Experiencing the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad Steam in the Valley is one of the best experiences in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park and Northeast Ohio. Every summer, the 765 Nickel Plated Locomotive takes its riders back into time.
Having an amazing, magical experience is not as simple as it seems, though. Typically, these train rides sell out far in advance. In addition, being prepared for what you will witness will help make the ride more enjoyable.
When is the best time to experience the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad Steam in the Valley?
The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad Steam in the Valley runs two weekends every summer from Friday to Sunday at typically 9:00 am and 3:30 pm for almost 3 hours.
If you prefer to avoid crowds, it is recommended that you ride the train on Fridays (especially in the morning). If you prefer Saturday and Sunday rides, it should be noted that the less expensive tickets sell out almost immediately to the public. In recent years, you can typically find single tickets up until the day of the event.
You should arrive 30 minutes to 1 hour before your train ride to guarantee parking and enjoy the whole Steam in the Valley experience.
It should also be noted that tickets begin several months in advance, and typically, members get first access. For a small Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad membership fee of $75, you can access tickets early. Tickets range in price from $30 – $70, depending on the car you choose.
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Steam in the Valley Guide
To begin your Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad Steam in the Valley, you will want to arrive at the Independence (Lock 39 Trailhead) parking lot at Rockside Road 30 minutes to 1 hour before the start of your ride.
Feel free to wear any comfortable clothes, and I may even recommend a sweater as the train can get cold. You can then take your time, walk around, and even venture to the Towpath Trail.
You will then check in at the first tent you see. This is also where you can buy souvenirs and concession items. While you wait for the train, enjoy the beautiful park around you, the “old time” band, the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic train, and so much more!
Once the train arrives, you and your family will notice the excitement building. Follow the volunteers as they assist you on the train. As you enter your assigned seat, you will want to make sure to get ready for an experience of a lifetime.
As the train leaves the depot for your 3-hour tour, you’ll get to listen to your train car’s volunteer educate you on the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, the train ride, and the famous locomotive pulling it. You can also get up and walk around and even visit their popular food and drink car. If you don’t want to buy what is on board, you can bring your own food and water, and don’t worry, as there are plenty of bathrooms on the train. One of our favorite experiences on the train is the acapella group that sings “old timey” tunes.
Within 30-40 minutes, you’ll pull into the Station Road Bridge Depot at Brecksville. This will be the most exciting part of the trip. At this time, you can get off the train to get an up close and personal experience of watching it go back and forth by you 3 times.
This is an unreal experience that takes you back in time, where you can feel the wind in your hair as the train whizzes by, see an unbelievable plume of smoke that was a daily sight for our ancestors, and experience the locomotive’s sheer power. This is your best chance to get a picture of video of the locomotive. This part of the experience lasts another 30 minutes, and the volunteers will quickly get you back on board for the rest of your experience.
From Brecksville, you will take the train through some of the most beautiful parts of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park and have a chance to view wildlife, such as bald eagles, herons, deer, and maybe the elusive coyote. You’ll also see the Cuyahoga River and a few backcountry bonds.
You’ll reach the halfway point at Indigo Lake and then head back to the Rockside Road (final) destination. It should be noted that the train will not stop or do any more run-bys.
Before you know it, you’ll arrive back in Independence, where you’ll exit the train. This provides you with one last opportunity to view the train, buy souvenirs, or just enjoy a little more time at the depot.
How to Get There
The easiest way to the train depot is to put Lock 39 Trailhead (3000 Rockside Road, Independence, Ohio 44131) into your GPS.
Driving Directions:
The easiest way to get to the train depot is east or west on Rockside Road. Once you arrive in Independence, you want to take a left or right at the Lock 39 Trailhead.
Expert Tips
If you want to have the best experience, take advantage of these tips:
- Arrive early. The train ride typically sells out, and parking spaces are limited. The Scenic Railroad team recommends arriving 30 minutes early, but I recommend 45 minutes to an hour to ensure you get a parking spot.
- For the most enjoyable experience, buy tickets for a train ride during the morning or afternoon ride on Friday. Tickets for December sell out immediately and are usually much more crowded on the train.
- Get off the train during the “run”. As enjoyable as the ride is, being able to get off and watch the train fly by with its steam puffing in the air is an experience you’ll never forget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Bring a camera, a snack, water, and comfortable clothes as you’ll be on the trail for almost 3 hours!
Tickets typically go on sale to the public several months in advance, with pre-sale to Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad members first. This ride typically sells out incredibly fast.
Tickets generally cost $30 – $70 per person.
Expect a gift shop, the train mascot, and an old-time band before the train ride begins. During your journey, you can expect an acapella group, the food/beverage cart, and the ability to get off the train and watch it do its “runs”.
Everyone! This is the perfect adventure for families with children of all ages!
Learn more about the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
Not only is the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad’s Steam in the Valley an excellent activity for all, but numerous other train ride excursions exist. The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad homepage will give you all the information on rides, schedules, and more!
Take Away
The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad’s Steam in the Valley in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a fantastic experience for children and adults who love trains, steam engines, or just want a unique experience in Ohio’s National Park. Knowing about this train ride will make this an adventure you will not forget.
