Cascade Park

Cascade Park, located in Akron, Ohio, is a significant natural and historical site within the Summit Metro Parks system. The park encompasses 526 acres of land along the Cuyahoga River, offering visitors a unique blend of scenic beauty and industrial heritage.

The park is divided into several distinct areas, each with its own characteristics. The Chuckery Area features diverse ecosystems, including a prairie and meadow with rare plant species. This section also contains the Chuckery Trail, a challenging 2.4-mile loop that passes by the historic Indian Signal Tree and provides views of the Cuyahoga River.

In the Overlook Area, visitors can experience one of the park's most dramatic features - a viewing deck extending over the cliff edge, offering spectacular vistas of the river valley 125 feet below. This area is often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of Ohio" due to its impressive views.

The Schumacher Valley Area, named after Sherman and Mary Schumacher who donated 171 acres to the park in 1968, is known for its rugged terrain and pristine scenery. It includes the Schumacher Trail, a 1.2-mile path that provides a more strenuous hiking experience.

Cascade Park also plays a crucial role in preserving the area's industrial history. The park includes remnants of the Ohio & Erie Canal, particularly the Cascade Locks, which were instrumental in Akron's early development. These locks, built in the 1820s, formed part of a "staircase" system that allowed canal boats to navigate the significant elevation change in the area.

The park's newest addition, the Valley View Area, was acquired in 2016. This former golf course has undergone extensive restoration efforts to return it to a more natural state, significantly increasing the biodiversity of the area.

Throughout the year, Summit Metro Parks organizes various educational programs and events in Cascade Park, focusing on the area's natural history, conservation efforts, and environmental stewardship.