Put-in-Bay Township Park District

Massie Cliffside Preserve Dedication

The Massie Cliffside Preserve was dedicated on August 7, 2016 on Lake Erie South Bass Island.

The Massie Preserve on the East Point of South Bass Island contains 11 acres of cliffs, woodlands, a trail system, and a dock for fishing and kayak access. The property boasts more than 265 feet of Lake Erie shoreline and contains critical habitat for the Lake Erie Watersnake, the Eastern fox snake, and the columbine and harebell plant which bloom along the dolomite cliffs. A trail winds through the woods to the cliffs, affording a spectacular view of Lake Erie and the surrounding islands. The site provides opportunities for hiking, nature and bird watching, fishing, kayak access, outdoor education, and scientific research. Benches along the cliff edges provide views for sunsets.

This land was acquired by the PIBTPD in 2014 and was the site of a farm, vineyard, and homestead. The area was then used for rental cottages. After the acquisition of the property, a cleanup removed abandoned trailers, cottages, and a variety of trash. Tons of debris were hauled from the site. After the cleanup, a replanting of the area began. Hoptree and chinquapin oak were planted in the rocky areas with bur oak, swamp white oak, red oak, American basswood, and bladdernut planted in moderate to wet areas. Clean Ohio Conservation Funds, a Nature Works Grant, Ohio Coastal Management Grant, Coastal and Estuarine Land Conservation Program, the Lake Erie Islands Conservancy, private donations, and the land owner donation provided funding for the purchase and restoration of the property.

View or download the trail map here:

Lake Erie South Bass Island Map

Location:

South Bass Island - East Point, State Route 357

Parcel Size:

11 acres

Access:

Parking area, canoe, and kayak
Trail: 1,750 foot trail - Rugged, hazardous areas, cliffs

Pier at the Massie Cliffside Preserve

A pier gives visitors to the preserve a place to enjoy the nature and beauty of the Lake Erie Islands.

 

Benches at the Massie Cliffside Preserve

Benches were installed to give people a place to relax on Lake Erie South Bass Island.

 

 

Hope you visit and enjoy the Massie Cliffside Preserve!