Popular types of activities in Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Updated April 26th, 2022
Buckeye Trail marker
Image credit: PapaBear / 123rf

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a national park located in northeast Ohio, between Akron and Cleveland. The park is known for its activities to do, which include hiking, biking, horseback riding, and canoeing. The park also has a variety of other attractions, such as the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, the Ledges Trail, and the Brandywine Falls.

1. Hiking

The Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a beautiful and serene area to hike in. The trails are well-maintained and often offer views of the valley and surrounding hills. The park can be quite hot during the summer, so be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen.

2. Biking

There is a great variety of biking trails in and near the park. The park is criss-crossed with multi-use trails that are perfect for mountain biking, road biking, and hybrids. The trails are well-maintained and the scenery is beautiful.

3. Bird watching

When bird watching in or near Cuyahoga Valley National Park, you may expect to see a variety of birds, including hawks, eagles, vultures, and ospreys. You may also see blue jays, cardinals, crows, and ravens.

4. Fishing

When fishing in or near Cuyahoga Valley National Park, expect to find a variety of fish in both the rivers and lakes. Some of the more common species you may encounter include largemouth and smallmouth bass, rainbow and brown trout, and black crappie. Keep an eye out for anglers fishing for walleye, perch, and catfish.

5. Canoeing

The Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers a scenic and peaceful canoeing experience on the Cuyahoga River. You may see wildlife such as white-tailed deer, American black bear, and eastern gray squirrel, as well as a variety of bird species. The park is also home to a variety of geological features, including the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad and the Seven Sisters.

6. Kayaking

Kayaking in or near Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the park. You will likely see a variety of wildlife while kayaking, including bald eagles, ospreys, and river otters. You may also see trout swimming in the river or frogs and other amphibians hopping around in the wetlands.

7. Picnicking

Picnicking in or near Cuyahoga Valley National Park can be a pleasant experience, as long as you plan ahead and prepare for the weather. The park is located in the northeastern United States, near the border of Pennsylvania and Ohio, so you can expect hot, humid summers and cold, crisp winters. Make sure to bring adequate supplies of food, water, and shelter, and be aware of the park's wildlife. Bring along a binoculars or a telescope to view the wildlife up close.

8. Visiting the visitor center

The visitor center in or near Cuyahoga Valley National Park typically contains exhibits on the park's flora and fauna, as well as information about the park's history and attractions. There may also be exhibits on regional history and geology. The visitor center may also offer exhibits on how to enjoy the park's many attractions, such as hiking trails and campgrounds.

9. Going on a ranger-led program

A ranger-led program in or near Cuyahoga Valley National Park will introduce you to the area's natural and cultural history. You may see wildlife such as deer, elk, and fox, and learn about the park's ecology and history. You may also participate in activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography.