The fascinating thing about our local parks is that many of them are rich in history. From the vibrant foliage of former quarries to the sleepy remnants of the old canalways, our landscape hides secrets amidst the din of various habitats. Such wonders expand well outside of Cleveland’s city limits, and these neighboring places are awaiting exploration. Bundle up, grab some hiking boots, and let’s hit the road!
Roughly 40 minutes outside of Cleveland’s city limits is a gorgeous park that’s breathtaking in all seasons.
Geauga Park District/Facebook
The Rookery, which is hidden in Munson Township in Geauga County, spans over 550 acres, yet few people know of its wonders.
ElaineAndGreg/TripAdvisor The Geauga County Park District encompasses a landscape that is too close to home to ignore. The lovely features of these parks contrast beautifully with the Cleveland Metroparks, hiding unique histories and habitats.
The park is shaped by the presence of the Chagrin River, and the remnants of the old Interurban Railroad Junction still remain.
Geauga Park District/Facebook
The Interurban Trail and Woodcock Trail only total about 1.4 miles, making the park the perfect size for families to traverse.
ElaineAndGreg/TripAdvisor Children will love the beauty of this park and the history they discover along the way. The Interurban Trail is gravel, but the Woodcock Trail is more stroller-friendly with paved asphalt.
The straight-shot Interurban Trail makes for an otherworldly hiking experience, regardless of the season.
Geauga Park District/Facebook
As you hike along this old glacial lakebed, you will find a multitude of surprises.
Geauga Park District/Facebook
From a covered walking bridge to wetlands and marshes, there are creations shaped by both man and nature that are worthy of admiration.
Geauga Park District/Facebook
And you’ll also find all sorts of native critters if you keep your eyes peeled.
Geauga Park District/Facebook The site has served as a Great Blue Heron treetop colony for more than six decades, and the heron rookery can still be accessed on naturalist-led hikes.
The park is open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., and its landscape is a treat to see in every season.
Geauga Park District/Facebook
Whether the flowers are blooming or the fall foliage is fading, the landscape is a colorful mishmash of different hues.
Geauga Park District/Facebook
Even wintertime at The Rookery is magical!
Geauga Park District/Facebook For information about seasonal events, click here.
With 562 acres to explore and a landscape that’s straight out of a fairy tale, it is amazing that so many Cleveland natives have yet to visit this park.
Geauga Park District/Facebook
It really is no wonder visitors prefer to keep this perfect little landscape to themselves… it truly is a hidden gem.
Geauga Park District/Facebook For more information, visit the Geauga Park District website here.
The remnants of the old Interurban Railroad Junction are a fascinating piece of local history. Have you ever visited this park? Which season would you say is best for a visit?
Geauga Park District/Facebook
ElaineAndGreg/TripAdvisor
The Geauga County Park District encompasses a landscape that is too close to home to ignore. The lovely features of these parks contrast beautifully with the Cleveland Metroparks, hiding unique histories and habitats.
Children will love the beauty of this park and the history they discover along the way. The Interurban Trail is gravel, but the Woodcock Trail is more stroller-friendly with paved asphalt.
The site has served as a Great Blue Heron treetop colony for more than six decades, and the heron rookery can still be accessed on naturalist-led hikes.
For information about seasonal events, click here.
For more information, visit the Geauga Park District website here.
If these petite trails aren’t enough to keep you entertained, perhaps you should traverse this one trail that stretches from Cleveland to Columbus.
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