9000 Chippewa Rd
Brecksville, OH

From the oak-hickory forests on the ridge tops to the cottonwoods, willows and sycamores of Chippewa Creek's flat floodplain, Brecksville Reservation is a study of contrasts. The reservation is deeply cut by seven distinct gorges which have a wide variety of soil and sunlight conditions, fostering the growth of rare, unusual and endangered plants. Chippewa Creek, in the northern section of the reservation, flows through a remarkable gorge that was left behind by the glaciers that once covered this area. The reservation has an excellent and extensive system of trails, including a section of the Buckeye Trail. Squire Rich Home & Museum, managed by the Brecksville Historical Society, is located on Brecksville Road. Sleepy Hollow Golf Course and Seneca Golf Course are also a part of the reservation.

2844 River Rd
Willoughby Hills, OH

This beautiful old gatehouse from the 1890s is modeled after German and English baronial castles and is a unique feature of North Chagrin that is a popular destination for people of all ages. Squire’s Castle should be on your “must-see” list for North Chagrin Reservation. The open expanses in front of the castle are great for games and picnics, and the castle itself is a popular spot for weddings or an opportunity to explore the past.

Sagamore Creek Loop Trail

Valley View, Ohio, United States

This reservation features a deep gorge -- declared a National Natural Landmark -- carved out by Tinker’s Creek, with picturesque vistas and waterfalls. Mature trees and abundant wildflowers are found within its deep forests. It offers trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding, as well as picnic areas and Shawnee Hills Golf Course. At over 2,200 acres, Bedford Reservation gives the appearance of a continuous forest of large trees as it was not logged due to its rugged terrain. Tinker’s Creek, the largest tributary of the Cuyahoga River. A scenic overlook along Gorge Parkway offers a spectacular vista, particularly in the fall.

Medina County, OH

Hinckley Reservation, which is a part of the Cleveland Metroparks, is one of the few places in northeast Ohio with exposed sandstone ledges of Sharon Conglomerate. The geology not only provides unique recreational rock climbing opportunities (by permit only) but also unique habitats.

Lake to Lake Trail

Middleburg Heights, Ohio, United States

Cleveland Metroparks’ Lake to Lake Trail links Lake Isaac and Lake Abram in Middleburg Heights via an asphalt- and boardwalk-surfaced path. The two lakes are the largest remaining glacial wetlands in Cuyahoga County and both are critical habitats for local wildlife.

8176 Brandywine Rd
Northfield, OH

Clevelanders are pretty lucky. We already have a brag-worthy metroparks system that weaves throughout the region, but nestled between Cleveland and Akron sits a massive stretch of additional public greenspace that many cities would kill for. This long, green swath of wonderful is called the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, and it's just a quick drive from civilization. The park covers 33,000 acres of woods, water and wildlife, and is free to the public.

405 Truxell Rd
Peninsula, OH

Clevelanders are pretty lucky. We already have a brag-worthy Metroparks system that weaves throughout the region, but nestled between Cleveland and Akron sits a massive stretch of additional public greenspace that many cities would kill for. This long, green swath of wonderful is called the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, and it's just a quick drive from civilization. The park covers 33,000 acres of woods, water and wildlife, and is free to the public.

6837 Brecksville Rd
Independence, OH

Hemlock Creek Picnic Area is located off Button Road in Bedford Reservation, just east of Dunham Road in Walton Hills. This area includes a picnic shelter, hiking and bridle trails, a swing set and offers stunning views of both Hemlock Creek and Tinker's Creek.

4872 Klasen Rd
Madison, OH

This park, which is part of Lake Metroparks, offers excellent access to the Grand River below a spectacularly exposed Chagrin Shale cliff. Don't miss the views of the scenic river from a flat riverside trail.

Gorge Metropolitan Park Dam

Akron, Ohio, United States

Gorge Metropolitan Park in nearby Akron is a 155-acre county park with trails, fishing & ice-skating, and features some amazing winter views.