Best Things To Do In Cuyahoga Valley National Park + Itinerary

I’m on a mission to visit every US National Park! There are 63 (and 8 are in Alaska!) so it’s a pretty ambitious goal. There are several parks located within a days drive of each other between the Northeast and Midwest, so I recruited my mom and planned out a road trip to see all of them!

Our first stop was Cuyahoga Valley National Park and it did not disappoint! While it’s a bit different than what I’d typically expect from a National Park, I still found that there was an abundance of things to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

In this article:

The best things to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Best hikes and waterfalls
How to get there & where to stay
My Cuyahoga Valley itinerary recommendations

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Cuyahoga Valley National Park Overview

‍✈️ How To Get There: From Cleveland (30 mins) or Pittsburgh (<2 hrs)
🌿 Cuyahoga Must-See: Bradywine Falls, Ledges Trail, Historic Train Ride
💵 Entrance Fee: Free to enter
🛌 Where To Stay: Drury Plaza Hotel in downtown Cleveland or a vacation rental in Peninsula

TIP: I recommend booking your rental car with Discover Cars. As one of the largest rental car companies, they negotiate the best rates to save you money. They also let you cancel for free up to 48 hours before your pickup, so you can grab a good rate now without stressing if your plans change.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a bit different than most National Parks. It’s one of the least remote parks (yay cell service just about anywhere you go!) so there are plenty of conveniences nearby, like gas refills or affordable accommodations.

It’s also not one congruent piece of land, so expect to drive in and out of residential areas and smaller towns as you move from one area of the park to another.

A wooden boardwalk winds along a moss-covered rock ledge through a sunlit forest in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Hiking this scenic trail is a must on any best things to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park itinerary.

Cuyahoga Valley was established as a National Recreation Area in 1974 as a way to prevent urban sprawl and to protect 25 miles along the Cuyahoga River.

Because much of the land that now makes up Cuyahoga Valley National Park was privately owned prior to the parks inception, there has been an ongoing effort to expand the park boarders over the past few decades. This means the park land isn’t congruent, but as more land is purchased or donated the holes on the map are filled in.

The Cuyahoga River also has a long history, including its contribution to the Ohio and Erie Canalways. Unfortunately, it’s history includes quite a bit of water pollution, too. Since it’s designation as a National Recreation Area there’s been significant progress towards cleaner water and conservation efforts.

In 2000, Cuyahoga Valley was promoted to National Park status. 🎉

A sun-dappled forest along Ledges trail in Cuyahoga Valley National Park runs beside towering, weathered rock formations with deep textures and moss patches. Hiking this scenic path is a popular highlight on the best things to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park itinerary.

Best Things To Do In Cuyahoga Valley National Park

There are so many great things to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, so no matter what your interest is I’m positive you’ll have a great time!

The highlights from my trip included hiking Ledges and a Mothers Day themed scenic train ride with my mom.

Best Cuyahoga Valley National Park Hiking Trails

Ledges Trail

🥾 Ledges Trail Guide – 2.4 miles

A shaded forest trail in Cuyahoga Valley National Park winds past large mossy rock formations and a wooden bridge, with sunlight filtering through the trees. This peaceful hike is a scenic favorite on the best things to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park itinerary.

This is a loop trail through some of the most stunning landscapes in Cuyahoga Valley. There are tons of caves and nooks to explore so add some extra time to deviate from the trail.

While there isn’t much elevation change on this path, the ground is full of tree roots and rocks so wear sturdy shoes. If you’re a bit unsteady on your feet or have trouble with balance you might want trekking poles for this one.

There’s a ton of parking at this trailhead. There’s also a large open field next to the parking lot that makes a perfect spot for a post hike picnic.

Wide grassy field bordered by trees under a clear blue sky in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, with soft sunlight streaming through the branches. This open green space is ideal for relaxing or picnicking and is a peaceful stop on the best things to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park itinerary.

<< Read More: Best Hiking Gear For Beginners >>

Blue Hen Falls

🥾 Blue Hen Falls Trail Guide – 2.5 miles

The trail to Blue Hen Falls follows the Buckeye Trail. It has quite a bit of elevation gain – about 500 feet. While the falls are beautiful, be prepared for the initial section of this trail to be subpar as it follows the highway for a short while.

If you’d like to add a second waterfall in Cuyahoga Valley you can extend this trail to Buttermilk Falls. Although it’s not technically an official trail, there’s enough hikes to Buttermilk Falls that the path is fairly easy to follow. To reach Buttermilk Falls you’ll follow the spur path along the river about half a mile past Blue Hen Falls.

Brandywine Gorge Trail

🥾 Brandywine Gorge Trail Guide – 1.4 miles

A wooden boardwalk with railings winds through lush green forest toward Brandywine Falls in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, partially visible through the trees. This scenic walkway leads to one of the top attractions on the best things to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park itinerary.

This is one of the most famous Cuyahoga Valley National Park waterfalls. There’s a 1.4 mile loop trail you can take, or if you’re short on time you can head straight to the falls and back which is only 0.3 miles.

The last stretch before the falls follows a wooden boardwalk. When wet, it can be a bit slippery. There are also several sets of steps down to the viewing platform.

A tall wooden staircase ascends from Brandywine Falls through a forested area in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, with sunlight peeking through the trees above. Climbing this stairway leads to scenic views and is part of the adventure in the best things to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park itinerary.

TIP: The view from the lower platform is better. There’s less foliage obstructing your view of the falls.

Deer Lick Cave

🥾 Deer Lick Cave Trail Guide – 4.1 miles

Deer Lick Cave trail is a good option if you want a longer hike in Cuyahoga Valley National Park without too much of a challenge. Over 4 miles there’s about 400 feet of elevation change on this trail.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park Waterfall

There are several fantastic waterfalls in Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

As previously noted, Brandywine Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls. There are a few trails that lead here, with the shortest being just 0.3 miles from the parking lot.

Brandywine Falls cascades powerfully over a rocky cliff surrounded by lush greenery in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Visiting this iconic waterfall is one of the best things to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park itinerary.

Blue Hen Falls is another picturesque Cuyahoga Valley National Park waterfall. You must hike 2.5 miles round trip to reach it. While the trail itself isn’t too exciting, the falls are beautiful.

Just past Blue Hen Falls is a lesser known waterfall in Cuyahoga Valley… Buttermilk Falls is half a mile past Blue Hen Falls on an unofficial, but well marked trail following the river.

Bridal Veil Falls Overlook is another easy waterfall to get to in Cuyahoga Valley. It’s a fairly flat path and just under half a mile round trip. Springtime is the best time for this hike when the water levels are highest.

A quiet cascade flows over layered rock surrounded by dense green forest in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, with a wooden bridge visible in the distance. This peaceful woodland stream is a scenic and relaxing stop on the best things to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park itinerary.

And finally, Linda Falls is another great option. It’s under 2 miles roundtrip through shaded forest with an easy path and an interesting bowl-shaped waterfall at the end.

Free Things To Do In Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Boston Mill Visitor Center

This is the primary visitor center in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Because there is no entrance fee for Cuyahoga Valley, there are also no entrance stations. That means the only way to get park maps, newsletters or other literature is to stop by the visitor centers.

Originally built in 1905, the building operated as the Cleveland-Akron Bag Company general store. In 2019, it was officially opened as the Boston Mill Visitor Center.

Everett Covered Bridge

A charming red covered bridge surrounded by lush green trees under a bright blue sky in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. This scenic spot is a peaceful stop often included in the best things to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park itineraries.

The exact origin date is unknown, but is estimated the bridge was built between 1867 and 1880. Many think the reason behind its existence is an unfortunate drowning of John Gilson, a local farmer, during a difficult river crossing.

Today, it’s the only remaining covered bridge in the county. Although at the time it was built it was one of over 2,000 in the state.

Beaver Marsh Boardwalk

A quiet wetland area in Beaver Marsh at Cuyahoga Valley National Park with still water reflecting bare trees and dry vegetation under a blue sky. This tranquil scene offers a chance for wildlife viewing and peaceful reflection on the best things to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park itinerary.

Beaver Marsh can be seen from the elevated boardwalk path. It crosses the marsh so you can easily spot wildlife like turtles, beavers, frogs and birds.

This area was not always a marsh, though. In the 1970’s, beavers finally began to return to Ohio after trapped out for their fur and absent for decades. The dams created by the return of beavers lead to the marsh filling with water.

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Best Things To Do In Cuyahoga Valley National Park Besides Hiking

A vintage silver and red train stopped at a small station in Cuyahoga Valley National Park with a conductor standing by the entrance. Riding the scenic Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad is one of the best things to do in a Cuyahoga Valley National Park itinerary.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park Train

The Cuyahoga Valley National Park train is one of the best things to do on your trip! It’s full of history and is a great way to see a lot of the park in a short period of time.

The train runs between Rockside station and Akron Northside station. In total, it’s 26 miles long.

During our trip to Cuyahoga Valley in May, my mom and I were able to catch the Mothers Day themed train ride. We both really enjoyed the tea party car. They served light snacks and tea, and the staff was super friendly.

Inside view of a Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad car with a cozy table set for tea between two pairs of plush seats, featuring china cups, pastries, and a vase of pink lilies. Enjoying afternoon tea onboard is a unique and relaxing highlight on the best things to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park itinerary.

Overhead view of a delicate floral china teacup and saucer on a white tablecloth, next to a teacup-shaped decorated sugar cookie, vintage train tickets, and a small bird’s nest decoration. This charming tea setup adds a whimsical touch to the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad experience, a memorable stop on the best things to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park itinerary.

Throughout the year, there are other themed excursions you can participate in, like the North Pole Adventure in December or Grape Escape wine tasting in the summer.

Year-round you can buy tickets for the National Parks train. The longer 3-hour ride takes you the full 26 miles from Rockside Station to Akron Northside station. There’s also an option for a shorter 2-hour ride that covers half the distance and starts in the middle at Peninsula Depot.

Check out the calendar to see what will be available during your trip to Cuyahoga Valley!

One of the coolest features of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park train is that you can take it one-way for $5 and then bike back along the Towpath on your own.

The one-way program is called Explorer (formerly Bike Abroad), and it’s available during the summer. Starting in mid-May, the program is available Friday through Sunday. Starting June 1st it runs Wednesday through Sunday until the season closes at the end of October.

While you can’t hop on and off, you can pick whichever stations you want to start and end at and simply flag down the train (they won’t stop at Brecksville or Boston Mill unless you signal to them from the platform), then pay your $5 per person when you board. There’s no need to book your ticket in advance for the Explorer program!

A black, red, and yellow Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad engine with the words “Preserved in Memory of Charles A. Morgan Jr.” painted on the side, parked on sunlit tracks. Riding this historic train is a standout experience on the best things to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park itinerary.

This map shows the station lineup and distances between each one. The towpath trail hugs this route and is accessible from each stop!

Stylized train route map of Cuyahoga Valley National Park train showing stops from north to south: Rockside Road, Canal Visitor Center, Brecksville, Boston Mill, Peninsula Depot, Indigo Lake, Botzum, and Akron Northside. Green markers on the side indicate distances between stops, useful for planning the best things to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park itinerary.

NOTE: E-bikes are not permitted on the train.

Inside the small historic train station in Peninsula, Ohio with green and yellow walls, vintage lanterns, wooden furniture, and railroad memorabilia, with visitors visible outside the open door. Exploring this nostalgic Peninsula depot is a charming addition to the best things to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park itinerary. — Peninsula Depot

Scenic Drives In Cuyahoga Valley

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is fairly long and narrow, so driving from the north end to the south end is a perfect way to see most of the park.

Riverview Road is a nearly contiguous road that cuts through the middle of the park and hugs the river for some beautiful views along the roughly 25-mile stretch.

If you’re driving south, starting at the north end, you’ll approach these locations in order:

Chippewa Creek Gorge Overlook
Bridal Veil Falls
Great Falls of Tinkers Creek
Boston Store Visitor Center
Brandywine Falls
Brecksville Nature Center
Station Road Bridge
Jaite Mill Historic District
Deep Lock Quarry Metro Park
Everett Covered Bridge
Hale Farm & Village

TIP: Download this self-guided driving tour before your trip! It’s just like having a tour guide to point out landmarks, interesting history, settlers stories, geological explanations, etc — except for a fraction of the cost (less than $20), on your own schedule and without any crowds.

Once you download it to your phone, the guide uses your GPS signal to automatically play whenever you’re near a landmark, so it still works even without cell service. You can listen from your own vehicle or while riding the train.

Rocky overlook in Cuyahoga Valley National Park with large flat stones and a sweeping view of green treetops under a bright afternoon sun. This scenic viewpoint is a rewarding stop on the best things to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park itinerary.

Bike The Towpath Trail

Towpath Trail in Cuyahoga Valley National Park is part of the larger 100+ mile Ohio & Erie Canalway. It’s a multi-use path that’s perfect for biking because it’s wide and flat, and follows the Cuyahoga River.

Like I mentioned in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park train section above, it’s possible to bike this route one-way and then take the train back for $5!

TIP: If you don’t have your own bike, you can rent one at Outspoken E-Bike Rentals near Akron or Blimp City Bike & Hike.

Just remember that e-bikes are not allowed on the train! To participate in the Explorer program you’ll need a traditional bicycle.

Check Out The Local Farmers Market

Szalay’s Farm & Market is open daily from early June through late October each year. They originally opened in 1931 as a vegetable stand, but have grown a lot since then.

They are now a specialized sweet corn farm and an old-fashion farm market offering local fruits, vegetables, sweet treats and many homemade items.

You can also get delicious roasted corn on the cob, grilled sandwiches, ice cream cones, and fresh lemonade during the summer. It’s a great place to stop for lunch on your way to Everett Covered Bridge or Beaver Marsh.

From mid September through late October they have fall festivities, including a corn maze. You can also shop for pumpkins, chestnuts, local honey and maple syrup as well as apples and fresh apple cider.

TIP: Szalay’s is located along the Towpath near Everett Covered Bridge. If you time your walk or bike plans well you can stop by the market for a delicious lunch!

How Many Days In Cuyahoga Valley National Park Do You Need?

You can definitely see the best of Cuyahoga Valley National Park with just one or two days.

If you have more time, there are many fun things to do in the surrounding areas, including spending the day exploring Cleveland.

Or, if you want to turn your trip into a National Park road trip, Indiana Dunes National Park is just under 5 hours from Cuyahoga Valley. I would also highly recommend New River Gorge National Park which is about the same distance.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park Itinerary

These are the Cuyahoga Valley itineraries I would recommend for 1 or 2 days in the park.

One Day At Cuyahoga Valley National Park Itinerary

Get an early start to the day so you can maximize your time in the park! You can do these activities in any order you prefer, but if you’re traveling during the hot summer months I’d hike in the morning before the afternoon heat sets in.

1 Day Cuyahoga Valley Itinerary

Ledges Trail, an easy, shaded, 2.4 mile loop through the neatest natural features in Cuyahoga Valley.
Brandywine Falls, the most iconic waterfall in Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a 1.4 mile loop or can be accessed via a 0.3 mile shortcut.
Cuyahoga Valley Train Ride, take the 2 hour National Park ride from Peninsula Depot to Akron for some beautiful river views.
Everett Covered Bridge, a quick stop with Beaver Marsh Boardwalk just down the road. During the summers you can also catch Szalay’s market.

Two Days At Cuyahoga Valley National Park Itinerary

Day 1 of 2

Boston Mill Visitor Center, stop in to speak with a ranger, get your National Parks passport stamped, and pick up free paper trail maps.
Blue Hen Falls trailhead starts from Boston Mill. It’s 2.5 miles round trip to the falls, or add another 1 mile and include Buttermilk Falls.
Ledges Trail, an easy, shaded, 2.4 mile loop through the neatest natural features in Cuyahoga Valley.
Explore Cleveland, it’s just half an hour from Cuyahoga Valley with plenty of restaurants, hotels and things to do.

Day 2 of 2

Brandywine Falls in the morning is a good way to beat the crowds (esp. with a smaller parking area) and it’s an easy 1.4 mi loop to start the day.
Bike Towpath Trail, catch the $5 train one-way from Peninsula to Akron Northside, then bike back to Peninsula.
Salzay’s Market is along your bike route and the perfect place to stop for lunch and some locally grown or made goodies.
Beaver Marsh, you’ll pass right over this on your bike trip. It’s a great place to stop and spot some wildlife.
Everett Covered Bridge, a short detour from Szalay’s market to a historic spot.

Two women smiling in front of Brandywine Falls in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, with an informational sign and the waterfall cascading down a rocky cliff in the background. Taking a photo at this popular viewpoint is a classic moment on the best things to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park itinerary.

Where To Stay Near Cuyahoga Valley National Park

I think the two best options when deciding where to stay in Cuyahoga Valley National Park are either Cleveland (about 30 minutes away) or Peninsula (center of the park).

We chose to stay in Peninsula because I wanted to maximize my time in Cuyahoga Valley. It’s a fairly small town with limited options (rentals but no hotels), but if you’re planning a few months in advance you should be able to snag a reservation!

There are several vacation rentals in town that are very walkable. This beautiful historic barn has been renovated into a unique luxury rental. Or, if you have a larger group, this waterfront property sleeps 6.

I highly recommend grabbing an iced coffee from Peninsula Coffee House & Market in the village! I loved the vibes here, and the coffee was delicious. I’ve also heard great things about Winking Lizard for dinner (although we arrived late and opted for sandwiches around a campfire.)

Exterior of Peninsula Coffee House and Market, a cozy brick building with large windows, potted flowers on the steps, and a glowing “Open” sign in the window. Grabbing a local iced coffee here is a relaxing and tasty stop on the best things to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park itinerary.

Interior of Peninsula Coffee House showing a marble counter with baked goods, syrups, and milk, while a barista prepares drinks under warm pendant lights. Stopping here for a coffee and treat is a cozy highlight on the best things to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park itinerary.

There are two great options for camping in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, too! We stayed at Heritage Farms, which is a privately owned Christmas tree farm.

During the summer they operate as a campground. I loved staying here (even with the near freezing night temperatures in early May) because the campsites are so spread out that it feels really private and quiet, but you’re still a 4-minute drive from downtown Peninsula.

A glowing campfire burns in a metal fire ring surrounded by grassy fields and rows of small evergreen trees at sunset in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Winding down with a peaceful campfire in nature is a perfect way to end a day of exploring the best things to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park itinerary.

A peaceful campsite in Cuyahoga Valley National Park featuring a wooden shelter, a picnic table, and a fire ring surrounded by grassy fields and young pine trees. Camping here is a scenic and relaxing option on the best things to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park itinerary.

The second option for camping in Cuyahoga Valley is Valley Overlook campgrounds. They offer a variety of small cabins, glamping tents and primitive sites.

If you’re looking for a full service hotel, head into Cleveland! There are several fantastic hotels (at surprisingly reasonable rates), and you’ll have a bigger selection of restaurants, too.

✨ Fidelity Hotel – mid-range with a swanky vibe
✨ Drury Plaza Hotel – a stunning hotel in a renovated 1931 historic building

Best Time To Visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park

The best time to visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park is between June and September. During the summer months, days are longer and more services are available and open. You’ll have more daylight to explore and more options for the best things to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

The Boston Mill Visitor Center in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, a white two-story building with green trim and a National Park Service emblem, sits beside railroad tracks under a clear blue sky. This is a key starting point for planning the best things to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park itinerary.

I visited in May, and while days were comfortable, they were not hot. It was also not an ideal time to camp because nights were dropping to near freezing temperatures (this is the coldest place I’ve ever camped and I’m not sure I’d want to do it again, haha).

The best part about visiting in the spring was the waterfalls in Cuyahoga Valley National Park! Spring snow melt and showers fuels some very full falls.

October is a great time to visit if you want to see some fall colors, although I think a road trip through New England is a better way to spot vibrant fall foliage!