Cuyahoga Valley National Park Overview
Below are the 5 best hikes in Cuyahoga Valley National Park! Located between the cities of Cleveland and Akron, OH, Cuyahoga Valley is one of the more uniquely situated national parks in the US. This surprising undeveloped area was saved by conservationists from development and pollution for the sake of you and me. Although it isn’t the hiker’s dream park, there are several trails here worth a weekend trip.
| State | Ohio |
| Nearest Metro Area | Cleveland, OH |
| Area Size | 32,572 acres |
| Established | October 11, 2000 |
| Hiking Trails | 125 miles |
Thoughtful designs inspired by America’s National Parks.
The National Park Series — custom designs drawn from the landscape.
Trailhead Traveler’s Recommended Best Hikes in Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Ledges Trail
This scenic trail, easily top of the best hikes in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, passes through sandstone cliffs known as Ritchie Ledges. Make sure you bring some sure-footed hiking boots as you’ll pass over rocky ground and a rock staircase. You can continue on the Pine Grove Trail to make the loop longer. The trailhead is located at the Ledges Parking Area off Kendall Park Road.
- 2.2 mile loop
- 100′ elevation gain
- Easy
Brandywine Gorge Loop
The 65′ Brandywine Falls is one of the largest and most beautiful in the park and one of the park’s most popular attractions. This trail and the nearby boardwalk will put you right next to the falls. The trailhead is located at the Brandywine Falls Parking Area off of Brandywine Road.
- 1.4 mile loop
- 150′ elevation gain
- Easy
Blue Hen Falls Trail
This trail will lead you to both the Blue Hen Falls and the slightly more impressive Buttermilk Falls. Go right after a rainfall to get the best of what these 2 falls have to offer. The trailhead is located on Boston Mills Road, there is a small overflow lot where you can park.
- 1.5 miles out and back
- 200′ elevation gain
- Easy
Deer Lick Cave Loop
This is a more secluded trail through a scenic wooded area. The trailhead is located off of Valley Parkway.
- 3.5 mile loop
- 500′ elevation gain
- Moderate
Towpath Trail
The Ohio & Erie Towpath Trail travels the entire Cuyahoga Valley National Park from North to South. You can decide to hike/bike the entire length of the park or just a portion along the Cuyahoga River. Within the park, trailheads are located at either Rockside Station or Botzum Station, although you can access the trail from several other points along the way.
- 21 miles one-way
- 200′ elevation gain
- Easy
Featured Image: Photo by Chris Haffler
Don’t forget to stock up on the essentials before you plan your next hiking or camping trip! We have recommendations on:
TENTS
HIKING BOOTS
AND MORE!