Discover American culture and canal-era history as well as recreation opportunities amidst the natural wonders of the Ohio & Erie Canalway. You can explore using the Towpath Trail (by bike, foot and even horseback in some areas), riding the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad or motoring along our America’s Byway. From lakes to waterfalls, rivers to trails, views from train windows to the deep gorges of a National Natural Landmark — it’s all waiting for you here.

Where to Go in the Canalway

Find historic destinations, trailheads, visitor centers, museums and more using our listings.

Maps

Download on-the-go maps for your Canalway adventures. Use our interactive map showing Canalway destinations to plan your trip.

Canalway Samplers

Not sure where to start your journey? Check out our Canalway Samplers — itineraries compiled by locals that showcase favorite day trips throughout the National Heritage Area.

Before You Go

Don't forget to check out our alerts section for trail or road closings, as well as our trail & preserve etiquette to make sure your experience is enjoyable for everyone. In the event of an emergency, always call 911.

Go on a Quest

Questing is a fun outdoor adventure series in the Ohio & Erie Canalway. Quests are designed to help you discover the natural and cultural gems of the National Heritage Area and Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Get started!

• Award-winning vistas – Outdoor Photographer magazine named Cuyahoga Valley National Park one of the top 25 spots in the world for nature photography. (Yes, in the world!)

• The air is filled with birdsong – According to Audubon Ohio, “nearly three million people in Ohio participate in some form of wildlife-watching activity.” Over 250 bird species call the Canalway home!

• Naturally fun family outings – A portion of the Towpath Trail has been named one of the Top 10 Family Trails by the American Hiking Association.

• The joy of old-school travel – Watch the Canalway unfold aboard the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad – named one of the Top 10 Excursion Railways in the USA.

• A runner’s paradise – The annual Towpath Marathon allows runner to experience the northern most portion of the Towpath Trail each October.

• A wealth of national treasures – Tinkers Creek (Cleveland Metroparks), a National Natural Landmark; Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens (Akron), President McKinley’s Tomb (Stark) and a 4-mile section of watered canal in the National Park — all National Historic Landmarks; and the First Ladies Library (Canton), a National Historic Site, to name a few.

• Cultural Meccas – The Pro Football Hall of Fame (Canton), the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (Cleveland) and the First Ladies Library (Canton) all celebrate heritage unique to America.

• A Heritage of riches – The Canalway boasts 385 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places.

• Cuyahoga Valley National Park – One of our country’s Top 10 most visited parks, complemented by the award-winning County Park Districts in Cuyahoga, Summit, Stark and Tuscarawas counties.