Hike Through This Rock Maze Near Cleveland For An Adventure Like No Other
By Nikki Rhoades|Published March 12, 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.
There are many perks to living in a big city, but one of Cleveland’s best features can actually be found outside of the metro area. Cleveland is surrounded by a beautiful series of parks loved by locals and visitors alike. The Cleveland Metroparks, Summit Metro Parks, and Cuyahoga National Park, to name just a few districts, are all breathtaking and close to home. Prepare to delve into the wonder of nature, because we’re about to hit the trails in a lovely park surrounded by maze-like rock walls.
At the heart of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park's Virginia Kendall Area is a collection of Sharon Conglomerate ledges.
These geological works of art are known locally as the Ritchie Ledges. They were formed over 310 million years ago (in the Early Pennsylvanian age) when their sand and quartz-enriched particles were deposited by the currents of ancient streams.
Early visitors flocked to this lovely natural site to enjoy summertime recreational activities. Industrialist Hayward Kendall purchased the land for use as a private hunting retreat, and upon his death, requested that around 430 acres would one day become a park in memoriam of his mother.
When the property was acquired by the state in 1929, locals began enhancing the natural landscape with incredible features.
Following the crash of the stock market, the Civilian Conservation Corps carried out New Deal era projects on the property. The stone staircases and structures in this park will make you feel like you're in a fairy tale, and they're gorgeous in every season.
This incredible site attracts both locals and visitors from all over the nation. As it was in the 1930s, Virginia Kendall Park continues to provide a natural retreat away from city life.
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If you stray off of its 1.8-mile loop trail, you may also find yourself approaching a breathtaking scenic overlook.
This site is very likely one of the most photographed destinations in Ohio's National Park. Locals are mesmerized as receding sunlight kisses the alley beneath this overlook, and the effect is incredible in any season.
Prepare to visit a site that combines nature and history in a way you'll never forget.
As you explore this natural site, you'll find yourself walking along millions of years of Ohio history. Recent history has left an incredible mark on this site, making this a picturesque destination you'll want to return to time and time again.
Adventure awaits in the picture-perfect landscape of Northeast Ohio.
This gorgeous park is truly a treat for Northeast Ohioans, and it enchants visitors from all around the world. Have you ever visited Virginia Kendall Park’s Ritchie Ledges? Share some of your favorite photos in the comments, or join in on the conversation in our Ohio Nature Lovers Facebook group.
