Hike the Buckeye Trail along along the State Designated Scenic Chagrin River, or visit a historic sculpture.
Rugged trails lead you through hemlock forests, sandstone ledges, coldwater creeks and ravines. The Chagrin River, designated as a Scenic River, borders the eastern edge of the reservation. Sites rich in history include Look About Lodge, Henry Church, Jr. Rock, Quarry Rock, the Polo Field, and the old Boy Scout Camp.
- South Chagrin Reservation
- Driving Directions
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6:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.
- 440.473.3370
- Park Trail Map
The outdoor sculpture known as Henry Church, Jr. Rock in South Chagrin Reservation was carved by artist and blacksmith Henry Church, Jr. in 1885. Church walked through the Chagrin River at night to sculpt this large sandstone boulder. Included in the carving is a quiver of arrows (with the four phases of the moon), a giant serpent, an eagle, a woman with a shell behind her (reminiscent of Botticelli's Venus), a dog, skeleton, and a baby in a papoose. While many have speculated the meaning of the work, it is not known what message Mr. Church actually wanted to convey through this piece. Other smaller carvings can be found on the river side of the rock, although it is uncertain whether they were carved by Henry Church, Jr.
The reservation is located in Bentleyville, Solon and Moreland Hills, and also features an Arboretum, Polo Field and many interesting trails to explore. Look About Lodge, a log cabin built in 1938 by the Cleveland Natural Science Club, offers year-round outdoor education programming for all ages.
Activities
Amenities
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Electricity
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Fireplace
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Grills
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Horseshoe Pits
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Information / Assistance
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Parking
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Picnic Tables
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Restrooms
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Trail Access
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Volleyball Courts
Attractions
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Arbor Picnic Area Trailhead
A wide-open, grassy area of South Chagrin Reservation with lots of sun and space for a picnic. -
Coasting Hill
This sledding hill is located Just South of Solon Rd. Parking is available at the Coasting Hill parking lot and at the Shadow Lake Picnic Area. There is no lighting on the hill. -
Henry Church, Jr., Rock
This long-term ephemeral landmark is a piece of cultural history immersed in nature by the riverside. Blacksmith, spiritualist, and artist Henry Church carved the images in the rock, dating the...
Facilities
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Harper Ridge Reservable Picnic Area
Area features are an open sided shelter, grills, picnic tables, a volleyball court, horseshoes, swings, solar powered lighting and a restroom facility. This area can also be rented for a picnic or gat... -
Hawthorn Ridge Picnic Area
Located just north of Solon Road on Hawthorn Parkway this area is a great location for a lunch break or picnic. There is a short hiking trail located at this picnic area for those who would like to ta... -
Henry Church, Jr., Rock Picnic Area
Located east of Route 91 on Hawthorn Parkway this area is a great place for a picnic or to meet for a hike. There are several trails to choose from in this location. The picnic area features a swing s...
Programs & Events
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Nature's Engineers One-Day Camp
Be inspired by nature’s engineers during forest hikes and creek walking. Then try your hand at engineering challenges by designing and building your own shelters, rafts, and more! -
Littles at the Lodge: Flutter
Explore your parks with baby in tow! Meet at Look About Lodge for a story and some hands-on nature before taking baby outside for some fresh air. This month, we’ll see who is flyin... -
Stream Stroll
Take a scenic creek walk with family and friends through the waters of Sulphur Springs with Naturalist Sebastian Stefanoff. Come prepared with closed-toe water shoes and clothes t...
