Cuyahoga Valley National Park truly is Ohio's proudest crown jewel. Hilly and lush, full of rivers and valleys, it's a pristine place that takes on divine beauty during the height of fall foliage. It's the kind of immersive beauty that's best enjoyed slowly and deliberately, and the National Scenic Park Ride aboard the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad is the perfect way to do just that. Each fall, this Ohio train takes lucky adventurers on the journey of a lifetime, through some of the most stunning fall foliage you've ever seen.

One of Ohio's best-kept secrets, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a place of immense natural beauty and splendor.

Although the park was designated as a National Recreation Area in 1974, it didn't officially join the ranks as an official national park until 2000.

Cuyahoga Valley NP is located just a short drive from Akron and Cleveland, but it feels like an entire world unto itself.

This 33,000-acre expanse in the Cuyahoga River Valley is home to gorgeous wetlands, lush forests, numerous waterfalls, gorges, and breathtaking scenery and overlooks.

The park is arguably at its most dazzling in the fall, when its abundant sugar maples and oak trees paint the trails in bright red and orange hues, rewarding hikers with a dazzling display of color.

If you're up for a more intense trek, the Brandywine Gorge Trail is one of the best places to soak up the park's natural beauty; hike up to the 65-foot Brandywine Falls to see panoramic views of fall foliage in all directions.

But the hiking and biking trails aren't the only way to enjoy the seasonal splendor of Ohio's national park darling; if you want a more leisurely fall foliage experience, hop aboard the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad for a scenic ride that will render you speechless!

That's right - Ohio's favorite national park has its very own scenic railroad, and this is its most popular excursion.

On this two-hour train ride, folks are treated to a slow and leisurely tour de force of glorious Ohio fall foliage from all angles.

Guests can opt to board at the railroad's two train depots: Rockside Station, located at 7900 Old Rockside Road in Independence and at Akron Northside Station, located at 27 Ridge St. in Akron. Sit back and relax as the train weaves through the Cuyahoga Valley and races along with the rushing Cuyahoga River.

The route provides passengers the opportunity to possibly spot eagles, deer, beavers, and herons in their natural habitat.

But the highlight of the ride is, hands down, the fall foliage. The kaleidoscope of fall colors in this region of Ohio easily rivals Vermont or Maine. But it's even better, because this sublime seasonal experience is one you can have right here in the beautiful Buckeye State!

Have you taken a ride aboard the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad in past seasons? While fall is a magical time of year in Ohio, this train ride takes the entire experience to new heights. Visit the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad website for more information on the National Parks excursion... rides book up fast, especially during peak color.

Where & When To See Fall Foliage In Ohio

Where can you find the best fall foliage in Ohio? When is the fall foliage expected to peak? There are so many amazing places you can go to witness fall foliage in Ohio at its amazing peak. Did you know that there are more than 75 utterly incredible state parks in Ohio alone? Yep - and every single one makes for an amazing autumn outing. Fall colors in Ohio typically begin to show in mid-to-late September, and by the end of October, they'll have peaked - so plan accordingly! It's a fleeting time, but goodness, is it ever magical.

Know Before You Go:

The National Park scenic ride ranges from $18 to $39 per person; the ride goes year-round, but your best bet for autumn amazingness is to come out in late September until late October. Cuyahoga Valley National Park is already an absolutely jaw-dropping place - just wait 'til you see it in the fall. Need an amazing place to stay nearby while you explore?

Check out this amazing relaxation suite vacation rental in Ohio located right in the heart of all the color!