Northeast Ohio charms locals with a stunning landscape. Though it may seem urbanized and unremarkable, there is endless beauty is hidden under the surface. You may be surprised to learn that Greater Cleveland is overflowing with hidden waterfalls and other gorgeous natural features. Looking for a way to get outdoors with the kids? One waterfall is super accessible, and you’ll love the short and sweet journey it offers.
Olmsted Falls is a southwestern suburb in Cuyahoga County with a rich landscape that enchants its 10,000 residents.
© Gabe Leidy Photography Though small in comparison to other suburbs, this charming little community has more than enough natural beauty to go around.
The city is built on a mere 4.12 square miles, carved and shaped by waterways like the Rocky River and Plum Creek.
k_e_lewis/Flickr
Plum Creek actually empties into the Rocky River in a park in Olmsted Falls that covers approximately five acres.
Jen Goellnitz/Flickr Located on the appropriately-named Water St., David Fortier River Park is coveted by locals and out-of-towners alike.
David Fortier River Park is dwarfed by the nearby Cleveland Metroparks, but its beauty could truly rival any of the larger parks in the county.
Jen Goellnitz/Flickr
Located along the course of the West Branch of the Rocky River, this lovely landscape features walking trails that are short, sweet, and kid-friendly.
Jen Goellnitz/Flickr While the staircase pictured here may not be stroller-friendly, much of the surrounding landscape is. Be sure to pack a picnic to enjoy in the stone covered pavilion after your hike.
Fisherman particularly enjoy the falls in the park, especially in mid-April.
Jen Goellnitz/Flickr As steelhead trout set out to spawn, they are such a plentiful species that visitors can spot them jumping over the falls. Kids will delight in seeing this splendid natural phenomenon, and traces of other animals are evident in the park year-round.
This park is also a popular spot for engagement shoots and senior photos, and it’s also downright romantic.
Jen Goellnitz/Flickr It could also double as an easy date destination. Bring a picnic lunch and a blanket and plan to meander around this lovely little park for a bit.
With waterfalls, old-world stone structures, walking trails, picnic areas, and fishing spots, this secret park is truly a hidden gem.
k_e_lewis/Flickr
Hidden alcoves and surprising natural features are scattered across this pretty park, making it an adventure waiting to happen.
Jen Goellnitz/Flickr
David Fortier River Park is too close to home not to visit!
Jen Goellnitz/Flickr
When you’re a parent or grandparent, nothing is as relieving as a short, sweet, and free adventure with the kids. Nature inspires throughout every generation, it seems, and this pretty park in Olmsted Falls will leave you entranced.
© Gabe Leidy Photography
Though small in comparison to other suburbs, this charming little community has more than enough natural beauty to go around.
k_e_lewis/Flickr
Jen Goellnitz/Flickr
Located on the appropriately-named Water St., David Fortier River Park is coveted by locals and out-of-towners alike.
While the staircase pictured here may not be stroller-friendly, much of the surrounding landscape is. Be sure to pack a picnic to enjoy in the stone covered pavilion after your hike.
As steelhead trout set out to spawn, they are such a plentiful species that visitors can spot them jumping over the falls. Kids will delight in seeing this splendid natural phenomenon, and traces of other animals are evident in the park year-round.
It could also double as an easy date destination. Bring a picnic lunch and a blanket and plan to meander around this lovely little park for a bit.
Love waterfalls? You’ll love these waterfall ice sculptures that form in Cleveland each winter.
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