10 of the Best Trails for Snow
White Pine Loop, North Chagrin Reservation
One of the last remaining naturally occurring stands of Eastern White Pine in Northeast Ohio can be admired against a winter backdrop on this short loop trail. White pines were highly prized lumber trees during he 19th and early 20th centuries, and most were cut down. Today they are commonly seen as landscaping trees and in row plantings. Most of this trail is a boardwalk over dry land to protect pines and the understory of hemlocks from social compaction. A small overlook offers a peaceful place for relaxation and contemplation at the edge of a small gulch with a stream trickling by.
Tyler Barn, Rocky River Reservation
This paved trail winds through a forest of pine and cedar trees, offering peaceful views of the frozen Rocky River. Keep an eye out for winter wildlife along the way - such as barred owls perched overhead and fresh animal tracks from raccoons, mink, and mice in the powdery snow.
Bunns Lake Loop, Bradley Woods Reservation
This paved loop offers unique glimpse of the swamp forest in winer. Burns Lake attracts a variety of wildlife - even in the cold- so watch for winter waterfowl like ducks and geese, as well as muskrats and other water-dwelling species along your walk.
Hemlock Trail, Brecksville Reservation
Enjoy the serenity of this trail as the snow blankets the Hemlock trees lining the north facing slopes of the Chippewa Creek gorge. It is common to hear the call of the barred owl along this trail, so make sure you are listening.
Woodpecker Way Loop, Acacia Reservation
Do you like to look at the snow but don't like to slip on it? While main roads take precedence, the park makes an effort to also keep Acacia's paved trails clear during the winter. Enjoy beautiful snowy scenes and observe the wildlife that calls this natural oasis home!
Hickory Fox Trail, North Chagrin Reservation
This dynamic trail winds through Hemlock-lined cliffs and massive tree canopies, providing many places to stop and enjoy the quiet serenity of winter snow. This trail can get muddy when it all melts, so winter is the perfect time to enjoy this trail and the beautiful views it has to offer.
Keystone Loop, West Creek Reservation
This forested trail winds its way through a beautiful beech-maple forest. If you're looking for a serene wander in the park, this is the place to go! The trails get deep with snow which makes it an excellent snowshoeing opportunity as well.
Wildlife Management Loop, Rocky River Reservation
Tucked behind Fort Hill, this peaceful loop is a great spot to hear great horned owls calling each other on winter evenings. Hikers can also take a short detour to see the 19th century buildings of Frostville Museum in the snow.
Lake Issac Loop, Big Creek Reservation
Bring your family for a winter day at Big Creek Reservation! The 1.2 mile Lake Issac Loop takes you through a variety of habitats perfect for winter exploration. After, you can hike or drive to the Engle Road Sledding Hill for fun in the snow!
Buckeye Trail from Broadway Trailhead to Richmond Road, Bedford Reservation
Traverse this 2.5 mile (one-way) section of the Buckeye Trail as it winds through towering trees along the gentle curves of Tinker's Creek. Watch for flocks of common mergansers and wood ducks and don't miss the historic remnant of an 1800s mill dam tucked into the landscape.
