Whether you're a beginner runner or an experienced racer, Toledo's Metroparks offer some of the best running routes in the region. With miles of scenic trails, riverfront paths, and wooded landscapes, each park provides a unique experience for runners of all levels. No matter where you live in Lucas County, a Metropark is within five miles of home. With 19 Metroparks and more than 200 miles of trails open daily from 7 a.m. until dark year-round, the Toledo region offers running routes for everyone—from those just starting out to seasoned marathon runners. One of the best parts about these parks is that there is no admission fee and they all offer something different.
GLASS CITY RIVERWALK
The newest edition is the Glass City Riverwalk. Now open on both sides of the downtown Toledo riverfront, it has become a popular destination for runners and cyclists alike, with group runs, rides, and special events being held their regularly. With numerous playground and events, the Glass City Metropark has very quickly become a key part of the Toledo Mini Marathon and 10k with participants enjoying post race celebrations in Market Hall.
The newest edition is the Glass City Riverwalk. Now open on both sides of the downtown Toledo riverfront, it has become a popular destination for runners and cyclists alike, with group runs, rides, and special events being held their regularly. With numerous playground and events, the Glass City Metropark has very quickly become a key part of the Toledo Mini Marathon and 10k with participants enjoying post race celebrations in Market Hall.
SECOR METROPARK
Out near Sylvania and Berkey, Secor has numerous paths that connect to Wiregrass lake and numerous shelters for events. With both pavement and trails, it makes another great running option.
OAK OPENINGS METROPARK
One of the largest of the local Metropark’s and home to the nation’s only public treehouse village, Oak Openings offers not just paths for movement but also opportunities for recreation. There are numerous trails for running, walking, and biking on dirt and pavement. With the Wabash Cannonball Trail running through the park, Oak Openings offers runners plenty of distance to get their miles in. After, enjoy a brew or coffee at the Wheelhouse at Earnest Brew Works. Want to enjoy a staycation? Check out the Cannaley Treehouse Village.
One of the largest of the local Metropark’s and home to the nation’s only public treehouse village, Oak Openings offers not just paths for movement but also opportunities for recreation. There are numerous trails for running, walking, and biking on dirt and pavement. With the Wabash Cannonball Trail running through the park, Oak Openings offers runners plenty of distance to get their miles in. After, enjoy a brew or coffee at the Wheelhouse at Earnest Brew Works. Want to enjoy a staycation? Check out the Cannaley Treehouse Village.
WILDWOOD METROPARK
The entrance to Wildwood is just off of Central Avenue offering both pavement and soft surface options to get your miles in. You can cross the tracks to hop on the University Parks Trail which can take you to University of Toledo or out to Sylvania. The loop in the park allows to enjoy the sights of the Manor House or head up to the Ward Pavilion and Schoolhouse. The red and orange trails offer a low impact reprieve from hard surfaces. Wildwood provides many connections on feet or bike to explore. One of the races you can find that uses this park is the Happy Trails 5k on Fathers day. Running past the Manor House it shows off the parks beauty while engaging the community.
The entrance to Wildwood is just off of Central Avenue offering both pavement and soft surface options to get your miles in. You can cross the tracks to hop on the University Parks Trail which can take you to University of Toledo or out to Sylvania. The loop in the park allows to enjoy the sights of the Manor House or head up to the Ward Pavilion and Schoolhouse. The red and orange trails offer a low impact reprieve from hard surfaces. Wildwood provides many connections on feet or bike to explore. One of the races you can find that uses this park is the Happy Trails 5k on Fathers day. Running past the Manor House it shows off the parks beauty while engaging the community.
SWAN CREEK METROPARK
Out on Airport Highway, Swan Creek provides a great 5 mile loop within the park for walking and running. While Toledo may be considered flat, you can find some elevation within to park to challenge your legs and plenty of green space for other outdoor activities.
Out on Airport Highway, Swan Creek provides a great 5 mile loop within the park for walking and running. While Toledo may be considered flat, you can find some elevation within to park to challenge your legs and plenty of green space for other outdoor activities.
SIDECUT METROPARK
Head out to Maumee and explore the Maumee River at Side Cut Metroaprk. You can park on the river side and run along the Maumee event crossing the Conant Street bridge into Perrysburg or take the path towards Monument Hill. Those who have run the Churchill’s Half Marathon are familiar with the uphill in the last two miles of the race. After Monument Hill, you can access the Wabash Cannonball Trail or run loops at the Fallen Timbers Battle Field Metropark. Whether you stay in the park or explore, Side Cut provides the perfect path to enjoy the sights.
Head out to Maumee and explore the Maumee River at Side Cut Metroaprk. You can park on the river side and run along the Maumee event crossing the Conant Street bridge into Perrysburg or take the path towards Monument Hill. Those who have run the Churchill’s Half Marathon are familiar with the uphill in the last two miles of the race. After Monument Hill, you can access the Wabash Cannonball Trail or run loops at the Fallen Timbers Battle Field Metropark. Whether you stay in the park or explore, Side Cut provides the perfect path to enjoy the sights.
