Hogback Ridge   
Emerson Rd., Madison

Hogback Ridge Park, one of the first Lake Metroparks, is   named for its most prominent natural feature: a high,
 narrow ridge of land bounded on two sides by steep valleys. This type of ridge is named for its resemblance to 
the bony spine of a hog. The hogback at this park is bordered on the north by the Grand River and on the south by
 Mill Creek. There are no designated trails on the hogback. Wildflowers! The 413 acres of Hogback Ridge include 
upland hardwood forests, hemlock ridges, and the floodplains of Mill Creek and the Grand River. A great abundance
 of spring wildflowers provides a spectacular show. Late march through the end of May is the best time to view this
 colorful display. Local History! Local history is preserved in the name of one of the trails: Old Emerson Road.
 Before any bridges were build across the Grand River-from the early 1800s until the beginning of this 
century-local residents followed Emerson Road across the river and creek at shallow points called fords. 
The Emerson family (for whom the road was named) operated a mill near the junction of Mill Creek and the
 Grand River. Fishing! Fishing is popular in both the Grand River and Mill Creek. Over 70 species of fish 
live in the Grand. Many of these also live in the creek. Common game fish include rock bass, bluegill, and 
small-mouth bass. Steelhead salmon are present in the creek from fall through spring. Trails! The trail
 system was improved in 1993. It includes a 1300-foot accessible boardwalk and overlook deck, graveled trails,
 and timber steps that lead down into the floodplain. These trails lead through a variety of habitats and 
varying terrain. Wild and Scenic Grand River! Hogback Ridge Park is situated along the Grand River corridor.
 This section of the Grand has been designated a Wild River by the State of Ohio, indicating that it has had
 minimal impact by human development. 

Hours: Daylight to 1/2 hour past sunset. 

Amenities: 418 Acres, Accessible Facilities, Picnic Area with Grills, Picnic Shelter, All people's Trail, 
Drinking Water, Restrooms, Hiking Trails, Fishing, and Cabin Rental. Call 440.358.7275 to reserve Cabin. 



How to get there: Take I-90 to Rt. 528 and go south for about 2 miles to Griswold Road. Turn left (east) for
 1 mile to Emerson Road and turn left (north) for 1/2 mile to Hogback Ridge.