This 4-Mile Hike In Cleveland's Rocky River Reservation Takes You Through An Enchanting Forest
By Nikki Rhoades|Published October 10, 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.
When it comes to the great outdoors, one wouldn’t typically think of a city like Cleveland. However, our lovely little community is surrounded by one of the finest park districts in the world. Some of the best hikes around can be enjoyed in Rocky River Reservation – with 2,579 acres, it’s the perfect place near Cleveland to run, hike, or enjoy a picnic. One of the finest hikes in the park will take you through a forest that’s downright enchanting… however, it is a bit lengthy. Grab some bug spray and sunscreen, because this trek through the great outdoors is a must for Cleveland nature lovers.
Locals agree that one of the finest hiking trails in the entire state is hiding in Rocky River Reservation.
Rocky River Reservation is the oldest of the Cleveland Metroparks, but it remains one of the most popular, even as new parks are opening with relative frequency. This slice of paradise has a landscape that's mighty and dramatic, offering some of the most incredible views in all of Greater Cleveland.
Surrounding the Rocky River Nature Center is the equivalent of roughly four miles of trails, and each offers a view that seems to rival the scenery of the last.
Around the charming educational center, you'll find the Fort Hill Loop, the Woodland Loop, the West Channel Pond Loop, and the Mount Pleasant Loop. The trails can be explored in a series or individually.
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Along this trail is the iconic and picturesque Rocky River Reservation staircase, which is a steep climb, but one that every Clevelander should experience.
It's important to wear comfortable shoes on this journey! Four miles is a lot of land to traverse, and the Fort Hill area of the park can be a challenge for some people.
This loop is a mere half-mile in total and it effortlessly blends into Mount Pleasant Loop, which will be the longest portion of your journey. At 1.5 miles, the upcoming stretch can (understandably) merit its own day trip.
Set your own pace as you explore the trails around the Nature Center because there is so much to see in the woodlands of Rocky River Reservation.
Flora and fauna of all varieties grace this landscape, and it seems each trail has a little surprise to entertain visitors with. These woods constitute one of the most breathtaking hikes in the area, so you simply must plan a visit!
You can find a map of the Rocky River Reservation hiking trails here.
The enchanting forest of Rocky River Reservation is one of the most untamed places near Cleveland, and the scene it paints is downright mesmerizing. The hikes around the Nature Center are a must for Cleveland residents and visitors alike, but it’s one of many splendid spots worthy of exploration. Which of the Cleveland Metroparks is your favorite?
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