Looking down on the Cuyahoga River from Cascade Overlook.
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Gorge Metro Park

4.7
·3k reviews·Cuyahoga Falls, United States

Gorge Metro Park offers scenic river views, rocky outcroppings, and trails, showcasing the Cuyahoga River's restoration.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Looking down on the Cuyahoga River from Cascade Overlook.

Gorge Metro Park

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Gorge Metro Park offers scenic river views, rocky outcroppings, and trails, showcasing the Cuyahoga River's restoration.

4.7
(3k reviews)

"Beautiful scenery along the Cuyahoga River with a well-marked trail leading to the dam and waterfall."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Hiking Shoes

The Gorge Trail can be challenging with steps & uneven footing. Sturdy shoes are a must!

💧 Check Trail Status

Some riverfront trails may be closed for maintenance due to dam removal. Always check ahead.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gorge Trail & Dam

Gorge Trail & Dam

Along the Cuyahoga River

Explore the scenic Gorge Trail, leading to the now-decommissioned Edison Dam. Witness nature's restoration efforts.

Instagram+1
Mary Campbell Cave

Mary Campbell Cave

Gorge Trail

Discover this fascinating, naturally carved cave along the Gorge Trail. A unique geological feature worth the hike.

Reddit
Rocky Outcroppings & River Views

Rocky Outcroppings & River Views

Various points along trails

Enjoy stunning views of the Cuyahoga River and impressive rocky formations. Perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

InstagramReddit
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Planning Your Visit

Dam Removal & Trail Access

The Edison Dam is being removed, impacting some riverfront trails. Check current access before your visit. Wear sturdy shoes for uneven terrain and steps, especially on the Gorge Trail. Instagram

Best Times for Fewer Crowds

Weekdays and early mornings are ideal to avoid crowds, especially on popular trails like the Gorge Trail. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for a more serene experience. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Fall afternoons
Why
Vibrant foliage, crisp air
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

the cuyahoga river is the infamous “river that burned” due to all the pollutants it contained from industrialization and city sprawl. this park is proof that ecosystem rehabillitation and restoration is possible. this is about preserving the earth not just for our own mere enjoyment but for the existence of any and all life in the future. #cuyahogavalleynationalpark #cvnp #nationalparks #worstnati...
@lilaclaurels
259.4K likes • 2.4M views

👟 Wear Hiking Shoes

The Gorge Trail can be challenging with steps & uneven footing. Sturdy shoes are a must! Reddit

💧 Check Trail Status

Some riverfront trails may be closed for maintenance due to dam removal. Always check ahead. Instagram

a kiss for anyone who knows where this waterfall is #cuyahogavalleynationalpark #nationalparks #waterfalls #ohio #hiddengems #midwest
@lilaclaurels
193.1K likes • 1.5M views
GORGE Metro Park is one of the beautiful park in Stow, Ohio. #stow #gorgemetropark #park #nature #ecotourism #greentourism #ohio #lifeisbeautiful #fall #waterfalls #usa
lilabaniya
29 likes • 510 views

📸 Drone Photography

Capture stunning aerial views of the park and river with a drone. Instagram

🧺 Picnic Spots Available

Enjoy a meal amidst nature with picnic tables and restrooms conveniently located. Reddit

❗️Save ❗️These NE Ohio Bucket List 🥾's <><><><><><><><><><><><><><> 📍Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park 📍 Whipp's Ledges 📍Gorge Metro Park 📍 Worden's Ledges 📍 Cuyahoga Valley National Park ~ Ritchie Ledges :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: #nelsonledges #whippsledges #gorgemetropark #wordensledges #ritchieledges #bestohiohikes #hikeohio #getoutside #oFa #ohiofami...
swopefamilyadventures
6.1K likes • 192.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Hiking Shoes

The Gorge Trail can be challenging with steps & uneven footing. Sturdy shoes are a must! Reddit

💧 Check Trail Status

Some riverfront trails may be closed for maintenance due to dam removal. Always check ahead. Instagram

📸 Drone Photography

Capture stunning aerial views of the park and river with a drone. Instagram

🧺 Picnic Spots Available

Enjoy a meal amidst nature with picnic tables and restrooms conveniently located. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Gorge Metro Park for its beautiful scenery, well-maintained trails, and convenient amenities like picnic areas and restrooms. The park is noted for its scenic river views and unique rocky outcroppings. Some trails can be challenging due to steps and uneven footing, and occasional trail closures due to dam removal may occur.

"Lovely park and trails. Summit county metro parks are always improving, so I look forward to every visit being better than the last. The grounds are well maintained. There are picnic tables in open areas to rest, and there's handicap parking for those of us seniors who just want to take a short stroll. Also, there are bathrooms close, and the parking lot is well maintained."

A K

"Beautiful scenery in the middle of the city. Great views of the river. Scenic rocky outcroppings. Convenient parking with nice restrooms. The gorge trail by the river is paved for a bit and then gets a bit tricky down to the dam. Worth the effort to relax in this incredible setting!"

William Stubbs

"It’s so amazing waterfall but smiles like bad but other everything we love"

Moti Rai

What People Like

Beautiful scenery
Well-maintained trails
River views

What People Dislike

Challenging trails
Trail closures

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Gorge Metro Park is located in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. It's accessible by car, with convenient parking available. Many visitors arrive via personal vehicle. Instagram+1

Public transport options to Gorge Metro Park can be limited. It's best to check local transit schedules for routes serving the Cuyahoga Falls area. Reddit

There are well-maintained parking lots available, including handicap parking, making it easy to access the park's amenities. Reddit

Gorge Metro Park is part of the Summit Metro Parks system and is near other natural areas like Liberty Park and the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Instagram+1

While some trails are suitable for biking, the Gorge Trail itself can be challenging with steps and uneven footing, making it unsuitable for bikes. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Gorge Metro Park is a county park and generally offers free admission, making it an accessible natural escape. Reddit

Park hours typically align with daylight, but it's always a good idea to check the Summit Metro Parks website for specific seasonal hours. Reddit

No, advance booking is not required for general park entry. You can visit anytime during operating hours. Reddit

Summit Metro Parks occasionally hosts events. Check their official website or social media for any upcoming guided walks or programs. Instagram

While the park offers beautiful scenery, some trails like the Gorge Trail have challenging terrain, steps, and uneven footing, which may not be suitable for very young children, strollers, or wheelchairs. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The Gorge Trail is highly recommended for its scenic views of the river and rocky outcroppings, leading to the Edison Dam. The Bike & Hike Trail also offers rocky views. InstagramReddit

Yes, you can see the remnants of the Edison Dam which creates a waterfall effect on the Cuyahoga River. Instagram+1

Absolutely! Gorge Metro Park offers a variety of trails with some elevation changes, making for a challenging and rewarding hike. Reddit

Yes, the park provides clean flush toilets and picnic tables in open areas, conveniently located near the parking lot. Reddit

The removal of the Edison Dam is part of an effort to restore the Cuyahoga River's ecosystem and improve water quality. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The Gorge Trail offers dramatic views of the river, rocky outcroppings, and the dam area. Drone photography is also popular here. InstagramReddit

Yes, the park's natural beauty, including the river, rock formations, and the dam, provides excellent opportunities for landscape photography. Instagram

Drone usage is permitted, and many visitors capture stunning aerial footage of the park's features. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Reddit

The Mary Campbell Cave and the views of the Cuyahoga River from the rocky ledges are unique and photogenic spots. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Gorge Metro Park offers a natural playground for families, but some trails require caution. The Gorge Trail has steps and uneven terrain, so it might be challenging for strollers or very young children. Reddit However, the paved sections near the parking lot and picnic areas are accessible and provide a pleasant space for a short stroll or a family picnic. Reddit Look for open areas with picnic tables and restrooms for a convenient family outing. Reddit

Consider exploring the less rugged parts of the park or focusing on the areas around the picnic grounds. The park's natural beauty and the chance to see the river can still be engaging for children. Always supervise children closely, especially near the riverbanks and rocky areas. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts

For avid hikers, Gorge Metro Park presents a rewarding experience with its varied terrain. The Gorge Trail offers a good workout with its undulations and steps, leading to impressive views of the Cuyahoga River and the former Edison Dam. InstagramReddit The park's rocky outcroppings and the natural formations like Mary Campbell Cave provide fascinating geological points of interest. TikTokReddit

Nature lovers will appreciate the park's role in the Cuyahoga River's restoration. TikTok While some trails might be temporarily closed due to dam removal, the accessible paths still offer ample opportunities for observing local flora and fauna. Instagram Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as some trails can be demanding. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Cuyahoga River Restoration

Gorge Metro Park is a testament to the remarkable restoration of the Cuyahoga River. Once heavily polluted from industrialization, the river has seen significant improvements in water quality. TikTok+1 The ongoing removal of the Edison Dam is a crucial step in this process, aiming to further enhance the river's ecosystem and natural flow. Instagram Visitors can witness this transformation firsthand by exploring the trails along the riverbanks and observing the revitalized natural environment. TikTok

This park showcases how nature can recover when given the chance. The efforts to clean up the river not only benefit wildlife but also create beautiful recreational spaces for the community. TikTok The park's existence and the river's recovery serve as a powerful symbol of environmental stewardship and the possibility of ecological healing. TikTok

When visiting, take a moment to appreciate the history of the river and the ongoing efforts to protect it. The trails offer a peaceful way to connect with nature and reflect on the importance of conservation. TikTokInstagram

Exploring the Gorge Trail and Beyond

The Gorge Trail is a highlight of Gorge Metro Park, offering a moderately challenging hike with significant elevation changes and uneven terrain. Reddit This trail leads visitors along the Cuyahoga River, past scenic rocky outcroppings, and towards the historic Edison Dam. Instagram Be prepared for steps and potentially tricky footing, making sturdy walking shoes essential. Reddit

Beyond the main Gorge Trail, the park features other paths like the Bike & Hike Trail, which also provides interesting rocky views, particularly along the Sharon Conglomerate rock walls. Instagram While some sections of the trail closer to the river may be closed due to dam removal activities, the accessible parts still offer a rewarding experience. Reddit Always check the current trail status before your visit to plan your exploration effectively. Instagram

For those seeking unique geological features, the Mary Campbell Cave is a must-see along the Gorge Trail. Reddit This naturally carved cave offers a glimpse into the area's natural history and provides a memorable stop during your hike. Reddit

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