An Enchanting 562-Acre Park, The Rookery Is One Of Greater Cleveland’s Best Kept Secrets
By Nikki Rhoades|Published November 02, 2018
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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.
The fascinating thing about our local parks is that many of them are rich in history. From the vibrant foliage of former quarries to the sleepy remnants of the old canalways, our landscape hides secrets amidst the din of various habitats. Such wonders expand well outside of Cleveland’s city limits, and these neighboring places are awaiting exploration. Bundle up, grab some hiking boots, and let’s hit the road!
Roughly 40 minutes outside of Cleveland's city limits is a gorgeous park that's breathtaking in all seasons.
The Geauga County Park District encompasses a landscape that is too close to home to ignore. The lovely features of these parks contrast beautifully with the Cleveland Metroparks, hiding unique histories and habitats.
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The park is shaped by the presence of the Chagrin River, and the remnants of the old Interurban Railroad Junction still remain.
Children will love the beauty of this park and the history they discover along the way. The Interurban Trail is gravel, but the Woodcock Trail is more stroller-friendly with paved asphalt.
The straight-shot Interurban Trail makes for an otherworldly hiking experience, regardless of the season.
The site has served as a Great Blue Heron treetop colony for more than six decades, and the heron rookery can still be accessed on naturalist-led hikes.
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The park is open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., and its landscape is a treat to see in every season.
For information about seasonal events, click here.
With 562 acres to explore and a landscape that's straight out of a fairy tale, it is amazing that so many Cleveland natives have yet to visit this park.
For more information, visit the Geauga Park District website here.
The remnants of the old Interurban Railroad Junction are a fascinating piece of local history. Have you ever visited this park? Which season would you say is best for a visit?
