The Little-Known Natural Wonder Near Cleveland That Becomes Even More Enchanting In The Wintertime

If you don’t like the weather in Cleveland, just wait five minutes. This mantra is often repeated by lifelong Clevelanders, and it’s certainly true. As I’m writing this article, heavy snowfall is coming down in Cleveland. A few hours ago, there wasn’t any snow on the ground. Winter here is unpredictable, sure, but it’s also a time of great excitement, particularly if you enjoy hiking. The presence of snow just does something remarkable to the local landscape, and with a few layers of clothing and a good pair of hiking boots, it can easily become a recipe for adventure. One of the very best winter hiking spot near Cleveland is just a short drive away in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. It’s the only national park in Ohio, and it’s 288 miles from the next nearest national park, so it’s a real treat to have in our own backyard. Today, we’re going to take a virtual visit to its iconic Ledges Overlook, so you can stay warm and cozy as you admire its wintertime beauty. However, it’s so stunning that you just might have to plan a trip to see it in-person!

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This stunning spot in Ohio's only national park is part of Ritchie Ledges, which are a remnant of Ohio's Devonian age. At the time, our state was underwater, and these gorgeous sandstone ledges were once the ocean floor during this segment of the Carboniferous era.

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While leaves don't necessarily reflect the colors of the sky, the crystalline top of a snow-encrusted landscape is perfectly poised to capture and reflect the hues of the setting sun. In the winter, hikers may be treated to a rose gold landscape bathed in pure beauty.

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For generations, hikers and adventurers have sought out solace in this pretty spot. Eventually, Hayward Kendall, a wealthy industrialist from Cleveland, purchased the property to preserve its beauty. When he passed, the property was left to the Akron Metropolitan Park District with a request to name the new park in his mother's memory. Nowadays, the Ritchie Ledges are part of Virginia Kendall Park, one of the loveliest gems in the local national park district.

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When the national park was established, stretches of local property were gobbled up and assimilated into the national park. This led to many local myths and legends, but that same history doesn't apply to this pretty park. Here, members of the the Civilian Conservation Corps in the Great Depression made a living wage by working to establish trails, build shelters, and create staircases among the sandstone conglomerate. Much of their handiwork is still visible, and carvings from earlier visitors are hiding in the Sharon Conglomerate stone.

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It's incredible to think that these stone ledges have been subject to the forces of nature for millions of years. Each frost and thaw causes more subtle weathering, but the presence of dramatic ice stalactites in the winter makes it easy to envision the impact that our weather cycles have on this landscape.

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The overlook is a stop on the Ledges Trail, a 1.8-mile that circles the plateau. You'll stand atop the 100-foot tall ledges, which provides an excellent view of the local landscape. On clear days, you can see for miles, and the lazily lifting fog from the Cuyahoga Valley below makes the undulating landscape look almost mountainous.

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Wear comfortable shoes, as you're going to trek up an elevation change of roughly 80 feet. The hike back down is easier, but overall, the hike is decently challenging. Set aside at least an hour to traverse the loop trail and trailhead.

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This is arguably one of the most romantic places in Ohio, especially in the winter when you'll want to cuddle up. If you do plan a sunset hike, consider a keychain flashlight for your safety. There's nothing scarier than hiking in the dark, and if you're a regular hiker, keeping a flashlight on you at all times will doubtlessly come in handy in the future.

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It's humbling to see just how far the national park stretches. Overall, Cuyahoga Valley National Park covers 32,572 acres, or the equivalent of nearly 51 square miles. This is much bigger than the smallest national park (Gateway Arch National Park, 193 acres) and much smaller than the largest national park (Wrangell–St. Elias National Park, 13.2 million acres). Nonetheless, it's a little slice of wintertime paradise right here in Northeast Ohio.

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Look for the Ledges Trailhead in Peninsula, OH, 44264.

This convivial winter hiking spot near Cleveland is a real treat. Its beauty is stunning in every season, but there’s just something magical about the way the setting sun paints the snowy landscape here. You’re going to fall in love with this hike, but don’t forget to bring a buddy along for the ride! The trails can be slippery in the winter, so keep your guard up and watch your step along the way.

While you’re in the area, head over to The Farmer’s Rail in Hudson for some farm fresh food and delicious bakery. I recommend warming up with a cinnamon roll!