Posted in Cleveland
June 04, 2019
These 10 Gorgeous Waterfront Trails In Cleveland Are Perfect For A Summer Day
Here in Northeast Ohio, summers are always full of fun in the sun. After a long winter, locals find it important to indulge in outdoor activities as frequently as we can. Fortunately, the Cleveland Metroparks provides endless opportunity for adventure, especially if you’re longing for a day on the waterfront. Lace up your hiking boots and pack some bug spray, because you won’t be able to resist these summertime hikes.
During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.
The lakefront trail of Edgewater Park spans the dreamiest, westernmost portion of Lakefront Reservation. The 9,000 feet of shoreline offers swimming opportunities during the day and views of the city lights in the evening, and the nearby fishing pier will delight anglers everywhere.
Address: Whiskey Island Drive, Cleveland, OH, 44102
Address: Whiskey Island Drive, Cleveland, OH, 44102
You've just arrived at the most beautiful glacial pothole anywhere in Ohio! Lake Isaac is the crown jewel of Big Creek Reservation, and it is surrounded by an ecosystem that consists of a unique variety of animals. The on-site Waterfowl Sanctuary is adored by all who visit, and visitors are enamored by all of the critters that dwell in the nearby forest. Lake Isaac Loop offers the most scenic way to take it all in, and it's an easygoing 1.2 miles long.
Address: Big Creek Parkway, Middleburg Heights, OH, 44130
Address: Big Creek Parkway, Middleburg Heights, OH, 44130
The Cleveland Centennial Trail offers a unique hike right through the city. While the trail is being completed in sections, the initial phases are already completed and ready for footfall. You'll find yourself treated you stunning views the Cuyahoga River, and once completed, the Cleveland Centennial Trail will actually stretch all the way up to Wendy Park on Lake Erie's shore.
Address: Columbus Road, Cleveland, OH, 44113
Address: Columbus Road, Cleveland, OH, 44113
Rocky River Reservation abounds with history. This lovely park contains the first parcel of land purchase by the Cleveland Metroparks and it's named for the mighty river that carves through its expanse. History comes to life over at the Rocky River Nature Center, which is an educational facility that introduces visitors to local animals, both past and present.
Address: 24000 Valley Parkway, North Olmsted, OH, 44070
Address: 24000 Valley Parkway, North Olmsted, OH, 44070
There's so much to love about this short and sweet 0.5-mile hike. You'll pass by the landmark Church Rock, which is an unusual work of art worth stopping to see, and you'll travel alongside the magnificent Chagrin River.
Address: Hawthorn Parkway, Bentleyville, OH, 44022
Address: Hawthorn Parkway, Bentleyville, OH, 44022
Acacia Reservation is a fairly petite park, but it is an incredible 155-acre urban oasis. Its bright green expanse is carved by the presence of a paved trail, and the magnificence of this former country club is evident everywhere you look. The site was only acquired about six years ago, but it is well on its way to reverting back into a natural, forested state.
Address: Cedar Road, Lyndhurst, OH, 44124
Address: Cedar Road, Lyndhurst, OH, 44124
If you've never visited Euclid Beach, you just may find its landscaping enchanting. While owned by the City of Cleveland, this park (and the surrounding area, which includes Villa Angela and Wildwood Park) is managed and enhanced under the stewardship of the Cleveland Metroparks. Euclid Beach, home to the former Euclid Beach Amusement Park, now features a stunning 315-foot-long pier that is absolutely breathtaking at sunset.
Address: 16301 Lakeshore Boulevard, Cleveland, OH, 44110
Address: 16301 Lakeshore Boulevard, Cleveland, OH, 44110
Not to be confused with California's iconic Huntington Beach, Cleveland's site of the same name is located in the lovely Huntington Reservation. This enchanting Lake Erie park is the perfect place to watch clouds form over the water, and it's also a breathtaking place to go for a hike. Stroll on Huntington Beach and dip your toes in the water, or head south of Lake Road and hike along Porter Creek Trail.
Address: 28648 Lake Road, Bay Village, OH, 44140
Address: 28648 Lake Road, Bay Village, OH, 44140
At the heart of Hinckley Reservation is a water feature that's downright breathtaking. Hinckley Lake, a pool of blue stretching across 90 acres, is an outdoorsman's dream. Not only does it feature incredible fishing, it also offers boating opportunities and is encircled by a lovely loop trail.
Address: Metropolitan Park West, Hinckley, OH, 44233
Address: Metropolitan Park West, Hinckley, OH, 44233
There's something appropriately romantic about the name of Bridal Veil Falls. This waterfall is stunning in every season, but it makes for a particularly dreamy walk along Deerlick Creek when birdsong is abundant. This beautiful hike features a Scenic Overlook that is a particularly popular spot for photo-taking.
Address: Bridle Trail, Walton Hills, OH, 44146
Address: Bridle Trail, Walton Hills, OH, 44146
These lovely waterfront trails are the perfect way to spend a summer day. Which hike are you most excited to take?
If you enjoyed these hikes, you’ll surely love to spend the day enjoying wine and waterfalls.
