Whether you like a long flat trail or one with hills for a challenge, there are many places where you can go running in Akron. The area boasts everything from easy walking paths to long biking trails where you get some exercise or even train for a race. Here are some of the best running trails in Akron.

Ohio to Erie Trail 

The Ohio to Erie Trail offers a combination of asphalt, concrete, and crushed stone with some dirt sections mixed in. This trail goes for almost 300 miles,  but you can just use the section closest to you or choose a portion that you like. It starts at Lake Erie in Cleveland and goes all the way to the Ohio River in Cincinnati with sections in all four of Ohio’s most populated cities. The trail uses a former railroad corridor, canal towpath, and some greenways created just for the trail.

Towpath Trail

The Towpath Trail is part of the Ohio to Erie Trail. It is a well-maintained section of the trail with easy access. You can park by Red Rock or by the Boston Store to get access to the trail, and it has connections to several of the Metro Parks and the Bike and Hike Trail so you can stop along the way or use the Towpath Trail as your road to these other places.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm

The F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm on Smith Road in Akron is a beautiful place to go for a run. There are lots of birds to see along the way with many different trails to run along. There is plenty of parking available, and there are bathrooms to use near the visitors center.

Sand Run Metro Park

Sand Run Metro Park is great for runners. The main path is well maintained and paved, and several dirt paths go off from the main trail for variety. There are some challenging hills for those who want to work on their strength and endurance, and this park also has some easier trails if you just want to get some exercise. You can run the main trail for a six-mile run, or you can take one of the smaller trails that go off from the main trail to extend your run. There are public restrooms and picnic areas at this park as well.

Summit Metro Parks

Summit Metro Parks on Treaty Line Road in Akron has a 1-mile path and a 2-mile path. This is a great place to run if you want to practice your off-road running and trail running. The trails are wide making it easier to run with someone, and there are some good hills if you want to work on your strength. This park has several parking areas with plenty of spaces, and there are public restrooms and a concession stand.

These are just a few of the many running trails in the Akron area. Whether you need a challenging trail so you can train for your next marathon, or you just want to get out for some exercise, there is something for everyone.