Perkins Trail

Overview

This is Cuyahoga Valley’s sneaky workout: a wooded loop that starts at the photogenic Everett Covered Bridge, then wastes no time with short, steep climbs, muddy stretches, and a few rock‑hop creek crossings. Expect a true bridle‑trail feel—unpaved, uneven, and occasionally churned by horses. If you want hills and quiet woods more than big vistas, this one delivers.

Distance, elevation, and time

Plan on roughly 3.8 miles total with about 426 feet of elevation gain, taking most hikers 1.5–2 hours. Distances vary by map and where you start the loop, so think 3–4 miles for Perkins itself. Want more? Link Perkins with Riding Run for a ~5.1‑mile day and ~570 feet of gain.

What to expect on the trail

After you savor the covered bridge over Furnace Run, the tread turns hilly and technical: roots, rocks, pebbly slopes, and usually some mud. You’ll cross shallow, stone‑filled creeks, weave through tall hardwoods (oaks, beeches, hickories, hawthorns), and pass storm‑scarred “trail art” from a major 1996 blowdown—peeled stumps and mossy logs included. Portions brush past remnants of Old Everett Road before diving back into shaded forest and quiet ravines. It’s multi‑use: hikers, runners, and horses share the corridor—yield to equestrians.

Who will like it (and who won’t)

If you’re chasing a legit cardio bump with a forest‑bath vibe, this is a satisfying loop. It’s not about overlooks—think textures underfoot and sounds of water and woodpeckers. Mud and slick grades make it feel tougher than the mileage suggests. If you want big views or rock features, other CVNP routes will scratch that itch better.

Best time to hike

Year‑round is fair game. Spring through fall brings shade, flowing creeks, and a greener feel; summer can add bugs (bring repellent). After rain, mud goes from “present” to “featured”—great for soft knees, not great for white sneakers. Winter is peaceful but expect icy, slick slopes. Weekends can fill the parking; start early for space and quieter miles. Morning light is lovely around the bridge if you’re here for photos.

Tips

• Footwear: Waterproof, grippy shoes are worth their weight here; trekking poles help on muddy or pebbly steeps and creek hops.
• Etiquette: Don’t skirt mud—walk straight through to prevent trail widening. Yield to horses and announce yourself calmly.
• Navigation: Signage can be sparse early on; download a map or GPS track before you go.
• Extend or shorten: Add Riding Run for a longer, rolling loop, or bail early if conditions are swampy.

Logistics

Park at the Everett Covered Bridge trailhead; restrooms are typically available near the bridge. The park is open 24/7 and fee‑free. Dogs are allowed on a six‑foot leash.