Carlisle Reservation

Carlisle is the largest of the Lorain County Metro Parks, encompassing 1,917 acres when included with Forest Hills Golf Course which lies at the northeastern end. Carlisle Reservation also offers a large variety of events and activities throughout the year, and is home to the administrative offices for the entire park system. From Holiday Lights to horseback riding to stargazing, Carlisle Reservation is a place you’ll want to get to know better.

Activities

• Hiking Trail

• Playground

• Indoor Children’s Play Space

• Horse Trails & Equestrian Arena

• Raptor Center

• Discovery Den

• Observatory

• Reservable Shelters

• Visitors Center

Trail Map

The 1,500 acres of the Carlisle Reservation provide for an adventurous amount of hiking. The flood plain, upland meadows, mature forests, and a 65-acre wetland area provide for scenery changes during hikes. There are asphalt, gravel, dirt, and grass trails to pick from.

Length: Various (over 11 miles of total trails)
Surfaces: Asphalt, Crushed Stone, Dirt, Grass

Features & History

While one side of the Visitor Center houses the administrative offices, the other side is open to the public and has several interesting places to see. Our indoor Children’s Play Space is a colorful split-level playroom where little ones can crawl, climb, and explore. Kids and adults alike can enjoy the Discovery Den with educational activities and a comfortable window view of the native birds and pollinators making a stop at the observation garden. If you’re looking for a reservable meeting room, the visitor center has two: the Black River Room and the Carlisle Room that are available to rent for organization meetings and trainings, or private parties.