When you think of Columbus, you probably aren’t thinking of waterfalls. However, there are waterfalls near Columbus, Ohio. In fact, there is a waterfall in Dublin, Ohio that has pretty easy access to an unexpected marvel or two. Here’s what you need to know about it and the other options in the area.
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Waterfall in Dublin, Ohio
I, too, was surprised to learn there was a waterfall in Dublin, Ohio, very close to the Columbus city limits. In fact, there are several. The easiest to find and most popular in the area is Hayden Falls Park (information below). There are a few additional options that are also worthy of exploration.
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Hayden Falls Park
Location: 4326 Hayden Run Rd, Dublin, OH 43017, United States
Hayden Falls Park is easily located off of Hayden Run Road in Dublin, just over the Scioto River from Route 33/Riverside Drive. It does have a parking lot, however, it’s on the smaller and parking may be difficult during the park’s busy times (generally midday through early evenings on good weather days).
Once parked, proceed to the stairs. It’s a long staircase, so this park isn’t wheelchair or limited mobility accessible. However, once you reach the bottom of the stairs, the boardwalk is a flat and short walk to view the waterfall. During all of my visits, the waterfall has had a heavy fall of water.
This is best known and busiest waterfall in the Dublin and Columbus areas.
Hike difficulty: Except for the long, steep staircase, it’s an easy walk.
Additional waterfalls near Columbus, Ohio
Indian Run Falls
Location: 700 Shawan Falls Dr, Dublin, OH 43017, United States
Indian Run Falls is a hidden gem tucked into downtown Dublin. Another interesting thing is that there are two small parks right next to each other. I’ve always parked near Dublin Veterans Park (near the Dublin branch of Columbus Metropolitan Library. However, Indian Run Falls does have its own parking lot, located on Shawan Falls Drive. The path is a fairly easy walk through forest land, that’s more of an overlook path.
There aren’t any obvious paths to the bottom of the falls and though it is possible to access the creek, signs indicate that it’s forbidden to get close.
Hike difficulty: It’s not difficult, though there aren’t any obvious paths to the bottom of the falls.
Wedgewood Hills Park
Location: 4623 Sandwich Ct, Dublin, OH 43016, United States
This is a little neighborhood park that has falls located within. However, these falls aren’t always running. There’s also a playground on premises. It’s another one of those city parks that’s still in the woods, giving you the idea that you are far from the hustle and bustle of city life.
This is one I haven’t been to yet, so your mileage may vary, especially as the falls may be seasonal.
Hike difficulty: Unknown
Honorable mention: Inniswood Metro Gardens
Location: 940 S Hempstead Rd, Westerville, OH 43081, United States
Inniswood Metro Gardens is an interesting park located in Westerville (a suburb of Columbus). It has a combination of manicured gardens, trails, a few small waterfalls (most are really small), and areas for kids to play (including a playground and a water feature designed for kids). It’s a great walk and the waterfalls are beautiful, though they may not be the main reason why you’d visit this awesome park.
Hike difficulty: Most of the paths around Inniswood Metro Gardens are fairly flat, though there are some steps and small hills.
Here’s some video of additional waterfalls in Ohio.
Here are some other fun things to do in Columbus, Ohio, with kids!
Conclusion
If you’re hanging out in Columbus or Dublin and want to try hiking to a waterfall, there are several options. Hayden Falls is definitely a hidden gem in Dublin, Ohio. The waterfall there is an unexpected find in the middle of the city and it’s worth the steps to see it!
What’s your favorite waterfall in Dublin, Ohio? Please leave a comment with your suggestions. Thank you!