People in bright orange kayaks paddle around a bend in a river, past green trees and a rocky shore.

National Park

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Info

Though a short distance from the urban areas of Cleveland and Akron, Cuyahoga Valley National Park seems worlds away. The park is a refuge for native plants and wildlife, and provides routes of discovery for visitors. The winding Cuyahoga River gives way to deep forests, rolling hills, and open farmlands. Walk or ride the Towpath Trail to follow the historic route of the Ohio & Erie Canal.

Park Photos

People in bright orange kayaks paddle around a bend in a river, past green trees and a rocky shore.
1 of 5

A group of kayaks passing a rocky beach on the Cuyahoga River in summer.

Credit: NPS Photo / D.J. Reiser

People in bright orange kayaks paddle around a bend in a river, past green trees and a rocky shore.
Two people stand at the edge of a gray rock cliff; in the distance, sunset and trees in fall colors.
A yellow-and-red engine with number 6777 leads a passenger train along tracks through green trees.
Viewed from above, people stand on a platform near frothy white water falling over a rocky ledge.
Visitors line the concrete edge of a canal lock filled with water, in front of a white building.

Activities

  • Arts and Culture
  • Craft Demonstrations
  • Cultural Demonstrations
  • Live Music
  • Biking
  • Mountain Biking
  • Fishing
  • Food
  • Picnicking
  • Hands-On
  • Citizen Science
  • Hiking
  • Horse Trekking
  • Horseback Riding
  • Living History
  • Paddling
  • Canoeing
  • Kayaking
  • Stand Up Paddleboarding
  • Junior Ranger Program
  • Skiing
  • Cross-Country Skiing
  • Snow Play
  • Snowshoeing
  • Wildlife Watching
  • Birdwatching
  • Shopping
  • Bookstore and Park Store
  • Gift Shop and Souvenirs

Operating Hours

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is open everyday, 24 hours a day with the following exceptions: Brandywine Falls, Ledges, Octagon, Kendall Lake, and Kendall Hills close from dusk until morning opening.

DayHours
Wednesday
All Day
Monday
All Day
Thursday
All Day
Sunday
All Day
Tuesday
All Day
Friday
All Day
Saturday
All Day

Weather info

Spring's rain and warming temperatures bring new leaves on trees, blooming wildflowers, and visitors anxious to get out on the trail. Summer temperatures range from 49 to 95 degrees F and can be humid. Dressing in layers is advisable. Fall temperatures can range from low 70s during the day to freezing during the night. Fall foliage often peaks in mid-October. Winter weather conditions can rapidly change due to the lake effect snow from Lake Erie. Temperatures vary from mid-30s to below zero.

Events