SOCIAL
HIKING TRAILS
IN CUYAHOGA COUNTY TO EXPLORE THIS SPRING
WRITTEN BY
Five hiking trails in Cuyahoga County that are perfect for exploring this spring.
Abigail Preiszig PHOTOS BY
Abigail Preiszig
After almost a year of staying home, many are feeling bored in their surroundings. Luckily, spring is inviting us all back outside! This year, explore someplace new without going too far. Here are five hiking trails in Cuyahoga County you should visit this spring:
BEREA PHOTO CREDIT CLEVELAND METROPARKS
BEDFORD Bedford Reservation Tinker's Creek Gorge Overlook - Bedford Bedford Reservation spans 2,200 acres, offering over 34 miles of biking, hiking and bridle trails. The paved pathways throughout the park are perfect for a relaxing stroll, or — if you are feeling adventurous — the woods have approximately five dirt hiking paths. My favorite place to start or end any hike is at Tinker’s Creek Gorge Overlook, a natural landmark with an expansive view of the budding forest and Tinker’s Creek Gorge. Tinker’s Creek Gorge was declared a national natural landmark by the Secretary of the Interior in 1967. This declaration is due to the gorge’s “illustrative character, rarity, diversity, and value to science and education.” The overlook has parking right next to it and is wheelchair-accessible.
31 | VINDICATOR
Big Creek Reservation Lake to Lake Trail - Berea/ Middleburg Heights The Lake to Lake Trail is a 2.4-mile paved towpath connecting Lake Abram to Lake Isaac, joining the two largest glacial wetlands in Cuyahoga County. Despite being so close to a busy road and hospital, this is a very relaxing walk. The best part about this trail is the boardwalk going across Lake Abram Marsh — the wetlands look neverendingly beautiful. On the boardwalk, free binoculars are available to provide a closer look across the wetlands; try to spot birds such as the American Woodcock, wild turkey and plenty of waterfowl. At the top of the boardwalk is the coolest playground and dig site, containing a fake Mastodon skeleton, swing sets and slides. When you reach Lake Isaac, there is a short trail loop along the lake. This tree-covered trail is beautiful during any season. In the spring, you will be surrounded by a chorus of spring peepers; and during the summer, the blare of bullfrogs is unmistakable.
