Some hiking trails can make you feel a million miles away from it all. The Ledges Trail at Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Peninsula, Ohio is one of those enchanting trails — and it’s a must-do. More than 300 million years ago, this trail’s area of the park was actually covered by an ancient sea. Melting glaciers helped to form what are now captivating ledges you can hike through. It’s arguably one of the most scenic trails in Ohio.

Take a look:

Within the Virginia Kendall Unit of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, you'll find this gorgeous trail.
vladeb/Flickr
It features towering cliffs, hemlock trees and several large boulders. Ohio explorers will love this trail.
The trail forms a loop, which is nearly two miles in length.
Jasperdo/Flickr
Several parts are fairly strenuous, so be sure to pace yourself and bring plenty of water.
The Ledges Trail follows the sandstone cliffs that make up Ritchie Ledges. The sandstone cliffs are truly incredible to see.
Benjamin Lehman/Flickr
Along the way, you'll encounter multiple connector trails, so you can lengthen your adventure if you have the time and energy.

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Ritchie Ledges is actually named after a farmer who once owned the land. Today, the area features remnants of stream beds from 320 million years ago.
Jasperdo/Flickr
It's hard to believe the area was once a swamp, with much of the land and rocks submerged in water.
You'll love exploring all the different ledges and crevices. For a while, you'll likely forget you're in Ohio.
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There's even an Ice Box Cave along the trail, however, it's now closed to visitors to protect the bats from White Nose Syndrome.
If you're hiking with the family or children, be sure to hike with caution as several areas can be dangerous.
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If you stay on the trail though, you won't have any problems.
No hike would be complete without a gorgeous view. The Ledges Overlook is simply stunning, so be sure to stop and take it all in.
Yi-Liang (Lucas) Liu/Flickr
(And don't forget to bring your camera!)

The Ledges Shelter and Trailhead is located at Truxell Road / Kendall Park Road, 1 mile west of Akron Cleveland Road, Peninsula 44264.

Have you hiked this trail before? Do you think it’s one of the most scenic trails in Ohio? If so, please share your thoughts, photos and experiences with us!

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More to Explore

Scenic Trails in Ohio

April Dray | December 13, 2019

What are some of the most unique trails you can hike in Ohio?

There are several unique places to hike in Ohio. Worden's Ledges Loop Trail in Hinckley Reservation is a true hidden gem to Ohio explorers and hiking enthusiasts. Other cool Ohio hikes can be found along the lengthier trails. Some of the most popular backpacking trails in Ohio can be found in Wayne National Forest. Additionally, the Buckeye Trail spans the entire state, giving hikers a variety of scenery to explore. 

Are there other scenic trails you can hike in Ohio?

You’ll find several scenic trails in Ohio. Hocking Hills State Park in Logan features some of Ohio’s most scenic trails with caves, waterfalls, gorges, and swinging bridges. It’s easily argued that the best waterfall hike in Ohio might just be the trek to Brandywine Falls, because it features one of the tallest waterfalls in Ohio. Cuyahoga Valley National park features other picturesque falls as well, such as Blue Hen Falls. If you want to see multiple waterfalls in one hike, we recommend taking the Old Man’s Cave Loop at Hocking Hills State Park.

What other historical trails can you hike in Ohio?

Several trails in Ohio lead to ancient earthworks and little-known ruins. Hiking in Ohio is a truly unique experience. The Moonville Rail Trail takes you through remnants of an abandoned coal mining town. In fact, there are several trails in Ohio that are hiding remnants of the state’s coal mining history. If you’ve yet to hike the South Loop Trail at Zaleski State Forest, it’s the perfect trail to take with a group of friends when you have a full day to explore or a weekend free to camp overnight. Along the way, you’ll encounter unique rock formations, beautiful wooded areas and a piece of history or two.

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Ledges Trail, Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Peninsula, OH 44264, USA