Posted in Cleveland Nature January 06, 2017 by

This Little Known State Park Near Cleveland Is The Perfect Place To Get Away From It All

Living in a city like Cleveland definitely has its perks. There’s always something stirring, the food is fantastic, and there’s never any shortage of activities to enjoy.

That being said, you’d be hard pressed to find a Clevelander that didn’t want to just get away from it all every now and then. That’s where the picturesque Headlands Beach State Park comes in to save the day. Now before you wonder why on Earth we’ve classified Headlands as “little known,” consider the fact that next to no one ventures out there during the winter. A beloved beach getaway in the summer, Headlands State Park is arguably just as gorgeous during the winter months. So if you can brave the cold, this getaway will certainly rejuvenate your spirits. Be sure to bundle up!

Located in Mentor, the scenic Headlands can be reached by means of a quick drive from Cleveland. Without much traffic, the trip can be made in less than an hour.
Google Maps
The beach at Headlands Park is incredibly popular during the summer months due to its mile-long strip of coast and inviting blue waters.
Erik Drost/flickr
Even during the winter, despite the characteristically frigid temperatures of Lake Erie, the park remains a pristine vision of sand and shore.
LASZLO ILYES/flickr
Photographed above is the Fairport Harbor West Breakwater Light. Built in 1925, this structure is one of the most photographed scenes from the park.
A glimpse out towards the horizon will immediately transport you into a world of calm and peace.
cnft/TripAdvisor
If you’re looking to clear your mind, there are two trails which run through the park’s adjacent nature preserve.
Buckeyetrail.org
Buckeye Trail is an easy 1.5 miles and the Fishing Trail is a moderate .4 miles. Photographed above is a segment of the Buckeye Trail near Bridal Veils.
Under the right conditions, it’s even possible to sled or cross-country ski around the park.
Scott Smithson/flickr
It's hard to imagine a more beautiful setting for these winter activities.
So whether your view is a colorful sunset...
Erik Drost/flickr
...or something a bit icier
LASZLO ILYES/flickr
Headlands Beach will be an absolute breath of fresh air.
John Potter/flickr
And before you know it, spring will be just around the corner!
Joel Hageman/flickr
Erik Drost/flickr

Headlands State Park is located at 9601 Headlands Road, Mentor OH 44060. Have you visited Headlands Beach State Park during the off season? What are some of your favorite memories form this area? Be sure to share your experiences with us!

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