Features:
Located 20 miles south of Toledo in Waterville, this series of parks along Maumee River is a worth-it destination for running. The centerpiece is the 9.5 mile Towpath Trail, which follows the remains of the Miami and Erie Canal along the Maumee River, connecting Farnsworth, Bend View, and Providence Metroparks. It’s the best bet for a longer, off-road waterfront run in the Toledo area.
The Towpath Trail is a mainly crushed gravel surface. The northeast end is at Farnsworth Metropark. Follow this waterfront trail for 2.2 miles (also part of the Buckeye Trail, marked with blue blazes) for 2.2 miles to the Bend View overlook, and then continue for another 6.1 miles to Providence Metropark. There are views of the water, and also nice trees and shade, in season. Our favorite section is in the area of Providence Metropark, where there are particularly good views of the dam and an old mill.
Additional Trails: In Providence Metropark, there’s the 2.25 mile River Bluff Trail loop.
Pro Tip: Enjoy a post-run beverage at the Wild Side Brewing Company in Grand Rapids Park, near the dam.
- Towpath is up to 9.5 miles (15.2 km) one-way
- Fairly Flat
- North end of Towpath Trail is Farnsworth Metropark; South end is Providence Metropark.
- Towpath trailheads and parking in each of the parks
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