Parkway Jogging Trail to Dogwood Trail loop
Parkway Jogging Trail to Dogwood Trail loop
3.4
(5)
57
runners
Parkway Jogging Trail to Dogwood Trail loop
01:21
12.3km
180m
Running
The Parkway Jogging Trail to Dogwood Trail loop offers a dynamic jogging experience, blending the smooth, winding paths alongside the Sand Run stream with the more rugged, hilly sections of the Dogwood Trail. You'll traverse diverse landscapes, from peaceful wooded areas with towering forests to cool, shady ravines where hemlocks and ferns thrive, and even an open field on the Dogwood Trail. In spring, keep an eye out for vibrant wildflowers like large-flowered trilliums and bloodroot, adding splashes of color to your run.
This moderate 7.7-mile (12.3 km) loop, with its 578 feet (176 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 21 minutes to complete. The trail is part of Sand Run Metro Park and is accessible year-round, with parts of the Parkway Jogging Trail even plowed in winter. It's a multi-use path that's also dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your leashed companion along for the journey.
Beyond its natural beauty, Sand Run Metro Park holds historical significance, once serving as a campsite for Indigenous peoples, with Portage Path being an important Indigenous trail. The park is also a haven for wildlife, home to various squirrels, owls, and woodpeckers, with red-tailed hawks often soaring overhead. For those seeking accessible options, a one-mile (round trip) section from the Old Portage Area is designed for wheelchairs and strollers.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
7.59 km
Dogwood Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
9.72 km
Parkway Jogging Trail, Sand Run Metro Park
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
12.3 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
8.24 km
2.33 km
1.42 km
291 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
8.74 km
1.67 km
1.09 km
598 m
123 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (300 m)
Lowest point (240 m)
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Weather
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Today
Thursday 16 July
31°C
21°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it typically take to jog the Parkway Jogging Trail to Dogwood Trail loop?
The loop is approximately 12.3 kilometers (7.6 miles) long and generally takes about 1 hour and 21 minutes to complete at a jogging pace. This duration can vary based on your fitness level and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.
Is this loop suitable for beginners?
While the loop is rated as 'moderate' due to its varied terrain, it is considered suitable for a range of fitness levels. The Parkway Jogging Trail section is relatively flat and accessible, while the Dogwood Trail adds a challenging, hilly component. It's a good option if you're looking for a varied workout.
What is the terrain like on this loop?
The terrain is quite varied. The Parkway Jogging Trail offers mostly paved or hard-packed, winding paths alongside the Sand Run stream. In contrast, the Dogwood Trail is more rugged, exploring shady valley and ridge-top terrain with several up-and-down inclines, including a notable ascent to the North Hawkins Area sled hill.
What kind of scenery and wildlife can I expect?
You'll experience picturesque scenery, transitioning from the stream-side path of the Parkway Jogging Trail to the wooded valleys and ridge-top views of the Dogwood Trail. Sand Run Metro Park is known for its cool, shady ravines, hemlocks, ferns, and seasonal blooms like trilliums in spring. Keep an eye out for red-tailed hawks, various owl species, pileated woodpeckers, and squirrels.
What is the best time of year to jog this loop?
Spring is excellent for viewing wildflowers like large-flowered trilliums. The park's cool, shady ravines make it pleasant during warmer months. Even in winter, parts of the Parkway Jogging Trail are plowed for year-round access, offering a unique experience.
Are there any permits or fees required to use Sand Run Metro Park?
No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required to access Sand Run Metro Park or its trails, including this loop. It's open for public enjoyment.
Is the Parkway Jogging Trail to Dogwood Trail loop dog-friendly?
Yes, this loop is dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to help keep the park enjoyable for everyone.
Where can I park to access the trailhead?
The starting point for this loop is conveniently located next to a parking lot. Specific parking areas are available within Sand Run Metro Park, often near the Old Portage Area or other access points for the Parkway Jogging Trail.
Does this loop connect with other trails?
Yes, this route intersects with several other paths within Sand Run Metro Park. You'll find sections that overlap with the Buckeye Trail (Akron), Nuthatch Trail, and Seneca Trail. The park also has connections to the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail.
What are the main highlights along the route?
The primary highlights of this loop are the two named trails themselves: the popular Parkway Jogging Trail, Sand Run Metro Park, known for its accessibility and stream-side path, and the more challenging Dogwood Trail, which offers a good workout and scenic ridge-top views after its initial climb.
What's a good strategy for tackling the Dogwood Trail's challenging sections?
The Dogwood Trail begins with a rather steep incline. A good strategy is to conserve energy for this initial climb. Once you're past the steepest part, the trail mostly evens out through the woods before dropping back down, though it does feature several more up-and-down inclines throughout its course.
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