Hogback Ridge Park Ohio Winter Hike
Discover the breathtaking beauty of winter in Ohio with a hike at Hogback Ridge Park, part of the Lake Metroparks system. This captivating destination offers a unique blend of natural splendor and man-made marvels, including a massive timber staircase that winds its way down to the flood plane, an accessible 1,300-foot boardwalk, and an overlook deck in addition to the gravel trails through a variety of habitats and terrain.
As you traverse the park, prepare to be mesmerized by stunning panoramas of rich green hemlock ridges, lush hardwood forests, and the picturesque floodplain of the Mill Creek and Grand River, dotted with shimmering small waterfalls. While the park is renowned for its magnificent display of wildflowers in spring, which can be best appreciated from late March to the end of May, I find its winter charm to be absolutely mesmerizing.
What To Do at Hogback Ridge Park
Hogback Ridge Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and offers a variety of activities for all seasons. Whether you’re a seasoned biker, a cross-country skier or snowshoer, a fishing enthusiast, a geocacher, or a hiker, there’s something for everyone at this park.
What made me want to visit?
From the moment I laid eyes on the video clip shared by Lake Metropark’s social media account, I was hooked. The stunning winter wonderland captured on screen was a unique view in Northeast Ohio – towering hemlock trees adorned with vibrant, eye-catching green foliage, set against a backdrop of pure white snow. I knew in an instant that I had to experience this magical place for myself.
As we made our way to the park, I felt a sense of anticipation and excitement building within me. And when we finally arrived, I was not disappointed. The pops of green in the snow were even more striking in person, making this space truly stand out from the typical winter scenery of barren, brown trees.
This was a visit I’ll never forget – a true feast for the senses and an experience that left me feeling inspired and invigorated. If you’re looking for a truly unique and unforgettable winter escape, I highly recommend making your way to Lake Metroparks. Trust me – you won’t regret it!
I’m hoping to hike at Hogback Ridge Park during the spring to see the wildflower bloom!
Hogback Ridge Park Trails
Bike Trail
Rating: Moderate
Length: 2.02 Miles
Description: Natural surface for hiking and biking.
Bluebell Valley Path
This is one of the trails we took.
Rating: Moderate
Length: 1.19 Miles
Description: This loop trail is suitable for hiking and biking, and has a natural surface. To access the trail, you need to take the Hemlock Ridge Loop Trail and descend the steps to the floodplain. From there, the trail follows Mill Creek. If you turn left (to the northwest), the trail will lead you to a point where it ends. If you turn right, the trail will take you to the Meadow Rim Trail. By following this trail, you can complete a loop that will bring you back to the Hemlock Ridge Trail.
Grand River Trail
Rating: Moderate
Length: .75 Mile
Description: This trail begins at the north entrance and is a straight trail with a natural surface that’s ideal for hiking and biking. It will take you to some great views of the Grand River.
Hemlock Ridge Loop Trail
This is one of the trails we took.
Rating: Easy
Length: .62 Mile
Description: This loop trail is designed for hiking and biking, and features compacted gravel, a boardwalk, and stairs. You can access the trail from two points at the Emerson Road parking lot. If you take the left entrance, you’ll follow the Hemlock tree trail downhill until you reach the stairs that lead to the floodplain. Alternatively, if you use the other entrance across from the bathroom and map sign, you’ll start on a wooden boardwalk that will lead you to the steps down to the floodplain.
Meadow Rim Trail
Rating: Easy
Length: .67 Mile
Description: Compacted gravel for hiking and biking.
Old Emerson Road Trail
Rating: Moderate
Length: .29 Mile
Description: Compacted Gravel for hiking and biking.
Park Details
Website: View the official page here.
Location: This park is roughly 45-50 minutes East of Downtown, Cleveland.
4700 Emerson Road, Madison Township, Ohio 44057
North entrance: 7300 Warner Road, Madison Township, Ohio 44057
Hours: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Amenities: Hogback Ridge Park is a 629-acre park with a variety of amenities to make your visit comfortable and enjoyable. Find picnic areas and shelters, pit restrooms, accessible facilities, grills, and hiking trails.
You may also like:
- The Most Amazing Ohio Hike at Nelson Ledges: Photos + Tips
- Cuyahoga Valley National Park Travel Guide
- 5 Amazing Cleveland Metroparks You Need to Visit (Plus, What To Do & See At Each)
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