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Travelers with a love for the stars and stargazing will love Geauga Observatory Park in Ohio. More than just a park that is home to many outdoor activities and miles of hiking trails, Geauga State Park offers travelers the chance to make use of their equipment and set up to view the stars in an intimate way.
The Geauga Observatory has been steadily growing since its acquisition of the Nassau Observatory in 2008. The park now offers travelers an incredible chance to soak up both nature and the stars in Ohio. This is a can’t-miss opportunity for travelers to gaze into both nature and the stars.
Stargaze At Geauga Observatory Park
Geauga Observatory Park started off as simply an idea, a 0.64-meter telescope and a small piece of land. That would change in 2008 when the park acquired the nationally recognized Nassau Observatory and the additional land that accompanied it. The Nassau Observatory had formally been close to Cleveland but due to light pollution, was forced to move away in 1957, resulting in much disuse after the 1990s.
This now-completed park boasts an observatory, two telescopes, and permanent astronomy-themed exhibits. Its 418-hectare preserve in Monteville Township serves as the park’s home. Travelers visiting the park will also be able to learn and experience a bit about the history of astronomy in Ohio. Home to science professionals from various universities in the area, this is an excellent opportunity to meet those who have invested so much time in astronomy and developed their own interest in the science of the stars.
Weather And Stargazing Conditions
Weather, regarding stargazing, is critical to what kinds of results stargazers will have. So, travelers should be sure to check out weather conditions before making the trip. Travelers can check out this website. It is also recommended that travelers plan their trip to coincide with the new moon. This is astronomical twilight and will enhance a traveler’s viewing experience.
What Else Does Geauga Observatory Park Offer Travelers
This incredible 1,100-acre park was established to encourage travelers to turn their eyes toward the night sky. But that isn’t all this park is suitable for. This park isn’t only a chance for travelers to enjoy the outdoors with its 3.97 miles of hiking trails, this park. It is also a chance for travelers to study the weather, see life-sized cornerstones of the Great Pyramid of Giza, earthen mounds and henge stones, and, via a woodland trail, access to the Nassau Astronomical Station.
- Designated - 2011
- Category - Dark Sky Park
- Address - 10610 Clay Street, Montville Township, OH 44064 USA
- Contact - Mr. Chris Mentrek
- Land Area - 4.5 km2
- Activities List
Hours Of Operation
The park operates on two different schedules depending on the time of year. From Labor Day to Memorial Day, the part is open from 6 am until 11 pm. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, the park is open from 6 am to 1 am. Travelers should make sure to know the park's hours of operation before going on this trip.
- Labor Day To Memorial Day - 6 am to 11 pm
- Memorial Day To Labor Day - 11 am to 1 am
Go Hiking In Geauga Observatory Park
With four and a half square kilometers of area, there are more than a few trails for travelers to check out during their time at Geauga Observatory Park. Many of the hikes will take travelers to locations with some of the best vistas in the surrounding area. The terrain is also considered easy, so even inexperienced hikers can enjoy the trails.
Planetary Trail, Woodland Loop, And Nassau Connector Trail
The Planetary Trail is the park's primary five-kilometer trail that takes walkers through the park. The trail usually takes a little less than an hour to complete while walking, but it is also a popular destination for runners. It is also likely travelers will encounter people birding from March to October along the trail. It is a relatively easy route that most travelers will be capable of.
- Length - 5.0 km
- Elevation gain - 26 m
- Route type - Loop
- Difficulty - easy
Camping In Geauga Observatory Park
Travelers visiting Geauga Observatory Park will also have the incredible opportunity to spend the night camping in the park. There are four areas within the park where camping is allowed Big Creek Park, Chickagami Park, Headwaters Park, and The West Woods. Travelers are asked to visit both the sites for each park to learn about the area and also to visit their Reservations page to claim a campsite and to read the complete information and rules related to camping. Reservations must be made before 4 pm seven days prior to the day of reservation. For those that prefer, reservations may also be made by phone.
- Contact - (440) 286-9516