Ten Big Trees to Discover in Cleveland Metroparks
Cottonwood - Lower Fern Hill, Big Creek Reservation
Cottonwood trees are fast growing and can reach massive size in a fraction of what it takes many other trees on our list. Their leaves shimmer in the wind with shades of light green and silver, making this tree an eye catching feature of any floodplain.
Tuliptree - Iron Springs Loop Trail, Garfield Park Reservation
In a forest setting, tuliptrees have the potential to be the tallest broadleaf species of tree in the nation. Grown in an open setting, they boast massive trunks and produce broad canopies that can be loaded with showy, tulip-like flowers in late May through early June.
Red Oak - West Channel Pond Trail, Rocky River Reservation
The Northern red oaks of Cleveland Metroparks are some of the largest in Ohio. Their immense size and tremendous value to wildlife make them a must-see tree in several park reservations.
American Beech - Sylvan Loop Trail, North Chagrin Reservation
American beech are an iconic tree of mature forests. Their smooth, gray bark and slender, pointy buds make them stand out to even the least experienced nature enthusiasts.
Sycamore - next to playground/baseball diamonds, Brookside Reservation
Some of the largest trees in Ohio are American sycamores. Their iconic white-topped branches and massive leaves help them to stand out in any landscape.
White Oak - Hemlock Loop Trail, Brecksville Reservation
Eastern white oak trees were once over-harvested for their lumber, but several large examples still thrive in Cleveland Metroparks. These trees can survive to 600 years old and provide a bounty of acorns as a food source to local wildlife.
American Hophornbeam - Look About Lodge, South Chagrin Reservation
American hophornbeams are typically small understory trees of the forest. This particular example is so large for the species that it will have you second-guessing if you are standing in front of the right tree.
American Elm - near Acacia Clubhouse, Acacia Reservation
American elm trees are known for their dramatic fountain-like figure, providing shelter and shade for humans and wildlife alike. These were once a common street tree throughout the region, until an invasive blight swept through and wiped out a large portion of the population.
Burr Oak - Astorhurst, Bedford Reservation
Burr oaks are slow growing but can reach tremendous size with enough time and sunlight. They are known for their massive trunks, enormous acorns and immense value to wildlife. The acorns from this particular tree are being used to reestablish the nearby floodplain for our future generations.
Weeping Willow - Edgewater Beach, Lakefront Reservation
This non-native tree has become a legend of the Cleveland lakefront. Weathering brutal winters and harsh storms, it has survived to witness countless picnics, first dates and engagements. It is believed to have been established in the 1950s, and with an estimated 50 - 85 year life span, this is a must-see tree, at every opportunity.