The Incredible Marshy Experience Near Cleveland Where You'll See Birds, Beavers, And Butterflies
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Nikki Rhoades
Author
Believe it or not, Northern Ohio is a coveted birdwatching site. Part of this is due to Lake Erie — migrating species often pause here to refuel before entering or just after leaving Canada. Many species trace the shoreline, and others fly down into resource-rich local parks. Today, we’re going to take a look at an incredible birdwatching park near Cleveland that you might not have even heard of. Full of beauty and natural resources, it’s no wonder so many different species call this spot home. Grab your binoculars and let’s go birding!
Tucked away off Otten Road and stretching all the way to Center Ridge Road, this park is deceptively large. It's exactly the kind of park you might expect to find in a bustling community of 35,000, but it's also a spot with more to offer than meets the eye.
Birding, also called birdwatching, is a coveted form of environmental enjoyment that allows the average citizen to become something of a scientist. In addition to observing unique behaviors, birdwatchers also learn to train their eye to spot unique and unusual species. As you trek through Sandy Ridge Reservation, you never know what will be waiting to meet your eye.
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The landscape isn't thoroughly flat, so keep that in mind before you plan your trip. There is an observation mound that's worth climbing to see the landscape, so be sure to wear sturdy boots if you're visiting during muddy or snowy seasons.
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As is true with many Ohio landscapes, this spot was originally a marsh, but farming disrupted the natural order here. As it sat vacant, Mother Nature slowly took things back over, and the park district helped her along by digging out the wetland area further. Since the park was purchased in 1990, wildlife has returned and reclaimed this pretty space.
Visitors have spotted beavers, coyotes, deer, muskrats, and other indigenous Ohio species here. This park is rich in wildlife, so don't be surprised if you spot adorable creatures during your hike. Just remember to give them some distance... this is their home, after all.
If you didn't know, the Greater Cleveland area is an incredible spot to witness the migration as monarch butterflies prepare for their annual trek back down to Mexico. This park, like many local habitats, is rich in resources they need to complete that journey.
For many years, bald eagles were on the federal endangered species list. However, conservation efforts have brought them back in great numbers, and they've even returned to Ohio in recent years. These guys particularly enjoy marshy habitats, as their diet relies heavily on fish. This park is a great place to look for them!
Dozens of birds actually stay in or come to Ohio each winter, including familiar species like cardinals, chickadees, and snowy owls. Even in the winter, this landscape is often filled with the fluttering of wings and the joyous melody of birdsong.
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A chunk of the landscape is off limits to hikers, as it's property that is still undergoing restoration. However, this crushed stone loop trail offers an incredible way to take in the more hiker-friendly corners of the park.
Don't be afraid to spend a few hours here! The landscape has so much to offer to nature lovers.
While much of the park is rather like a nature preserve, there are modern amenities here hidden in a vast landscape. Tram rides are offered here in the warmer months, and the nearby playground will keep the air filled with sounds of laughter and play. Plus, the Wetland Center meeting room is available for rent, so it's a great place to wow your family members at the next reunion.
Isn't this feathered family beautiful?! The first time I spotted a Trumpeter Swan, I didn't recognize it as such due to the brown head. Believe it or not, these swans (which are massive birds, by the way) eat by flipping upside down and rummaging around the bottom of the lake. Over time, this stains their heads. How cool is that?
This cutie is a green heron, which lives year-round in the southernmost portions of the U.S. and spends winters in Mexico. Ohio is well within its breeding range, so they often pop up in the area. Interestingly, this species is known for its use of tools... they know exactly how to bait fish to the surface to make hunting easier.
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There are plenty of benches throughout the park, so don't be afraid to budget a bit of extra time to sit and take in the park's beauty. Just look at that rainbow! It's plain to see why locals love this pretty spot.
If you visit in the colder months, be sure to bundle up. The forested landscape seems like it could break the wind, but the open walkways around the marshes tend to act a bit like wind tunnels.
Bring your camera and a lot of patience on this trip. There's so much to see!
Look for this pretty park at 6195 Otten Rd, North Ridgeville, OH, 44039.
There’s much to discover in this fabulous birdwatching park near Cleveland. With gorgeous landscapes and even more beautiful residents, nature is abundant at Sandy Ridge Reservation. Have you ever visited? We’d love to hear about your experience in the comments!
While you’re in North Ridgeville, don’t hesitate to stop at Nino’s. They’ve got some of the best Italian food in the area, and it’s an incredible place to warm up after a long hike.
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Featured Addresses
Sandy Ridge Reservation, 6195 Otten Rd, North Ridgeville, OH 44039, USA