In need of quick refreshment and renewal? The Ledges Trail is literally moments off State Route 8. If you've never explored northeastern Ohio, this is "must-do" trail. Characterized by an environment found in Canada, yellow birch trees and eastern hemlocks carry you into another world where huge Sharon Conglomerate stone cliffs, fern covered ledges, and cool dripping springs envelope the senses. A special feature along the trail includes the Ice Box Cave where temperatures dip at least 20 degrees. Several resting benches offer a chance to enjoy the splendid, refreshing microclimate that is also enjoyed by the seldom seen but often heard Scarlet Tanagers. Other woodland birds spotted at The Ledges include wood thrushes, pileated woodpeckers, flycatchers, and warblers.

Several notes: The trail begins just beyond The Ledges picnic shelter along a wide service road that is very visible and impossible to miss. A word of caution - the stone steps can be slippery when wet. Trail signs along the path direct hikers to the Octagon Shelter, Haskell Run Trail and Happy Days Visitor Center.

Directions: From Peninsula, OH, Travel south along Akron Peninsula Road about a mile turning left (east) onto Truxell / Kendall Park Road. Go about 1.5 miles to reach Octagon Picnic Area and another quarter mile to reach The Ledges.

Elevation: 850 feet

Elevation Gain: 105 feet

Distance: 2.2 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Visitor Information