around after for Columbus ArborFest, which kicks off right after with food trucks, vendors, giveaways, and tree-themed fun.

Whether you want to gather data or dig into the soil, these events are a great way to support local biodiversity. It’s a small time commitment that could make a big difference for pollinators, our city, and the planet.

The post Get Your Hands Dirty For A Good Cause At Whetstone Park appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

There are stunning gardens, wetlands overflowing with wildlife, rolling pastures, and wooded paths. But the most unique of the Columbus Metro Parks isn’t in Columbus at all.

About 40 minutes from Downtown Columbus, you’ll find Clear Creek Metro Park, in Rockbridge, OH. Nestled just north of Hocking Hills State Park, and West of Wayne National Forest, Clear Creek Metro Park is the largest state nature preserve in Ohio.

The park is made up of 5,300 acres of woodland interspersed with blackhand sandstone cliffs, ravines, and creeks. It is also home to more than 2,200 species of plants and animals.

Clear Creek Metro Park is open daily, from 6:30 a.m. until 9 p.m. April 1 through September 30 and 6:30 a.m. to dark October 1 through March 31. It’s the perfect destination for a day trip full of nature and wildlife. And when they say “Clear Creek”, they mean it.

There are roughly 6 miles of easy creek access, which is super convenient if you’re in the mood to do a little fly fishing or creeking. The creek is stocked with rainbow trout every November, which generally hold over until May.

Visiting with the whole family? Make sure that you leave time to visit the Benua Loop, which is home to the park’s Storybook Trail. Kids can follow along with different stories (usually updated monthly) while they hike through the gorgeous backdrop of the park.

Clear Creek is one of those places that’s gorgeous to visit any time of the year. In the spring, the wildflowers begin blooming and the forest is full of the first signs of life. While visiting in the summer, the shade of the canopy will keep you cool as you explore the parks most beautiful trails.

Fall in Clear Creek is stunning, with the colors popping so brightly that you have to see it in person to truly understand how beautiful it is. And last, but far from least, visiting in the winter offers a unique experience, including the option to take a hike to the famous ice cave.

The Ice Cave hike is 3.5 miles long (backcountry) and the park usually organizes hikes throughout the colder months, complete with local coffee and pastries.

Of course, we can’t talk about Clear Creek Metro Park and not mention the amazing geologic feature that is Leaning Lena. Hanging over Clear Creek Road, this massive split rock goes by many names and has many legends associated with it.

Known also as Leaning Rock and Witches Rock, local legend says that witches come to the area to perform rituals. Rumor has it that if you see sticks propped up against Leaning Lena, you should be careful not to remove them, as doing so could leave you cursed!

I don’t know about the urban legend aspect of the rock, but I do know that it’s seriously massive, impressive, and one of my favorite spots in the entire park.

When you live in Downtown Columbus, it’s easy to feel disconnected from nature. The Metro Parks system offers parks that are much closer to Columbus, but they don’t all quite capture the magic of Clear Creek. It’s cinematically beautiful. Like if Westeros, Middle Earth, and Narnia all had a baby and dropped it here in southeastern Ohio.

So whether you’re looking for the perfect day trip, or just a stunning location for your fan-made Game of Thrones prequel, you need to check out Clear Creek Metro Park!

More From The Great Outdoors

• 15 Gorgeous Places To Go Camping In Ohio
• Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve Is An Amazing, Ancient Place
• The Best Cabins In Hocking Hills

The post The Most Magical Columbus Metro Park Isn’t In Columbus At All appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

Whether you’re looking for a beautiful view or some sand between your toes, sometimes there’s nothing that will do the trick quite like going to the beach.

Of course, there are plenty of water parks, lazy rivers, natural swimming holes, and swimming pools open this summer. But nothing beats a day splashing around in the lake.

So pack up the beach bags, grab the umbrella, and head to the car. A sun-soaked day awaits. Don’t forget to practice proper social distancing, wear a mask when you can’t, and wash your hands frequently.

Lake Hope State Park

Lake Hope State Park offers a 500-foot beach perfect for catching some rays. Additional activities at the park include camping, boating, hiking, and mountain biking. From the stunning Zalecki State Forest to the enchanting fields of wildflowers, this park is always worth a visit. Be sure to watch the video above before visiting the beach.

• Where: Lake Hope State Park, 27331 OH-278, McArthur, OH 45651
• Cost: Free
• Features: Camping, boating, hiking, mountain biking
• Distance From Columbus: 70 miles

Long’s Retreat

• Where: 50 Bell Hollow Rd, Latham, OH 45646
• Cost: $5 per person
• Features: Waterslides, splash pad, diving boards, and more
• Distance From Columbus: 80 miles

Baylor Beach Water Park

• Where: 8777 Manchester Ave. S.W., Navarre, Ohio 44662
• Cost: $17 a person (kids 3 and under are free)
• Features: Camping, slides, inflatables, diving boards
• Distance From Columbus: 115 miles

Nelson Ledges Quarry Park

• Where: 12001 Nelson Ledge Rd, Garrettsville, OH 44231
• Cost: $12 per person on weekends, $10 on weekdays
• Features: Scuba, fishing, camping
• Distance From Columbus: 162 miles

Maumee Bay State Park

• Where: 1400 State Park Rd, Oregon, OH 43616
• Cost: Free
• Features: Trails, fishing, boating
• Distance From Columbus: 135 miles

Kelleys Island State Park

• Where: 920 Division St, Kelleys Island, OH 43438
• Cost: Free
• Features: Trails, kayaking, fishing, boating
• Distance From Columbus: 136 miles

Nickel Plate Beach

• Where: Huron, Ohio
• Cost: Free, with a parking fee
• Features: Volleyball courts, playground, grills
• Distance From Columbus: 115 miles

Salt Fork State Park

• Where: 14755 Cadiz Rd, Lore City, OH 43755
• Cost: Free
• Features: archery, dog park, fishing, trails
• Distance From Columbus: 91 miles

Headlands Beach State Park

If you want to visit Ohio’s largest natural sand beach, Headlands Beach State Park is the place to be. This mile-long beach along Lake Erie offers soft sand, clear water, and a chance to watch the waves roll in like you’re on the coast. The adjacent nature preserve is also a gem for bird watchers and hikers.

• Where: 9601 Headlands Rd, Mentor, OH 44060
• Cost: Free
• Features: Swimming, sunbathing, nature preserve, hiking
• Distance From Columbus: 145 miles

Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach in Bay Village is one of the most scenic Lake Erie beaches and a perfect summer day trip. Nestled in the Cleveland Metroparks system, the beach features views of the downtown skyline, plenty of sand for lounging, and clean water for a refreshing dip. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months, and the nearby cliffs offer gorgeous sunset views.

• Where: 28649 Lake Rd, Bay Village, OH 44140
• Cost: Free
• Features: Lifeguards, scenic views, hiking trails, picnic areas
• Distance From Columbus: 130 miles

Have fun, stay hydrated, and don’t forget to check the water quality before heading out!

Featured image via Maumee Bay State Park Facebook.

The post No Ocean, No Problem: The Best Beaches In Ohio For A Weekend Escape appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

The Tallest Waterfall in Ohio: Big Spring Hollow Falls

Big Spring Hollow Falls, also known as Big Spring Waterfall, is the crown jewel of Hocking State Forest. Located about an hour southeast of Columbus, this majestic cascade is part of the ninety-nine acres designated for rock climbing and rappelling, managed by the Ohio Division of Forestry.

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The waterfall is a striking outcrop of the Black Hand Sandstone Member of the Cuyahoga Formation, a remnant of the Mississippian Geologic Period. This geological wonder is seasonal, flowing best after a good rain or snowmelt, making it an ever-changing spectacle worth visiting.

Rappelling Adventure

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Hocking Hills Adventure Trek offers an exhilarating waterfall rappelling trek. This isn’t your average hike; it’s a heart-pounding descent down Ohio’s largest waterfall.

Here’s what you can expect:

Other Nearby Waterfalls and Attractions

Hocking Hills isn’t just home to Big Spring Hollow Falls. The region is a treasure trove of natural wonders:

Exploring the Geology and Wildlife

Beyond the waterfalls, the Hocking Hills region is a naturalist’s paradise. The Black Hand Sandstone cliffs and formations tell the story of ancient seas and shifting landscapes. The diverse ecosystem supports a variety of wildlife, from white-tailed deer and wild turkeys to rare species of plants and birds. Whether you’re hiking, rappelling, or simply soaking in the scenery, there’s always something new to discover.

Plan Your Visit

Ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure?

The best way to reach Big Spring Hollow Falls is via the trailhead off Big Pine Road. Remember, the falls are at their most impressive after rain, so plan your visit accordingly. If you want to make it a multi-day visit, head over to the Hocking Hills State Park Lodge where you can rest and unwind after a long day of exploring.

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a curious newbie, the tallest waterfall in Ohio and the surrounding natural wonders are waiting to be explored. Happy trails!

To learn more about the rappelling experience, head over to hockinghillsadventuretrek.com.

The post The Tallest Waterfall In Ohio Is In Hocking Hills And You Can Rappel Down It appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

I know, I know, we’ve got quite a reputation for cornfields. But this state is so much more. Throughout the rolling hills and rocky canyons, there are beautiful hidden gems just waiting to be discovered by adventurers.

Dundee Falls is just one of those magical places waiting to be discovered. The fifteen-foot-high seasonal waterfall is located within the Beach City Wildlife Area. Hidden off a primitive trail, the short path passes by sandstone bluffs and hemlock trees on the way to an impressive waterfall.

Dundee Falls definitely qualifies as a hidden gem. It doesn’t get anywhere near the foot traffic of more popular hiking destinations around the state, so if a quiet walk in the woods is your cup of tea, you should make time to visit.

The trail is a total of 2 miles, there and back, and unless it’s rained recently, it’s an easy hike. There’s not much elevation gain but the path isn’t paved, so muddy boots may be a problem.

The main waterfall isn’t very far along the trail at all, so if you’ve only got time for a quick visit, you can easily check out this beauty. The trail is open year-round and the area is always beautiful, no matter when you choose to visit.

Beach City Wildlife Area is located in the heart of Ohio’s Amish Country, which is an area of the state that should certainly make your list of places to check out. Located in northeastern Ohio, the region has a variety of tourist attractions, including wineries, unique lodging, and restaurants.

You can find the trailhead for Dundee Falls at 8265-8581 Dundee Wilmot Rd NW, Dundee, OH 44624. Now get out there and start exploring, friends!

Planning a trip to the area? You’ll Never Want To Check Out Of The Dwell House Airbnb In Amish Country.

Looking for more waterfalls? Here Are 13 Waterfalls That Make The Perfect Day Trip From Columbus.

Featured image by Benjamin Lehman, Licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 4.0

The post Dundee Falls Is A Stunning, Hidden Gem Of A Waterfall In Amish Country appeared first on Columbus Navigator.