Say No To Hiking: 5 Cleveland Walking Trails For A More Chill Experience With Nature

CLEVELAND, OH — Hiking isn't everyone's cup of tea, but that doesn't mean you can't still breathe in the fresh air of nature.

Whether for exercise, socialization or just to see Cleveland's beauty, take advantage of the many trails around the CLE that don't require high-intensity exercise.

We rounded up the best walking trails in Cleveland that are picturesque, interesting and moderate at most. Lace up those shoes!

Cleveland Cultural Gardens Trail is the city's not-so-hidden gem. This is perfect for walking because the trail is at least five feet wide most of the way, and it is a paved trail of sorts — the surface switches from asphalt, brick and cement. The trail, as is its name, wanders through the beautiful Cleveland Cultural Gardens, so be sure to stop at the different countries along the way to admire the individual areas. The trail ends at the large pond and fountain. Dogs are welcome and can even be off leash at times.

Brandywine Falls Loop Trail gives you bang for your buck. This one isn't really about the walking as much as the spectacular 60-foot Brandywine Falls. The trail is only 1.4 miles, but it does pack more of a moderate difficulty. The goal of the trail is so worth the extra effort, though. It leads you down to the middle of the falls — just follow signs for Brandywine Falls if there is any confusion. Once you are done marveling at one of Cuyahoga Valley National Park's most gorgeous sites, the trail continues down to the creek (warning — you will have to cross) and finishes.

If you are looking for a "choose your own adventure" trail, then Brecksville Reservation All Purpose Trail is calling your name. The trail is asphalt, so it is a nice surface for long-distance walking, which is great since the trail is 12.4 miles. Multiple delineated smaller sections exist within the larger trail that are known for various highlights, such as the sections that wind through the "heavily wooded Brecksville Reservation, an emerald jewel in northern Ohio which sprawls more than 3,000 acres." The trail also forks at times and then connects again, so the individual route you choose to take is truly up to you. Be aware, though, when selecting a plan, some sections have more ups and downs with hills that are a more difficult intensity than others.

Gorgeous views are straight ahead at the Cleveland Lakefront Nature Preserve, which is a less crowded route, depending on the time of day. This is a loop that isn't too difficult and is less than three miles, but it has major payoff in views. While the downtown Cleveland views are nice, people report that the lake is stunning from this trail. Another option is the outer trail, which is about one and a half miles. No dogs allowed here — but, it is a hotspot for birdwatching.

If you'd like to enjoy your walk without leaving the city, The Cleveland Lakefront Bikeway Loop is the place to go to enjoy the non-stop city and lake views as well as the proximity to Edgewater Live, food trucks and the beach during warmer months. While the name might seem to suggest that you can only bike on the Cleveland Lakefront Bikeway, you are all clear for a nice walk around the perimeter of the park on this wide, paved surface. Pups welcome, and they can even be off-leash in certain places.

READ MORE:

• Memorial Day Weekend: 10 Ways To Have Fun In Cleveland Area This Week
• Live Off The Grid With Your Own Little Farm For $275K In Minerva
• Last-Minute Summer Camps: Best Cleveland Options For 2022