Photo: Kaja SWIEB
Photo: Admission
Photo: Teresa Martin
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
★4.8(14,294 reviews)FreeNature
🕑 3-5 hours for a relaxed visit including one waterfall and a short trail, or a full day if combining multiple hikes with a scenic railroad ride👶 Best for all ages. The paved Towpath Trail is perfect for toddlers in strollers and beginning cyclists, while elementary-aged kids love the Ledges Trail with its cool rock formations. Tweens and teens enjoy longer hikes to Blue Hen Falls and riding the scenic railroad.🧡 Saved by 500+ families
About
Cuyahoga Valley National Park is Ohio's stunning 33,000-acre natural playground offering families everything from easy, stroller-friendly paths along the historic Towpath Trail to the spectacular 65-foot Brandywine Falls. With over 125 miles of trails ranging from paved to moderate hikes, plus the beloved Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad that lets little legs rest while enjoying the scenery, this national park provides endless outdoor adventures without the crowds of more famous parks.
Highlights
- ✓Brandywine Falls - dramatic 65-foot waterfall with easy boardwalk access
- ✓Towpath Trail - flat, paved, stroller-friendly trail perfect for biking and walking
- ✓Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad with special kids' themed rides
- ✓Ledges Trail - exciting rock formations and overlooks that kids find adventurous
- ✓Junior Ranger program with activity books and badge rewards
Pro Tips
- 1.Start at Boston Mill Visitor Center for maps, junior ranger programs, and clean restrooms before heading out on trails
- 2.Park at Brandywine Falls parking lot for the easiest 10-minute walk to the falls on a boardwalk trail - it's the park's most kid-friendly waterfall access
- 3.Bring bikes for the flat, car-free Towpath Trail - rentals available at Century Cycles in Peninsula if you don't have your own
- 4.Download the free junior ranger booklet from the NPS website before your visit so kids can work on activities during your hike
- 5.Visit Peninsula village mid-adventure for ice cream and restroom breaks - it's centrally located and has several family-friendly stops
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings in spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) for the most pleasant weather, vibrant colors, and fewer crowds. Summer weekends get busy, especially at popular spots like Brandywine Falls, so arrive before 10am to snag parking.
What to Know
Admission is completely free with no entrance fees. Cell service can be spotty throughout the park, so download maps ahead of time. Most visitor centers have restrooms and water fountains, but bring snacks as food options within the park are limited to Peninsula village.
Seasonal Notes
Fall foliage (mid-October) is spectacular but attracts the biggest crowds. Winter offers peaceful snowshoeing and sledding at Kendall Hills, though some facilities close. Spring brings wildflowers and active waterfalls. The scenic railroad runs special events including Polar Express rides during holidays.
Nearby Eats
Fisher's Cafe & Pub in Peninsula (right in the park) offers casual family dining with burgers, sandwiches, and a kids' menu. The Winking Lizard in nearby Cuyahoga Falls has a huge menu including plenty of kid favorites and a fun atmosphere with patio seating.
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