Finwood Forest Park - Elyria, OH
Finwood Forest Park: A Natural Dog-Friendly Retreat in Elyria, Ohio
If you’re seeking a pet-friendly outdoor escape, Finwood Forest Park is a hidden gem among dog parks in Elyria, Ohio. Known for its beautiful, wooded trails, this park is a wonderful destination for dog owners who enjoy a more natural hiking experience with their four-legged companions. The park features scenic walking and hiking trails, a waterfall, a bridge, tunnels, and occasional wildflowers, making it an appealing spot for nature lovers and energetic pups alike.
While Finwood Forest Park allows dogs, it is not a traditional fenced-in dog park—pups must remain leashed during your adventures together. There are no playgrounds, benches, or paved paths, giving the park a peaceful, rustic atmosphere among the trees. Parking is available but can be tight, and the terrain includes narrow, sometimes muddy trails. With its tranquil setting and seasonal beauty, Finwood Forest Park is best suited for those seeking a classic outdoor hike and a dose of Elyria’s natural charm with their pet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Are dogs allowed at Finwood Forest Park? Yes, dogs are welcome at Finwood Forest Park, but they must be on a leash.
- Are there paved paths or fenced dog areas? No, the park features natural dirt trails rather than paved paths and does not offer a fenced-in dog area.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? The park is not easily accessible for those with mobility challenges due to narrow, uneven terrain and a large hill.
- Is there a place to park? Yes, there is a parking lot, but the entrance and lot are narrow and best suited for one car at a time.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? There are a few informal spots to sit and meditate, but no official benches or seating installations.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Finwood Forest Park offers several trails and connects with other local parks and trails in the area.
- Does the park get muddy after it rains? Yes, the park’s trails can become muddy and may require waterproof footwear after rainfall.
Reviews
Caution: This is more hiking then walking. I frequently drive by and have never gone to this park near home. Stopped by yesterday planning to check it out and walk a while. It is trails vs. pavement..looking very pretty. Unfortunately, I jumped a small creek and twisted my ankle so couldn’t continue. I’ll wear my hiking boots the next time I go exploring here.
Good walk if you can avoid the poison ivy, horrid smell, or the drunk rednecks peeing on trees everywhere. Found a cool tree though!
I like it because it has no swings for kids or seats to sit. It is just a park to walk amongst the trees. In the fall the autumn leaves can be beautiful. After a decent rain the little falls becomes a “mighty little” water falls. In the spring there are some wildflowers here and there. A nice place as it is.
Great walk. Meets up with park at Burns and Gulf. Waterfall. Bridge. Tunnel. Fun. Not easily accessible for handicap. Large hill to water and paths, narrow pathways and a few rain runs you have to step over.
Has a few nice spots to sit and meditate. But no actual benches. Some of the terrain is a bit narrow. And the parking lot entrance is one car at a time kind of narrow. Good for a short walk/hike, but trails are not always the easiest to follow.