Freedom Trail Phase IVa Opens in Akron
Summit Metro Parks has completed a paved path linking downtown Akron to the Portage Hike & Bike Trail.
Updated on Nov. 6, 2026 in Hiking
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Summit Metro Parks completed Freedom Trail Phase IVa, a paved path running from Mill Street to Buchtel Avenue in downtown Akron. The section connects the Freedom Trail with the Portage Hike & Bike Trail.
Why it matters
The completed segment links the University of Akron with Kent State University by trail, giving hikers and bikers a continuous route through the city. It is part of a multi-phase project for Akron residents who use the trail network for recreation and travel.
The four phases of the Freedom Trail measure 4.2, approximately 2, 1.8 and 1.4 miles, with construction beginning in 2011. Once all phases are complete the trail will run nearly 10 miles from the Portage County line in Tallmadge to the Towpath Trail in downtown Akron.
The players
Summit Metro Parks
Summit Metro Parks is the public park district that manages trails and green space across Summit County, Ohio.
University of Akron
The University of Akron is a public research university in Akron, Ohio, and a co-owner of the land along the trail corridor.
The details
The completed section runs from Mill Street to Buchtel Avenue and includes a new trailhead at Mill and Lincoln streets with a seasonal drinking fountain and a map kiosk. The trail runs alongside a railroad corridor on land owned by Metro Regional Transit Authority, the University of Akron and Summit Metro Parks.
Timeline
2011: Freedom Trail construction began.
November 6, 2026: Summit Metro Parks announced Phase IVa's completion.
Season Trajectory
Phase IVa extends the Freedom Trail network by linking it to the existing Portage Hike & Bike Trail, adding to a regional path system the county has been building. The next phase, IVb, is planned to connect the University of Akron to the Metro RTA Transit Center and the Towpath Trail.
Hikers and cyclists in Akron can now travel from Mill Street to Buchtel Avenue on a paved path that joins the Portage Hike & Bike Trail. The new trailhead at Mill and Lincoln streets offers a drinking fountain and a map to plan longer routes.
The takeaway
Use the new Mill Street trailhead to access the Portage Hike & Bike Trail for longer rides and walks. Check the trail map at the kiosk before heading out on the connected route.
What happens next
The next phase, IVb, will connect the University of Akron to the Metro RTA Transit Center and the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail near downtown Akron.
Further reading
Explore more local routes in the Hiking section for trails near Akron.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Cleveland.
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