Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Trailie
Build your Cuyahoga Valley itinerary
Tell Trailie your dates, pace, and interests — get a day-by-day Cuyahoga Valley National Park plan with hikes, drives, and must-see stops.
Cuyahoga Valley at a glance
- Best time
- January–April, November–December
- Trip length
- 3–5 days
- Don't miss
- Hike the Brandywine Gorge Loop
- Nearby city
- Peninsula, OH
Explore this park
About 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.
Weather Information
- Spring
's rain and warming temperatures bring new leaves on trees, blooming wildflowers, and visitors anxious to get out on the trail.
- Summer
49°F – 95°F
- Fall
temperatures can range from low 70s during the day to freezing during the night.
- Winter
weather conditions can rapidly change due to the lake effect snow from Lake Erie.
Dressing in layers is advisable. Fall foliage often peaks in mid-October. Temperatures vary from mid-30s to below zero.
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.
- MondayAll Day
- TuesdayAll Day
- WednesdayAll Day
- ThursdayAll Day
- FridayAll Day
- SaturdayAll Day
- SundayAll Day
Common questions
Planning Cuyahoga Valley
The summary above covers timing and highlights. These go deeper on reservations, crowds, and logistics.
No general park entry reservation is listed for Cuyahoga Valley. About 3.0 million recreation visits were recorded in 2025. Campground, backcountry, and activity permits may still apply — check the Permits tab and the park's official website.
See Permits tab →
