Cleveland, Ohio homes are set amidst the natural beauty of the many parks and forests that can be found here. If you live in Greater Cleveland (or plan to), visit any of these national parks for a day of hiking, biking, or canoeing.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
1550 Boston Mills Road
Peninsula, Ohio
Home to lush forests, hills, and the mighty Cuyahoga River, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is undoubtedly one of Ohio’s finest outdoor attractions. With over 125 miles of trails, the park offers hiking and biking opportunities to visitors of all skill levels.
125 miles of trails, the park offers hiking and biking opportunities to visitors of all skill levels.
Guests can hike along the Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail, which extends for over 20 miles and is the main thoroughfare for bikers and joggers. Visitors are encouraged to make a stop at Peninsula, a small town within the park where hikers can rest and buy supplies.
They can also hit the East Rim Mountain Bike Trail, which provides opportunities for off-road biking, as well as the Summit Metro Parks’ Bike & Hike Trail, which offers a clean and paved trail for cyclists and hikers. Visitors will find bike shops throughout the area for repairs.
If you’re not in the mood for a hiking or biking tour, you can still explore the park via the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railway, which offers themed train tours throughout the year.
Click here to read their COVID-19 guidelines for a safe and stress-free visit to the park.
Hocking Hills State Park
19852 State Route 664 S.
Logan, Ohio
Hocking Hills State Park offers a serene and tranquil environment with cascading falls, sandstone cliffs, caves, and lush foliage. There are five major hiking areas with multiple trails that are suitable for varying skill levels. Old Man’s Cave is recommended for less experienced hikers and visitors who are new to the area.
Other park highlights include Cedar Falls, Cantwell Cliffs, Conkle’s Hollow, and the John Glenn Astronomy Park, which is considered one of the best places for stargazing in Ohio.
Aside from hiking, the park also provides countless opportunities for horseback riding, rock climbing, canoeing, and ziplining.
Hopewell Culture National Historical Park
16062 OH-104
Chillicothe, Ohio
Located in Chillicothe, OH, the Hopewell Culture National Historical Park is considered sacred ground by Native Americans, whose ancestors built the park’s characteristic monumental mounds and earthen enclosures nearly 2,000 years ago.
Guests will get to explore an intriguing series of geometric earthworks with high walls, representing the ceremonial remnants of Hopewell culture and heritage. Highlights include the Hopeton Earthworks and Mound City Group. Locals recommend using an aerial map of the earthworks to help guests identify and appreciate the geometric complexes in the park.
The visitor center remains open everyday of the week, 9:00am to 4:00pm. Grounds are open daylight hours.
Wayne National Forest
13700 US Highway 33
Nelsonville, Ohio
Nestled in the Appalachian foothills, Wayne National Forest spans more than 833,000 acres across 12 counties. A popular spot for backpacking excursions, the forest is prized for its rolling terrain and stunning waterways.
It also offers hiking and biking opportunities with over 300 miles of scenic trails. Horses and ATV are allowed on many of the trails though visitors must secure the necessary permits.
Looking for other things to do in Chagrin Falls and Greater Cleveland? Get more ideas from our blog.
Get access to these wonderful parks and forests when you move to Cleveland, OH or the surrounding areas. Get in touch with me, Michelle McQuade to start working with the best Realtor in Cleveland and find your dream home.