Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Foster Metropark spans over 1,000 acres in Summit County, Ohio, near the city of Green. The park features diverse habitats including dense hardwood forests, expansive wetlands, open meadows, and stretches along the upper Cuyahoga River. This variety of ecosystems supports a rich array of wildlife such as white-tailed deer, various waterfowl, amphibians, and migratory songbirds, making it a prime location for wildlife observation and birdwatching. Foster Metropark is owned and managed by the Summit Metro Parks system, aimed at preserving local flora and fauna while providing residents with outdoor recreational opportunities. Visitors can access more than 14 miles of multi-use trails including hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian trails that cross through forested terrain and open wetland areas. The park also has several picnic shelters, a large fishing pond stocked with bass and panfish, and designated areas for cross-country skiing during winter. The Cuyahoga River, which runs along the park’s border, offers paddling options and scenic views. Historically, the land was originally rural farmland before being acquired by the park district in the mid-20th century for conservation and public use. Foster Metropark attracts a wide variety of visitors from families enjoying leisure walks to outdoor enthusiasts seeking longer trail rides or nature study. Its relatively close proximity to Akron and Cleveland makes it an accessible green space offering natural experiences within a metropolitan area.
