The Deer Lick Cave Loop Trail is an almost 4-mile hiking trail that loops through the Cleveland Metroparks Brecksville Reservation. Hikers can enjoy the scenic wooded trail with rolling hills, a deer lick cave, and a low-flow waterfall.
Deer Lick Cave Hiking Trail
While there are several places you can use to access the trail, we recommend either parking at the Brecksville Nature Center or at Deer Lick Creek Trailhead. There are pros and cons to each location. Use the instructions below to determine which spot is best for your trip.
Starting at Brecksville Nature Center
Use this spot if you plan to hike the full four miles. There is plenty of parking and you can stop into the nature center before you start to talk with the naturalist to get updates on the trail conditions.
Helpful Tip: Because several trails start/end at the nature center, make sure to look at the trail map to familiarize yourself with the trail and the trail markers. That way you ensure you take the correct trail as you begin your hike.
It’s a loop trail and you can choose to walk either clockwise or counterclockwise. Whatever way you go, you’ll enjoy a scenic hike through the woods and will encounter Deer Lick Cave and the low-flow waterfall about halfway through the 4-mile hike.
Starting at Deer Lick Cave Trailhead
You can also begin the hike at the Deer Lick Cave Trailhead which is located on Valley Parkway. There are several small parking areas along the road. By starting at this point, you can choose to hike the full four miles, or you can skip the hike and simply visit the cave and low-flow waterfall which are located approximately 200 yards from the trailhead.
Helpful Tip: The trail markings in this area were a little confusing. We could easily find the cave, but as we began to hike the trail we got turned around. Keep an eye out for the blue markers painted on the trees. Then you shouldn’t have to backtrack like we did.
Whichever starting point you choose, you’ll enjoy the secluded trail that offers a scenic look at the area.
Tips for Your Visit to Deer Lick Cave Hiking Trail
- The trail has uneven terrain and some stairs. If you have young children you won’t be able to use a stroller.
- Trails are entirely in the woods, we’ve never had issues with mosquitos, but it’s always a good idea to bring along bug spray just in case.
- Because of the terrain, make sure to wear sturdy shoes. Hiking boots are preferred. The rocks can get slippery when wet or during the fall when leaves are on them.
- Dogs are allowed on the trails. Make sure to keep them on a leash and remember to bring bags to clean up after them and a bowl of water for them to drink.
- The trail is completely shaded, so even on the hot summer days, it is a nice escape into nature.
- It’s a low-flow waterfall. This means that if the weather has been dry and it hasn’t rained in a while, there may be little to no water flowing.
- Stop by the Brecksville Nature Center to talk with a naturalist and tour the various educational exhibits.
- Because several trails start/end at the nature center, make sure to look at the trail map to familiarize yourself with the trail and the trail markers. That way you ensure you take the correct trail as you begin your hike. (Important if you start at the nature center)
- The trail markings near the cave are a little confusing. We could easily find the cave, but as we began to hike the trail we got turned around. Keep an eye out for the blue markers painted on the trees. Then you shouldn’t have to backtrack like we did.
Deer Lick Cave Trail at Cleveland Metroparks Brecksville Reservation
9000 Chippewa Rd, Brecksville, OH 44141
Off Valley Parkway about a mile from the intersection with Chippewa Creek Dr.
Website
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