Birding at Summit Lake can be spectacular, especially during spring and fall migration. Since the neighborhood can be borderline for safety, caution and attention to your surroundings is recommended. The east side access is from Lake Shore Boulevard and is the more concerning side and has street parking only. The west side access is from Summit Lake Boulevard and is the less concerning side, where there is a new nature center with public parking and restrooms. There is a paved trail around the lake and also access to the nearby towpath trail. There is also a parking lot at 380 West Crosier Street just northwest of the lake off Manchester Road near the baseball fields with an easy walk down to the lake.

Highlights: most species of migrating waterfowl, including occasional White-winged Scoter, Red-necked Grebe, and Tundra Swan

Summit Lake is located at 380 West Crosier Street in Akron’s 9th ward. Situated on approximately 76.8 acres, the park itself is located south of South Street, west of Lakeshore Boulevard, and east of Summit Lake Boulevard. A portion of the park sits along the north side of the lake and a small area adjacent to Margaret Park Elementary School. Summit Lake Park is adjacent to the Summit Lake housing division of the Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority, which is located immediately to the south of the lake.