I’m playing a bit of catch-up when it comes to my park series. I know that the Spree is almost over, but I wanted to make sure that I get all of these in before it ends.

O’Neil Woods was the second hike for this year’s Fall Hiking Spree developed by Summit Metro Parks. It’s one that I’ve done several times at this point, but this was the first time that I got through it alone.

Instead of a traditional hike where I power through the whole thing in 45 minutes to an hour, I spent some time reading “The Fire Next Time.” As the temperature began to drop and the sun hung low in the sky, I reflected on my role as a black women in America. I’ll save my revelations for another post in the future.

Before it got too late, I attempted to weave my way through the trail in a timely manner. I had completely forgotten that it a bit more of a rougher trek than a few of my usual haunts. This one is classified as “C” Basic, but “3” difficulty.

It’s a fairly primitive trail compared to something like Munroe Falls Meadow. I’ve tripped more than I care to admit and other than the stairs that slope downward, you don’t see too many actual structures that lead you forward.

As the sun inched its way closer to the horizon, I’m not too proud to admit that I panicked a little. I have a habit of exploring things alone, but I don’t think of the danger until after the fact. At some point during the hike, I remembered the scary clowns that have ben lurking in the woods across the nation and I had to decide if I was going to turn back or not. Well, by that point, I was half-way through, so I went full steam ahead.

In the end, it took me around an hour and a half to an hour and 45 minutes to get through the whole trail with the small reading break. It’s a beautiful hike that works it’s way down a pretty steep hill, crosses a road, wraps around towards a barn that I’m not sure is in use or not, runs along a small river, crosses the same road a little further down, and back up the hill from the other side. Towards the end, the trail gets quite a bit harder to follow due to people creating their own paths. You must pay very close attention, especially if it’s getting later in the evening because it can be easy to get confused at some spots.

Overall, it’s a great workout during the day or if you’re with friends. I’d recommend it, but be very aware of your surroundings if you’re alone.

O’Neil Woods

2550 Martin Rd.
Akron, OH 44333

Previous Hikes

Springfield Bog

Thanks for reading,