Dog walking in Maple Heights

Broadway Ave/ E 104th St

Garfield Park Reservation in nearby Garfield Park is a lovely spot to go for an on-lead walk with your dog and escape suburbia. This century-old park has been redeveloped to maintain the woodlands and wetlands, as well as incorporate facilities for visitors to enjoy. There are picnic areas, restrooms, grills, ample parking, shade structures and a drinking fountain at the Garfield Park Reservation. The trails offer picturesque views, birdwatching opportunities and historic stonework to look at. Take your camera for the photo-worthy stone bridge and seasonal waterfall. While you explore the park together, keep you pup on the lead and always pick up after him.

Walton Hills

For a great day out in the woods, you can’t go past Bedford Reservation in Walton Hills. Set around Tinkers Creek Gorge, this place has waterfalls, stunning forest and pristine picnic areas to enjoy. There are four trails to explore here with your dog. For serious hikers, the Buckeye Trail takes you 7.6 miles, the All Purpose Trail 5 miles, or the Sagamore Loop Trail 3.6 miles. This last one is more difficult, but rewards you with sights of two incredible waterfalls. Hikers wanting a shorter trip might like to try the Hemlock Loop Trail at 0.8 miles that takes you along Tinkers Creek and past several cascades. Your dog will love this area, and so will you, just keep him leashed so he doesn’t run into trouble.

Cuyahoga Heights

Bacci Park in Cleveland is a great place to get some fresh air with your pup. There are pavilions, a fishing pond, playground and walking trails to enjoy, which make for a lovely family day out. Running through Bacci Park is the Mill Creek Connector Trail that takes you over a bridge and offers fantastic views of the Mill Creek and Cuyahoga River valleys. If you fancy a longer trail walk, head across the street to access the Ohio & Erie Canal Trail and Towpath Trail. These multi-use trails follow a historic canal towpath and are a popular way to explore the area. Keep your pup on a lead while you enjoy your walk together, and remember to bring water for you both and some clean up bags.

Highland Hills

Highland Hills, northeast of Maple Heights, is the place to go for a pup-friendly meal out. In this neighbourhood, you will find Panera Bread for some delicious freshly-baked pastries, pies and cookies, as well as sandwiches, wraps and salads. Dibella’s Old Fashioned Subs is another option for a light lunch, serving up classic and made-to-order subs and a variety of sides to enjoy with your meal. If you are craving something a little spicy, Chipotle Mexican Grill is where you will find options such as burrito bowls, tacos, nachos, fajitas, and all of your other Mexican favourites. Dogs are welcome at all of these places alongside you at one of the outside tables.

Cannon Road

The Bridle Trail Loop in nearby Solon is a 2.4 mile loop trail in the South Chagrin Reservation where you can bring your pet for a walk through the forest and along the river. See if you can find some of the historic features along your travels, such as the outdoor sculpture known as Henry Church Rock, or the Look About Lodge, Quarry Rock, Polo Field or the old Boyscout Camp. There are restrooms at the Reservation, as well as grills and picnic tables for a packed lunch. Bring water for you both and keep your dog leashed at all times in this area.