Visiting The Mountain Lakes Of Chapin Forest Reservation Near Cleveland Is A Treat
By Nikki Rhoades|Published September 14, 2019
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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.
Northeast Ohio is overflowing with absolute splendor. Our natural landscape has dunes, bluffs, valleys, and other surprises that delight nature lovers. There’s much to discover here, and even longtime residents occasionally stumble upon an unexpected oasis. If you’re craving a hike that is overflowing with surprises, you don’t have to travel far – less than 20 miles from home is an incredible summit hike and the very best mountain lake near Cleveland.
In a place like Cleveland where the land is so flat, the thought of a local mountain seems silly… but there’s one hiding in plain sight.
If you’ve ever looked at the horizon and spotted a plateau-like shape in the distance, you are actually seeing the silhouette of our very own (yet very petite) mountain.
Gildersleeve Mountain is located in Kirtland, and its peak sits at 1,163 feet above sea level.
At just 18 miles away from Cleveland, this stunning mountain can often be seen on fair days. Cleveland’s skyline can also be spotted from its summit, which you can actually hike if you’ve ever wanted to conquer a mountain.
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The majority of this mountain is covered by Chapin Forest Reservation, which offers the public a unique opportunity to explore a fairly untouched mountain landscape.
Unfortunately, this hike is a bit on the difficult side and is not for everyone. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, it’s not too long and is an incredibly beautiful opportunity to put your skills to the test.
You know those gorgeous, unbelievable places you spot as you’re flipping through the television channels? The beauty of this enchanting former quarry is comparable to such places and the hike to get there is downright enchanting.
You can also swing by the Twin Ponds Loop Trail for comparable beauty that’s on easier terrain.
This hike is just slightly shorter than the one on Lucky Loop, but it’s arguably just as lovely. The trail is still moderately challenging, but it offers a much easier hike that the average nature lover can appreciate.
No matter where you go in this enchanting reservation, you will find natural beauty that's stunning in every season.
