The Ultimate Weekend Itinerary If You Love Spending Time Outdoors In Cleveland
×
Nikki Rhoades
Author
When it comes to outdoor adventures and activities in Cleveland, there’s no shortage of unique things to do. After all, this town is nicknamed Forest City! With verdant forests, shimmering streams, rolling hills, rocky shores, and more, adventuring through this area is downright magnificent. We’re about to take a weekend road trip from Cleveland to get to know the area’s most magnificent natural wonders, so pack some bug spray and trail mix and prepare for two full days of outdoor adventure in The Land.
From national parks and campgrounds to waterfalls, canyons, and more, there is so much to love about America’s natural splendor — and June, designated as Great Outdoors Month, is the perfect time to get outside.
Table of Contents
With just about an hour and a half of drive time, this road trip from Cleveland will take you from the best location in the nation down to Ohio's only national park. The itinerary can be rearranged as needed to fit your schedule, and it's easy to break out into two full days of adventure.
Soak up Some Sun at Huntington Beach
Part of the Cleveland Metroparks, Huntington Beach is a favorite of locals. This West Side natural landmark is located right on the shore of Lake Erie, and it's the perfect spot to take in stunning views of the Cleveland skyline. With natural greenery framing a sandy coastline, it's a green and blue oasis right on Ohio's northern shore.
Advertisement
Huntington Beach, 28492-28648 Lake Rd, Bay Village, OH 44140, USA
Parking is right beside the beach, and ADA beach wheelchairs are offered to ensure all guests can enjoy the sandy shore. Take a stroll along Lake Erie's coast, stretch out and relax, or snack on a picnic brunch to fuel up before your big adventure. Remember to bring a buddy if you decide to swim, as this beach is not monitored by a lifeguard.
Advertisement
Get Your Steps in at Rocky River Reservation
What started as a 3.8-acre parcel of land in 1919 has since expanded to a massive 2,572-acre slice of paradise. There's so much to see and do here, including a staircase hike that provides excellent views of the river. It was here that some of the biggest fossils in Cleveland were found, remnants of a Devonian era ocean that once covered the state. If you look closely, you'll also spot a more modern (but still ancient) fixture on the landscape: earthworks from ancient humans.
Rocky River Reservation, Valley Pkwy, North Olmsted, OH 44070, USA
This stunning stretch of landscape is a real treat for nature lovers. Here, unique species like the yellow-crowned night-heron have been spotted, so you might encounter something magical and unexpected as you explore the landscape. Spring and autumn turn this park into an important migratory stop for non-native species, but the summer months may expose you to some of Cleveland's more regular residents.
If you're hoping to learn more about the park's indigenous species during your visit, a stop by the Rocky River Nature Center may be just what you need. Here, you'll learn about the ancient fish that once prowled this area's ocean, the original residents that built the park's famous earthworks, and all sorts of common species that live in the park today.
If you're hoping to learn more about the park's indigenous species during your visit, a stop by the Rocky River Nature Center may be just what you need. Here, you'll learn about the ancient fish that once prowled this area's ocean, the original residents that built the park's famous earthworks, and all sorts of common species that live in the park today.
Fuel Up at the Creekside Restaurant & Bar
Creekside Restaurant & Bar has something for everyone thanks to a menu of palatable and familiar contemporary American favorites. Dig into pizza, burgers, surf and turf, and more! Oh, and if you're wondering about the name... this restaurant stretches along Chippewa Creek, and it has been serving up a feast for the eyes with every meal for over three decades.
Creekside Restaurant & Bar, 8803 Brecksville Rd, Brecksville, OH 44141, USA
We highly recommend a visit to the patio here. While you can see Chippewa Creek from the wide windows inside, the year-round patio (which is heated in the winter) offers views that are downright gaga-worthy.
Take in the Views at Brandywine Falls
Brandywine Falls is easily the most spectacular waterfall in Cuyahoga Valley National Park -- and arguably Ohio. The hike to Brandywine Falls is simple: it's a mere staircase and boardwalk away from the parking lot. Short and sweet, this easy walk will take you to a viewing platform where the 65-foot tall waterfall can be admired up close. You're in for a particular treat if it has recently rained... this waterfall's crest can vary from a diminutive veiling trickle to a massive roaring cascade.
Advertisement
Brandywine Falls, Sagamore Hills Township, OH 44067, USA
The boardwalk hike at Brandywine Falls is one of the finest of its kind in Ohio. The viewing platform is incredible, and you'll feel as if you can reach out and touch the waterfall. In fact, you might get misted a bit if you're close enough! If this view isn't enough to satisfy your hunger for epic views, the 1.5-mile Brandywine Gorge Loop will take you further down into the gorge.
Get Ready to Relax at Heritage Farms
Camping at Heritage Farms in Peninsula is a treat like no other. The farm, which is known for its pumpkin patch and Christmas trees, also has several campsites to meet your unique camping needs. Choose from nine tent sites, three A-frame sites, and three Adirondack-style shelters to customize the camping experience. Rentals start at $40-$45 per spot for two people.
Heritage Farms, 6050 Riverview Rd, Peninsula, OH 44264, USA
If you're looking for something a bit more homey, you can also stay in the Garden Apartment. This comfortable suite at Heritage Farms can sleep four guests, and it's complete with a kitchen, WiFi, and a private patio space. Cozy up by the indoor fireplace or light up the outdoor barbecue for some delicious after-hiking dining. Stays here start at $201 a night, and local hikers rave about the comforts here.
Start Your Day at the Everett Road Covered Bridge
The Everett Road bridge is built for pedestrians rather than cars, so it's located a bit off the windy road. Keep your eyes peeled for it as you snake around the curves of Everett Road... it can be a bit hidden by the foliage, but it's located mere steps away from the parking lot. This is one of the best covered bridges in Greater Cleveland, and its easy access makes it perfect for hikers of all skill levels to visit.
Everett Road Covered Bridge Parking Lot, 2247 Everett Rd, Peninsula, OH 44264, USA
One of my best friends calls this "the Beetlejuice bridge" for its resemblance to the bridge in the 1988 movie. However, this truss-style bridge does share a dark commonality with that famous movie location. According to local legend, John Gilson and his wife tried (and failed) to cross Furnace Run in 1877. While Mrs. G was rescued, poor John fell victim to those icy spring waters. The bridge was purportedly built in response to this tragedy, and it has helped passerby safely cross the stream without incident ever since.
Advertisement
Relax at the Hinckley Reservation Spillway Area
This final stretch of our trip will take you back into the Cleveland Metroparks, this time in Hinckley Reservation. The family-friendly Spillway Swim Area in the park is an excellent place for some fun in the sun. Nestled against the 90-acre Hinckley Lake, this swim area also leads to easy hiking trails if you're feeling adventurous. On weekends, the on-site Buzzard's Landing concession stand offers snacks to help you and the whole crew cool down.
Hinckley Spillway, 1824 Metropolitan Park W, Hinckley, OH 44233, USA
In addition to being a unique swimming spot near Cleveland, this site is also beautiful. With incredible views of a historic dam from 1926 (which often features a man-made waterfall) and easy access to the lake, this spot is a real treat for nature lovers. If you're feeling particularly adventurous, the entirety of Hinckley Reservation hides pure majesty. Hike at the local ledges, hunt for folk art in the woods, and venture out to Ledge Lake if you're craving more time in the great outdoors.
All in all, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventures and activities in Cleveland. However, adventuring throughout and beyond the metropolitan area has the potential to open your eyes to the true majesty of Northeast Ohio. Mark your calendar for Great Outdoors Month, because there’s no better time to explore the region.
Are you a nature lover? Check out the Cleveland nature hub for more insight into the great outdoors.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.