Cascade Valley Metro Park

Park Overview

Nestled between Akron and Cuyahoga Falls in central Summit County, Cascade Valley Metro Park spans a generous 526 acres of natural beauty. The Oxbow Area is just one piece of this larger green puzzle, hugging the curves of the Cuyahoga River. It's an ideal spot to escape the daily grind, whether you're planning a family day out, hitting the trails, or simply wanting to sit by the river and watch the world flow by.

Trails and Hiking

The Oxbow Area boasts a 1.2-mile trail of moderate difficulty that meanders through the floodplain before climbing up the valley sides. The trek offers nice views of the river valley below. Wooden steps help with the steeper sections of the trail. The Overlook area provides excellent views of the Cuyahoga River.

As you hike, keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife and seasonal wildflowers that dot the landscape in spring and summer. The abundant tree cover provides welcome shade, making this a comfortable hike even when the sun is beating down. Most folks complete the loop in about 30-40 minutes at a leisurely pace.

Just a heads-up: parts of the trail can get a bit muddy after rain, and some of the stepped sections occasionally show signs of wear and tear.

Natural Features

The park's name comes from the distinctive oxbow bend in the Cuyahoga River, which you can spot from certain lookout points. The landscape is a pleasing mix of dense woods and open meadows.

You can access the river from several spots along the trail, offering peaceful little nooks to pause and reflect. If you're an early bird, you might be rewarded with the dawn chorus of local birds and, if you're lucky, impressive gatherings of swallows swooping over the oxbow itself.

Recreational Facilities

Feel like getting active? The Oxbow Area has several sports fields available on a first-come basis for casual games. When winter blankets the park in snow, the popular sledding hill becomes the place to be, with options for both beginners and more adventurous sledders.

The park features several picnic areas complete with tables, benches, and grills - particularly in spots near the river. These make ideal settings for family get-togethers or a simple lunch outdoors. Public restrooms are conveniently located near the ballfields and remain open throughout park hours.

There's also a paddling access point for those wanting to experience the river from a different perspective - though it's best suited for experienced paddlers due to the river conditions.

Conservation Significance

As part of the broader Cascade Valley Metro Park, the Oxbow Area plays an important role in preserving the Cuyahoga River ecosystem while providing much-needed green space for Akron residents and neighboring communities.

Dog-Friendly Features

Your four-legged friends are welcome here! The park is dog-friendly, and you'll come across pet waste bags provided along the Oxbow Trail to help keep the paths clean and enjoyable for everyone who visits.