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Blue Hen Falls

An easy, family-friendly hike and a "favorite of visitors who wish to visit one of the prettiest waterfalls" within the park.

Hiking Easy

Distance
4.6 km
Ascent
163 m
Descent
163 m
Duration
1-2 hrs
Low Point
199 m
High Point
278 m
Gradient
Blue Hen Falls Map

Second to Brandywine Falls, Blue Hen Falls is the other must-visit waterfall hike in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. The NPS even describes it as a "favorite of visitors who wish to visit one of the prettiest waterfalls" within the park.

Description

Tucked in a cove, this 15-foot waterfall is accessible year-round and forms a perfect hike for the entire family, including the dog! The hike is easy by most standards, but it could be considered steep at times. Afterward, consider visiting either of the Trail Mix locations for a snack or to pick up some souvenirs if you're visiting from out of town.

As mapped, this version of the hike begins at the popular Boston Mills Trailhead. The parking lot is large, paved, and both drinking water and restrooms are available nearby. If you're driving a larger vehicle or towing a trailer, a large unpaved parking lot is available at the ski area across the river.

If you get an early enough start to your day, you may find parking at a small trailhead on Boston Mills Road, but the NPS states that it is typically full by 10 a.m. on most days. "Parking is also prohibited along the road, and cars will be ticketed and towed" if they don't adhere to the signage.

If you're looking for an additional challenge, Buttermilk Falls is located beyond Blue Hen Falls on a lesser-known, unblazed trail. This source describes Buttermilk as "much more scenic than Blue Hen," though please note that the trail is not officially recognized or maintained by the NPS. That said, this stunning 20-foot waterfall is listed on countless websites as a must-visit spot within CVNP.

Source: https://www.nps.gov/cuva/learn/photosmultimedia/blue-hen-falls-gallery.htm

Difficulty

Easy

Walking along a well-kept trail that’s mostly flat. No obstacles are present.

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

all year round

Features

  • Wildlife
  • Picturesque
  • Dog friendly
  • Wild flowers
  • Water features
  • Family friendly
  • Forestry or heavy vegetation

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area