The best walks and hikes around Cleveland

Embark on a moderate hike along the Harrison Dillard Bikeway, a 5.7-mile (9.2 km) route that offers a gentle escape with only 118 feet (36 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete this trail in about 2 hours and 22 minutes. As you hike, you'll follow the winding path of Doan Brook through Rockefeller Park, enjoying the lush greenery and peaceful atmosphere. The trail is entirely paved and off-road, making for a smooth and accessible journey. Keep an eye out for the striking architecture of the Cleveland Museum of Art as you pass by Wade Lagoon, adding an urban touch to the natural surroundings.

Accessing the Harrison Dillard Bikeway is convenient, with several entry points connecting it from the Cleveland Lakefront Bikeway all the way to University Circle. You will find ample parking available near Rockefeller Park and the Cleveland Cultural Gardens, making it easy to start your hike. This trail is particularly enjoyable during the spring and fall months when the foliage is at its most vibrant, offering a beautiful backdrop for your outing. Since it's an urban trail, it's generally accessible year-round, but check local conditions for any specific events or closures.

What truly sets this route apart is its passage through the Cleveland Cultural Gardens, where you can explore over 30 unique gardens celebrating diverse global heritages. Each garden features intricate stonework, statues, and plantings, providing a fascinating cultural journey as you hike. This blend of natural parkland and rich cultural displays makes the Harrison Dillard Bikeway a distinctive and engaging experience within the city.

Hike the easy 3.4-mile Lake View Cemetery Loop, a unique outdoor museum and arboretum with historical landmarks and serene landscapes.

Embark on the Brookside Reservation Loop, an easy hiking route that winds through lush greenery and offers varied scenery. This trail curves around the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, providing unique glimpses of its Tiger Passage and Wolf Lodge areas from the Fulton Road Bridge. You can also enjoy a scenic overlook of Big Creek. The entire loop covers 2.7 miles (4.3 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 126 feet (38 metres), making it a pleasant hike that takes approximately 1 hour and 8 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit to Brookside Reservation is straightforward, as the loop is easily accessible within Cleveland, Ohio. You will find ample parking available, which serves as a convenient starting point for your hike. The area is well-equipped with amenities such as picnic areas, restrooms, and a playground, making it ideal for a day out with family or friends. Consider visiting during daylight hours to fully enjoy the varied scenery and wildlife.

As you explore the trail, keep an eye out for local wildlife such as deer, frogs, and various bird species, especially near the wetland ponds. The route's proximity to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo adds an interesting dimension, allowing you to observe parts of the zoo from a different perspective. This loop offers a refreshing escape into nature right within the city, perfect for a quick and accessible outdoor adventure.

Discover the Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath: Scranton Flats, an easy hiking route that offers a unique perspective on Cleveland's urban landscape. As you walk, you'll enjoy scenic riverfront views along the Cuyahoga River, with the downtown Cleveland skyline and its iconic bridges, including the historic Eagle Avenue Bridge, in clear sight. This short trail covers 0.4 miles (0.7 km) with a minimal elevation gain of 2 feet (1 metres), taking only about 10 minutes to complete. It's a perfect quick escape to observe diverse bird species in a revitalized green space.

Planning your visit to Scranton Flats is straightforward, as the trail is easily accessible for everyone. You will find convenient public parking available at Sokolowski's Overlook, which also provides a direct connection to the Cleveland Foundation Centennial Trail. This makes it simple to start your walk and explore the area without hassle.

This trail is a prime example of urban revitalization, transforming a once-industrial area into a vibrant green space with restored meadowland and a natural river shoreline. Located within the broader Ohio & Erie Canalway National Heritage Area, it highlights a successful blend of natural beauty and historical preservation. The route offers a chance to connect with the region's past while enjoying its present-day ecological efforts.