Plenty to do at Cleveland Metroparks

CLEVELAND – If you want to take an exciting trip this summer, you don’t have to travel far. Visit Cleveland Metroparks and enjoy the opportunities for warm weather activities available in reservations and outdoor recreation areas.

The Park District provides countless warm weather recreation opportunities, including swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, golf, and historical visits, and an ideal backdrop for summer family fun.

Swimming areas located in Cleveland Metroparks are open mid-July through Labor Day. Huntington Beach in Huntington Reservation, Wallace Lake in Mill Stream Run Reservation, and Hinckley Lake in Hinckley Reservation are free and open at 11 a.m. daily.

Ledge Pool (an 80-by-100-foot stainless steel pool) and Recreation Area is open through Aug. 19 and charges daily admission. Season passes are available.

Go fishing.

Cleveland Metroparks visitors know what a gem the Emerald Necklace is when it comes to fishing in Greater Cleveland. Area anglers make nearly 350,000 trips each year to fish in Cleveland Metroparks waters.

The Park District has 13 major fishing areas and holds ownership to 26 stream miles of Rocky River, which supports a major steelhead trout fishery.

There are also opportunities for anglers to access Lake Erie through Cleveland Metroparks. Park visitors can fish daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., unless waters are closed.

An Ohio fishing license is required for all persons between the ages of 16 and 65 inclusive, and motor boats are prohibited on park waters.

Come to Cleveland Metroparks to catch bass, trout, walleye, crappie, bluegill, and channel catfish.

Also, the Park District will hold National Fishing Week festivities between June 3-9.

Boating opportunities.

For those who like to ride the waves, enjoy boating in one of Cleveland Metroparks facilities. Emerald Necklace Marina in Rocky River Reservation, Hinckley Boathouse in Hinckley Reservation, and Wallace Lake in Mill Stream Run Reservation provide boating enthusiasts with a good starting point for their nautical outings.

Hiking and biking.

Cleveland Metroparks has a variety of trails available for such outdoor activities as hiking, biking, walking, jogging, in-line skating, and horseback riding.

The Park District has over 60 miles of paved all purpose trails, perfect for power-walking in your local reservation or taking a leisurely stroll on a sunny weekend afternoon. No motorized vehicles are allowed on these trails.

Nearly 82 miles of bridle trails are also available for equestrian use. Naturalists can direct horseback riders to these trails. Riders must stay on the bridle trails and attend their horses at all times.

Play 18 holes.

Cleveland Metroparks Golf offers fast play, fast greens, and the best value in Cleveland with six golf courses located throughout Cuyahoga County.

Golfers from amateurs to experts can find the course that fits their service needs and style of play, all within the Emerald Necklace.

Courses remain open through December, weather permitting. The courses are open daily from dawn to dusk, and are available for outings of over 20 people or more.

Pack a picnic lunch.

Take advantage of Cleveland Metroparks 70 picnic areas and shelters. Most are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

There are a number of reserved areas that can be used for group outings, such as family reunions or company social events. These areas include picnic tables, grills, and other amenities.

They can be reserved up to a year in advance, and there is a charge of $50 a day on weekdays and $100 a day on weekends and holidays.

To place a reservation call our Visitor Services Division (216-351-6300).

Visit landmarks.

Visit some of the natural landmarks of Cleveland Metroparks, including Tinker’s Creek and Tinker’s Creek Gorge Scenic Overlook in Bedford Reservation, Chippewa Creek in Brecksville Reservation, and Whipp’s and Worden’s Ledges in Hinckley Reservation.

Cleveland is not only rich in natural beauty, it is also rich in history as well. Explore some of the area’s fascinating historical sites in Cleveland Metroparks.

Historical sites.

Take a day and tour Squire’s Castle in North Chagrin Reservation, the Stinchcomb Memorial in Rocky River Reservation, Squaw Rock in South Chagrin Reservation, and Squire Rich Home and Museum in Brecksville Reservation.

In addition to these everyday activities and recreation opportunities, Cleveland Metroparks sponsors fun summertime events for your family.

Summer events.

Enjoy Carefree, Car Free in Bedford Reservation on June 23, or in Rocky River Reservation on July 28. Participate in art and nature appreciation at Art and The Park July 21-22, in North Chagrin Reservation.

Cleveland Metroparks offers free brochures on all of its outdoor recreation activities and facilities. For more information call 216-351-6300.