The Eastlake Boat Ramp on the Chagrin River is currently under the control of the Eastlake Port Authority, with plans to turn this into a park.

The area mainly consists of an unmowed field with some bushes and some patches of trees. The field also has a small stream running through it that flows into a channel of the Chagrin River just before it flows into Lake Erie. Often in winter, the stream does not freeze over when other water in the area has, including the channel it flows into. However, where the stream flows into the channel often remains open, creating a rare area of open standing water for ducks to gather.

Although connected to the Chagrin River, the channel does not have much of a current. This is because it is at the end of the river where the water is at about the same elevation as the water in Lake Erie. If one has a kayak or canoe, it can be launched from the boat ramp. Heading north will take you to two forested islands at the mouth of the Chagrin River.

Being so close to Lake Erie, this area is a great spot for migrating birds to rest, refuel, and be seen!

Directions: Heading north on Erie Road a third of a mile, after you pass Lakeshore Boulevard you will see two drives on your right, turn into the second one (just before a patch of trees [41.668354,-81.435198]). You can park anywhere but the best spot is in front of the “Eastlake Salmon Association” building.