By Lindsay Smith, marketing coordinator
Summit Metro Parks opened its first mountain bike trails in Hampton Hills Metro Park this spring. The newly developed Mountain Bike Area (2092 Theiss Rd., Akron) features more than 5 miles of beginner and intermediate trails. A few miles of advanced trail will be added before winter. Plans to extend the course over the next several years could result in 13 to 16 total miles of trails to ride.
The Trails
“At Hampton Hills, mountain bikers of all experience levels can test their skills. Start with the short beginner loop, and gain confidence to ride the moderate loops. Difficult sections are coming later. If you are really adventurous, try riding over the four optional skill sets. The ‘snake ladder’ is quite challenging,” noted Project Manager Mark Avery, who oversaw the development of the area for the park district.
“If you are a more seasoned rider, head north to the intermediate trails, which will take you into a steep ravine leading down to Woodward Creek. This section of trail is fast and challenging with big berms, and wooden features. The ‘skinny challenge’ and the big drop are not for the timid,” said Avery.
Higher levels of skill and stamina are recommended for these aggressive trails. It is from here that the trail will expand over the next year to cross Woodward Creek and connect with trails off Akron-Peninsula Road. Eventually, when trail connections are complete, Summit Metro Parks will add a small parking area on Akron-Peninsula Road.
Volunteers from the Cleveland Area Mountain Bike Association (or CAMBA) will help monitor trail riding conditions to report to other users. Trail status updates will be posted on Twitter: @SMPmountainbike.
“The trail system, when completed, will accommodate a wide range of riding skills — from earliest beginners to experts. CAMBA is proud to have a part in this project,” said Mike Ryba, Summit County resident and CAMBA board member.
Other Highlights
In addition to the trails, visitors can enjoy a picnic shelter with a gorgeous view to the northwest. The plaza also has a bike repair station and information kiosk with maps, rules and other information. A restroom facility will be completed this fall.
Aside from riding the trails, visitors will find this area is an awesome natural resource that is home to many species. “We have seen deer, coyotes, amphibians, reptiles and birds,” Avery added. “Riding the mountain bike trails is a unique way to experience the beauty of this incredible place, with ponds, streams, wonderful vistas, meadows and forests.”
Since the natural trail surface is susceptible to damage in inclement conditions, the area may be closed intermittently. When trail conditions are dry and suitable, the area will be open daily, and may even be open during the winter months if appropriate conditions exist.
Park visitors, take note: This is the park district’s first area designed only for mountain biking. For the safety of both riders and pedestrians, hiking, running and pets are not allowed on these trails.
Join us for our second Mountain Bike Area open house this year!
Mountain Bike Area Open House
Hampton Hills Metro Park / Mountain Bike Area (2029 Theiss Rd., Akron)
Saturday, September 17, 10 a.m. — 3 p.m.
Join Summit Metro Parks to enjoy the Hampton Hills Mountain Bike Area, whether you own a bike or not! Local cycling shops will have loaner bikes, and food trucks will be on site.
Take a unique look at the Mountain Bike Area trails!
Share your mountain biking adventures on Twitter and Instagram using #summitmetroparks
https://twitter.com/bcanter21/status/739539723887218689https://twitter.com/flyngzebra/status/738720897150951424
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This story was originally published in Green Islands Magazine, Summer 2016