The best MTB trails around Akron
5.0
(1)
59
riders
10
rides
Mountain biking around Akron offers diverse landscapes and extensive trail systems, catering to various skill levels. The region features lush forests, rolling hills, and the Cuyahoga River, providing varied terrain for riders. Significant natural features include Cuyahoga Valley National Park and the expansive Summit Metro Parks. These areas combine to create a rich environment for outdoor activities, particularly mountain biking.
Best mountain bike trails around Akron
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Hampton Hills Mountain Bike Area loop, a 4.2 miles (6.8 km) trail that takes about 35 minutes to complete. This difficult route offers varied terrain and skill-building features within Hampton Hills Metro Park.
- Another top favourite among local mountain bikers is Bike & Hike Trail Loop, a moderate 23.4 miles (37.7 km) path. This route follows a paved rail-to-trail conversion, connecting to other trails and offering opportunities for longer rides.
- Local mountain bikers also love the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, a 13.1 miles (21.1 km) trail leading through historic canal paths and scenic river views, often completed in about 1 hour 10 minutes.
- Mountain biking around Akron is defined by lush forests, rolling hills, and historic canal paths. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy multi-use trails to challenging singletrack.
- The routes in Akron are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 1 review. More than 70 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore Akron's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
6
riders
6.79km
00:35
50m
50m
Get ready for a challenging ride on the Hampton Hills Mountain Bike Area loop, a difficult 4.2-mile (6.8 km) route that promises a dynamic experience. You'll gain 175 feet (53 metres) of elevation over an estimated 34 minutes, navigating through a picturesque wooded park. Expect to encounter glacially-formed hills and diverse landscapes, with the trail winding past ponds, streams, and meadows, offering glimpses of dense forests filled with oak, elm, and sycamore trees. The ride features a mix of flowing singletrack, elevated ridge lines, and sections that cross small creeks, keeping you engaged from start to finish.
Planning your visit to the Hampton Hills Mountain Bike Area is straightforward. You will find a spacious parking lot available, along with restrooms for your convenience. There's even a bike repair kiosk with air, which is handy for any last-minute adjustments. Remember that this trail system is exclusively for bikes; hiking, running, and pets are not permitted on these specific trails, ensuring a dedicated mountain biking experience.
This loop is notable for its location within Hampton Hills Metro Park, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and purpose-built mountain biking terrain. The area's glacially-formed hills contribute to the varied and engaging ride, making it a standout option for mountain biking enthusiasts in the region. The diverse landscapes, from open meadows to dense forests, provide a constantly changing backdrop as you tackle the challenging sections of the trail.
1
riders
37.7km
02:01
150m
150m
Embark on a moderate mountain biking adventure along the Bike & Hike Trail Loop, a route that promises a varied ride with delightful dips and rises. You will cover 23.4 miles (37.7 km) and gain 504 feet (154 metres) in elevation, typically completing the loop in about 2 hours. As you pedal, look for picturesque natural views, including the scenic Cuyahoga River Overlook at Brust Park, where you might spot local wildlife.
While sections of the trail are well-paved and straightforward, be prepared for some navigation challenges. The route can include on-road sections and poorly marked detours, especially when passing through neighborhoods. Always check local conditions before you head out to ensure a smooth and enjoyable ride.
This trail is part of the larger Ohio Bike & Hike Trail system, known for its diverse terrain and its history as a "rails to trails" conversion. Beyond the natural beauty, you will encounter impressive Sharon Conglomerate rock walls in certain areas, adding a unique geological feature to your mountain biking experience.
Sign up for free
2
riders
21.1km
01:10
30m
30m
This easy 13.1-mile mountain biking trail follows the historic Ohio & Erie Canal through Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
8.99km
00:30
50m
50m
This easy 5.6-mile mountain biking loop in Bath Nature Preserve offers diverse habitats and takes around 29 minutes to complete.
32.7km
01:50
110m
110m
Mountain bike the easy 20.3-mile Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, gaining 363 feet while exploring historical sites and natural beauty.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Once upon a time (but really not that long ago), mules walked this towpath as they hauled boats up and down the Ohio & Erie Canal. Nowadays, the towpath is a wonderful multi-use trail that threads alongside the canal and through the occasional bridge, like this one.
0
0
This bridge crosses the Cuyahoga River on the Towpath Trail, just downstream from the popular Lock 29 Trailhead.
0
0
The North Fork Trail passes through the heart of the Bath Nature Preserve. The trail connects to a few other paths and parks and is a popular option for both foot traffic and bikes. The Bath Nature Preserve is a nature and wildlife safe haven just outside of Cuyahoga Valley National Park. The others trails in the park are popular for birding, with wetland and pond ecosystems acting as home to many different avian species.
0
0
This part of the popular Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail leads from Memorial Parkway in Akron up to the northern section of Cascade Valley Metro Park. A big part of the trail follows the course of the Cuyahoga River, and you will find some segments leading over wooden boardwalks.
0
0
The Cascade Locks Area of the Cascade Valley Metro Park is just outside downtown Akron. This is the area where the Ohio and Erie Canal empties into the Cuyahoga River.
0
0
This covered bridge is a popular spot along the Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail. It is located just before the Cascade Locks Area of the Cascade Valley Metro Park.
0
0
This part of the Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath is located in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park and leads from the town of Peninsula to the Everett Historic District. It leads through green nature while following the course of the Cuyahoga River.
0
0
This bridge crosses the Cuyahoga River on the Towpath Trail, just downstream from the popular Lock 29 Trailhead.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available around Akron?
There are over 10 mountain bike trails around Akron listed on komoot, offering diverse experiences for various skill levels. These include everything from easy multi-use paths to challenging singletrack routes.
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails in Akron?
Akron's mountain bike trails feature diverse terrain, from the packed sand and aggregate surface of the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail to the varied and skill-building features found in areas like Hampton Hills Mountain Bike Area. You'll encounter lush forests, rolling hills, and dedicated singletrack designed to follow natural topography, especially within Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Akron?
Yes, Akron offers several easy mountain bike trails. The Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail is an excellent option, providing a mostly flat, packed surface suitable for all skill levels. Another easy route is the North Fork Trail loop, which offers a gentle ride through natural surroundings.
What are some challenging mountain bike trails for advanced riders in Akron?
For advanced riders, the Hampton Hills Mountain Bike Area loop is rated as difficult, featuring varied terrain and skill-building elements. Additionally, the East Rim Trail System in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, while not explicitly listed in the guide data, is known for challenging sections like the Edson Run, offering exciting obstacles and flow.
Are there any family-friendly mountain bike trails in Akron?
Absolutely. The Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail is ideal for families, offering a long, relatively flat, and scenic ride through historic areas and natural landscapes. Its easy grade and wide path make it suitable for riders of all ages.
Can I bring my dog on mountain bike trails in Akron?
Many trails in the Akron area, particularly those within Summit Metro Parks and Cuyahoga Valley National Park, are dog-friendly, usually requiring dogs to be on a leash. The Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail is a popular choice for riders with dogs. Always check specific park regulations before heading out.
What natural attractions can I see along the mountain bike trails in Akron?
While mountain biking, you can encounter several natural attractions. The region is home to Cuyahoga Valley National Park, where you might find highlights like Ledges Overlook, the stunning Blue Hen Falls, and Ice Box Cave. You can also ride past lakes such as Summit Lake and Kendall Lake.
What is the best time of year for mountain biking in Akron?
The best time for mountain biking in Akron is generally from spring through fall, when the weather is mild and trails are dry. Autumn offers particularly scenic rides with vibrant fall foliage. While some trails may remain open, winter conditions can make riding challenging due to snow and ice, so always check local trail conditions.
Are there any loop mountain bike trails in Akron?
Yes, several trails in Akron are designed as loops. The Hampton Hills Mountain Bike Area loop and the Bike & Hike Trail Loop are popular options that allow you to start and finish at the same point, providing a convenient riding experience.
Where can I find parking for mountain bike trails in Akron?
Parking is generally available at trailheads for major mountain biking areas. For instance, the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail has numerous access points with parking. Hampton Hills Metro Park and the East Rim Trail System in Cuyahoga Valley National Park also offer dedicated parking facilities. It's always a good idea to check specific park websites for detailed parking information.
What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about mountain biking in Akron?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the variety of terrain catering to different skill levels, and the well-maintained trail systems within both Cuyahoga Valley National Park and Summit Metro Parks.
Most popular attractions around Akron
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best MTB trails in other regions.
