Hampton Hills Metropark

Natural Features

Situated in Akron, Hampton Hills Metropark spans 665 acres of land shaped by ancient glacial activity. The park's distinctive landscape - with its steep ravines, meandering streams, and wooded hillsides - tells the story of the last ice age.

Towering oaks, elms, sycamores, and black walnuts create a natural canopy throughout the park, providing homes for diverse wildlife. Look up and you might catch woodcocks performing their spiral sky dance, wild turkeys strutting through clearings, or red-tailed hawks gliding effortlessly above the meadows.

In spring, the forest floor transforms with colorful wildflowers, while various mushrooms and ferns add to the park's natural tapestry year-round. Even the main parking area acts as a prime birdwatching spot, and you'll likely encounter the park's abundant chipmunk population scurrying about during your visit.

Hiking Trails

If you're looking for a genuine hiking challenge within the Summit Metro Parks system, Hampton Hills offers some great options. The 3.2-mile Adam Run Trail and 1.6-mile Spring Hollow Trail connect to form a figure-eight path that will take you through dramatic ravines and across bubbling streams.

These trails showcase the park's ice-age heritage with notable ups and downs. While officially labeled as difficult, most hikers find them moderately challenging with satisfying elevation changes that keep things interesting.

Be prepared for natural terrain featuring rocks and roots - especially after rain when the soil gets soggy. You'll encounter several stream crossings along the way, and since not all have bridges, sturdy footwear is a must for those hop-scotching moments across stones.

Top O' the World Area

The aptly named Top O' the World section offers open fields and meadows bursting with native plants. Here you can find colorful displays of milkwort, ironweed, Queen Anne's lace, goldenrods and asters depending on the season.

This area, once home to the Adams family homestead, has transformed into a haven for butterflies and birds that thrive in the meadow ecosystem.

Mountain Biking

For those who prefer exploring on two wheels, Hampton Hills features approximately 7 miles of mountain biking trails designed with varying skill levels in mind, from first-timers to experienced riders.

Don't forget your helmet - it's required for all cyclists on these bike-only trails. The singletrack routes receive particular praise from mountain bikers, as does the stunning wildflower meadow that provides a scenic backdrop rarely found on other Northeast Ohio biking trails.

Recreational Opportunities

Beyond hiking and biking, Hampton Hills offers spaces for picnicking and quiet nature observation amidst its diverse ecological settings.

The park also boasts a free archery range that consistently impresses visitors. Dog owners can bring their four-legged friends along to enjoy the trails, but remember that Ohio leash laws apply - your pup needs to stay leashed throughout your visit.

Facilities

Clean restrooms at the trailhead provide basic comfort for your outdoor adventure. If you're planning to fuel up before or after your exploration, you'll come across a few picnic tables near the park entrance.

Note that the trails feature natural, primitive terrain that isn't suitable for wheelchairs or strollers. And given the park's stream crossings and tendency to hold moisture after rainfall, waterproof footwear is your best bet for comfortable hiking - especially after recent precipitation.