Gorge Metro Park
Metro Park
Thousands of years of history can be seen in the rock ledges and banks of Gorge Metro Park.
The Cuyahoga River Gorge was cut when glacial debris blocked the former route of the waterway (near present-day downtown Akron) and caused the river to find a new course. More recently in the mid to late 1800s, the gorge began attracting visitors from all over to enjoy amusements parks, dance halls picnicking and more. In 1911, the Gorge Dam was constructed to support hydroelectric power generation and to provide cooling water for a nearby coal-fired power plant and in 1930, the Northern Ohio Traction & Light Company, the predecessor of Ohio Edison, donated 144 acres of this land to Summit Metro Parks.
Today, visitors still enjoy the rocky outcrops and dramatic scenery of the Gorge. The rushing water of the Cuyahoga River flows over a shale riverbed, between ledges made of Sharon conglomerate sandstone. The most prominent rock shelter in Gorge Metro Park is Old Maid’s Kitchen, a name commonly given to such rock shelters by early European settlers to the area. Oak, blackgum, tulip and yellow birch trees are common in woods that cover the valley walls.
Both power plants have been shuttered for decades and Summit Metro Parks is partnering to remove the dam, allowing the Cuyahoga River to flow freely over the Big Falls for which the city of Cuyahoga Falls is named.
Explore the park
Gorge Metro Park offers many trails and activities for you to explore. All areas are open 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., unless otherwise noted. We have also provided a key to help you find the perfect trail.
Trail Classes: A = Multipurpose | B = Accessible* | C = Basic | D = Primitive** | E = Bridle Trail
Ratings: 1 = Easy | 2 = Moderate | 3 = Difficult
*Flat, easy trail or section with asphalt or crushed limestone surface. ** Rugged and challenging with uneven surfaces and steep, narrow routes
Main Entrance
- A – Multipurpose
- B – Accessible*
- C – Basic
- D – Primitive**
- E – Bridle
Located across Front Street from the main lot, Glens Trail offers views from the edge of the Cuyahoga River. Springs flow from the ledges along this trail, providing water needed for liverworts, and frozen icicles create a “crystal palace” on the gorge walls in winter. The trail is 1.8 miles round-trip.
- A – Multipurpose
- B – Accessible*
- C – Basic
- D – Primitive**
- E – Bridle
Gorge Trail provides access to Old Maid’s Kitchen , an easy half-mile walk from the parking lot. The trail quickly becomes more rugged past Old Maid’s Kitchen and along stunning rock-ledge formations. It is considered primitive in this section, earning the trail a class D status.
Highbridge Trail
- A – Multipurpose
- B – Accessible*
- C – Basic
- D – Primitive**
- E – Bridle
Highbridge Trail offers a moderately challenging hike on the other side of the Cuyahoga River from the Glens and Gorge trails. It spans between Cascade Valley Metro Park and Gorge Metro Park and is 3.2 miles round-trip.
Photo Gallery
View photos of Gorge Metro Park’s past and present, scenery and visitors.
Events in Summit Metro Parks
Come Join the Fun!
From kayaking to birdwatching, we’ve got you covered. Explore the calendar to find and register for upcoming events and programs.
