TOP 10 Best Hiking trails near water in Lorain, Ohio

Lorain County Metro Parks is a popular tourist attraction located at 12882 Diagonal Road in LaGrange, Ohio, United States. This park district boasts 28 diverse reservations and over 110 miles of trails for visitors to explore and enjoy. Established in 1957 under Ohio's Park District Law, the Lorain County Metro Parks has steadily grown to over 9,000 acres thanks to generous donations from individuals and families like Dorothy Bacon DeMuth, the Burrell Family, Otto Schoepfle, and more. The Carlisle Visitor Center is a hub for information and activities within the park district, and visitors can contact them at (440) 458-5121 for more information. Whether you're looking to hike, picnic, or simply enjoy the beauty of nature, Lorain County Metro Parks has something for everyone.

Miller Nature Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 2739 Center Road in Avon, Ohio. Situated on 145 acres of woodlands, this preserve offers a visitor center with a café, gift shop, and event hall. The highlight of the preserve is the 5,000 sq. foot Conservatory, the first of its kind in Lorain County. Visitors can explore the indoor oasis featuring plant specimens from all over the world, including orchids, bonsai, succulents, ferns, and more. In addition to the Conservatory, Miller Nature Preserve boasts outdoor gardens, a Butterfly House, and wooded hiking trails. The park offers two walking paths that provide scenic views of wildlife and French Creek. Whether you're looking to relax in nature or capture the beauty with your camera, this preserve has something for everyone.

Sandy Ridge Reservation is a 526-acre wetland and wildlife preserve located in North Ridgeville, Ohio. Established in 1999, this park has become a popular destination for birdwatchers in Lorain County. The Sandy Ridge Trail offers a 2-mile journey through the beautiful wetland areas, with a crushed stone loop trail that leads you along the dikes surrounding the preserve. An observation mound provides a bird's eye view of the marsh, while benches offer a peaceful spot to relax and take in the scenery. Please note that pets and bicycles are not allowed on certain trails to preserve the natural habitat. Originally a wetland that was drained and used for farmland, Sandy Ridge was restored and purchased by Lorain County Metro Parks in 1990. Visit Sandy Ridge Reservation for a peaceful escape into nature.

Vermilion River Reservation: Mill Hollow is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 51211 North Ridge Road in Vermilion, Ohio, United States. Spanning two areas separated by the Vermilion River, Mill Hollow and Bacon Woods, this park is ideal for family picnics and nature enthusiasts. Established in 1960, Mill Hollow was the very first Lorain County Metro Park and remains a beloved destination for residents. With over 3 miles of trails winding through meadows and forests, visitors can explore the diverse communities of plant and animal life in the river valley. The reservation features asphalt, crushed stone, and natural dirt trails, with a walking center to help guide hikers. The highlight of the reservation is the stunning shale cliffs carved by the Vermilion River, offering a glimpse into the area's geological history. Don't miss the opportunity to visit one of the most historic sites in Lorain County at Vermilion River Reservation: Mill Hollow.

Days Dam Waterfall is a picturesque park located at 3625 Tacoma Avenue in Lorain, Ohio, United States. This stunning natural attraction features a breathtaking waterfall cascading over rocky cliffs, creating a tranquil and serene atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. With lush greenery surrounding the area, visitors can take in the beauty of nature while relaxing by the soothing sound of the flowing water. Whether you're looking for a peaceful spot to unwind or a scenic location for a leisurely stroll, Days Dam Waterfall is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Wellington Reservation is a 541-acre park located at 535 Jones Road in Wellington, Ohio, United States. Established in 2005 through a collaboration between the Lorain County Metro Parks and the Village of Wellington, this park offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. The park features a beautiful Visitor’s Center overlooking the 21-plus-acre lake created by the Wellington South Reservoir. With over 4 miles of trails winding through grassland fields, wetland habitats, and around the South Reservoir, visitors can enjoy different perspectives of the park's diverse landscapes. The trail system includes surfaces of asphalt and crushed stone, making it accessible for various activities and skill levels.

Black River Reservation Days Dam is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 2720 East 31st Street in Lorain, Ohio, United States. The dam offers breathtaking views of the Black River and surrounding landscapes, making it a popular spot for visitors to relax and enjoy nature. With walking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for fishing and birdwatching, Black River Reservation Days Dam is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families looking to unwind in a peaceful setting. Come explore this hidden gem and experience the beauty of the Black River Reservation Days Dam for yourself.

Wellington Reservoir Park is a 541-acre park located at 535 Jones Road in Wellington, Ohio, United States. Established in 2005 through a partnership between the Lorain County Metro Parks and the Village of Wellington, this park offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. The park features a beautiful Visitor’s Center overlooking the 21-acre lake formed by the Wellington South Reservoir. Visitors can explore over 4 miles of trails that wind through grassland fields, wetland habitats, and around the South Reservoir. The loop trail system provides different perspectives of the park, including views of the lake from an elevated observation mound and glimpses of wildlife in the grassland prairies. The trails are surfaced with asphalt and crushed stone, making them accessible for all visitors.

Lakeside Landing is a charming park and tourist attraction located at 401 Lakeside Avenue in Lorain, Ohio, United States. Situated along the serene shores of Lake Erie, Lakeside Landing offers breathtaking views, tranquil walking paths, and a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're looking to relax by the water, explore the surrounding nature, or simply take in the beauty of the landscape, Lakeside Landing is the perfect destination for a peaceful and enjoyable day out.

Day’s Dam Falls is a picturesque park located at 2720 East 31st Street in Lorain, Ohio, United States. This tranquil oasis offers a stunning view of the cascading waterfall, making it a popular spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for bird watching. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or a fun day out with family and friends, Day’s Dam Falls is the perfect destination for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience in nature.

Pawlak Park is a charming and picturesque park located on West 14th Street in Lorain, Ohio, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with beautifully landscaped grounds, walking paths, and scenic views. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply relax and unwind in the tranquil surroundings of Pawlak Park. Whether you're a local looking for a peaceful retreat or a visitor exploring the sights of Lorain, Pawlak Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.