Brandywine Falls

One of the most popular attractions in Cuyahoga Valley National Park is Brandywine Falls, also just 25 minutes from downtown Akron. The picturesque 65-foot falls was carved by Brandywine Creek and showcases classic geological features, including a layer of hard rock that caps the waterfall, protecting softer layers of shale rock below. The soft rocks were formed from mud found on the sea floor that covered this area about 400 million years ago, and because the shale is thinly chunked, the water has an intriguing bridal-veil appearance as it cascades down the falls. A combination of boardwalk and steps brings you into the waterfall's gorge and lets you view the waterfall head-on.

Open daily, 7am to 11pm.

Tip: If you want to go exploring, the 1.5-mile Brandywine Gorge starts near the Inn at Brandywine Falls (an historic bed and breakfast) and follows the edge of the gorge, eventually taking you down to creek level. The trail is worth revisiting in the spring to view vernal pools that temporarily fill with water, attracting breeding salamanders. The views of the creek and the layers of rock it has exposed are also worth the walk.

photo: Tom Jones