Did you know that there's a national park near little old Cleveland -- and that it's one of the most amazing places to visit in the country?! While Cuyahoga Valley National Park is certainly not new to the Ohio area, it has only been a national park since the year 2000. This place is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering bucket-list-worthy adventures -- all in our own backyard! From walking or riding the Towpath to trekking through rugged terrain into deep forests with gushing waterfalls, when you pay a visit to this national park near Cleveland, you're sure to find an adventure you'll enjoy. The best part? The park is completely free to visit, explore, and experience! If you’ve never paid a visit to Cuyahoga Valley National Park, let the following reasons help convince you to put this pristine park near Cleveland at the top of your bucket list.

1. The Ledges

The Ledges is one of the most jaw dropping areas of the park you can hike through. Over 400 million years ago, this area of Ohio was covered by an ancient sea. Melting glaciers, thousands of years passing and weather are all factors which have formed what are now the ledges. You will feel like you’ve stepped into another world in this part of the park.

2. Blue Hen Falls

This is one of the park’s prettiest and most popular waterfalls. Blue Hen Falls is easy to access with a short .5 mile hike. Visit this waterfall anytime during the year and you won’t be disappointed. Whether the water is raging from a recent rain or it’s completely frozen in time by the cold and snow, you will always be granted a gorgeous view by this park favorite.

3. Buttermilk Falls

This lesser known, but still incredible waterfall can be found downstream from Blue Hen Falls. While there isn’t an official park trail, you can still easily access this one by following a distinguishable trail created naturally by frequent locals visiting.

4. Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail

This towpath trail follows the historic route of the Ohio and Erie Canal, which was originally created to provide a transportation route from Cleveland to Portsmouth. You can walk or bike this trail and enjoy some incredible views along the way including forests, fields and wetlands.

5. Everett Covered Bridge

While there’s no trail here, this is the only remaining covered bridge in Summit County. In 2006 the National Park Foundation listed this bridge as one of the top ten places for photography on public lands so be sure to snap some photos while you’re here!

6. Twin Sister Falls

This majestic waterfall has no trail and is not listed on any national park website, but it’s one you don’t want to miss. With fairly easy access from the Brecksville Reservation, this pair of waterfalls will gently remind you of how truly small we are in this world. Check out Natural Ohio’s website for directions.

7. Brandywine Falls

One of the park’s most popular destinations, Brandywine Falls is an impressive 65-foot waterfall that was carved by Brandywine Creek. There is an easy-to-access boardwalk which brings you as close to the water as the park allows. While you’re here, hike the Brandywine Gorge Trail where you can explore more of the area nearby.

8. Ledges Scenic Overlook

Part of the Ledges trailhead, this overlook is popular due to its vast view of Cuyahoga Valley. This location is ideal to watch sunsets, and is at its most beautiful in the fall when the leaves begin to change.

9. Greenwood Falls

Greenwood falls shares similar qualities with Buttermilk falls. It can found in the Brecksville Reservation and, like Twin Sister Falls, does not have a true trail to follow. While it’s semi-easy to find, your feet are going to get wet getting there. The hike will take you between 30-40 minutes but the scenic walk is well worth it.

Don't be fooled by this list of nine, as there are so many other great areas of this national park near Cleveland, Ohio, to visit, too! You can find more information on what the park has to offer on the Cuyahoga Valley National Park page of the National Parks Service's website. What are your favorite spots to explore when you pay a visit to Cuyahoga Valley National Park near Cleveland?

While Cuyahoga is the only national park in Ohio, it's by no means the only amazing park near Cleveland. Here are some superlative Buckeye State Park superstars that are well-worth exploring!