Claridon Woodlands opens Jan. 2

The trails of Claridon Woodlands will open and then the park’s numerous other amenities will open later this year.

Geauga Park District has announced its newest addition for 2018.

Beginning Jan. 2, the trails of Claridon Woodlands will open and then the park’s numerous other amenities will open later in the year.

Located at 11383 Claridon Troy Road, Claridon Woodlands includes nearly two miles of trails and an easy access to The Maple Highlands Trail, according to a news release.

At one-sixth of a mile, the White Tail Trail is surfaced with asphalt for complete wheelchair and stroller accessibility. This trail connects the parking areas, lodge, event lawn, shelter, fire pit area, ropes course, pump track/single mountain bike track and The Maple Highlands Trail.

It also provides access to a fishing platform on the front pond.

The Drake Trail is 0.3mile aggregate surface following the southern shoreline of the front pond and crossing between the front and back pond along the top of the dam. Points of interest along this trail include the freeform boulder wall, Nature-based playground, and unique viewing platform along the back pond, the release stated.

Finally, the aggregate Tree Tapper Trail stretches a complete mile along the back pond’s wetlands area and meanders in a loop through the woods around the eastern part of the property. This trail also offers access to a viewing platform on the back pond, the release said.

As with every new Geauga Park District project, Claridon Woodlands’ development began with a biological assessment by its park biologist, assuring that development would be appropriate, said Executive Director John Oros in the release.

“I’m extremely proud of this new park, one of our best park development projects in my 25 years here,” Oros said. “It is the result of a very competent staff that executed successfully at every step in moving this project from concept to completion. And we did it all for you.”

Amenities to open later this year include the fishing platform, ropes course, pump track/single mountain bike track, freeform boulder wall and Naturebased playground, according to the release. A new lodge featuring large windows overlooking the water, indoor restrooms, a fireplace and a kitchenette will begin accepting reservations later in the year, as well.

“Our hope is that you will enjoy the newly constructed trails, wildlife observation decks now, and we can’t wait to unveil the other features later this year,” Oros said in the release.