Chippewa Creek Bouldering Overview
- Address: 9000 Chippewa Road. Brecksville, Ohio 44141
- Hours: Daily: 6:00 am to 10:00 pm.
- Skill Level: All Skill Levels
- Number of Routes: 20+
- Activities: Bouldering (Climbing)
- Fees: Free
Chippewa Creek Bouldering Guide
Chippewa Creek Bouldering
The Chippewa Creek Bouldering area is a small portion of large rocks and boulders along the Chippewa Creek and the Gorge Loop Trail in the Brecksville Reservation, where climbers from all over Ohio come to Boulder.
It was first identified and mapped out as a bouldering area in the 1990s. Still, it wasn’t until recently that a dedicated Chippewa Creek Site was created to identify areas by name and problems and provide access information.
Today, there are over at least 20 different bouldering problems throughout the park that climbers can enjoy. It should be noted that different climber coalitions are working with the Cleveland Metroparks to create organized and formal routes and information like they currently have for Whipp’s Ledges.
The easiest way to access the Chippewa Creek Bouldering area is to park at the Chippewa Creek Falls parking lot at the entrance of the Brecksville Reservation, right off Royalton Road. From there, climbers can take the gorge loop trail down to Chippewa Creek for the first two bouldering areas.
Depending on your skill level, time, and interest, you can hike down the creek or visit other bouldering areas in the park. In addition, you can use the map below to identify problems you would like to solve.
The most popular problems include Pinch Arete, Keyhole, Spider Pocket, Racist Arete, Fight of Flight, and the Hangar. While still undeveloped, these areas can get crowded on the weekends during the summer.
Expert Tip
The Brecksville Reservation is quite large, and finding different bouldering areas and problems can take time, require off-trail trekking, and sometimes be confusing.
Because of this, I recommend going with someone who has already bouldered or reviewing different videos, maps, pictures, and descriptions that Climb Chippewa provides.
Not only this but because of the makeup of the rock, holds will sometimes break off in your hand while climbing. Due to this, it is essential to make sure you have a crash pad and helmet to help prevent serious injuries.
Finally, make sure to wear the appropriate clothing. Most of the bouldering areas are by the river, so mosquitoes tend to be bad in the summer. Long pants and long-sleeved shirts can help prevent getting eaten alive. Not only this, but you’ll need a good pair of boots for the trek to these areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is operational all year, from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. However, climbing in the winter due to poor conditions and ice is not recommended.
Currently, no permits or permissions are needed.
No. Getting to the bouldering areas requires hiking on dirt, rock, and other types of uneven trails.
With over 20 different bouldering routes/problems, the Chippewa Creek Bouldering Area is perfect for all climbing skill levels.
Typically, bouldering outdoors is not recommended for any kid without climbing experience. Kids climbing or bouldering before will have fun trying the different routes. Ensuring kids and adults have the proper equipment and safety gear is essential.
Chippewa Creek Bouldering Virtual Tour
Chippewa Creek Bouldering Map
How to Get There (Driving Direction)
The easiest way to the Chippewa Creek Bouldering area in the Brecksville Reservation is to input the Brecksville Nature Center (9000 Chippewa Road, Brecksville, Ohio) into your phone and GPS, which will bring you close to the trailhead.
Driving Directions:
- When driving, enter the Brecksville Reservation off Royalton Road (Route 82). As soon as you turn into Chippewa Creek Road take an immediate left into the first parking lot you see.
Learn More About the Brecksville Reservation
The Chippewa Creek Bouldering Area is fun and adventurous for rock climbers of all levels. The park also offers many other activities, including horseback riding at the Brecksville Stables, observing the Salamander Migration, visiting the Brecksville Nature Center, hiking, and so much more!
