Explore the great outdoors without leaving the Cleveland area
With over 24,000 acres of preserved land, Cleveland Metroparks are an oasis for outdoor enthusiasts. The natural areas are divided into 18 reservations that offer plenty of opportunities for hiking, swimming, fishing and outdoor fun. While there’s something special about each reservation, here are some of our favorites.
#1. Brecksville Reservation (Brecksville)
Brecksville Reservation is the largest park in the Cleveland Metropark network and features miles of scenic hiking and equestrian trails. You’ll also find two golf courses and a history museum on site. There are tons of picnic areas that are great for a post-hike meal or can be reserved for events. During the winter, this park is a popular spot for sledding.
This reservation also puts on community events for all ages. From story strolls and day camps to happy hours and group runs, there’s always something going on.
#2. North Chagrin Reservation (Willoughby Hills)
North Chagrin Reservation features hiking trails through the woods and marsh, making it especially popular with birders looking for waterfowl. The short, but rewarding, hike to Buttermilk Falls is a great way to start your visit to the park. And don’t miss the chance to step into the North Chagrin Nature Center to learn more about the area’s flora and fauna. Tons of naturalist-led hikes and animal encounters start at this site.
Squire’s Castle is another can’t-miss spot in the park. This historic home from the late 19th century is a favorite backdrop for weddings but anyone is welcome to explore the grounds or enjoy a picnic nearby. (If you want to update your Instagram feed, this is a perfect spot to snap some photos.) You can also take a hike from the Castle and be sure to check out the calendar for upcoming events. Family campouts and concerts are sometimes held at the stunning Squire’s Castle.
#3. Mill Stream Run Reservation (Berea, Middleburg Heights, North Royalton and Strongsville)
This all-season park features toboggan chutes, picnic areas, hiking trails and a ropes course. Wallace Lake is a major draw for the reservation and this 17.6-acre lake features a sandy beach and swimming areas. Locals can fish here year-round and it’s also home to the annual Cleveland Metroparks children’s fishing derby which helps kids learn the basics of casting and even offers prizes for their catches. There’s also a cafe near the lake where you can pick up snacks and ice cream.
Mill Stream Run Reservation is also big with local mountain bikers who love racing along the trails.
#4. Huntington Reservation (Bay Village)
On the banks of Lake Erie, Huntington Reservation is the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day. You can swim, kayak or simply take a beachside stroll and enjoy the refreshing breeze. This reservation also features a few miles of hiking trails and plenty of picnic areas. During the winter, locals head here to take advantage of the Porter Creek Sledding Hill.
Order some Honey Hut ice cream or a local craft brew from The Noshery and find a spot to sit and soak in the lakefront views. Outdoor concerts are held at this reservation during the summer. And BAYarts, a hub for the local arts scene, sits just outside the reservation.
#5. Lakefront Reservation (Cleveland)
Lakefront Reservation is the place to go if you’re looking for vacation vibes without leaving Cleveland. This park features a few sandy beaches complete with swimming areas (including a separate dog beach), beach volleyball courts, kayak launches and a huge fishing pier. There’s even a waterfront restaurant where you can order beach fare and drinks.
Biking and hiking trails also run through this reservation. And if you move to town you can look forward to movie nights, concerts, interpretative boat tours and more at this reservation.
There’s so much to explore in the Cleveland suburbs, so where do you start? Let us help. Reach out today to schedule your FREE Suburbs Strategy session and we’ll create a town tour itinerary to kick off your suburbs search.