The Cuyahoga River wanders for almost 90 miles around northeast Ohio, ending up (in a straight line) less than 20 from where it starts. While mostly known for it’s industrial portion in Cleveland, much of the path it is a small wild river.
The town of Cuyahoga Falls, near Akron, is the site of a waterfalls (hence the name) that had been rendered non existent for 100 years from dams. Those dams were recently removed, returning the river to it’s natural state, including an impressive waterfalls.
For the second year this portion of the river featured kayak racing. A Sheraton Hotel is situated at the falls, and the view from the balconies of the falls and action was spectacular.
The entire event seemed well organized, with safety being foremost. The local fire department rescue team provided support, as well as the race organizations staff.
The kayakers had a series of white water rapids to run through before going over a couple of fairly large (possibly 10′ high) waterfalls.
Many of them flipped during this portion, but nearly everyone was able to flip themselves back over.
This is a great event, and really showcases the river nicely, as well as the city of Cuyahoga Falls.
We are looking forward to returning in 2018.
