Welton's Gorge Preserve - Burton, OH
Welton’s Gorge Preserve: A Pet-Friendly Outdoor Experience in Burton, Ohio
Welton’s Gorge Preserve offers a wonderful dog-friendly hiking experience for pets and their owners in Burton, Ohio. Known for its impressive gorge views, shaded woodlands, and well-kept trails, this park is a hidden gem perfect for anyone seeking dog-friendly outdoor activities. Dogs are welcome on-leash throughout the park’s pet-friendly trails, making it ideal for leisurely hikes, nature walks, and family outings—including your four-legged friends.
The preserve features a modern picnic pavilion equipped with a barbecue grill and fire pit, accessible restrooms, and ample wheelchair-accessible parking. Shaded walking paths, scenic gorge overlooks, and a cozy creek make every visit special, while kid-friendly amenities and tables make this an inviting spot for the whole family. Whether you’re looking to explore native salamanders, photograph dramatic scenery, or simply relax with your dog, Welton’s Gorge Preserve brings together nature, accessibility, and community in the heart of Geauga County.
FAQ
- Are dogs allowed at this park? Yes, dogs are allowed at Welton’s Gorge Preserve but must remain on-leash during your visit.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, there are several well-marked hiking trails, including shaded loops and gorge overlooks, perfect for walking your dog.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, much of the trail is shaded, and there is also a picnic pavilion with shelter and seating.
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, public restroom facilities are available on site near the parking area.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? Yes, both the entrance and parking lot are wheelchair accessible.
- Are picnics or BBQs allowed? Yes, the park features picnic tables and a barbecue grill where you can enjoy a picnic with friends and family.
- Are there activities or a playground for kids? Yes, the park has kid-friendly hikes and is considered a good spot for children.
- Is parking available? Yes, there is a dedicated parking lot adjacent to the pavilion.
- Are ticks or other pests common in the area? Some visitors note an increase in bugs and flies, especially in sunny and less-wooded areas.
Reviews
A nice new park in Geauga. First part of trail .3 miles is nicely shaded along the gorge rim to overlook points. No access into the gorge. We tried the 1.5 mile loop trail going further out but we were swarmed with flies and bugs out in the sunny area. So we retreated back to the shade. There’s a cool remnant of an old fireplace crumbling away. But no explanation of the house or cabin that used to be there. A nice looking modern picnic pavilion adjacent to the dusty parking lot. Bathroom facilities on site.
Not bad for a new park. The first half in the woods was beautiful. The second part of the trail is young woods but in the upcoming years will be just as nice. I think there should definitely be signs posted saying not to play in the gorge. We only knew because we read it on their website. Many people were playing in the gorge with their kids.
Very cool park, the gorge is very interesting, and there is a massive red oak near the parking lot. A clear creek with many salamanders runs through the gorge.I recommend doing the naturalist led hike down into the gorge. You sign up on the Geauga Park District website.
Great place to go hiking by yourself, or even with your friends. Me and my buddies went here and we walked the paths, took a bunch of photos of the gorge, did all sorts of fun stuff. Whenever I’m out this way I always like stopping and visiting here. 10/10, must visit!
Amazing scenery! We live within 15 minutes and never realized it was tucked back here. Great for short and longer hikes with kids. There’s a shelter with BBQ grill and fire pit at the front, cozy looking for summer evenings. So excited to spend more time!