The Best Time to Visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Drawing in more than 2.2 million visitors each year, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is arguably one of the most popular national parks in the entire country.

No wonder, as any trip to Cuyahoga Valley National Park is bound to be spectacular, regardless of when you decide to visit.

That said, if you’re looking to have a particular experience, such as soaking in the fall foliage or avoiding the large crowds, there are better times to head there than others. But don’t worry — we’ve done the hard work for you.

Follow along to see when the best time to visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park is based on your individual preferences and travel expectations. Let us be your guide!

The Best Time to Visit the Park

The best time to visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park is either in spring (April or May) or in fall (September or October).

The former offers spectacular wildlife-sighting opportunities, while the latter is all about absorbing scenic fall landscapes. April has average temperatures between a maximum of 57°F and a minimum of 39°F.

May sees similar temperatures, albeit higher, fluctuating between 69°F and 51°F. October visitors should expect average temperatures between a maximum of 61°F during the day and a minimum of 46°F.

The spring months can be an awesome time to enjoy the plethora of wildflowers and majestic waterfalls. Autumn, however, is when heading to the Brandywine Gorge Trail or the Ledges Overlook is a must, as the views are spectacular.

These months provide excellent hiking conditions as well — they lack summer’s intense heat and humidity and winter’s harsh appearance.

That said, note that the spring season sees significant rainfall, so double-check the weather forecast before you make any plans. Otherwise, spring is perfect for wildlife watching, as animals are done hiding from the cold.

Plus, the park’s not as crowded as in summer, so they feel much more comfortable moving around in the environment as opposed to having large crowds around them.

The Cheapest Time to Visit

The cheapest time to head to Cuyahoga Valley National Park is in mid to late September. It’s the limbo period when the summer chaos has just ceased, and the fall foliage admirers are yet to arrive.

This time of the year, accommodation rates drop, and flight tickets take a nosedive. If you’re trying to stick to a budget yet enjoy Cuyahoga Valley National Park, this is the time to go.

In September, Cuyahoga Valley National Park welcomes visitors with temperatures going up to 73 °F, as well as chilly but relatively pleasant lows of 57°F.

Your autumn activities will be similar to what we already outlined, but feel free to add the Townpath Trail to your schedule, as the scenery is at its most striking.

Least Busy Time to Visit the Park

The least busy time to visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park is anytime from November through March.

Winter brings low temperatures, uncertain weather, and often heavy snowfall. In November, temperatures range between highs of 48°F and average lows of 36°F. December has comparable temperatures between 38°F and 28°F.

Then, January and February see temperatures drop all the way to 19°F, with highs barely reaching 35°F. Lastly, in March, the advent of spring brings about a slightly warmer climate, but not entirely, with temperatures going back up to highs of 44°F.

While the temperature overall may look intimidating during this time, winter-based recreational activities, such as snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, are fair game and allow for a different experience of the park.

Plus, if you hope for a quiet time in Cuyahoga Valley, this is when you’ll have it. Cuyahoga Valley National Park winter’s magic may not work for everyone, but you’ll definitely avoid the peak season crowds and still have a blast.

If you’re traveling with kids, the Ugly Sweater Challenge could spice up your holiday season visit. Add the gingerbread landscape by Kelly McGreal, and you have yourself a creative winter getaway in Ohio.

Finally, if you’re unable to come during the November–March period, try to avoid the crowds by visiting early in the mornings, weekdays, or later in the day.

The Worst Time to Visit

While Cuyahoga Valley National Park is an amazing sight to behold year-round, we believe you should avoid visiting in summer (June through August).

The park gets a huge influx of visitors, and as school’s out and the summer holiday season is in, many travel with kids, making the park much more hectic and louder than what’s needed to properly enjoy it.

However, June, July, and August see pleasant summer climates, with average temperatures hovering around 80°F during the day and a minimum of 58°F at night.

That said, summers in Ohio may get too humid, thanks to the various lakes in the region. To avoid the heat and humidity, head to CVNP early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

That said, even if you do end up going in the middle of the day, you can find refuge and shade under the myriad of maples, oaks, and pines throughout the park. Also, summers get pretty dynamic thanks to the Burning River Endurance Run and Relay event.

Organized annually for almost two decades, the Burning River Endurance Run and Relay takes candidates through CVNP and the Summit Metro Parks.

Then, there’s the Cuyahoga Country Fair, a five-day event occurring each August. From rides, flea markets, and fun activities to contests and guest speakers, the fair has something for everyone’s taste.

Things to Consider

To plan your Cuyahoga Valley National Park like a pro, follow the next tips:

• Many visitors skip the Mill Visitor Center — don’t be one of them. Heading to the visitor center allows you to get all the information you need in relation to your park exploration and the surrounding environment.
• The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic train leaves between two to four times during the day in the June–October period. The Peninsula Depot is the most frequent place for boarding the train.
• If you’re 55 or older and trying to save some money during your visit, you’re eligible for a $2 discount in the June–September period for the National Park Scenic train on weekdays. Note that cash is preferred when paying for the train experience, and exact change is more than welcome.
• If you wish to bike but don’t have your own bike, head to Century Cycles and check out the rental options.
• Choose a hiking trail based on your experience and relevant skills — some trails are flat, while others are hilly. Also, monitor weather updates, as some trails get quite muddy after heavier rainfall, whereas others don’t. Wear suitable hiking clothes and comfortable shoes.
• Bugs and insects aren’t uncommon, so make sure to bring bug spray.
• If you’re planning on fishing, make sure you’re acquainted with the park’s fishing regulations and that you have the necessary documents, such as a fishing license. 
• Download the free Chimani app, and you’ll find navigating Cuyahoga Valley to be a walk in the park (pun intended). 
• Parking is almost never an issue — unless you visit on a very busy weekend with warm temperatures. That said, most of the time you shouldn’t have any trouble finding a parking spot.
• While the entire park is open year-round, certain areas close at dusk — make sure to check which ones before you set off to explore.
• Cell service is available all throughout the park.
• If you wish to stay longer but have no idea where to look for accommodation, check out the following options:
  • Comfort Inn & Suites Durango,
  • The Strater Hotel,
  • Holiday Inn Express Durango Downtown- Animas River, 
  • Best Western Plus Rio Grande Inn,
  • DoubleTree by Hilton Durango,
  • Days Inn by Wyndham Durango.

There’s something for everyone’s budget!

• Finally, make sure to leave the park as you found it. This means cleaning after your dog, picking up your trash, cleaning after spilled food and drinks, and so on.
• Some of the best photography areas include Brandywine and Blue Hen Falls, Virginia Kendall Ledges, Beaver Marsh Boardwalk, and Everett Road Covered Bridge.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are fun facts about Cuyahoga Valley National Park?

Here are some fun facts about Cuyahoga Valley National Park:

• The word Cuyahoga means “crooked river.”
• The park has a railroad operating right through it.
• The park is home to Okio’s tallest waterfall, Brandywine Falls.
• The valley includes more than 125 miles of hiking trails.
• There are more than a thousand plant species in the park.
• The first known inhabitants of the valley were Native Americans.
• Some of the locations for the film “A Man Called Otto” featuring Tom Hanks include Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
• Cuyahoga Valley National Park became a national park in 2000.

Does it cost money to go to Cuyahoga Valley National Park?

Admission to the Cuyahoga Valley National Park is free! That said, the park encourages visitors to donate to their friend group — the Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

What animals live in Cuyahoga Valley National Park?

Cuyahoga Valley National Park abounds with a myriad of mammals, insects, reptiles, birds, and amphibians, such as:

• cardinals
• blue jays
• chickadees
• woodpeckers
• goldfinches
• coyotes  
• foxes
• mice
• moles
• voles
• shrews
• chipmunks
• squirrels
• raccoons
• opossums
• butterflies (the park is home to more than 20 butterfly species!)
• dragonflies
• turtles
• snakes

Can you camp anywhere in Cuyahoga Valley National Park?

Unfortunately, Cuyahoga Valley National Park no longer offers camping on park premises. Also, staying the night in the parking lot isn’t allowed, either.

How much time should I spend at Cuyahoga Valley National Park?

We believe one full day is enough for you to not only see the highlights the park offers but also go on a hike, take a rest, engage in animal-watching, and simply enjoy the moment.

Can you swim in Cuyahoga?

You can swim in all areas except for Kendall Lake and Indigo Lake. That said, visitors aren’t encouraged to pursue water-based activities due to the water’s questionable quality.

Over to You — Book Your Trip Today!

The best time to visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park is either in April and May or in September and October. The weather’s usually pleasant, the park’s at its peak, and the activities run full steam, weather permitting.

The cheapest time to head to Cuyahoga Valley National Park is mid to late September. It’s the perfect shoulder period to squeeze this Ohio getaway into your travel schedule.

If you wish to avoid the crowds, consider going anytime from November through March. Being in a national park in winter isn’t the ideal travel magnet, but this is what appeals to visitors who wish to enjoy the CVNP on their own.

If you’re not able to make it within this time frame, don’t sweat it — you can always avoid the busy crowds by arriving early in the morning or in the afternoons.

The worst time to visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park is in summer (June to August). Weather-wise, it’s hot and humid, the park’s overly crowded, and enjoying your stay there may be a bit more challenging.

That said, the interesting events taking place in that period make up for all the summer fuss and chaos.

On the whole, the best time to visit depends on the adventure you’re pursuing, but one thing’s certain — whenever you go and whatever you do once there, you’ll quickly realize why paying Cuyahoga Valley a visit is absolutely worth it. Happy travels!