Our journey today took us on a train ride through Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio. After the train ride, we saw a part of the park called “The Ledges.” The Ledges is an intricate geological system of crevices, cracks and spaces that appear to have been carved into the rock, but were actually naturally formed.
The train ride followed the Cuyahoga River through the park.
Along the way, we got to see how the Cuyahoga River was used as part of a canal system that connected southern Ohio to Lake Erie.
It is a challenge to try to capture sights like this lock from a moving train. The conductor was a great guide to the history and sights of the area. He gave us time to prepare for taking pictures along the way.
This is the the train we rode through the park.
Here was our first view of the Ledges. This clearly shows a path through the rocks, but the evidence indicates the area was naturally formed.
The size of the formation is massive. Here is a picture that shows the scale of the rock formations. In addition to being tall, the formation covers enough area that it is over two miles to walk around it .
Some parts of the hike go through clear paths with straight walls. Other places have rough walls and rocky paths.
The variations in types of rock and the way the paths weave about makes for a sometimes difficult hike, but also makes for new views at every turn.
In some places, the rocks appear to lean so far over that it looks like you need someone or something to hold it up.
Another interesting aspect of this area is how trees grow in solid rock. Here is one view of the trees in the rocks that appears more natural.
In other areas though, you can hardly believe the trees could grow where they stand.
In some places, the root system is actually out of the ground. The trees cling tightly to the rocks to grow and thrive.
The hike around and through the Ledges has many ways to proceed. You can keep to the wider path, or you can walk up or down through the various rock formations.
Here is an extreme version of a connecting path. This picture is taken from one path, but we saw a couple walking on an alternative path at the top of this crevice.
This photo shows one of the places where the formations are truly massive.
Here is another photo that shows the colors of the formations.
At the top of the ledges, there is an opening that presents a panoramic view of the area.
From near the edge of the ledge, you can see for miles and miles.
The hike through the ledges only took about two hours, but it covered more variety and scenery than we have seen on similar hikes in other places.