Stanford Trail Hike Overview
- Length: 3 miles (5 km) round-trip
- Hiking Time: 1.5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 586 feet
- Route: Out-And-Back
- Best Season: Fall. Late spring when the ground has hardened, and the mosquitoes and ticks aren’t out yet.
- Pets Allowed: Yes (leashed)
- Kid-Friendly: Yes, for those who can hike a hilly trail.
- Wheelchair Accessible: No
- Finding the Trailhead: Located at the Stanford House. 6093 Stanford Road, Peninsula, Ohio 44264
Stanford Trail Guide
Stanford Trail (Cuyahoga Valley National Park)
The Stanford Trail is a 3 mile out-and-back hike that starts at the Stanford House, about half a mile from the Cuyahoga Valley National Park Visitor Center (Boston Mills Visitor Center).
To begin the trail, pull into the gravel road at the Stanford House and park behind the large brown barn. Then, walk onto the trail (located right next to the remnants of old stone storage) and through a straight, narrow path surrounded by tall grass for a hundred feet. Make sure to check yourself for ticks from late spring through late fall.
You will then cross a small footbridge onto a dirt trail. You’ll start by gently going uphill, which quickly turns into a steep ascent for about 1/4 mile before leveling off. Once you reach the top, take a quick break before continuing on the flat, winding trail for another 1/4 mile.
You will then approach an intersection where you can take a right to Brandywine Falls. If you would like a quick 5-minute detour continue straight to Averill Pond. This is the perfect place to hear spring peepers and other frogs during early spring or see ducks swimming anytime.
When taking a right at the Stanford Trail sign, you’ll go down approximately a dozen wide stairs before getting to the bottom of the valley. Take your time, as these steps can be muddy and slick. When you reach the bottom, you’ll follow the trail for another minute or two before crossing over another long footbridge.
You’ll continue on the path for another 100 feet before you reach another intersection. Continue following the Stanford Trail (towards Brandywine Falls) up a set of about a dozen wide stairs again, followed by another steep ascent before the dirt trail turns into cement.
You’ll quickly reach the third intersection, where you’ll take an immediate right for about 50 feet before approaching a boardwalk on the left-hand side that will take you to the Brandywine Falls overlook.
This is one of the most scenic portions of the trail, where you’ll see beautiful rock formations to your right, as well as the magnificent Brandywine Creek that has cut a hole through the valley. This area is also the most congested part of the trail and can be slick after rain or with ice during the winter.
You’ll finally finish the out portion of your out-and-back at the crown jewel of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Brandywine Falls. Take time for a photoshoot, rest your weary legs on one of the benches, and marvel at the beautiful falls. Once you are ready, you can head back the way you came.
Alternative Option
If you want a more scenic hike with two backcountry waterfalls, check out the Blue Hen Falls Trail and Buttermilk Falls Trail.
The benefits of visiting these two falls are as follows:
- Beautiful backcountry waterfalls that are magnificent any time of year, especially in winter when they freeze.
- Less crowded hikes where you have a greater chance of seeing wildlife, including coyotes and foxes.
- It’s easier to get to. It is much easier to find the parking lot than Stanford Trail and you can’t get lost on the trail, it is one trail that takes you out and back versuses the Stanford Trail that can go several directions.
Frequently Asked Questions
This moderate hike has numerous steep uphills and stairs. It should only be done by those in good shape who can complete uphill hiking.
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, mornings are the best time to visit during the peak seasons of summer and fall. During winter and spring, you can avoid crowds at any time except on the weekends.
Yes, this is a moderate hike for teenagers 12 and up. They will love the waterfall, the streams to play in, and the different plants and animals they may experience.
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.
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.
Yes, the Blue Hen Falls Trail is clearly marked. Follow the signs to avoid adding miles to your trip.
No, this trail is not recommended for individuals with mobility challenges or physical disabilities.
No, you can hike this trail any day and any hour. Brandywine Falls does close at dusk.
This is one of the most popular trails in the park and one of the most crowded locations. While you should have no problem getting a parking spot, please note that you will likely see other hikers, and once you reach Brandywine Falls, it is typically very crowded.
Carrying a phone, backpack, water, hiking boots, or shoes, as well as a light snack, is always recommended. In the summer, carrying 2 liters of water is recommended when it is hot and humid due to the altitude and heat.
You should park behind the brown barn at the Stanford House.
Stanford Trail Map
Directions
The easiest way to the Stanford Trail is to input the Stanford House (6093 Stanford Road Peninsula, Ohio 44264) into your phone and GPS, as the trail starts here.
Driving Directions:
- When driving to the Stanford Trail parking lot (Stanford House), you will start by driving either north or south on Riverview or west on W Hines Hill Road. If arriving from Riverview Road, you will take a right (if coming from the south) or left (if coming from the north) onto Boston Mills Road and then a left onto Stanford Road until you see Stanford House on your right. If arriving from W Hines Hill Road, take a right onto Stanford Road and follow it until you reach the Stanford House on your right.
Learn More About Cuyahoga Valley National Park Hikes
While the Stanford Trail is one of the least crowded and most unknown trails in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, numerous fulfilling hikes can be enjoyed during the day or long weekend. Check out some of my other favorite hikes below.
