Natural surface trail provides first-time access to Chippewa Creek Gorge

by Melissa Martin

Cleveland Metroparks has opened a new natural-surface trail in the Brecksville Reservation to provide guests with access into the scenic Chippewa Creek Gorge.

The trail winds through Brecksville Reservation’s oak-hickory forest along the ridge top before descending into the gorge, which was previously inaccessible to the public due to its steep terrain.

Opened to the public in October, the Gorge Loop features two large rock staircases leading guests nearly 100 feet down into the gorge.

The gorge was naturally created by glaciers, which once covered several parts of Northeast Ohio.

Designed and constructed by the Cleveland Metroparks Trails Division using only natural and locally sourced stone and materials, the half-mile Gorge Loop is accessible via the all-purpose trail along Chippewa Creek Drive near the Harriet Keeler Picnic Area.

Cleveland Metroparks CEO Brian Zimmerman said several overlooks and stone staircases were hand-constructed using traditional building techniques inspired by the Civilian Conservation Corps and Works Progress Administration.

A donation from the Brown and Kunze Foundation, along with contributions from private individuals, helped fund the loop, which allows hikers to “take in the spectacular sights and sounds of Chippewa Creek,” he said.

“The addition of the new trail and [forthcoming] Andrews Nature Play Area offers even more opportunities [for visitors] to find [their] path and get outdoors in nature this fall,” Zimmerman added.

The new half-acre nature play area is also expected to open in the Brecksville Reservation sometime this fall. Featuring natural-based play structures including a hillside slide, wood bridge, climbing structures and swings, the Andrews Nature Play Area was also funded through donations to the Cleveland Metroparks, Zimmerman said.

Along with the Gorge Loop, Cleveland Metroparks continues to improve access and connections throughout the Emerald Necklace through the recent completion of the Red Line Greenway, Whiskey Island Trail, Wendy Park Bridge and more.

Guests can download the free Cleveland Metroparks mobile app to explore all the new trails across the Emerald Necklace. ∞