Rules and Regulations

Join forces with the Ranger Department by observing all Cleveland Metroparks rules and regulations. Some of those rules include:

  • Damaging, disturbing or removing any part of the Park District, including plants,tree limbs, rocks and leaves, is prohibited.

     

  • Alcoholic beverages may not be consumed or transported in the Park District, except with a permit.

     

  • Camping, climbing or rappelling are permitted in designated areas and by permit only.

     

  • Horseback riders must remain on designated bridle trails.

     

  • Sledding, skiing and ice skating are permitted only in designated areas.

     

  • Bicycles may only be operated on roadways and paved all purpose trails. Riders must obey the same traffic regulations as motor vehicles.

     

  • No vehicle propelled by animal or human power may be operated on bridle or foot trails.

     

  • Dogs and cats may accompany their owners in the Park District; however, pets must be controlled on a leash not more than eight feet long and all excrement must be placed in a litter receptacle.

     

  • Feeding wildlife is prohibited. Releasing domestic or wild animals in the Park District is prohibited.

     

  • Hunting, trapping or killing any animals within the Park District are prohibited.

     

  • Fishing is permitted in all Park District waters unless posted otherwise. Traps, spears or gigs, bows and arrows, and hooks left unattended are prohibited. Ice fishing is permitted when indicated by postings.

 

TRAIL COURTESY AND RULES

With hundreds of miles of paved and unpaved trails, Cleveland Metroparks is a great place to enjoy nature and recreation.

The trails are used for many diverse activities, including biking, jogging, hiking, and horseback riding. Since Cleveland Metroparks has more than 40 million visitors each year, share the trails and be courteous to others.

All Purpose Trails

  • Cleveland Metroparks provides over 60 miles of paved all purpose trails (APT) for cycling, walking, running and in-line skating.

     

  • Motorized vehicles are prohibited on all purpose trails.

     

  • Always stay to the right, which allows others to pass and prevents interference with oncoming traffic.

     

  • Bicyclists in Cleveland Metroparks must follow state equipment rules. Have a bell or other warning device on the bike. If riding during dusk or dawn, have a headlight and proper reflectors.

     

  • Bicyclists and in-line skaters should alert others with a bell or by voice when passing from behind.

     

  • Bicyclists and in-line skaters should control their speed and maintain a safe distance.

     

  • Park visitors are allowed to walk their dogs or cats on all purpose trails. Pets must be on a leash, and owners must remove any animal waste.

     

  • No motorized vehicles are allowed on all purpose trails.

 

Bridle Trails

  • Nearly 82 miles of trails are available for equestrain use.

     

  • Bicycle riding is strictly prohibited on all Cleveland Metroparks bridle trails.

     

  • Hikers are permitted on bridle trails, but must yield to horse riders.

     

  • Horse riders must only use designated bridle trails. Straying from the trail or creating new paths is strictly prohibited.

 

Other Trail Information

  • Hiking trails are located in every Cleveland Metroparks reservation.

     

  • Physical fitness trails are located in Bedford, Big Creek, Brecksville, Euclid Creek, Mill Stream Run, North Chagrin, Rocky River, and South Chagrin reservations.

     

  • If unsure of the specific purpose of a trail, check for posted signs explaining its use or call (216) 635-3200.

     

  • During winter, cross-country skiing is allowed in designated areas. Call (216) 635-3200 for locations.

     

  • Bicyclists are permitted to use Cleveland Metroparks parkways and roads. They must ride single file and follow motor vehicle traffic laws.

Click here for the Trail Courtesy and Rules brochure. A complete booklet of Cleveland Metroparks Rules and Regulations is available at local libraries and Ranger headquarters. For additional information on Park District rules or for non-emergency inquiries, call (440) 331-5530.