Rocky River Reservation--Valley Parkway Trail

Tips for Birding

Rocky River Reservation is a stop on the Lake Erie Birding Trail.

About this Location

There is parking on the south side of the Valley Parkway at the intersection with Hogsback Lane. The Valley Parkway Trail parallels the Valley Parkway in this area.

About Rocky River Reservation

See all hotspots at Rocky River Reservation

Rocky River Reservation is located in Berea, Brook Park, Cleveland, Fairview Park, Lakewood, North Olmsted, Olmsted Township, and Rocky River. The first land purchased for Cleveland Metroparks can be seen from the Stinchcomb-Groth Memorial.

The character of the reservation is strongly influenced by the Rocky River. Massive shale cliffs rise above the willows, sycamores, and cottonwoods, and many trails wind through the valley’s deep floodplain forests, meadows, and wildflowers. Wildlife is common in the valley and visitors can expect to see numerous bird species and some common Ohio mammals year-round, including the white-tailed deer. Visit Rocky River Nature Center to learn more. The reservation includes three golf courses: Big Met, Little Met, and Mastick Woods.

The Rocky River Valley was settled early in this area’s history and reflects many of the sights common to the first settlers. Frostville Museum, an affiliate of Cleveland Metroparks, illustrates how the 1800s settlers lived and worked in the Rocky River Valley.

Features

  • Wheelchair accessible trail

  • Restrooms on site

  • Entrance fee

  • Roadside viewing

Content from Rocky River Reservation Official Website