Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a national park in Summit and Cuyahoga counties in Ohio between Cleveland and Akron and covers forests, meadows, and wetlands along the Cuyahoga River. Waterfalls in the park like Brandywine Falls drop over sandstone layers and attract visitors who enjoy views of the cascades from wooden platforms.

The Ohio and Erie Canal was built in the 1820s and brought commerce and settlements into the valley before railroads diminished its importance. The region was protected as a National Recreation Area in 1974 and gained national park status in 2000.

The Ledges form a natural formation that locals use for climbing and photography, while Winterhurst Manor serves as a venue for weddings and concerts. The Towpath Trail follows the former canal and lets visitors walk in the tracks where horses once pulled freight boats.

Visitor centers in Boston Mills and Peninsula offer maps and information about trails and activities throughout the valley. In winter some trails may become impassable with snow, while fall and spring provide milder weather for hiking and biking.

Beavers live in the park and build dams that create wetlands attracting waterfowl and amphibians. The Cuyahoga Scenic Railroad offers train rides through the valley and combines historic rail travel with nature observation.

Location: Summit County

Location: Cuyahoga County

Inception: October 11, 2000

Operator: National Park Service

Address: Ohio, USA

Phone: +14407173890

Website: https://nps.gov/cuva

GPS coordinates: 41.24167,-81.54972

Latest update: December 13, 2025 15:51