Penitentiary Glen Reservation

Penitentiary Glen Reservation is a 424-acre nature preserve in Kirtland, Ohio, managed by Lake Metroparks. The park takes its name from a 100-foot deep gorge that earned the nickname "Penitentiary Glen" from settlers in the 1880s — the gorge was easy to enter but hard to escape, much like a jail. The grounds encompass forests, fields, wetlands, and 8.5 miles of hiking trails, and have been recognized as a "Watchable Wildlife" site by Ohio's Division of Wildlife. For private events, Forest Hall in the Nature Center accommodates up to 120 guests in a climate-controlled, wheelchair-accessible multipurpose room fitted with kitchen facilities and audio-visual equipment. Rabbit Run Shelter offers smaller outdoor gatherings for up to 75 guests. The grounds also include the Kevin P. Clinton Wildlife Center, which rehabilitates approximately 2,000 injured or orphaned animals each year, and Lake Shore Live Steamers miniature steam train rides — distinctive features that give the reservation a naturalistic character unlike traditional event venues.