A beautiful park I didn't know existed until a recent visit to the area. Be sure to check out the centrally-located Visitor's Center to get lots of handy info, trail maps, a visit to the gift shop, and even pet a friendly snake!! I decided to hike the Gorge Trail, which was very do-able, and ambitiously hoped to even follow the trail around the lake. Oooooops... There is NO LAKE, for the moment, anyway, as they've emptied it for maintenance (!!) Wasn't able to hike around the (dry) lake, as I think that trail was closed, but no worries, I headed back on the Gorge Trail (took a zillion pictures along the way, it's GORGEous!!) and made it back just in time to attend the Hispanic Festival taking place right outside the visitor's center. Looks like there's LOTS of community activities offered here, and it's a GREAT area resource!! Beautiful scenery, some waterfalls apparently, once the rain returns, picnic areas and multiple fun playgrounds for the kiddies, nicely marked trails, TONS of community events, and so much more!! Don't miss it if you're in the area!! read more

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This park is super cute yet super simple. Our favorite area to go to is the splash pad with the park attached you're also able to walk down from the park to the lake. the a walk around the lake makes it super nice and a great day out. During the summer, you can access the ice cream and snack bar so you can truly make this a great lunch outing for you and your kids read more

Sharon Woods Park - Parks Near Me - Sharonville, Ohio

We stopped here briefly while we were in town to get our kiddo out of the house and burn some energy. The park is pretty expansive, with ample parking. The one thing I love about the Ohio Parks and Recreation system is that they tend to take great pride and careful attention to their parks. Sharon Woods is no exception. We entered into the park, parked our car, and headed over to the playground. I will note the one downside of this particular side of the park is other then shaded places to eat, there wasn't any shade on the playground, which is pretty problematic when it's over 90 degrees and the sun is beating down on you. This leads to playground equipment to get blistering hot. So be mindful of that. The playground equipment was in great condition, but very hot, and my kiddo could only last about 30 minutes until he was worn out. I wish they had some canopies or awnings over the playground. They did have a few spray sections, where kids could cool off, which was a nice touch. They also had a little "creek" section, where you could cool your feet off. When you walk down the stairs you're greeted by a body of water with paddle boats, which looked super fun. Unfortunately it was so hot, we decided to pass. I wish we had a bit more time to explore, but this was a quick pit stop on a very short trip. Pros: -Expansive park -Ample parking -New playground equipment -Water features/splash pad -Paddleboat area Cons: -no shade on the playground (equipment gets SUPER hot, so be careful and make sure you apply a ton of sunscreen) Tips: Bring lots of sunscreen and some towels if you kiddos decide to get on the splash pad. read more

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I've been here twice now, once in winter and once in summer, and the park has a lot to offer. Great 2.6 mile multi purpose loop around the lake, 0.6 mile fitness trail, picnic shelters, and a full visitor center with restrooms. Lots to offer for solo hikers or families. I've not played the golf course bit it looks nice as well. Check it out you won't be disappointed. read more

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This place is amazing! We live up by Lebanon and were looking for a new place to go adventure with the pup. We got in dog friendly parks and found this gem.I used to work a couple miles away and had no idea this place was here, so big and so well maintained. We walked from the main Visitors center, across the gorge trail and the around the 0pond. Pretty long walk for our 13lv schoodle but with the shade, the breeze and how smooth the trails are she made it like a champ. I guess there is usually a car pass needed but the day we went there was no park attendant in the little building at the entrance so that was nice. Free is always a nice bonus. We will for sure go back. Such a beautiful park. People were nice. read more

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****only regarding the Holiday in Lights show during winter time**** Though the price may be cheaper than other light shows in the area, you can definitely tell the quality is comparable/ even beneath the price. During Covid, there aren't that many socially-distant activities for the whole family. Taking the time to go to a mediocre light show really put a damper on an otherwise fun evening. The issue for me was the long wait times (1+ hours on a Saturday night at 8pm) and then to drive into a light show where most of the light fixtures have malfunctioning or broken lights. The fixtures themselves looked like they were from the 80s and have kept being re-used since then. The light show itself only had three "sections" and took 15 min to get through..... Needless to say I will not be back, and I would recommend going to another light show in the area even if it is a bit more expensive. read more

Sharon Woods Park - Parks Near Me - Sharonville, Ohio

We love coming here for hikes with our dog and friends! It is well kept, there is plenty of parking, there are indoor restrooms, and best of all is that there are sooo many different trails to choose from... different lengths, different scenery, different types (paved vs. dirt). You do have to pay to get in and park, so be prepared for that - they take cash or card. They have an annual pass option that we may do next year, but it is so close to the end of the year and starting to get cold so both times we went this fall we just paid for the day. Highly recommend coming here for beautiful views, great trails, and some fresh air and exercise! There were also a TON of families taking professional photos here, which is a great idea if you're in the market for that! We will continue coming here for hikes. read more

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I think our first visit here was last May ... well fall is an excellent time to come. Yesterday I went with my 88 yr old mom who cant do rigid trails anymore. We walked about looking at the fall and did the gorge trail to the lake. She was exhausted so we walked back to our car and drove to the lake. She wanted to rest in the car and I did some walking around the lake ..the fall colors and reflections on the water were so beautiful. I didnt do all of the harbor trail but that will be my next thing on next trip there. Our first visit in May covid had no one at front booth so entrance was free ... now its 5 for non residents. Our first visit all the bathroom were locked and porta potties were your only option... flush bathrooms are open and they were cleanish..playground equipment and picnic shelters were roped off closed but now they are open and usable. Can't believe we've lived 30 minutes away for over 20 years and just now discovered it. Love that there are trails that are paved and easy enough for my mom to walk with me. I'm taking a break from working right now. Im only 53 so very early to consider retirement...I may go back after the covid thing settles down. Anyway I'm enjoying this time off and trying to make the most of this gorgeous weather. read more

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We came here for the first time recently and were pleasantly surprised!! Fall is my favorite season, and mid-October it is beautiful!! We found a small parking area not too far from the paddleboat dock. It was about an hour before sunset, so it wasn't too crowded, but you are sharing the path around the lake with runners and bikers, so you do have to pay attention. The path is also not flat; there are a few somewhat hilly areas. Some people may also appreciate the mileage markers on the ground to know how far you've trekked (almost 3 miles). The trees were beautiful colors, and there were many people taking pictures. Some stopped on benches just to take in the view. The temperature was also perfect, a crisp autumn evening. This made for a wonderful walk around the lake! read more

Sharon Woods Park - Parks Near Me - Sharonville, Ohio

WOW! I cannot believe that I live within 20 minutes of this park and haven't been here as often as I should! My mom and I were looking for something to do that was outdoors for my birthday. We decided to check out Sharon Woods! I have been to this park several times when I was a kid. They have an amazing playground that any kid would love. They also have paddle boats and perhaps canoes or kayaks to rent when the weather is nice. I definitely have fond memories of playing on that playground or riding in a paddle boat. What makes this park so nice is that there is a beautiful, large lake in the middle of the park. There are several trails and paths to take for a nice adventure. There is about a 2 1/2 mile paved path around the lake. I saw an older group of men running, as well as some older people walking the path. It's definitely nice for wheelchairs or strollers due to the paved path. I didn't venture off the 2 1/2 mile loop, but I definitely saw some trails that would be great to trail run. I can't wait to go back and explore! We also saw some people fishing on the lake. It seemed like a perfect spot, as it was not too secluded but quiet enough to be able to catch some fish. There were tons of turtles sitting on logs in the lake. They were quite entertaining! There was even a sighting of an albino squirrel. Great park just off of the 275 loop in Sharonville. read more

Here listening to Jazz music. There are lots of trails to explore. They also do drivethru Christmas light village and exhibit. There is also a golf course nearby in a different entrance but part of the park. read more

A must see in the Cincinnati area are the 'Holiday in Lights' at Sharon Woods Park. Within the comfort of your own car, (this is especially important to me and my family during COVID-19 times and social distancing) you will drive through the magically holiday themed decorated park. My hubby and I went last weekend. We purchased our ticket online for $15 (per car), but you can also purchase a ticket at the park entrance. This year the park does not accept cash- so make sure to bring your debit/credit card. The line was, what I thought, quite long but moved quickly. I think we waited less than 10 min to get to the entrance where staff scanned the barcode on my cell, asked us to turn off the head lights, Happy Holidays- and off we went. We slowly drove through the park and truly enjoyed the lights while listening to Christmas music. My absolute favorite is "the tunnel" with its light show. A must see. read more

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I went here with a buddy of mine since it's the closest park/trail to us. It's about 25-30 minutes north of Cincinnati so not far off from the city. Oddly enough, it doesn't even seem that close to major urban areas. There are a few waterfalls but they are about 4 feet in height. I guess the pictures were a bit deceiving. All in all, a peaceful spot to hear the water running and maybe enjoy some food in the park. There are plenty of spots to sit and picnic and even a trail (that we didn't go on). read more

Sharon Woods Park - Parks Near Me - Sharonville, Ohio

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During stay-at-home orders, Sharon Woods was bustling with walkers, joggers, even families flying kites. The motor vehicle permit is waived through June 1, 2020. Playgrounds, grills, picnic tables, basketball courts, and the canoe and paddle boat rentals were all shut down during our visit, (and remain shutdown.) The boathouse and Harbor Snack Bar open June 1. Trails and park benches are open throughout. There are numerous walking trails, including a 2.6 mile multi-purpose trail around the lake, a fitness trail and even a waterfall to take in, and just space to roam on a nice day. On June 1, at least one restroom will be open. Until then, restrooms remain closed. read more

A huge park with so much to do. Ample parking and great trails for all ages. Lots of bugs today, don't go after it rains you will get eaten alive like I did. I came with a girlfriend and her daughter (in a stroller) and two dogs. We did more of the scenic paved trails and not hiking ones. There are lots of other activities offered like boating, golf, fishing. This is one of the largest parks in Cincinnati. There is a visitor center if you have any questions and want to rent out one of the shelters for a picnic or party. I come here often and will be back. read more

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I already loved Sharon Woods Park, but have to add how thrilling it was for them to open up the park to free public ice-skating on the lake last week when it was frozen over! It's kind of mind-boggling to think that we were actually skating on this lake that we have enjoyed for decades! Then if you could imagine with your mind's eye how gorgeous it looked at dusk with the light pink and purple sky back-lighting the trees!!! It was an exhilarating experience! read more

Sharon Woods Park - Falls from the creek. I love the sound of rustling water. - Parks Near Me - Sharonville, Ohio

Hands down this is the best park in the area: Large lake with boat rental Awesome paved trail around the lake through surrounding woods Play area with water springs for the kiddies Great picnic areas for summer bbqs Shelters for rental to host events Golf course It's well kept and clean. There's always people walking, running and biking around :) read more

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This is the first park in the Hamilton County Park District, having opened back in 1932, and pieces of history are sprinkled throughout. The history is available on their website, and for any interested in that sort of thing, it is quite a neat read. The park includes a number of works projects from the efforts to get Americans working again during the Great Depression - work that still can be appreciated today in the form of features like the preparation for the golf course and the dam that created Sharon Lake. For park amenities today, Sharon Woods offers something for just about anyone. This is a good-sized place with plenty of green space and Sharon Lake for water activities. There is a very nice paved 2.6 mile multipurpose trail that travels around the lake, and offers a good place for hiking, running, biking, etc. The park is pet friendly too. There are plenty of picnic tables around the park, plus some shelters, and if you can't find parking near Sharon Harbor, head further in - there is a lot more available around, plus more restroom facilities. For an extra fee, there is also a golf course and the Heritage Village Museum (a living history museum that shows how life was in the area in the 19th century). A nice newer feature is the visitor center, which includes nature exhibits, a gift shop and an indoor playground for the under 12s (small extra cost to use the indoor one). Hours vary by season, so be sure to check on that in advance. Sharon Woods Gorge is a state preserve located inside of the park, and it can best be enjoyed by exploring the Gorge Trail located southwest of the dam. It is an easy hike through the woods that lets you enjoy the limestone gorge and creek that runs through it. There are multiple waterfalls, which can be viewed from overlooks, and there are a lot of fossils exposed. Sharon Harbor offers a variety of opportunities to enjoy water activities, including fishing and boating - there are a number of boats available for rental at the Boathouse including canoes, kayaks, paddleboats, and pontoon boats. Near the harbor is a snack bar and a playground, plus a section of water fun for kids. It's a popular play area and can get crowded during the summer months. A wonderful place! read more

I went to visit Sharon Woods on one of the crisp fall days we've been having. I started at the Sharon Center and ambled over to the trail head which has a really pretty dam-made waterfall flowing down to a stone bridge. It started off the trail with a bang and it certainly didn't disappoint from there. You pass a handful of other falls and rapids in the stream (and quite a few people, this is a busy park!) and end up at Sharon Lake. The trail itself is flat, wide and well traversed making for an easy stroll. Where it opens up to the lake, the path becomes paved and accessible all the way around the lake. Overall, a great park to go to for a peaceful, if not solitary, stroll. I can't speak to the boat rentals and playgrounds, but judging from the others using them, they're pretty popular! read more

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As far as parks go, this is Cincinnati metro's gem. There's ample parking. There's a concession stand selling typical American fare (hot dogs, chicken tenders, Icees). There's boats available for rent by the hour. There are several large bodies of water and diverse wildlife. Picnic areas, golf course, paved running/biking trail complete this park as a nature preserve between urban and suburban Cincinnati. read more

Great place for fishing and running. Renting boats and canoes is easy and very fun. Playgrounds are great quality as well.

This is an awesome park! It's always been my favorite. There's a golf course, Heritage Village museum (which is a pioneer village that is open for tours and open during a Civil War reenactment.), several play areas, a splash pad, indoor play area, paddle boat rentals, bike rentals, concession stand and plenty of trails to walk. The trail around the lake is paved and is 2.5 miles, with clear markers on the ground every 1/4 mile. The Gorge trail has some small waterfalls, carved out by glaciers millions of years ago. The creek bed was always a fun place to take my children to walk along. The splash pad is a big hit with the kids and is in the harbor area near the lake, off of the Kemper Rd. entrance. The indoor play area, off of the Reading Rd. entrance, has a treehouse that is my grandson's favorite. The upper area of the treehouse has a make-believe general store, stage coach area, jail, a well and an eagle's nest. There's lots of tubes for sliding back down to the ground floor. It's a bit pricey to enter (in my opinion) at $4.50 a child. But they offer a pass that is $26 for the whole year. That's a bargain if you come often, like we do. For $42 a year you can get into all the splash pads in Hamilton County parks for free (some charge) and the indoor play areas. That's the deal I paid for. The only draw back is that they only give 1 card. So, for us, it has to be kept in my grandson's backpack so that it's with him and can be used all around town. That's a drawback if a child visits with grandparents or has parents that don't live together. Glenwood Gardens has a card and 2 keychain cards for convenience. Something Sharon Woods should do also. Hamilton County Parks has a car sticker you can purchase each year for $10, which is what I do. That's a deal! Otherwise it's $3 a visit to get into the parks. The only draw back to this park is that there's been a lot of development in the surrounding areas over recent years and this park has become very, very busy. It can be difficult to find a parking spot, if at all. The splash pad can become way too packed with kids, many too old to be playing in the area, for young children to play safely. And a lot of time several of the water spouts are not working, causing many children to run though and play around just a few water spouts. It creates an issue. And the peacefulness of the park trails is not what it once was with all the noise. Also, the increased traffic of people means more dogs that owners are not cleaning up their mess. So, watch your step on the trails on busy weekend days. Overall, this is a wonderful park but if you're looking for a peaceful walk on the trails stick to weekdays during the school year. read more

Sharon Woods Park - Waterfall on the Gorge Trail. - Parks Near Me - Sharonville, Ohio

I had a rental cat and my sticker was in my other car. This troll wanted me to pay 5 to just walk in the park. I tried to explain and he was like nope 5 dollars he was rude very rude. I drove all the way there and I'm not paying 5 for a park pass that I already have. Then as I am turning around to leave he holds up the line so I waste another 20 minutes. My taxes should pay enough for me to walk in a park. Let's make the parks a business Trumpers. It's all about the money not humanity. read more

This park is a tranquil island set in a sea of sprawling, chaotic Sharonville. If you can ignore the hum from the interstate, you might just think that you've been transported miles from civilization. The serenity of Sharon Wood is really that engulfing. My favorite activity (after my first visit in years anyway) is to stroll along the 2.6 mile paved hike/bike trail that wraps around idyllic Sharon Lake. There are two short bridges the cross over the lake, allowing you adapt the length of your hike with ease. Within the confines of the park is the Heritage Village Museum, a preserved 19th century village that offers tours for a small fee. The Heritage Museum, as well as Sharon Woods Park, offers a variety of summer activities for the whole family, so be sure to check out their website to keep up-to-date. read more

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Sharon Woods is one of my favorite parks. Very peaceful. There are a lot of green trees. Nice trails and paved path. Beautiful lake and waterfall. Lots of things to do hiking, canoeing, have a picnic, go fishing, kid playground.. Also Holiday light is awesome! Love it here! read more

Sharon Woods Park - Lake and trail - Parks Near Me - Sharonville, Ohio

One of the most beautiful parks I have seen. I love the boats. Great place for a nature walk or jog. read more

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Nice park located in more urban surroundings. Nice open areas, picnic areas with shelters available to reserve if needed. Village set up right next to the creek with a walk path big. Plus creek has a small falls. read more

Hidden gem. I had been here for a holiday in lights 5k but never really explored the park other times. It's so close to me and I now regret that! Went for a husky meet up this weekend and saw what gorgeous waterfalls and hiking trails they have! So many options here for a nice outdoor getaway that's not far away! There's a small lake, paved trails, and they do cool free events! Check it out! read more

Sharon Woods Park - Hiking trails and waterfalls - Parks Near Me - Sharonville, Ohio

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Sharon Woods is a hidden gem of activities for kids. For $3 per visit or $10 annually, you can purchase a car pass that gives you access to a large pond with rental boats, a 5 mile paved walking/biking trail, and great creeking. But the best part is the amazing play areas. On the north end of the park, there is an animal-themed playground and splash park that is no extra charge outside the car permit. On the southwest side of the park, in the visitor center, there is an AMAZING indoor play space-- two stories of woodland themed tunnels and slides. It is handicap accessible with a wheelchair lift to the second level, and activities for kids ages 2-10. There is also a nature center in the same building with cool aquariums of fish and reptiles. The fee of $3 per child for this building is totally worth it, although I wish there was an annual or monthly pass for frequent visitors. read more

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There are streams, lakes and beautiful forests. It is a good place for family picnics. read more

Sharon Woods Park - Parks Near Me - Sharonville, Ohio

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It was a very nice walk with trees surrounding the path. It feels relaxing and fresh . Unfortunately the stream were dried due to not enough rain. Overall, I had a great time enjoying the walk. read more

Great park! Clean, well-maintained, and beautiful! The trees are very tall and close together, making the place shady and cool to hike. There are plenty of huge open places next to covered picnic table areas for cookouts. I noticed lots of people taking advantage of that on the Saturday I visited. The creek is charming and fun for the kids to play in. I saw at least two small waterfall areas that are great for a photo shoot or a peaceful afternoon of reading. The water is muddy and slow moving in other areas, but at the falls it's rapid and splashy enough for bugs to steer clear and loud enough to drown out the sounds of trains passing nearby. Plenty of parking and hiking trails, too. read more

Sharon Woods Park - Duckies hunting for food in the creek. Don't feed them! Man-made food does not process well in duck stomachs and can kill them. - Parks Near Me - Sharonville, Ohio

I am so sad that we just now discovered Sharon Woods Park because we could have been enjoying this place for so much longer! What a hidden gem! I paid for the day pass into the park and should have gone ahead and just gotten the year pass because this is going to be one of our go to places! We had limited time so we didn't get to experience the full park but here's what we did do. The two year old and I first walked through the free nature center. There we were able to get up close to local animals. Snakes, toads, fish, and real fossils that we were able to hold and learn about. They have a small reading area with coloring books. After that we paid the $3 fee to get into the indoor play area. So much to explore and space to run around in! J loved the ball pit the most. He had a blast crawling up the tunnels and obstacles to make it to the top of the treehouse. So much to work with for imaginative play with the jail, general store, and stable room. There is an elevator for people with disabilities to be able to also enjoy the top of the tree house! The gift shop was nice and had plenty of items for children and adults but it was all on the pricier side. ($28 for a pair of boot socks.) We ventures outside to play in the playground for a bit which could use some updating but still a lot of fun. We hope to visit before the snow hits us to try and find the waterfalls! read more

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Who doesn't love a park with waterfalls?! Beautiful park so close to home. Very well maintained and the trails are clearly marked. You can rent pontoons, kayaks, or canoes. There are a lot of places to picnic. Loved seeing the kids playing in the waterfalls by the Buckey Trail. The playgrounds were also very nice. Saw some people fishing too. We will have to go back with our poles. There's a $3 residents ($5 non resident) daily fee to get into Hamilton County Parks. Or, $10 annual ($15 non resident) fee. It's a small price to pay for a beautiful park. read more

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This may be my favorite of the Hamilton County Park. At a little over 700 acres, Sharon Woods has the space to offer something for everyone. Some highlights include hiking trails, waterfalls, boats, indoor (fee) and outdoor (free) play structures, classes and historical village. Details about the various holiday activities may be found on their website. The people at the visitor center/ Sharon Center are happy to answer questions. A beautiful park with picturesque waterfalls, and other landscape. Several photographers were out taking pictures of clients. read more

Sharon Woods Park - Parks Near Me - Sharonville, Ohio

Nice Place for rest and relax Especially in Autumn on nice day and blue sky :) read more

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Quite a few of my best childhood memories include Sharon Woods Park. The park surrounds a picturesque little lake that visitors can either admire, paddle-boat/canoe on, or fish in. I choose to paddle-boat, you can rent a four-seater for an hour at the boathouse for the low price of $5. Paddle-boating on a gorgeous spring or summer day at Sharon Woods is relaxing, fun, and it's an effective lower-body work-out as well! One of the high-lights at Sharon Woods is the huge playground that sits on a hill next to the lake. A massive blue elephant statute guards over the park, occasionally shooting spurts of water out of his trunk at the children playing there. The play area is large and features swings, monkey bars, and all kinds of other fun activities for kids. Parents will appreciate that the activity area features cushioned blue foam flooring, accidental spills off equipment won't result in trips to the ER. Sharon Woods also features a golf course and a nice hiking trail, along with a nature center that lets kids learn about the environment in a hands-on setting. You can buy an annual pass to gain entrance at Sharon Woods and every other park in the Hamilton Country Parks District for only $5. read more

Sharon Woods Park - Courtesy of the Website - Parks Near Me - Sharonville, Ohio

One of my favorite places. This is a great place to go for a walk. The paved trail around the perimeter of the lake is wooded, peaceful and beautiful. It is a 2.6 mile walk, with opportunities to cut in half or extend longer with auxiliary trails. The rough trail past the dam is also very nice with views of the stream. The park also has great picnic areas and an excellent play area for small children at the harbor. read more

This is a lovely park and worth the visit - but not worth the $8 price for out of county visitors. Here's a tip: google Martin's Barber Shop on Lebanon Rd. and turn down Zind Lane that runs next to the shop. Park your car and simply walk in! At that point you'll be right opposite Cummings cemetery so you can easily remember how to get back there. read more

Love this place! It's a huge park with a lot of hiking trails (though I've only really been on the Gorge Trail). The Gorge trail has a few waterfalls that you can climb down and play in. The one I usually go down to even has some fish in it. I saw a family catch 3-4 small ones while I was there this past week. Another part of Sharon Woods is the Harbor Park, where they have pedal boats and canoes for rental! We rented a 4 person pedal boat for an hour and it was only $11. The water is very mucky and green, but it's nice being out on the water with nature! We saw a lot of baby ducks and some geese and even a huge stork. There is also a playground near the lake where kids were in their swimsuits running around. Great family place! They also have a ton of open green grassy areas where families were grilling and having picnics. I'd definitely come back here to have a picnic and hang out. It's only $3 per car for parking or $10 for an entire season! It's also very beautiful in the fall. I remember that was my first visit here and I couldn't help squealing inside at how awesome it was. Don't miss out on this park! read more