Hikers, bikers and nature lovers alike are invited to enjoy the recently completed first phase of Lake Metroparks’ new Lakefront Trail
By Mimi Vanderhaven
The vast horizon of endless Lake Erie views is one of the many things that make this Great Lake so great. Basking in this awe-inspiring natural wonder has recently become easier and more accessible, thanks to the opening of the first phase of the new Lakefront Trail that skirts its shoreline. The public trail is an important step in a long-term effort to connect Lake County residents with the lakefront.
This ten-foot-wide, half-mile-long asphalt trail will ultimately be a two-mile-long trail that links Painesville Township Park and Fairport Harbor. The path features a number of stops and overlooks, benches and lighting to take in the views of Lake Erie.
Phase two will continue the trail westward, but first requires construction of a break wall. The break wall will be constructed in 2024 and the trail behind it in 2025.
“This trail is unlike anything else in our system and unlike anything else on the Great Lakes,” says Lake Metroparks Executive Director Paul Palagyi. “We are very excited for residents to get out and enjoy unobstructed views of Lake Erie.”
Creation of this lakefront trail is a success story for modern conservation efforts. The project brought together a wide range of public and private partners who recognized the national significance of providing public access to the shores of Lake Erie. Funding came from many federal, state and local agencies who worked in concert with Lake Metroparks to assemble what is destined to be one of the premier lakefront paths in the Great Lakes region.
“We are very thankful to our partners for their support of this project,” says Paul. “Their help allows us to continue enhancing connectivity among our parks and provides visitors with amazing access to our greatest natural resource—Lake Erie.”
Lake Metroparks annually provides more than four million visitors recreational and education experiences at diverse facilities across Lake County. With more than 60 miles of trails and 39 parks, there’s plenty to explore. Visit lakemetroparks.com for more information.