Big Creek Reservation–Lake Isaac

Ohio Birding Day Hike
Big Creek Reservation Trails

About Lake Isaac
Classified as a glacial pothole created thousands of years ago, the lake can attract migrant waterfowl and shorebirds. A hiking trail follows the northern side of the lake and passes through marshes, a floodplain, pine plantation, woodlands, and an orchard. The surrounding land is a wildlife sanctuary and home to foxes, mink, deer, opossum, and countless other animals. It is one of the most active wildlife corridors in Cuyahoga County.

To reach Lake Isaac, exit I-71 south of Cleveland at Bagley Road and proceed west for about .1 mile to Engle Road (OH-291). Turn left on Engle; it ends at Fowles Road in about .5 miles. Turn left on Fowles and take the immediate right onto Big Creek Parkway. The parking area for the lake will be very shortly on your right.

About Big Creek Reservation
A major component of Big Creek Reservation is Big Creek Parkway, a refreshing alternative to the standard suburban commuter routes to Cleveland. The reservation runs parallel to Pearl Road from Valley Parkway to Brookpark Road and is located in Brooklyn, Parma, Parma Heights, Middleburg Heights, and Strongsville.

Undoubtedly the highlight of the reservation is Lake Isaac. Classified as a “glacial pothole” created thousands of years ago, the lake is a waterfowl refuge, especially for migrant waterfowl. A hiking trail follows the northern side of the lake and passes through marshes, a floodplain, pine plantation, woodlands, and an orchard. The surrounding land is a wildlife sanctuary and home to foxes, mink, deer, opossum, and countless other animals. It is one of the most active wildlife corridors in Cuyahoga County.
From Big Creek Reservation webpage

Restrooms at locations identified on Big Creek Reservation map.