Here, along the Towpath Trail, the Cascade Locks tell the story of Akron's early industry. The steepest section of the Ohio & Erie Canal was between Akron and the Little Cuyahoga River. In a single mile, 15 locks, or "steps," were necessary to enable boats to climb the Continental Divide. Locks 10 through 16 form the Cascade Locks Area.

The two buildings north of the parking lot and adjacent to Lock 15 are some of the oldest structures in Akron. The Mustill House and store, built between 1825 and 1850, served the local community and the people traveling the canal. The area was designated as National Historic District in 1992 and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

Present throughout the area are native wildflower species, flowers brought by immigrants from Europe, and weeds carried by man, horse and canal boat. The tree population reflects both invasive plants and native trees that are able to flourish in inner-city conditions. Birds seen in this area include robins, blue jays, sparrows, cardinals and red-tailed hawks.

Cascade Locks Park is being realized by a consortium of three entities: Cascade Locks Park Association, the City of Akron and Metro Parks, Serving Summit County. Currently, the area includes access to the towpath, which ends at Beech Street, and the Mustill Store, which includes displays that help explain why the area was important to both the Ohio & Erie Canal and the development of Akron. Eventually, the site will also include an outline of the footprint of Ferdinand Schumacher’s mill, an event area with a 35-foot stage, and more.