Cedar Falls

Cedar Falls - Hocking Hills State Park

Known for its beautiful waterfall and surrounding natural scenery, it draws visitors from all over the country to experience its beauty and outdoor activities.

Location of Cedar Falls:

Address:
Cedar Falls
Hocking Hills State Park
21150 St. Rt. 664 S.
Logan, OH 43138

Cedar Falls is located in the heart of Hocking Hills State Park, which is situated in Hocking County, approximately 50 miles southeast of Columbus, Ohio. The area is easily accessible via State Route 664.

History of Cedar Falls and the Area:

Cedar Falls itself has a long natural history and is part of the broader Hocking Hills region, which is known for its geological features, including sandstone cliffs, caves, gorges, and waterfalls.

The Cedar Falls waterfall is located on the Cedar Creek, which flows over a section of sandstone rock. The falls were formed through natural erosion over thousands of years as water from Cedar Creek carved into the soft sandstone. The Cedar Falls drop is about 50 feet, making it one of the most striking features in the park.

Before European settlers arrived, the Hocking Hills region was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Shawnee. The area’s natural features, including the waterfalls and deep gorges, were considered sacred by these indigenous groups. The region provided abundant resources for hunting, fishing, and gathering.

European settlers arrived in the early 19th century. The dense forests of oak, hickory, and pine were valuable timber resources, and the region was heavily logged. However, by the late 1800s, the demand for timber had caused significant environmental degradation in the area, including loss of biodiversity and soil erosion.

Cedar Falls got its name because of the abundant Eastern Red Cedar trees in the area, although they were later cleared during the timber industry boom. The falls itself is one of the park’s major attractions, and its name reflects both its natural beauty and the species that once dominated the area.

Creation of Hocking Hills State Park:

Hocking Hills State Park spans over 2,300 acres of protected land. This includes Cedar Falls, Old Man's Cave, Ash Cave, Rock House, and other popular natural features.

Cedar Falls itself is a smaller section within Hocking Hills State Park, but it draws a significant portion of the park's visitors. It is part of the Cedar Creek Gorge, which is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.

In the 1920s, a group of local conservationists began advocating for the protection of the Hocking Hills’ natural beauty. In 1924, the state of Ohio officially established Hocking Hills State Park, and by the 1930s, Cedar Falls and other natural features in the area were preserved as part of the park.

The establishment of Hocking Hills State Park in the 1930s played a crucial role in preserving the area. During the Great Depression, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) built many of the trails, bridges, and park infrastructure that still exist today, including the trail to Cedar Falls.

The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) was a public work relief program in the United States during the Great Depression, active from 1933 to 1942. Its primary aim was to provide jobs for young, unemployed men while also contributing to the conservation and development of the nation's natural resources. The CCC was a major part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal initiative, designed to combat unemployment and help revitalize the economy during the Depression.

The CCC worked extensively on building hiking trails, many of which are still in use today. They improved access to the area's natural wonders, making it easier for the public to explore and enjoy the scenic beauty of the region. The trails also facilitated easier access for visitors to experience the deep gorges, waterfalls, and rock formations that characterize the Hocking Hills.

The CCC also worked on reforesting land in the Hocking Hills region. Ohio, like much of the country, had suffered from deforestation in the years prior, and the CCC's tree planting efforts were part of a broader effort to stabilize the soil and prevent erosion.

The CCC was known for its use of rustic stonework in building park structures. In Hocking Hills, this included the construction of cabins, shelters, and stone walls that blended with the natural environment.

The CCC also developed campgrounds and picnic areas in the park to encourage public recreation. The CCC's work in Hocking Hills also extended to the creation of educational programs and interpretive signage.

Below is the most recent visit on January 11, 2025. Enjoy:

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January 11, 2025

Cedar Falls Trail: Length and Difficulty:

Cedar Falls is accessible by a relatively short and easy hiking trail. Here are the details:

Cedar Falls Trail:
Extended Trails (for more challenging hikes):
- Hocking Hills State Park offers several additional hiking trails that connect to the Cedar Falls Trail and provide more challenging options for hikers. For example:
  - The Grandma Gatewood Trail and The Ash Cave Trail offer longer, more strenuous hikes with opportunities for exploration beyond Cedar Falls.
  - Difficulty: Ranges from moderate to difficult, with varying elevations, uneven terrain, and longer distances.

Length: 0.1 miles (round-trip)
Difficulty: Easy
Description: This is a short, paved trail that leads directly to Cedar Falls, making it easily accessible to visitors of all ages and fitness levels. The trail offers scenic views of the falls and surrounding lush vegetation. It’s a perfect option for those who want to experience the beauty of Cedar Falls without a strenuous hike.
Yes, the Cedar Falls Trail has a section with steps, although the trail itself to the base of the waterfall is relatively short and easy. Here's a more detailed description of the trail:

Cedar Falls Trail with Steps:

Length: 0.1 miles (one-way)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (with steps)

The main portion of the Cedar Falls Trail is paved and relatively flat, leading visitors directly to the base of Cedar Falls. However, if you wish to take a different route to explore more of the area or enjoy different views of the falls, there are steps involved. These steps lead up and down near the waterfall’s viewing areas.

The steps are generally manageable for most people but do require a bit of effort, particularly if you are hiking up after visiting the falls. This section can be more challenging for individuals with mobility issues, but the main paved trail to the falls is easily accessible.

If you're just visiting to see the waterfall, the paved path without the steps will take you directly to a fantastic viewpoint. However, for those who want to explore the surroundings further, the steps offer an opportunity to get a better vantage point and explore the gorge area above the falls.

Historical Information and Significance:

Cedar Falls is often considered the most picturesque waterfall in Hocking Hills State Park due to its large drop and surrounding natural features. It’s a key destination for visitors who want to experience the region's unique geology and natural beauty.

The park is an important ecological preserve, with diverse plant and animal species. The Cedar Creek Gorge, where Cedar Falls is located, is home to moist woodlands and a variety of rare species of flora and fauna.

Due to its natural beauty, Cedar Falls is a favorite location for photographers, particularly during the fall when the area’s foliage is at its peak. Visitors often come to observe wildlife and enjoy the peaceful, serene surroundings.

Conclusion:

Cedar Falls is one of the most famous natural features in Hocking Hills State Park. We love to come to Cedar Falls in the different seasons. It never disappoints. Enjoy the longer hikes too. We will be doing blogs on the other parks in Hocking Hills State Park soon! Happy hiking!