A Sunny Hike at West Creek Reservation in Parma

There’s nothing quite like a brisk hike in sub-zero temperatures on a beautiful sunny day. Today, January 15, 2025, was one of those perfect days—clear skies, bright sunshine, and the winds much calmer than they’ve been lately. The park was practically empty—just a few of us nature-loving souls out to soak up some fresh air.

We’re so fortunate to have the Cleveland Metroparks. I live just a two-minute drive from this incredible reservation, home to the Skyline Trail. The trail leads up to a hilltop with a stunning view of downtown Cleveland—a true gem. There’s also a picturesque creek, a cozy lodge, well-maintained trails, a spacious parking lot, and an overall sense of care and cleanliness that’s truly impressive. The park staff does an incredible job keeping it all in top shape.

Today’s hike was a great one—fast and invigorating. I completed all three loops in about 35 minutes at a brisk pace. Along the way, I crossed paths with just one other hiker heading up the hill as I was heading down. We exchanged a friendly greeting.

The view from the top was magnificent today. The massive clouds over Lake Erie almost looked like towering mountains behind the Cleveland skyline—a breathtaking sight.