A hub for summer activity in CVNP.

The word “meadow” conjures images of a lush green field full of flowers, but Cuyahoga Valley National Park’s Howe Meadow is often full of people. Like a high school multipurpose room that serves as a cafeteria, a gymnasium, and a choir concert venue, Howe Meadow hosts a farmers’ market, yoga classes, horseback-riding events, and free concerts. Since it sits less than half a mile from man-made Indigo Lake, a popular fishing and bird-watching spot, and less than two miles from the historic Everett Covered Bridge and several trails, Howe Meadow is the perfect spot to begin or end your day in the park.

What Makes It Great

The Countryside Farmers’ Market at Howe Meadow, the first farmer’s market in a national park, supports local farmers and friendly vendors who sell organic fruits and vegetables, grass-fed beef, cage-free eggs and poultry, artisan cheeses, homemade honey, baked goods, and dog treats. And, they also share recipes, provide tips on how to prepare meat and produce, hold cooking demos and tastings, and give gardening advice.

For the last six years, yogis have flocked to CVNP to celebrate the summer solstice with 108 sun salutations all afternoon and evening. Since 2013, this event has taken place at Howe Meadow. This free festival also features art, food, and family-friendly activities.

Hikers who need to work out a few kinks can head to Howe Meadow for free yoga classes offered by the park.

The Conservancy, in partnership with the National Park Service, hosts free concerts in the meadow every summer on Wednesdays, featuring blues, jazz, Celtic, African drums, and more. The music is always preceded by family activities. Concert goers are encouraged to pack a picnic to enjoy!

Who’s Going to Love It

The Countryside Farmers’ Market at Howe Meadow will appeal to healthy eaters in search of humanely raised meat and non-GMO goodness. Situated less than a mile and a half from several dog-friendly hiking trails, it also gives hikers a place to pick up a nutritious treat to take along on their trek. Yoga enthusiasts and first-timers will love stretching out on the grass instead of the studio floor. Concert-goers who typically pack a picnic basket and head to Blossom can take a detour one night and avoid the cost of orchestra tickets and service fees.

Directions, Trailheads, and Regulations

CVNP is open year-round, 24 hours a day, and does not charge a fee. Visitors may bring dogs as long as they are on a six-foot leash. Please note, while this is a pup-friendly park, only service dogs are permitted at the farmer’s market.