Lead On Climbing

Whipp's Ledges, Hinckley Reservation

Welcome to Lead On Climbing!
Rock climbing and rappelling are great activities for the entire family! With over 20 years of experience, Lead On Climbing is the premier climbing school in NE Ohio. We offer half and full day climbing trips at Hinckley Reservation, Ohio, and Muir Valley, Kentucky.

Is your group looking for an adventure? Experiences for scout & youth groups, family & friends, and birthday parties are a fantastic choice!

Our course offerings are tailored to meet your needs. Whether you are a new climber seeking professional instruction or experienced and looking to enhance your skills and technique, Lead On Climbing offers everything you need to get started and go further!

Here are some specifics about climbing at Hinckley Reservation:

Location: Whipp's Ledges, Hinckley Reservation
(a Cleveland Metropark).

We will meet at the parking lot at the Top O'Ledge's, picnic area #6 on the map, the entrance to which is located off Bellus Road, next to the ranger's stables, east of the corner of Bellus Road and State Road. This metropark is located on the east side of Medina County, south of State Route 303, between Richfield and Hinckley. It is approximately 15-20 minutes west of Route 8 and Route 303 (exit 12). (Please watch your speed when driving Route 303, as the road is winding and speed limit strictly enforced).

View Map and Directions

Hinckley Trail map

Area: After meeting in the parking lot, we will take a short hike through the woods on a moderate dirt trail that is not considered handicap accessible (it is not totally flat, there are rocks to make your way through). At the ledges, we will take a short trail down some blocky stairs to the main climbing area. It is shady here and this is where we will spend our day. There are several large boulders to sit on, but feel free to bring a chair if you like. Rock climbing will begin here, and rappelling will begin back up the blocky stairs to the rappel station. Under no circumstances are participants allowed to be near the edge without being on a rope, and under the supervision of Lead On Climbing.

Facilities: The Top O'Ledges Picnic area has a pavilion with picnic tables, and a bathroom facility with out-house style toilets (there is no running water or flush toilets). The picnic area and bathrooms are around a 10-minute walk from the area where we will be climbing.

What to bring: Dress for the weather, water, food, bug spray, sunscreen, camera, notebook & pen/pencil (for instructional courses), snug fitting old gym shoes (Boots are difficult to climb in; please, no sandals or flip-flops allowed), any necessary personal items. Climbing shoes may be available for your small group, please inquire when scheduling.

*Required in advance for registration:

*Please fill out separate forms completely for every participant.

Can we complete the forms that day?

The forms cannot be filled out on the day of the event.

Why not?

This is the Metropark rule. In order to rock climb, Lead On Climbing must turn in the signed waiver forms and participant list, in advance; this written information is then attached to our permit and submitted to the park for approval.

Safety Guidelines:

Lead On Climbing will go over guidelines for conduct for all participants and observers. Everyone is required to follow these guidelines throughout the day. Lead On Climbing staff reserves the right to deny climbing and rappelling privileges to any participant who refuses to follow the safety guidelines. No refunds will be made if this occurs. Everyone's safety and enjoyment is of utmost importance!

Adult chaperones: All children ages 17 and under are required to be monitored by a responsible adult. This adult chaperone is responsible for the children they bring at all times when not climbing or rappelling with a Lead On Climbing staff member. Bouldering, climbing un-roped, is strictly prohibited by Lead On Climbing and done at your own risk and responsibility.