While winters in Cleveland are intense, they’re also made magical by the stunning Northeast Ohio landscape. One park becomes especially magical when dusted over with a fine frosting of snow, and you must visit it this winter.

North Chagrin Reservation is perhaps the most scenic destination in the entirety of the Cleveland Metroparks. Remarkably, it is also one of the oldest.
Tim Evanson/Flickr
When the Cleveland Metropark Park Board was established in 1917, they began surveying land in the Chagrin River Valley. Using the power of eminent domain, the board founded North Chagrin Reservation and expanded it to 1,200 acres by 1930.
Located at 401 Buttermilk Falls Parkway in Willoughby, this massive park spans Mayfield Village, Willoughby Hills, and Gates Mills.
Nikki/Flickr
Those familiar with the Chagrin area may know of the South Chagrin Reservation. There was once a vision to connect the northern and southern parks, but alas, it was never realized. Now two stunning and geographically unique parks grace the region.
Each winter, the park becomes a true wonderland.
sunsets_for_you/Flickr
The park's native beech-maple forest becomes an irresistible attraction to wintertime hikers. The way the snow clings to the branches is breathtaking, and the quiet serenity of this frozen landscape will make you swoon.
The gargoyles, located on the unfinished castle built in the 1890s by Feargus B. Squire, seem well-suited for the fairy tale wonderland that this park becomes.
Tim Evanson/Flickr
This shell of a building is reminiscent of German and English baronial architecture, a true surprise in the quaint Cleveland Metropark landscape. To learn more about this iconic building, consider joining in on the Still Standing Centennial Hike in December.
A variety of critters can be spotted along the reservation's trails, even in the wintery months.
Kevin Vance/Flickr
Not all birds fly south for the winter! Some, like the Snow Bunting, prefer to spend their winters here in the chilly confines of Northeast Ohio. Many such species can be spotted along the trails of this dreamy park.
And, with over 2,000 acres to explore, there is so much to see.
Tim Evanson/Flickr
If you are new to wintertime hiking, this is a great park to kick off a new hobby. There is much to keep you entertained during a visit if you have an eye for beauty and an appreciation of local wildlife.
During your visit, you can hike along the Oxbow Lane Trailhead, traverse Foster's Run, or take advantage of the Physical Fitness Trail.
sunsets_for_you/Flickr
The scenery will keep you enthralled as you take a dreamy winter hike.
You can even explore the grounds of Squire's Castle. It's open the public and it is truly magical when finely frosted.
Tim Evanson/Flickr
As you can imagine, this castle has served as an unforgettable wedding destination for years. Weddings are usually hosted here in the summer months, for obvious reasons, so you should have the opportunity to explore the grounds without encountering too many people in the off-season.
Even in the iciest months, the unique geology of North Chagrin Reservation can be seen peeking out from beneath Buttermilk Falls.
sunsets_for_you/Flickr
A hike to the Buttermilk Falls Scenic Overlook should be included in every visit to the park. The falls are spectacular through all seasons, and the wintertime adds a little bit of extra sparkle.
If you're just a bit adventurous, you will adore this lovely reservation.
Cleveland Metroparks/Flickr
The Old River Farm Picnic Area is the perfect spot for sledding, providing you the opportunity to make memories that you'll cherish for years to come.
Don't let a little bit of snow keep you in this winter. The Cleveland Metroparks is full of adventure - you just have to bundle up a bit in the colder months.
sunsets_for_you/Flickr
Enjoying nature throughout the seasons is a pastime adored by many Clevelanders. If you're hoping to explore the local parks throughout the winter season, you may also want to enjoy this easy-peasy hike at the Brecksville Reservation.
Cleveland offers enough adventure to keep cabin fever from setting in this season.
Tim Evanson/Flickr

Fortunately, as the encroaching threat of freezing temperatures grows nearer, the Cleveland Metroparks offer an outlet to enjoy nature in any type of weather. What is your favorite park in the Cleveland Metroparks? Tell us about it in the comments, and share some of your dreamiest park pics!

For more wintertime adventure, check out these incredible trails throughout Ohio.

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