Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Even though it's close to Cleveland and Akron, this valley feels like a world away. This place is a refuge for native plants and wildlife that provides many ways for people to discover their beauty. The awesome winding river makes way to deep forests, rolling hills, and open farmlands. You can walk or ride along the Towpath Trail here to find more about the historic route of the Erie and Ohio Canal.

At a glance
Hours Open 24 hours
Alerts 3 active
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Current Park Alerts

Live from the National Park Service · Official park site →

Plan Your Visit

Hours & Season

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is open everyday, 24 hours a day with the following exceptions: Brandywine Falls, Ledges, Octagon, Kendall Lake, and Kendall Hills close from dusk until morning opening.

Weather

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.

Things to Do

Go Mountain Biking in Cuyahoga Valley
Go Mountain Biking in Cuyahoga Valley

The East Rim Trail system has stunning views, varied terrain, exciting obstacles, and an element of adventure for intermediate mountain bikers.

Ride the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
Ride the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
Reservation required

All aboard the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad! Learn more about this unique way to experience Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

Go Snowshoeing in the Cuyahoga Valley
Go Snowshoeing in the Cuyahoga Valley

Snowshoeing is a great way to explore and exercise in Cuyahoga Valley National Park when the conditions are right. We recommend waiting for there to be at least four inches of packed snow on the trail.

Hike the Brandywine Gorge Loop
Hike the Brandywine Gorge Loop

The Brandywine Gorge Loop circles a deep ravine carved by Brandywine Creek, and provides stunning views of Brandywine Falls along the way. Learn more about hiking this popular trail.

Become a Cuyahoga Valley Junior Ranger
Become a Cuyahoga Valley Junior Ranger

Learn how kids ages 3 and older can become Junior Rangers of Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

Hike the Ledges Trail
Hike the Ledges Trail

The Ledges Trail circles a plateau of striking rock formations and provides stunning views along the way. Learn more about hiking this popular trail.

Getting There

Address: Boston Mill Visitor Center Peninsula OH 44264

The park is easily accessible by car from all directions. A good place to start your visit is at Boston Mill Visitor Center: 6947 Riverview Road, Peninsula, 44264. Cleveland Hopkins International Airport and Akron-Canton Regional Airport offer many daily flights to the area. Car rentals are available at both airports. Bus stations are located in downtown Cleveland and Akron. Some local bus routes including RTA's 19A, 54, 77, and 90 routes stop near the park. There is an Amtrak station in downtown Cleveland.

Get driving directions → Official NPS directions →

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation or permit to visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park?

Some entry windows or activities at Cuyahoga Valley National Park require a reservation or permit. Check the Current Park Alerts and Things to Do sections above, and confirm on the official NPS site before you go.

When is Cuyahoga Valley National Park open?

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is open everyday, 24 hours a day with the following exceptions: Brandywine Falls, Ledges, Octagon, Kendall Lake, and Kendall Hills close from dusk until morning opening.

What are the best things to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park?

Popular things to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park include Go Mountain Biking in Cuyahoga Valley, Ride the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, Go Snowshoeing in the Cuyahoga Valley, Hike the Brandywine Gorge Loop. See Things to Do above for photos and details.