Trout Island Loop

This route begins in Sharpsville off North Mercer Avenue, where you’ll pick up the Trout Island Trail—a former rail corridor turned multi-use path—and follow it northeast toward the Trout Island Peninsula. At roughly the halfway point, look for a signed or visible junction and turn left onto the Trout Island Peninsula Trail. From here, the route transitions into a more wooded, shoreline experience, forming a quiet loop around the peninsula along the edge of Shenango River Lake. The peninsula section features minor elevation changes, occasional muddy patches, and a mix of narrow footpaths and wider tread. As the loop circles the shoreline, it offers open views of the reservoir and shaded stretches through hardwood forest. After completing the shoreline segment, return to the Trout Island Trail and follow it back toward Sharpsville. The route is moderate in difficulty, with optional shorter or easier segments accessible from parking areas along the paved trail off Trout Island Road. Hikers can expect a mix of paved and natural-surface walking, lakeside scenery, and occasional sightings of eagles and other wildlife near the water.