The Ledges

The Ledges are a sandstone-and-conglomerate outcrop on a wooded plateau, with narrow rock passages and a natural overlook toward the Cuyahoga Valley. Make time for the walk among the cliffs, not just the view: the weathered walls and crevices are the more distinctive part. The west-facing overlook is worth a pause, though tree cover can keep it from feeling like a wide-open panorama.

Start at Ledges Trailhead. The full trail circles the plateau through woods, rock formations and uneven steps; a shortcut across the grassy field reaches the overlook more directly. Take the loop for the close-up cliffs, or cut across the field if the view is your main goal. The rocky route isn't accessible to visitors with mobility impairments. Dogs are allowed. A large parking lot serves the trailhead, and there’s a picnic table at the overlook.

These cliffs are made of Sharon Sandstone and Conglomerate. About 315–320 million years ago, fast-running streams carried sand and quartz pebbles across a steamy swamp; those deposits eventually hardened into rock. Look closely at the walls for the rounded pebbles locked into the conglomerate.

Rain works through the ledges like a sponge, leaving this outcrop cooler and moister than the surrounding woods. Eastern hemlocks, mosses and ferns hold to its crevices. Listen for black-throated green warblers, too. Some plants in these cool pockets have survived here since near the end of the Ice Age.

Ritchie Ledges drew visitors in the 19th century. Cleveland industrialist Hayward Kendall left 430 acres around the outcrop to the Akron park district, creating Virginia Kendall Park in honor of his mother. Civilian Conservation Corps crews built trails and shelters in the 1930s, but the stone steps may be older: a 1906 newspaper photo shows a similar set, and their origin is still unsettled.

From the bare rock platform, look west across the valley; sunset and fall color are especially popular. Trees can screen a broad panorama when they’re in leaf, so include the layered sandstone and crevices in your photos as well. A clear evening gives sunset color its best chance to show.