Written by: Larissa McVicker
Take a moment with me, I promise it will be worth it. Take a deep breath in, and let it out slowly. Now close your eyes and try again. That, my friend, is the soul refueling breath of fresh, summer air. Feel it deep in your lungs, calming your mind. Summer has begun to enter every corner of our world and I am so excited. The birds are singing in the trees and the baby geese are waddling near the river. I love it, every moment of warm sunshine winking through the trees as the flowers bloom.
In Lucas County, Ohio, we are blessed to have a thriving Metroparks system. “A metropark within 5 miles of every Lucas County resident” has been their mantra for several years. It is a goal they can achieve, and one that my family truly benefits from. In my town, the metropark is an easy mile and a half from my house. On a warm day, or let’s be honest-even a cloudy day, we grab our bikes and head down to Farnsworth Park and the TowPath Trail.
History of Farnsworth Park
As we enter the park, we make a stop by the Interurban bridge. Historically the area, known as Roche De Bout, is marked by a large rock and was used as a meeting spot and landmark for Native Americans, European Explorers and armies. Roche De Bout means “rock of beef’ or ‘buffalo”. The interurban bridge was built over the rock and used for a myriad of reasons, including a commuter rail line. Currently, the bridge is no longer in use by humans however, geese, heron and ducks call it home.
The beauty of the park
As you bike up the trail, evidence of river animals dot the sides. Beavers make their home in the Maumee River and the trees quickly give away their territory. Shavings and teeth carvings are seen frequently and though we’ve tried to be very quiet, we have yet to see a beaver near the shore! Chipmunks, rabbits and squirrels are always around, chirping and running through the woods on the side of the trail and up the trees. Trees line the path and provide nice shade cover in the heat of summer. The flowering trees are in full bloom providing a beautiful landscape. Within the park are unobtrusive signs, noting the various wildlife and flora that thrive at Farnsworth Metropark.
The path of the trail is a mix of dirt and paved concrete, always well maintained and clear. Runners, walkers and bikers use the trail with courteousness and respect. The Maumee river is a pleasant sound, with islands scattered throughout and several docks are available for fishing or simply sitting to watch the river’s activity. There are also two shelter houses at Farnsworth park with bathrooms and rooms to rent for events.
Fun on the playground!
Next, we arrive at the playground, with whimsical turtles, spiders and herons to climb. The tunnel under the slides is a favorite for all ages. While the kids play, I take out my book and sit on one of the benches next to the play area. There are trees clustered around as well but a blanket is hard to bring on a bike to spread underneath the trees and sit. I soak in the quiet river sounds and the laughter of children as I read. After swinging and running around, it’s snack time. We pull out our water bottles and bags of snacks. Eating outside feels luxurious.
As we eat, we look around and take in the sights. A kayak concession stand, operated in partnership with Mercy Health, is also located at the playground. During the summer, it is a popular place to rent a kayak and float down the river. If you have a boat of your own, there is a public boat dock less than a quarter mile down the trail!
Typically, my kids make the trek to the playground on their bikes to play before turning around and heading home. On ambitious days, we’ve biked all the way to Bend View metropark. It is approximately two and a quarter miles from the playground, so it is a long round trip from our house! Bend View is infamous for a 90 degree curve in the river, the ‘best view’ of the Maumee River. It is worth the trip! For those not wanting to bike or walk the TowPath to get there, you can drive down Route 24 where there is a small parking lot available.
Time to head home
After our snack, we leave the playground to make the trek back home. Going home is uphill-literally. Despite our tired legs, our bodies are energized from being outside in the sun and fresh air. We peddle strongly uphill, the kids making a goal to bike further up the hill than they did last time. Sometimes they make it, other times they don’t and we decide it is a good goal for next time! Tired and happy, we pull into our driveway. Another park afternoon accomplished!
Lucas County Metroparks are a gem in the Toledo area. We have visited most of them and each one has its own unique elements. Check out their website to learn more and find one to visit when you’re in town! We love travel and day trips and we are always looking for new activities.
What is one of your favorite things to do in your neighborhood? If we are out your way, maybe we’ll check it out! In the meantime, Get Outside Yourself!
About the author: Larissa is a Vermont transplant currently living in NW Ohio, married to her college sweetheart, raising two really cool kids, dog mom to the gentle giant, Loki, and an avid runner and park goer. She loves reading, writing, gardening, all things outdoors and a perfectly steeped cup of English tea. Larissa uses her creativity, skills and variety of interests in her day job as a school counselor and is an aspiring copywriter. For more Midwest fun, fluffy Great Pyrenees pictures, and baking tips, follow her on Instagram!