Metroparks of the Toledo Area: Part II

Maybe that should be entitled “Park I” since Side Cut Metropark was the city’s first. Though it had totally different offerings than Secor Metropark, it was just as interesting to explore.

The park is named for the former “side cut” extension of the Miami and Erie Canal, which was completed in 1842 to provide a water connection from the main line of the canal to the Maumee River and city of Maumee. It was two miles long with six limestone locks, three of which have been preserved.

Canal locks acted like elevators to raise and lower canal boats by changing the water levels. When the large wooden gates were closed, an opening in each gate (called a wicket) allowed water to flow into the lock. When the water was high enough, a canal boat could float to a higher elevation. The Maumee River was too shallow during the summer for the heavier river crafts traveling from Toledo and in 1850 the side cut extension was abandoned.

Today the Maumee River access of Side Cut Metropark makes it a destination for fishermen from around the country as walleye swim upriver to spawn; the spring run is the largest of its kind on the Great Lakes.

Interlaced with walking trails, the park is also home to wildlife observation areas and Silver Lake, which has tons of geese (and tons of goose poop!). An afternoon stroll was a great way to discover some of what the park had to offer.

I’m thoroughly impressed with this park system. What a wonderful way for Toledo to provide for and give back to its community. I look forward to visiting the city’s other Metroparks the next time I’m in the area.