When you live in a region for so long, you may start to notice that you overlook features around you that are truly splendid. You also may not question features as you should, and this one bizarre geological feature is definitely a head-scratcher if you haven’t learned its story. After all, it’s pretty bizarre to realize that a mountain overlooks Cleveland and you never even noticed. Don’t believe me? We’ve got photographic proof, and we’ll offer you directions so that you can explore the summit that’s right in your backyard.
On clear days in Downtown Cleveland, you may notice this shape in the distance. But what is it?
Jon Dawson/Flickr
This feature is known as Gildersleeve Mountain, a geological structure that rises 1,163 feet above sea level and is just 18 miles from Cleveland.
Chapin Forest Reservation/Facebook
Chapin Forest Reservation/Facebook The mountain was, at two different points in history, a quarry. It produced both Berea Sandstone blocks that built up the Kirtland area, as well as sand and gravel. Human activity has dramatically altered the face of this petite summit.
Cleveland is actually at the junction of two types of land, and Gildersleeve Mountain marks the beginning of one of the types.
Erik Drost/Flickr Cleveland sits at the nexus of two land types: the Allegheny Plateau and the Central Lowlands. Our mountain marks the beginning of the Allegheny Plateau in the area, and it gradually rises until it meets the Appalachian Crest.
Today, about 60% of the mountain is part of Chapin Forest Reservation.
Ken Lund/Flickr And, since you can actually explore the mountain, you’ll be able to see the changes in our local geology up close.
Hiking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds grace the area, providing you exceptional outdoor entertainment.
Erik Drost/Flickr
And, of course, you can spot the Cleveland skyline from its peak on clear days and evenings.
Erik Drost/Flickr
The geology creates a unique environment in which certain species flourish.
Erik Drost/Flickr
The first tiger spiketail dragonfly was discovered on the mountain more than a decade ago, and other rare dragonfly species have been documented in the area.
Vicki DeLoach/Flickr
You may also spot rarer nesting and migrant birds in the region, so keep your eyes peeled!
Chapin Forest Reservation/Facebook
This land was once inhabited by timber rattlesnakes and wolves.
Danielle B/TripAdvisor Today, such animals no longer live in the region; however, black bears have left prints in the area, and evidence of bobcats has been found.
Today, many of its inhabitants are human.
Chapin Forest Reservation/Facebook Since many private residences are on the mountain, be sure to respect park boundaries during your visit. Will this be your first visit ever? These driving directions may help.
You will adore your visit to the mountain you probably didn’t even realize was there.
Chapin Forest Reservation/Facebook Though it is petite as far as mountains go, Gildersleeve presents incredible opportunity for outdoor adventure. With around six miles of trails, 403 acres of habitat, and a ski center, you will never be bored.
This mountain is just a short drive from home, and you will be wowed by its incredible beauty.
Danielle B/TripAdvisor
The Cleveland area is enchanting, full of spectacular sights and attractions. Now that you know that our region has its own mountain that is open to the public for visits, are you ready for an unforgettable experience?
Jon Dawson/Flickr
Chapin Forest Reservation/Facebook
The mountain was, at two different points in history, a quarry. It produced both Berea Sandstone blocks that built up the Kirtland area, as well as sand and gravel. Human activity has dramatically altered the face of this petite summit.
Erik Drost/Flickr
Cleveland sits at the nexus of two land types: the Allegheny Plateau and the Central Lowlands. Our mountain marks the beginning of the Allegheny Plateau in the area, and it gradually rises until it meets the Appalachian Crest.
Ken Lund/Flickr
And, since you can actually explore the mountain, you’ll be able to see the changes in our local geology up close.
Vicki DeLoach/Flickr
Danielle B/TripAdvisor
Today, such animals no longer live in the region; however, black bears have left prints in the area, and evidence of bobcats has been found.
Since many private residences are on the mountain, be sure to respect park boundaries during your visit. Will this be your first visit ever? These driving directions may help.
Though it is petite as far as mountains go, Gildersleeve presents incredible opportunity for outdoor adventure. With around six miles of trails, 403 acres of habitat, and a ski center, you will never be bored.
Have you already visited Gildersleeve Mountain? Could you see Cleveland off in the distance? Tell us about your visit in the comments below, and don’t forget to share photos of your adventure with us on Instagram (@only.in.cleveland) or Only In Cleveland on Facebook for a chance to see them featured!
If you’re in the mood for more adventure, you will love this toboggan chute near Cleveland!
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