This One Little Town Near Cleveland Is A Nature Lover’s Dream
By Nikki Rhoades|Published June 22, 2022
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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.
Cuyahoga County is home to the Cleveland Metroparks, but there’s beauty beyond the county limits that is worth exploring. In fact, there’s one community, in particular, that is overflowing with natural splendor … and it’s a place where many Cleveland Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts have spent many unforgettable nights. That’s right … we’re talking about Peninsula, Ohio! This nature-filled small town near Cleveland is full of hiking and biking opportunities and its location in the Cuyahoga River Valley makes it a foggy, otherworldly place to catch the sunrise. Take a look:
When it comes to nature, no time offers as much beauty and charm as Peninsula, Ohio.
This tiny village is big in personality, but it has a small population. Circa 570 people call it home, but thousands of local animals thrive in its wooded landscape.
This slice of paradise in Summit County is surrounded by the woods of Cuyahoga Valley National Park, the only park of its kind in the Buckeye State.
Circa two dozen sites in town are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. There's much to see here and life moves at a slower pace in this sleepy village than it does up in Cleveland.
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The community is full of history, which is evident throughout many of its trails.
Peninsula was first settled in 1818, and evidence of human activity litters the landscape. From historic trails to evidence of old construction, you'll stumble upon forgotten stories of yesteryear everywhere you turn.
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In fact, the Towpath Trail stretches through the community and it's arguably the best historic hike in the whole state.
The Towpath trails the length of the old Ohio & Erie Canal, though much of the old waterway is long gone. More than 100 miles of canal-adjacent trail are now open to the public and some of the trail is hiding as far north as Cleveland.
And while covered bridges are a rarity in the area, Peninsula has one of the prettiest near Cleveland.
This covered bridge on Everett Road is a fan-favorite destination, especially in the fall. It stretches across Furnace Run, and nowadays, it's the only remaining covered bridge in Summit County. It was built in the 1800s, perhaps in the 1860s, and has been lovingly maintained as time has marched on.
Like much of the area, Kendall Ledges has a history that's as remarkable as its natural beauty is stunning. This pretty piece of property was purchased by Hayward Kendall, a wealthy industrialist whose obituary was published in the New York Times in 1928. Hayward Kendall's intention was for the property to become a park and, over a century later, his wish is still a reality.
CVSR offers a wide variety of excursions, from dinner trains to themed outings. Their Fall Flyer outing is arguably the best way to view fall foliage in the entire area and their Christmastime excursions are a cherished tradition for many locals.
... and you might even spot the train in the center of town on State Route 303.
For nature lovers, the Peninsula Quarry offers an escape like no other. Its waters are fed by an underground spring, and it has been a favored summertime destination for approximately seven decades. Swim passes are surprisingly affordable, and the landscape offers an unrivaled glimpse into local history.
And when the weather cools down, the fun doesn't chill out.
Szalay's is one of the best places for sweet corn near Cleveland and it's also an autumnal paradise. It's an awesome place to explore an old-fashioned corn maze and pick up a pumpkin for carving.
Nature and beauty are the name of the game in Peninsula, Ohio.
This is one community that's worth visiting time and time again.
This charming, nature-filled small town near Cleveland is truly a gem. Whether you’re hiking or biking through the surrounding forest, you’ll surely fall in love.
Looking for other small towns where you can park, rent a bike, and get lost in nature? Check out our list of bike shops with rental options to get started on your next adventure!
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