One of the new kids on the the block, the Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a surprise to many of it's over 2.5 million visitor a year. Sandwiched between the cities of Cleveland and Akron, it is a jewel of nature. A place where city folk can have a respite from the city and experience the peace of nature. While many of the traditional outdoor activities are available such as hiking, fishing, and picnicking, there are some other more unusual activities available too, such as EarthCaching, train rides and concerts.

The name Cuyahoga comes from the Mohawk people meaning, "cooked river". http://www.clevelandmemory.org/ellis/chap03.html The name is appropriate as the river winds it's way through the landscape. The park follows the Cuyahoga River from the city of Cleveland to the city of Akron. Because of that you can follow the historic route of the Ohio and Erie Canal, hiking or bicycling along the same path that where the mules towed the boats along the canals. Or how about a train ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad? The Valley Railway began over 100 years ago and now the Cuyahoga Valley Line services the park year round. Ohio's National Park has much to offer!

This valley has been a place of recreation since 1870's. It was an area to escape the city and have a carriage or boat ride. In the 1910's and 20's, Cleveland and Akron Metro-parks were developed. Hayward Kendall in 1929 donated the area around Richie Ledges, an area amounting to 430 acres. In the 1960's citizens joined to protect the area from the encroaching cities. Their work was rewarded on December 27, 1974, when President Gerald Ford signed the bill to establish the Cuyahoga Valley National Recreation Area. However, the area reached full park status on October 11, 2000 when it was redesignated by Congress the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. http://www.nps.gov/cuva/planyourvisit/upload/History7%20final.pdf

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad: Open all year. Regular excursions operate at Akron Northside Station, Peninsula Depot and Rockside Station in Independence, OH. The fee of $15 for adults and $10 for children include an all day ticket good for a round trip through the park or the option to get off the train at attractions before returning to where you boarded.

Towpath Trail: Follows the Ohio and Erie Canal along the Cuyahoga River. It has 11 trailheads within the park and extends outside the park both to the north and the south. Good for all ages and abilities. As you walk, run or bike, you will see forests, fields and wetlands.

Camping: There are primitive camps along the Towpath Trail available (no drive-ups) for $15 dollars a day. Water and chemical toilets are available. However, if you are looking for something a bit more upscale there are some very nice local state park and privately owned campgrounds in the area.

Birdwatching: One of the most popular activities in the park with over 200 bird species spotted throughout the year. The National Audubon Society has designated Cuyahoga Valley National Park an Important Bird Area.

Golfing: There are four golf courses within the boundaries of the park. They have a variety of skill levels.

EarthCaching: An offshoot of GeoCaching where you hunt for treasures in caches the earth has naturally created rather then man-made containers. Clues and activities are online to help you get credit for your find. Currently EarthCaches are hidden at Blue Hen Falls, Brandywine Falls, Ice Box Cave, Lock 29 to Deep Lock Towpath Trail, along the Old Carriage Trail, Riding Run Trail, and on the Towpath Trail from Lock 29 to Deep Lock.

Other activities include backpacking, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, horse trails, picnicking and the Winter Sports Center.http://www.nps.gov/cuva/planyourvisit/outdooractivities.htm