Cuyahoga Valley National Park, OH

Did you know there’s a National Park in Ohio? Cuyahoga Valley NP is just outside of Cleveland; only a 2 hour day trip from Pittsburgh. Designated a national park in 2000, this area is unique from other major parks. It’s tucked just outside of a major metropolitan region. But even more interestingly, it is a success story of the rehabilitation of the natural world. For years, the Cuyahoga River was subject to waste and sewage dumping from the nearby industrial centers. The pollution was so bad that the river caught on fire multiple times. But over the next few decades, major strides were made to clean up the polluted waters. Now, the park welcomes over 2 million visitors a year to enjoy its trails and history!

There are over 125 miles of trail to enjoy at Cuyahoga Valley. The geologically unique Ledges Trail is the most popular spot in the park and for good reason! Despite being in a relatively flat state, these massive sandstone cliffs emerge from the woods in a stunning display. At only 2.2 miles, this is a great hike for all ages that offers beautiful views and some fun, rocky sections. Ledges Trail is a must when visiting Cuyahoga!

THE HIKE: Ledges Trail via Kendell Lake

Length: 5.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 488 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Time:  2-2.5 hours
Trail use: Hiking, Leashed Pets
Parking: Ample parking at Kendall Lake, restroom facilities

Cuyahoga National Park is the only National Park in Ohio! While it might not have the mountains of the West, it offers stunning waterfalls, unique geological features, and a fascinating history.

Where to Park: Ledges Trail is one of the most popular trails in Cuyahoga National Park. Because of this, I recommend taking the longer route which starts at Kendall Lake but offers more parking. If you’re a newer hiker, have less time, or are hiking with little ones, I’d suggest tackling just the 2.2-mile Ledges Trail by parking here. Just be aware that this lot fills up quickly so try to aim for an off-peak time!

The Route: From the Kendall Lake Parking area, follow the Connector Trail across the road. Make sure to look both ways and cross carefully! Suddenly you’ll find yourself in thick woods. At the first trail junction, turn left to get on the Pine Grove Trail. While not the most interesting part of the trek, this is a pleasant loop through thick woods. Keep an eye out for wildflowers and fungi! After 1.6 miles, the trails meets back up with the Connector Trail. Continue along the Connector Trail passing over a road and then through a parking lot. At the edge of the parking is a trail kiosk with a map and information about the trails around Ledges. Continue forward after the kiosk, now on the Ledges Trail. You’ll notice almost immediately the rocky cliffside that rises up beside you along the trail. Keep an eye out for interesting rock features! At 2.6 miles, you’ll pass the Ice Box Cave, a unique spot where the temperature drops dramatically earning its fitting name. Continue along peering through rock crevices and tight squeezes. At about 3 miles, you’ll pass over the road to the main parking area. Just after this, you’ll reach the Ledges Overlook, a rocky outcropping perfect for a quick rest. The view isn’t super spectacular with the heavy foliage but might be better in the winter! Continue along the Ledges Trail to finish the loop and meet back at the trail kiosk and Connector Trail. Now you can retrace your steps along the Connector Trail, this time bearing to the left at the junction with Pine Grove Trail. This will lead you right back to the parking lot for Kendall Lake. But instead of heading to your car, take the tranquil Lake Trail for an easy loop around the lake. Make sure to end with a jaunt out onto the fishing pier!

This is just one of the many awesome trails to check out at Cuyahoga Valley! On the same day, we also visited Blue Hen Falls and Brandywine Falls. Looking for a general guide to the park and the various trails? Check at the My Trails are Many guide here.

THE BEER: HiHo Brewing Co.

Address: 1707 Front St, Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221
Distance from Trail Head: 9 miles, 16 mins 
Website: http://www.hihobrewingco.com/
Food?: Full Menu
Details: Indoor and Outdoor seating, Leashed dogs on patio

HiHo Brewing began as the dream of Jon and Ali Hoven, a beer-loving husband and wife team. While living in Colorado, the couple discovered a passion for craft beer, even starting a homebrew club. They grew more serious about the industry and Jon eventually trained as a professional brewer. in 2015, they moved back to their hometown in Ohio and began the long process of building out their dream brewery. In January 2017, HiHo Brewing Co officially opened!

Formerly a car showroom, the 6,000 sq ft taproom offers amble seating, from high top bar spots to banquet style seating. In the warmer months, there’s a patio outside overlooking the Cuyahoga River where leashed dogs are welcome to hang out with you. With such a large space, you won’t be surprised to see a hefty taplist! Most drafts come in a variety of sizes (5 oz, 10 oz, 16 oz) for your tasting pleasure. HiHo doesn’t limit itself to specific styles so you’re sure to find something you love!

After all that hiking and exploring, you’re sure to be ready for a snack. The house menu features a perfect mix of bar food like pizza and sliders, with healthier salad options. I’m always a sucker for a pretzel with beer cheese, and these did not disappoint!

There’s several brewery options around Cuyahoga, but I highly recommend a stop at HiHo!

Looking for more adventures in Ohio? Check out the NCT Ohio/PA border & Ill Will Brewing, Hocking Hills Gorge Loop & Brewery 33, and Conkles Hollow & Double Edge Brewing Co. Also take a look at my Guide to Hocking Hills.