Posted in Cleveland November 17, 2020 by

Rent Snowshoes In The Cleveland Metroparks For Epic Wintertime Hiking

As things begin to cool down around Greater Cleveland, it’s rather easy to stay indoors under a pile of blankets with a good book. While this is always a rewarding experience, it’s even more so after you spend the day getting an easy workout and trying something new. Here in Northeast Ohio, one of the best wintertime activities is using snowshoes in the Cleveland Metroparks. Bundle up, because this wintertime activity is almost too cool to handle.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Once you start catching snowflakes on your gloves, it's easy to want to stay indoors. However, there's no reason to submit to cabin fever when the Cleveland Metroparks are right around the corner!
Jeff Barton/Flickr
The Cleveland Metroparks are a local gem aptly nicknamed The Emerald Necklace. This gorgeous collective of local parks makes up more than 23,700 acres of gorgeous landscape waiting to be explored.
For many, taking a snowshoe hike in the Cleveland Metroparks is a beloved winter pastime.
Cleveland Metroparks/Facebook
Snowshoes are believed to have been invented circa 5,000 years ago, likely in Asia. However, indigenous American peoples in many areas also utilized this nifty invention.
Snowshoes have revolutionized winter hiking in their modern use, and they're particularly enjoyable in the Cleveland Metroparks.
Cleveland Metroparks/Facebook
Snowshoes, if you have never tried them, help users walk on snow with less effort. They prevent your foot from sinking into the snow, keeping your socks and boots warm and dry.
Snowshoeing is permitted in several local parks as long as there is a four-inch base of snow, and you can even rent a pair at select locations.
Dustin Krochmalny/Google Images
Snowshoe rentals are available at Hinckley Lake Boathouse, Big Met Golf Course, and North Chagrin Nature Center. Snowshoes are $8 or $10 per the first hour (and $3 for every following hour), depending on if you go hiking on a weekday or a weekend.
As you explore, remember that it is proper etiquette to yield to horses on bridle trails and to avoid groomed cross-country courses.
Lynn Zado/Google Images
This is no issue, of course. There's so much to see and do in the parks that you'll effortlessly find a neat place to explore near you.
The North Chagrin Nature Center is one of the coolest spots to pick up your snowshoes, as it is surrounded by all sorts of wonder.
Garvin Seto/Google Images
Sunset Pond and Sanctuary Marsh are each just a stone's throw from the educational center. Plus, there are all sorts of neat events that take place at the nature center.
However, you're sure to have a great time wherever you decide to go snowshoeing.
Cleveland Metroparks/Facebook
This experience will likely transform winter hiking in Cleveland for you.
Prepare to fall in love with your new favorite wintertime activity.
Cleveland Metroparks/Facebook
Connect with the Cleveland Metroparks on Facebook to stay up to date on events and other news.

There is so much to love about hiking with snowshoes in the Cleveland Metroparks. You get to enjoy all that wintertime has to offer without sinking into the snow! What are your thoughts on snowshoeing? Tell us in the comments!

Can’t wait to explore the landscape? Add a few winter hikes to your local bucket list!

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