Skip to content
  • Home
  • Parks
  • Golf
  • Zoo
  • Dining
  • About
  • Submit a tip
  • Police Department & Safety
  • Contact the Police: 440.331.5530
  • Emergency: 440.333.4911
  • Users with low vision can activate this option to help them read text.
  • Users prone to seizures can deactivate this option to ensure that the site does not cause any blinking animations.
  • Allow content to change automatically
  • Accessibility Information
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
  • Visit
  • Calendar
  • Education
  • Recreation
  • Shop
  • Support
View All Results

    Exploring Nature

    Parks | Visit | Activities
    Share This

    Riotous colors of wildflowers paint Cleveland Metroparks landscapes like an artist's canvas during spring and summer. In fall, trees take center stage as they trade green leaves for gold, and when the snow begins to fall, hearty winter plants thrive under Northeast Ohio's echoing winters. Learn more about the region's plants by uncovering little-known facts and useful tips about plants in your community.

    Parks

    • Bedford Reservation
      Bedford Reservation

      Enjoy the challenging trails, scenic streams and sprawling forest of Bedford reservation.

    • Big Creek Reservation
      Big Creek Reservation

      Big Creek Reservation serves primarily as an urban greenway, which winds along Big Creek through the southwest suburbs of Cuyahoga County.

    • Bradley Woods Reservation
      Bradley Woods Reservation

      This swamp forest boasts hiking trails, walking paths, Bunns Lake and a monarch butterfly waystation.

    • Brecksville Reservation
      Brecksville Reservation

      Brecksville Reservation, the largest of the 18 Cleveland Metroparks reservations, offers scenic overlooks and historical landmarks.

    • Brookside Reservation
      Brookside Reservation

      Brookside Reservation is 132 acres of diverse wildlife refuge, recreational opportunities, and optimal picnicking areas.

    • Garfield Park Reservation
      Garfield Park Reservation

      View the county’s largest waterfall, enjoy the rich deep woodlands, green space, and vibrant songbirds of Garfield Park Reservation.

    • Hinckley Reservation
      Hinckley Reservation

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

    • 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.

    • North Chagrin Reservation
      North Chagrin Reservation

      Explore one of the original corridors of the Emerald Necklace at North Chagrin reservation. Scenic views of the Chagrin River 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.

    • South Chagrin Reservation
      South Chagrin Reservation

      Explore one of the most biologically diverse reservations in Cleveland Metroparks at South Chagrin reservation.

    • West Creek Reservation
      West Creek Reservation

      West Creek is 326 acres of rocky gorges, forest-draped hillsides, floodplains and babbling brooks.

    Attractions

    • A.B. Williams Memorial Woods
      A.B. Williams Memorial Woods

      Wander through a dense maze of giant trees in this stunning example of an old growth beech-maple forest.

    • Alexander Road Trailhead at Sagamore Creek
      Alexander Road Trailhead at Sagamore Creek

      Sagamore Creek Loop is a hidden gem among steep forested slopes, where one can view several small waterfalls and deep ravines.

    • Astorhurst Park
      Astorhurst Park

      The former location of the Astorhurst Golf Course, this site is an excellent place to begin a hike through the beautiful Bedford Reservation.

    • Berea Falls Scenic Overlook
      Berea Falls Scenic Overlook

      The raging waters of Rocky River that formed the Berea Falls are a piece of glacial history.

    • Beyer
      Beyer's Pond

      A wooded, 0.7 mile trail leads to the pond, stocked with channel catfish, sunfish and largemouth bass.

    • Bluebird Point Overlook
      Bluebird Point Overlook

      Bluebird Point is a viewing area along an easily accessible all purpose loop trail at the top of a 22-acre landfill.

    • Bridal Veil Falls Scenic Overlook
      Bridal Veil Falls Scenic Overlook

      Immerse yourself in the spectacular cascading falls surrounded by hardwoods and hemlocks.

    • Brighton Park
      Brighton Park

      Brighton Park features a half mile of looped natural surface trails as well as a scenic overlook of Big Creek, the Cuyahoga River’s third largest...

    • Brookside Overlook
      Brookside Overlook

      Brookside Overlook provides a scenic bird’s-eye-view of lower Brookside Reservation’s ball fields and Big Creek as it joins Cuyahoga River.

    • Bunns Lake
      Bunns Lake

      Bunns Lake was created to provide a waterfowl habitat and provide fishing opportunities. It’s the perfect spot for nature lovers.

    • Burnt Ridge Wetland
      Burnt Ridge Wetland

      Small wetland that hosts a large number of frogs and invertebrates. Access to the All Purpose Trail.

    • Buttermilk Falls Scenic Overlook
      Buttermilk Falls Scenic Overlook

      Experience the unique geology and scenic waterfall of North Chagrin at Buttermilk Falls Scenic Overlook.

    • Buzzard Roost
      Buzzard Roost

      Celebrate the return of spring and Buzzards at Hinckley Reservation every year on March 15.

    • Cherry Grove Picnic Area
      Cherry Grove Picnic Area

      Cherry Grove Picnic Area is located along the south side of John Nagy Blvd. in Brookside Reservation in the Old Brooklyn neighborhood of Cleveland.

    • Chippewa Creek Gorge
      Chippewa Creek Gorge

      Enjoy the natural surface trail with access down into the scenic Chippewa Creek Gorge.

    • Chippewa Creek Gorge Scenic Overlook
      Chippewa Creek Gorge Scenic Overlook

      Take in the beauty of the creek flowing through the gorge left behind by the glaciers that once covered this area.

    • Deer Lick Cave
      Deer Lick Cave

      Explore this beautiful geological site in any season. You may even see a white-tailed deer and find out how Deer Lick Cave got its name.

    • Edgewater Beach
      Edgewater Beach

      Soak up the sun and sand while admiring the city’s skyline. Swim, picnic, walk the dog or kick the ball around.

    • eLCee2 Water Taxi
      eLCee2 Water Taxi

      The eLCee2 Water Taxi shuttles passengers and bicycles across the Cuyahoga River in the summer months. The Water Taxi is free, ADA accessible and...

    • Engle Road Connector
      Engle Road Connector

      This all purpose trail improves access to the Lake-to-Lake Trail and connects the sledding recreation area and Engle Road.

    • Engle Road Sled Riding Hill
      Engle Road Sled Riding Hill

      Engle Road Sled Riding Hill is an excellent hill for beginner sledders.

    • Fort Hill
      Fort Hill

      This iconic landmark is one of the most picturesque locations in the Emerald Necklace. The Fort Hill Stairs ascend to stunning views 90 feet above...

    • Fowles Marsh
      Fowles Marsh

      Located along the Lake to Lake Trail in Big Creek Reservation, this restored marshland contains mudflats that provide great waterfowl viewing.

    • Grassroots Gorge Overlook
      Grassroots Gorge Overlook

      The Grassroots Gorge Overlook is located at a terminus of the all-purpose trail and offers scenic views of the West Creek.

    • Great Falls of Tinker
      Great Falls of Tinker's Creek

      Enjoy stunning views and visit the former saw and grist mills, as well as a viaduct that carried trains over Tinker’s Creek.

    • Henry Church, Jr., Rock
      Henry Church, Jr., Rock

      This long-term ephemeral landmark is a piece of cultural history immersed in nature by the riverside.

    • Iron Springs Reserved Shelter
      Iron Springs Reserved Shelter

    • Jackson Field
      Jackson Field

      Jackson Field is home to abundant plant and animal species that thrive in our fields, wetlands, and forests.

    • Keystone Loop
      Keystone Loop

      A dedicated small parking lot provides easy access to Keystone Loop and a trail connection to Skyline Overlook Trail, offering views of downtown...

    • Lake Abram Marsh
      Lake Abram Marsh

      The largest remaining glacial wetland in Cuyahoga County, Lake Abram makes up 80 acres of unique and critical wildlife habitat.

    • Lake Isaac
      Lake Isaac

      This birding hotspot was once a “kettle lake” sculpted by glaciers during the Ice Age.

    • Lindsey Family Play Space at Edgewater
      Lindsey Family Play Space at Edgewater

      The play area features a wide range of nature play opportunities including boulders, water and sand, as well as climbing structures and shaded...

    • Little Overlook
      Little Overlook

      Enjoy the breathtaking view of Tinker’s Creek Valley as you hike along the woodland or all-purpose trails.

    • Mill Creek Falls Overlook
      Mill Creek Falls Overlook

      Mill Creek Falls, Cuyahoga County’s tallest waterfall, is located in Cleveland. Mill Creek Falls stands at 48 feet tall. Come walk the 2-mile all...

    • Old Field
      Old Field

      Old Field is a small parking lot located just North of Chagrin Blvd. This area features 2 picnic tables and views of the beautiful fields.

    • Ottawa Overlook Backcountry Site 1
      Ottawa Overlook Backcountry Site 1

      Site 1 is nestled inside of the backcountry site’s camp triangle most proximal to the kitchen and food storage areas. The 12’ x 17’ designated tent...

    • Ottawa Overlook Backcountry Site 2
      Ottawa Overlook Backcountry Site 2

      Site 2 overlooks the ridge allowing you to wake up to gorgeous views outside of your vestibule. The slightly larger 16’ x 22’ designated tent area...

    • Ottawa Overlook Backcountry Site 3
      Ottawa Overlook Backcountry Site 3

      Site 3 "The Perch" features a wooden tent platform that can accommodate one 4-person tent or two small 2-person tents. The 10’ x 12’ designated...

    • 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...

    • Quarry Rock
      Quarry Rock

      An overlook deck affords a picturesque view of the Aurora Branch of the Chagrin River complete with water cascades.

    • Rogers Meadow
      Rogers Meadow

      Enjoy a diverse variety of insect life and wildflowers throughout the seasons.

    • Scranton Flats Pier
      Scranton Flats Pier

      Located under the Hope Memorial Bridge this river observation deck allows for close-up views of the Cleveland skyline. Watch huge cargo ships...

    • Scranton Road Peninsula
      Scranton Road Peninsula

      Running from University Rd. to Carter Rd. this area features public fishing access, a river observation deck and fish habitat breeding areas.

    • Skinners Run Trailhead at Dentzler Road
      Skinners Run Trailhead at Dentzler Road

      The trailhead offers a steep gravel-stone approach into the forested floodplains of West Creek. The trailhead connects park users to additional...

    • Strawberry Pond
      Strawberry Pond

      Enjoy a serene day of fishing. Two fishing platforms allow you to observe aquatic wildlife.

    • Strongsville Wildlife Area
      Strongsville Wildlife Area

      The Strongsville Wildlife Area allows park visitors the opportunity to observe wetland wildlife, including birds and bats.

    • Tallgrass Prairie
      Tallgrass Prairie

      This planted 4-acre tall grass prairie is a unique ecosystem with incredible plant and animal diversity.

    • Tinkers Creek Gorge Scenic Overlook
      Tinkers Creek Gorge Scenic Overlook

      Tinker's Creek Gorge Scenic Overlook is a National Natural Landmark and offers a spectacular vista particularly in the fall.

    • Wendy Park Bridge
      Wendy Park Bridge

      The Wendy Park Bridge links the Cleveland Foundation Centennial Lake Link Trail to Wendy Park on Whiskey Island and Lake Erie.

    • West Drive Scenic Overlook
      West Drive Scenic Overlook

      Soak in the scenic view of the east branch of the Rocky River just before it enters Hinckley Lake.

    • Whipp
      Whipp's Ledges

      The only place in Northeast Ohio that permits rock climbing. Explore the massive exposed sandstone ledge located off State Road.

    • Whiskey Island Trail
      Whiskey Island Trail

      Whiskey Island Trail completes a missing link between Edgewater Park to Wendy Park on Whiskey Island with 1.2 miles of all purpose trail.

    • Wilson Mills Trailhead
      Wilson Mills Trailhead

      Wilson Mills Trailhead is a beautiful trail combining an old roadway and new all purpose trail. Enjoy a variety of year-round exercise opportunities.

    • Worden
      Worden's Ledges

      Worden’s Ledge features carvings of historical figures done by Noble Stuart along the exposed sand ledge.

    Upcoming Programs & Events

    • View More Events
    • Art Wall: Artists of the Metroparks February 8, 2023 | 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM

      This month enjoy a collection of art created by employees of the Cleveland Metroparks Outdoor...

      • Rocky River Nature Center
      • View More

    • Sunset at Acacia February 8, 2023 | 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM

      Join Naturalist Nicole Hindman on a relaxing evening stroll. Wear footwear appropriate for...

      • Acacia Reservation Trailhead
      • View More

    • Art Wall: Artists of the Metroparks February 9, 2023 | 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM

      This month enjoy a collection of art created by employees of the Cleveland Metroparks Outdoor...

      • Rocky River Nature Center
      • View More

    • Sprouts: Hibernation February 9, 2023 | 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

      Join Naturalist Natalie Schroder on a discovery about hibernation. We will read a story, have...

      • North Chagrin Nature Center
      • View More

    • New in Nature February 9, 2023 | 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

      Join Naturalist Jeff Riebe on a hike to discover what's new in nature this month along the scenic...

      • Quarry Rock Picnic Area
      • View More

    • Sprouts: Hibernation February 9, 2023 | 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

      Join Naturalist Natalie Schroder on a discovery about hibernation. We will read a story, have...

      • North Chagrin Nature Center
      • 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)
    • Parks
      • Visit
      • Calendar
      • Education
      • Recreation
      • Shop
      • Support
    • Golf
      • Courses
      • Lessons & Events
      • Pricing
      • About
    • Zoo
      • Tickets & Attractions
      • Programs & Events
      • Wildlife Conservation
      • Education
      • Animals
      • Buy Tickets
    • About
      • Cleveland Metroparks Organization
      • Employment
      • Education
      • Recreation
      • Conservation
      • Planning & Design
    • Programs & Events
    • News & Press
    • Board Meetings
    • Privacy Policy
    Home
    © 2023 Cleveland Metroparks. All Rights Reserved.