The Greater Cleveland area is a natural wonderland, and its charming parks capture its essence flawlessly. Locals love destinations like the Rocky River Reservation, the Lakefront Reservation, and the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, but the area offers so much more than these well-known and beloved parks. In fact, Northeast Ohio is home to a number of hidden parks whose serene scenery is coveted by area residents. These lovely spaces are some of the region's best-kept secrets, and you simply must experience the wonders they conceal.

1. Veterans Park - 5730 Hopkins Road, Mentor

Nestled within the borders of this park is the largest inland pond in the county, and the array of native wildlife surrounding the pond and its wetlands is astounding. A 1.78-mile loop trail will take you through dreamy foliage and a boardwalk offers stunning views to casual hikers.

2. Cascade Park - 170 Cascade Drive, Elyria

The twin branches of the Black River come together in this magical 135 acre habitat. The East and West Branches of the river cascade over Berea Sandstone, which has undergone incredible erosion since the glaciers receded. This impressive park has a long history, with indigenous tribes frequenting the area for thousands of years and early settlers scouting out the area soon after Cleveland was founded. Looking for a slice of heaven on Earth? You've found it at this dreamy getaway.

3. Penitentiary Glen Reservation - 8668 Kirtland-Chardon Road, Kirtland

Close your eyes and feel the warm reflection of the sun bouncing back at you from the glistening waters of the wetlands. Inhale and smell the crispness of Ohio's golden season. Welcome to Penitentiary Glen Reservation, which consists of 424 acres of natural space. Over 8 miles of hiking opportunity criss-cross through this park, and its diversity of forest, fields, and wetlands will leave you entranced. After your visit, swing by the Nature Center, Kevin P. Clinton Wildlife Center, and the Nature Store gift shop for a complete experience.

4. Columbia Beach Park - Lake Road and Columbia Road, Bay Village

The charming scenery of this beach attracts people of all ages, and many of them bring their dogs along for the experience. This paradise is filled with the sounds of crashing and cascading water, thanks in part to Lake Erie and a 22-foot waterfall, one of the few known waterfalls to cascade into the Great Lake. This beach is nothing short of beautiful, and you'll doubtlessly find yourself returning again and again.

5. Richfield Heritage Preserve - 4374 Broadview Road, Richfield

This spectacular park preserves 336 acres of what was formerly Camp Crowell Hilaka, a Girl Scout camp that was purchased in 1937. The area's history actually dates back to 1811, when Heman Oviatt purchased the land and established a farm. While the history of this property is mesmerizing, so, too, is the spectacular scenery it hides.

6. Viaduct Park - Willis Street, Bedford

The Great Falls of Tinker's Creek rise 20 feet over the landscape, cresting at a striking 80 feet. The power of the water was harnessed between 1821 and 1913, and scars from an old saw mill, grist mill and electric power plant are still visible today. The viaduct for which this park is named opened in 1865, spanning over the Tinker's Creek gorge.

7. Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation - 4524 East 49th Street, Cleveland

Travel back in time as you stroll alongside the remnants of the historic 309-mile Ohio and Erie Canal. This northernmost stretch of what was once the canal is now an enchanting park and cultural heritage site. The waterways of this fantastic park are home to a number of local species, so keep your eyes peeled throughout each visit.

8. Preston's H.O.P.E. Playground Park - 26001 S Woodland Road, Beachwood

H.O.P.E. stands for "Helping Others Play and Enjoy," and this park fulfills this mission by going above and beyond when it comes to family fun. This park spans 60,000 square feet, offering incredible playground features that accommodate children of all ages and abilities. This park is free, but upon visiting, you should definitely consider leaving a tip in the donation box.

9. Acacia Reservation - 26899 Cedar Road, Lyndhurst

155-acres surround the former Acacia Country Club, combining man-made splendor with an incredible natural environment. A 1.7-mile paved loop trail beckons to visitors, offering scenic views of the stunning park and a comfortable, casual walk under the autumn sun.

10. Nature Center at Shaker Lakes - 2600 S Park Boulevard, Cleveland

This conserved green space offers much to love. This Wildlife Habitat Site does not allow pets, but adults and kids alike will have a superb time visiting the Nature Center and taking a comfortable stroll around the campus.

Few regions seem to have as much natural splendor as Northeast Ohio, and that is likely correlated to the conservation efforts of the local metro parks and cities that maintain and protect our natural spaces. There is so much to love in this region, and there's never been a prettier season to spend exploring it.

For more, check out this local park that is straight out of a fairy tale.