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Portage Lakes State Park
4.5 ★★★★★ 4,319 Google reviews · Running trail in Akron, Ohio · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Paved
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Portage Lakes State Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
A magnet for boaters, this park features 8 lakes as well as camping spots & picnic shelters.
What runners say about Portage Lakes State Park
“A very well maintained beach, a new visitor center, dog park, disc golf, plenty of boating opportunities and hiking.”
“For a more laid-back experience, the park's picnic areas provide a picturesque setting for outdoor meals.”
“It is surrounded by water, with a boat ramp and dock and is so peaceful and beautiful.”
There is still so much more for me to explore here to give a thorough review. However, I must say the following for now. The path for walking are amazing. You have a full view or the lake and still can get sun.. then there are some areas for shade. I went and bank fished the entire pathway.
This state park offers a wide array of amenities/activities. There's boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, a playground, basketball court, two sand volley ball courts, a dog park, and lots of picnic areas. Most of the trails can be found near the swimming beach/playground area.
I love taking my dogs for walks here. Its so close and so many trails to get "almost" lost in. Love the views of the water!
Outstanding visitors center with a topographical map of the park. There is a small man-made beach and swimming area cordened off with buoys, kids play area, frisbee golf course, picnic area and a few nice trails, though they aren't particularly well marked.
Trail conditions & character
“For a more laid-back experience, the park's picnic areas provide a picturesque setting for outdoor meals.”
“It was my family's first time doing 4th of July fireworks at Portage Lakes and we'll definitely be returning annually!”
“There's boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, a playground, basketball court, two sand volley ball courts, a dog park, and lots of picnic areas.”
“It is surrounded by water, with a boat ramp and dock and is so peaceful and beautiful.”
“There are hiking trails and some paved level paths but be cautious of uneven grassy areas and ticks.”
“There are hiking trails and some paved level paths but be cautious of uneven grassy areas and ticks.”
“Overall, this is a nice place with tons of parking and plenty of things for to do.”
Plan your run at Portage Lakes State Park
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- SurfacePaved — asphalt or concrete. Fast and predictable, runnable year-round, and fine with a stroller
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Trail mapOfficial trail map
- Websiteohiodnr.gov
- Phone+1 330-644-2220
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 8 am–11 pm |
| Tuesday | 8 am–11 pm |
| Wednesday | 8 am–11 pm |
| Thursday | 8 am–11 pm |
| Friday | 8 am–11 pm |
| Saturday | 8 am–11 pm |
| Sunday | 8 am–11 pm |
Running trails near Akron
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Portage Lakes State Park Beach
4.5 ★★★★★ 546 reviews
Family-friendly beach and swimming spot, along with picnic tables and a playground.
Knapp Recreation Area
4.7 ★★★★★ 82 reviews
Small lakeside park with picnic tables and trails for hiking and dog-walking, plus a shelter.
Vanderhoof Road Trailhead
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Trail along a canal popular for hiking and cycling, featuring a picnic area and ample restrooms.
Towpath Trailhead at Manchester Rd
4.5 ★★★★★ 190 reviews
Flat trail that traces the former Ohio & Erie Canal and is popular for hiking, fishing and biking.
Wolf Creek Trailhead
4.5 ★★★★★ 140 reviews
Trail with a towpath that's popular for walking and biking.
Franklin Trailhead
4.7 ★★★★★ 86 reviews
Well-kept path for walking, biking and hiking through woods and along a canal.