Coal industrialist Hayward Kendall willed his private retreat, later named Virginia Kendall Park, to the people of Ohio following his death in 1927. The Civilian Conservation Corps built Kendall Lake in 1934-1935 by damming Salt Run. At the time Akron Metropolitan Park District (now Summit Metro Parks) managed the property. For years, people flocked here in the summer for the swimming beach and in the winter for the toboggan run and ice skating. Today’s national park visitors come to fish and enjoy nearby trails.

The paved path beyond the bulletin board leads to Kendall Lake Shelter and a fishing pier. Public restrooms with running water are available on the lower level of the shelter.

Trails start to the left of the bulletin board. The Lake Trail is a one-mile loop around the lake. It is a mostly flat trail with a dirt surface and some stairs to climb. The trail offers views of the lake and opportunities to enjoy plants and wetlands along its edge. You might find beaver activity and other signs of wildlife.

Cross Country Trail also begins to the left of the bulletin board. This 2.5-mile loop has a dirt surface and 160 feet of elevation change. Access Salt Run Trail near the dam along the Lake Trail. Salt Run is a 3.25-mile loop with a dirt surface and 160 feet of elevation change. Both trails wander through wooded ravines. Cross Country Trail also takes you through an old farm field that is becoming forest through natural succession. This trail is popular with cross country skiers who have the skill to handle hills.