Head for the Hills!

Head for the Hills!

Show your support for Moreland Hills parks by joining us on October 3, 2026, in the heart of the Chagrin River valley for Head for the Hills 2026! Moreland Hills is home to many of the area’s most prized and pristine green spaces. These include the beautiful 142-acre Forest Ridge Preserve and the Lang Pavilion (where this event will take place), sections of Cleveland Metroparks South Chagrin Reservation, U.S. President James A. Garfield’s cabin and birth site, and more. Registration fees and all donations benefit the non-profit Moreland Hills Parks Commission. This annual event provides the Parks Commission with its primary source of funds. The Parks Commission’s mission is to support preservation, improvements, and enjoyment of our local parks for all.

We are proud of our scenic, challenging and competitive 5K through the valley! But you don’t have to be a runner to enjoy this event. Experience the trails of Forest Ridge Preserve on our 1.5 mile self-guided hike or naturalist-guided hike — bring the whole family! All participants in the 5K and hike will receive a custom Head for the Hills tote bag, as well as chances for other prizes.

5K competitors have a chance to win overall and age group prizes. Enjoy coffee and breakfast from Stevie Bean mobile food and coffee truck. And for everyone, there will be free kids activities, crafts and more. NovaCare Rehabilitation will provide on-site care to help participants perform their best and recover quickly and safely.

START TIMES

• 8:00 am Runner/Hiker registration and packet pickup
• 8:15 am Coffee and breakfast available from Stevie Bean!
• 8:45 am CHAGRIN RIVER ROAD CLOSES
• 9:00 am 5K Run starts
• 9:00 am 1.5 mile hike start
• 9:00 am Kids activities start
• 10:00 am 5K awards announcement

TIMING SYSTEM

5K run MyLaps BibTag Chip timed

RUN/HIKE COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

5K Run
Challenge yourself on this scenic out and back course along beautiful Chagrin River Road (recently resurfaced for a smooth running experience!). Gently rolling hills, lovely homes and early fall colors welcome competitive racers and anyone seeking an enjoyable workout regardless of pace.

1.5-mile Hike
Traverses hills, ravines, and streams through the beautifully wooded and diverse trails in Forest Ridge Preserve. You can make the hike a self-guided experience at your own pace. Or you can join local educators / naturalists for a guided group experience to learn about the Forest Ridge natural ecosystem. Both options will be available for you to choose at the start of the event.

FAMILY AND SOCIAL EVENTS

Head for the Hills! Is about getting more people out to experience our fantastic parks. Bring the whole family and enjoy kids activities and crafts, and more. Or just hang out in the beautiful Lang Pavilion enjoying the warmth of the fireplace and meeting your Moreland Hills neighbors!