When you mention the Patterson family in Geauga County, most people think of the fruit farm they have run for five generations in Chesterland. But did you know that they also built Orchard Hills Golf Course? In January 2007, the golf course ceased operations, but the family still wanted to preserve that portion of their land for the public to enjoy. With the help of the Western Reserve Land Company and Geauga Park District, the Pattersons were able to achieve their goal.
Quite a few restoration plans are in place (some have already been completed) for Orchard Hills Park. Conservation projects include the restoration of 1,500 linear feet of stream, three acres of wetlands, 50 acres of forest and 22 acres of meadow. The restoration has helped protect and preserve stream corridors and re-establish more natural and healthy functioning streams. The project has also improved the water quality and overall health of the surrounding habitats. Reforesting one former fairway per year began in 2010 will take at least 10 years to complete.
This park is home to several species of rare plants and animals. Here is a list of some of those rare species found here:
The trails total 3.6 miles, giving hikers of varying abilities different options. The Sedge, Cricket, and Harvest trails are all paved for easy access. The McIntosh Trail loops the perimeter of the trail network and has connecting links to reduce or extend the hiker’s trek. All trails are suitable for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing. As you enter Orchard Hills Park, a sled hill on the left that is sure to be quite active if there is snow on the ground. Also, the parking area offers a rare view of Lake Erie from Geauga County. Download a trail map and brochure here.
Orchard Hills offers several facilities for indoor/outdoor gatherings. The lodge is available by reservation or on a first come, first served basis. There is no running water in the lodge. Here are the Orchard Hills Lodge guidelines. Click here to reserve this lodge. Reservations are FREE to Geauga County residents, aside from heat fees during the winter months. Two open air shelters with outdoor fireplaces, electricity, and picnic tables are on the property as well.
This is one park I had never been to before. My boyfriend and I decided to check it out over the weekend. We will definitely visit it again when it gets a little warmer. The shelters here would be perfect for a family picnic and campfire. As a nice touch, the Pattersons still maintain the orchard, located directly behind the lodge, as part of their fruit farm.
We only walked as far as the fishing pond because it was pretty chilly. The whole time we were there, two red-tailed hawks we circling above surely looking for their next meal. I think we may have even seen an osprey flying near the entrance of the park but I was not able to get a photo. I can only imagine the wildlife we will see here in the spring when we can venture deeper into the park’s various habitats.
As we walked toward the pond, we came across this sign. Coyotes are becoming more and more common in the county. Some precautions should be taken if you are hiking in coyote habitat, especially if you are bringing your four-legged friends with you. All Geauga Park District parks have strict leash laws to ensure the safety of all. Although spotting coyotes is pretty rare, it is better to be prepared. Take a look at the video below that Naturalist Linda Gilbert was able to record about two years ago at Orchard Hills.
“Take a hike, bring your binoculars and your camera,
and enjoy what nature has to offer.”
Orchard Hills Park
11340 Caves Road
Chester Township
The online home for Orchard Hills Park, from which information for this article was obtained, can be found HERE.
What’s your favorite part of Orchard Hills Park? Share you thoughts below.
