This new story about the closure of the Brandywine Falls parking lot in Cuyahoga Valley National Park is based on a May 5, 2022, National Park Service press release. You can read the original release here.
Visitors planning to see popular Brandywine Falls, one of the top attractions in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, will have to hike significantly longer than normal this summer.
The National Park Service announced that Cuyahoga Valley closed both the Brandywine Falls parking lot and the upper part of the Brandywine Gorge Trail. Additionally, the sections of the Summit Metro Parks Bike & Hike Trail that lead to the falls are closed, too.
These closures are necessary to allow for multiple construction projects in the area, which will improve public safety in the future.
Hikers can still get to the Brandywine Falls viewing platform, though.
Brandywine Falls Parking Lot and Some Trails Closed Through Summer
The Brandywine Falls parking lot closure will be in effect until September 30, 2022, the National Park Service said. However, they also stated that Cuyahoga Valley National Park staff “will regularly assess conditions and reopen sections if it is safe to do so.”
The boardwalk, falls viewing area, and lower section of the gorge trail will remain open.
Visitors may park at Boston Mill Visitor Center and take the Stanford Trail (approximately 5 miles round trip) to access the falls.
Please note, though, that parking in the Boston area typically fills between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., especially on weekends. You’re advised to plan ahead and arrive either early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
“Because we know that this is a popular place to experience in CVNP, we made a good faith effort to keep the area open during a major construction project.” Said Cuyahoga Valley National Park Superintendent Lisa Petit.
She explained that “as the work progresses, we have been closely monitoring potential hazards in the area and we have found that the parking lot is no longer safe for vehicles and pedestrians. Closing it is the only option at this time, and we will reopen it as soon as conditions allow safe access for the public.”
Earlier this year, Cuyahoga Valley National Park began a major project to improve visitor amenities by constructing a brand-new restroom with running water and its own wastewater treatment system.
Contractors are making progress and are on schedule to complete the project by the end of September.
In addition, Summit County Engineer is replacing a Brandywine Road bridge near the parking lot entrance. The road is closed and a detour is in place.
Please respect all closures, and do not attempt to park along the road or turn around in private driveways.
For more information and updates related to the Brandywine Falls parking lot and trails closure, visit the Brandywine Falls Restroom Improvements page.