01
Best overall pick
Ledges Trail, Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park, North Of Akron • Rocky Forest Loop With Sandstone Cliffs • Scenic Must-Hike Near Akron
A short, dramatic loop through mossy sandstone walls and overlooks that feels far wilder than its mileage suggests.
The Ledges Trail is a 2.2–2.4 mile loop that packs in towering rock formations, cool shaded crevices, and a wide overlook across the valley. The footing is uneven in places, but the distance is manageable for most hikers and kids who like to scramble. Go near sunset if you can; the view from the Ledges Overlook is one of the classic sights within easy reach of Akron.
02
Best waterfall hike
Brandywine Gorge Loop, Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Northeast Of Akron • Waterfall Gorge Trail With Boardwalk Sections • Iconic Waterfall And Family-Friendly Loop
A compact loop that circles Brandywine Falls, blending easy boardwalk views with a more rugged walk along the creek and gorge.
Starting from the Brandywine Falls parking area, this roughly 1.4 mile loop gives you multiple perspectives on the park's most famous waterfall. The upper boardwalk sections are easy and accessible, while the lower gorge path adds roots, mud, and a more immersive feel along the water. It is popular, so aim for early morning or later evening if you prefer a quieter experience.
03
Best for relaxed mileage
Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail (Akron section)
Downtown Akron And Valley Corridor • Flat Multi-Use Path Along Historic Canal • Easygoing Pick For Walkers And Runners
A long, mostly flat path where you can choose your distance, mixing city edges, wooded stretches, and canal history.
The Towpath Trail threads right through Akron, with trailheads at places like the Mustill Store, Canal Park area, and further south toward Barberton. It is crushed limestone or paved in many sections, making it ideal for strollers, relaxed walks, or longer training runs without much elevation gain. Watch for lock ruins, canal structures, and frequent wildlife along the river as you go.
04
Best close-to-town escape
Sand Run Metro Park Trails
West Akron • Shady Ravine Trails With Stream Crossings • Local Favorite For After-Work Hikes
A hilly pocket of woods with winding trails, cool stream valleys, and the feel of a small mountain park minutes from neighborhoods.
Sand Run Metro Park offers several linked routes, including the popular Jogging Trail and Dogwood Trail, that range from mellow to moderately steep. Expect rolling climbs, footbridges, seasonal creek crossings, and dense tree cover that feels especially refreshing in summer. It is close enough for a quick loop after work, yet varied enough to keep regulars coming back all year.
05
Best valley views
Cascade Valley Metro Park Trails
North Akron • River Bluff Trails With Big-Sky Overlooks • Scenic Local Overlook Spot
Wooded hillside paths lead to sweeping views of the Cuyahoga River and its broad, green valley.
Cascade Valley's Oxbow and Chuckery areas offer loop options that climb from riverside floodplain up to high bluffs with striking overlooks. Trails here are generally moderate, with some short but punchy hills and a mix of dirt, roots, and steps. On clear days, the valley view feels surprisingly expansive for being only a few minutes from downtown Akron.