Ten Kid-Friendly Hikes in Cleveland Metroparks
Monarch Trail, West Creek Reservation
This half-mile loop takes you through wetlands, under weeping willows, and close to West Creek. Keep your eyes peeled for basking turtles, hopping frogs, and ducklings or goslings experiencing their first weeks on the water.
West Channel Pond Trail, Rocky River Reservation
Wildlife is plentiful on this easy-to-walk, stroller-friendly loop trail that is accessed just outside the back doors of Rocky River Nature Center. This trail loops along the edge of the wetland and through the forest, offering plenty of opportunity for discovery.
Bunns Lake Loop, Bradley Woods Reservation
This half-mile, easy-to-walk and stroller-friendly trail loops around Bunns Lake. Awesome opportunities for viewing wildlife abound at this mostly shaded trail in the deep forest of Bradley Woods.
North Chagrin Nature Center Marsh Loop, North Chagrin Reservation
This quarter-mile stroller-friendly trail loops around Sanctuary Marsh. The paved path also has boardwalk accessibility over the marsh for up-close viewing of fish, turtles, and wading birds.
Wildflower Loop, Brecksville Reservation
This three-quarters of a mile loop trail brings you to Wallin Creek with only a few stairs required. In addition, the trail brings you along the Oak Hickory forest, near the tallgrass prairie, and just across from the nature play area.
Cottonwood Loop Trail, Rocky River Reservation
Park in the South Mastick Picnic Area parking lot and walk less than a mile while taking in sights of the river, wetlands and forest. On your way back to the car, stop by the open field or playground for a game of tag.
Music Mound Trail, Mill Stream Run Reservation
Enjoy this half-mile loop through the woods and floodplain of the Rocky River. Part of the trail takes you through a meadow habitat, while other parts take you up close to the river.
Meadow Ridge Picnic Area, Brookside Reservation
Go for a fun and leisurely hike along the All Purpose Trail from Meadow Ridge Picnic Area to the Brookside Overlook, taking advantage of the playground, great views of the Big Creek Valley and interesting wetland wildlife.
Viaduct Park Loop, Bedford Reservation
This short, yet scenic trail is packed with remnants of the past. Make a game of searching for signs of the millrace that diverted the water, the power plant and the gristmill. You can even feel the mist coming off the Great Falls of Tinker's Creek.
Blue Heron Boardwalk Trail, Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation
Just a short walk down the hill from CanalWay Center, you'll find the Blue Heron Boardwalk. Search for signs of the active family of beavers that call the wetland home along this short and friendly trail.
