Nestled just south of Cleveland, Ohio, you wouldn’t expect to find a National Park. But sure enough Mid-Ohio offers some gorgeous nature, miles of trails, and plenty of waterfalls. There is so much to do, whether you’re hiking in Cuyahoga Valley, biking, or just exploring! This park is the perfect weekend trip, 3-4 days is the perfect amount of time
Lodging in the Cuyahoga Valley
There are numerous hotels and great AirBnB’s in the area. Unfortunately, there is no camping allowed in the park. Another great part about Cuyahoga Valley’s location is that you’re not too far from civilization. There are plenty of gas stations, grocery stores, shopping centers, and restaurants all nearby.
These are some of the best hikes to do in and around Cuyahoga Valley National Park!
Starting with hiking Cuyahoga Valley:
The Ledges
This is by far the coolest hike (IMO). With over 2 miles of trails around rock formations, gorges, and caves this hike is a must do! This is a loop hike, with just over 200ft of elevation change.
Brandywine Falls
This is probably the most popular spot in the park, featuring the largest waterfall! There are three view points of the falls and then a nice 1.4 mile loop hike around the river/gorge with just over 100ft of elevation change. Plan to get here extra early as this parking lot can fill up quickly! There are additional trails that can be found from the loop, allowing for even more hiking throughout Cuyahoga Valley.
Blue Hen Falls
Blue Hen Falls is an extremely underrated hike! My sister said she loved these falls more than Brandywine. An awesome aspect is that you can get right up close and personal with these falls!
Currently (spring 2021) this hike is slightly longer than normal. The parking lot is closed for Blue Hen falls and so an alternative route from the visitors center is up! This is just under 3 miles roundtrip, however, the NPS stated it was 200 ft of elevation change and we clocked almost 600ft of elevation change, so be prepared! (The AllTrails app seems fairly accurate)
Plateau/Oak Hill Trailhead
I didn’t hike this trail the first time I came to Cuyahoga, but I’m so glad my sister and I did this time. This was a perfect mid-day hike. Minimal elevation change, beautiful mature forests, rows of pines, and two lakes. This area is far less crowded than other trails throughout the park.
Now for hiking nearby Cuyahoga Valley:
Located just north of Cuyahoga Valley is the Bedford Reservation. A huge gorgeous stretch of nature with numerous trail. The Bridle Trail runs just along a river reaching Bridal Veil Falls. These trails can be treated as an out-and-back, or if you have a car to park at one trail head at the start and one at the end that’s a perfect option.