Goodyear Heights Metro Park

History and Establishment

Established in 1930, the park was created on land donated by the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company and purchased from local resident Gilbert Waltz. It is part of the Summit Metro Parks system, which manages several parks in Summit County.

During World War II, the park was home to Victory Gardens along Newton Street. Today, it serves as a popular destination for hiking, picnicking, and nature observation.

Natural Features

This 410-acre natural area features diverse landscapes, including dense woodlands, open meadows, and a cattail marsh. Its sandy, acidic soils support unique plant species such as sassafras, sarsaparilla, and yellow birch trees.

The park's Alder Pond and surrounding wetlands provide habitat for various wildlife, including waterfowl, turtles, and muskrats. In spring, visitors can enjoy a display of wildflowers, including white trillium and wild ginger in the floodplain woods.

Trails and Activities

Goodyear Heights Metro Park offers several trails for visitors to explore. The Parcours Trail, a 1.8-mile loop, includes 20 exercise stations for those seeking a more active experience.

The Alder Trail leads to a boardwalk through a cattail marsh, with a portion of the trail accessible to visitors using wheelchairs, walkers, or canes. In winter, sledding is a popular pastime in the park.

Facilities

The park includes a lodge that can be rented for events, offering views of the surrounding natural areas.