Columbia Park In Greater Cleveland Will Lead You Straight To A Lake Erie Waterfall
By Nikki Rhoades|Published July 12, 2023
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Nikki Rhoades
Author
Nikki is a lifelong Ohioan with a love for literature. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Akron and has enjoyed publishing her written work since 2007. She has a love of travel and does so frequently, though she believes that home is where the heart is — she continues to work in and around Cleveland as a digital content specialist to this day, working on everything from commercial scripts and social media posts to grassroots marketing initiatives.
Once upon a time, Ohio was covered by an ancient ocean. The landscape has changed dramatically since then, but this area is unusually famous for its ancient fossilized sharks and fishes. In more modern history, the landscape around Lake Erie was once glaciated, meaning massive chunks of moving ice crushed and shaped the landscape and left evidence of glacial grooves. While non-Ohioans will scoff at the state and say it’s all corn and soybeans, our topography is actually rather significant in the scientific community. There are secret features here that exist nowhere else on earth, and some that exist only under exceedingly rare circumstances. One of the more unusual natural features here is a beach waterfall near Cleveland that flows directly into Lake Erie. There aren’t too many comparable beachfront waterfalls out there, but this spot is enchanting and well worth a visit.
You've just stumbled upon Columbia Beach Falls, one of the best-kept secrets in Northern Ohio.
At circa 20 feet or so high, this waterfall isn't a tiny trickle. In fact, its waters are fueled by a tiny waterfall just barely upstream. On days following decent rainfall, this hidden waterfall can become rather mighty.
But what makes this waterfall so unique is that it flows directly into Lake Erie.
A lakefront waterfall may sound like something in a romance novel or a movie, but this spot is oh so real. It's over in Bay Village, and it is arguably one of the most unique natural landmarks near Cleveland.
This tiny park is part of the Lake Erie Water Trail, but it looks like any other municipal park at first glance. You'll see trails, overlooks of Lake Erie, and coastal wildlife. While you're taking in the views, the song of a nearby stream just might taunt you.
In addition to a paved trail, the park also boasts an overlook that lets you peek down at the waterfall and a staircase to take you down to the beach.
While this photo was taken from the base of the falls, it's easy to see the viewing platform in the upper left corner. This gives you a bird's eye view of the falls and of Lake Erie just beyond.
It's almost funny... from above, the waterfall doesn't look remarkably large.
Similar to Bridal Veil Falls in the Cleveland Metroparks, this beautiful cascade is long and skinny, moving in a flow that's more like chiffon than a mighty crest. Nonetheless, its beauty is striking, and photographers love capturing its movement.
Once you get to the base, however, you'll see just how grand this natural landmark is.
While the waterfall does end at a natural beach, this isn't a spot you'll want to go swimming. There's no lifeguard on duty, and the shoreline is rather rocky. Use caution when heading down near the lake, as the shore (and staircase to get there) can get pretty wet when there's a decent number of waves.
To get to the waterfall, you'll start at a parking lot across the street from Columbia Park.
The crosswalk to the park is easy to spot, and it takes you to a paved path that'll lead you right to the waterfall. The whole hike takes a mere few minutes before you reach the platform overlook.
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If you visit on a pleasant day, absolutely budget time to walk down to the beach.
There's something otherworldly about this spot, and it's incredibly peaceful. Having Lake Erie in front of you and a waterfall right next to you is an indulgent experience, immersing your senses in the natural songs of moving water.
You'll find yourself amazed at how effectively the flowing water has carved away at the stone.
Surrounded by bluffs on either side, it's easy to see how this stream has been slowly shaping the landscape for generations. The chunked elevation of this rocky route allows the water to take different courses depending on changes in recent rainfall, so the cascade may look different if you visit it at different times of year.
This hidden beach waterfall near Cleveland is one of the most incredible features hiding in Ohio.
Look for this waterfall in Columbia Park! Set your GPS to navigate to 25436 Lake Rd, Bay Village, OH 44140 and head out for an adventure.
This hidden beach waterfall near Cleveland is a real treat for the senses, immersing you in the sounds of crashing waves and cascading waters alike. Have you ever visited this Bay Village waterfall? Tell us about your experience in the comments!
While you’re in Bay Village, make sure you budget time to visit Chatty’s, its newest pizza shop. It’s right near Huntington Beach, so if this waterfall trip has you itchin’ for a swim, these destinations can round out your road trip.
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