A major component of Big Creek Reservation is Big Creek Parkway, a refreshing alternative to the standard suburban commuter routes to Cleveland. The reservation runs parallel to Pearl Road from Valley Parkway to Brookpark Road and is located in Brooklyn, Parma, Parma Heights, Middleburg Heights, and Strongsville.

Undoubtedly the highlight of the reservation is Lake Isaac. Classified as a “glacial pothole” created thousands of years ago, the lake can attract migrant waterfowl and shorebirds. A hiking trail follows the northern side of the lake and passes through marshes, a floodplain, pine plantation, woodlands, and an orchard. The surrounding land is a wildlife sanctuary and home to foxes, mink, deer, opossum, and countless other animals. It is one of the most active wildlife corridors in Cuyahoga County.

Big Creek Reservation Trails
There are 6 hiking trails in the Big Creek Reservation.
Lake to Lake Trail – 2.4 miles
Beyers Pond Loop Trail – .7 mile
Lake Isaac Loop Trail – 1.2 miles
Snow Road Loop Trail
Memphis Picnic Area Trail – .6 mile
All Purpose Trail – 8 miles

The Lake Issac Loop Trail is a good hike for a first trip to the Big Creek Reservation. Your journey starts at a “glacial pothole” lake which is an important waterfowl refuge.This easy trail winds through several habitats and a scenic overlook of Baldwin Creek.

To reach Lake Isaac, exit I-71 south of Cleveland at Bagley Road and proceed west for about .1 mile to Engle Road (OH-291). Turn left on Engle; it ends at Fowles Road in about .5 miles. Turn left on Fowles and take the immediate right onto Big Creek Parkway. The parking area for the lake will be very shortly on your right.

The AllTrails website had descriptions and maps of 3 hikes in the Big Creek Reservation.