Ohio’s national park is a place of immense beauty and splendor; a paradise of lush forests, enchanting waterfalls, wondrous wildlife, and some of the state’s finest hiking trails. While there are numerous bucket-list experiences to be had in Cuyahoga Valley National Park; today, we’re going to share an adventure that’s a bit more off the beaten path. The Ledges are a secret series of caves and rock formations in Ohio’s national park; an intriguing expanse sure to capture your heart and imagination.

Tucked along the Cuyahoga River between Cleveland and Akron, you'll find Ohio's one and only national park.
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Cuyahoga Valley National Park spans a total of 33,000 acres, and showcases the state's finest natural features, from lush forests and captivating rock formations to resplendent waterfalls.
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Although the park was designated as a National Recreation Area in 1974, it wasn't officially named a national park until 2000. Since then, it has become one of the most beloved places for Ohioans to explore, with its 125 miles of trails providing endless adventures through Tolkien-esque landscapes.
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And nowhere is the scenery more magical, nor like Middle Earth, than the Ledges Trail.
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The Ledges Trail follows the commanding and cragged sandstone cliffs that make up Ritchie Ledges. More than 300 million years ago, this trail’s area of the park was actually covered by an ancient sea.
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Winding and rocky, with moss-covered grottos and secret caves, the Ledges Trail is an adventure straight out of a Tolkien fantasy!
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In addition to verdant forest greenery, the 1.8-mile trek leads to the Ledges Overlook. From here, you'll be treated to expansive views of the beautiful Buckeye State landscape. This is a prime spot for viewing the sunset, too!
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Escape into the wondrous wilds of Ohio's very own national park along this enchanting trail. It's the kind of expanse to which John Muir was certainly alluding when he said, "The clearest way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness."
National Parks Service
Go and venture into the Ohio wilderness and discover something new and incredible!

Have you explored the Ledges at Cuyahoga National Park? Ohio’s one and only national park is a beautiful treasure worth visiting time and time again.

Unfortunately, due to its rocky and uneven terrain, the Ledges Trail is not feasible for everyone. If you’re looking for an accessible way to experience Cuyahoga Valley National Park, this waterfall trail is a favorite, as is this train excursion via the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad!

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Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio, USA