One of the goals Dave and I have since retiring is to visit as many national parks as we can. During the past week, we were able to check off Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Located just north of Akron, Ohio, CVNP boasts 125 miles of hiking trails, a section of the Ohio Erie towpath trail, which borders an abandoned canal once used to transit goods, and a 2-hour scenic train ride. A stop that has biking, hiking, and swimming (for Murphy) is perfect for us.
Biking: When Dave was given a “Bike Map” upon arriving to the city campground (located in Stow, OH), we knew this was going to be a great stop. Running alongside our campground was a “Bike & Hike” trail which Dave and I rode most mornings. We could connect to the Ohio Erie towpath trail from this bike trail which provided different routes to take each day.
Hiking: As mentioned above, CVNP has miles and miles of hiking trails. We always navigate toward waterfalls trails, so the three of us first hiked to Brandywine Falls. We also hiked the popular Ledges trail, where we hiked around a plateau of striking rock formations, which included a closed off bat cave (for their protection).
Swimming: Voted by Murphy as the #1 dog park this year, Bow Wow Beach, located in the same city park as our campground, was a blast for him. Unfortunately, due to weather constraints, he only enjoyed it twice. Swimming to his hearts content and running around with his new pals, Murphy was in heaven.
Our next stop was Baylor Beach Park, southwest of Canton, OH. Unfortunately, Murphy could not swim in its two lakes, one was for people swimming only and the other for paddle boats or funyaks. However, they had a mini golf course so Dave and I enjoyed a round.
We did find a local waterfall hike to Dundee Falls and a brewery for a great early dinner.
Looking forward to fun Brenda, Big event coming soon Dave, I want to go back to Bow Wow Beach Murphy
OHIO!, – beautiful parks and trails!, – who-duh thought 😉
The pics make it look like a place to visit, though. Thanks.
I’ll bet Mr. Murphy is the swimming champ in those doggy play pools!
You guys enjoy!
Still sweltering, Wes
Awesome pictures. I read about the bats dying. It was interesting.
You mentioned weather restraints and Murphy not being able to swim. Murphy is a lab, he can swim in the most challenging conditions. Just ask Murphy.
Glad you two are enjoying your retirement
Keep ghe pictures and your blog going. . .