Nature Center at Shaker Lakes

Activity Overview

The Nature Center at Shaker Lakes grew out of a protest by local residents in the 1960's to stop a freeway connecting Cleveland's East Side to Downtown from being built right through the wetlands. Thankfully they were successful in their campaign and now this beautiful area is protected from any future development. Today the Nature Center at Shaker Lakes aims to preserve the nature here for the enjoyment of all. They also provide entertaining events and informative educational programs with the goal of instilling a love for and a desire to learn about the natural world in all of its visitors.

Things to Do

• There are plenty of trails around the Center which allow you to get closer to nature. There different types of habitats to take in from lakes, marshes and streams to fields, ravines and forests. Of the trails the easies is the All People's Trail. This trail runs for a third of a mile along an elevated, railed boardwalk which can be navigated by people of all abilities.
• As one part of the Lake Erie Birding Trail the area around the Nature Center at Shaker Lakes is ideal for birdwatchers. The Center organizes free seasonal bird walks on the second Sunday of the month from October through to March at 8:30 am in the morning. You can also help them in their Christmas Bird Count which provides important data on bird population trends.

Nature Center at Shaker Lakes Insider Tips

• On their site the Nature Center provides information about recycling and a bunch of other ways you can do your bit for the environment by making your lifestyle greener.
• The Center's Duck Pond gift shop has a wealth of nature themed products on sale. It is open throughout the week.