Cascade Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (3)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
200 ft
About Cascade Falls
Cascade Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the Indian Point Park area of the Lake Metroparks system in Ohio. It is surrounded by lush forest and is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The waterfall is part of the Paine Creek and features a serene setting with cascading water over rocky terrain.
The Setting
Cascade Falls sits at 771 feet along the Grand River, in the foothills of Ohio.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 1.5-mile out-and-back trail gains 200 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Cascade Falls is a moderately challenging out-and-back hike that winds through a forested area with some elevation changes. The path is well-maintained but may have muddy or slippery sections, especially after rain. Hikers will encounter scenic views of Paine Creek and the surrounding woodland before reaching the waterfall.
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 Cascade Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Cascade Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit Cascade Falls, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons. Fall is also a great time to visit for the colorful foliage.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail can be slippery after rain, and the area around the falls is rocky. Exercise caution and stay on marked trails. Avoid climbing on rocks near the waterfall to prevent accidents.
Current Water Conditions
22 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 52 years of record
1.55 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Grand River near Painesville OH (6 km away).
Today
Moderate
22 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Moderate
23 cfs
5/10Mon
Moderate
23 cfs
8/10Tue
Moderate
31 cfs
4/10Wed
Moderate
28 cfs
8/10Thu
Moderate
33 cfs
5/10Fri
Moderate
43 cfs
4/10Best window: Mon — moderate flow, partly sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid February to mid April, peaking in February.
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 Painesville 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 146 feet of descent through Cascade Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 771 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 181 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 36 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southwest and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 771 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 146 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Cascade Falls is located near Painesville, Ohio, within Indian Point Park. The coordinates for the falls are 41.6739, -81.1843. Visitors can access the park via Indian Point Road, with clear signage leading to the trailhead.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Indian Point Park parking lot. The lot is free to use and provides access to the trail leading to Cascade Falls.
Elevation
771 feet above sea level
Coordinates
41.673937° N, -81.184267° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially on weekends. Bring water and wear sturdy shoes, as the trail can be uneven in places. Check the weather before your visit, as the trail may become slippery after rain.
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With 1.5 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
Holiday Inn Express & Suites - Painesville - Concord by IHG
Comfort Inn Painesville - Concord
Hampton Inn & Suites Cleveland-Mentor
5 Bedroom Lakeside Home Sleeps 12 - Shared Lake Access, Large Yard, Central Air, Fire Pit, Horseshoes & More!
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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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the Holden Arboretum, Lake Erie beaches, and the charming towns of Painesville and Chardon.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors may also spot wildflowers and native plants along the trail.
Cities near Cascade Falls
Other waterfalls named Cascade Falls
24 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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