Cuyahoga Valley National Park - General Park Information

Though a short distance from the urban environments of Cleveland and Akron, Cuyahoga Valley National Park seems worlds away. The winding Cuyahoga--the "crooked river" as named by American Indians--gives way to deep forests, rolling hills, and open farmlands. The park is a refuge for flora and fauna, gives a sense of times past, and provides recreation and solitude for Ohio's residents and visitors.

If anything says Cuyahoga Valley National Park, it is the Towpath Trail, which follows the historic Ohio & Erie Canal route. Twenty miles of the trail occur in CVNP. The trail extends beyond the park into the Ohio & Erie Canalway. This fully accessible trail provides a delightful outing for people of all ages and abilities. There are picnic areas, restrooms, and train access points along the way.

Open your eyes to the splendor of the natural world as you stroll and hike throughout Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Ranger Paul Motts brings to your attention some of the spectacular wildlife and botanical observations from his post at Hunt Farm Visitor Center and the surrounding area.

The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad (CVSR) is one of the oldest, longest, and most scenic tourist excursion railways in the country. It operates trains 12 months of the year, offering alternative transportation in the national park. The regularly scheduled excursions between Cleveland and Canton have park rangers on board who discuss the natural features and history of the Cuyahoga Valley.

The weather in Cuyahoga Valley National Park is typical of Northeastern Ohio: four distinct seasons offering something for everyone. Winter is cold, cloudy, and sometimes snowy. Spring brings rain and warming temperatures. Summer is often hot and humid, with frequent thunderstorms and hazy skies. Fall offers some relief from the heat, as nights cool. Because the weather at CVNP can be unpredictable, visitors should be prepared for any condition.