Date we visited: June 28th, 2021
Where we stayed: Woodside Lake Park
After visiting Acadia National Park in Maine, we headed south and east through New Hampshire, Vermont, New York and Pennsylvania. The next park on our agenda was Cuyahoga Valley in Ohio. Cuyahoga is set near Lake Eerie, just south of the city of Cleveland. One of the few parks that sits near a metro area, Cuyahoga offers a ton of green space, hiking trails, rafting on the river, and history.
Brandywine Falls
The trail to Brandywine Falls
Our first stop in the park that morning was at Brandywine Falls. We lucked out as there was a ranger that had some useful tips, along with Junior Ranger materials, stationed at the trailhead. We completed the short hike into the woods, down a boardwalk, and into the gorge to check out the falls. After taking in the peaceful but powerful view, we made our way back out before it got too hot outside.
Our next stop was the Boston Mill visitor center. This building had recently been renovated, and we were able to peruse several exhibits and displays describing the history of the area and the park.
The Ledges
A quick water break at The Ledges
Based on a recommendation from some friends, our next destination was an area known as The Ledges. We followed the Ledges Trail, but took a shortcut past a sprawling green field and then deeper into the woods.
That trail highlights the surprisingly dynamic geology of the area, opening up to a conglomerate precipice which is hidden by the dense foliage. While Owen loved hoping from rock to rock and jumping over small crevices, Kristy and I were a bit more nervous. We all made it out without incident though, and found our way safely back to the truck.
We only spent one day at Cuyahoga, but it is easy to see why the Ohioans love it so much. The variety of trails, natural space and river adventures are a gem right in their backyard. We also took the opportunity to get a 3-Way Cincinnati Chili from Skyline; a not-exactly-fancy regional speciality that happens to be one of my favorite dishes. Many argue that it’s not really “chili”, but whatever you want to call it, I enjoyed it!