National Parks

Cuyahoga Valley National Park: Ohio's Hidden National Treasure

Discover waterfalls, forests, and a scenic railway in the heart of Ohio — the most accessible and underrated national park in the Midwest.

Black location pin icon on a white background
Location:

Cuyahoga Valley National Park, OH

Black calendar icon with white date squares and two binder rings at the top
When to Visit:

Spring (April–May) for wildflowers and waterfall flows; fall (October) for brilliant foliage along the valley; summer for biking the towpath and rail excursions

Cuyahoga Valley National Park, OH Travel Recommendations

Inn at Brandywine Falls

Inn at Brandywine Falls

A charming historic inn inside Cuyahoga Valley National Park, steps from the iconic Brandywine Falls waterfall and miles of hiking trails.
Reserve
Stanford House Hostel – Cuyahoga Valley

Stanford House Hostel – Cuyahoga Valley

A historic and affordable hostel-style lodging inside Cuyahoga Valley National Park offering dormitory beds and private rooms in a scenic park setting.
Reserve
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad

A heritage railroad operating scenic excursions through Cuyahoga Valley National Park, the only train service that runs through a US national park.
Buy Tickets
Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail

Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail

A 20-mile flat trail through Cuyahoga Valley National Park following the historic Ohio & Erie Canal, ideal for cyclists and hikers of all skill levels.
Plan Your Visit
View more

Cuyahoga Valley National Park, OH Travel Tips

  • Start your visit at Brandywine Falls — it's a short 1.5-mile round trip hike and one of the most impressive waterfall sights in the Midwest, best visited in spring when flow is at its peak.
  • Rent a bike in Peninsula or Boston Mills and ride the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail — it's flat, scenic, and the best way to cover ground in the park without a car.
  • Book a seat on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad for a relaxed, narrated journey through the valley — it operates seasonally and themed excursions (fall foliage, holidays) sell out quickly.
  • The park has no entrance fee and no permit requirements — it's one of the most accessible national parks in the country, making last-minute visits easy.
  • The Ledges area in the south end of the park offers dramatic Sharon Conglomerate rock formations, excellent fall foliage views, and far fewer crowds than the northern trailheads.

Looking for a different kind of adventure?

Discover the best travel recommendations for over 100 locations in the U.S.