The best waterfall hikes and walks around Columbus

Our guide features three dedicated waterfall hiking trails around Columbus, all of which are rated as easy. These routes focus on areas like Quarry Trails Metro Park, offering accessible ways to experience the region's cascades.

The primary waterfall featured in our routes is Millikin Falls, located within Quarry Trails Metro Park. This impressive 25-foot waterfall is a highlight of trails like the Milliken Falls via Tall Wall, Connector, and Milliken Falls Trail, offering a rugged hiking experience through a transformed quarry landscape. Hayden Run Falls is another notable waterfall in Columbus, accessible via a boardwalk.

Yes, all the waterfall hikes listed in this guide are rated as easy, making them suitable for families. For instance, the Millikin Falls Loop is a relatively short and accessible trail within Quarry Trails Metro Park, perfect for a family outing to see the waterfall.

Many metro parks in Columbus, including Quarry Trails Metro Park where Millikin Falls is located, are dog-friendly. However, it's always best to check the specific park regulations before your visit, as leash rules and restricted areas may apply. Generally, dogs are welcome on trails as long as they are on a leash.

The waterfalls around Columbus, like Millikin Falls and Hayden Run Falls, tend to be most impressive during the spring thaw or after significant rainfall. Late winter and early spring often provide the most dramatic views as snowmelt contributes to higher water levels. Autumn also offers beautiful scenery with fall foliage.

Yes, several routes offer a circular experience. For example, the Millikin Falls – Roberts Millikin Ditch loop from Milliken Falls provides a pleasant loop trail, allowing you to return to your starting point after enjoying the waterfall.

The terrain around waterfalls in Columbus varies. At Quarry Trails Metro Park, you'll find a unique landscape transformed from an old quarry, featuring rugged paths, boardwalks, and views of small lakes. Trails like those leading to Millikin Falls may involve some uneven surfaces and slight elevation changes, but are generally considered easy. Hayden Run Falls is accessible via a boardwalk.

While exploring the waterfall trails, you're often close to other natural attractions. Quarry Trails Metro Park itself offers unique geological features from its quarry past. Beyond the immediate trails, the Columbus area is rich with river systems like the Olentangy River and Alum Creek, and various metro parks with diverse landscapes. You might also find viewpoints such as the Antrim Lake Deck nearby.

The komoot community rates the waterfall trails around Columbus highly, with an average score of 4.67 stars. Hikers often praise the unique transformation of the quarry landscape into a recreational area, the accessibility of the waterfalls, and the opportunity to experience natural beauty close to the city.

Generally, swimming or wading directly in or near the waterfalls in Columbus's metro parks is not permitted due to safety concerns and to protect the natural environment. It's always best to observe from designated viewing areas and respect park regulations.

While specific routes in this guide might not be fully wheelchair accessible, Hayden Run Falls in Columbus is known for having a boardwalk trail that provides accessible viewing of the waterfall. For other locations, it's advisable to check the specific park's accessibility information before visiting.