Valley Parkway Connector Trail

You can find parking at various points within the Cleveland Metroparks system that connect to the trail. Specific parking areas are available at the Brecksville Reservation and Mill Stream Run Reservation, which the trail links.

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly! Dogs are welcome, but please ensure they are kept on a leash at all times, as per Cleveland Metroparks regulations.

The trail is enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall offer particularly pleasant experiences. In spring, you'll see new growth, and in fall, the heavily wooded sections of the Brecksville Reservation provide beautiful foliage. Summer can be warm, and winter hiking is possible, but be prepared for potentially icy conditions on the hills.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Valley Parkway Connector Trail or the Cleveland Metroparks. It's free for public use.

The trail is a 10-foot wide paved pathway, suitable for both pedestrians and cyclists. However, don't let the pavement fool you; it features a lot of ups and downs, including some significant hills and long uphill stretches in both directions. There's also a short segment within the Cuyahoga Valley National Park where tree roots might have caused some damage to the surface.

Given its 'difficult' rating and the presence of long uphill stretches and steep sections, this trail is generally not recommended for beginners looking for an easy stroll. It offers a challenging workout even for experienced hikers, with reviewers noting there's 'no easy way to do this trail'.

The trail offers diverse scenery as it winds through the heavily wooded Brecksville Reservation, an 'emerald jewel' in northern Ohio. You'll enjoy pleasant views paralleling Chippewa Creek Drive and Valley Parkway, including strips of woodland and a golf course. The route also passes under the Ohio Turnpike, over Interstate 77, and provides a lovely view from the Station Road Bridge within the Cuyahoga Valley National Park section.

Yes, the Valley Parkway Connector Trail is a crucial link in the region's 'Emerald Necklace' network. It connects the Brecksville Reservation Trail to the Mill Stream Run Reservation All Purpose Trail, and also includes a five-mile connection using the Towpath Trail in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. This creates approximately 70 miles of continuous off-road trail. You may also encounter sections of the Buckeye Trail (Medina), South Brecksville Reservation All Purpose Trail, and Valley Parkway Connector (31%).

The Valley Parkway Connector Trail is primarily an out-and-back trail, serving as a connector between different reservations. While it links to other trails that could form longer loops, the connector itself is not a closed loop.

Given the trail's length and significant elevation changes, it's advisable to bring plenty of water, especially on warmer days. Comfortable hiking shoes are a must, and consider trekking poles for assistance on the steeper ascents and descents. Sunscreen and insect repellent are also recommended, particularly during summer months.

While the trail itself is a connector, you can typically find restrooms and water fountains at various facilities within the Cleveland Metroparks reservations it connects, such as the Brecksville Reservation and Mill Stream Run Reservation. It's always a good idea to check the Metroparks website for specific amenity locations before your visit.