Big Creek Scenic Area — Attraction in Cleveland

The just over an hour-long drive from the Energy Corridor to the Big Creek Scenic Area is worth the trip. There are few times have I been out there that there were no more than one or two other groups on the trail, and given how big the area is, there is little other than the occasional jetliner overhead that disturbs the peace. The trails are well maintained, though you may have to step over a fallen tree here or there. Otherwise, it makes for an easy and relaxing hike through beautiful scenery. I have taken my step-kids out there a couple of times, and they loved it. I will say that if you do bring your kids, look at the map near the parking area. You may want to consider making the loop using the White Oak trail, as the Big Creek trail adds a significant amount more hiking and may not hold their interest as much as it veers away from the creek (despite its name). If, like me, you decide to go alone, it's best to let someone know where you are going. There is VERY little to no cellphone reception, and there have been times when I was out there that there was no one else on the trail, so it's best to be safe. You will have to take a dirt road to get to the parking area, but it's always leveled and an easy drive. All in all, I love it out there and always look forward to...

I've been hiking and maintaining trails in the Big Creek Scenic Area since I was a kid. I would recommend taking a night hike with several people. Park at the West boundary on Forest Service Road 221 @ the Lone Star Hiking Trail crossing (Look for brown & yellow Hiker Trail signs) and hike East on the LSHT (white rectangular markers on trees) into the BCSA using headlamps and, if needed a flashlight. Hike all the trails and listen for the Barred Owls hooting back and forth to each other. Hiking quietly along Big Creek you may be able to hike right under the tree that an Owl is perched and hooting. Very cool!! On night hikes, you may also see river otters, deer, and other wildlife if you are quiet. Hike in a group and I carry bear pepper spray in case I walk up on wild hogs. (No, there are no bears...lol) There is no camping in the Big...

First time ever going to this national forest and I brought my family to this specific location and we definitely enjoyed it. It was our first time ever hiking together. We have two boys ages 3 and 11 and they both had a blast hiking in these woods. I'm a novice when it comes to this nature stuff, but this was a great place for us. From this location one can hike 5 miles to a lake. Because of my little boy we weren't able to do such a thing, but I would've loved to do it. From the parking area one can see a lot though, within half a mile of hiking. I'm an amateur photographer so I was finding so may beautiful shots. There's plenty of free parking. There's a map you can take a picture of and follow. There's directional posts in the forest pointing you in the right direction because, as I realized quickly, it is easy...