It would take weeks to explore every nook of this beautiful park, with its dense desciduous forest, boggy lowlands, sunny meadows, rocky riverbanks and broad, breathtaking Cuyahoga River Valley views. We got just a taste of it all as we spent the day poking around in a few spots. Aunt Mary Ann, bless her heart, joined us, and we were so glad to have her along. She's a great sport with the kids, and they adore her.
First up was a short hike on the old Ohio-Erie Canal towpath, which is now a main thoroughfare for cyclists who cruise through the park. We quickly realized that walking along that trail with three young children is like being in a game of Frogger, and turned around almost immediately.
In search of a path with a slower pace, we ventured to an area called "The Ledges," featuring giant boulders and rock formations -- for a quick hike down to Ice Box Cave, where, on this 90-degree day, the temperature was a pleasant 60-ish. Although the cave has a relatively wide opening, it quickly narrows to a point where it seems impassible. But we heard voices from deeper inside the cave, and Natalie, caught up in the spirit of adventure, was determined to go farther. She pulled Keith along with her. As she got a little further in, she exclaimed that it smelled funny in there, and as the odor wafted back to Keith, he quickly yanked her back out, realizing that the voices and the smell were coming from three college guys smoking pot-- just what you want to discover on your family's national park excursion.
Later that afternoon, we spent time completing the requisite Junior Ranger activities and then finding a Visitor Center that would bestow the newly earned JR badges to our children before hitting the semi-impressive Brandywine Falls on our way out of the park.
Keith and I agreed that the park was not as organized as others we've visited, and that may be due to its relatively new status as a national park. The towns and roads have been there for generations, and the park has grown up around them. But the national park buildings and landmarks are not yet clearly marked, and the maps and other materials were not as helpful as they could have been.
For dinner tonight, Mary Ann took us to the Pine Lake Trout Club, one of my favorite spots, a rustic little lodge set on a gurgling trout stream in, I swear, an enchanted glen -- just outside of Chagrin Falls and a million miles away from anywhere. The kids roamed the grounds while Mary Ann, Keith and I relaxed with drinks on the patio.
After dinner, we went into downtown Chagrin Falls for ice cream cones and people-watching next to the falls.
We are so grateful to Aunt Mary Ann for hosting us this weekend. We've had a wonderful time catching up and spending time with her. Her huge heart and upbeat attitude make her one of our favorite people. Hugs, Mary Ann! Thanks for everything!
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