Ledges is our favorite trail at CVNP
We are lucky enough to live a short drive from Ohio’s only National Park! Cuyahoga Valley National Park has only been established since the 1970s, but it still offers a diverse amount of four-season activities. The Ledges Trail at Cuyahoga Valley National Park is our absolute favorite trail – possibly our favorite hike in NE Ohio.
The Ledges Trail at Cuyahoga Valley National Park combines some of my favorite elements of a hike – it has great scenery, is fairly safe for families (i.e. Mom’s anxiety), and offers convenient amenities like toilets & parking.
Today I’m sharing with you the route that we enjoy! It takes in the best elements of the Ledges Trail but is easy on little legs. Hiking with kids at Cuyahoga Valley National Park can be done, but sometimes it is nice to tweak your route to better suit your family.
Our 5 favorite spots at Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Tips for hiking The Ledges Trail with kids
The Ledges Trail is typically a 2.2-mile loop trail. From Kendall Park Rd turn onto Ledges Road and park.
Our favorite part of the hike is the eastern side of the trail, which passes the Ice Box Cave and the beautiful stone steps built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Here is the website for the CVNP Map. Below, I’ve highlighted the route we prefer to take.
CVNP Ledges Trail Map:
The large stone walls make you feel so small! It’s hard to believe that you’re just minutes from Cleveland and Akron. Cuyahoga Valley National Park and The Ledges Trail are so close to major interstates, but you feel as though you’re miles away from the world.
Before you enter the loop, you’ll want to watch small children as you descend from the top of the stone ledges to the valley floor. Our children were 5 and up at the time and we felt “safe” while hiking with them. Use common sense and take kids by the hand in places that are steep. Overall, The Ledges hike is one that can be done with children.
I’d avoid taking toddlers on the trail unless you have them in a hiking pack or baby carrier.
One of the most Instagram-worthy spots is the staircase built by the Civilian Corps during the Great Depression. Make sure you stop & take a photo.
Ready to hit the trails at Cuyahoga Valley National Park? I hope you enjoy The Ledges Trail as much as our family!
Ledges Trail Address:
405 Truxell Rd., Peninsula, OH 44264
Want to find more things to do in the area? Check out my favorite spots within CVNP and the beautiful waterfall Brandywine Falls. You may also be interested in the best Northeast Ohio hiking trails, Whipps Ledges, or free things to do in Cleveland with kids.
Where to stay near CVNP
 | Residence Inn by Marriott Akron Fairlawn When you stay at Residence Inn by Marriott Akron Fairlawn in Akron, you’ll be near the airport, within a 15-minute drive of Cuyahoga Valley National Park and Akron Civic Theater. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-in, and express check-out. Planning an event in Akron? This hotel has facilities measuring 480 square feet (43 square meters), including a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite. |
We stayed at the Residence Inn Marriott Fairlawn- Check rates now. We love Residence Inns for their family-friendly qualities- check out the best hotel chains for families.
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