Cleveland has its own magnificent landscape, but wonders also lie outside of our realm of familiarity. As we head south, down toward Ohio's Amish Country, our busy city streets fade into a sprawling rural landscape that's breathtaking all year round. This is also where you'll find one magnificent Northeast Ohio waterfall, and it's one that is quite different in appearance than any close to home. Lace up your hiking boots and prepare for adventure, because you are sure to fall in love with this pretty landscape.
Road tripping down to Beach City Wildlife Area takes between an hour and an hour and a half, so make sure you choose a fun group for this journey.
You'll definitely want to play games and sing songs to pass time on this drive. You'll also be treated to breathtaking windshield views, as the land gradually grows more rolling as we travel south from Cleveland.
If you've never been, Beach City Wildlife Area is a 1,912-acre wildlife area in Tuscarawas County off of State Route 93.
This area, believe it or not, was originally designated to assist with flood control.
Many appreciate this area for its fishing and trapping opportunities, but others see a different sort of charm in the landscape.
Here, a diverse landscape including a lake, a stream valley, a meadow, and a sprawling forest provides solace to all sorts of native species. Waterfowl abound at the lake, and below them swims saugeye, blue gill, and largemouth bass.
Others come to this pretty park to experience Dundee Falls in person.
Park off of Dundee Wilmot Road NW and you'll find a modest, well-trafficked path into the forest. As you follow it, you'll start to hear the sound of falling water.
The waterfall varies in size, but it's almost always flowing.
Unlike many Ohio waterfalls that freeze in the winter or dry up in the summer, this one is fairly consistent in terms of its trickle. It is most magnificent after a spring rain, but it's awe-invoking all year round.
All throughout the area, you'll spot magnificent sandstone structures reaching toward the sky.
These incredible sedimentary stone walls hearken back to Ohio's days as an ancient ocean. Today, they're used by some for rock climbing, and to others they're merely a magnificent backdrop to a hike.
As this pretty place is a bit of a drive, you may opt to stay overnight - and there's one modest hotel just around the corner.
The Inn At Amish Door is a cozy hotel tucked away in the rolling hills of Amish Country. Here, hospitality is the focus, and family and couples packages ensure you get the best deal possible. The best part? It's just a short drive away from Beach City Wildlife Area!
Whatever you plan to do, just be sure to stay out of the area once darkness falls.
As hunters often frequent this area at night, it's a wise idea to visit early in the day and to wear bright colors. For more information, check with the local Division of Wildlife.
You'll find endless majesty at this pretty spot.
There's much to do in the area, as well! There are antique stores, a few places to dine, and even a meadery. Plan accordingly, because you'll want to add this day trip to your Northeast Ohio bucket list.
The Cleveland Metroparks are a gem, but heading out into the greater Northeast Ohio landscape is endlessly rewarding. Have you ever visited this Northeast Ohio waterfall? Tell us about your experience!
Not looking to travel far? Take a local waterfall road trip through the area!
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