In February, winter is still nipping at our toes especially if you live in Greater Cleveland. While the region’s cold temperatures – ranging from22°F to 34°F on its coldest day – can make it tempting to stay cooped up at home, you might miss out on the icy beauty that the surrounding landscapes have to offer.
For instance: waterfalls. Greater Cleveland is home to several waterfalls that transform into gorgeous ice sculptures this time of the year. I’ve listed some of my favorites below:
- CHAGRIN FALLS
Downtown Chagrin FallsStanding at a height of 20 feet, Chagrin Falls used to power local mills in the 1800s. Today, it’s not only a natural sight to behold but a remnant of the community’s industrial past.
Unlike most waterfalls, which often involve some hiking to reach, Chagrin Falls is accessible– it’s located right at the heart of the village. Various viewing platforms offer stunning panoramas from different angles. After you’ve had your fill of the waterfall, check out the restaurants and cafes along Main Street or go hiking and biking along Chagrin River.
- BRANDYWINE AND BLUE HEN FALLS
Cuyahoga Valley National ParkCuyahoga Valley National Park’s trails are accessible throughout the year, welcoming hikers and snowshoe enthusiasts to experience the park’s winter beauty firsthand. Its most striking attractions, the Brandywine and Blue Hen Falls, offer breathtaking views and a unique outdoor experience.
Towering at a height of 65 feet, the cascading waters of Brandywine Falls turns into a grand ice sculpture in the depths of winter, refracting sunlight into a myriad of colors. A wooden boardwalk leading to a nearby overlook can also give you the opportunity to marvel at the icicles up close.
Blue Hen Falls, although smaller at 15 feet, is just as beautiful. Located in a quieter corner of the park and surrounded by snow-laden trees, it is perfect for those who want to fully embrace the quiet tranquility of winter. While you’re visiting Cuyahoga Valley National Park, consider going on a wildlife-spotting escapade; the park remains full of active wildlife even in the winter.
- GREAT FALLS OF TINKER’S CREEK
Viaduct Park, Bedford ReservationThe Great Falls of Tinker’s Creek, tucked away in Viaduct Park within Bedford Reservation, truly lives up to its name. Encased in ice, the falls are ethereal and awe-inspiring. What it lacks in height, it makes up for with its unique terrain: a gentle slope of sandstone, where years of weathering and erosion from the creek created mesmerizing patterns along the walls of the gorge.
Viaduct Park is home to not only natural wonders, but also echoes of the past. You can visit remnants of mills that once thrived here, as well as the iconic stone viaduct where trains used to pass through. Educational signs scattered throughout the park provide fascinating insights into its storied past, making your visit both an outdoor adventure and a journey through history.
Learn more about life in Greater Cleveland with me, Michelle McQuade. As one of the top producers in Northeast Ohio, I have the tools you need for a fruitful exploration of Cleveland, Ohio homes for sale. Get in touch with me today by calling 440.823.2448 or by sending an email here.