Trail Ratings

1=Easy

2=Moderate

3=Strenuous

Many parks exist due to the foresight of a few visionary individuals, including F.A. Seiberling. He donated more than 400 acres to expand Sand Run Metro Park. Land that he owned from 1920 to 1948 was purchased by Metro Parks in 1964 to become the Nature Realm.

Native son Seiberling founded Goodyear Tire & Rubber in 1898. The company produced bicycle and carriage tires and went on to capture the automobile tire business.

Seiberling's interests went well beyond tires. He helped form the original Akron Metropolitan Park District and was a member of the Board of Park Commissioners from 1924 to 1935.

Today, the Nature Realm is a special-use area that has been set aside for the study and enjoyment of nature. For the protection of this park and the safety and enjoyment of other visitors, please follow these simple guidelines:

1. Dogs are not permitted at the Nature Realm.
2. Bicycles are only permitted in the parking lot. Racks are provided.
3. Rollerblading, jogging and other active sports are not permitted at the Nature Realm, but may be enjoyed in other parks.
4. Please remain on designated trails and walkways. Do not climb trees and other structures.
5. Please refrain from picking flowers, walking in garden beds and collecting plants.
6. Professional photography and wedding ceremonies are not permitted at the Nature Realm.

The 104-acre Nature Realm includes a 10,000-square-foot visitors center, several gardens, observation decks, two ponds, hiking trails and a tall-grass prairie. View the green features that were added during the 2009-10 renovation.