Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Cuyahoga Valley National Park covers 33,000 acres between Cleveland and Akron, Ohio. The Cuyahoga River flows through its center, past sandstone cliffs, dense maple forests, and cascading waterfalls. Walk to the 65-foot Brandywine Falls, climb the ancient rock formations at Ritchie Ledges, or cycle the 125 miles of trails. The historic Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad runs through the valley, letting you hop on and off at multiple stops throughout the park.

Exploring Brandywine Falls

A 65-foot cascade tumbles over sandstone and shale layers at Brandywine Falls. Walk the wooden boardwalk from the parking area to reach two viewing platforms that look directly onto the falls. The site includes the remaining structures of a 19th-century mill that harnessed the waterfall's power for lumber and grain processing.

Hiking the Ledges Trail

Walk the 2.6-mile Ledges Trail through Sharon Conglomerate rock formations that date back millions of years. The path weaves between tall rock walls and passes Ice Box Cave, which maintains temperatures around 55°F year-round. Look for honeycomb weathering patterns in the rock face and deep crevices carved by ancient water channels.

Wildlife and River Ecosystem

The Cuyahoga River has recovered significantly since its infamous 1969 fire. Today, steelhead trout and northern pike swim in its waters, among 40 other fish species. Watch for bald eagles soaring overhead, peregrine falcons nesting in the cliffs, and beavers building dams along the riverbanks.

Riding the Scenic Railroad

Board the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad at multiple stations throughout the park. The restored vintage railcars run year-round, following the river's path through forests and past historic sites. Each season brings different views, from spring wildflowers to autumn foliage.

Winter Activities

Snow transforms the park's trails into routes for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The Towpath Trail stays open throughout winter, making it ideal for cold-weather hikes and spotting winter wildlife like white-tailed deer and red foxes.

Essential Information

Visit the Boston Mill Visitor Center daily from 9 AM to 5 PM for maps and information. Enter the park through multiple access points without paying an entrance fee. While the park has no drive-up campgrounds, you can camp at backcountry sites along the trails. For indoor accommodation, book one of nine bedrooms at the Stanford House, which includes shared facilities.