West Creek Conservancy has been a driving (no pun intended) force for the Hemlock Creek Trail in the City of Independence, which will ultimately be the largest community connector for the Cuyahoga Valley National Park (CVNP).
Nearly 2 miles in length, the trail will help connect the eastern section of the West Creek Greenway (and Reservation) to the CVNP and Towpath Trail. Starting at Selig Drive (where the city’s civic center is), adjacent to the Cleveland Clinic’s Business Operation Center, the trail will follow a portion of Old Stone Road, past the Haydite mine (fun fact, this mine opened in 1892 and is the city’s longest running business), and over the Cuyahoga River.
West Creek Conservancy has helped secure over $2.5 million for this initiative so far through the Federal Transportation Bill and the Clean Ohio Trails Fund, with additional support provided by the City of Independence, the Ohio & Erie Canalway Association, as well as numerous private donors, such as the Independence Garden Club.
See the events section for scheduled hikes and tours along the Hemlock Creek Trail, or email jakob@westcreek.org for more info.