Lester Rail Trail, Just South Of Cleveland, Is Downright Picture Perfect

There's something about trains that can bring out an adult's inner child. These masterful feats of human ingenuity aren't as common as they once were, but their presence is still powerful enough to excite us (unless their passing is holding up traffic, that is). Former rail corridors dot the landscape of Northeast Ohio, and most are but a distant memory. However, there's one rail trail near Cleveland in a former rail corridor that's open to the public and it's downright charming. Ready to embrace the great outdoors in a totally unique way? Climb aboard and hold on tight, because this park offers one epic ride.

You've just stumbled upon Lester Rail Trail, a former rail corridor that's open to the public.

With 164 acres to explore and a 3.2-mile trail that's perfect for biking or hiking, this pretty park is almost irresistibly welcoming.

Despite its acreage, this park manages to feel pretty intimate. It's less trafficked than the Cleveland Metroparks, so you may have the park largely to yourself during your visit.

The landscape is enchanting, hiding remnants of prairie grasses and surprisingly rare wetland species like the cardinal flower.

Oh, yeah, and there's one more thing you should know about ... there are miniature trains that you can ride here!

This isn't your average train ride! You'll feel like a giant as you settle atop rather than in these cool train cars. They'll take you on a leisurely trek through the scenic Medina County countryside.

This park was actually developed with the intention of embracing a railroad theme, and that's accomplished through a partnership between Northeast Ohio Live Steamers (NEOLS) and Medina County Park District.

Rides are offered once a month throughout the warm weather season, and the schedule is published online for your convenience. The Halloween rides in particular are a hit with kids!

Typically, that means you can catch the train each June through October. Dates of operation vary each year, but this train ride is so fun that it might just become an annual tradition for your family.

The rides are totally free of charge and you'll spot all sorts of familiar cars ... just in miniature form!

Each ride runs roughly ten minutes, and it will take you along a scenic path that will take your breath away.

While the ride is free, donations are accepted. If you enjoy your visit, consider making a donation to help keep it going for years to come.

When the ride is done, you can head into the park to hike ... or hop back in line to go again!

Either way, you will want to budget time to explore the park ... it is beautiful and full of nature.

The park stretches from Lester Road to Abbeyville Road, so there's quite a bit to explore. The landscape encompasses grassy meadows, wetlands, and forests, and you might even spot a few miniature train-crossing intersections.

History and nature meet in this scenic countryside park and you'll encounter all sorts of wildlife during your hike.

There's so much to love about Lester Rail Trail in Medina County.

Find it at 3654 Lester Rd, Medina, OH 44256.

This rail trail near Cleveland is oh, so charming. Who will you be visiting with? Tag them in the comments and start planning your trip now, because this lovely spot is calling your name.

Want to extend your trip to the Medina area? Visit Majestic Meadows, a quaint alpaca farm with all sorts of adorable and friendly critters.