Date Night: Hike To Brandywine Falls

Relationships are rarely a walk in the park. But the Brandywine Gorge trail may set the perfect pace for a romantic trek. The 1.5-mile loop through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park winds through a forest of hemlocks, maple and oak trees teeming with squirrels, deer, rabbits and more. But the main attraction is Brandywine Falls. Water flows over the thinly chunked shale and sandstone cliff and drops 60 feet to the creek below, giving it an airy appearance that resembles the veil of a bride. “The way the water cascades down is stunning,” says Pamela Barnes, community engagement supervisor for Cuyahoga Valley National Park. “The sound of moving water puts us at ease, so you can relax with your date.” Barnes suggests stopping on the lower boardwalk for a scenic selfie with the falls in the background. Then, head to the upper boardwalk for more views. 8176 Brandywine Road, Sagamore Hills, 330-657-2752, nps.gov   Before: Fuel up for your hike with Bloom Bakery’s all-natural granola bars that mix oats, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, apricot and honey. 200 Public Square, Cleveland, 216-261-1111, bloombakery.com #Active #Inexpensive