Ride This Scenic Ohio Train Through a Stunning National Park

Trade hiking trails for train rails as you admire a national park from the window of the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. Cuyahoga Valley National Park is the jewel of Northeast Ohio, and a popular destination for hiking, biking, paddling, and horseback riding. Spanning more than 32,000 acres, it offers ample ground to cover across a variety of habitats. To make the most of your time, see the park by train The historic Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad winds 26 miles through the park, offering a comfortable vantage to take it all in.

The train has been chugging its way through the region for more than a century. The Valley Railway began operating in 1880 to transport freight and passengers to Cleveland, Akron, and Canton. Operations ceased in 191 after the decline of railway shipping and transportation. Decades later, local groups saw the value in creating a scenic railroad to promote tourism excursions in the area. The Cuyahoga Valley Line ran its first scenic train in 1975, just six months after Cuyahoga Valley National Park was established. It is the nation’s only park with an operating heritage railroad.

Today, Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad passengers weave from urban centers over hills and through forests along the Cuyahoga River. Try to spot wildlife like deer, herons, and beavers from the comfort of your plush seat on a restored railroad car. The railroad’s fleet of historic locomotives and train cars dates back to 1940 and includes ADA cars and a rotating children’s museum in the "Edu-trainment" car. You can even enjoy a meal in the dome of a vintage 1948 California Zephyr car while taking in panoramic views.

You have several options for climbing aboard the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. For the signature experience, opt for the 3.5-hour National Park Scenic excursion that transports you through historic towns and natural landscapes. A two-hour version of this experience is a great option for those traveling with children. Passengers can choose a seating option for their comfort level from a variety of seating options including coach, table top, and first class. The Ride All Day option allows passengers to hop on and off between different stations over one day to explore the park. The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad also offers a number of specialty excursions like "ales on rails," murder mystery, canvas and wine, and ghost tales. Little ones will love family excursions like cookie decorating, crafting, and the North Pole Adventure.

Bikers are also welcome on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. The Explorer program is a popular seasonal option for visitors who bike one way on the national park’s Towpath Trail and catch the train back at one of several stations for just $5 per ride. 

Whether you’re taking the train as part of a summer bike ride, fall foliage ride, or magical holiday experience, the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad is one of the most unique ways to experience Cuyahoga Valley National Park. For more information about the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, check out its website. Weekends and seasonal excursions are popular, so be sure to purchase your tickets in advance.