National Parks Journal
Photo: Erik Drost · CC BY 2.0
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Though a short distance from the urban areas of Cleveland and Akron, Cuyahoga Valley National Park seems worlds away. The park is a refuge for native plants and wildlife, and provides routes of discovery for visitors. The winding Cuyahoga River gives way to deep forests, rolling hills, and open farmlands. Walk or ride the Towpath Trail to follow the historic route of the Ohio & Erie Canal.
Entrance Fees
No entrance fee. Other fees may apply for tours, camping, or transportation.
Getting There
Roads and entrances can close temporarily. Check current conditions on nps.gov (opens in a new tab) before you go.
Entrances
- Directions to Boston Mill Visitor Center (opens in a new tab)
Boston Mill Visitor CenterMain
Peninsula, OH · Park open 24 hours year-round; visitor center hours vary
- Directions to Canal Exploration Center (opens in a new tab)
Canal Exploration Center
Valley View, OH · Seasonal hours
- Directions to Hunt House (opens in a new tab)
Hunt House
Peninsula, OH · Seasonal hours
Airports
- CLE
Cleveland Hopkins International Airport · Cleveland, OH
ClosestMajor airport
Distances are approximate road distances; tap a distance for live driving directions.
Activities
Top Hikes
1.8 mi · 80 ft gain · loop
Circles a plateau of striking Sharon Conglomerate rock formations with stunning overlooks. The park's most iconic trail.
Starts at: Ledges Trailhead
1.4 mi · 160 ft gain · loop
Circles a deep ravine with views of 65-foot Brandywine Falls, the tallest waterfall in the park.
Starts at: Brandywine Falls Parking Area
2.5 mi · 498 ft gain · out & back
Popular hilly hike through forest to the scenic 15-foot Blue Hen Falls.
Starts at: Boston Mill Visitor Center
19.5 mi · 135 ft gain · out & back
Flat, crushed limestone path following the historic Ohio & Erie Canal route. Accessible from 10 trailheads for hikes of any length.
Starts at: Multiple trailheads
Upcoming Events
Experience the Cuyahoga Valley at its most vibrant aboard the Fall Scenic Excursion. Just like the popular National Park Scenic rides, this seasonal favorite features additional Friday and Saturday departures, giving you even more opportunities to enjoy Northeast Ohio's spectacular autumn display. Guests may choose from two ride options to best fit their schedule and interests. The Classic 24-mile, round-trip ride departs from either the Rockside Depot or the Akron Northside Depot and lasts approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes. For guests seeking a shorter adventure, the Express rides depart from the Peninsula Depot and travel round trip either north to Rockside Depot and back or south to Akron Northside Depot and back. These rides last approximately 2 hours. A variety of seating options are available. Wheelchair accessible seating is available in the Karen C. Cooper car. Call 330-439-5708 for more information and to purchase tickets for this car. Visit the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad website for ticket information and the full train schedule.
Do you want to make a difference in Cuyahoga Valley National Park? Come out to our Habitat Restoration drop-in on October 22! Your efforts will help improve soil quality, restore native plants, and create better habitat for native wildlife. Suitable for ages 10 and up. Volunteers who are 10-15 years of age must have parent or guardian supervision at the project site. Volunteers who are 16-17 years of age are only required to have a parent or guardian sign their Volunteer Agreement form. **Advanced registration is required for all individuals. Group sizes are small, and have a strict attendance cap. Only volunteers who pre-registered will be permitted to participate. We will have a water cooler, please bring a refillable water bottle. ***This event is open to the public. If you are a corporate/school group looking to volunteer, please contact volunteer@forcvnp.org
The Peninsula Foundation presents Voices in the Valley, a showcase of traditional roots music. Held in the historic G.A.R Hall, Voices in the Valley celebrates roots music from local, national and international touring artists. Kick back, relax and join in for unforgettable performances! October 22 - Larry & Joe
Best Time to Visit Cuyahoga Valley
Best time to visit: May–June, September–October
The best time to visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park is May–June and September–October. The Towpath is comfortable for hiking and biking, with warm late-spring greenery and mid-October fall foliage.
In those months, average highs are 63–79°F at Boston Mill Visitor Center. Visitor numbers peak in July, though June is nearly as busy.
Monthly averages at Boston Mill Visitor Center (660 ft). Climate normals (1991–2020): PRISM Group, Oregon State University.
Weather & Climate
Spring's rain and warming temperatures bring new leaves on trees, blooming wildflowers, and visitors anxious to get out on the trail. Summer temperatures range from 49 to 95 degrees F and can be humid. Dressing in layers is advisable. Fall temperatures can range from low 70s during the day to freezing during the night. Fall foliage often peaks in mid-October. Winter weather conditions can rapidly change due to the lake effect snow from Lake Erie. Temperatures vary from mid-30s to below zero.
