Brecksville Reservation

Reservation hours are 6:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m. Brecksville Nature Center is generally open daily 9:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. except listed holidays.

Free lots are distributed among the Nature Center, picnic areas, golf courses and trailheads. Pick a named destination before entering.

Start at Brecksville Nature Center for orientation and family facilities; use separate trailheads for Deer Lick Cave, Chippewa Gorge and longer Buckeye Trail walks.

Restrooms are available at staffed facilities and selected picnic areas, but not along most natural trails.

Reservation, trails, nature center and ordinary picnic use are free. Golf, reservations and programs may cost.

The Nature Center and developed picnic areas provide accessible options; gorge routes, caves and natural trails include roots, rocks, slopes and stream crossings.

Leashed dogs are welcome in ordinary outdoor areas; protect sensitive plants and follow posted building and trail restrictions.

The Nature Center and Andrews Nature Play Area are the easiest family anchors. Choose short loops before attempting gorge or Buckeye Trail routes.

Driving is generally the practical way to reach this large reservation; facilities are widely separated.

Download the current trail map and check alerts before hiking. Seven gorges and changing creek conditions make distance and difficulty easy to underestimate.

Check current Cleveland-area weather and operator alerts. Lake Erie wind and waves, heat, snow, ice and storms can close water access, paths or facilities independently.