The cities of Akron and Cleveland, Ohio are just down the road so it is quite easy for locals to enjoy the outdoors at this national park! “Parks to the people” is a great phrase. People can arrive to this park via road or railway or canal, in the past. In 1974, it was established a national park as a civil rights initiative. Here is a national park in metropolitan areas. Plus tourists descend upon the area to spend time in green lush, wooded areas to hike or bicycle ride. Horses are allowed on some trails as are leashed pets.

The Cuyahoga River is a winding river emptying into Lake Erie. In 1969, the river caught fire and clean-up began soon after on this once most polluted river. There had been previous river fires, but the damages from industrial pollution had been ignored. Fifty years later we can enjoy bald eagle sightings, other wildlife and waterfalls, and if a skilled paddler, time on the river in a canoe or kayak. Be sure to hike the many steps down to Brandywine Falls … worth the view!

The Towpath Trail parallels the once Ohio & Erie Canal. Here people can hike, jog or bicycle ride for at least 22 miles from end to end. There is also a scenic railroad train ride. Seasonally, there is a one-way shuttle service for cyclists, kayakers and thru-hikers. Or two-way tickets where you can hop on and off the train to visit the small towns along the route. I walked the towpath trail from what was once lock 29.

In 1913, the great flood closed the Ohio & Erie Canal, damaged the Everett Covered Bridge and it was repaired. In 1975, it was destroyed by a spring storm. In 1986, a historically accurate reconstruction was completed. Visitors can walk from a parking lot to the covered bridge.

My most enjoyable hike was the Ledges Trail. It was a loop trail of a couple of miles. Do wear sturdy shoes and consider walking sticks if you would feel better with them on uneven surfaces, rocks, roots, etc. You walk past huge rocks and on ledges. The path is wide and well-marked. Quite frankly, you have to see this areas since no photo will do it justice. Enjoy!