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    Boating, Sailing & Paddlesports

    Parks | Visit | Activities
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    With multiple lakes, rivers, and Lake Erie shorelines, boating opportunities in Cleveland Metroparks abound and range from paddlesports such as canoeing, kayaking, and stand up paddleboarding to sailing and powerboating.

    Hinckley Lake and Wallace Lake are perfect flatwater venues for beginner paddlers or guests looking for paddling in limited wind, waves, and traffic conditions.

    The Lake Erie Water Trail – Cuyahoga County spans 20+ miles along the lakefront connecting to both the Cuyahoga River Water Trail, Rocky River, and Euclid Creek.  Paddlers should be prepared to paddle in open water in which the weather, wind, waves, and water conditions should be assessed before paddling. 

    • Lake Erie Water Trail Map & Safety Brochure
      • Discover one of the area’s greatest natural resources, Lake Erie, by paddling the Lake Erie Water Trail at one of the 13 access points. Be sensitive to private property along the trail and only stop at approved access points.
      • Access points include safety signage as well as mile marker signage.
      • Expect high cliff lines when paddling on the West side of Cleveland. High cliff lines limit emergency access/resting areas and can cause the water to reverberate creating a washing machine effect. Know your paddling ability and plan routes accordingly.
      • Near downtown Cleveland, when launching from Wendy Park, give freighters the right of way.Monitor freighter traffic using a marine VHF radio on channel 16 as well as using apps/websites such as marrinetraffic.com.
    • Cuyahoga River Water Trail
      • The U-shaped Cuyahoga River flows nearly 100 miles before reaching the Lower Cuyahoga River within Cleveland Metroparks. The sections range from calm, scenic sections of the Upper Cuyahoga, a more traditional river experience along the Towpath Trail, or the raging waterfall drops of the Gorge meant only for expert paddlers.
      • When paddling the Lower Cuyahoga River (launching from Merwin’s Wharf), it’s important to remember that this calm looking river quickly becomes a technical river when freighters (50x longer than a kayak with powerful thrusters that create powerful jets of water capable of flipping boats) and other large vessels maneuver the hairpin turns of this crooked river.
      • Paddlers should monitor freighter traffic with a marine VHF radio listening to channel 16 as well as using apps/websites such as marinetraffic.com. It is best to marvel at these freighters from the shore, but if you find yourself in the water as they are approaching, the next best option is to get to one of the Cuyahoga River Passing Zones shown on this map.
    With so many bodies of water, please be aware of the spread of aquatic nuisance species being spread from one body of water to another. To stop the spread, clean all vegetation and mud from boats, motors, trailers, clothing and footwear before leaving any location. Allow all equipment to fully dry before launching in a new body of water.

     Paddle Safety Tips

    • Always wear a properly fitted lifejacket.Properly fitted lifejackets should be snug enough that it doesn’t slip upwards when tugged.
    • Carry a sound signaling device such as a whistle with you.
    • Always check the 4 Ws before paddling
      • Wind, Waves, Weather, and Water.
      • Don’t paddle in anything above your skill level.
    • Practice and know how to perform self-rescues in a variety of conditions. When there is an emergency, you’ll be glad you did.
    • When paddling in cold water conditions, be sure to dress appropriately for water temperatures.
      • Consider wearing a wetsuit or dry suit when water temperatures are below 60 F.
      • In warmer water, dress in non-cotton, synthetic layers.Think the 3 Ws of layering. Wear a Wicking, Warmth, and Weather layer.
    • Carry the appropriate equipment for your craft.
      • Kayaks: lifejacket, paddle, bilge pump, webbing, sponge, dry bag to keep items such as phone, extra set of clothes, etc. dry.
      • SUPs: lifejacket, paddle, leash, dry bag to keep items such as phone, extra set of clothes, etc. dry.
    • Carry a white light such as a headlamp when paddling around sunrise/sunset, and always at night.

    Boating Resources

    • Water Quality - Ohio Nowcast
    • Nearshore Marine Forecast
    • Cuyahoga River Passing Zones Map
    • Freighter Traffic
    • Paddlesports Tips - ACA
    • Cleveland Metroparks Boating Rules and Regulations
    • Registering Your Kayak (including inflatables); SUPs are exempt from registration
    • Water Trails in Ohio

    Paddling & Sailing Educational Programs

    Outdoor Recreation offers a series of paddling & sailing programs ranging from introductory try-it sessions to more advanced skills sessions for kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, and sailing. Check out these virtual programs for additional tips & tricks for your next on water adventure.  
     

    • Hinckley Lake Boathouse & Store
      Located in Hinckley Reservation, you can rents rowboats, electric motor boats, canoes, kayaks, stand up paddleboards, pontoon boats and paddle boats.
    • Ledge Lake
      Located at Ledge Pool in Hinckley Reservation, rent paddleboats during pool hour, mid-June through Mid-August.
    • Quarry Rock Cafe at Wallace Lake 
      Located in Mill Stream Run Reservation, rent paddleboats, kayaks, and stand up paddleboards.
    • 41° North Coastal Kayak Adventures
      Located next to the Emerald Necklace Marina in Rocky River Reservation, rent kayaks and stand up paddleboards at the Yak Shack Rental Center. 

    • E55th Marina 
      Located on the shores of Lake Erie, E55th Marina accommodates dock space for vessels 16-40 feet long, electric and water at each dock, shower and restroom facilities specifically for dock users, pump out station, transient and gas docks (diesel and unleaded gas with valvtect additives available), secured winter storage, and a bait shop. Fuel Dock & Bait Shop: 216-431-3280. Restaurant: 216-431-3349.
    • Edgewater Marina 
      Located on the shores of Lake Erie at 6500 Memorial Shoreway, Edgewater Marina accommodates dock space for vessels 24-40+ feet long, electric and water at each dock, pump out station, transient and gas docks (diesel and unleaded gas with valvtect additives available), winter storage, a bait shop, and a snack bar: 216-961-5007. 
    • Emerald Necklace Marina 
      Located in Rocky River, fulfill your boating needs at this full service marina offering dockage, year-round boat storage, bait, tackle, boat accessories and snacks: 216-226-3030.
    • Wildwood Marina 
      Located on the shores of Lake Erie at 16975 Wildwood Drive, Wildwood Marina accommodates dock space for vessels up to 28 feet long, pump out station, transient and gas docks (diesel and unleaded available), a bait and tackle shop, boat charters, fishing licenses, and a snack bar: 216-481-5771. 

    Parks

    • Euclid Creek Reservation
      Euclid Creek Reservation

      Euclid Creek reservation offers shady trails and picnic areas near the creek, surrounded by steep forested hillsides and rocky cliffs.

    • Hinckley Reservation
      Hinckley Reservation

      The reservation is dominated by the 90-acre Hinckley Lake, enjoyed by ice fishermen in the winter months.

    • Huntington Reservation
      Huntington Reservation

      Huntington Reservation provides direct access to Lake Erie and offers three miles of nature trails.

    • Lakefront Reservation
      Lakefront Reservation

      From beaches to boat ramps, fitness trails to fishing piers, Lakefront Reservation is a true gem in the “Emerald Necklace”

    • Mill Stream Run Reservation
      Mill Stream Run Reservation

      Marvel at the flowing streams and ride down Ohio’s tallest, fastest toboggan chutes.

    • Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation
      Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation

      Explore a portion of the historic 309-mile Ohio & Erie canal. Scenic beauty and fishing opportunities await.

    • Rocky River Reservation
      Rocky River Reservation

      Long and narrow, this reservation follows the winding course of the Rocky River from Berea into Lakewood near Lake Erie.

    Attractions

    • 41° North Coastal Kayak Adventures
      41° North Coastal Kayak Adventures

      Cleveland Metroparks Affiliate Organization that offers kayaking & stand-up paddleboarding classes and rentals

    • East 55th Street Marina
      East 55th Street Marina

      A 1,200-foot fishing platform, fully stocked bait shop and marina store, e55 on the lake restaurant and bar and more.

    • Emerald Necklace Marina
      Emerald Necklace Marina

      Grab a bite and take in stunning panoramic views of the Rocky River, and the cliffs of the valley from the Emerald Necklace Marina.

    • Aqueduct Gateway Trailhead
      Aqueduct Gateway Trailhead

      From this loction cross Canal Road over to the Ohio & Erie Canal to inspect the Aqueduct along the Towpath Trail or take the trail by the ball...

    • Closed for the season Edgewater Nature Shop
      Edgewater Nature Shop

      Edgewater Nature Shop rents umbrellas, lounge chairs and cabanas. The facility also offers refreshments including snacks and gift cards, apparel...

    • Closed for the season Emerald Necklace Marina Cafe
      Emerald Necklace Marina Cafe

      Grab a bite and take in stunning panoramic views of the Rocky River, and the cliffs of the valley from the Emerald Necklace Marina.

    • Edgewater Beach Paddling Access
      Edgewater Beach Paddling Access

      Paddling access follows along the rock jetty inside the buoys at the far side of the beach. Please stay clear of swim area. Boat drop-off is...

    • Edgewater Park
      Edgewater Park

      Boasting views of the Cleveland skyline, Edgewater Park provides access to Lake Erie, offering fun for beach-goers and fishermen alike.

    • Edgewater Park Boat Launch
      Edgewater Park Boat Launch

      This site has eight lanes for launching and retrieving watercraft, courtesy dock, restrooms and 100 vehicle/trailer parking spaces.

    • Wendy Park
      Wendy Park

      Amenities include sand volleyball courts, picnic areas with grills, fishing and kayaking access and the Whiskey Island Marina.

    • Gordon Park Boat Launch
      Gordon Park Boat Launch

      Amenities include a six lane boat launch which has docks available for launching and retrieving watercraft from the beginning of April through the...

    • Closed for the season Wildwood Marina and Concessions
      Wildwood Marina and Concessions

      Enjoy a fully stocked ship store with all your fishing and boating needs. Live bait and tackle are available from our knowledgeable marina staff.

    • Gordon Park Paddling Access
      Gordon Park Paddling Access

      Paddlers access the lake using E. 72 boat launch ramp. To avoid boaters, paddle along the shoreline as close as conditions permit.

    • Wildwood Park
      Wildwood Park

      One of Cleveland Metroparks lakefront parks, offering guests a variety of outdoor experiences from the forest to the beach.

    • Hinckley Lake
      Hinckley Lake

      Hinckley Lake is 90-acres and provides a variety of opportunities for recreation on the water, including fishing, boating and swimming.

    • Hinckley Lake Boat Launch
      Hinckley Lake Boat Launch

      The Hinckley Lake Boat Launch is located near the boathouse parking lot off West Drive.

    • Huntington Beach Paddling Access
      Huntington Beach Paddling Access

      Beachside boat drop-off in the lower parking lot. Vehicles must be parked in the main parking lot. This section is unprotected paddling running...

    • Merwin
      Merwin's Wharf Paddling Access

      CAUTION: Large freighters and heavy boat traffic at this location.

    • Perkins Beach
      Perkins Beach

      Perkins Beach is located at the bottom of a 60ft bluff just north of Cliff Drive. It is accessible from the stairs off of the circular Perkins...

    • Perkins Beach Paddling Access
      Perkins Beach Paddling Access

      Great beach rest area. The long staircase makes put-ins and take-outs difficult.

    • Scenic Park Boat Launch
      Scenic Park Boat Launch

      A public boat launching facility, providing access to Rocky River and Lake Erie, just south of the Detroit Road entrance to Rocky River Reservation.

    • Scenic Park Paddling Access
      Scenic Park Paddling Access

      This section features the calm waters of the Rocky River. The mouth of the river can be very turbulent. Proceed with caution if entering and move...

    • Closed for the season Wallace Lake Paddleboat Rentals
      Wallace Lake Paddleboat Rentals

      Boat Rentals will not be available at Wallace Lake for the 2022 season. Please visit The Hinckley Lake Boat House for Paddle Boat, Kayak and SUP...

    • Wendy Park Paddling Access
      Wendy Park Paddling Access

      Wendy Park is protected by the breakwall and wind/wave conditions are muted. Motorboat traffic is concentrated here and can be very busy on...

    • Wildwood Boat Launch
      Wildwood Boat Launch

      With easy access to parking, Wildwood Marina, and picnic shelters make this a great spot to start your adventure onto the open waters of Lake Erie.

    • Wildwood Park Paddling Access
      Wildwood Park Paddling Access

      Paddlers put-in at the marina. Paddlers can also paddle the calm waters of Euclid Creek. Respect individuals fishing and exercise caution when in...

    Upcoming Programs & Events

    • View More Events
    • The STEM of Sailing* March 29, 2023 | 4:00 PM - 6:30 PM

      Get a handle on the mechanics behind sailing and sailboats in this family-friendly, hands-on...

      • North Chagrin Nature Center
      • View More

    • Ohio Boating Education Course* March 30, 2023 | 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

      Learn safe boating fundamentals and laws that apply to paddling, sailing, and power boating.  

      • Rocky River Nature Center
      • View More

    • Youth Kayaking* April 2, 2023 | 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

      Join us in the warmth of the pool this winter for fun kayak games and skill development.

      • 7777 Summit View Drive
      • View More

    • Learn-It: Kayaking* April 16, 2023 | 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

      Enjoy the sensation of skimming across the pool as you learn basic paddling techniques or refine...

      • 7777 Summit View Drive
      • View More

    • Try-It: Adaptive Kayaking* April 16, 2023 | 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

      Have you always wanted to try kayaking, but weren’t sure how? Adaptive kayaking is specifically...

      • 7777 Summit View Drive
      • View More

    • Bicycle Maintenance Series* April 20, 2023 | 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

      Learn how to keep your bike running smoothly and safely while prolonging the life of your bike.

      • 11350 Broadway Ave
      • View More

    Stay Up To Date
    • 4101 Fulton Parkway, Cleveland OH 44144
    • 216.635.3200
    • generalinfo@clevelandmetroparks.com
    • Police:
    • Submit a tip
    • 440.331.5530
    • Emergency: 440.333.4911
    • Text Emergencies to 911 (Cuyahoga County)
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