Experience the Grandness of the Grand

You might not know just how grand the Grand River is if you haven’t been to Lake Metroparks’ River Jamboree! The Grand River represents one of the finest examples of a natural stream found anywhere in Ohio. Mainly due to the rugged surroundings and minimal impact from urbanization and development, the Grand River became the second river to be designated Wild and Scenic by the Ohio Scenic Rivers Program.

The Grand River runs 103 miles passing through five counties in Northeast Ohio. The headwaters start in Geauga and Portage counties, then flow northeast through Trumbull and Ashtabula counties before taking a 90 degree turn into Lake County. Once in Lake County, the Grand runs 26 miles to its mouth in Fairport Harbor. The river borders 12 Lake Metroparks, which protects 30 percent of the river shoreline.

The Grand River has the most aquatic diversity of any Ohio Lake Erie tributary due to the slower moving waters and neighboring wetlands. These wetlands provide fantastic habitat for countless wildlife species including river otters, which have made a comeback after their reintroduction by the Division of Wildlife in 1986. Eagles and ospreys can be seen flying overhead and on warm days northern map turtles and spiny softshell turtles bask along the river bank. There are 87 fish species in the Grand, including longnose gar, smallmouth bass and rainbow darters. Additionally, the river is home to an impressive 22 species of freshwater mussels, the most endangered animals in North America.

River Jamboree

Hidden Valley Park

July 12 • 1 to 4 pm

FREE • Registration requested

This year’s River Jamboree allows you to “get wet with nets.” Take the time to try out several different types of nets to find insects, fish, snakes and more. Bring family and friends to jump in and experience the remarkable Grand River with us on Sunday, July 12 at Hidden Valley Park in Madison. Lake Metroparks naturalists and local conservation groups will be on hand with fun activities for the whole family.

The River Jamboree is a free event. Registration is requested and can be made online or by calling 440-358-7275.

Article by Trevor Wearstler, Interpretive Naturalist

Top 5 color hikes in Lake Metroparks

 

Hiking is one of the most popular forms of outdoor leisure—surveys suggest that one in three Americans rate it as one of their three favorite forms of outdoor recreation. Hiking combines several pursuits—interests in scenery, wildlife, discovery and solitude—all in a low-impact form of healthy activity.

Lake Metroparks has more than 50 miles of trails spanning Lake County. These trails provide countless opportunities for walkers to enjoy the beautiful fall scenery. Get out and soak up the beauty while it lasts!

Chapin Forest Reservation
Lucky Stone Loop Trail to the scenic overlook at the historic Sperry Quarry


With a panoramic view of everything from Lake Erie to the Cleveland skyline, the view of fall colors may be the best in Lake Metroparks. Best accessed via the Rt. 306 entrance.

Indian Point Park
Lookout Ridge Trail
This trail takes you to a spectacular view over the Grand River. The forested hillside comes alive with colorful leaves. Best accessed via the upper parking lot. 

Hell Hollow Wilderness Area
 Beechridge Loop Trail
Standing on top of a 200-foot cliff, a breathtaking view of hills and valleys stretches out before you.




Hogback Ridge Park 
Hemlock Ridge Loop Trail
From the start of the loop to the finish, fall colors will surround and envelop you. Access via the main entrance (south).
  



Hidden Valley Park
River Breeze Trail 
This riverside trail has excellent views of the forested hillside and the display of colors never ends along the entire half-mile trail. Access via the south entrance.


Click here for complete list of trail maps available to download.

Have you ever seen a Queen snake?

Queen snake

The Queen snake is a small, harmless snake that lives along rocky ponds and rivers, including the Grand River in Lake County.  They have the most specialized diet of any snake in Ohio, eating only crayfish.  These have become uncommon in Ohio, and they are protected as a Species of Concern. 

River Jamboree

Hidden Valley Park

Sunday, July 14 • 1 to 4 pm

To learn more about Queen snakes and the other reptiles and amphibians that live in the Grand River, swim, hop or slither down to the river at Lake Metroparks' annual River Jamboree. This year we will get up-close and personal with some of the Grand River’s more intimidating creatures: snakes, turtles, frogs and salamanders.

Head down to the river to look for

• Northern Water Snake
• Snapping Turtle
• Green Frog
• Bullfrog
• Pickerel Frog

Other activities:

• Live reptile and amphibians on display
• Get your feet wet on a guided search to find wild snakes, frogs and more
• Reptile and amphibian related games and activities
• Receive a FREE reptile or amphibian guide
• FREE Public Access of Waterways (Rivers edition) 
• Ohio Department of Natural Resources

Admission

Admission is free. Pre-registration is required. 

Cick here to register online or call registration at 

440-358-7275 or 800-669-9226.

2012 Picnic Shelter Reservations begin Monday, December 5 for Lake County residents

Lake County residents may register for picnic shelter reservations for 2012 beginning at 8:00 a.m. on Monday, December 5.  Reserve your shelter online or by calling the Lake Metroparks Registration Department at 440-358-7275 or 800-669-9226.  Reservations from Lake County residents received by phone, mail, and in person at the Lake Metroparks Registration Office will also be processed on December 5.  Out-of-county residents may begin reserving shelters beginning at 8:00 a.m. on Monday, December 12.

 

A new shelter available to reserve in 2012 is at the new Gully Brook Park in Willoughby Hills.  The shelter overlooks a beautiful brook and is located next to the trail.  An elaborate playground is located nearby.  New playground equipment was also installed this year near the shelter at Hidden Valley Park.    All shelters provide picnic tables, grills, restrooms, and other amenities and are great for family reunions or other special gatherings.   Some of the shelters include power, nearby trails, playground equipment, and volleyball courts for additional fun. For a complete listing of the shelters and their amenities, click here. 

For Lake County residents wishing to reserve a picnic shelter, a $50 refundable deposit (payable by credit card, check or cash in person/phone and via credit card online) is required at the time of reservation.  Residents living outside Lake County pay a $25 non-refundable rental fee in addition to the $50 refundable deposit.  Payment can be made in person, or mailed to Lake Metroparks Registration Department, 11211 Spear Road, Concord Township, Ohio 44077.   For more information, call the Lake Metroparks Registration Department at (440) 358-7275 or 1-800-669-9226.  The office is open 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday.