shenandoah vs cuyahoga: which park for a 3-day getaway?
So, here’s the deal: My partner and I are itching to get out of the house for a 3-day weekend in May, and we’ve narrowed it down to Shenandoah or Cuyahoga National Park. Both are about the same drive from us, so distance isn’t really a factor. We love hiking (though my knees sometimes complain on the way down), and we’re hoping to catch some beautiful waterfalls—something to make us forget the endless yard work waiting at home!
Here’s where I’m stuck: Shenandoah looks stunning in photos, with those rolling mountains and all, but I’ve heard it can get pretty crowded, especially on weekends. Cuyahoga, on the other hand, seems a bit more low-key, but I’m worried it might not have the same ‘wow’ factor. Plus, I don’t want to spend half the trip waiting in line for a parking spot or dodging crowds on the trails.
Has anyone done both parks around this time of year? Did you find one was better for peaceful hikes and actually spotting waterfalls (not just a trickle)? And, honestly, which park has the better food options nearby? Last time we tried a new spot, we ended up driving 20 minutes for a breakfast sandwich that was just…meh.
Would love to hear your real experiences—especially if you’ve got tips for avoiding the crowds or hidden gems for lunch!
#nationalparks #shenandoah #cuyahoga #hiking #waterfalls #Travel
