Start your adventure on the Bedford Reservation All Purpose Trail. This paved 7.6-mile trail winds through the reservation’s woodlands and connects to several scenic areas. Along the way, stop by Bridal Veil Falls Scenic Overlook and the Tinker’s Creek Gorge Scenic Overlook for stunning views of autumn leaves and peaceful water features.

For a more adventurous route, check out the Bedford Singletrack Trail, a multi-loop system that weaves through the forest. While designed for mountain biking, it’s also walkable and a great way to explore less-traveled parts of the park.

Another gem is the Sagamore Creek Loop, which you can access from the Alexander Road Trailhead. This trail offers a quieter hike through ravines, small waterfalls, and steep wooded slopes—a perfect place to immerse yourself in fall color.

Don’t forget your camera or phone! The lighting in October is ideal for photos, and the vibrant reds, oranges, and golds make for stunning backdrops. Whether you’re hiking solo, with family, or just out to breathe in some crisp autumn air, you’ll find that Bedford’s trails are full of beauty and inspiration this time of year.

So grab your boots, a warm drink, and get outside—fall is calling!

The post October Outdoor Adventure: Leaf Peeping and Scenic Photography in Bedford first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

1. Layer Up: Temperatures can swing fast in September. Pack layers—think thermal shirts, hoodies, and a warm, insulated jacket. Don’t forget thick socks and a hat for sleeping!

2. Prep for Damp Conditions: Autumn mornings bring dew, and rain is always possible. Bring a tarp for under your tent and another for overhead if the forecast looks sketchy. Waterproof boots are a must, especially if you’re hiking in Bedford’s wooded trails.

3. Bring the Right Gear: A 3-season sleeping bag is perfect for September camping. Add a sleeping pad or insulated mat for extra warmth. A headlamp, lantern, or string lights will make camp setup and late-night s’mores runs easier.

4. Enjoy Seasonal Foods: Pack hearty meals like chili or foil-packet potatoes. Apples and cider make for great fall-friendly treats. Just be sure to store all food securely—wildlife is active in our local parks!

5. Take in the Scenery: Bedford’s trails are beginning to show their fall colors. Take a morning hike or sunset walk to soak it all in.

So grab your gear, invite a friend or two, and enjoy the fresh fall air. Happy camping, Bedford!

The post Fall Camping Tips for September in Bedford first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

Adventurous runners tackled the 7-mile course, which included rugged trails, tricky roots, and two river crossings. Some chose the ruck option, carrying weighted packs for an extra test of endurance. For others, the one-mile hike provided a more relaxed way to take in the scenery and return to the starting area in time for the festivities.

Waiting at the finish were German traditions that made the event feel like a mini-Oktoberfest. Participants enjoyed music, beer, and brats, while cheering on competitors in the traditional “feat of strength” contest of stiff-arm beer holding. The lively atmosphere encouraged camaraderie among both seasoned athletes and casual walkers.

Run the Land, the Cleveland-based event management company behind Flusslauf, specializes in creating memorable experiences that get people moving while also giving back to the community. This year’s event continued that mission, with a portion of proceeds benefiting Bike Cleveland, a nonprofit dedicated to safe bicycling across Northeast Ohio.

The Flusslauf once again showed how Bedford Reservation is the perfect backdrop for both outdoor adventure and community celebration.

The post Run the Land Flusslauf Brings Energy to Bedford Reservation first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The idea is simple: choose a starting point—like the Bedford Reservation entrance or Viaduct Park—and let spontaneity guide your adventure. Flip a coin at each trail fork, draw your next turn from a hat, or use a random number generator to decide how many steps or minutes to go before changing direction. It’s a great way to explore areas you may normally pass by and a fun way to get your body and mind moving in new ways.

This challenge is perfect for walking, jogging, or biking, and you can make it as chill or as intense as you want. Bring a friend or go solo with a journal to jot down what you discover—new paths, hidden overlooks, or maybe even a surprise sense of confidence.

To make it even more rewarding, add small dares like “take a different trail than usual,” “climb a hill you usually skip,” or “say hello to five fellow trail users.” It’s about more than just physical movement—it’s about mental growth and breaking free from the expected.

So this August, take the challenge. Try something new, get a little lost, and discover just how much Bedford still has to surprise you with.

The post Push Past Your Comfort Zone with an Unpredictable Route Challenge in Bedford first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

Start by picking a cozy spot in your yard. Lay out blankets, lawn chairs, or even an inflatable mattress for extra comfort. Add string lights, lanterns, or battery-operated candles to create a cozy, movie-theater feel right at home. A projector and a white sheet (or outdoor screen) are all you need to bring the big screen to your backyard. Don’t forget the bug spray and a bowl of popcorn—or go big with a DIY snack bar featuring drinks, candy, and fruit!

For a movie lineup, keep it light and fun. Great summer picks include:

• “The Sandlot” – a nostalgic favorite that’s perfect for all ages
• “Mamma Mia!” – sing-along vibes and summer scenery
• “Lilo & Stitch” – heartwarming and beachy
• “Hidden Figures” – inspirational and family-friendly
• “Back to the Future” – a classic that never gets old

Hosting an outdoor movie night is also a great way to stay eco-friendly—use reusable cups, plates, and blankets, and keep the sound at a neighbor-friendly volume.

So grab your snacks, pick a film, and enjoy a night of movies and memories under the stars—right here in Bedford!

The post Backyard Movie Night Under the Stars in Bedford first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

Start your day with a mindful nature walk at Bedford Reservation. With the trees in full bloom and the sounds of birds filling the air, it’s the ideal setting to unplug and reconnect with nature. Walk along the Tinker’s Creek Gorge Overlook for stunning views, or take a peaceful stroll by Bridal Veil Falls.

For a truly relaxing experience, bring a hammock or blanket and set up in a quiet spot under the trees. Bedford Reservation has plenty of shaded areas where you can read a book, meditate, or simply listen to the rustling leaves.

If you’re looking for a gentle activity with an eco-friendly touch, try a leave-no-trace picnic. Pack a meal with reusable containers, avoid single-use plastics, and enjoy a peaceful outdoor lunch while minimizing waste.

Another great way to enjoy the day is by birdwatching or journaling at Viaduct Park. This hidden gem offers a scenic and quiet space to observe nature, sketch, or simply reflect.

Memorial Day doesn’t have to be all about barbecues and big gatherings—sometimes, the best way to spend it is by embracing the calm and natural beauty of Bedford. Take time to relax, refresh, and enjoy a mindful escape in our own backyard!

The post Relaxing Memorial Day “Calm-Cation” Ideas in Bedford first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

Bedford Reservation is home to some of the most stunning spring wildflowers in Northeast Ohio. Along trails like the Bridal Veil Falls Trail and the Tinker’s Creek Gorge Scenic Overlook, you’ll spot delicate trilliums, bright yellow trout lilies, and vibrant Virginia bluebells carpeting the forest floor. The cool, crisp air combined with the gentle sounds of birds returning for the season makes for an unforgettable walk.

Wildflower walks are a fantastic way for everyone—families, kids, seniors, and solo explorers—to enjoy the outdoors without needing any special equipment. Just grab some comfortable shoes, a light jacket, and maybe a camera to capture the beauty of the season. If you’re interested in learning more, Cleveland Metroparks occasionally offers guided wildflower hikes where naturalists share insights about the plants and their role in the ecosystem.

April is a special time in Bedford, as the landscape transforms from winter’s gray to a lush, colorful paradise. So, take a stroll, breathe in the fresh spring air, and enjoy the natural beauty right in our backyard. There’s no better way to welcome the season!

The post Spring Awakening: Wildflower Walks in Bedford first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The celebration will take place at Bedford Bearcat Stadium, 481 Northfield Rd. Gates open at 9:45 a.m., and the Egg Hunt begins promptly at 10:00 a.m. Families are encouraged to arrive on time so children don’t miss the action—once the hunt begins, the eggs go quickly!

While the event is free, pre-registration is required to participate. Registration will not be accepted on the day of the event, so it’s important to sign up in advance to secure your spot. Only Bedford residents are eligible to attend.

This egg hunt is more than just gathering candy-filled treats. It’s a time for the community to come together and enjoy the season of renewal with family, friends, and neighbors. Don’t forget your camera—the Easter Bunny will be available for photos throughout the event.

To register or learn more, contact the Bedford Parks & Recreation Department as soon as possible. Don’t delay—this popular event fills up quickly, and registration closes before the big day!

The post Hop to It: Pre-Register Now for Bedford’s Easter Egg Hunt first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

For those seeking a cardio boost, cross-country skiing is a fantastic way to explore the snow-covered trails. The All-Purpose Trail and other paths throughout the reservation offer a mix of terrains, perfect for beginners and experienced skiers alike. Glide through the quiet, snow-draped forest and take in the serene winter landscape.

Snowshoeing is another great option and is perfect for all ages and fitness levels. It’s as simple as walking, but with the added bonus of being able to trek across snowy terrain. Strap on some snowshoes and explore the wooded trails or venture to the scenic overlooks for breathtaking views of Tinker’s Creek Gorge.

For families and kids, sledding is a must! Find a gentle slope and enjoy hours of fun zooming down the hills. Pack a thermos of hot cocoa to keep warm between runs—it’s a winter tradition that never gets old.

Even if you prefer a slower pace, a winter walk on the reservation’s trails is a treat. The crisp air, peaceful surroundings, and snow-covered trees make for a truly magical experience.

So, bundle up and head to Bedford Reservation this winter. Whether you’re skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, or simply taking a stroll, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

The post Outdoor Winter Fun for Everyone at Bedford Reservation first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

To start, we turn raking into a friendly competition. We divide the yard into sections and challenge the kids to see who can collect the most leaves in their area. Setting a timer adds excitement and urgency, and the kids love racing against the clock. To keep it light-hearted, we reward the winner with a small treat or extra screen time for the day.

Another fun twist is to create “leaf piles” for jumping. Once we’ve raked a significant amount of leaves, I let the kids jump into the piles we’ve created. It’s an exhilarating experience for them and makes the hard work of raking feel worthwhile. They laugh and squeal as they dive into the crunchy leaves, creating lasting memories in the process.

We also get creative by using leaves to make art projects afterward. Kids can collect different shapes and colors of leaves to use for crafts like leaf rubbings or collages. This way, the fun continues even after the raking is done.

By turning leaf raking into a game, we not only tackle the yard work together but also enjoy quality family time and celebrate the beauty of autumn in Bedford. So grab those rakes and let the games begin!

The post Turning Leaf Raking into a Fun Family Game first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.