Summit Metro Parks We're Your Back Yard

Programs & Events

Program & Events Calendar

To join a virtual program, visit www.zoom.com and enter the Zoom meeting ID.

Summit Metro Parks staff can adapt many programs to be accessible to anyone who would like to participate. Please make the request at the time of registration and/or at least 72 hours prior to the program. Contact us at 330-865-8065.

On the rare occasion of a program cancelation or change, please visit us on social media to see the latest information.

AprilMayJune

Leaf Icon Monday, January 02, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

HOT COCOA STROLL


Start your New Year off with a cup of hot cocoa and a relaxing stroll on Downy Loop Trail. WH

Leaf Icon Monday, January 02, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

COSTUME CHANGE


Take a hike to learn how animals change their appearances in order to survive Northeast Ohio winters. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Friday, January 06, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: HAWKS & EAGLES


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions will explore which hawks and eagles winter here. A craft and short hike will be included. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/27: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, January 06, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

KINDEREALM: HAWKS & EAGLES


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions will explore which hawks and eagles winter here. A craft and short hike will be included. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/27: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, January 06, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

OWL PROWL


Explore for owls with Naturalist Elizabeth Kresse. Patience and silence are essential. Program for ages 6 and older. No dogs, please. We will meet at the Indian Spring Trailhead. MF/Lake Area

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 07, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: HAWKS & EAGLES


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions will explore which hawks and eagles winter here. A craft and short hike will be included. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/27: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 07, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

BIRDS OF PREY I.D.


Join Naturalist Pat Rydquist to learn to identify raptors while they are soaring overhead or perched. Great for beginners or experts. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, January 08, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

FEEDING TIME


Ever wonder what we feed our display animals at the Nature Realm? Ages 5 and older can help Naturalist Cassie Hall feed the animals while learning more about them. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/31: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, January 08, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

ADAPTATIONS HIKE


Take a hike and learn about the unique traits that help plants and animals survive the winter. WH

Leaf Icon Sunday, January 08, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBIT RECEPTION


Join Summit Metro Parks for the opening reception of the 2017 Amateur Photography Exhibit. Meet the photographers, enjoy light refreshments and see the natural beauty of the Metro Parks through the eyes and cameras of folks like you. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Monday, January 09, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

CARDIO HIKE


Hike 3.2 miles at a vigorous pace with few, if any, rest stops. Beginners are welcome, but talk to your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine. SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Tuesday, January 10, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

COOL BIRDS


Enjoy a hike for the birds. Learn what our feathered friends do during winter, and try your hand at feeding them. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 11, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

AFTERNOON STROLL


Stroll along the 1.6-mile Prairie Trail, with frequent stops to discover nature and history along the way. SFB

Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 11, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

SMALL FOOTPRINT: EATING SEASONALLY


Yes, there is fresh food to eat in the middle of winter, even in Ohio! Learn about the concept of seasonal eating and where to find fresh, local food this time of year. Come with a notebook and a head full of ideas. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, January 12, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

TELLTALE TRACKS


Who left these footprints? Make some tracks of your own while we discover signs of wildlife. LP/Pond Brook

Leaf Icon Thursday, January 12, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

YOGA IN THE PARK


Enjoy an active yoga practice with a certified instructor. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/31: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, January 13, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: THE POWER OF POISON


Homeschoolers, ages 7 to 10: Join a naturalist to discover the unique chemical warfare that goes on in the natural world. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/30: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, January 13, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: THE POWER OF POISON


Homeschoolers, ages 7 to 10: Join a naturalist to discover the unique chemical warfare that goes on in the natural world. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/30: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, January 13, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

WEIRD & WONDERFUL WILDLIFE


Learn from Naturalist Sarah Putnam about the weird and wacky things that animals do all year long. WH

Leaf Icon Friday, January 13, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

BASIC SPIDER I.D.


Spiders may be terrifying, but they are important. Join Naturalist Pat Rydquist to see the beauty of arachnids and overcome your fears. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 14, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

COFFEE WITH THE BIRDS


Join Naturalist Renell Roebuck for a peaceful morning discussion at the wildlife viewing area, and find out why it's a favorite of our winged winter residents. Bring a mug. Coffee is provided. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 14, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

ARCHERY FOR KIDS


Children 9 to 15 can learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our temporary indoor range. Program good for beginning and practiced archers. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be 50 inches or taller. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/3: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 14, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

ARCHERY FOR ADULTS


Archery is one of the oldest arts still practiced today, and it's more accessible than ever. Participants 16 and older can learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our temporary indoor range. Program good for beginning and practiced archers. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/3: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 14, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

METRO PARKS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR


We'll hike a different trail each month, taking a photographic record of the seasonal changes that happen. In December we'll come in from the cold and review the year in pictures. You can take your own pictures or just enjoy the hikes. LP/Pond Brook

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 14, 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM

SUNSET HIKE


Join Naturalist Dave Brumfield for a relaxing evening hike on Meadow Trail, and hopefully we'll enjoy a beautiful sunset along the way. MF/Tallmadge Meadows

Leaf Icon Sunday, January 15, 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM

ARCHERY FOR KIDS


Children 9 to 15 can learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our temporary indoor range. Program good for beginning and practiced archers. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be 50 inches or taller. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/3: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Sunday, January 15, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

WINTER SENSORY HIKE


Families are invited to join Naturalist Elizabeth Kresse to spend the afternoon exploring winter using their senses. Please dress for the weather, as the program will be indoors and outdoors. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, January 15, 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM

ARCHERY FOR ADULTS


Archery is one of the oldest arts still practiced today, and it's more accessible than ever. Participants 16 and older can learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our temporary indoor range. Program good for beginning and practiced archers. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/3: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Monday, January 16, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

TRACKS FOR KIDS


Go on a hike, learn the basics of tracking and search for clues that animals have left behind: tracks and scat! LP/Pond Brook

Leaf Icon Monday, January 16, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: HAWKS & EAGLES


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions will explore which hawks and eagles winter here. A craft and short hike will be included. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/27: 330-865-8065. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Monday, January 16, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

SCHOOL'S OUT COOKOUT


Bring your own hot dogs and buns to cook over an open fire, and we’ll provide drinks and condiments. Enjoy nature trivia while cooking and eating your lunch. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/5: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Tuesday, January 17, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: HAWKS & EAGLES


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions will explore which hawks and eagles winter here. A craft and short hike will be included. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/27: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 18, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS


Join naturalist and artist Danette Rushboldt for this entertaining lesson in nature drawing. Bring a sketchbook, pencil and a sense of humor. Beginners are welcome. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/10: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 18, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: HAWKS & EAGLES


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions will explore which hawks and eagles winter here. A craft and short hike will be included. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/27: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 18, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS


Join naturalist and artist Danette Rushboldt for this entertaining lesson in nature drawing. Bring a sketchbook, pencil and a sense of humor. Beginners are welcome. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/10: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, January 19, 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

NATURE STORIES


Young children and their adult companions will enjoy this interactive, nature-inspired story time intended for ages 18 months to 3 years. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/6: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, January 19, 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

KIDS YOGA & MINDFULNESS


Budding yogis, ages 7-10: Join a certified instructor for a yoga and mindfulness class focused on connecting with nature. Wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat or towel and drinking water. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, January 20, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: THE POWER OF POISON


Homeschoolers, ages 11 to 14: Join a naturalist to discover the unique chemical warfare that goes on in the natural world. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/30: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, January 20, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

TRACKS, SCAT & SPLAT


Who’s been walking through the meadow? Learn about winter animals by observing the marks they leave behind. Dress for the weather. MF/Tallmadge Meadows

Leaf Icon Friday, January 20, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

WINTER WILDLIFE CAMPFIRE


Learn how nature deals with the cold of winter while we warm up around a toasty fire and roast marshmallows (while supplies last). F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 21, 8:00 AM - 10:30 AM

HIKE & BREAKFAST: SNOWFLAKE HIKE


Join us for a brisk winter hike and "comfort" breakfast of oatmeal and more. Participants will be asked to contribute to the feast. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/12: 330-865-8065. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 21, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

SNOWSHOE HIKE


Snowshoeing is a great way to get out and enjoy the winter season. Join Naturalist Dave Brumfield for a brief how-to lesson, followed by a moderate snowshoe hike. A limited number of snowshoes are available. If there's not enough snow (at least five inches), we will hike instead. Dress for the weather. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/8: 330-865-8065. LP/Recreation

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 21, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

WILDLIFE AND WOOD WORKSHOP


Learn how to attract birds to your back yard and build a hanging tray bird feeder. Limit one kit per family. Participation is required to purchase a $5 kit. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/7: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, January 22, 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

COFFEE WITH THE BIRDS


Join Naturalist Elizabeth Kresse for a peaceful discussion at the wildlife viewing area, and find out why it's a favorite of our winged winter residents. Bring a mug. Coffee is provided. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, January 22, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS


Ages 6 to 12 join naturalist and artist Danette Rushboldt for this lesson in nature drawing. Paper and pencils will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/14: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, January 22, 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS


Ages 6 to 12 join naturalist and artist Danette Rushboldt for this lesson in nature drawing. Paper and pencils will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/14: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Monday, January 23, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

CARDIO HIKE


Join a naturalist for healthy outdoor exercise by hiking the 1.6-mile Prairie Trail two times at a vigorous pace. Beginners are welcome, but talk to your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine. Drinking water is recommended. SFB

Leaf Icon Tuesday, January 24, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

NATURE CRAFTING FOR ADULTS: BASKETS


Over two nights, weave your own lug-handle basket. Skill level: intermediate. Please bring a small flathead screwdriver, needle-nose pliers, towel and 2-gallon bucket, if you can. Materials fee: $10. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/13: 330-865-8065. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 25, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

NATURE CRAFTING FOR ADULTS: BASKETS


Over two nights, weave your own lug-handle basket. Skill level: intermediate. Please bring a small flathead screwdriver, needle-nose pliers, towel and 2-gallon bucket, if you can. Materials fee: $10. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/13: 330-865-8065. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 25, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

MEET ME IN THE GARDEN


Join the Master Gardeners of Summit County to learn the latest ideas for growing vegetables. Presented by Master Gardeners Heather Stafinsky and Jan Becker. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, January 26, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

METRO PARKS FAMILY TREE: THE O'NEIL FAMILY


Have you ever wondered about the families who donated land to Summit Metro Parks, or the people who worked to make the parks what they are today? Join Naturalist Elizabeth Kresse for this series that explores the lives of the influential individuals behind the park district. This month we will "meet" the O'Neil family. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 28, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

ARCHERY GAMES FOR KIDS


Ages 9 to 15 will play different games to build archery skills in a fun and exciting way. Participants must have already taken one of our Intro to Archery programs. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be 50 inches or taller. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/20: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 28, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

ARCHERY GAMES FOR ADULTS


Ages 16 and older will play different games to build archery skills in a fun and exciting way. Participants must have already taken one of our Intro to Archery programs. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/20: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 28, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

PINECONE BIRD FEEDERS


Join Naturalist Dave Brumfield to make pinecone bird feeders to use this winter, and then head outside to feed the birds from your hand. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 28, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

TAILING NIGHT TALONS


Naturalist Sarah Putnam will attempt to call owls using recordings, with hope that owls will respond. Patience and silence are essential. For ages 6 and older. No dogs, please. LP/Twinsburg Ledges

Leaf Icon Sunday, January 29, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

WINTER POETRY HIKE


Enjoy the beauty of nature in January while listening to excerpts of famous winter poems read by a naturalist. CV/Schumacher Valley

Leaf Icon Sunday, January 29, 12:30 PM - 3:30 PM

ARCHERY OPEN SHOOT


Here's your chance to practice your archery skills. Register for a half-hour time slot to improve your shot. Participants must have already taken our Intro to Archery and Archery Games programs. All equipment provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/20: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Tuesday, January 31, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

CARDIO HIKE


Hike more than five miles at a vigorous pace with few, if any, rest stops. Beginners are welcome, but talk to your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine. GYH/Pioneer