There are plenty of ways to enjoy recreation on the water in the National Heritage Area. Visit the "What's in the Area" page to see all of the great locations.

Lake Erie

Lake Erie offers a great deal of fun activities for all ages to enjoy. Whether you are interested in a leisurely cruise, kayaking or you want to try your hand at stand up paddle boarding, Lake Erie is the perfect place.

Cuyahoga & Tuscarawas Rivers

On the northern end of the Ohio & Erie Canalway National Heritage Area, the Cuyahoga River was one of the historic sources of the Ohio & Erie Canal, and a great way to explore the region's industrial history. Further south, the Ohio & Erie Canal merges into the Tuscarawas River. Both rivers offer a variety of options for those wishing to traverse the National Heritage Area by water.

Summit Lake 

Summit Lake served as the summit (highest point) along the Ohio & Erie Canal. Today, Summit Lake Park is being revitalized as part of the Akron Civic Commons initiative to provide and encourage enhanced recreational opportunity. Boating is permitted on the lake, and kayak users can travel north on the canal to Exchange Street and south to Nesmith Lake and Barberton. 

Portage Lakes

Part of the Portage Lake water system lies within the National Heritage Area and is accessible to visitors and residents alike. The Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail travels past Summit Lake in southern Akron and Nesmith Lake on the northern edge of Portage Lakes State Park. For more information about the park, visit the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

Ohio & Erie Canal

At the Canal Fulton Canalway Center, you can get a feel for the impact of the historic canal by taking a ride on a replica canal boat. This is the only place in the Canalway to experience the canal by boat.