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.

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Leaf Icon Wednesday, November 01, 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM

SUBMIT ENTRIES FOR THE AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBIT


Through November 23, visitors may submit two entries for the 18th Amateur Photography Exhibit, on display in the Nature Realm visitors center January through May 2018. Only two printed photographs will be accepted, and all images must be taken in areas managed by Summit Metro Parks. With each entry, please include your name, address, phone number, email, the location where the image was taken and a title for the image. Entries should not be matted or framed, and should be one of the following sizes: 5"x7", 8"x10" or 11"x14". All originals may be picked up at the Nature Realm after the exhibit. You may drop off entries during the visitors center's regular hours, c/o Naturalist Elizabeth Kresse, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron, OH 44313. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, November 01, 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM

FALL SYMBOLISM HIKE


Gourds, corn and more! Explore symbolism through the plants, animals and colors of fall. Good for spree credit. CV/Chuckery

Leaf Icon Thursday, November 02, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

BOATING COURSE


Get a head start on next year's boating season by taking the NASBLA-approved Ohio boating course. Participants must complete all three 3-hour classes offered 11/2, 11/9 and 11/16. Ohio law requires that anyone born on or after January 1, 1982 must successfully complete either a boating course or a proficiency exam in order to operate a boat powered by more than 10 horsepower. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 10/21: 330-865-8065. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Thursday, November 02, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

NATIVE AMERICAN HISTORY


Enjoy an evening learning about Native Americans, including the nations that inhabited our region in the past and how they interacted with the land and animals. This program is appropriate for ages 16 and older. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, November 03, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: WILD TURKEYS


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions learn about wild turkeys. Includes a hike and craft. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 10/20: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, November 03, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

KINDEREALM: WILD TURKEYS


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions learn about wild turkeys. Includes a hike and craft. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 10/20: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, November 03, 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM

SUNSET HIKE


Join Naturalist Dave Brumfield on a hike along Willow Trail to enjoy the sights and sounds of the fall season. Hopefully, we'll enjoy the sunset as we finish our hike. Good for spree credit. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Friday, November 03, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

HIKE AND FIRE


Join a naturalist for an evening hike followed by a campfire. Feel free to bring your favorite folklore and not-so-scary campfire stories. Marshmallows will be provided for roasting, while supplies last. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, November 04, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HIKING SPREE SHIELD ASSISTANCE


You hiked eight trails to earn the 2017 Fall Hiking Spree shield, but attaching it to your hiking staff may be harder than completing the hikes. Volunteers will gladly attach it for you at no charge.  FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, November 05, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

THE POWER OF POISON


Learn what it means to be “poisonous” and hike in search of plants and animals that use chemical defenses. Good for spree credit. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, November 05, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

READING THE LANDSCAPE


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur as we learn how to see the forest for the trees. You'll become like Sherlock Holmes and learn to decipher the clues left by natural and manmade "disturbances" in the forest. Good for spree credit. SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Sunday, November 05, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

OWL PROWL


Explore for owls with Naturalist Elizabeth Kresse. Patience and silence are essential when prowling for owls. Program for ages 6 and older. No dogs, please. WH

Leaf Icon Monday, November 06, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

CARDIO HIKE


Join a naturalist for healthy outdoor exercise by hiking Deer Run Trail twice at a vigorous pace. Beginners are welcome, but talk to your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine. Drinking water is recommended. Good for spree credit. ONW/Trail Lot

Leaf Icon Tuesday, November 07, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

NATURE CRAFTING FOR ADULTS: "FOR THE BIRDS" BASKET


Over two nights (11/7 & 11/8), participants will create a beautiful basket, woven atop an Amish-crafted pine base. It's literally for the birds! Place it outside your favorite window or give it as a gift. Skill level: intermediate. Cost: $40/person. Please bring a flat-head screwdriver, needle-nose pliers, towel and 2-gallon bucket, if you can. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 10/24: 330-865-8065. SR/Mingo

Leaf Icon Wednesday, November 08, 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 10/21: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, November 08, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

WEEKDAY WALKERS


Stroll the Ledges Trail with Naturalist Becca Zak to search for and learn about the wildlife seen in this park. Good for spree credit. LP/Twinsburg Ledges

Leaf Icon Wednesday, November 08, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

NATIVE AMERICAN CAMPFIRE


Families are invited to enjoy a campfire while learning about Native Americans through stories. Good for spree credit. FASN/Campfire Area

Leaf Icon Thursday, November 09, 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

PINECONE BIRD FEEDERS


Drop in to create pinecone bird feeders and have a cup of hot chocolate by the fire, while supplies last. All ages are welcome. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, November 09, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

A YEAR OF HERBS: HERBAL COOKING FOR THE HOLIDAYS


This month, learn about different herbs that will add flavor and fun to your holidays without additional calories! Participants may sample some recipes, while supplies last. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, November 10, 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

VISITOR APPRECIATION WEEKEND


Visitors to the Nature Realm gift shop receive 15% off all purchases, Friday through Sunday. Items for sale include education items, jewelry, books, children's merchandise and more. On Friday (Veterans Day), the first 50 military service veterans will receive free "Made in the USA" giveaways. Shop hours are 10 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Friday and Saturday, noon to 4:45 p.m. Sunday. Please call 330-865-8065 for more information. FASN/Visitors Center

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

HOMESCHOOLERS: NATURE'S ARCHITECTS


Homeschoolers, ages 7 to 10: Birds, beavers, bees and more! Join a naturalist to learn about the fascinating structures that animals create. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 10/28: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, November 10, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: NATURE'S ARCHITECTS


Homeschoolers, ages 7 to 10: Birds, beavers, bees and more! Join a naturalist to learn about the fascinating structures that animals create. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 10/28: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, November 11, 10:30 AM - 12:00 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. Cost: $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 10/27: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Saturday, November 11, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

ARCHERY FOR FAMILIES


Archery is one of the oldest arts still practiced today, and it's more accessible than ever. Families with children 9 and older: Learn international-style target archery together at our indoor range. Program good for beginning and practiced archers. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be 50 inches or taller. Cost: $15/family. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 10/27: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Saturday, November 11, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HIKING SPREE SHIELD ASSISTANCE


You hiked eight trails to earn the 2017 Fall Hiking Spree shield, but attaching it to your hiking staff may be harder than completing the hikes. Volunteers will gladly attach it for you at no charge.  FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, November 12, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

RAPTOR HIKE


Take a hike on Ledges Trail with a naturalist to learn about the raptors of Liberty Park. Good for spree credit. LP/Twinsburg Ledges

Leaf Icon Sunday, November 12, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS


Ages 6 to 12 join our interpretive artist for this lesson in nature drawing. Paper and pencils will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/3: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, November 12, 12:30 PM - 2:00 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. Cost: $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 10/27: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Sunday, November 12, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS


Ages 6 to 12 join our interpretive artist for this lesson in nature drawing. Paper and pencils will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/3: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, November 12, 2:30 PM - 4:00 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. Cost: $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 10/27: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Monday, November 13, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

AFTERNOON STROLL


Stroll the 2-mile Chippewa Trail, with frequent stops to discover nature and history along the way. Good for spree credit. SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Monday, November 13, 5:00 PM - 8:00 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 10/27: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Tuesday, November 14, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: WILD TURKEYS


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions learn about wild turkeys. Includes a hike and craft. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 10/20: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Tuesday, November 14, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

YOGA IN THE PARK: VINYASA


Enjoy a vinyasa yoga practice indoors with a certified instructor. Wear comfortable clothing, bring a yoga mat or towel and drinking water. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 10/31: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, November 15, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

CARDIO HIKE


Hike four 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. Good for spree credit. SC/Big Oak

Leaf Icon Wednesday, November 15, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS


Join our interpretive artist 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 11/4: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, November 15, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS


Join our interpretive artist 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 11/4: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, November 15, 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM

NIGHT HIKE


Join Naturalist Becca Zak to search for nocturnal creatures that are active near the end of fall. Head lamps or flashlights and a sense of adventure are recommended! Good for spree credit. MF/Tallmadge Meadows

Leaf Icon Thursday, November 16, 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

DIY: PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS


Making your own personal care products is easy, frugal and a great way to lessen your exposure to toxins. Join Naturalist Becca Zak to learn about traditional personal care products, their alternatives, and make your own! Cost: $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/7: 330-865-8065. SR/Mingo

Leaf Icon Friday, November 17, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

WATERFOWL WATCH


New and experienced birdwatchers can join Naturalist Dave Brumfield to search for waterfowl during the fall migration. Bring binoculars or a spotting scope. TT/Summit Lake

Leaf Icon Friday, November 17, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: NATURE'S ARCHITECTS


Homeschoolers, ages 11 to 14: Birds, beavers, bees and more! Join a naturalist to learn about the fascinating structures that animals create. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 10/28: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, November 17, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

OHIO'S ICE AGE ANIMALS


Learn about giant ground sloths, cave bears, mastodons, and other fantastic creatures that roamed Ohio more than 10,000 years ago with a presentation and activities appropriate for all ages. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, November 17, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

OWL PROWL


Explore for owls with a naturalist on Ledges Trail. Patience and silence are essential when prowling for owls. Program for ages 6 and older. No dogs, please. LP/Twinsburg Ledges

Leaf Icon Saturday, November 18, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

NO LEAVES I.D.


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur to hike Dogwood Trail and learn how to I.D. various trees and shrubs. We will not look at any leaves, but instead focus on bark, buds, and twig patterns. Each participant will get their own key to help them with ID. Good for spree credit. SR/Wadsworth

Leaf Icon Saturday, November 18, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HIKING SPREE SHIELD ASSISTANCE


You hiked eight trails to earn the 2017 Fall Hiking Spree shield, but attaching it to your hiking staff may be harder than completing the hikes. Volunteers will gladly attach it for you at no charge.  FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, November 18, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

FALL ASTRONOMY HIKE


Hike Springfield Bog in the evening to discover what lies awake in the skies above. Good for spree credit. SFB

Leaf Icon Sunday, November 19, 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

I SPY


Enjoy a stroll while playing the familiar game "I Spy." Pick up your scavenger hunt list between noon and 3 p.m., then hit the trail to search for some unusual objects. Return your list to the front desk by 5 p.m. for a prize. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, November 19, 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM

WILD IN THE WOODS


All ages can stop by our Nature Play area to engage in fun, hands-on experiences with nature. A naturalist will be on hand to help guide your experience. Getting dirty is encouraged, so dress appropriately. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, November 19, 2:00 PM - 3:30 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. Good for spree credit. MF/Tallmadge Meadows

Leaf Icon Monday, November 20, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: WILD TURKEYS


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions learn about wild turkeys. Includes a hike and craft. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 10/20: 330-865-8065. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Monday, November 20, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

CARDIO HIKE


Join Naturalist Becca Zak to hike both Pheasant Run and Chippewa trails at a vigorous pace with few, if any, rest stops. Beginners are welcome, but talk to your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine. Drinking water is recommended. Good for spree credit. SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Monday, November 20, 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM

TURKEY TALES


Hike Deer Run Trail in search of wild turkeys, turkey vultures and turkey tail fungi. Good for spree credit. ONW/Trail Lot

Leaf Icon Wednesday, November 22, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: WILD TURKEYS


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions learn about wild turkeys. Includes a hike and craft. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 10/20: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Wednesday, November 22, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

ANTI-STRESS HIKE


Holiday stress getting to you? Come enjoy an invigorating hike to help relieve some of your pre-holiday stress. Good for spree credit. SR/Wadsworth

Leaf Icon Saturday, November 25, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HIKING SPREE SHIELD ASSISTANCE


You hiked eight trails to earn the 2017 Fall Hiking Spree shield, but attaching it to your hiking staff may be harder than completing the hikes. Volunteers will gladly attach it for you at no charge.  FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, November 25, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

FALL PRAIRIE HIKE


Join Naturalist Dave Brumfield for a leisurely afternoon stroll to enjoy all that fall has to offer. Good for spree credit. SFB

Leaf Icon Sunday, November 26, 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM

FALL MUSHROOM HIKE


Join a naturalist for a hike on Spring Hollow Trail to learn about and view mushrooms. Edibles are not included in this program. Please dress for the weather. Good for spree credit. HH/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Sunday, November 26, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

COFFEE WITH THE BIRDS


Join Naturalist Renell Roebuck for a peaceful morning discussion at the wildlife viewing area. We will find out why this area is a favorite of our winter residents. Bring a mug. Coffee is provided. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, November 26, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

FOLLOW THE FOOTPRINTS


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur to explore tracks in the mud and/or snow, and learn about the animals that made them. Discover differences between the tracks of dogs and coyotes, raccoons and beavers, otters and bobcats. LP/Pond Brook

Leaf Icon Wednesday, November 29, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

WEEKDAY WALKERS


Join Naturalist Dave Brumfield on a 2-mile hike on Dogwood Trail, with stops along the way to discover nature and history. Good for spree credit. SR/Wadsworth

Leaf Icon Wednesday, November 29, 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

WILD IN THE WOODS


All ages can stop by our Nature Play area to engage in fun, hands-on experiences with nature. A naturalist will be on hand to help guide your experience. Getting dirty is encouraged, so dress appropriately. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Thursday, November 30, 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM

TOWPATH HISTORY HIKE


Walk with a naturalist to learn the history of the Towpath Trail and how it helped shape the Village of Clinton. Good for spree credit. TT/Clinton

Leaf Icon Thursday, November 30, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

LAST HIKE: UNDER THE STARS


Enjoy nature at night on this 1.2-mile naturalist-led hike under the stars, and then enjoy a campfire. It’s your last chance to earn Fall Hiking Spree credit. Good for spree credit. LP/Nature Center