People often forget that northeast Ohio has a national park right on its southern flank: the 32,600-acre Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Summit County. With more than 125 miles of hiking trails of all degrees of difficulty and terrain that ranges from dense forests to open fields, and the Cuyahoga River running through it, it’s a playground for those who love to be outdoors.
As with most places, CVNP has closed all its indoor facilities, including its visitor center, and cancelled all events, tours and other activities. However, the park itself remains open, so you are free to roam and ramble to your heart’s content. Several years ago, river otters returned to the park after disappearing in the early 20th century due to hunting and habitat destruction. The best time to spot them is early morning in Beaver Marsh. They’re just one of a multitude of animals and birds the stealthy visitor can observe in the park. Entrance to the park is free.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Brecksville, OH 44141