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 Wednesday, February 01, 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 1/19: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 02, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

WEEKDAY WALKERS


Join a naturalist for a leisurely stroll on Quarry Trail, with stops along the way to discover nature and history. DLQ

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 02, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

SMALL FOOTPRINT: PLASTIC


Learn about and discuss all things plastic: bags, bottles, and the Great Pacific Garbage Patch (yes, it exists). Bring a notebook and a head full of ideas. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, February 03, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: STATIC ELECTRICITY


Homeschoolers, ages 7 to 10, join a naturalist to learn about static electricity and how it relates to day-to-day experiences in life. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/21: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, February 03, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: STATIC ELECTRICITY


Homeschoolers, ages 7 to 10, join a naturalist to learn about static electricity and how it relates to day-to-day experiences in life. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/21: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, February 03, 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. WH

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 04, 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, February 04, 10:30 AM - 12:00 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. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/21: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 04, 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. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/21: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 04, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

RUSTY BLACKBIRD BIRD WALK


Join Naturalist Pat Rydquist to search for the beautiful yellow eyes of the rusty blackbird, a declining species that winters in Firestone Metro Park. All other birds will be a bonus. Binoculars recommended. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 04, 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. TT/Manchester

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 05, 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 1/27: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 05, 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM

ARCHERY FOR COUPLES


Couples can learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship together at our indoor range. Program good for beginning and practiced archers. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Participants must be at least 18. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/21: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

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

CARDIO HIKE


Join Naturalist Elizabeth Kresse for healthy outdoor exercise by hiking 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. Meet at the Indian Spring Trailhead. MF/Lake Area

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 05, 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM

ARCHERY FOR COUPLES


Couples can learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship together at our temporaryindoor range. Program good for beginning and practiced archers. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Participants must be at least 18. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/21: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 05, 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 1/27: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Tuesday, February 07, 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 Wednesday, February 08, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: OWLS


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions discover the owls "whooo" are raising young this time of year. 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 1/28: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 08, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

WILDLIFE IN WINTER


Join a naturalist to discover how wildlife living on land or under water survive the winter. Meet at the Indian Spring Trailhead MF/Lake Area

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 09, 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 1/31: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, February 10, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: OWLS


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions discover the owls "whooo" are raising young this time of year. 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 1/28: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, February 10, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

KINDEREALM: OWLS


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions discover the owls "whooo" are raising young this time of year. 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 1/28: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 11, 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 still hike the area. Dress for the weather. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/29: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 11, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: OWLS


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions discover the owls "whooo" are raising young this time of year. 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 1/28: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 11, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

THRUSH AND FLYCATCHER I.D.


Brush up on the thrushes and their flycatcher look-a-likes. Join Naturalist Pat Rydquist for identification tips, songs and habitats . Good for new and experienced birders to refresh their skills. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 11, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

UNUSUAL OHIO ANIMALS


This program highlights Ohio's unusual and sometimes uncommon wildlife such as freshwater jellyfish, paddlefish, badgers, flying squirrels, hellbender salamanders, lamprey, eels, porcupines and more. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 12, 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 Elizabeth Kresse feed the animals while learning more about them. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/2: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 12, 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

PINECONE BIRD FEEDERS


Join Naturalist Cassie Hall to make pinecone feeders for the birds. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 12, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

DOG WALKING HIKE


Follow a naturalist with your furry friend on a leash (8-foot max) for a walk around Rock Creek Trail. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 12, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

WINTER TREE I.D.


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur to learn the best way to identify tree species without looking at leaves! We will be looking at bark patterns, twigs and buds. MF/Lake Area

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 12, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HIKING SPREE SHIELD ASSISTANCE


You hiked eight trails to earn the 2016 Fall Hiking Spree shield, but attaching it to your hiking staff was harder than completing the hikes. Volunteers will gladly attach it for you at no charge. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Monday, February 13, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

WEEKDAY WALKERS


Hike with a naturalist and discover the nature and history of the Cuyahoga River watershed. CV/Oxbow

Leaf Icon Tuesday, February 14, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

T-SHIRT YARN


Learn how to make T-shirt yarn and create simple crafts using the yarn you've made. Please bring two blank, old T-shirts for use. Space is limited. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 15, 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 2/3: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 15, 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 2/3: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 16, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

COUCH TO 5K INFO SESSION


Learn about our training series that, in just 10 weeks, will get you off the couch and completing a 5K! During this info session, you will have an opportunity to meet your trainer, ask questions and sign up for the program. FASN/Visitors Center

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

HOMESCHOOLERS: STATIC ELECTRICITY


Homeschoolers, ages 11 to 14, join a naturalist to learn about static electricity and how it relates to day-to-day experiences in life. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/21: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, February 17, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

THE BEAR TRUTH


Learn the truth about our biggest and furriest neighbor, the black bear. Hike to a cave before enjoying hot cocoa (while supplies last) in the nature center. LP/Nature Center

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

GEOLOGY OF THE GORGE


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur to learn how the different rock layers in the park were formed, and about the forces that have shaped those rocks ever since. G/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 18, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

REPURPOSED BIRD FEEDER WORKSHOP


Join a naturalist to learn how to attract birds to your yard in winter, and to create a take-home bird feeder out of repurposed materials. Bring an old coffee mug or tea cup if possible; some will be provided. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 18, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

SNOW ART


Don't let the snow get you down! Come out and learn new, creative ways to brighten your days and enjoy the snowy weather. Dress to play outdoors. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 19, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

CARDIO HIKE


Join a naturalist for healthy outdoor exercise by hiking the 1.8-mile 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. ONW/Trail Lot

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 19, 1:00 PM - 3:30 PM

THE BEAUTY OF MOTHS


Moths are in the same order as butterflies, and also have beautiful patterns and colors. However, since moths are nocturnal, we don't experience their glory. Join Naturalist Pat Rydquist to enjoy an afternoon of the fabulous moths that live in Northeast Ohio. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 19, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

BALD EAGLE OPEN HOUSE


Swing by any time between 1 and 3 p.m. to learn about bald eagles, and hopefully catch a glimpse! LP/Tinkers Creek SNP

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 19, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

I DREAM OF SPRING


Wildflowers, butterflies and birds are on their way. Cheer up with a slideshow of all things spring. F/Coventry Oaks

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

KINDEREALM: OWLS


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions discover the owls "whooo" are raising young this time of year. 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 1/28: 330-865-8065. GYH/Lodge

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

PRE-TEEN YOGA


Ages 9 to 13: Join a certified yoga instructor to disconnect from the stresses of school and extracurricular activities by reconnecting to nature through yoga. Weather permitting, program will include a short walk. Wear comfortable clothing, bring a yoga mat or towel, and water. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Monday, February 20, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

MIGRATORS & HIBERNATORS


Hike with a naturalist on Indian Spring Trail while learning about the animals that migrate and those that stick it out through cold winter months. MF/Lake Area

Leaf Icon Tuesday, February 21, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: OWLS


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions discover the owls "whooo" are raising young this time of year. 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 1/28: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 22, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

MEET ME IN THE GARDEN


Join the Master Gardeners of Summit County to learn pruning techniques for healthy plant growth. Presented by Laura Esposito, F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm park manager. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 23, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

WEEKDAY WALKERS


Enjoy this leisurely stroll along the 1.6-mile Buttonbush Trail, with frequent stops to discover nature along the way. LP/Pond Brook

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 23, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

CRYSTAL PALACE HIKE


Every year beautiful, colorful icicles form along the Cuyahoga River, creating a "Crystal Palace." Join a naturalist and discover first-hand the beauty of water in winter. We'll still hike if there's no snow or ice. G/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Friday, February 24, 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. SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 25, 8:00 AM - 10:30 AM

'HEARTFUL' HIKE & BREAKFAST


Join us for a brisk winter hike and hearty breakfast. Participants will be asked to contribute to the feast. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/7: 330-865-8065. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 25, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

ARCHERY GAMES FOR COUPLES


Couples 18 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 2/10: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

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

ARCHERY GAMES FOR FAMILIES


Families with children 9 and older will play different games to build archery skills together 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 2/10: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

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

A HOPPING GOOD TIME FOR KIDS


Children learn about our local frogs and toads and what makes them so interesting. Program includes a craft that allows youngsters to better understand these creatures in a fun way. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 25, 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM

WATERY WINTER WARRIORS


Do you have what it takes to survive the winter ... underwater? Stroll along the Towpath Trail to learn how aquatic creatures battle the cold. TT/Manchester

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 26, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

TRACKING: THE ART OF SEEING


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur to hone your skills, tracking animals through the mud or snow. LP/Pond Brook

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 26, 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

COFFEE WITH THE BIRDS


Join Naturalist Elizabeth Kresse 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. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 26, 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 2/10: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

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

CRYSTAL PALACE HIKE


Every year beautiful, colorful icicles form along the Cuyahoga River, creating a "Crystal Palace." Join a naturalist and discover first-hand the beauty of water in winter. We'll still hike if there's no snow or ice. G/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Monday, February 27, 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