The Boston Mill Visitor Center is open daily from 9:30 AM to 5 PM from March to December. Hours are shortened in January and February, and extended during the summer season.
There is no entrance fee to visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
By car from Cleveland or Akron via I-77 or I-80. Closest airports: CLE (Cleveland), CAK (Akron-Canton). Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad runs through the park. Regional transit gets you close to entrances.
At Cuyahoga Valley National Park, cars can park at Boston Mill Visitor Center, Brandywine Falls, and Ledges Trailhead. RVs and trailers use the RV and Trailer Parking area across from Boston Mill or larger spaces at other trailheads. No overnight parking. No fees. Motorcycles use regular parking spaces.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Cuyahoga Valley National Park spans over 33,000 acres between Cleveland and Akron, blending forests, wetlands, and rivers with historic farmland and canalways. Visitors enjoy a scenic escape with trails like the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath, beautiful waterfalls, and abundant biodiversity. The Cuyahoga River weaves through a park that surprises many with its rich ecosystems and cultural heritage—all within an urban corridor. From biking to birding to scenic train rides, the park offers an immersive experience across seasons.
- Area (mi²)
- 51
- Annual visitors
- 2 900 000
- Established year
- 1974
Top 3 Facts about Cuyahoga Valley National Park
The park features the Ritchie Ledges, unique sandstone formations shaped by retreating glaciers, with the highest elevation point reaching 1170-1180 feet.
Draws over 2.2 million visitors annually, one of the most visited U.S. national parks.
Designated an International Dark Sky Park in 2019 for its commitment to light pollution reduction.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scavenger Hunts
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Arts & Crafts
- Water-based Adventures
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Check the park’s website for alerts, closures, trail maps, and special events before visiting.
Pack Appropriately
Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, bug spray, and appropriate gear for seasonal conditions.
Respect Wildlife
Observe wildlife from a distance, don’t feed animals, and leash pets to protect the ecosystem.
Stay Informed
Watch forecasts, dress in layers, and bring a map or GPS. Conditions vary with the seasons.
Seasons
Mild temperatures and wildflowers; ideal for hiking, birding, and scenic walks.
Warm weather and long days perfect for hiking, kayaking, biking, and ranger-led programs.
Stunning autumn foliage from late Sept to early Nov, ideal for hiking, photography, and harvest festivals.
Quiet snowy landscapes for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and frozen waterfall viewing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Cuyahoga Valley National Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest major cities are Akron, Ohio, and Cleveland, Ohio, with Akron being about 14 miles away and Cleveland about 16 miles away.
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The Ledges Trail is a highly recommended family-friendly hike, being a 2.2-mile moderate loop that passes through impressive rock formations, though toddlers and young children should be closely monitored due to big drops. It has a decently-sized parking lot and a reservable shelter, and the trail is connected to a larger network of trails if you want to extend your hike.
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There is no specific information available indicating that dogs are allowed at the site. It is best to check with the National Park Service or the site’s visitor services for the most current rules and regulations. Generally, national historic sites have strict rules to protect the historical integrity of the area.
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Parking is free at the park, but there are no designated spaces for RVs or trailers, and overnight parking is not allowed. Larger vehicles can use oversized vehicle spaces or large parking lots when available.
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You can hike the Ledges Trail, visit Brandywine Falls and the Everett Covered Bridge, and see Blue Hen Falls. Stop by Beaver Marsh to spot wildlife and consider a ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. You can also explore the park’s Visitor Center and enjoy the scenic views around Kendall Lake.
