Furnace Run Trail Hike Overview
- Length: 1.8 miles (3.21 km) round-trip
- Hiking Time: 45 minutes
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 246 feet
- Route: Loop
- Best Season: Summer. When foliage is complete and the river is flowing
- Pets Allowed: Yes (leashed)
- Kid-Friendly: Yes, for those who can hike a hilly trail.
- Wheelchair Accessible: No
- Finding the Trailhead: Located at the Everett Covered Bridge Trailhead. 2370 Everett Road, Peninsula, Ohio 44264
Furnace Run Trail Guide
Furnace Trail (Cuyahoga Valley National Park)
The Furnace Run Trail is a 1.8-mile loop that starts at the famous Everett Covered Bridge Trailhead and follows the Cuyahoga River.
To begin, pull into the large parking lot (where there is a bathroom and park information sign) at the Everett Covered Bridge and follow the limestone trail for 100 feet before getting to the (red) Everett Covered Bridge.
You will then take a sharp right onto the single-track trail, passing through a diverse forest of maple trees, pine trees, small brush, and ground cover. As you pass through this mystical area, keep your eye on the river to your left, where loons and other birds frequent the area.
You will soon come up on a street that you will cross. Take caution, as this is a heavily trafficked area where cars pass by at high speeds.
As you cross the street, you will enter a beautiful pine forest, where you may spot deer, coyotes, and other non-predatory mammals if you hike at dawn and dusk. You will walk a windy trail, crossing over a small wooden-covered bridge before continuing up a slight hill and then back down to the left.
You will then reach a crossroads where you can take a shortcut for a quicker hike (not recommended) or take a left to continue the loop. You will walk for another two minutes before you can continue following the loop or take a quick left to experience the Cuyahoga River furnace run section. This is a fast pull-off and an excellent spot to watch wildlife, fish, or play in the water.
When completed, head back to the loop. You will continue following the path left before it steadily climbs for about 1/4 mile. It will soon bring you to another section where you can go left to connect to another trail or continue right on Furnace Run.
Continue where you will quickly descend the next 1/3 mile back down over steps and roots. You will reach the bottom intersection of the loop, heading back to your car the way you came.
You will pass back through the single-track section of the trail before reaching the Everett Covered Bridge and the limestone trail that leads back to your car. Before finishing the hike, it is recommended that you take some time to learn about the park’s history and the numerous signs by the bridge. During the summer and early fall, this is also a great time to enjoy a picnic or frolic in the water below.
Alternative Option
If you want a longer and more remote hike similar to the one on the Old Carriage Trail, it is recommended that you try it.
The benefits of this hike are that you get the following:
- It’s a similar hike to Furnace Run but longer with more hills for those who want a challenge.
- It is a more remote hike for those who want to spend more time in the backcountry away from people.
- More wildlife. You have a better chance to see more wildlife during the entire day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can bring leashed dogs on the trail at any time of the year
You can hike on this trail any time of the year. However, the summer is the best time when wildlife is abundant and the river flows.
Yes, this is a moderate hike for kids of all ages. They will love the authentic wilderness experience of this hike.
This relatively easy hike has over 245 feet of elevation gain and winding uphill climbs. It should only be done by those in moderate to good shape who can complete uphill hiking.
Yes, trail runners of all levels will love how hilly this trail is. It is one of the most popular trails for runners in Northeast Ohio.
No, this trail is not recommended for individuals with mobility challenges or physical disabilities.
Deer, squirrels, chipmunks, and rabbits frequent this trail. On the trail, you may also see red-tail hawks, owls, coyotes, and the occasional fox. None of these animals pose a risk to hikers.
It would be best to park at the Everett Covered Bridge parking lot.
Yes, the Furnace Run Trail is marked. Follow the signs to avoid adding miles to your trip, or you can take a shorter version of the hike.
No, you can hike this trail at any day or hour. However, it is recommended not to hike it at night.
This trail is not very crowded, especially in the spring and winter. Expect just a few people on the trail during summer and fall weekends at most.
Carrying a phone, backpack, water, hiking boots, or shoes is always recommended, and a light snack. In the summer, carrying 2 liters of water is recommended when it is hot and humid due to the altitude and heat.
Furnace Run Trail Map
Directions
The easiest way to get to the Furnace Run Trail is to input the Everett Covered Bridge (2370 Everett Road, Peninsula, Ohio 44264) into your phone and GPS, as the trail starts here.
Driving Directions:
- When driving to the Everett Covered Bridge Parking Lot (Furnace Run Trailhead), you will come either east or west on Everett Road, depending on whether you are coming from Akron or Cleveland. Once you turn into the parking lot, feel free to park in any spot that is not a handicap spot.
Learn More About Cuyahoga Valley National Park Hikes
While the Furnace Run Trail is one of the most beautiful and peaceful hikes in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, numerous fulfilling hikes can be enjoyed during the day or on a long weekend. Check out some of my other favorite hikes below.
- Buttermilk Falls Trail
- Blue Hen Falls Trail
- Towpath Trail
- Stanford Trail
- Brandywine Gorge Loop Trail
