Kids & Youth

Two girls playing with a canal boat model. — Junior Ranger Challenges and programs are offered regularly in summer.
NPS

Explore Cuyahoga Valley Together

Are you looking for fun, kid-friendly activities? Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers rich history, scenic views, and wildlife watching experiences. Enjoy the following opportunities to dive deeper into nature and history together.

From June - August, stop in to do a Junior Ranger Challenge.
Complete the Junior Ranger Handbook or Junior Jr. Ranger Activities.
Go Canalway Questing.
Enjoy hands-on activities in the Everett area.
Go to a program.
Go on a hike.
Help the park through a Service Learning Opportunity.
Visit Hale Farm & Village.
Explore family-friendly exhibits at Canal Exploration Center, Brecksville Nature Center, and F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm.
Picnic at a summer Blossom Music Festival concert with free tickets for youth under 18.

If you have any questions talk to a ranger at Boston Mill Visitor Center, e-mail us, or call us.

Tips for Hiking with Children

If you're new to hiking with children, consider the following tips:

Dress children in layers and bring clothing for changing weather conditions.
Bring along a liter of water per person and a snack.
Bring sunscreen and insect repellent. Avoid fragrant lotions that may attract insects.
Choose a hike that is appropriate for your child, and isn't too long. Keep your trip fun.
Take frequent breaks when hiking with young children. It gives them time to rest and explore.
Bring along a camera. Pictures will help them remember the experience.
Take time to talk with children and encourage them to explore things along the trail.

Every Kid Outdoors

Every Kid Outdoors connects fourth graders and their families to public lands. Complete a fun activity and get your voucher for free admission today.

Take a Virtual Visit

Can you only visit the park virtually today? We have the following activities available on our website and on our non-profit friends group, the Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park's website.

Become a virtual Junior Ranger.
Explore our educational resources.
Play a game.
Make a craft.
Talk to your teacher about school programs at Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
See below to research the park.

Research the Park

Park Basics

Start with the basics - where Cuyahoga Valley is and how it became a national park.
Nature

Learn about how the Cuyahoga River and other park habitats provide opportunities for plants and animals to flourish.
History & Culture

History runs deep in the valley, with over 12,000 years of human occupation. Learn more about the interplay of natural and cultural history.
Being a Park Ranger

Learn about the job of park rangers, who care for and protect some of America’s favorite places.
Being a Park Scientist

Learn about the job of park scientists, who help preserve Cuyahoga Valley's natural resources for future generations.
Changes in Transportation

Learn about how travelers have taken advantage of the valley’s pathway on foot, canoe, horse, canal boat, train, and interstate highway.