Foster Metropark is a diverse natural area in Summit County, Ohio, offering extensive trails, wetlands, forests, and recreational opportunities close to urban centers.
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.
The extensive multi-use trail network suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding
Diverse wetland ecosystems with opportunities to spot migratory birds and amphibians
The stocked fishing pond popular with local anglers
Scenic views along the Cuyahoga River with paddling access points
The river forms the natural boundary of the park, providing scenic views and paddling options for kayakers and canoeists.
Several protected wetlands within the park support diverse amphibian and bird populations, making them excellent spots for nature observation.
Over 14 miles of interconnected trails accommodate hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, traversing varied terrain from forest to meadow.