Cascade Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Cascade Falls
Cascade Falls, located in Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park in Ohio, is a picturesque waterfall surrounded by unique rock formations and lush forest. It is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
The Setting
Cascade Falls sits at 974 feet within Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park, fed by the Eagle Creek, in the foothills of Ohio.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Cascade Falls is short and relatively flat, making it accessible for most visitors. It winds through a forested area with unique rock formations and leads to the waterfall. The trail may have some uneven terrain and roots, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
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, as the waterfall flow is typically stronger due to seasonal rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution on the trail, as roots and rocks may create tripping hazards. Avoid visiting during heavy rain or icy conditions, as the trail can become slippery.
Current Water Conditions
31 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 97 years of record
4.11 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Eagle Creek at Phalanx Station OH (11 km away).
Today
Moderate
31 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Moderate
33 cfs
8/10Sun
Moderate
35 cfs
8/10Mon
Moderate
35 cfs
8/10Tue
Moderate
39 cfs
8/10Wed
Moderate
40 cfs
6/10Thu
Moderate
41 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, mostly sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid February to late April, peaking in March.
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 Parkman 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 80 feet of descent through Cascade Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 970 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 23 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 31 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face east and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 970 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 80 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- East
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading east).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Cascade Falls is located within Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park in Garrettsville, Ohio. The park is accessible via State Route 282, and signs within the park guide visitors to the trailheads.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the main parking lot of Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park, which provides access to the trails leading to Cascade Falls.
Elevation
974 feet above sea level
Coordinates
41.329778° N, -81.040928° W
Land Management
Managed by SDNR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit after a period of rain for the best waterfall flow. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be uneven in places. Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends.
Where to Stay
Holiday Inn Express Lordstown-Newton Falls/Warren by IHG
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Youngstown North-Warren/Niles by IHG
Fairfield Inn by Marriott Warren Niles
Fairfield by Marriott Youngstown/Austintown
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
West Branch State Park
13.8 miles away · 0 sites
This recreation area is part of Michael J Kirwan Lake
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other attractions in Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park include unique rock formations and additional hiking trails. The nearby town of Garrettsville offers dining and shopping options.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, squirrels, and other small woodland animals. Visitors may also see wildflowers and native plants.
Cities near Cascade Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Cascade Falls
24 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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