Portage Lakes State Park

        Portage Lakes is a 411-acre state park located near Akron, Ohio. This park offers a variety of different landscapes and activities that attract many visitors year round. Boating, swimming, hiking, and fishing are some of the many popular attractions here at the several different lakes that make up the state park.
       I have had many experiences here at Portage lakes, and have always found myself going back again and again. From eating at the restaurants surrounding the lake, to playing on the unique disc golf course with my dad, Portage lakes has yet to disappoint. The disc golf course is fairly popular, and is very notable for fun and challenging holes. One of my favorite outdoor experiences has been kayaking on the lake during a quiet morning and witnessing a huge array of wildlife. Whatever your outdoor interest may be, you will probably find it here at Portage lakes.

       A popular hiking trail found here in the park is the Shoreline Trail in which measures 5 miles long. From the name, the trail obviously is near the shore of the lake and wraps around part of it. This trail provides great views of the lake, and is decently marked with several signs directing the path. The terrain is fairly mild, and can easily be walked without a problem. Throughout the year, the wildlife is constantly changing, adapting to the seasons. Hiking through here at the very beginning of spring was awesome to see plants and trees in the very beginning stages of blooming. As the year progresses, you will see an overabundance of growth, and in the fall the colors are absolutely beautiful.

             The Shoreline Trail is a great hiking path if you are looking to get outside for some exercise. The trail is not challenging, yet can get really muddy after a rainfall so adequate shoes are still advised. Hikers can come across multiple different views including walking through the disc golf course, walking along the public beach, seeing different areas of the lake, and walking along the outside edge of Portage lakes State Park. Overall, this is a great 5 mile hike if you just wish to enjoy the outdoors. The dynamic park and beautiful scenery is what brings people here and I can't wait to go back!