Cuyahoga Valley National Park is one of the most beautiful parks in the U.S. It is the only national park in the state of Ohio. The park follows part of the Cuyahoga River between the cities of Cleveland and Akron. If you would like to know more about the history of the canal/lock system of that area, this would be the right place for you. The park is a must visit for hikers and nature lovers for its breathtaking waterfalls and trails. Here we have mentioned the top places to visit in Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
The Ohio And Erie Canal Towpath Trail
The Ohio & Erie Canalway is a National Heritage Area designated by Congress. The area is preserved to help the rails, trails, landscapes, towns and sites that grew up along the first 110 miles of the canal. If you like to go birding, biking, hiking, running, riding on horseback, or taking a canal boat ride, the Towpath Trail is the perfect trail.
The perfect way to explore the park is by bicycling, running, or walking on the Towpath Trail. You get to travel the historic route of the Ohio & Erie Canal. The trail has many connections to natural sites. You also get to go through the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad.
Brandywine Falls
Brandywine Falls trail is a 1.5-mile loop that features a waterfall. The trail takes you down to creek level. The best time to visit the trail is in the spring you get to view vernal pools that are filled with water. As you hike along the trail you get the views of the creek and the layers of rock. Brandywine Falls is a 65-foot falls with a spectacular view
There is a parking lot at Brandywine Falls that offers plenty of space to park. There are bathrooms and park maps at the entrance. Brandywine Falls is one of the most visited sites in the park. It is easy to access and good for all levels of hikers. The breathtaking visit is worth the visit.
Bridal Veil Falls
Bridal Veil Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the park. A short walk along Deerlick Creek, leads you down to the boardwalk and steps. The trail ends at the stunning view of Bridal Veil Falls. The waterfall is surrounded by hardwoods and hemlocks.
The trail is 0.64 km which is considered to be easy to hike. It takes 15 minutes to complete the trail. It will take you more time to view the beautiful falls. If you like to go for a longer hike continue on the trail that goes over the creek for a mile that leads to Tinkers Creek Gorge Overlook.
Ledges Trail
Ledges Trail is the best hike in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. The trail is known for its breathtaking scenic overlook and the trail that leads you through the woods and impressive rock formations. The trail has many places to explore. The path has uneven terrain and some stairs. The trail circles around a sandstone outcrop with towering cliffs. The trail is 1.8-mile and you can extend your hike which connects to more trails. There are several picnic tables located near the parking area and the scenic overlook which is the best place to relax.