We know Cleveland has amazing parks but sometimes it’s nice to get a little validation. So when the nonprofit Trust for Public Land released this year’s ParkScore index, we weren’t surprised to see Cleveland move up five spots to 24 on the list. The index ranks park systems in the country’s 100 most populous cities on amenities, access and investment. “In Cleveland, 83% of residents have access to a park within a 10-minute walk and spending per person is $137 versus a national average of $96,” says Ohio Parks for People program director Sean Terry. Here are some of our favorite regional parks to see for yourself.
Cleveland Metroparks: With 18 reservations, which span more than 24,000 acres throughout the area, each one has its own distinct vibe and terrain — think peaceful woods and bustling beaches. While the enormous list of activities ranges from archery or rock climbing to fishing or golfing, access to Lake Erie’s waters and beaches is truly the crown jewel of this park system. Try This: Rent a kayak from 41 North Coastal Kayak Adventures in Rocky River Reservation and paddle north along the Rocky River into Lake Erie. clevelandmetroparks.com
Cuyahoga Valley National Park: The only national park in the state offers towering waterfalls such as Brandywine Falls, historic hikes such as the Buckeye Trail, rock ledges and formations, and even the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railway. The park encompasses nearly 33,000 acres of hills, lakes, marshes and fields that loosely follow the Cuyahoga River and is dotted with historical buildings exploring the area’s past as home to the 101-mile Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail. Try This: Strap on snowshoes (rentable from the Boston Mill Visitor Center) and explore the trails for a change of scenery in the winter. nps.gov/cuva
Geauga Park District: The 27 parks in this region offer everything from wetlands to prairies and woodlands packed with great bird-watching (including a great blue heron nesting colony) to miles of trails (from paved accessible ones to more rugged hikes). The true star though is Observatory Park, one of only 39 dark sky parks in the country. With minimal light pollution, stargazers can catch views of astronomical events and constellations you can’t see in the city. Try This: Traverse eight challenges 32 feet in the air on the ropes course at Claridon Woodlands. The course finishes with a 100-foot-long zip line to the ground. geaugaparkdistrict.org
Lake County Metroparks: While plenty of the 38 parks in this system have lake and river access (including two state-designated “wild and scenic” rivers) that make them a haven for paddlers and anglers, the family-friendly features are what really stand out. Farmpark is a working farm where kids can pet animals while learning about agriculture, and the new Adventure Play at Jordan Creek Park is a natural playground through a wooded area complete with a zipline and climbing wall. Try This: Camp at one of two reservable campsites at Lake Erie Bluffs park. The sites are perched on a hill overlooking Lake Erie for a secluded overnight adventure. lakemetroparks.com
Lorain County Metro Parks: With wetlands, birder havens and a popular 6.5-mile bike-and-hike trail that traces the Black River, the 28 reservations (and golf courses and splash park) in this park system offer all the outdoor activities you need. But Lorain County Metro Parks sprinkles in some arts with your nature including live drama at the French Creek Theatre, outdoor sunset concerts on the lake shore and even an art gallery. Try This: Wander 77 acres of topiaries and rhododendron and rose-packed botanical gardens at Schoepfle Garden. loraincountymetroparks.com
Medina County Park District: An angler’s paradise with 15 ponds and lakes stocked with bluegill, bass, walleye, trout and more, this district encompasses 18 parks and nature preserves. Chippewa Lake is one of the largest natural inland lakes in the state, and offers swimming and boating, too. Nearly 50 trails wind around ledges, wetlands and wildlife sanctuaries for those who prefer to stay on land. Try This: Birders will love watching waterfowl and wetland critters without scaring them off at the Killbuck Lake wildlife blind, which conceals humans from the wildlife. medinacountyparks.com
Portage Park District: Wildflowers, lakes, wetlands and woods are just a few of the things you’ll see at this district’s 10 parks, boat launches and bike trails. Opportunities for hiking, fishing and picnicking abound, but the 14 miles of bike trails (including the popular 8.5-mile Headwaters Trail) that connect with the surrounding communities are possibly the best way to see the district’s 2,400 acres of nature. Try This: Take a short hike from the Towner’s Woods Park entrance to see a Hopewell burial mound offering a glimpse of Ohio’s past. portagecounty-oh.gov/portage-park-district
Summit County Metro Parks: Celebrating its centennial this year, the Summit County Metro Parks include 16 parks spread over 14,000 acres with a well-stocked reservoir for fishing and camping, three archery ranges and plenty of all-purpose trails for walking and biking. Don’t miss the fascinating rock formations along the trails at Gorge Metropark, including the rocky overhang at Old Maid’s Cave. Try This: Each September, hikers hit the trails for the Fall Hiking Spree to win a hiking staff by completing a designated list of trails ranging from easy to challenging. summitmetroparks.org
