Fort Loop Trail Near Cleveland Leads To Ancient Ruins

While the history of Cleveland may feel long-reaching, the history of human activity in the region stretches back centuries. Thousands of years ago, sites that are well-traveled today were visited just as often by indigenous people. In fact, human artifacts have been found alongside fossils of Pleistocene megafauna (giant mammals that roamed the earth during the last ice age), which demonstrates that humans have been active in the region for thousands of years. You don’t even need to visit a local museum to see the influence of the people that once called this region home. In fact, you can visit one spectacular structure in one of the Cleveland Metroparks’ loveliest reservations. Plan your trip using this interactive map.

This splendid landscape made history as the first parcel purchased by the Cleveland Metroparks.

Today, this massive park cuts through parts of Berea, Brook Park, Cleveland, Fairview Park, Lakewood, North Olmsted, Olmsted Township, and Rocky River.

And its impressive landscape hides an ancient secret.

If you look closely, you can see authentic earthworks in the forms of walls and ditches hidden amongst the landscape.

These incredible 2,000-year-old structures are located on a shale cliff that stands 90 feet above the river.

To reach the site, you'll traverse Fort Hill Loop Trail and its impressive staircase.

With 155 steps to reach the top, this ascent can be a bit of a workout...

...But it's well worth it, because the views you will encounter are out of this world.

The overlook at the top of the stairs will provide you the perfect view of the east and west branches of the Rocky River.

This site offers a splendid way to explore the influence of our region's ancient ancestors...

...And it provides a dreamy way to explore this coveted park.

Want to virtually visit this site before you brave the cold? Check out this video by WANDERSON TRAVELS:

Entranced by the beauty of this site? We are too, but its history is even more humbling! What is your favorite historical site in the region? Tell us in the comments!

Love local history? We bet you didn’t know these unusual facts in Cleveland history!

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Rocky River Reservation, Valley Pkwy, North Olmsted, OH 44070, USA

This Hidden Trail Near Cleveland Leads To A Magnificent Archaeological Treasure

Nikki Rhoades

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