The colder temperatures have blown in and turned Northeast Ohio into a winter wonderland. Though it may be a little chilly, the bright sun and blue skies create the perfect conditions for a relaxing hike through one of our many trails. Discover the beauty of Northeast Ohio in the winter with a hike at one of these area trails.

Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park

12440 OH-282, Garrettsville, OH 44231

Where does one go on a hike in the winter? The Devil's Icebox, of course! You'll find this rock formation as well as the Old Maid's Kitchen and Indian Pass within the Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park. There are four unique trails: the Red Trail is a half-mile, the Blue and Yellow Trails are three-quarters of a mile, and the White Trail is one-mile. Since many of these rock formations were made by receding glaciers, we can't think of a better time of the year to explore Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park than in the heart of winter.

Blue Hen Falls

2001 Boston Mills Rd., Brecksville, OH 44141

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If you're searching for a wonderful place to hike, there are few outside Cleveland better than the Cuyahoga Valley. Of its many trails, a hike to Blue Hen Falls is one of the best family winter hikes that you can take. This three-mile trek should take about two hours. You'll first follow the Buckeye Trail then head across Boston Mills Road before venturing half-mile downhill to reach Blue Hen Falls. This 15-foot waterfall is quite a sight, especially in the winter, so be sure to bring your camera.

South Chagrin Reservation

37374 Miles Rd., Bentleyville, OH 44022

Explore more of the Buckeye Trail in the South Chagrin Reservation. Located along the Chagrin River, the South Chagrin Reservation is a lovely place for a hike. What we love about this area is that it's full of both natural and manmade wonders. Henry Rock Church, for instance, was carved way back in the 1880s, while Lookout Lodge was constructed in the late 1930s. With opportunities to hike, sled, fish, and explore the natural, historical, and cultural elements of the area, South Chagrin Reservation deserves a spot on your winter hiking itinerary.

Rocky River Reservation

24000 Valley Parkway, North Olmsted, OH 44070

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Bird-watchers and wildlife viewers will enjoy a winter hike through the Rocky River Reservation. A walk to the Berea Falls overlook is a must, as well as a stop with your toboggan at Barrett Sledding Hill. As you wind through the trails throughout the reservation, keep an eye out for Ohio's local wildlife, including the stunning white-tailed deer.

Mill Creek Park

Youngstown, OH 44509

Mill Creek Park is the ultimate destination for outdoor winter fun. It's the largest of all the MetroParks and features 45-miles of trails where you can sled, cross-country ski, and hike. We suggest taking a stroll over by Lake Glacier where you can easily access the East Glacier Trail and Old Tree Trail. If you want a super-quick hike, the Lily Pond Circle at Lily Pond is a better option. Lake Newport offers access to the West Newport Trail, Islands Trail, and West and East Channel trails, while Lake Cohasset provides access to the East and West Cohasset trails. With so many trails to hike, you can spend the entire winter exploring Mill Creek Park.

Munroe Falls Metro Park

521 S. River Rd., Munroe Falls, OH 44262

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Munroe Falls Metro Park offers two fantastic areas to explore during the winter. The Lake Area features the 2.2-mile Indian Spring Trail, which loops you through a stream, wetlands, and a hill perfect for sledding. The Tallmadge Meadows Area is perfect for cross-country skiing and features two trails. The shorter Meadow Loop Trail is only 0.35-miles and is accessible for wheelchairs, strollers, and canes/walkers. The longer Meadow Trail is two-miles long and gives you a glimpse at wildlife in the meadow.

Deep Lock Quarry Metro Park

5779 Riverview Rd., Peninsula, OH 44264

Grab your camera and get ready to snap photos of amazing vistas along the Quarry Trail in Deep Lock Quarry Metro Park. This 1.4-mile moderate trail isn't too strenuous and will lead you to the Erie & Ohio Canal's deepest lock. As you walk, you'll pass millstones and have the opportunity to spot amazing views of the Cuyahoga River.

Euclid Creek Reservation

850 Euclid Creek Parkway, Cleveland, OH 44121

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Though the Euclid Creek Reservation is a popular summertime picnic and exercise spot, it's also a wonderful place for a winter hike. There are four trails leading through the area, ranging from 1.1 to 2.5 miles. Each will take you through diverse landscapes like Bluestone quarries, Euclid Beach, and the Wildwood Marina. If you're searching for a little more fun to add to your hike, grab your sled and ride down the hill at the Kelley Picnic Area.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm

1828 Smith Rd., Akron, OH 44313

The F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm invites you to take a hike or enjoy the view this winter. Three basic trails wind through the area. The half-mile Cherry Lane Trail is a loop that leads to an amazing suspension bridge. The Fernwood Loop trail is nearly a mile in length and connects to the Cherry Lane Trail. For a slightly longer walk, the Seneca Trail is a mildly challenging unpaved loop that takes you deep into the forest. When you're finished with your hike, you can warm up at the Seneca deck fireplace.

Winter Wonderland

Where's your favorite place to take a whimsical winter hike around Northeast Ohio? Let us know in the comments!