Sometimes, you just need to get outside, soak up some sunshine and bask in the fresh air. Fortunately, the Buckeye State is home to several state parks, nature perseveres and even metro parks that are perfect for just that. Charleston Falls Preserve in Tipp City features a scenic 1.8-mile loop trail that’s a fairly easy trek to make. It leads to a beautiful waterfall that’s a best kept secret for locals and a hidden gem for those who aren’t from the area.
With more than 216 acres of prairie, ponds and forests, this popular park is an ideal place to hike and see wildlife.
Emily Gudaitis/AllTrails The preserve is home to more than 3 miles of trails, and the 1.8-mile loop to the falls is a fairly easy hike.
There’s also a small cave that’s fun to find, which only adds to the sense of adventure that builds.
Amber Schaeffer/AllTrails Please note: Exploring inside the cave is prohibited. Observe from the outside only.
Most portions of the trail feature boardwalks or gravel terrain, making it a fairly easy trek to make even with children.
Amber Schaeffer/AllTrails To see a map of the different trails at the preserve, click here.
The closer you get to the falls, you’ll see boardwalks guiding the way—and depending on how strong the flow of Charleston Falls is that day, you can usually hear them before you see them.
Lyndsay Coleman/AllTrails The stream plummets 37 feet before journeying back to the Great Miami River. It’s a beautiful sight to behold.
Like any waterfall, Charleston Falls is best viewed after heavy rainfall. Plan your visit accordingly and don’t forget your camera.
Lyndsay Coleman/AllTrails Fun fact: Because Charleston Falls’ rock strata is the same as Niagara Falls, it’s often called a “Miniature Niagara.”
In the colder months, the frozen falls look downright otherworldly. It’s worth coming back to see the falls at different times of the year.
Amy Colvin/AllTrails
Have you ever explored Charleston Falls Preserve before? If so, what was your experience like? Share your thoughts and photos with us!
Emily Gudaitis/AllTrails
The preserve is home to more than 3 miles of trails, and the 1.8-mile loop to the falls is a fairly easy hike.
Amber Schaeffer/AllTrails
Please note: Exploring inside the cave is prohibited. Observe from the outside only.
To see a map of the different trails at the preserve, click here.
Lyndsay Coleman/AllTrails
The stream plummets 37 feet before journeying back to the Great Miami River. It’s a beautiful sight to behold.
Fun fact: Because Charleston Falls’ rock strata is the same as Niagara Falls, it’s often called a “Miniature Niagara.”
Amy Colvin/AllTrails
For more kid-friendly hiking adventures in Ohio, check out our previous article: 9 Totally Kid-Friendly Hikes In Ohio That Are 1 Mile And Under.
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Address: Charleston Falls Preserve, 2535 Ross Rd, Tipp City, OH 45371, USA
