Posts with tag 'Fitness'

It's finally summer in Northeast Ohio. At least it feels like summer, and that's good enough for us! Time to get outside and get moving. 

Luckily, we'll have plenty of opportunities to do just that in the Cleveland, Akron, and Canton areas over the coming months. Lace up your running shoes and get ready for these exciting summer races in Northeast Ohio this season!

Ohio and Erie Canal Reservation Parkrun

4524 E. 49th St., Cleveland, OH 44125

You'll have multiple opportunities to participate in the Ohio and Erie Canal Reservation Parkrun throughout the summer. This weekly 5k takes place every Saturday at 9 am in Cleveland's Ohio and Erie Canal Reservation. It's a fun, family-friendly event that's always free to participants. Whether you want to run, walk, jog, volunteer, or simply cheer on the participants, it's a great way to spend a Saturday morning. Stick around afterward for post-Parkrun coffee at the Canalway Center Café.

Sippo Lake Parkrun

5712 12th St. NW, Canton, OH 44708

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The Sippo Lake Parkrun is another event that takes place weekly throughout the summer months, giving you numerous chances to participate. Starting every Saturday at 8 am, the Sippo Lake Parkrun follows a picturesque route through Sippo Lake Park in Canton. The course utilizes a combination of paved roads, crushed limestone paths, and hiking trails and offers some beautiful scenery. This weekly run is entirely volunteer-organized, and anyone is welcome to participate free of charge. 

National Interstate 8k & 1 Mile

288 Spicer St., Akron, OH 44304

Summa Health's Akron Marathon Race Series includes several much-anticipated races and runs throughout the summer months in Akron. First on the schedule this year is the National Interstate 8k and 1 Mile race. The event spans two days, with the 1-mile race kicking off at 7 pm on June 24, followed by the 8k run at 7:30 am on June 25. Both races begin on The University of Akron college campus and follow a course that provides a scenic tour of Downtown Akron. Registration is still open, and awards will be given to top finishers in various categories. 

Will Run for Tacos

2425 W. 11th St. #2, Cleveland, OH 44113

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Would you run a 5k for a taco? On Saturday, July 16, you can do just that and help fight hunger in Cleveland while you're at it. Will Run For Tacos is a 5k run/walk that helps raise money for the Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland. Participants will be rewarded at the end of the race with a finisher medal, t-shirt, and free taco courtesy of The South Side (additional prizes will be given to top finishers). Race day registration and packet pickup is at 7:30 on the morning of the 16th, and the walk/run gets underway at 8:30, beginning at Hermes Sports & Events.

Akron Trail Marathon

499 Memorial Pkwy., Akron, OH 44310

Also taking place on July 16, the Akron Trail Marathon is a challenging race that takes participants through some of the most beautiful parklands in the Akron area. Whether you choose to run the course as a marathon, half marathon, or 10k—the event includes all three—you'll be treated to scenery including woodlands, waterfalls, historic canal locks, and sweeping meadows. The Akron Trail Marathon helps support the Summit Metro Parks Foundation trail fund and follows a portion of the (mostly paved) Towpath Trail over varied terrain, with plenty of hills to keep things interesting!

Hofbräuhaus Cleveland Half Marathon

1550 Chester Ave., Cleveland, OH 44114

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Hofbräuhaus Cleveland is an amazing local German microbrewery and beer garden in Downtown Cleveland, and every year they host the Hofbräuhaus Cleveland Half Marathon, 10k and 5k run/walk. The festivities begin bright and early on Sunday, August 7, with registration and packet pickup beginning at 6 am, followed by the half marathon at 7, and then the 10k and 5k at 8. The races begin and end at the brewery, and all participants will receive a complimentary beer and bratwurst, in addition to t-shirts and finisher medals. 

Burning River Endurance Run & Relay

Front Street, Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221

Returning for its 16th year in 2022, the Burning River Endurance Run & Relay is not for the faint of heart. This grueling run and relay race follows a wide range of roads and trails from Cuyahoga Falls through some of Northeast Ohio's most beautiful and rugged landscapes, including Summit Metro Parks and Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Stretching from Saturday, July 30 to Sunday, July 31, the event includes 100-mile and 50-mile solo runs, as well as a 100-mile relay.

Goodyear Half Marathon & 10k

200 Innovation Way, Akron, OH 44316

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Akron has long been known as the "Rubber Capital of the World," in large part because the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company has been headquartered here since 1898. This year, August 13 will bring about the return of the Goodyear Half Marathon & 10k, one of several summer events that are part of the Akron Marathon Race Series. The race starts at 6:30 am, with the starting line at the Goodyear Proving Grounds and the finish line at Goodyear World Headquarters. 

Born to Run

Where will you hit the ground running this summer around Northeast Ohio?

With gyms closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many Northeast Ohio residents are struggling to keep fit. From YouTube videos to push-up and squat challenges, those who want to stay in shape have certainly found some creative outlets to do so.

For runners, a virtual 5K race is a fun and exciting way to enjoy the camaraderie of race day while still staying socially distant. How does it work? You simply register ahead of time, then, on the day of the race, run or walk in any place you choose. Your medal will be shipped directly to you! 

Sound like fun? You're in luck! There's certainly no shortage of upcoming virtual races in the local area. For each of these races, you can complete your run (or walk) any time between the start and end dates. Unless otherwise noted, you may also choose between a 1-mile, 5K, 10K, half-marathon, or marathon run. You'll time yourself, and race officials will ask you to send them your time. The prices include your medal, race bib, and shipping.  

Now that you know how everything works, here are a few you may want to check out.

Race Through the Clouds

Sunday, May 10th at 7 pm - Sunday, May 31st at 9 pm

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Children's Cancer Research (@childrenscancer) on Apr 8, 2020 at 8:04am PDT

This very special virtual race is being held in honor of Zach Sobiech, who wrote the song "Clouds" when he was dying of osteosarcoma at only 18 years old. The cloud-themed medal was made to honor his legacy and his "anthem of hope."

This race is held in May, to celebrate Zach's birthday, and 15% of the registration fee will be donated to the Zach Sobiech Osteosarcoma Funds. 

2020 Happy Hug Day

Saturday, May 16th at 7 pm - Sunday, May 31st at 9 pm 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by HUGS Foundation, Inc. (@hugsfoundationinc) on Apr 7, 2020 at 4:14pm PDT

You might not be able to give out real hugs right now, but you can virtually celebrate National Hug Day. For this race, 15% of the fees will go to the HUGS (Help Us Give Smiles) Foundation, Inc., an organization that gives free medical care to children and adolescents who have a cleft palate, cleft lip, microtia, and other facial deformities. 

You can also purchase an official race t-shirt or hoodie if you want to show extra support! 

The Great Toilet Paper Chase

Saturday, June 13th at 7 pm - Saturday, August 29th at 8 pm 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by World Health Organization (@who) on Apr 28, 2020 at 7:19am PDT

Did you know that National Toilet Paper Day is coming up on August 26th? Considering the craziness surrounding this essential product, it's only appropriate that a race is held in honor of it. 

A minimum of 30% of your $22 entry fee will go to the COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund through the World Health Organization. This charity helps provide frontline healthcare workers with essential supplies and supports research to speed the discovery of diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines. 

Get Truckin' 5K

Saturday, June 13th at 7 pm - Wednesday, September 30th at 8 pm

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by St Christopher Truckers Fund (@truckerfund) on May 5, 2020 at 8:37am PDT

One of the most essential, and under-recognized workers during the COVID-19 pandemic is the nation's truck drivers. These are the people who ensure that we're able to get food and critical medical supplies to the places that need them. Help support them by registering for the Get Truckin' 5K. 

Thirty percent of each registration goes to the St. Christopher Truckers Development and Relief Fund. For a limited time, you can also purchase a limited-edition t-shirt or hoodie.  

2020 Race for the Greatest

Saturday, June 20th at 7 pm - Sunday, August 23rd at 9 pm 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by After-School All-Stars (@afterschoolallstars) on Apr 29, 2020 at 11:06am PDT

On January 26th of this year, the world lost the great Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna. This race is held in his honor. The distances for this race are slightly different. Choose from a 2-mile, 8K (4.97 miles), or 24K (14.91 miles) run or walk. These numbers were chosen for Gianna's jersey numbers (2, 8, and 24). 

At least 34% of the registration cost will be donated to an organization that Bryant was passionate about After School All-Stars. You can also purchase an official t-shirt or hoodie. 

Father's Day 5K

Sunday, June 21st at 7 pm - Tuesday, June 30th at 9 pm

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Team Hoyt Official Page (@teamhoytofficial) on Apr 26, 2017 at 6:38pm PDT

Celebrate the important dads in your life and get a fun superhero medal! Run in honor of Dad, give the medal to him, or purchase an extra one to give as a gift. 

The registration is $22 and15% of the fee to Team Hoyt, which works with disabled and physically challenged young people to help build their self-esteem, character, and confidence. If you'd like, you can also purchase a commemorative t-shirt or hoodie. 

We're All in This Together: Social Distancing 6K

Saturday, June 27th at 7 pm - Monday, August 31st at 9 pm

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Feeding America (@feedingamerica) on May 4, 2020 at 8:59am PDT

In honor of the 6-foot social distancing recommendations, this race features a medal that reads "We're all in this together, but six feet apart." At least 30% of all proceeds from this race's registration will go toward supporting Feeding America, which supports food banks across the country. 

Champions for the Children 5K

Thursday, August 20th at 7 pm - Mon. Nov. 30th at 9 pm

This race is held in celebration of World Children's Day, which occurs on November 20th. Registration for this event is $22 and 25% of this goes to support Feeding America. 

Set Your New PR 

Which of these awesome virtual 5K races are you going to do? 

Are you feeling cooped up at home and need a bit of fresh air? Take advantage of Stark County's beautiful outdoor spaces and go for a relaxing walk. We're surrounded by picturesque trails that offer unspoiled areas where we can clear our heads and forget about life for a while. Spend a few hours strolling these Northeast Ohio walking trails and parks.

West Branch Trail

1305 Stadium Park Dr. NW, Canton, OH 44708

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Corianne Kocarek (@cmkocarek) on Oct 6, 2015 at 10:36am PDT

The West Branch Trail, running along the West Branch of the Nimishillen Creek, is a fantastic trail to walk if you want to get up close and personal with a few Stark County landmarks. This trail is just under four-and-a-half miles long and connects to seven parks, including what once was Mother Goose Land and Covered Bridge Park. Great for running, biking, hiking, or walking your dog the West Branch Trail

Congressman Ralph Regula Towpath Trail Park

Lake Lucerne Trailhead, 7975 Erie Ave. NW, Canal Fulton, OH 44614

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by deRoshaCREATIVE (@daniel_derosha) on May 19, 2019 at 1:22am PDT

While you may not want to walk the full 25 miles of the Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail, you can explore the Congressman Ralph Regula trail at one of 14 trailheads. We suggest taking on the Canal Fulton northern section at the Lake Lucerne Trailhead. This trailhead offers a convenient place to park and walk then cast a line when your return.

Devonshire Park and Trail

4679 South Blvd. NW, Canton, OH 44718

Get off of the beaten path and get close to wildlife at the Devonshire Park and Trail. This trail extends only a little longer than a half of a mile and runs on mowed grass to offer an easy opportunity for wildlife viewing and birdwatching. Fishing is also permitted at this park, but these conservation lands are also great for children to enjoy with their parents.

Hoover Trail

Hoover Community Recreational Complex, 1325 E. Maple St., North Canton, OH 44720

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Sean Zaleski (@szaleski) on Oct 20, 2019 at 12:35pm PDT

Although the recreation complexes may be unavailable, you can still find plenty of space to roam on the Hoover Trail. Park at the Hoover Community Recreational Complex and walk along the 5-mile trail that connects with other areas of the Hoover District. Animal sightings are common along this trail during all seasons, so be sure to take it slow and keep your eyes open!

Mahoning Valley Trail

Deer Creek Reservoir, 14514 Price St. NE, Alliance, OH 44601 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Suzette (@sbarstow922) on May 7, 2019 at 9:18am PDT

If you've ever wanted to get a closer look at the Mahoning River, head over to the Mahoning Valley Trail. You can start your hike on this scenic trail at the Deer Creek Reservoir and enjoy a 4-mile walk over boardwalks, bridges, and along the Mahoning River. There are a few picnic areas around the trailhead as well where you can have lunch as well.

Nickel Plate Trail

2923 Pinevale Ave. NE, Louisville, OH 44641

The Nickel Plate Trail is a great mix of urban and rural landscapes. Stretching four miles with its recently added section, most of this trail is unpaved gravel or unimproved natural surface, making it a little more of a challenge than a typical stroll would entail. There are often horses on the trail, and with private property surrounding much of the area, it's best to remain on the trail and stay visible to other passersby.

Pioneer Trail

2600 Harvard Ave. NW, Canton, OH 44709

Another small trail in the Canton area, the Pioneer Trail is just over one-mile long and takes hikers towards the campus of Malone University. Unlike some of the flatter trails of the area, the Pioneer Trail features inclines and declines throughout, making it a good trail for runners, more active hikers, and bikers.

Sandy Valley Trail and Waynesburg Park Loop Trail

262 Maple St., Waynesburg, OH 44688

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Stark Parks (@starkparks) on May 7, 2019 at 12:20pm PDT

For those who would like to get a few laps in, the Waynesburg Park Loop Trail is perfect. Short and sweet, this trail circles the park. You can add three-quarters-of-a-mile to your exercise by walking the Sandy Valley Trail.

Sippo Valley Trail

2069 Skyland Ave. NW, Massillon, OH 44647

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Corianne Kocarek (@cmkocarek) on Oct 19, 2015 at 6:09am PDT

A much longer trail that connects to the Towpath Trail, the Sippo Valley Trail stretches ten miles. It begins as an asphalt trail but does transition to limestone farther down. You'll walk parallel to Sippo Creek, and most of the trail is relatively flat, offering a simple but long trek between the trailheads.

Iron Horse Trail

1141 W. Beech St., Alliance, OH 44601

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Stark Parks (@starkparks) on Jun 11, 2019 at 6:58am PDT

Once a railroad right-of-way, the Iron Horse Trail now offers four-and-a-half miles of biking and hiking space for people and their pets. With a trailhead at the First Christian Church and an adjacent neighborhood, the Iron Horse Trail is convenient for Alliance families to access.

Cook's Lagoon and Trail

1819 Mahoning Road NE, Canton, OH 44705

Cook's Lagoon is a popular fishing hole, but it's a nice walking trail with benches and an easy walk for those who want to stroll at their own pace.

Molly Stark Park

7900 Columbus Rd. NE, Louisville, OH 44641

 

 

 

 

 

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Get your fill of trails at Molly Stark Park. In the process of becoming a 35-acre park with hiking trails, gardens, and plenty of outdoor space to explore, Molly Stark Park is a great place to find fresh air close to home. Be sure to research the history and mysteries of the Molly Stark Park building to understand why it was a significant hospital for the treatment of Tuberculosis.

Social Distancing in Serene Surroundings

Where do you love to get away and embrace a nature hike? Tell us in the comments below.

When you need a breath of fresh air far from the city crowds, you'll find ample space to roam in Columbus. With many miles of bike paths and trails, our city has a lot to offer for anyone who loves the great outdoors. 

Columbus is also a major hub for state-wide trails and greenways, some of which stretch for hundreds of miles across the Buckeye State. These bike paths in the Columbus area offer ample opportunities to get outside, get in shape, and simply enjoy the greener side of Central Ohio.

Alum Creek Trail

Three Creeks Metro Park, 3860 Bixby Road, Groveport, OH 43125

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Dan Halen (@dan_c_woodburn) on Jul 26, 2017 at 5:22pm PDT

A favorite multi-use trail that stretches roughly 25 miles across Franklin County, the Alum Creek Trail offers a well-maintained hard surface for hikers and cyclists. The trail follows the picturesque Columbus river corridor, from Westerville to Three Creeks Park, passing through several parks and neighborhoods along the way. Construction on the trail was completed in 2015, and the Alum Creek Trail has quickly become the go-to destination for Columbus residents looking to get outside.
 

Olentangy Trail

Whetstone Park, 3901 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43210

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Maria Lammy (@kmlammy) on Apr 9, 2016 at 5:14pm PDT

The Olentangy Trail is a great place to go for a bike ride, but for many first-time visitors to Columbus, its central location makes it one of the most popular ways to explore the city on foot. The trail connects the community of Worthington to downtown Columbus, meandering through several neighborhoods along the banks of the Olentangy River. Along the way, the Olentangy Trail passes through the Ohio State University campus, with trailheads at Whetstone Park as well as several other major city parks.
 

Scioto Trail

Scioto Trail Park, 2951 S. High St. Columbus, OH 43207

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Experience Columbus (@experiencecolumbus) on Aug 19, 2019 at 6:59am PDT

The first greenway ever built in Columbus, the Scioto Trail has been a treasured resource for hikers and cyclists in the city since 1976. It's still a favorite local bike path, with sections on either side of the Scioto River, including the downtown riverfront, where you can get a great view of the Columbus skyline. The most well-known section of the path is the Scioto Mile, which includes a string of prominent parks, promenades, and landmarks. Near the south edge of Downtown Columbus, the trail traverses the beautiful Scioto Audubon Park, including a trailhead at the Audubon Nature Center. The Scioto Trail also directly connects to the Olentangy Trail.

Heritage Trail

7262 Hayden Run Road, Hilliard, OH 43026

Following an old abandoned rail line from Old Hilliard to Cemetery Pike, the Heritage Trail one of the less-used bike paths in the Columbus area. That makes it a great place to beat the crowds, although the Heritage Dog Park at one end of the trail does make it a popular spot for dog walking. Paved, well maintained, and easy to follow, it's a great place for an afternoon bike ride, passing through about 7 miles of fields and farmlands just outside Columbus.
 

Blacklick Creek Greenway

Three Creeks Metropark, 3860 Bixby Road, Groveport, OH 43125

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Garren Griffith (@garrengriffith) on Apr 25, 2013 at 5:11pm PDT

Running parallel to its namesake creek for most of its 18-mile length, the Blacklick Creek Greenway stretches from Reynoldsburg to Groveport on the southeastern edge of Columbus. There are several parks and trails in the Columbus area where you can hop on the Blacklick Creek Greenway, but a favorite spot is Three Creeks Metro Park. This park marks the spot where the Alum, Big Walnut, and Blacklick creeks join; and it's also home to sections of both the Blacklick Creek Greenway and the Alum Creek Greenway.
 

Chestnut Ridge Mountain Bike Trail

Chestnut Ridge Metro Park, 8445 Winchester Road NW, Carroll, OH 43112

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Miranda K. (@ramandalaney) on Jul 7, 2019 at 5:20pm PDT

While many of Columbus' bike paths are great for easy rambles along relatively flat, paved trailways, the mountain bike trail at Chestnut Ridge Metro Park offers something a little more extreme. Just a few miles southeast of Columbus, Chestnut Ridge is actually the first ridge of the Appalachian Mountains, and the Chestnut Ridge Mountain Bike Trail is a great place for an intense mountain biking experience. The trail runs a little over 9 miles through deep woods, with many steep climbs and descents, along with a few bridges and some steep, banked turns. The trail is divided into two loops, one for beginner to intermediate mountain bikers, and the other for experienced cyclists only.
  

Big Walnut Trail

Inniswood Metro Gardens, 940 S. Hempstead Road, Westerville, OH 43081

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Ian Meske (@imcafn8) on May 23, 2016 at 9:12pm PDT

The Big Walnut Trail stretches a little over 10 miles through several Columbus area parks, including Inniswood Metro Gardens, a lovely botanical garden and nature preserve that's open free of charge seven days a week to the general public. Popular for jogging and dog walking as well as biking, the Big Walnut Trail is a paved multi-use trail that also offers expansive views of Hoover Reservoir and the parks along the lakeshore.
 

Camp Chase Trail

Battelle Darby Creek Metropark, 1775 Darby Creek Dr, Galloway, OH 43119

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Rick Hikes (@rickhikes) on Oct 4, 2019 at 10:58am PDT

Just over 16 miles long, the Camp Chase trail runs between the cities of London and Columbus, acting as a connector between Madison and Franklin counties. The trail is relatively level and easy for biking, consisting of paved double-track that follows the course of a railroad line. In addition to being a great biking spot for Columbus residents, the Camp Chase Trail is also a crucial link in the much longer Ohio to Erie Trail, which stretches 326 miles across the state of Ohio from southwest to northeast.

Hit the Trails

Did we forget to mention your favorite trail? Be sure to let us know in the comments section!

Lace-up your running shoes and fill up your water bottle — it's time to train for your next race! As the warm weather slides into Northeast Ohio, the many trails and pathways around the region are shaking off their snow and inviting runners to go the extra mile in preparation for 5Ks, 10Ks, and marathon races! Even if you're not training to beat your record time, frequent running will keep your form consistent and help you complete each race you enter. Check out these trails located in a few of our favorite green spaces around the Cleveland area.

Big Creek Reservation

4101 Fulton Parkway, Cleveland, OH 44144

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by @diane.busch1953 on May 27, 2016 at 3:41pm PDT

The fishing, sledding, and picnicking at Big Creek Reservation are all enjoyable, but the gem of the park has to be the gorgeous Lake to Lake Trail. Connecting Lake Isaac to Lake Abram, this 2.4-mile all-purpose trail crosses through the wetlands and provides a steady pathway for runners entering into their first race to gain their footing.

Punderson State Park

11755 Kinsman Road, Newbury, OH 44065

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Amanda-ExploringClevelandParks (@exploringclevelandparks) on Sep 15, 2019 at 6:08am PDT

Just a short drive from downtown Cleveland is Punderson State Park. While others boat on Punderson Lake or play golf, you can take advantage of nearly 11 miles of trail. Of the eight trails in the park, the farthest is 2.2 miles, while the shortest is a simple 0.1 mile — most hover been 0.75 and 1.2 miles. With such easy and accessible trails available, this is a great place to get a quick run in before you enjoy the park's other amazing amenities.

North Chagrin Reservation

Cleveland Metro Park Drive, Mayfield Village, OH 44143

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Susan Lash (@sz_lash) on Dec 20, 2017 at 4:58am PST

The North Chagrin Reservation is a fantastic place for runners who love adventure. Within the reservation is Foster's Run, a stunning trail that connects a newly constructed all-purpose trail with an old roadway. Although this trail connects the Wilson Mills Road Trailhead parking lot with the Forest Picnic Area, you can choose to jump on the Buckeye Trail or Bridle Trail to extend your run. There's also a physical fitness trail on the reservation that offers additional opportunities to exercise.

Acacia Reservation

26899 Cedar Road, Lyndhurst, OH 44124

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Anna Pauline Chłopecki (@chlopeck) on Sep 8, 2018 at 8:34am PDT

Looking for a place to run with nature while doing so on a paved path? Acacia Reservation sounds like the spot for you. Their 1.7-mile paved loop trail offers an opportunity to tackle a manageable run or work on your stamina with multiple laps.

Springfield Bog Metro Park

1400 Portage Line Road, Akron, OH 44312

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by My Ohio Adventure (@myohioadventure) on Aug 8, 2017 at 6:55pm PDT

The Springfield Bog Metro Park is home to the Prairie Trail, an easy 1.6-mile jaunt that leads runners through a gorgeous prairie. This park is less than a decade old and was once unused farmland. As you run, you'll see more than 40 species of plant wave to you as this beautiful new boggy area continues to thrive.  

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

15610 Vaughn Road, Brecksville, OH 44141

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Cuyahoga Valley National Park (@cuyahogavalleynps) on Sep 30, 2019 at 7:18am PDT

The parks and reservations above offer fantastic trails that will surely help you get in shape for your 5K, but we've saved our top pick for last — Cuyahoga Valley National Park. This massive park connecting Akron and Cleveland offers up over 125 miles worth of hiking trail for you to break in your running shoes and set your sights on breaking every goal you set. With so many trails to choose from, you'll have plenty of opportunities to get to know this park inside and out. Here are a few of the trails we suggest you conquer in each area of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

Kendall Lake Area Trails

The trails in the Kendall Lake Area are practically built for runners who want to gradually increase their goals. We like to think of them as perfect markers to help track our progress. The Lake Trail is an easy one-mile trail while the Cross Country Trail is a little more challenging at 2.5 miles. Did you guess that the third trail, the Salt Run Trail, was 3.3 miles and the most challenging? Master each one individually, then combine them to really test your limits!

Ledges Area Trails

Here are two sets of trails for two types of runners. Those who are shaking off the rust or are running for their first time will love the easy Forest Point Trail and Haskell Run. Both are only half-of-a-mile long and hardly have an elevation change. The other two trails, Ledges Trail and Pine Grove Trail are each 2.2 miles long and offer a moderate challenge. We love running the longer trails for endurance and hitting the shorter trailers hard for an explosive final sprint to the finish!

Cuyahoga Valley Trails

The Cuyahoga Valley Trails tackle three areas of the park from Station Road to Boston to Everett. Their four loop trails have the following distances: Station Road Bridge to Red Lock 10.3 miles, Red Lock to Boston 8.1 miles, Boston to Peninsula 7.4 miles, and Peninsula to Hunt Farm 9.4 miles. While trekking through these areas, you'll use different pathways including the statewide Buckeye Trail, the Valley Trail, and Towpath Trail. These runs can be quite tiresome, especially if you're still getting into the groove of long-distance running. Thankfully, there are many parking lots lining the trails, which allow you to carve out small sections of them and gradually increase your out-and-back distance when you're comfortable.

Oak Hill and Plateau Trails

If you follow Oak Hill Road north just past the Cuyahoga Valley Environment Education Center, you'll be able to access the Oak Hill Trail and the Plateau Trail. Both trails are loops, with the Oak Hill Trail labeled an easy trail at 1.8 miles and the Plateau Trail stretching just under 5 miles, with a moderate to difficult ranking. Either trail alone offers a solid run; however, what we like most about this duo is the Oak Hill Trail connects to the Plateau Trail at six spots. If 5 miles is too much yet 2 miles is too little, you can break off of the Oak Hill trail, run through sections of the Plateau Trail, then jump back on the Oak Trail to finish. This allows you to make the Oak Hill Trail stretch as far as you desire.

Wetmore Area Trails

The Wetmore Area Trails are quite scenic, so much so that when we aren't training for a race, we love to take the slow route via horseback. You can access five trails from the Hunt House right on Bolanz Road — Wetmore Trail, Butler's Trail, Langes Run Trail, Tabletop Trail, and Valley Trail. Butler's Trail is a quick and easy 0.6-mile out-and-back trail while the Tabletop Trail is a little longer at 0.75 mile that acts as a short cut through the Wetmore Trail. The Wetmore Trail and Langes Trail are longer, at 4.5 miles and 3.5 miles respectively, and offer a moderate to difficult run. However, we suggest that marathon runners set their sights on the 19-mile Valley Trail. It's quite a trek, but uninterrupted paths with ranging levels of difficulty offer a chance to really test your strength and stamina.

On Track

Where are your favorite places to run free around Cleveland? Let us know in the comments below!