
National Park · Ohio
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
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.
Things to do
- 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
Weather & when to go
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.
Operating hours
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
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.
FAQ
- Is Cuyahoga Valley National Park free to visit?
- Cuyahoga Valley National Park does not charge a standard entrance fee. Check the official NPS page for the latest details on any activity or permit fees before you go.
- What are the hours at Cuyahoga Valley National Park?
- 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.
- Do I need a reservation for Cuyahoga Valley National Park?
- No timed-entry reservation is currently required to enter Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Campgrounds and permits may still need to be booked separately on Recreation.gov.
Related guides
Trip plans and deep-dives from the PeepTrip blog featuring Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

National Parks Near Detroit: 5 Closest Parks
Cuyahoga Valley and Indiana Dunes sit within a half-day drive of Metro Detroit. Here is how far each national park is and which ones justify a longer weekend.

National Parks Near Philadelphia: Best Trips
The closest national parks to Philadelphia, from a Shenandoah weekend to New River Gorge and Acadia, ranked by drive time with practical trip tips.

National Parks Near Louisville: Mammoth Cave & More
The closest national parks to Louisville, from Mammoth Cave's underground trails to weekend trips to the Great Smoky Mountains, with drive times and tips.

Best Hikes in Indiana Dunes National Park
A trail-by-trail guide to the best hikes in Indiana Dunes National Park, from the 3 Dune Challenge to quiet Lake Michigan beaches near Chicago.

Best Hikes in Cuyahoga Valley National Park
A trail-by-trail guide to the best hikes in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, from Brandywine Falls to The Ledges and Blue Hen Falls.

National Parks Near Pittsburgh, PA
The closest national parks to Pittsburgh, from Cuyahoga Valley to New River Gorge, with drive times.
Keep exploring
More parks in Ohio.
