Is it like 30 degrees? Sure. Is there snow everywhere? Probably. But when you're in The Land, that doesn't stop you. Winter in Cleveland is a time to experience a city that truly embraces the season. Whether racing down a 1,000-foot-long ice chute or taking a surf in 40-degree water, just know there’s so many things to do in Cleveland during the winter. Our outdoor adventures are worth the chill.
Snowshoeing
If you want an approachable place to start your winter adventures head to the Cleveland Metroparks and take your pick of renting snowshoes at the Big Met Golf Course in Rocky River (you can also rent cross-country skis here), the Hinckley Lake Boathouse & Store and the North Chagrin Nature Center. Snowshoeing and skiing are permitted on hiking, bridle and all-purpose trails (that have not been plowed), as well as the fairways and rough areas of Big Met, Shawnee Hills, Seneca and Sleepy Hollow golf courses with a four-inch snow base.
Cross-Country Skiing
Located east of Cleveland, The Lake Metroparks also offers cross-country skiing and snowshoeing at its Chapin Forest Reservation, Girdled Road Reservation and Shawnee Hills. If you're looking for a lightly groomed route we prefer Chapin Forest, but if you're looking for a challenge, Girdled Road is where you should visit. Ski and snowshoe rentals are available at the Pine Lodge Ski Center, and snowshoe rentals are available at the Penitentiary Glen Nature Center. All rental equipment is first-come, first-served so make sure you check the Winter Sports Hotline for the conditions early and get out the door quick.
Tobogganing
This winter experience the thrill of tobogganing at The Chalet in Mill Stream Run Reservation in Strongsville. The two 700-foot-long refrigerated ice chutes operate with or without snow, weather permitting. Reservations are required and please be sure to check additional safety restrictions in advance.
Sledding
It’s called sledding, although some people around here would have you believe it's “sled riding.” Either way, grab the closest makeshift garbage can lid sled (or purchase one, I guess) and hit the slopes. Some of the best sledding can be found in the Cleveland Metroparks spread throughout their reservations. Hang on tight because these hills go from beginner bunny to steep, reckless teenager really quick. Family favorites include Thornton Park, Memphis Hill, State Road Sledding Hill at Hinckley Reservation and off Hobart Road at Chapin Forest Reservation.
Skiing/Snowboarding/Tubing
Boston Mills/Brandywine Ski Resorts offer two resorts for the price of one. Standing as Ohio’s largest ski resort, Boston Mills/Brandywine boasts 18 trails, 15 lifts, 88 skiable acres and three terrain parks with snow tubing, skiing, snowboarding, snowblading and 100 percent snow coverage.
Brandywine Ski Resort is also home to the area's largest tubing park, Polar Blast Tubing. Spend two-hour sessions speeding down the super lanes with ample time for hot cocoa breaks.
Lake Erie Surfing
Surfing? In Cleveland? Yes. Althought it isn't a beginner activity, the Lake Erie waves are calling those who can handle 40-degree water temps paired with subzero outdoor conditions. Most of us would be running for the fireplace at those kind of temps — but this is Cleveland we are talking about. The midwest grit can take on any and all weather conditions mother nature throws at us. The most happening surf spot being Edgewater Beach. Please don't hop in Lake Erie with no info on how it’s done, hit up a surf group like Lake Erie Surf Club for more information on how to ride the waves safely.
Winter Hiking
Step up and step out on the hiking trails this winter. Breathe some crisp air, stretch your lungs and maybe even feel a little winter sun on your face. Visit thousands of miles of classic trails at Cleveland Metroparks, Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Lake Metroparks, Summit Metro Parks and Mill Creek Metroparks. From farmland and forest to coastline and urban spaces, Northeast Ohio hiking has something for everyone, including paved and accessible trails. Be sure to check trail websites for snow closures beforehand. Check out more winter hikes in Cleveland here.
Snow Biking
Fat bikes (aka snow bikes) use monster truck-like tires to get traction over snow and they ride like a regular mountain bike. Take your soul on a cycle outside even in the winter months. Clevelanders say their favorite trails can be found at the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio & Erie Canalway Towpath Trail, Bike & Hike Trail at Walton Hills or Cleveland MetroParks Royalview Trail.
Ice Fishing
Love fishing? Then don’t let the winter weather stop you now. Ice fishing for perch and walleye on Lake Erie is a unique way to experience the winter in Cleveland. For those looking to ice fish largemouth bass, set up shack at Wallace Lake, Beyer’s Pond or Hinckley Lake — all a part of the Cleveland Metroparks.
Steelhead Fishing
While fall is traditionally known as the time for steelhead fishing, the inland ponds, Lake Erie tributaries and rivers throughout The Land provide some pretty sweet opportunities for anglers to pursue steelhead trout, panfish and stocked trout until about late spring. You just have to be ready for a little chill in the air … and water. For more information, check out the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and the Clear Fork River Chapter of Trout Unlimited.