Hills & Dales MetroPark

Hills & Dales MetroPark is a picturesque historic nature spot located in the southern part of Dayton, USA. Covering an impressive 119 hectares, this natural complex harmoniously combines open meadows, quiet ponds, and dense forests, creating the perfect environment for a peaceful outdoor escape.

This park is considered one of the most valuable assets in the Five Rivers MetroParks system. Its concept was developed as an attempt to recreate the natural beauty of the landscape, giving city dwellers a chance to escape the urban hustle without traveling far from home.

Today, Hills & Dales is more than just a forest; it is a carefully designed space where historical heritage meets carefully preserved wilderness. It attracts hikers, photographers, and anyone who appreciates the aesthetics of classic American parks from the early last century.

For more information about the park or its visitor guidelines, you can use the following contact details. The park is part of the Five Rivers MetroParks network, which ensures high maintenance standards for the area.

A visit to the park offers many options for both active and contemplative leisure. Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the extensive network of hiking trails that wind through century-old trees and offer views of well-kept clearings. Walking here, it is easy to imagine riders traveling these same paths a century ago—horseback riding was a key part of the park's original character.

For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, there are specially equipped picnic areas. This is a great opportunity to enjoy lunch on the grass surrounded by the sounds of nature. In the autumn, the park becomes especially popular for those who enjoy gathering nature's bounty, such as nuts or apples, which has been historically permitted here.

Interestingly, in the past, the park was a true sports hub: it housed tennis courts, baseball fields, and even a golf course. Today, the focus has shifted toward ecotourism and the preservation of tranquility, making Hills & Dales an ideal place for birdwatching and peaceful rejuvenation amidst the woodland.

Getting to this natural oasis is easy, as it is located in the southern part of Dayton. The main access point is South Patterson Boulevard, which is convenient to follow if you are traveling by private or rental car. Parking spaces are provided for visitors near the main entrances.

If you prefer to take a taxi, the ride from the city center will take about 10–15 minutes. You can also consider Dayton's public transportation; however, it is recommended to check the current bus routes serving the Kettering area in advance to find the most convenient stop for starting your walk through the park.

The history of Hills & Dales MetroPark is inextricably linked to John H. Patterson, the founder of the NCR Corporation. In the early 20th century, he owned extensive lands south of Dayton and sincerely believed that fresh air and physical activity were essential for everyone's health. For this reason, he decided to transform his estate into an accessible recreation spot for the public.

Legendary masters John Charles Olmsted and Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. were invited to design the landscape. Work on the project began in 1903, and by 1907, the park opened its doors to NCR employees. Patterson's noble gesture reached its pinnacle on June 9, 1918, when he officially gifted the land to the city. The ceremony drew over 10,000 people, and the gift more than doubled the area of the city's park system.

In 2018, the park proudly celebrated its centennial. For this anniversary, a special development program was prepared, aimed at preserving the historical heritage and the unique ecosystem of the park for future generations of travelers and locals alike.

To leisurely walk the main trails and enjoy the tranquility by the water, most visitors need between 1 and 2 hours. This is usually enough for a standard walk along the park's most popular routes.

If you plan to have a picnic at one of the designated areas or want to explore the more remote forest trails, you should set aside half a day. The park encourages a long, contemplative rest, so you won't want to rush your visit.

The park is open to visitors daily, making it easy to include in your travel itinerary any day of the week. The gates of Hills & Dales MetroPark are open to guests from early morning until late evening: from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

This schedule is convenient for both sunrise morning jogs and evening walks when the setting sun beautifully illuminates the local meadows and groves.

The Dayton area offers many interesting locations to visit before or after your stroll through the park. Exploring this part of the state allows you to dive deeper into the region's aviation history and culture.