Visit Summit Lake Nature Center to view live native animal displays, exhibits about the people and nature resources of the Summit Lake Community, and more!

A natural, glacial lake and the high point along the Ohio & Erie Canal, Summit Lake has a long and fascinating history. Surrounded by a tamarack swamp prior to 1800, this lake was part of the original route used by Indigenous populations to portage …

Jul 1, 2021 · In the 63 years since Summit Beach Amusement Park closed, the lake has slowly become cleaner, a nature center has taken the place of the old pump house, a farmer's market takes place every Tuesday, and a historical marker commemorates what was once nicknamed “Akron’s Coney Island.”

Keep moving in the winter months by walking the gym at Summit Lake! We proudly partner with local organizations & groups to allow more activities to take place in our centers. Even though we would like to think we are experts in all things recreation, sometimes it's better to bring in a specialist. Call the center for registration details.

Feb 9, 2021 · For decades, Summit Lake has embedded itself into Akron’s long and storied past. One hundred years ago, Summit Beach Park held its opening day as an amusement park. The summer of 1917 saw Ohioans near and far flock to the park area to enjoy rides on “The Whip” and other thrilling rollercoasters.

Once the “million-dollar playground,” Summit Lake Park is reimagined as a platform for activities such as bicycling, canoeing, community gardening and cultural programming to attract area residents and trail users from throughout the region.

Jan 26, 2025 · Head out on this 2.5-mile loop trail near Akron, Ohio. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 45 min to complete. This trail is great for birding, fishing, and hiking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring.

Sep 26, 2023 · The Summit Lake community celebrated the opening of the new Ohio and Erie Canal Summit Lake Trail. The trail loops around the lake and connects to the Towpath Trail.

Here are some ways you can enjoy Summit Lake, the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, and park. The Towpath Trail is 87 miles in length, meaning there are many options for users to hop on at Summit Lake and travel north or south to downtown Akron, Cleveland, Summit Metro Parks, Barberton, and beyond.

Jul 2, 2021 · The grand opening of the nature center was Thursday morning, with local officials and community members gathering at the center along the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail on the shore of Summit Lake.