Cleveland Metroparks: Hiking Guide
Located all over the greater Cleveland area, the “Emerald Necklace” is home to some absolutely stunning parks, from the waterfalls to the historic structures, to overlooks, and more. Considering how large the Cleveland Metroparks are (18 reservations, golf courses, a zoo, and more) there’s a ton of trails to choose from within each of the reservations. So here are my top five favorite trails I love to hike.
Bedford Reservation
Whipp’s Ledges Trail
Located in the Hinckley Reservation, this is such a cool trail if you love ledges. You get to walk through the massive rock formations and feel totally apart from the city. Simply park in the lot and head up the trail and you’ll be transported back in time on this fairly easy trail.
Length: 1.3-mile loop
Difficulty: Easy, moderately trafficked
Deer Lick Cave Trail
Located in the Brecksville Reservation, it can get pretty busy, but it’s a great trail to go exploring. Along this trail, you’ll come across the namesake, Deer Lick Cave, and a small waterfall around the corner.
Length: 4.1-mile loop
Difficulty: Moderate, moderately trafficked
Scenic Loop at Squire’s Castle
There’s a castle here, what else do you need to know to convince you to come here? The North Chagrin Reservation showcases one of the Ohio castles, Squire’s Castle. Behind the castle lies the Scenic Loop, which will take you into the woods with some great views.
Length: 1.6 miles, loop
Difficulty: Moderate, moderately trafficked
Hinckley Lake Loop
Located in the Hinckley Reservation, this trail is a good workout and provides great views of the lake. The trail takes you all around the large Hinckley Lake, where you’ll spot some wildlife and other pretty views.
Length: 3.1 miles, loop
Difficulty: moderate, heavily trafficked
Henry Church Rock Loop Trail
My personal favorite trail in the South Chagrin Reservation, this fairly moderate trail will take you from the parking lot through the eastern hemlocks and ledges down to the waterfall and the Henry Church rock (Squaw Rock to some). Depending on when you go, you may even see some stunning seasonal waterfalls along the way as well.
Length: 0.6 mile loop
Difficulty: Moderate, heavily trafficked
