CUYAHOGA
VALLEY
NATIONAL PARK

AREA - 32,950 ACRES

EST. 12 27 1974

OHIO

Planning a Trip to
Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a stunning national park located in Ohio, just south of Cleveland. It is the only national park in Ohio and protects over 33,000 acres of the Cuyahoga River, rolling hills, and lush forests. Visitors can explore the park's hiking trails, waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and historic sites. There are also opportunities for canoeing, biking, and horseback riding, as well as a variety of educational programs. Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a great place to spend a day exploring and learning about the area's natural beauty.

"the grandest of all special temples of Nature" and "the only one of the world's great parks that could not be improved."
- John Muir

"In God's wildness lies the hope of the world - the great fresh unblighted, unredeemed wilderness. The galling harness of civilization drops off, and wounds heal ere we are aware.
-Theodore Roosevelt

BEST TIME TO GO

Spring is the best time to visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park. With the snow melting and the temperatures rising, the park is alive with vibrant colors and wildlife. Enjoy the mild weather and take in the beauty of the blooming wildflowers.

Summer is another great time to visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Take advantage of the warm temperatures and enjoy the miles of hiking trails, swimming in the lake, and canoeing on the Cuyahoga River.

Fall is the perfect time to visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park. The colors of the leaves changing creates a beautiful landscape. Plus, the cooler temperatures make for an enjoyable hike.

Winter is also a great time to visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park. The snow creates a picturesque scene and you can take part in winter activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a beautiful destination all year round, but the best time to visit depends on what activities you are looking to do. Springtime is the perfect season for exploring the park’s many trails and picnicking in the sunshine. Summertime offers the perfect opportunity to go canoeing, kayaking, and swimming on the Cuyahoga River. Visitors in the fall can take advantage of the park’s stunning foliage and go apple picking at a local orchard. Wintertime is a great time for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice skating. No matter what time of year you choose to visit, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is sure to provide a memorable experience.

OVERVIEW

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. With 33,000 acres of rolling hills and stunning waterfalls, the park offers a wide range of activities. From biking, hiking and horseback riding to camping, fishing and picnicking, the park offers something for everyone. The best things about the park are the stunning views, diverse wildlife, and the opportunity to explore nature. Visitors can also take advantage of the park's many educational programs, which teach about the local ecology, history and culture. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day outdoors or an adventure in nature, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is the perfect place to explore.

WEATHER

Cuyahoga Valley National Park experiences a variety of weather conditions throughout the year. During winter, temperatures usually range from the mid-20s to the low-40s, and the park experiences snowfall throughout the season. Spring temperatures range from the low-30s to the mid-60s, and rainfall is common. Summer temperatures range from the mid-60s to the mid-80s, and thunderstorms are common. Fall temperatures range from the mid-30s to the low-60s, and the park experiences beautiful foliage during this time of year. No matter the season, visitors will find something to love in Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife and plants, making it an important ecological resource. The park is located in the Cuyahoga Valley, which is part of the Great Lakes region and is part of the largest deciduous forest in the world. There are over 200 species of birds, as well as a variety of mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. The park also contains several important wetlands, which provide habitat for aquatic life. The park is also home to several rare and threatened species, including the endangered Karner Blue Butterfly. The park's ecological diversity makes it an important resource for conservation and education.

GEAR

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a great place to explore and discover the beauty of nature. To help you make the most of your adventure, here are the top 10 must-have items for your visit to the park:
1. A good pair of hiking boots: these will provide extra support and traction when exploring the trails.
2. A camera: capture the stunning views and wildlife of the park.
3. Sunscreen: protect your skin from the sun's UV rays.
4. Bug spray: keep pesky bugs away while enjoying the outdoors.
5. Water bottle: stay hydrated while on the trails.
6. A map: make sure you don't miss any of the park's attractions.
7. Flashlight: come in handy when exploring the park after dark.
8. A first-aid kit: be prepared for any minor injuries.
9. Binoculars: get a closer look at the park's wildlife.
10. A picnic blanket: enjoy a snack or lunch at one of the park's scenic overlooks.

Head out on an adventure to the Cuyahoga Valley National Park with the right gear! Here are the top 10 outdoor activities gear to get for your trip:
1. Hiking boots: Get a sturdy and comfortable pair of boots to traverse the trails.
2. Waterproof jacket: Stay warm and dry in a lightweight and waterproof jacket.
3. Camping tent: Pitch a tent in the great outdoors and spend the night under the stars.
4. Trekking poles: Make the trails easier with a pair of trekking poles.
5. Binoculars: Get a better view of the park with a pair of binoculars.
6. Insect repellent: Keep the bugs away with insect repellent.
7. Backpack: Carry all your gear in a durable and comfortable backpack.
8. Flashlight: Light up your path with a waterproof flashlight.
9. First aid kit: Get a first aid kit in case of any emergencies.
10. Lantern: Illuminate your campsite with a lantern.

GEAR UP

HISTORY

Cuyahoga Valley National Park was established in 2000, but its history dates back to the early 19th century when the first settlers arrived in the valley. For centuries, the land was used for farming and manufacturing, and the Ohio and Erie Canal was built in the valley in the early 1800s. In 1974, Congress designated the area as a National Recreation Area, and it was later established as a National Park in 2000. Today, visitors can explore the history of the area through the many cultural and natural resources located within the park.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is full of legendary stories. One of the most well-known stories is the legend of "Old Man Overlook," a mysterious figure who supposedly lives in the park and watches over it from a high vantage point. The legend goes that if you make it to the top of the highest point in the park, you can catch a glimpse of Old Man Overlook. Other stories include the legend of the "Frogman of Cuyahoga Valley," who is said to haunt the river banks, and the "Cuyahoga Valley Witch," who is said to protect the valley from harm. These stories are part of the long and rich history of the park, and they help to make Cuyahoga Valley National Park a truly unique and special place.

RECOMMENDED

Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers some of the best hiking trails in the country. Here are the top 10 hikes at the park, ranked by difficulty and the number of miles:
1. Ledges Trail (Easy, 2 miles)
2. Brandywine Gorge Trail (Moderate, 2.8 miles)
3. Buckeye Trail (Moderate, 3.8 miles)
4. Lake Trail (Easy, 4 miles)
5. Boston Run Trail (Moderate, 5.2 miles)
6. Pine Lane Trail (Moderate, 5.4 miles)
7. Blue Hen Falls Trail (Moderate, 5.7 miles)
8. Indian Mound Trail (Moderate, 6.3 miles)
9. Oak Hill Trail (Difficult, 6.5 miles)
10. Hemlock Creek Trail (Difficult, 8.6 miles).

1. Take a Scenic Train Ride: Ride the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad and explore the park from the comfort of a vintage train car.

2. Hike the Trails: With over 125 miles of hiking trails, there is plenty of opportunity to explore the park on foot.

3. Go Bird Watching: Cuyahoga Valley is a great place to observe birds and other wildlife.

4. Visit the Howe Meadow Farm: Visit the farm and learn about traditional farming techniques.

5. Take a Bike Ride: With over 20 miles of bike trails, you can explore the park on two wheels.

6. Visit the Brandywine Falls: Enjoy the breathtaking views of the 65-foot waterfall.

7. Attend a Concert: The park hosts several concerts throughout the year, featuring a variety of musical acts.

8. See a Movie: Take in a classic movie under the stars in the summer months.

9. Have a Picnic: Pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic in one of the park’s scenic spots.

10. Take a Kayak Tour: Explore the park’s rivers and streams with a guided kayak tour.

GET HERE

PLAN YOUR VISIT

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a great place to explore and experience nature. Here are the top 10 things to do in the park:

1. Take a hike on one of the many trails.
2. Visit the Brandywine Falls to see the spectacular 70-foot waterfall.
3. Spend a day on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad.
4. Enjoy a picnic in one of the many scenic areas.
5. Spot wildlife at the Beaver Marsh.
6. Explore the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail.
7. Take a bike ride on the Ledges Trail.
8. Go bird watching at the Pine Lane Marsh.
9. Visit the canal locks at Canal Exploration Center.
10. Participate in one of the many educational programs offered at the park.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers a variety of camping opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are the top 10 campsites at the park:

1. Ledges Trail Campsite,

2. Brandywine Falls Campsite,

3. Stanford Campground,

4. Happy Days Campground,

5. Kendall Lake Campground,

6. Pine Lane Campground,

7. Beaver Marsh Campground,

8. Quail Hollow Campground,

9. Tinker’s Creek Campground,

10. Valley View Campground.

Each of these sites offers spectacular views of the park, as well as access to trails, fishing, and other recreational activities.

FIND A CAMPSITE

# OF VISITORS/MONTH

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a popular destination for visitors from around the world, and in 2019 it welcomed over 2.7 million visitors. On average, the park sees roughly 230,000 visitors per month, with the highest numbers of visitors in the months of July, August, and September. In 2019, the park’s busiest month was July, when it welcomed over 400,000 visitors. December is typically the least busy month for the park, with only about 125,000 visitors. No matter the season, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is an incredible place to explore and enjoy nature.