9 Magnificent Trails You Have To Hike In Cleveland Before You Die
By Nikki Rhoades|Published May 21, 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.
There is nothing quite like summer in the CLE. As the sun shines and birds sing, the landscape feels especially magical. Whether you’re in an urban escape or a suburban oasis, there are many places in and around Cleveland that amplify the good vibes of summertime. This year, these gorgeous hikes simply must top your bucket list:
Nestled in the charming Bedford Reservation is a waterfall that is incredibly breathtaking. It is tucked away in a deep gorge, which Tinkers Creek carved out over thousands of years. This charming stream is one of the largest tributaries of the Cuyahoga River, and it also features one of the loveliest waterfalls in the area. If you look closely, you can still see ruins of the mill town that once surrounded these spectacular falls.
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2. Fort Loop Trail (Rocky River Reservation, North Olmsted)
To the untrained eye, these structures may not appear to be much of anything; however, they are actually authentic earthwork sites that were built by a group that lived in the area until circa 1100 C.E. To plan your trip and access an interactive map, click here.
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3. Blue Hen Falls (2001 Boston Mills Rd., Brecksville)
The entirety of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park is humbling, but nothing is as mesmerizing as its gorgeous falls. Blue Hen Falls is one of a few waterfalls hidden in the park, trickling 15 feet over Berea Sandstone. Be warned; the trail back is a steep incline, which isn't too challenging to hike, but is definitely a workout. Bring lots of water to keep you hydrated!
Though this location requires a bit of a drive, the gorgeous landscape is well worth the journey. Here, you'll immerse yourself in one of the loveliest and largest marshes in Greater Cleveland. This picturesque boardwalk allows you to get up close and personal with nature, and the dreamy scenes that you encounter will remain treasured memories for years to come.
The thinly chunked shale of these stone walls are remnants of Ohio's days as an ancient ocean, and the 65-foot waterfall that trickles over them is truly enchanting. As you descend into the gorge below, you'll traverse a short trail and a boardwalk that will get you close to the gorgeous falls. For more on this picturesque hidden gem, click here.
This gorgeous getaway is hidden in the heart of Brunswick's hustle and bustle, and one could easily drive past the park for years without even realizing it is there. This gorgeous hike will take you to petite yet impressive sandstone walls, remnants of the former shore of Lake Erie. Bring your furry friends along for the fun!
7. Whipp’s Ledges, Hinckley Lake Loop Trail (Hinckley)
In the southernmost reaches of the Cleveland Metroparks is a gorgeous reservation filled with wonder. Hinckley Reservation may be famous for its lake, but the nearby trail circling through Whipp's Ledges is a must-visit this summer. Unlike the petite Princess Ledges nearby, these sandstone cliffs tower over the valley, some measuring as high as 350 feet.
Hidden within an urban neighborhood is truly a hidden gem. This impressive stream was actually diverted by the railroads over a century ago, but one would never know by simply looking at the falls. Their gorgeous crest and veil-like appearance are mesmerizing year-round, but they are particularly stunning after a rainstorm.
Hidden near the gorgeous Whipp's Ledges in Hinckley Reservation is a gorgeous site where nature and art interact in the most magical way. The trail is less than a mile long, but it will take you to the antique etchings of Noble Stuart. For more on the history of this weird and wonderful site, click here.
These stunning trails are some of the loveliest in Greater Cleveland, and they are guaranteed to fill your summer with adventure. How many of these picturesque places have you visited?
Don’t forget to share photos from your outdoor adventures with us on our Ohio Nature Lovers Facebook group or on Instagram using #onlyincleveland for a chance to see your snapshots featured!