Goodyear Heights Metro Park

History and Establishment

Back in 1930, this green haven came to life thanks to land donated by the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company and purchased from a local resident named Gilbert Waltz. It's now a proud member of the Summit Metro Parks family, part of a network of natural spaces throughout Summit County.

During World War II, the park took on a practical role, hosting Victory Gardens along Newton Street. Fast forward to today, and it's where locals come to hit the trails, spread out picnic blankets, and reconnect with nature.

Natural Features

Spanning 410 acres, this natural retreat offers a bit of everything: lush woodlands, breezy meadows, and a serene cattail marsh. The park's sandy, acidic soil creates a fantastic home for some distinctive plants - you'll spot sassafras, sarsaparilla, and yellow birch trees dotting the landscape.

Alder Pond and its surrounding wetlands create a thriving ecosystem where waterfowl glide across the water while turtles and muskrats go about their day. If you're lucky (and quiet), you might catch glimpses of deer, especially along the fall trails when they're most active. Come spring, the floodplain woods transform with wildflowers - white trillium and wild ginger create natural carpets of color worth seeking out.

Trails and Activities

The well-maintained trails here offer something for everyone. If you're looking to break a sweat, the Parcours Trail is your go-to - this 1.8-mile loop features 20 exercise stations along the way. While trail markers are generally reliable, you might want to have a trail app handy for some sections.

The Alder Trail stretches 1.4 miles and leads to a boardwalk through a cattail marsh. Part of this trail is accessible for those using wheelchairs, walkers, or canes - a thoughtful touch. For pond views and picturesque scenery, the Pioneer Trail delivers beautifully. You'll come across benches strategically placed throughout, well-suited for catching your breath or simply soaking in the surroundings.

Winter Activities

When snow blankets the ground, the park transforms into a winter playground, featuring what many locals consider Akron's best sledding hill. During sledding season, you'll often find a fire pit burning nearby - a welcome spot to warm chilly fingers and toes. The hill is generously sized with plenty of room for everyone, however it's worth noting that some visitors have mentioned fencing at the bottom would make it even safer.

Facilities and Amenities

The park's lodge can be reserved for gatherings and offers lovely views of the surrounding nature. Clean restrooms are available throughout the park during regular hours - always a practical consideration for longer visits.

You'll find numerous picnic spots with tables and built-in charcoal grills scattered around, many thoughtfully positioned under shade trees. Need some open space? Several fields provide room for impromptu games, kite flying, or just lounging on a blanket. There's also a baseball field and a cement pad that acts as a flexible recreation space.

Pet-Friendly Features

Dog owners, take note - this park is fantastic for your four-legged friends, offering both wooded paths and grassy expanses for walks. Just remember that dogs need to stay leashed at all times, and you should clean up after your pet. Many regulars have made this park their go-to spot for daily dog walks, appreciating the varied terrain and peaceful atmosphere.