Imagine standing on a 137-foot-long sheet of glass, high above a gorge, watching a waterfall rush below your feet. Sounds like something out of an adventure travel documentary, right? Nope—it’s in Ohio now.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) just cut the ribbon on its newest and arguably flashiest addition to Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park: the Falls Edge Glass Walkway. This sleek new stunner is all about the drama—without any of the danger. Think glass-bottom boat, but for hiking.
Located in northeast Ohio, Nelson-Kennedy Ledges is already known for jaw-dropping features like Devil’s Icebox, The Narrows, and Goldhunter’s Cave. Now, the park adds a modern twist to its prehistoric vibes.
The new walkway snakes gracefully above Sylvan Creek’s gorge in a curvy “S” shape and ends just shy of the breathtaking Minnehaha Falls. If you’re scared of heights, consider this your gentle nudge toward thrill-seeking (with plenty of stainless steel railings for support).
But this isn’t just a cool photo op. It’s also about conservation.
“This project is the perfect blend of innovation and preservation,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “It gives visitors a mind-blowing view while protecting the fragile landscape below.” In other words, you can get your heart rate up without stepping off the marked trails (which, by the way, you really shouldn’t be doing anyway).
Constructed from structural glass, galvanized and painted steel, fiberglass grating, and stainless steel cable railings, the $1.68 million walkway was designed to stand out and blend in. It offers a bird’s-eye view of the park’s rugged rock formations and lush greenery, all while keeping delicate ecosystems intact and untrampled.
Alongside the walkway, ODNR has added new wayfinding stations throughout the park.
These signs don’t just help you get from Point A to “Whoa, is that a cave?” They also dish out cool facts about the park’s geology and plant life.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Ohio’s state parks or just looking for a new place to point your camera (and maybe conquer your fear of heights), this glass walkway is your next excuse for a day trip. It’s open daily from dawn to dusk, and it’s basically begging to be part of your summer plans.
Reminder from the pros: Stick to the trails, leave no trace, and maybe don’t try to do cartwheels on the glass. (No matter how cool it looks.)
Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park is located at 12440 OH-282, Garrettsville, OH 44231. For more info, you can check out the park here. But honestly? Just go. You’ve got to see it to believe it.
