In Northeast Ohio winter is often seen as a time to hibernate and stay indoors. Well, we here at Cleveland Metroparks don’t subscribe to this notion. Because, we know for a fact that there are amazing outdoor activities happening all around the Emerald Necklace.
To help you make the most of this frosty time of year, we have compiled this awesome list of wintertime activities:
1. The Chalet Toboggan Chutes: The undisputed champ of wintertime fun – hands down. Nothing beats the thrill of flying down the twin toboggan chutes at 50 mph. Plus, the chutes are refrigerated so they stay open even when the weather creeps into the 50s. [More...]
**Insider’s Tip – On nights with a cold drizzle you will go the fastest and the crowds are smaller.
2. Cross-Country Skiing: Most people don’t know that cross-country skiing is permitted on all Cleveland Metroparks hiking and bridle trails. The best cross-country experiences though are found on our golf courses. With at least a 4-inch base of snow, park-goers can enjoy skiing Big Met, Little Met, Shawnee Hills, Seneca, Mastick Woods, Washington and Sleepy Hollow golf courses.
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And, if you are just starting the sport, rentals are available at Big Met Golf Course
3. Hand Feed a Chickadee: This is a perpetual favorite. The magic of having a cute little bird land and eat from your hand is second to none. It’s also an activity the entire family can enjoy together. Try it out every weekend at Brecksville Nature Center through the end of February.
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4. Sledding: Woooooooo hoooooooooo!!! Why is it so awesome to go flying down a hill on a piece of shaped plastic? No one knows, it just is. Sledding is just fun, in its purest form. It can be enjoyed by everyone and doesn’t require any practice. Bring the whole family or a group of friends and hit any one the 13 sledding areas located throughout the Park District.
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5. Winter Hikes: If you have never ventured out on our trails in winter you are truly missing out. The quiet forests this time of year are a blissful experience. Hiking the trails give you time to reflect and think while your lungs and body take in the refreshing crisp air. You will feel so alive when you’re done. And, the wildlife that sticks out the tough Ohio winters is so much easier to see and enjoy!
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Rocky River Reservation by Ihor Balaban
6. Snowshoeing: Trying to keep those New Year’s resolutions? Snowshoeing is a great way to sneak in a winter workout! Keep your fitness goals rolling by getting out and hitting any of our trails (475-750 calories burned per hour). Our Outdoor Recreation staff also offers rentals and lessons throughout winter!
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7. Visit Look About Lodge: And, if you truly do not want to venture outdoors during winter, may we recommend cozying up in beautiful Look About Lodge with a cup of cocoa to watch the snow fall? Built in 1937, this chestnut cabin is an enchanting place to visit. The Lodge is open during programs and every Sunday from noon to 4 p.m.
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