Our family decided we needed a change of scenery for hike 24 and 25, so we headed up to Geneva State Park that boards Lake Erie to take in some water and beach views. Typically, when we think of hiking in Ohio, beach and water views is not something top of mind and totally confused our kids about where we were! Wait, there are beaches and is this an ocean? If this is a lake, why can’t we see the other side? It must be an ocean! So many questions! This part of the state is a three-hour drive for our family, so we decided to camp at the State Park to be able to explore and spend more time on our hikes. We knew that if there was water and a beach, we would need more time and didn’t want to feel rushed once we got there. 

Hike #24- Geneva State Park

Trails Hiked:

Orange – Paved Hiking and Biking Trail. We specifically picked this trail because it was close to the beach and was paved. It was the first official hike for our new hiking companion Bo (4 Months Old) and wanted to start out on something easy and where we could backtrack if needed.  

Mileage:

Altogether we maybe made it about .5 of a mile. We took a detour to the beach and realized the path actually went behind the bathhouse and not on the beach. Opps! I think we just really wanted to end up by the water! We did make it back on the path and took it around to the marina and then circled back to the parking lot.

Weather and Trail Conditions:

When we were there it was in the mid 70’s and bright sunshine. It was about 10am in the morning and wanted to get the hike in before it was too hot.

Wildlife Seen:

Nothing seen today.

Parking:

Many places to park near this trail! If you were staying at the lodge or the campgrounds, this trail is accessible to those locations as well as closer parking lots near the beach.

Restrooms:

Near the beach entrance there was a bathhouse and outside showers/foot washes.

Nature Center and Activities:

The beach, swimming and watching the sunset! 

Let's Go:  

Hike #24- Lake Erie Bluffs

About 15 minutes from the State Park was another area that we had to explore, Lake Erie Bluffs park of the Lake Metro Parks. Once we saw that there was an observation tower and access to a beach, we were sold!

Trails Hiked:

Parts of the Eagle View Loop and Shoreline Trail.

Mileage:

Around .5 of a mile. Lessons learned, we do not get very far when the trail is on the beach!

Weather and Trail Conditions:

Mid 70’s and Sunny! The Eagle View loop was a paved path that lead down to Shoreline. No hiking boots today! Shoes that can get wet and sandy is a must! 

Wildlife Seen:

Nothing seen today. Although, we read that this is a great place for birding.

Parking:

There is parking at both end of the park. We parked near the Observation tower.

Restrooms:

Both parking lots had restrooms, however they did not have running water.

Nature Center and Activities:

The Beach and observation tower!!

Let's Go: