The 51-mile Chagrin River begins its course in the city of Chardon in Geauga County, flowing for about 20 miles southwest to Chagrin Falls, before changing course northward to Lake Erie. The river branches out into two main tributaries, the East Branch, which flows north and west through Lake County, and the Aurora Branch, which flows through Aurora and sections of Cuyahoga and Geauga counties before intersecting with the primary branch west of Chagrin Falls.
History of the Chagrin River
The precise origin of the name “Chagrin” is the subject of much debate. Some claim it was named “Shaguin” after French trader and Cuyahoga County’s first recorded resident, Sieur de Saguin. Others say the word “chagrin” is derived from the Erie Native American term “shagarin,” meaning “clear water.”
Remnants of the river’s glacial past can be found throughout the watershed. Over more than a thousand decades, the Chagrin River made its way from upland headwater areas, creating deep ravines as it progressed further downstream along the Allegheny Plateau and into the lake plain. Many sections along the river and its numerous tributaries show signs of where thick layers of glacial clay have eroded, exposing underlying sandstone and shale bedrock.
Despite a great deal of agricultural development and urbanization throughout the watershed, the river has maintained excellent water quality levels and a lush forest cover. Over 70 miles of the Chagrin River along with sections of the East Branch and Aurora Branch were designated as a State Scenic River in 1979. The river valley is home to a diverse variety of terrestrial and aquatic plant species. According to recent surveys, around 90 species of bird and 50 species of fish thrive within the Chagrin River watershed.
The crown jewel of Chagrin Falls
Three waterfalls originating from the river are located in Chagrin Falls. With a height of 20 feet, the largest waterfall is the village’s crown jewel and namesake. Right beside it is an expansive viewing platform where locals and visitors can take in the stunning vistas. The waterfall is located in the heart of the village, just off Main Street Bridge. Seeing the falls while dropping by the nearby boutiques and restaurants is always an enjoyable experience!
The Chagrin River is one of the few Lake Erie tributaries that get annual stockings of steelhead produced by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, providing anglers with incredible steelhead fishing opportunities, especially from October to April. Steelhead can be found throughout the entire length of the river starting from the dam in Gate Mills heading north towards the lake. Although there are some stretches of private water, many public fishing spots are available throughout Lake Metroparks.
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