“My absolute favorite spot in CVNP is Blue Hen Falls, which is a smaller waterfall than Brandywine, but set back on a trail deep in the woods. The same trail leads further back to another waterfall – Buttermilk Falls, which is also very beautiful. The hike is nice through the woods, and at the falls you are able to see some of our local geology come out with all the exposed Shale. When I am looking for a more active hike, I love to hike the Legdes in between Rt 303 and Truxel Road. This is a truly unique hiking location here in CVNP, with the exposed rock outcrops, it's like walking in the land before time. This place easily allows me to imagine what things looked like before people were here. There are some caves to explore and lots of wooded areas around to keep it cool.”
Jennifer Bucheit
Environmental Education Coordinator
“I love the Music in the Meadow concerts. Regardless of the featured artist my co-workers and I like to pack a picnic basket and enjoy the view and crowd at Howe Meadow.
My newly found activity is exploring a new hiking trail. There is never a lack of new places to go especially with the 104 miles of hiking trails.
I always enjoy stopping in Park Place in Peninsula to see what new merchandise is available.”
Patricia Clark
Reservation Coordinator
“For me, an early-morning bike ride on the Towpath is a great way to start the day. It’s so peaceful and leaves me feeling refreshed. I also love the Farmer's Market on Saturday mornings. Ooooh, those yummy cinnamon rolls!”
Connie Dages
Office Manager, Environmental Education Center
“As I continually learn and explore Cuyahoga Valley National Park, I have found so many beautiful and peaceful places to hike. Even though it's a shorter trail, I love the view at Blue Hen Falls. It's extremely scenic and calm with the sound of the waterfall hitting the rocks below. Once you reach the falls, there's a nice bench to relax on and take in the views!”
Ralph J. Davila, APR
Director of Public Relations and Marketing
“I love to run on the Towpath after work, all seasons, in any weather. I usually go out between Boston and Peninsula, but will do any section depending upon where I am at the end of the day. I usually take out of town guests on Bike Aboard, and ride the Towpath.
I also enjoy volunteering at Polar Express as the man in the red suit.It’s hard work, but immensely fun and rewarding. I love doing the same at Park Place on Sundays in December.
I especially enjoy grabbing a sandwich and some ice cream at Trail Mix. I get the chance to mingle with park visitors, and learn about what others think about our park.”
John P. Debo, Jr.
Chief Development Officer
“I love so many things about the park, it's hard to name just a few…
Early morning rides through the valley after a snowfall when everything is peaceful and the snow twinkles, walks on the Towpath with my husband and our dogs, concerts at Happy Days, Howe Meadow, and Hines Hill, sitting by the side of Indigo Lake when the sky is blue and the trees are colorful, making snow angels and laughing after falling down while cross-country skiing… I could go on and on!”
Maureen Reich
Administrative Services Director
“There is nothing more relaxing than a long bike ride on the Towpath after work. There are so many beautiful sights that I encounter during each trip. It’s amazing to see so much diversity within a few miles as I travel though forests, wetlands, farms and train stations. Each bike ride is a totally unique experience!”
Jared Slanina
Communications Specialist
“I really enjoy hiking on the trails in the park with my three granddaughters. We especially like the Towpath, the Virginia Kendall lake area and the Ledges Trail. When I walk on the trails I feel renewed in body, mind and spirit.”
Dave Telfer
TRAILS FOREVER Campaign Director
“I love to bike and you can't beat the Towpath, especially during early evening hours. Bike Aboard is a fantastic deal and such a fun experience for those of us who love to bike in the park.
I really enjoy hiking to Blue Hen Falls. It's fabulous during any season, any weather.
My favorite spot is not open to the public. It's the ponds at CVEEC where watching kids discover critters reminds me why I love my job!”
Deb Yandala
Chief Executive Officer