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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal for wildlife viewing

Summit Lake Park and Nature Center
Best Time
Ideal for wildlife viewing

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

🥾 Wear comfortable shoes
Essential for exploring trails and the community garden.
🛶 Bring your kayak/raft
Enjoy a peaceful paddle on Summit Lake.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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.

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.

Community Garden
Outdoor area of the Nature Center
Explore a vibrant community garden and see remnants of the building's industrial past.

Kayaking/Rafting on Summit Lake
Summit Lake
Enjoy a peaceful paddle on the lake, observing waterfowl and turtles in their natural habitat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Summit Lake's Revitalization
Best Footwear for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear comfortable shoes
Essential for exploring trails and the community garden.
🛶 Bring your kayak/raft
Enjoy a peaceful paddle on Summit Lake.
🤝 Engage with staff
Friendly and informative about local wildlife.
🌳 Explore the garden
See the community garden and historical pumps.
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.
🛶 Bring your kayak/raft
Enjoy a peaceful paddle on Summit Lake.
🤝 Engage with staff
Friendly and informative about local wildlife.
🌳 Explore the garden
See the community garden and historical pumps.
🚲 Utilize the Towpath
Easy access for biking and walking.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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. Ample parking is available at the nature center.
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.
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. However, the park itself and the nature center are well-maintained.
Yes, Summit Lake Park is directly accessible from the Towpath Trail, making it a great destination for cyclists.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available at the Nature Center, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
No, typically no advance booking is required for general visits to the Summit Lake Nature Center. It's open for public exploration.
The Nature Center often hosts educational programs and events. Check the Summit County Metro Parks event calendar for upcoming activities.
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.
🎫 🏞️ 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.
Visitors can spot waterfowl, turtles, and various other local animals in and around Summit Lake. The Nature Center provides exhibits on these creatures.
Yes, clean restrooms are available at the Nature Center, which is a convenient amenity for visitors.
Some visitors have noted that Summit Lake can contain trash, which is unfortunate given the presence of wildlife. However, others have enjoyed kayaking and rafting, finding the experience peaceful.
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.
📸 📸 Photography
The Nature Center offers great views of the lake and surrounding area from its upstairs room. The Towpath Trail provides scenic backdrops, and the community garden offers colorful subjects.
Yes, Summit Lake is home to various wildlife like waterfowl and turtles, offering opportunities for nature photography. Remember to maintain a respectful distance.
Generally, personal photography is allowed in Summit Lake Park. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits. Always check park regulations if unsure.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best natural light for photography, especially for capturing wildlife and scenic views of the lake.
Yes, the community garden is a visually appealing area and is open for visitors to photograph.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the park offers a chance to see wildlife like waterfowl and turtles, some visitors have noted concerns about trash in the lake. 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.
🚴♀️ Cyclists and Hikers
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. The park itself offers trails around the lake, providing a pleasant route for a leisurely walk or a more vigorous hike.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts
Taking a kayak or raft out on the lake offers a unique perspective for observing wildlife in its natural setting. The community garden also adds to the natural appeal, showcasing local plant life. The knowledgeable and friendly staff at the Nature Center are a great resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the local ecosystem.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Revitalization of Summit Lake
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. However, the park itself and the Nature Center are highlighted as positive developments, turning an 'eyesore' into an 'inviting and educational' space. The goal is to create a welcoming environment for all residents and visitors to enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
Exploring the Summit Lake Nature Center
Beyond the indoor exhibits, the center boasts a community garden and outdoor displays showcasing the original pumps from the building's past. The staff are consistently praised for being friendly, informative, and eager to share their knowledge about the local wildlife and the park's initiatives. This makes the Nature Center a highly recommended stop for anyone interested in learning about the local ecosystem and history.
Recreational Activities on Summit Lake
While paddling, you can observe the local wildlife, including various waterfowl and turtles. The Nature Center staff are knowledgeable about the wildlife and can offer insights into what you might see. 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.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit