At 60-feet, Brandywine Falls is the highest natural waterfall in Ohio. Here the Brandywine Creek drops over granite cliffs onto the rocks below. Depending on the time of year and weather, it can be a gentle fall or a raging torrent. A partially-accessible boardwalk will take you near the falls and give you plenty of opportunities for great photos. There is parking lot nearby and the spot can be crowded during summer weekends. You can also hike the 1.5 mile trail that will take you around the falls and introduce you to some of the historic aspects of the area.

The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad runs the length of the park from north to south. Air-conditioned cars will take you through the park’s scenery as you relax in comfort. The train also has specialty experiences such as North Pole Adventure, Ales on Rales or a murder mystery ride. It’s also available for bike riders. If you ride your bike through the park, you can load up your bike and ride the train back to your starting point for $5.  For kayakers, you can paddle down the Cuyahoga River and catch the train back to your starting point. Cost to ride with a kayak is $10.

The towpath trail is a remnant of the old Ohio & Erie Canal. The canal was a major transportation route for much of the 19^th century, until it was damaged in a storm in 1913. By then, other forms of transportation replaced it. But running along the old canal is the towpath, used to tow vehicles through the canal and locks. Today, the towpath is a major recreational byway. Restored and consisting mostly of crushed gravel and boardwalks, the towpath runs through the entirety of the park. It’s the go-to place for light hiking, jogging and biking. You can also take the train (see above) back to your starting point for a small cost.