Ten Places to Spot Wildflowers in Cleveland Metroparks
Hemlock Loop Trail, Bedford Reservation
The rich floodplain forest of Tinker’s Creek harbors a bouquet of spring wildflowers ranging from Virginia bluebells, purple wild geraniums, and the stark white flowers of rue anemone. These flowers are racing to catch the sun and attract pollinators before they are shaded out by the upper canopy of trees.
Wildflower Loop Trail, Brecksville Reservation
Enjoy this short loop, which winds by Wallin Creek, and passes by Brecksville Nature Center. Experience the gardens outside of Brecksville Nature Center and look for trillium, twinleaf, trout lily and other wildflowers along the way.
Bridal Trail (west of Egbert Picnic Area), Bedford Reservation
This trail winds through lovely woodlands and above the gorgeous Tinker's Creek Valley. Wildflowers dot the rich forest floor under towering trees amongst birds, squirrels and busy insects.
APT (between Willow Bend and Berea Falls), Rocky River Reservation
A hotspot for Virginia bluebells, make this hike on the all-purpose trail as long or as short as you like. If you are willing to hike two miles round trip, you will also catch a view of Berea Falls.
North Chagrin Nature Center Gardens, North Chagrin Reservation
The sprawling and immaculate native plant collections at North Chagrin Nature Center are an inspiring example of how to incorporate native plants into the home landscape. Dozens of species are available to view within a short walk, and include pollinator gardens, perennial edibles, a sensory garden and spring wildflower garden.
Sulphur Springs Loop, South Chagrin Reservation
Each bend of this roller coaster of a trail boasts a different floral array. Blue cohosh, sessile trillium and more can be found among the hills and along the banks of Sulphur Springs Creek.
Scenic Loop Trail, North Chagrin Reservation
This popular loop trail is well known for its beautiful spring wildflowers. Large-flowered trillium, wild geranium, and hepatica are some of the many species that can be found growing within easy view from the trail.
Squirrel Run Trail, Euclid Creek Reservation
This urban oasis is a haven for native spring wildflowers. Squirrel corn, red and white trillium, blue cohosh, and many more can be seen on this easy-going natural surface trail.
West Channel Pond Loop Trail, Rocky River Reservation
New flora has emerged each growing season along this renovated loop trail around the scenic West Channel Pond. In the spring, large-flowering trillim, wild geranium, early meadow rue, and dutchman's breeches are numerous.
Jackson Field, South Chagrin Reservation
The riverside trails at Jackson Field in South Chagrin Reservation hold the key to scoring in-situ photos of white fawnlily growing alongside the ubiquitous yellow trout lily.