Cuyahoga Valley National Park is one of those amazing locations that you may miss if you aren’t specifically looking for an outdoor excursion while visiting North West Ohio. Located only a little over an hour north of Cleveland, this stunning sprawling 33,000-acre park lies beside the Cuyahoga River which flows between Cleveland and Akron. This park has a myriad of activities for whatever outdoor excursions one may be up for such as golfing, biking, hiking, fishing, and a variety of winter sports. I visited Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Mid-October and the park was in peak perfection. Due to slightly warmer weather than normal, it was in the high 60’s and completely clear. The foliage was utterly breathtaking with an array of bright yellows, oranges, and reds that flooded the senses as I walked the various parts of the park. Due to the large size of this park, I was only able to explore a portion of it but it was a completely memorable trip which I plan to take again in the near future.

Brandywine Waterfall

One of the most beautiful views that I encountered during my visit to Cuyahoga Valley National Park was the Brandywine Waterfall. This stunning waterfall is over 60 feet tall set on a small trail in the middle of a gorgeous forested area. This picturesque waterfall offers complete serenity and a view of nature that is truly extraordinary. The multiple viewing decks allow you to not only get a full panoramic view of the falls but also allow you to fully appreciate the size and splendor of this natural phenomenon. The walk is pretty easy and is accessible to most people who can walk a flat trail. There is a couple of sets of large stairs that should be noted if they are a challenge for you. The parking is very limited near the waterfall so plan accordingly when you are visiting the park, if not you may have a long hike ahead of you.

Beaver Marsh

One of my favorite locations at Cuyahoga National Park is the Beaver Marsh partially due to some of its most adorable inhabitants, beavers and river otters. Let’s be truthful, who doesn’t love otters? And to see them in their natural habitat? What else could you want? So beyond the amazing wildlife, this marsh is also one of the most diverse communities in the park and has many activities for one to partake in including bird watching, photography, and leisurely walks. Due to the popularity of this area, it is important to visit in either the early morning or late evening which will allow you to avoid the large crowds but also give you the best opportunity to see this location in full activity. 

The Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail

The Towpath Trail is a great way to see all of the natural beauty of Cuyahoga at your own pace. This path is open 24 hours a day so visitors are given the unique opportunity to explore the park’s natural wonders and its nocturnal inhabitants.  Towpath Trail is travel friendly for all visitors, with a concrete path and wooden walkways it is an easy walk for individuals or families and can even accommodate those with wheelchairs or strollers. To avoid crowds and get the full experience of this park, you are best to visit either in the early mornings, late evenings, or nights. You are less likely to have busy walkways and spend time dodging bicyclists and instead are able to enjoy the idyllic scenery and peace that comes along with this trail. 

The Ritchie Ledges

The Ritchie Ledges are a unique facet of Cuyahoga National Park. This natural stone landscape was created millions of years ago and has been slowly shaped by humans for the last few centuries. This unique area of the park gives you nearly two miles explore this one of a kind set of structures while enjoying the secluded beauty of its location in the park. This is also a great location to enjoy a beautiful sunrise or sunset at the overlook.