很棒的公園
1 / 10

Summit Lake Park and Nature Center

4.6
·169 reviews·Akron, United States

Discover local nature and history at Summit Lake's revitalized park and educational Nature Center, with access to the scenic Towpath Trail.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Summer mornings

Ideal for wildlife viewing

CrowdLow
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很棒的公園

Summit Lake Park and Nature Center

Best Time

Spring & Summer mornings

Ideal for wildlife viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover local nature and history at Summit Lake's revitalized park and educational Nature Center, with access to the scenic Towpath Trail.

4.6
(169 reviews)

"A fantastic place to visit and learn about the Summit Lake area as well as the plants and animals that call this place home!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🥾 Wear comfortable shoes

Essential for exploring trails and the community garden.

🛶 Bring your kayak/raft

Enjoy a peaceful paddle on Summit Lake.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Summit Lake Nature Center

Summit Lake Nature Center

Former pump house along the Towpath

Discover local flora and fauna, learn about the area's history, and enjoy lake views from this inviting, educational hub.

Reddit
Towpath Trail Access

Towpath Trail Access

Adjacent to the Nature Center

Easily connect to this scenic bike path for a leisurely stroll or bike ride, offering peaceful city escapes.

Reddit
Community Garden

Community Garden

Outdoor area of the Nature Center

Explore a vibrant community garden and see remnants of the building's industrial past.

Reddit
Kayaking/Rafting on Summit Lake

Kayaking/Rafting on Summit Lake

Summit Lake

Enjoy a peaceful paddle on the lake, observing waterfowl and turtles in their natural habitat.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Summit Lake's Revitalization

Summit Lake Park is undergoing revitalization, aiming to improve the area and encourage community engagement. While the Nature Center and Towpath are welcome additions, be aware that the park is situated in a part of town that may show signs of urban challenges. Reddit

Best Footwear for Exploration

Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the trails around Summit Lake and the adjacent Towpath. Whether you're hiking, biking, or enjoying the community garden, good footwear will enhance your experience. TikTok

Best Times

When
Spring & Summer mornings
Why
Ideal for wildlife viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Less crowded, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Saturday mornings
Why
Community garden activities
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

There’s been OVERWHELMING interest in the refurbished scooters in Akron. Here’s today’s update. #electricscooter #spin #spinscooter #recycling #electric #ewasterecycling #tv #tvnewsreporter
@tessontv
47.5K likes • 680.7K views

🥾 Wear comfortable shoes

Essential for exploring trails and the community garden. TikTok

🛶 Bring your kayak/raft

Enjoy a peaceful paddle on Summit Lake. Reddit

The Rubber Bowl - Akron, Summit County OH #abandoned #stadium #football
@lstraubbruce
2.6K likes • 28.3K views
Summit Metro Parks 💚 #lake #motivation #mountains #waterfall #waterfallohio #akronohio #summitmetroparks #funthingstodoinakron #akronoh #akroncheck #dwrighttravels #kentstate #akronuniversity #akronpark #placestovisitinohio #exploreohio
@dwrighttravels
2.2K likes • 80.7K views

🤝 Engage with staff

Friendly and informative about local wildlife. Reddit

🌳 Explore the garden

See the community garden and historical pumps. Reddit

reddit.com

Opinions on the revitalization plan for Summit Lake?

Tips

from all over the internet

🥾 Wear comfortable shoes

Essential for exploring trails and the community garden. TikTok

🛶 Bring your kayak/raft

Enjoy a peaceful paddle on Summit Lake. Reddit

🤝 Engage with staff

Friendly and informative about local wildlife. Reddit

🌳 Explore the garden

See the community garden and historical pumps. Reddit

🚲 Utilize the Towpath

Easy access for biking and walking. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(169 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Summit Lake Park and Nature Center is praised for its educational exhibits, friendly staff, and convenient access to the Towpath Trail. Visitors enjoy the peaceful atmosphere for kayaking and exploring the community garden. However, some reviewers express disappointment with the amount of trash visible in and around the lake, and the park's location in an area with visible urban challenges.

"I personally would not recommend taking your family here for a hike or to the nature center. We love the Summit County Metro Parks but this is one I would personally avoid unfortunately. We went here to kick off the fall hiking spree and we're very disappointed. The hike itself is on a trail along Summit lake and the towpath. The nature center and the park itself is located in a shady part of town. You drive through neighborhoods where there's trash all over the streets just to get here. Summit lake itself is filled with trash which makes it sad, especially seeing waterfowl, turtles and such swimming among the trash. Then the hiking spree takes you down the tow path and you walk past a bridge where homeless people are living underneath it. I know all of this stuff is a part of life unfortunately, and I'm not saying we should just black it out, but when you're taking your family for an enjoyable hike, I'd rather not see these things."

Ann J

"What a fantastic place to visit and learn about the Summit Lake area as well as the plants and animals that call this place home!
The building was a former pump house owned by the City of Akron. They donated the building to the Summit County Metroparks and they have done a fantastic job of converting a building that an eyesore along the towpath to a place that is inviting and educational.
Inside are exhibits of the plants an animals as well as information about the history of the building and the surrounding area (Formerly Summit Lake Park). Upstairs is a room that can be used for educational purposes and provides a great view of the lake and area.
Out side is a community garden and some exhibits of the pumps that used to be inside the building.
There is plenty of parking. But the building sits right next to the bike path. So you can easily enjoy the nature center while exploring the bike path.
Definitely worth a visit."

Michael Hillman

"This is a great nature center with friendly staff & the Towpath nearby. Parking lot is large, restrooms are clean & the outdoor garden is very cool."

JM Miller

What People Like

Educational Nature Center
Friendly & informative staff
Towpath Trail access

What People Dislike

Trash in the lake
Urban surroundings

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Summit Lake Park and Nature Center is located in Akron, Ohio. While it's accessible by car, some visitors note driving through neighborhoods with visible urban challenges to reach the park. Reddit Ample parking is available at the nature center. Reddit

Information on public transport routes to Summit Lake Park is limited. It's recommended to check local Akron transit schedules for the most up-to-date information. Driving is generally the most convenient option. Reddit

Visitors have noted that the drive to Summit Lake Park can take you through parts of town that show signs of urban neglect, with trash visible on streets. Reddit However, the park itself and the nature center are well-maintained. Reddit

Yes, Summit Lake Park is directly accessible from the Towpath Trail, making it a great destination for cyclists. Reddit

Yes, there is plenty of parking available at the Nature Center, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to Summit Lake Park and the Nature Center is generally free. It's a public park managed by Summit County Metro Parks. Reddit

Operating hours for the Summit Lake Nature Center can vary. It's best to check the official Summit County Metro Parks website or contact them directly for the most current hours of operation. Reddit

No, typically no advance booking is required for general visits to the Summit Lake Nature Center. It's open for public exploration. Reddit

The Nature Center often hosts educational programs and events. Check the Summit County Metro Parks event calendar for upcoming activities. Reddit

Summit Lake Park is generally open year-round, though specific facilities like the Nature Center will have set operating hours. The trails are accessible even when the center is closed. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can visit the Nature Center to learn about local wildlife and history, explore the community garden, walk or bike the Towpath Trail, and even kayak or raft on Summit Lake. Reddit+1

Visitors can spot waterfowl, turtles, and various other local animals in and around Summit Lake. Reddit+1 The Nature Center provides exhibits on these creatures. Reddit

Yes, clean restrooms are available at the Nature Center, which is a convenient amenity for visitors. Reddit

Some visitors have noted that Summit Lake can contain trash, which is unfortunate given the presence of wildlife. Reddit However, others have enjoyed kayaking and rafting, finding the experience peaceful. Reddit

The Nature Center is housed in a former pump house owned by the City of Akron. It has been beautifully converted by Summit County Metro Parks into an inviting and educational space. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Nature Center offers great views of the lake and surrounding area from its upstairs room. Reddit The Towpath Trail provides scenic backdrops, and the community garden offers colorful subjects. Reddit

Yes, Summit Lake is home to various wildlife like waterfowl and turtles, offering opportunities for nature photography. Reddit+1 Remember to maintain a respectful distance. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed in Summit Lake Park. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits. Always check park regulations if unsure. TikTok

Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best natural light for photography, especially for capturing wildlife and scenic views of the lake. TikTok

Yes, the community garden is a visually appealing area and is open for visitors to photograph. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Summit Lake Park and Nature Center can be a good outing for families, offering educational opportunities and outdoor activities. The Nature Center itself is engaging for children, with exhibits on local animals and plants. Reddit The community garden also provides a visual interest. Reddit

While the park offers a chance to see wildlife like waterfowl and turtles, some visitors have noted concerns about trash in the lake. Reddit Parents might want to manage expectations regarding the pristine nature of the surroundings. However, the friendly staff and the accessible Towpath Trail for a walk or bike ride make it a worthwhile visit for families looking for a local nature experience. Reddit+1

🚴‍♀️ Cyclists and Hikers

For cyclists and hikers, Summit Lake Park is a prime location due to its direct access to the Towpath Trail. This well-maintained trail offers miles of scenic riding and walking, connecting you to other parts of the Metro Parks system. Reddit

The Nature Center serves as a convenient stop along the trail for a break, to use the restrooms, or to learn more about the local environment. Reddit The park itself offers trails around the lake, providing a pleasant route for a leisurely walk or a more vigorous hike. TikTok

🌿 Nature Enthusiasts

Nature lovers will appreciate the Summit Lake Nature Center's focus on local flora and fauna. The exhibits provide a solid introduction to the species that inhabit the area, and the lake itself is a habitat for waterfowl and turtles. Reddit+1

Taking a kayak or raft out on the lake offers a unique perspective for observing wildlife in its natural setting. Reddit The community garden also adds to the natural appeal, showcasing local plant life. Reddit The knowledgeable and friendly staff at the Nature Center are a great resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the local ecosystem. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Revitalization of Summit Lake

Summit Lake Park and its Nature Center are part of a larger revitalization effort for the Summit Lake area. This initiative aims to transform a historically neglected part of Akron into a more engaging and accessible community space. The addition of the Nature Center and the improved access to the Towpath Trail are key components of this plan, designed to draw more people to the area and foster a sense of community. Reddit

While the revitalization is ongoing, visitors should be aware of the park's urban setting. Some reviews mention driving through areas with visible signs of urban challenges. Reddit However, the park itself and the Nature Center are highlighted as positive developments, turning an 'eyesore' into an 'inviting and educational' space. Reddit The goal is to create a welcoming environment for all residents and visitors to enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Reddit

Exploring the Summit Lake Nature Center

The Summit Lake Nature Center is a gem located in a former pump house, expertly transformed by Summit County Metro Parks. Inside, you'll find engaging exhibits detailing the local plants and animals, as well as the history of the building and the surrounding area. Reddit The upstairs area offers educational spaces and provides a fantastic vantage point for viewing the lake and its surroundings. Reddit

Beyond the indoor exhibits, the center boasts a community garden and outdoor displays showcasing the original pumps from the building's past. Reddit The staff are consistently praised for being friendly, informative, and eager to share their knowledge about the local wildlife and the park's initiatives. Reddit This makes the Nature Center a highly recommended stop for anyone interested in learning about the local ecosystem and history. Reddit+1

Recreational Activities on Summit Lake

Summit Lake offers a surprisingly peaceful escape within the city, perfect for those looking to get on the water. Visitors have successfully used inflatable kayaks and rafts to explore the lake, finding it a serene experience that momentarily makes you forget you're in an urban environment. Reddit

While paddling, you can observe the local wildlife, including various waterfowl and turtles. Reddit+1 The Nature Center staff are knowledgeable about the wildlife and can offer insights into what you might see. Reddit Despite some mentions of trash in the lake, many find the experience of being on the water to be quite enjoyable and a great way to connect with nature. Reddit+1

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