Family Outings

Look it’s a bird, and a bigger bird, and there’s a beaver!

When’s the last time you took the kids to see birds bigger than they are? The Great Blue Herons, iconic Canalway residents, offer such a treat.

Outings are naturally fun in the Canalway, whether traveling along the 81+ mile Towpath Trail or visiting the new African Elephant Crossing exhibit at the Cleveland Zoo! And with two zoos, two Halls of Fame and one of the “Top 10” most visited National Parks - the choices for combined learning & classic fun bring the phrase “110 Miles. Endless Possibilities.” to life for family outings of all kinds. 

Where to start? Here are a few ideas!

Try Questing - our new outdoor adventure mystery series. Over 20 Quests are now available in the region. Follow the clues to solve the mystery - and find the hidden box - contained in each Quest. (April 15 - November 15) Free & fun for school age to adults!

Birding anyone? Over 400 species have been discovered in Ohio! Head to the Bird Watching & Wildlife Section for 20+ suggested Birding adventures. Free!

Junior Rangers - Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Children ages 7 -12 can earn badges while learning to care for our National Park. (Ages 4 to 6 have their own program!)
Learn more: http://www.nps.gov/cuva/forkids/beajuniorranger.htm Free!

Bike Aboard!
Bike Aboard! will resume full service in August. For more information please visit www.cvsr.com.
Bike the trail, ride the rail for $3. Flag down the train at a boarding station along the Scenic Rail in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Great family fun! (Seasonal)

Go on Discovery Drives - There’s always more to explore — from Hale Farm & Village and the Revolutionary War site of Fort Laurens to the Great Lakes Science Center and the Pro Football Hall of Fame. In Canal Fulton alone, families can enjoy a picnic, canal boat ride, an adventure on the Towpath Trail, a visit to a museum and, of course, ice cream.

Canalway Samplers - New to the Canalway?
Try a Sampler - favorite outings suggested by local experts - complete with insider tips for fun. Look for those with the Family Outings icon!

Key Tips from those who’ve gone before you :)

On Towpath outings
Bring maps, water, be aware of weather conditions, and each child’s limitations.
 
Canalway Alerts
Check before you go!
Each of the Park Districts and the National Park post temporary trail closures. Find links here.