Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation

A Natural Oasis in the City

Set in Cleveland's industrial valley, the Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation feels like a secret 325-acre escape that stretches through Cuyahoga Heights and Valley View. It's kind of amazing how this lush pocket of greenery exists right in the middle of the city's industrial landscape, offering fields, forests, and surprisingly diverse wildlife.

Keep your eyes peeled and you might spot hawks circling overhead or herons wading gracefully in the shallows. If you're really lucky, you could catch a glimpse of beavers or deer going about their day. There's something fascinating about how this park blends natural elements with subtle remnants of the area's industrial heritage, telling the story of this region's complex past through its landscape.

The water features here are pretty special too. Between the ponds, lakes, and the historic canal itself, there's plenty of blue to complement all that green. Don't miss the Blue Heron Boardwalk - it's a wonderful spot to pause, breathe, and maybe catch some wildlife doing their thing in the marshlands below.

From Industrial Past to Natural Present

The Cleveland Metroparks established this reservation in 1999, preserving a 4.3-mile stretch of the former Ohio and Erie Canal between Harvard Avenue and Rockside Road. What you'll see here is actually the northernmost 4.4 miles of the original canal that still contains water - a living piece of history that now is wildlife habitat, fishing spot, and scenic backdrop.

The reservation isn't just a local park - it's part of the Ohio and Erie Canal National Heritage Corridor, which Congress officially recognized in 1996. It also forms a crucial link in the developing Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail, which aims to eventually create one continuous path from Cleveland all the way to New Philadelphia, Ohio.

Trails Worth Traveling

Whether you're an avid hiker or just looking for a pleasant stroll, there are trails for every preference. The 7.2-mile all-purpose trail connects to the broader Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail system, offering a smooth, well-maintained surface for walking, running, or biking.

The varied terrain means you'll encounter something different around each bend, making repeat visits worthwhile. Most paths are nicely paved with concrete, but you can find some more natural surfaces if that's more your style.

If you're into cycling, you'll definitely want to check out the Cleveland Cliffs Bike Park. It's popular among Northeast Ohio mountain biking enthusiasts, with jumps and features ranging from beginner-friendly to challenging enough for advanced riders.

Cast a Line or Just Unwind

Fishing enthusiasts will find plenty to love here, especially if you're after catfish in the canal waters. The multiple access points make it easy to find your own quiet fishing spot without much hassle.

Even if fishing isn't your thing, the peaceful waterways provide a calming backdrop for walks. The scenery transforms beautifully with the changing seasons, making this a park worth visiting year-round.

Everything You Need

The heart of the reservation is the Leonard Krieger CanalWay Center, where you can explore exhibits that tell the story of how people, industry, and nature have interacted throughout the Cuyahoga Valley's history. The center features some cool interactive displays and even has a multi-purpose room you can book for events. They also run educational programs that are worth checking out.

You'll find clean restrooms both in the visitor center and at convenient spots along the trails. If you're planning to make a day of it, there are plenty of picnic areas with tables and grills that make for perfect lunch spots.

Families with kids will appreciate the two playgrounds that complement all the natural attractions. And don't worry about parking - there are plenty of spaces available at various access points throughout the reservation, though you might want to arrive early on particularly beautiful weekend days when the lots can fill up.