Ansel's Cave Trail
About This Trail
Ansel’s Cave Trail is one of the longer trails at West Woods. Great for a carrier hike or stronger walkers. This hike starts just off of The West Woods parking lot next to the visitor center. Follow the signs to the Ansel’s Cave Trail.
Not far from the trail head the trail splits into two directions, one heads directly towards Ansel’s Cave on a wide manicured path. The other direction also reaches Ansel’s cave but is a longer, rougher trail.
There is a small wooden overlook near Ansel’s Cave, where you can view Sharon Conglomerate. Not actually a cave, more of a very large overhang, it is still a really cool place! The area is famous for many rumors of historical events. You can read more about that here: https://www.cleveland.com/chagrinsolonsun/index.ssf/2011/04/post_71.html
You are unable to venture into the cave area or climb the rocks and are requested to stay on the overlook and surrounding trails.
Trail Features
| Surface type | Dirt |
|---|---|
| Elevation gain | 100 ft. |
| Carrier needed | No |
| Stroller friendly | No |
| ADA accessible | No |
| Water fountains | No |
| Bathrooms | No |
| Cell reception | Spotty |
| Pet friendly | Yes |
| Nearby convenience store | Yes |
| Camping Nearby | No |
| Emergency support within 5 miles |
Yes |
Trail highlights
Other Trails in The West Woods
Trail Contributor
Mom of 2 in central CT, I have been a part of HIB since 2015 when I joined the Worcester branch in MA when my first child was still under 1 yr old. Currently a Branch Ambassador for the Hartford Branch. We enjoy getting out to our favorite weekly HIB spot with friends and going on family hikes on weekends to check out new places in the area.
Weather
Trail Map
About The Guide
Hike it Baby Family Trail Guide is an online resource to help families with children source trails that little legs can hike and parents can feel comfortable with. Hike details are sourced and have been hiked by families who participate in our community. Our contributors do their best to give you all the details they can, but if something is missed, you can reach out to the contributor and offer suggestions for them to add to make it a better trail description for all. This guide was built with a generous 3-year partnership with L.L Bean. Like Hike it Baby, L.L Bean believes that helping get families into nature from birth on is key to healthier, happier communities.
Trail Disclaimer
Hike it Baby makes every effort to keep trail content up to date, but trail conditions are subject to change. Hike it Baby is not responsible for any injuries that occur while hiking the trails covered in this guide. Hike it Baby is a platform that helps connect families to federal, state and local parks nationwide.