Brandywine Falls

Embark on a captivating journey to the breathtaking Brandywine Falls, where nature’s power and beauty converge in a spectacular display. This 60-foot waterfall, cascading gracefully from rocky cliffs, was once the heart of a bustling town. Visitors can admire this natural wonder from a well-maintained boardwalk that offers panoramic views, allowing the roar of the water to envelop them in a symphony of nature. Shh! I have to confess that even though I tend to get bored with trails once I have hiked them, Brandywine Falls was so amazing that I drove back again the next week just to see it.

For those with a thirst for adventure, the park also features a rugged gorge trail loop that promises a more challenging hike through the dense forest, showcasing the lush scenery and diverse wildlife of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

In the early 1800s, visionary entrepreneur George Wallace harnessed the immense energy of the waterfall to build a sawmill, marking the beginning of a thriving industrial community. As the years went by, other mills—grist mills and woolen mills—followed suit, powered by the reliable flow of water, turning the area into a vibrant hub for local commerce.

One of these flourishing communities was named Brandywine Village, a testament to the region’s rich history. The stream that meanders through the land, a tributary of the Cuyahoga River, proudly carries the name Brandywine Creek, forever linking the past with the present and inviting exploration of its enchanting surroundings.

Hiking the Trail

Nearby Visits:

The Village of Peninsula serves as a prominent gateway to Cuyahoga Valley National Park, strategically situated along the Cuyahoga River. This location is surrounded by some of Ohio’s most cherished parks and trails. One notable walking route is along the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, which leads south to Deep Lock Quarry Park. This site features an intriguing abandoned 19th-century Berea sandstone quarry that offers opportunities for exploration.

As you continue along the towpath trail, you can access various points of interest, including the Peninsula Python territory, Everett Swamp, the historic Everett Covered Bridge, and Indigo Lake.

For those heading north along the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail from Peninsula, there is the Lonesome Lock, a site reputed to have ghostly legends associated with it.

Additionally, nearby attractions include the distinct trails available at Blue Hen Falls, accessible from the Boston Mill Visitor Center, and Brandywine Falls, both of which offer scenic views and hiking experiences.