Photo Credits (4)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
200 ft
About Big Lyons Falls
Big Lyons Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in Mohican State Park, Ohio. It is one of two notable waterfalls in the park, the other being Little Lyons Falls. The waterfall is set in a scenic gorge and is a popular destination for hikers exploring the park's trails.
The Setting
Big Lyons Falls sits at 1,083 feet within Mohican State Park, fed by the Clear Fork Bl Pleasant Hill Dam, in the foothills of Ohio.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 200 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Big Lyons Falls is a well-maintained path that winds through a scenic forest and along a gorge. The trail features some rocky and uneven sections, as well as moderate elevation changes. Hikers will pass Little Lyons Falls before reaching Big Lyons Falls.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Big Lyons Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Big Lyons Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is typically more active due to higher water levels from rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail can be slippery, especially after rain. Exercise caution near the edge of the gorge and around the waterfall. Stay on marked trails to avoid accidents.
Current Water Conditions
1.01 ft
Water depth at gauge
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Clear Fork bl Pleasant Hill Dam nr Perrysville OH (1 km away).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to late April, peaking in April.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Perrysville hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
1-meter lidar measures about 154 feet of descent through Big Lyons Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 1,074 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 138 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 85 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing northeast, the falls stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,074 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 154 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Big Lyons Falls is located within Mohican State Park, near Loudonville, Ohio. Visitors can access the falls via the Lyons Falls Trail, which begins near the Covered Bridge in the park.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the Covered Bridge in Mohican State Park. This is the starting point for the trail leading to Big Lyons Falls.
Elevation
1,083 feet above sea level
Coordinates
40.616111° N, -82.327778° W
Land Management
Managed by SDNR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good traction, as the trail can be rocky and slippery. Visit after a period of rain for the best water flow at the falls. Arrive early during peak seasons to secure parking and avoid crowds.
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With 2.0 miles and 200 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
The Hemlock Inn
La Quinta by Wyndham Mansfield OH
Spruce Hill Inn & Cottages
Landoll's Mohican Castle
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
North Branch Kokosing River Lake - Campground
15.3 miles away · 0 sites
This recreation area is part of North Branch Kokosing River Lake
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Little Lyons Falls, the Covered Bridge, and the Clear Fork Gorge Overlook. Mohican State Park also offers camping, canoeing, and other outdoor activities.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Keep an eye out for birds of prey and other native species.
Cities near Big Lyons Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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