Overview / About the Park

Cuyahoga Valley National Park stretches between Cleveland and Akron, Ohio, following the winding path of the Cuyahoga River once known as the “crooked river.”
 It’s a green refuge filled with waterfalls, forests, rolling hills, and historic towns, showing how nature and people can share the same landscape.
 The park covers over 33,000 acres, blending scenic beauty with cultural heritage. It protects not only wildlife and wetlands but also restored farmlands and historic canal paths.
 Cuyahoga Valley became a national park in 2000, after decades of local efforts to reclaim polluted land and protect open space near the city.

Wildlife & Nature

The park’s mix of forests, meadows, and wetlands supports a surprising range of wildlife.
 Visitors might spot white-tailed deer, beavers, foxes, and river otters, once reintroduced to the area.
Over 250 bird species have been recorded, including great blue herons, pileated woodpeckers, and migrating warblers.
The forest canopy is rich with maple, oak, beech, and sycamore, while spring brings a burst of wildflowers like trilliums and violets along shaded trails.

Experiences & Activities

  • Hiking & Biking:

    • The Towpath Trail follows the route of the historic Ohio & Erie Canal, stretching nearly 20 miles through the park.

    • Trails like Brandywine Gorge and Ledges Trail reveal waterfalls and dramatic sandstone cliffs.

  • Brandywine Falls: The park’s most famous landmark a 65-foot cascade surrounded by wooden boardwalks and lush forest.

  • Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad: Offers relaxing rides through the valley with hop-on-hop-off stops at park attractions.

  • Kayaking & Fishing: Paddle the Cuyahoga River or fish in ponds and streams.

  • Winter Activities: Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and even a bit of sledding in open meadows.

  • Cultural Stops: Visit the Canal Exploration Center, Hale Farm & Village, or local farmers’ markets that connect visitors to the valley’s history.

Best Time to Visit

Cuyahoga Valley is open year-round, and each season brings a different charm:

  • Spring: Wildflowers and waterfalls at their best.

  • Summer: Ideal for hiking, biking, and kayaking.

  • Fall: Brilliant foliage and comfortable temperatures the most popular time to visit.

  • Winter: Quiet trails, snow-covered forests, and scenic train rides through frosty landscapes.

How to Reach & Park Entry

  • Location: Northeastern Ohio, between Cleveland and Akron.

  • Nearest airports:
    • Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE): ~30 miles north.

    • Akron-Canton Airport (CAK): ~30 miles south.

  • By car: Easily accessible via Interstate 77, I-80 (Ohio Turnpike), and Route 8.

  • Entry fee: Free there’s no entrance fee to visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

Where to Stay / Camping Options

  • Stanford House: A restored 19th-century farmhouse offering cozy overnight stays near the Towpath Trail.

  • Inn at Brandywine Falls: A charming bed-and-breakfast beside the park’s most iconic waterfall.

  • Evergreen RV Resort & Nearby Lodging: A short drive from the park for campers and families.

While there’s no official campground within the park, nearby private and state campgrounds provide easy access to park trails.

Travel Tips / Safety Notes

  • Check trail conditions, especially after rain some paths get muddy.

  • Cell service can be spotty in forested areas.

  • Wear good hiking shoes and bring bug spray in summer.

  • Respect private property many park areas border local homes and farmlands.

  • Keep food sealed to avoid attracting wildlife.

  • The Towpath Trail is shared with cyclists stay alert when walking.

Packing List

  • Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Rain jacket or light layers

  • Snacks or picnic supplies

  • Hat, sunscreen, insect repellent

  • Camera or binoculars for birdwatching

  • Trail map or offline navigation

  • Warm gear for fall and winter visits

Visitor Statistics

Cuyahoga Valley National Park welcomes around 2.8 to 3 million visitors each year, making it one of the most visited parks in the U.S. Midwest.
 Peak visitation happens in September and October, when the fall colors light up the valley.

Conservation & Responsible Tourism

Cuyahoga Valley stands as a symbol of environmental recovery. Once polluted by industry, the Cuyahoga River now supports fish, birds, and recreation thanks to decades of cleanup efforts.
 Park staff and volunteers continue to restore wetlands, remove invasive plants, and protect wildlife corridors.

Visitors can help by:

  • Staying on trails and not disturbing vegetation.

  • Supporting local conservation groups and eco-friendly tours.

  • Reducing plastic waste and following Leave No Trace principles.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park shows how nature can heal turning an industrial landscape back into a living, breathing ecosystem. Whether you’re hiking the Towpath, riding the scenic train, or watching Brandywine Falls tumble through the forest, it’s a park that reminds you that renewal is possible.