I'm from the east side, and for years I've driven over the bridges telling myself, "One day I'm going to stop and wander through that park." I'm so happy I finally did. Now I already know I'll be back, because we only explored part of it -- but what my sister, her pup, and I wandered through was fun, peaceful, and a little adventurous. At one point there was literally a giant mallard just standing in the middle of the woods like he owned the place. And then there were stairs that climb straight up the side of the mountain -- okay, hill -- but it felt like a mountain in the best way. The whole walk made me feel free. If you ever find yourself wanting a moment outside, a breath of fresh air, or just a place to wander, stop here. It's worth it. read more

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Rocky River Reservation is so pretty. There are many trails and walking paths in this park. They have a popular nature center as well. The park has plenty of parking, depending on what area you would like to explore. There is a golf course and multiple areas for fishing. You can also take your kayak and kayak the emerald necklace. Very pretty during the fall. I recommend bringing a picnic to one of the many picnic areas or sitting on one of the many benches throughout the park and enjoying mother nature. read more

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Very fun walking trails. Has a nice nature center that has small aquariums and other aquatic animals. They also have maps, and different historical things to see inside. Theres chairs where you can sit and watch wildlife outside like birds, chipmunks, turtles, skunks, opossums. Theres one trail in particular that is very cute for kids, has a story throughout the trail. As you walk through the trail you seen more pages of the "story" and gives you insight to some of the animals on the trail. Very fun for kids to walk through and be excited to find the next page of the story or trying to find the metal silhouette that matches the page with the corresponding animal. Theres another long trail that features several sets of stairs overlooking the water and trees providing a very interesting and beautiful view if the trails. read more

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There is some nice stuff here, but I found the area frustrating. Parking was packed; fair enough on a busy weekend. But with the road running so close to the water and the cliffs, I never really got the sense of being in the park. Construction made it difficult to get around as well. A visitor center was a nice indoor space, but I came for the outdoors and did not get as much as I was hoping. When the construction is done, and perhaps on a less busy day, it may be a better spot. read more

Rocky River Reservation - Parks Near Me - North Olmsted, Ohio

Love the new nature skate for kids! My kids thoroughly enjoyed it! And they always love going into the nature Center as well! So much fun for them to play inside the tree! Love the storybook Trail! And the path with the bridges. read more

Rocky River Reservation - Parks Near Me - North Olmsted, Ohio

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Wow, I can't get over how beautiful this place is. The fall colors were stunning the day we were there and the weather happened to be perfect. This was our first stop on our little weekend getaway and it was the best stop of them all. Make sure you go into the visitors center, they have maps, a small gift store, clean restrooms and a cute little area to look out the giant picture window and bird watch. There are so many trails! We did the one that goes up the steps (yes, there are a lot but I promise it's worth it) and that really gave us the best view of all the amazing colors. I can't wait to go back in the spring!! read more

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This is one of my favorite parks ever! This is an amazing park for birdwatching and just observing nature in general! The river is filled with minnows and crawfish. Overall 10/10 (5.0 stars) (my review from Google maps) read more

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This 5 star-rating is for the wide well-maintained paved all-purpose trail in a spectacular outdoor setting. It would also be a lovely drive along the Valley Parkway that it follows. read more

Rocky River Reservation - Paved multipurpose trail along Valley Parkway road - Parks Near Me - North Olmsted, Ohio

Before I highlight the Rocky River Reservation and Nature Center, I'm going to plug the Cleveland Metroparks. The Metroparks was created in 1917 from the vision of a group of local citizens who wanted to preserve the natural beauty of the area for future generations. Collectively, the Metroparks is a system of 18 reservations that cover over 24,000 square acres of land in Cuyahoga County and surrounding areas. It's one of the largest metropolitan park systems in the United States and includes over 200 miles of trails for hiking, cycling and horseback riding. It has over 100 lakes and ponds stocked with fish and various beaches and pools for swimming. There are 9 golf courses and the world class Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. The Rocky River Reservation is one of many gems in the Metroparks system. Its features include... - A winding course of over 10 miles of trails with waterfalls and scenic bluffs - Diverse flora and fauna - Boating and fishing including a park boat launch and kayak rentals - Horseback riding where you can take a guided trail ride or bring your own horse to explore the reservation's trails - Picnicking and grilling - A nature center that offers exhibits, educational programs, and a breathtaking view of the Rocky River - Golfing at three championship golf courses within the reservation -An ancient American Indian earthworks at Fort Hill with remnants of a pre-Columbian settlement read more

Great place for hikes and walks. We all love it. Lots of dogs walking. Naturalists are great and they offer great programs as well. read more

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Bonnie park Great little picnic area with geese and a pond. They are in the process of restoring to more of a natural wetland so there is some construction. Park is bordered by the rocky river. Nice little spot right in the middle of the city. read more

Rocky River Reservation - Parks Near Me - North Olmsted, Ohio

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Love it! Will definitely visit again when I come to Ohio. Didn't expect this trail to be so long. I highly recommend to walk the trails without headphones and listen to all natures sound around you. read more

I finally got to visit the famous "Fort Hill Stairs" at Rocky River Reservation. OMG, I loved it!!! I went here on Saturday, 4 November 2017 and the weather was perfect. Upon arriving, the first stop was of course, the stairs. My roommate and I walked up the steps and stopped mid-way through to take photos of the beautiful Autumn leaves. Then, once we reached the top of the stairs, we stopped again to take photos of all of nature. The view up there especially in Fall season is amazing. After taking all the photos, we hiked into the woods for a little bit before turning right back around towards the stairs and heading down. I wish we could have spent more time here but we came here a bit late (4:30pm) and it got dark by 5:30pm so next time, I will hope to spend more time here. It gets really dark in the winter so I'm glad I got to visit this metropark before winter hits. Oh, a tip for you is to visit the nature center (or visitor center) because of all the informational materials and photos of nature that there is inside plus if you step outside from the center, you'll see a river (Rocky River I found out...duh). It is quite peaceful to stand out there and listen to the water and birds. The bathrooms inside were clean too. Come visit on a weekend and explore. read more

What a beautiful place to hike. I had no idea this reservation was located right here next to Cleveland , OH. Beautiful scenery and tons of trails. The exercise and nature was just what I needed to get my week started. read more

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The Fort Hill steps at the RR Nature center/reservation are my FAVORITE place to bust out a good sweat! A climb up the steps leads you to a beautiful park above, with amazing views of the valley and river. There are many trails and good signage directing you. We visit this spot at least once a week and love it so much!! It is extra special in the fall, when the leaves are changing colors -- golden views everywhere. read more

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I thoroughly enjoyed a 15 mile walk from Emerald Necklace Marina to Berea Falls. You are on a path at every point except when having to cross a street or bridge. The scenery is wonderful, flora and fauna abound, and everyone who you pass is friendly. Cyclists are very good at alerting you with a bell or yelling "on your left" in plenty of time. This would be a fantastic place to do a long training run. It's flat and there are bathrooms every 3 to 4 miles. However, drinking fountains and other services are more scarce. read more

If you live in NE Ohio and haven't been to Rocky River Reservation, what are you doing?! I mean...this is such a great spot for a little adventure in nature at all times of the year. But ESPECIALLY in fall. I've been here before, but had to come out here this year to see all the fall colors. Every time that I've been here before, there are a good amount of people visiting. I was happily surprised to see that it was so busy yesterday that people were parking on the side of the road, just a short walk outside of the Nature Center parking lot! Parking is free, just another perk! You could easily spend a few hours at this reservation. There are multiple trails and the popular Fort Hill Stairs, which they've just renovated about two years ago. This is technically located in the southern part of the reservation. There are signs at the Nature Center for a really cool waterfall but that is probably a further drive down. I'm looking forward to seeing that the next time I visit. *Yes, you will get winded going up those stairs, but they've conveniently put a cute little look out spot halfway up. So as you're out of breath and feeling the burn in your legs, you can say "Oh! I want to take a picture here" and not feel so shameful of how out of shape you are.. (tips from a friend, totally).* Nevertheless, the halfway overlook spot is a perfect photo opportunity to snap where the East and West branches of the Rocky River meet. As you climb up to the top, you'll get breathtaking views of the surrounding area. During the fall, you'll be lucky to see all of the colorful, changing leaves on the trees. There is a small loop at the top of the stairs, with a path that you can walk downhill towards to lower trails. There are multiple benches scattered around the reservation if you need to catch your breath or just want to sit and enjoy another one of the gems that the Cleveland Metroparks takes care of. Be mindful that it may be muddy! So bring out your hiking boots or shoes that you don't care that get dirty. I think some of the cliffs don't have railings, just take extra precautions if you have little ones or fur babies. Or, for other clumsy people like me, just keep on the paths. Lastly, the Nature Center is WONDERFUL. Both for children and adults!! Check it out before or after spending time on the trails. They have interactive modules to teach about the history of Rocky River and the variety of animals that are there. The day we went, they had complementary coffee and/or tea inside as well. There is even a library nook for anyone to sit and browse through! You could spend a good hour in there, or more, if you go through everything. They do have clean restrooms inside, but if it is closed, there is a bathroom/port a potty just outside of the parking lot. I highly, HIGHLY recommend coming out to this reservation, or any of the other Cleveland Metroparks. Dress for the weather, but it is a wonderful way to adventure outside and get off the grid for a few hours. As they advertise on their social media: "It's #TimetoExplore Cleveland metroparks" read more

Me and my girlfriend wanted a great adventure we've never been on. We chose this place as the most ideal place. We were not disappointed. This place was full of people, family and pets. It's got bathrooms and activities as well. The paths were a little muddy but there's enough here to keep the average outdoorsman at bay for a few hours. read more

Top shelf. The amount of observable nature presented in this location will not disappoint even the experienced bipedal mammal who fancies a stroll or a brisk constitutional down the trails. Do not plan on snagging, as it is frowned upon. read more

We came here to get some miles in for the Cleveland Metroparks trail challenge and were not disappointed. We figured out that the best part to hike (not paved path mutli-purpose, which runs parallel to the main parkway) is at the nature center. Park there and walk up some steps to see an awesome view of the gorge. Walk the trails up there and back down along the river. We spent a couple hours doing all the trails at the visitor center. There is also an awesome part of the park called Berea Falls. It's right off the main parkway and the view is breath-taking. It made for a very nice day. Besides that there is a golf course, many picnic areas, and equestrian trails. I remember a stone wading pool from when I was a kid, I think that is still there, it's pretty neat. read more

I love the Cleveland Metroparks. It's nice to be able to escape the city. They have so many free programs and events for families too.

I had a chance to enjoy the Rocky River Reservation once again this weekend while I was in Cleveland. It used to be just down the street from where I lived, and I took it for granted at that time. This time, though, I knew what I had been missing. I made the trek from the East Side to the Reservation, just to jog it, while I was in town for a short visit. If you haven't been, it's a real treat, and reminiscent of some of the famous Frederic Law Olmsted parks I've been to The reservation has an abundance of paved trails that meander through the woods - just what I was looking for to bliss out while running. It allowed me to run on a paved path (no tripping over roots!) without having to worry about cars. With mile markers to let you know how far you have traveled in both directions (Barrett Rd and Detroit Rd - almost 13 miles between the two). Aside from the trails, you'll also see people out fishing in the Rocky River, maybe see a game or two of ultimate frisbee or soccer, golf, and -- if the weather's really nice -- quite a few picnics at the picnic areas sprinkled around the area. Bathrooms are easy to be found at many places throughout the park. If you live on the West Side . . . WHAT are you WAITING for?!? Get your buns outdoors and see what you've been missing at the Rocky River Reservation! read more

We're so blessed in this area to have the MetroParks and the Rocky River Reservation is no exception. I love to come to this location and hit up some of the trails. There are over 5 miles of trails in this Reservation and you can pick and choose to your liking. On this last visit, I sadly noted my "Stairs of Death" were removed. The parks had a sign posted noting that the shale was moving due to the movement on the stairs. They're looking to replace them with a more sustainable product and more environmental friendly. I'll be looking forward to the new product when it arrives. While the "Stairs of Death" are a beast to climb, the view from the top can't be ignored! If you're a hiker, stroller, birder, or runner, I'm sure you'll find something to enjoy at this reservation. Stop by when the Nature Center is open and learn a bit of history on the park system and this location in general. There's even a cute little gift shop if you so desire. read more

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This is such a great park for a nature walk with a dog (or a run) on a nice paved trail. I first visited this park in the fall of 2015 when all of the leaves were changing. Simply beautiful. My friend and I were shocked to see that people also horseback ride next to the regular trail. It's definitely a spot to revisit for a leisurely walk or run when it is nice out! read more

Rocky River Reservation - Beautiful views! - Parks Near Me - North Olmsted, Ohio

Famous for the 155 Fort Hill Stairs! Beautiful place with so many trials, birds, animals and benches and so much more. I love coming here for an intense workout. It can get pretty muddy in some locations. The heights are pretty nice but stick to the trails. read more

Rocky River Reservation - Parks Near Me - North Olmsted, Ohio

This reservation, by far, is one of my absolute favs!!! When I first came to Cleveland, I didn't know what to expect, but the RRR made me fall in love with this area. Every time I returned, I discovered another part which offered natural beauty which was even more beautiful than the day before. From the trails which led to elevations with breathtaking views, to the "mini" waterfalls which sounds seduce you to stay a little longer than planned, the RRR is a place that became almost a daily stop on my list during my stay in Cleveland. I know that I will be back to Cleveland soon just to get back to get back to this reservation... read more

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I almost fell of the bridge. I was a very fun experience with a great view. You really need to fix that bridge. :) Your friend Steven

It's funny that I think of Rocky River Reservation with a sort of nostalgia, even though it's only been a few months since I've gone running here. I guess I've been in "hibernation mode" ever since I haven't seen pavement for more than 24 hours in a row. But when the weather is pleasant (and probably when it's not!), RRR is just wonderful. I spent the first month or so of living in Ohio not knowing exactly where to go to be outdoorsy. Once I experienced this and several other parks and trails, I realize what a great asset they are and how much being outdoors keeps me sane. I have never before used the phrase "one with nature" until I ran through Rocky River's hilly, tree-laden paths. Of course, I only used the phrase in my head until now, not wanting to sound TOO much like a hippie. For those runners concerned about hydration, if you strategically plan your route, you can hit at least a couple really good water fountains along the way. And there's a plethora of bathrooms. You can choose to run on a paved, all-purpose trail, or take some more rugged dirt paths in the woodsy area. I've done both, and one word always comes to mind when I'm surrounded by trees: serenity. read more

Was here recently with my family. One of the things that I love about being a Cleveland resident is that you always have something to do. Where are you? You are never more than 5 minutes from the entrance to a beautiful green space right inside the city, and this particular space has it all: hiking trails, a nature center that the kids adore, golf, sports fields, playgrounds, horseback riding trails, etc. There are these amazing stairs on the trail behind the nature center that are great for fitness, but also provide a lovely view of the River from about 150-200 feet up. As a bonus, you can drive the lovely Valley Parkway (we always try to bet on how many cars we will pass going in the opposite direction driving up or down the valley road), which empties easily onto Lorain Ave. about 1 mile from the East Coast Custard location near Fairview Hospital. If you pack a lunch, you could make a whole day of this! read more

Beautiful area! So many trails to explore. Visit in the fall- the leaves are incredible.

Have a couple of friends that work for the Parks Service and they told me about this little fest Frostville that was goin down this past weekend. Also, I see my dude Greg checking in here so I had to check the place out! I hoped in my whip with my 3yr old and we headed down to Rock River! Its a great little olde-tymey fest with a little village setup and some vendors selling candles and chuckwagon type stuff. Once Syrup was done rockin the stage we got to pet some animals and chat with the mounted po-po's about their horses. She had a blast. I think its only a one day fest so check it out next year! Bring your own flask cuz I guess they didnt have beer back in the pioneer days!! read more

As far as the parks and the beauty of the parks A+. As far as the management of the parks or their gracious attitude towards visiting guests.... that's a whole other story. We were traveling by sail through Lake Erie. We had engine failure and needed to make a quick stop. Rocky river (emerald necklace) was the closest place to stop, after sailing through the harbor to what appeared to be guest docking we tied up to fix the engine. Unfortunately the engine was not fixable and we had to purchase one, but by this time we had to wait until morning when the stores reopened. Upon returning from our purchase we took the boat down the river to test the engine before heading onto the lake. We stopped at the same dock to get ready to ship off and we were told by Rick "the man in charge" as he described himself, that these are guest docks and to avoid having them call the police we needed to leave. We left and I rented a beautiful slip at north harbor marina for a few days, who were more than accommodating. Upon frustration I called the metro parks office to find out the full details of those docks, they had no information they could give me. I was told by emerald necklace marina that there is no transient docking and that there is no place for boaters from other marinas to even just spend a few hours having a picnic in the park, disappointing. not the same warm attitudes I had encountered years back when we visited last time. I also found out from Multiple members At the emerald necklace marina , that a family of four had just spent the four days prior to our visit at that very dock without issue. Just wondering why we pick and choose who can stay and how long is acceptable for the stay and who decides these unposted regulations. I was also told the park closed at 11pm but there were a rowdy bunch of kids and drinking fisherman sitting on the pier the entire night laughing and from what we could see enjoying their time. Maybe if I was loud and rude and causing a ruckus I could see them asking me to leave, but I offered to pay them for my time and theirs and was denied. Not a place for safe harbor. read more

Easy access, lots of beautiful wooded areas with well marked trails. Visiting from out of town, this is pleasant oasis close to the city.

Just the stop we needed to stretch and let the kids play before catching a plane. Mastick playground was beautiful and felt very safe

The Rocky River Reservation is such a great place to spend some time outside. I have been training for a 10k, and I really needed a good place to do longer runs. The trails are just fantastic for getting in 5 miles or more! The trails are very well marked and the mile markers really help too. I love the fisherman fishing along the river. It really makes you feel like you are in the country, and not in the middle of a big city. I plan on taking advantage of this great resource a lot more. Check it out! read more

We were here for the Settler's Festival and had a great time listening to the music and touring the area. Great place to visit!!

Amazing sights and sounds..good walking trails and the wildlife is amazing. Towards twilight hours you can find wildlife running about. Beautiful gem below the cities busy life. read more