Island Park Dayton: Red pedestrian, bicycle bridge

A few miles north of the iconic RiverScape MetroPark is a cool little spot with just as much history — only a little more hidden.

“Island” is a part of the Five Rivers MetroParks system and is a perfect “urban oasis” for cyclists, hikers, families, pets and nature-loving explorers who love a good view. Connecting Island MetroPark (see map below) to another great recreational area, Triangle Park, is the Gayle B. Price Jr. Bridge. The crimson bridge that suspends across the Great Miami River, while large and eye-catching, could easily be missed by anyone passing by the park.

Credit: Ron Alvey

Credit: Ron Alvey

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Credit: Sarah Franks

Standing in the middle of the bridge facing Triangle Park, there is a completely wild and natural perspective of the Great Miami to the right, and to the left is a winding river path leading to Dayton’s skyline.

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Credit: Sarah Franks

"The Gayle B. Price Jr. Bridge is an iconic pedestrian and bicycle bridge spanning the Great Miami River. The abutments and piers are reinforced concrete while the decks and pylons are steel. This bright red bridge connects Island MetroPark with Triangle Park linking the paved Great Miami River Trail with the Stillwater River Trail. The bridge was named for Mr. Price, a long-time civic champion for Dayton and valued board member of the Miami Conservancy District," according to the MetroPark's website.

Other amenities found at Island include a family-friendly splash pad, access to the Buckeye Trail and a short bike ride away from Deeds Point MetroPark.

This gorgeous view of the Island Park Reservoir is also accessible alongside the Island portion of the Great Miami River Recreational Trail.