How to Visit: Cuyahoga Valley and Indiana Dunes National Parks

Cuyahoga Valley

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

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Established in 2000, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a reprieve from the busy lifestyle found in nearby Akron and Cleveland. The park houses a variety of native plants and wildlife. The winding Cuyahoga River gives way to deep forests, rolling hills, and open farmlands.

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Trails

The Ledges Trail

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The Ledges Trail: 2.3 miles (moderate) This forested trail is the highlight of the park, in my opinion. Walk through the heart of a rich, green forest, traversing moss-covered boulders.

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Brandywine Gorge Trail

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Brandywine Gorge Trail: 1.4 miles (easy) This short hike features one of the most iconic falls in the Midwest. There are several beautiful views along the boardwalk path to the falls.

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Things to Do

Kendall Lake

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There is something to do for every season at Kendall Lake. Whether you want to walk the one-mile loop around the trail, or have a picnic by the Kendall Lake shelter, there is something for everyone. On crisp fall days, photographers hunt for the best views of the fall colors. Spring brings the birdwatchers looking up into the trees for colorful migrants. During the summer, you can find fisherman casting from the pier at Kendall Lake Shelter.

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Everett Covered Bridge

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Everett Covered Bridge, which crosses Furnace Run, is the only remaining covered bridge in Summit County. When it was built in the 1800s, it was one of over 2,000 in the state. Everett Covered Bridge was repaired at least twice after major damage, first caused by the 1913 flood and then by a truck in 1970. Then in 1975, rushing water from a spring storm lifted the bridge from its sandstone abutments and deposited the wreckage into the stream bed below. The community began raising funds to rebuild the bridge. The historically accurate reconstruction, completed by the National Park Service (NPS), was completed in 1986.

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Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail

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Discover the heart of Cuyahoga Valley National Park by bicycling, running, or walking on the Towpath Trail. This is a historic route of the Ohio & Erie Canal, which is the same path that mules walked to tow canal boats loaded with goods and passengers.

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Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad

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The National Park Scenic Railroad is a unique way to experience all the natural wonder Cuyahoga Valley National Park has to offer. Sit back and relax as the train weaves through the Cuyahoga Valley and races along with the rushing Cuyahoga River.

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Places to Stay

Campgrounds

This is no camping/overnight parking allowed in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, so here are two close-by campgrounds:

Silver Springs Campground

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8.8 miles from Cuyahoga Valley National Park

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Heritage Farms

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1.9 miles from Cuyahoga Valley National Park

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Hotel Options

Comfort

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Cleveland Solon

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Just 6 miles away from Thistledown Racino and MGM Northfield Park, this all-suites hotel is a 30-minute drive away from downtown Cleveland and offers complimentary daily breakfast and free WiFi. Every room at SpringHill Suites by Marriott Cleveland Solon provides a microwave, small refrigerator and wet bar. A coffee maker and kitchenware are also included. After a swim in the indoor pool or a work out at the on-site fitness center, guests can replenish with a snack from the 24-snack shop.

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Candlewood Suites Cleveland South - Independence, an IHG Hotel

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This 2-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, an ATM and free WiFi. The hotel features an indoor pool, fitness center, nightclub and a shared lounge. Guest rooms has air conditioning, a fridge, a dishwasher, a coffee machine, a shower, a hairdryer and a desk. At the hotel each room includes a private bathroom and bed linen. Candlewood Suites - Cleveland South - Independence, an IHG Hotel has a sun terrace. A business center and vending machines with snacks and drinks are available on site at the accommodation.

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Budget

Hampton Inn Stow

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Located off Highway 8, this hotel is 8.4 mi from downtown Akron and the University of Akron. It features a hot breakfast buffet and an indoor pool. Guest rooms offer free WiFi. A flat-screen cable TV and a work desk are furnished in every spacious room at Hampton Inn Stow. The traditionally decorated rooms also include a small seating area, clock radio and coffee maker. Fitness and business rooms are available on site for guest use. A snack shop and guest laundry services are also available.

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Hampton Inn & Suites Cleveland/Independence

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The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is 5.6 mi from this hotel in Independence, Ohio. It includes an outdoor pool and guest rooms feature free WiFi and coffee facilities. The rooms and suites at the Hampton Inn & Suites Cleveland-Independence have cable TV. Select rooms include a spa bath and suites provide a kitchen. Cleveland Hampton Inn & Suites Independence offers an on-site business center and a gym. Laundry facilities are also available for guests’ convenience.

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Indiana Dunes

Indiana Dunes National Park

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Established in 2019, Indiana Dunes is one of the newest National Parks in the US. Hugging Lake Michigan, it is easy to see how the lake has influenced Indiana Dunes for millennia. Wind and waves have shaped the land, leaving a rich mosaic of habitats along these 15 miles of Indiana coast. Over 50 miles of trails lead through shifting sand dunes, quiet woodlands, sunny prairies and lush wetlands.

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Trails

Cowles Bog Trail

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Cowles Bog Trail: 4.3 miles (moderate) The Cowles Bog Trail highlights an area of such outstanding plant diversity that it was designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1965. Explore several distinct habitats along this trail including ponds, marshes, swamps, black oak savannas and beaches. Steep sand dunes near Lake Michigan can make this a strenuous journey. Many visitors pack a lunch to enjoy at the shoreline while resting for the return trip.

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West Beach - Dune Succession Trailhead

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West Beach - Dune Succession Trail: 1.0 miles (easy) The Dune Succession Trail (Loop 1) highlights the four stages of dune development. West Beach has varied trails that encompass many different habitats. There are great views from the top of the stairs. On a summer day, after hiking, relax and swim at the beach.

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Mount Baldy

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Mount Baldy Beach Trail: 0.9 miles (easy) If you are looking for a little slice of Lake Michigan shoreline to yourself, this is a great spot. "Look, I can see Chicago!" - me

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Things to Do

Porter Beach

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This was the most popular beach during my time at Indiana Dunes. Arrive early if you want to snag a spot, especially on bluebird days. If you are looking to avoid the crowds, I would opt for another spot along the shoreline (like West End Beach or the beach access near Mount Baldy).

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Indiana Dunes State Park

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Indiana Dunes State Park runs seamlessly from the National Park; however, you will need to pay a separate entrance fee (unless you are from Indiana). The State Park boasts their "3 Dunes Challenge," which is "an epic climb up the three tallest sand dunes at Indiana Dunes State Park. It’s 1.5 miles of tough trail with 552 vertical feet that’s 100 percent brag-worthy."

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Places to Stay

Campgrounds

Dunewood Campground

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Campground consists of two loops containing 66 camp-sites (53 conventional drive-in sites and 13 walk/carry-in sites). Four sites are wheelchair accessible (numbers 15, 30, 41 and 55). Each loop has modern restrooms and hot/cold showers. Some sites have limited recreational vehicle length. Campground closed during winter, Nov 2 - Mar 31.

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Central Beach Walk-In Sites

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The Central Beach Walk-In Sites has 5 sites, and you will walk a distance to get to your campsite. There is a primitive toilet (porta-potty) by the Central Beach parking lot for the entire season. There is no drinkable water in the area so you must bring your own water. Winter Closure from September 30th – May 1st

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Hotel Options

Comfort

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Michigan City, an IHG Hotel

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Holiday Inn Express & Suites - Michigan City, an IHG Hotel is a 3-star hotel, which has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each with a private bathroom. The hotel provides an indoor pool, fitness center, and an ATM. All guest rooms at the hotel are equipped with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and a safety deposit box. At Holiday Inn Express & Suites - Michigan City, an IHG Hotel all rooms come with bed linen and towels. Guests at the accommodation can enjoy a continental breakfast. Guests will find a 24-hour front desk, a shared lounge and a business center at the property.

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Hilton Garden Inn Chesterton

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Featuring a convenient location just off of Interstate 80 and 90, this Chesterton hotel is only a short drive from several area attractions and features modern amenities and thoughtful services. The Hilton Garden Inn Chesterton is within driving distance from the Indianan Dunes State Park as well as Valparaiso University. There are also a variety of shopping centers, restaurants and golf courses nearby. Guests at the Chesterton Hilton Garden Inn can appreciate free wireless internet access as well as the modern fitness center and indoor heated pool. This fully non-smoking hotel also features an on-site restaurant serving breakfast and dinner.

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Budget

Al & Sally's Motel

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Al & Sally's Motel provides accommodations with a garden and free WiFi as well as free private parking for guests who drive. Featuring family rooms, this property also provides guests with a playground. At the motel, all rooms have a closet. Complete with a private bathroom equipped with a shower and free toiletries, guest rooms at Al & Sally's Motel have a flat-screen TV and air conditioning, and selected rooms come with a patio. At the accommodation each room has bed linen and towels. Guests at Al & Sally's Motel will be able to enjoy activities in and around Michigan City, like cycling.

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An Anecdote

As I stood upon the banks of the Cuyahoga River in the heart of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, a sense of tranquility washed over me. The sun was beginning its ascent, casting that new morning light upon the surrounding trees that stretched their branches towards the sky.

I remember the gentle rustle of the leaves as a light breeze weaved through the forest, carrying the forest scent. The budding of spring could be seen everywhere.

I had ventured into this breathtaking natural haven, seeking solace from the log hours I spent in my car.  As I followed the winding Ledges Trail, each step brought a renewed sense of connection with nature.  The rhythmic sound of the river flowing nearby was like a soothing melody, accompanied by the occasional call of a distant bird.

The valley seemed to hold countless secrets, like the hidden waterfalls tucked away in secluded corners. As the morning light began to transform into bright noon sunshine, I found a quiet spot to have lunch. It was a moment of absolute serenity, that lasted only a moment before I felt called to move along.

While Cuyahoga Valley is not a park that I would spend days and days exploring, it does offer some quiet magic tucked away from its busy surroundings.