Must-Do Hikes in Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Hotels near Cuyahoga Valley National Park allow you to stay close to a vast amount of hiking trails. From basic walks for beginners and families to demanding treks traversing woodland, there is something for everybody.
-
1. Ledges Trail
Among the park's most popular trails, this 2.2-mile loop offers some spectacular outlooks, like the cliff ledge overlook. The rocky ground requires proper footwear.
-
2. Brandywine Gorge Trail
This 1.5-mile trail is a main highlight of the park, leading visitors along the gorge past roaring waterfalls and iconic rock pools.
-
3. Buckeye Trail
The Buckeye Trail is an amazing way to explore the nature of Ohio. Parts of this 1,400-mile multi-day trek snakes through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
-
4. Salt Run Trail
This 3.4-mile hike passes through alternating woodlands, meadows, and highlands and is usually less visited than other alternatives in the park. This remoteness gives you higher chances to spot deer, coyotes, turkeys, and other birds along the way.
Best Outdoor Adventures in Cuyahoga Valley National Park
As soon as you leave one of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park cabins, you’ll find yourself with a variety of activities to choose from. The Cuyahoga River and the various lakes around allow for plenty of water sports. If the water isn't your calling, discover the park on foot or horseback. As an alternative, why not tee off on one of the 18-hole golf courses in the area.
-
1. Canoeing and Kayaking
Whether you want to experience the park from a lake, pond, or the Cuyahoga River, all you need is a canoe or kayak and let yourself be impressed by the surrounding wooded parklands.
-
2. Golfing
You will find four different golf courses in this beautiful park. The Brookledge Golf Club is ranked as the ninth best golf course in Ohio – it’s no wonder that it’s a favorite among visitors.
-
3. Bird Watching
Bird watchers are in for a treat at this park, with 250 species of birds to look for, including songbirds, great blue herons, and ten kinds of raptors.
-
4. Fishing
Visitors will be able to find bluegill, bass, and crappie at the ponds and lakes; whereas the river provides anglers with opportunities to catch steelhead trouts and bullhead. Note that the poor water quality means you should limit your fish consumption. The park encourages catch-and-release fishing to keep populations healthy.
-
5. Biking
For those who prefer two wheels over two feet will be able to choose from five different bike trails in the Cuyahoga Valley. A popular itinerary is to ride down the Towpath Trail and make their way back on the scenic train.
Best Family Activities in Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park cabins offer the perfect place to stay for your whole family. From here, it is just a short distance to activities suitable for visitors of all ages.
-
1. Family Hikes
There are a lot of trails catering to families. They range from a distance of 0.5 miles to 2.7 miles. Among the favorites for young visitors are the Haskell Run Trail, Tree Farm Trail, Blue Hen Trail, and Station Road Trail.
-
2. Questing
40 quests boxes are hidden in the Ohio & Erie Canalway. Explore the area's treasures while solving clues and following a curious map. You can find the quests and more information at the Boston Store Visitor Center.
-
3. Picnic in the Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park has plenty of picnic spots suitable for small or large family get-togethers. All are equipped with tables and grill areas.
-
4. Horse Trails
A different way to enjoy the countryside is from the back of a horse. However, make sure not to leave the marked trails and note that horses have to be rented outside Cuyahoga Valley.
-
5. Scenic Train Ride
A favorite adventure for little ones is the scenic train ride that takes you back in time. Board the vintage railway in Independence and enjoy the view from the window as you pass the unique landscape of the Cuyahoga Valley all the way to Akron. Since your pass is valid the whole day you can hop-on and off at any stop you want.