Gildersleeve Mountain is a summit located in Kirtland, Ohio, United States. Gildersleeve Mountain is interesting and important because it is within one of the largest and most densely populated metropolitan areas in the United States (regional population 2.9 million). It is a relatively unspoiled and unique area just from downtown Cleveland. While this is not unique in a region where urban and suburban forest preserves abound, it is one of only two natural areas with higher elevations and unique rock outcroppings. Little Mountain, which is near the Holden Arboretum, is similar to Gildersleeve Mountain but is accessible on guided walks only. Gildersleeve Mountain is located in the Chapin Forest Reservation of Lake Metroparks and is referred to as the "scenic overlook". Geography The summit of Gildersleeve Mountain is above sea level. above Lake Erie. The shoreline of Lake Erie is approximately north west of the summit. Gildersleeve Mountain marks the beginning of the Allegheny Plateau in the area. Its northern slopes transition down the Portage Escarpment to the Erie Plain. The southern side of the feature has a much less dramatic transition, falling only to the surrounding highlands. Gildersleeve Mountain is one of the more obvious geographic features of the Cleveland region. It is visible when the view is unobstructed by buildings or trees from downtown Cleveland, Mayfield Heights, and from the shore and waters of Lake Erie. It is obvious when looking to the south from the lake or northeast from any tall building near the lake shore in Cuyahoga County. Gildersleeve Mountain also has views of Lake Erie from locations near the summit. From one location the view to the west and southwest affords a view of the downtown Cleveland skyline, away. On clear days the stacks in Lorain or Avon Lake may be visible, and on exceptional days the plume from cooling towers at the Davis-Besse, or Permian, nuclear power stations may be visible far to the west. Point Rondeau, Ontario, away, is the closest point on the Canadian shore of Lake Erie. However, the distance to the horizon at the lookout is only , so while the Canadian waters of Lake Erie are visible from Gildersleeve Mountain, the Canadian shore is not. On clear nights, lights are visible on the horizon to the northwest but it is uncertain if these are on the Canadian shore. The views to the north and east were once very good