Cedar Falls
Ohio • 50 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.9 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
100 ft
About Cedar Falls
Cedar Falls is one of the most popular and scenic waterfalls in Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio. It features a stunning cascade of water flowing over a sandstone cliff into a serene pool below. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and unique rock formations, making it a picturesque destination year-round.
The Setting
Cedar Falls sits at 840 feet within Hocking Hills State Park, fed by the Hocking River, in the foothills of Ohio. The falls drop 50 feet.
Height: 50 feet
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 0.9-mile out-and-back trail gains 100 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Cedar Falls is a short and well-maintained path that winds through a forested area with scenic views of sandstone cliffs and unique rock formations. The trail includes a series of steps and a wooden bridge, making it accessible for most visitors. The sound of the waterfall grows louder as you approach, adding to the anticipation.
What to Expect
The falls drop 50 feet. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Cedar Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Cedar Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit Cedar Falls, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest due to seasonal rainfall. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter provides a unique view of the falls with ice formations.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
The trail can be slippery, especially after rain or during winter. Stay on marked paths and avoid climbing on rocks near the waterfall. Exercise caution around the water's edge.
Current Water Conditions
241 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 94 years of record
1.32 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Cedar Falls is located within Hocking Hills State Park, approximately 8.3 miles from Rockbridge, Ohio. Visitors can use the coordinates 39.4195, -82.5235 to navigate to the parking area near the trailhead.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
A dedicated parking lot is available near the Cedar Falls trailhead. Parking is free but can fill up quickly during peak seasons.
Elevation
840 feet above sea level
Coordinates
39.419512° N, -82.523492° W
Land Management
Managed by SDNR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during weekends and peak seasons. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail can be slippery, particularly after rain. Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery, and pack water and snacks for your visit.
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For this easy 0.9 miles trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
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.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Where to Stay
Lazy Lane
Breath of Heaven Cabin- Hot Tub, Deck, Pond, PETS
Frog Hollow at Hocking Vacations
Havenridge
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
Athens Ranger District - Athens Area
19.1 miles away · 0 sites
Located 70 miles southeast of Columbus, Ohio, the Athens Unit of the Athens Ranger District is home to the Wayne National Forest Welcome Center. From here you can learn about all that the Wayne National Forest has to offer and plan your trip.
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other attractions in Hocking Hills State Park include Old Man's Cave, Ash Cave, and Rock House. The park also offers additional hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks.
Wildlife
Visitors may encounter deer, squirrels, various bird species, and other small wildlife along the trail.
Cities near Cedar Falls
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