Everyone knows TLC’s famous words of advice, “Don’t go chasing waterfalls.” But we think it’s in your best interest to do exactly the opposite.
Fall is the perfect time to do a little waterfall adventuring to cool off and unwind.
Perhaps surprising to many people even from the Dayton-area, there are actually quite a few prime waterfall spots nearby.
Here are a handful of waterfall destinations we suggest you “chase” down:
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1. LUDLOW FALLS
Location: 110 Covington Ave., Ludlow Falls
The next time a heavy rain hits, make plans to find Ludlow Falls, located under the Route 48 bridge that runs over Ludlow Creek.
When the flow of the creek is higher, the wide waterfall is quite impressive in size. An old stairway leads to a breathtaking view from below, or, walk along the edge and see the spectacle from above.
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2. CHARLESTON FALLS
Location: 2535 Ross Road, Tipp City
Arguably the most popular waterfall in the Dayton-area, this is one stop you should be sure to visit on your adventure.
A part of the 216-acre nature preserve, Charleston Falls is hidden among nearly 4 miles of hiking trails. The stunning cascade pours over a jagged drop off into a calm pool, just a few feet away from the boardwalk trail.
This waterfall is surely a nature photographer’s dream come true.
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3. CLIFTON GORGE STATE NATURE PRESERVE
Location: 2381 Ohio 343, Yellow Springs
This preserve near John Bryan State Park has two trails that travel the rim of a 40-foot deep limestone gorge that holds a portion of the Great Miami River.
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Along the gorge trails, steep, sudden drops in the stream reveal a few small waterfalls that are modest but rewarding to stumble upon.
Just east of the preserve, is the historic Clifton Mill. Although it’s man-made, the mill is home to a picturesque 20-foot waterfall that will remind you why you love the Dayton-area so dearly.
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4. WEST MILTON CASCADES
Location: 204 N. Miami St., West Milton
If you’re short on time but still need a mother-nature pick-me-up, this waterfall can be your quick-fix.
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Located in the village of West Milton, the multi-tiered fall is easy to access, with almost no hiking required. A stairway leads right up to the base where the water flows gradually from smaller and smaller cascades.
This beloved, small-town wonder is straight out of your favorite fairy tale story.
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