There's no shortage of hidden gems in Northeast Ohio, especially if you love spending time in the great outdoors. From the Cleveland Metroparks to oft-overlooked oases in surrounding counties, nature lovers are truly blessed in and around Forest City. However, I find that many of the finest parks are some of the least-known in Cleveland. Today, we're going to take a visit to a historic stretch of land in Grafton, Ohio, that's well worth a trip. This incredible former quarry-turned-park near Cleveland has much to offer, from stunning views to historic elements. Ready to road trip from Cleveland to the Lorain County Metro Parks? Let's dive in!
Indian Hollow Reservation is a destination in Grafton, Ohio, that's well worth a trip from Cleveland. I actually love this area... it feels a bit sleepy and quaint, though it's home to some 6,000 residents. Heavily wooded and endlessly charming, this region of Northeast Ohio is truly a hidden gem.
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This breathtaking reservation includes three parks: Sheldon Woods, Royal Oaks, and the Midview Soccer Complex.
These different park entrances offer varied views of the park... the northernmost and southernmost regions of the park are bordered by a railroad, but there's even more to see throughout the bulk of the reservation.
You'll likely spot a variety of native Ohio critters during your visit, but you might also spot evidence of this area's early human residents. While the earliest arrivals in Lorain County were French trappers and other opportunistic pioneers, the people that ultimately claimed this area set their sights on its resources as a soon-to-be quarry.
In fact, one of the best hikes in the park takes you past historical features in an area where a quarry once flourished.
We've talked about the prominence of Ohio sandstone quarries before, but nothing puts this industry into perspective quite like a hike through a historic quarry. Windfall Quarry Trail in the Sheldon Woods area is only about a mile in length, but it will take you past historical features (including a spot where water once turned a mill, an old grindstone, and a well where steam boilers once pulled their water) that allow you to step back in time.
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There's even more to see in the park, however, from the longest trail (Big Loop Trail, 1.2 miles) to the shortest (The expert Mountain Bike Trail, just 0.15 miles).
The park is almost divided into two distinct sections, connected by Sheldon Oaks Trail crossing over Parsons Road. It's worth exploring both sections of the reservation, so don't be afraid to budget extra time for exploration.
This is a great place to relax, picnic, hike, or fish at the three distinct catch-and-release ponds.
If you're a fishing fan, a birdwatcher, or just your average run-of-the-mill nature lover, you're in for a treat at Indian Hollow Reservation. There's so much to see in this landscape, from the historic route where a railroad once stretched to the former golf course grounds where you can now get a workout in.
While the area is rich with wildlife today, it's almost hard to imagine that the area was once crawling with mastodon, wolves, and giant ground sloths.
During the last ice age, the entirety of Northeast Ohio was under ice... that's why we don't have any mountains today, and likely why Ohio's rocks predate the reign of the dinosaurs. The landscape was permanently altered by these bulldozing glaciers, but as they retreated, megafauna found a fantastic wealth of resources here.
Of course, the first residents in the area were indigenous tribes, many of whom left evidence of their presence in the form of arrowheads, pottery shards, and refuse pits. However, when European settlers started flooding into the area, they set their sights on establishing new businesses. Fur trappers, quarriers, farmers, millers, and other savvy pioneers put down roots in the area.
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No matter the season, visiting the park is a great way to experience Ohio past and present.
Look for the grindstone on Windfall Quarry Trail to help visualize what this landscape once was compared to how it is today. There's a great deal of historic interest here, but also a bit of hope for the future... nature has beautifully reclaimed this landscape that was once cleared for quarrying.
And each season truly transforms the landscape in a magical way... it's worth paying a few visits at different points of the year!
This pretty park belongs on your bucket list, and it might even merit a few trips each year! With over 700 acres, it could easily take a few trips to explore the bulk of what this park has to offer.
This 726-acre park near Cleveland just might become your new favorite.
Even if you think you've seen all that Northeast Ohio has to offer, this pretty park near Cleveland is worthy of a visit. It's peaceful, fairly light on foot traffic, and a lovely escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Spend a bit of time in Indian Hollow Reservation for a chance to reconnect with nature.
Head out to Grafton, Ohio to experience this gorgeous park.
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Every trip from Cleveland to the Lorain County Metro Parks is a treat, as this pretty park district simply has so much to offer. Have you ever visited Indian Hollow Reservation? Tell us about your experience in the comments!
Love learning about local history? Get to know the story of Paleo Crossing to wrap your mind around the long human history in this part of Ohio.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
Spring weather in Cleveland is always a treat. The sun finally breaks through the gloom that leaves our sky roughly the same shade as our sidewalks, bathing the local landscape in life-giving light. Soon, spring flowers follow, and they're a welcome reprieve from the bleakness of winter. They also make hiking in the Cleveland Metroparks a treat like no other! At Bedford Reservation, there's one trail that's a bit of a hidden gem, but it's one of the loveliest wildflower hikes in the Cleveland Metroparks. You can check out the path on AllTrails, but I've gathered some info on the types of flowers you might encounter to get your adventure started on this spring hike in Cleveland. Check it out:
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Tucked away in Bedford Reservation, the Alexander Road Trailhead at Sagamore Creek is full of surprises.
With some 2,200 acres to explore, there's no shortage of beauty in Bedford Reservation. This part of the park houses Sagamore Creek Loop, which intersects with the Buckeye Trail and Summit Metroparks territory.
Some portions of the 3.5-mile Sagamore Creek Loop are easy, but if you can manage venturing deeper past forested slopes, waterfalls await.
Of course, waterfalls are dependent on rainfall, so there aren't always cascades, and they're not always big. Nevertheless, a number of small waterfalls beckon to hikers with their dreamy song.
This portion of the park is also known for its wildflowers, which bloom throughout the warmer months.
From early spring to late summer, there's always something gorgeous growing at Bedford Reservation. Queen Anne's Lace, pictured here, usually pops up around June and lingers until the fall. This plant is actually part of the wild carrot family, and it's similar in appearance to poison hemlock. You should never pluck plants growing in public parks, but definitely read up on poison hemlock to ensure you avoid it while you're out hiking.
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Of course, springtime is arguably the most magical season at the park, as all sorts of beautiful blooms start popping up.
Beginning in April, gorgeous spring flowers break through the dirt to greet the lengthening day. These gorgeous little azure bluets often pop up around the same time sought-after plants like trillium and squirrel corn appear, so sharp-eyed hikers can expect a visual treat during their visit.
Sometimes, surprising plants like ghost pipe pop up, too.
This flowered plant is, believe it or not, a plant, not a fungus. The plant isn't necessarily rare, but it's not the most common sight, and finding it is always a surprise. Hikers have reported seeing it at Sagamore Creek Loop, so keep your eyes peeled!
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To visit this beautiful park, you'll want to park at the trailhead off of Alexander Road (west of Dunham Road).
The parking lot isn't huge, but fortunately, this isn't the busiest little park in the Cleveland Metroparks. However, the entrance is a bit of a challenge to find. There's no sign (or if there is, I missed it) to mark the park, so I recommend navigating to this spot with a GPS or keeping your eyes peeled for a tiny parking lot.
Bring some water for this hike, as the slopes may leave you needing fuel, but be prepared to take frequent stops for pictures.
The flowers growing at Sagamore Creek Loop are plentiful and stunning, so be prepared to take lots of photos. You never know what colors and patterns await you!
You're going to love this stunning spring Cleveland Metroparks hike.
Look for the parking lot in Walton Hills, OH 44146.
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Sagamore Creek Loop, rich with trillium blooms and ghost pipes, is perhaps the loveliest spring wildflower hike in the Cleveland Metroparks. Are there any other Cleveland Metroparks hikes you love in the spring? Let us know your recommendations in the comments!
Want to embark on more spring hikes? Check out some of my favorite wildflower hikes near Cleveland to start building your own bucket list.
