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Cuyahoga Valley National Park: A Hidden Jewel Between Cleveland and Akron

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Friday, December 5th 2025 at 5:51 GMT by Travel + Leisure

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A Complete Travel & Leisure Guide to Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Travel & Leisure’s in‑depth feature on the Cuyahoga Valley National Park (CVNP) offers a thorough primer for anyone planning a trip to Ohio’s hidden gem. Nestled between Cleveland and Akron, the park is a 32‑square‑mile oasis of rolling hills, old‑world villages, and a dramatic river canyon. Below is a distilled overview of the park’s highlights, practical tips, and the key experiences that make the article a go‑to reference for travelers.

1. The Park in a Nutshell

The CVNP was officially designated a National Park in 2000, becoming the 23rd National Park in the United States. It spans 32,000 acres of forests, wetlands, and open fields along the 15‑mile stretch of the Cuyahoga River. The park is renowned for its picturesque scenery, wildlife diversity, and the juxtaposition of natural and cultural attractions—most notably the historic Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill.

Travel & Leisure stresses that CVNP’s close proximity to two major cities—Cleveland and Akron—makes it an easily accessible destination for day‑trippers and weekend explorers alike. The article notes that the park’s trail system covers 125 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian routes, all intersecting with the famed Ohio to Erie Trail that links Cleveland to Erie, Pennsylvania.

2. Trail Highlights and Outdoor Activities

a. Ohio to Erie Trail
The article points out that this 335‑mile rail‑trail offers a flat, gravel path that is ideal for cyclists, walkers, and rollerbladers. A segment of the trail runs through the park, showcasing scenic overlooks of the river gorge and the historic Brandywine Falls.

b. Brandywine Gorge & Falls
One of the park’s crown jewels, the Brandywine Falls trail leads to a 70‑foot waterfall that is especially popular in spring when the creek swells. The hike is relatively short—just 0.8 miles round trip—and is a must‑visit for photographers and nature lovers.

c. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
The article emphasizes the park’s charming heritage railroad, which offers scheduled rides from Peninsula Station to Brandywine Falls. The train traverses the park’s scenic valleys, passing by ancient oak trees and historic landmarks, and is a family‑friendly way to see the park without exertion.

d. Other Adventures
Beyond hiking, CVNP offers kayaking and stand‑up paddleboarding on the Cuyahoga River, rock‑climbing on sandstone cliffs near the Brandywine Gorge, and guided horseback riding tours that wind through the forested hills. For wildlife enthusiasts, the park is a prime spot to observe deer, foxes, and an array of birds—including eagles and hawks.

3. Cultural & Historical Attractions

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill
Travel & Leisure spotlights the restored Shaker Village, a living history museum that showcases the Shaker way of life, including their famed hand‑loom baskets and cooperative farming practices. Guided tours of the village provide insight into the Shakers’ commitment to simplicity, community, and innovation.

Peninsula Park
The visitor center in Peninsula Park serves as a hub for information and exhibits on the park’s ecology and geology. From here, guests can access the park’s main trailhead, the historic Cuyahoga Valley Railroad station, and a network of scenic boardwalks along the river.

4. Accommodations and Dining

The article notes several lodging options both within and around the park:

• Campgrounds: The park hosts five campgrounds—Shaker, Ashland, Hough, Ridge, and Wadsworth—each offering tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially during summer weekends.

• Cabins & Lodges: The park’s cabin rentals provide a rustic but comfortable stay, often featuring kitchenettes and fire pits. For those seeking more amenities, nearby towns such as Cleveland Heights and Akron offer hotels, boutique inns, and vacation rentals.

• Dining: The park’s dining scene is highlighted by the Shaker Inn’s farm‑to‑table menu, the Greenhouse Café’s fresh, locally sourced fare, and the Valley Bistro’s classic American cuisine. The article encourages visitors to sample regional specialties, such as Cleveland’s famous pierogies or Akron’s local trout.

5. Practical Information for Travelers

The Travel & Leisure piece emphasizes that the park’s official website and the National Park Service page provide up‑to‑date information on closures, trail conditions, and weather alerts—especially useful during Ohio’s wet winter months.

6. Events & Seasonal Highlights

Travel & Leisure lists a few recurring events that enhance the park experience:

• Shaker Village Festival (Fall): A celebration of Shaker heritage featuring live music, demonstrations, and food.
• Cuyahoga Valley Arts & Crafts Fair (Spring): Local artisans showcase pottery, jewelry, and woodwork.
• Winter Wonderland (December): Guided snowshoe hikes and wildlife viewing during the holiday season.

The article suggests checking the park’s calendar before booking, as these events can attract crowds and affect parking availability.

7. Conservation & Community Impact

One of the most compelling aspects of the CVNP is its commitment to preserving both natural and cultural resources. Travel & Leisure quotes park officials on the importance of protecting endangered species such as the Indiana bat and the Ohio buckeye. The park’s partnership with the Shaker Village community underscores a collaborative approach to heritage preservation, where historic structures are maintained while offering educational programming to the public.

8. Bottom Line: Why Visit CVNP?

Travel & Leisure frames the Cuyahoga Valley National Park as a “hidden jewel” that offers a full spectrum of outdoor adventures, historic intrigue, and serene landscapes—all within a short drive of two major urban centers. Whether you’re a weekend hiker, a family looking for a scenic getaway, or a history buff keen on the Shakers, the park’s blend of nature and culture delivers a well-rounded travel experience.

For those planning a trip, the article’s comprehensive itinerary suggestions—including morning hikes, afternoon river activities, and a sunset dinner at the Shaker Inn—serve as an excellent blueprint. Coupled with the park’s accessible trail system and a wealth of lodging options, CVNP stands out as a must‑visit destination in the Midwestern United States.