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 Saturday, April 01, 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM

HUMOR HIKE


Take a hike for some silly April Fools’ Day laughs. Bring any nature-related jokes you may have! SR/Treaty Line

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 01, 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 ages 9 and older join us to learn international-style target archery together at Twinsburg's 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 3/10: 330-865-8065. Twinsburg Community Center: 10260 Ravenna Rd. Twinsburg, OH 44087

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 01, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

PALEO INDIANS


Join Naturalist Pat Rydquist to discover how the first native people lived, hunted and traded almost 16,000 years ago through artifacts, activities and historical records. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 01, 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. SC/Big Oak

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 02, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

ARCHERY FOR KIDS


Archery is one of the oldest arts still practiced today, and it's more accessible than ever. Children 9 to 15 join us to learn international-style target archery at Twinsburg's 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 3/10: 330-865-8065. Twinsburg Community Center: 10260 Ravenna Rd. Twinsburg, OH 44087

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 02, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS


Ages 6 to 12 join a naturalist-artist for this lesson in nature drawing. Paper and pencils will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/14: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 02, 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. Adults 16 and older can learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at Twinsburg's indoor range. Program good for beginning and practiced archers. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/10: 330-865-8065. Twinsburg Community Center: 10260 Ravenna Rd. Twinsburg, OH 44087

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 02, 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS


Ages 6 to 12 join a naturalist-artist for this lesson in nature drawing. Paper and pencils will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/14: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 05, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

NATIONAL WALKING DAY


Join Naturalist Pat Rydquist on National Walking Day, and enjoy spring beauty while getting the health benefits of walking. SFB

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 05, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS


Join a naturalist-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 3/17: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 05, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS


Join a naturalist-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 3/17: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 05, 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM

ALL ABOUT OTTERS


Celebrate the return of river otters to our waters and learn about these playful creatures through interactive displays, fun activities and more. Nature center hours will be extended to 7 p.m. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 06, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

SPRING SNAKE HIKE


They climb! They swim! They slither! Hike along wooded trails with a naturalist in search of Ohio’s 28 snake species in trees, under logs and on the forest floor! LP/Twinsburg Ledges

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 06, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

WEEKDAY WALKERS


Join Naturalist Sarah Putnam for a leisurely stroll on Pheasant Run Trail with stops along the way to discover nature and history. SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 06, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

WARBLER WARM-UP


Join Naturalist Pat Rydquist for a series on identification tips, songs and habitats of our returning warblers. New birders can get a jumpstart and experienced birders can brush up on their skills. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, April 07, 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM

WATERFOWL WATCH


Spring is a great time to view ducks, geese and other waterfowl. New and experienced birdwatchers can join us during the migration. Bring binoculars or a spotting scope. TT/Manchester

Leaf Icon Friday, April 07, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: APRIL SHOWERS


Children 3 to 6 with their adult companions learn how April showers prepare plants and animals for spring. A craft and hike are part of the program. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/18: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, April 07, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

KINDEREALM: APRIL SHOWERS


Children 3 to 6 with their adult companions learn how April showers prepare plants and animals for spring. A craft and hike are part of the program. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/18: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, April 07, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

WOOD HOLLOW HIKE


Join a naturalist for an afternoon hike on Downy Loop Trail. We will look for downy woodpeckers and other Ohio native wildlife along the way. WH

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 08, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

TROUT DERBY


Anglers 15 and younger each receive a $1 cash prize if they catch a golden trout. Bring fishing gear. A limited number of rods and reels will be available for use during the derby. Minnows cannot be used as bait; worms will be available for purchase. Adults are not permitted to fish. Sponsored by the Goodyear Hunting & Fishing Club and the Ohio Division of Wildlife. F/Little Turtle Pond

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 08, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: APRIL SHOWERS


Children 3 to 6 with their adult companions learn how April showers prepare plants and animals for spring. A craft and hike are part of the program. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/18: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 08, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

EGG-CITING EXTRAVAGANZA


Learn a little about eggs and how different they can look, and then hunt for hidden and camouflaged eggs to see what you find. SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 08, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

GEOLOGY OF THE GORGE


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur to walk Gorge Trail and learn how the Gorge was formed, including the different types of rock layers found there. G/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 08, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

KIDS YOGA & MINDFULNESS


Budding yogis (ages 7 to 10) celebrate International Kids Yoga Day. Join a certified instructor for a yoga and mindfulness class focused on connecting with nature. Weather permitting, this class will include a short hike. Wear comfortable clothing, bring a yoga mat or towel, and drinking water. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 09, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

WILD IN THE WOODS


All ages can stop by our nature play area at Liberty Park and 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/Twinsburg Ledges

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 09, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

MOTHER'S DAY HERBS


Come and spend an afternoon learning how herbs can help you relax. Participants will be able to take something home to give to a special woman for Mother’s Day, while supplies last. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Tuesday, April 11, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: APRIL SHOWERS


Children 3 to 6 with their adult companions learn how April showers prepare plants and animals for spring. A craft and hike are part of the program. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/18: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Tuesday, April 11, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

YOGA IN THE PARK


Enjoy an energizing yoga practice with a certified yoga instructor. Wear comfortable clothing, and bring a yoga mat or large towel and drinking water. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/24: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 12, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HIKE THE GORGE


Hike the rugged Gorge Trail and learn about the nature and history of the Cuyahoga River. G/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 13, 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 3/25: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 13, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

WEEKDAY WALKERS


Stroll along Indian Spring Trail with frequent stops to discover nature along the way. MF/Lake Area

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 13, 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM

WILD IN THE WOODS


All ages can stop by our nature play area at Liberty Park and 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/Twinsburg Ledges

Leaf Icon Friday, April 14, 7:30 AM - 10:30 AM

FRIDAY FIRESTONE FEATHERS AND FRIENDS


New and experienced birders may join Naturalist Pat Rydquist for spring bird walks along the Tuscarawas River migratory flyway. This is an excellent opportunity to see avian travelers on their way to summer breeding areas. Binoculars are recommended. All participants will receive a checklist and final tally of birds seen this season. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Friday, April 14, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

HOMESCHOOL: 21ST CENTURY FARMER


Homeschoolers, ages 7 to 10: Discover what it means to be an eco-farmer in today's fast-paced, technological world. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/31: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, April 14, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

HOMESCHOOL: 21ST CENTURY FARMER


Homeschoolers, ages 7 to 10: Discover what it means to be an eco-farmer in today's fast-paced, technological world. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/31: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, April 14, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

WHEN I GROW UP ...


Some baby animals look nothing like their parents. Search for some young and adult wildlife while hiking the trail with a naturalist. DLQ

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 15, 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM

DISTANCE HIKE


Shake off the winter blues and stretch your legs with a 6-mile hike at a continuous pace on trails that are difficult or primitive. There will be few, if any, rest stops. Please wear footwear appropriate for potentially muddy conditions and bring drinking water. SR/Treaty Line

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 15, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

WILDFLOWER HIKE


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur to look for dogtooth violets, Dutchman's breeches, toothwort, blue cohosh and other spring ephemerals along Deer Run Trail. ONW/Trail Lot

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 15, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

SUNSET HIKE


Join Naturalist Dave Brumfield on a leisurely hike along Old Mill Trail and (hopefully) enjoy a beautiful evening sunset. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 16, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

EGG-CITING EGGS


Whose egg is that? Explore different eggs and learn about the creatures they came from. FASN/Seneca Deck

Leaf Icon Monday, April 17, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

LIFE-SIZE SURVIVAL BOARD GAME


Walk around a life-size game board and test your survival skills! Choose which berries are safe to eat and decide how to fend off predators. But be careful! One wrong move will send you back to Start. Program moved indoors if it rains. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Monday, April 17, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: APRIL SHOWERS


Children 3 to 6 with their adult companions learn how April showers prepare plants and animals for spring. A craft and hike are part of the program. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/18: 330-865-8065. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Tuesday, April 18, 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

AKRON HISTORY HIKE: SKYWALKS


Tour leaders from the Summit County Historical Society and Summit Metro Parks will travel through the skywalks and highlight WWI monuments. Meet in the lobby of the Polsky Building. In case of rain, please bring an umbrella. Polsky Building: 275 South High Street Akron, OH 44308

Leaf Icon Tuesday, April 18, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

AMPHIBIAN HIKE


Spring is amphibian season! All ages may join us to take a hike in search of frogs, salamanders and toads. DLQ

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 19, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

ADVENTURE DAY CAMP


This program has been CANCELED. Please call 330-865-8065 with questions or for more information. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 19, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: APRIL SHOWERS


Children 3 to 6 with their adult companions learn how April showers prepare plants and animals for spring. A craft and hike are part of the program. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/18: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 19, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

FREE THE FALLS: BRINGING DOWN THE GORGE DAM


For 100 years, Gorge Metro Park has coexisted with a 420-foot-wide, 60-foot-tall dam. Now, that dam is being studied for removal. This presentation will examine the interwoven story of the Gorge Dam, the Cuyahoga River and the park itself, plus the benefits of dam removal. The tale is one of gravity and water, of scenic beauty and contamination, and of competing economies. Mainly, it is the account of how our vision for the Gorge has evolved. Cuyahoga Falls Library: 2015 3rd St. Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 20, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

ADVENTURE DAY CAMP


Kids 7 to 10 will enjoy this early spring adventure with fun, hands-on experiences. We will be exploring the park, doing a craft and learning basic outdoor skills. Pack a lunch and dress to be outside for long periods of time. Cost: $10. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/28: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 20, 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM

BIOMIMICRY: INSPIRATION FROM MOTHER NATURE


How can nature inspire and teach us? Join a naturalist to learn about the plants and animals that have inspired countless technological advancements before taking a hike in search of these creatures. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 20, 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

BEE & BEE OPENING


Celebrate Earth Day in the Bud and Susie Rogers Garden as the museum and Summit Metro Parks debut downtown Akron's first Bee & Bee. On New Year's Eve, First Night visitors contributed their rolled up wishes for the New Year, along with bottlecaps and other found objects, to help create niches for a bug condo that will be installed in the garden's Art Oasis this spring. The bug condo will provide shelter for insects, such as the bees and butterflies that make the garden their home. The box shaped niches of the Bee & Bee complement the museum’s architecture and the found objects echo artwork in the museum's collection by La Wilson and El Anatsui. Families can stop by the museum to celebrate with hands on art activities inspired by our insect friends. Akron Art Museum: One South High St. Akron, OH 44308

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 20, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

SUSTAINABILITY OPEN HOUSE


Lean how to become more Earth-friendly this Earth Week! Drop in to discover all things sustainable including single-use products, lawn and garden care items and cleaning products, among others. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, April 21, 7:30 AM - 10:30 AM

FRIDAY FIRESTONE FEATHERS AND FRIENDS


New and experienced birders may join Naturalist Pat Rydquist for spring bird walks along the Tuscarawas River migratory flyway. This is an excellent opportunity to see avian travelers on their way to summer breeding areas. Binoculars are recommended. All participants will receive a checklist and final tally of birds seen this season. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Friday, April 21, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HOMESCHOOL: 21ST CENTURY FARMER


Homeschoolers, ages 11 to 14: Discover what it means to be an eco-farmer in today's fast-paced, technological world. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/31: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, April 21, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

WALK LIKE AN ANIMAL


Bear crawl! Frog hop! Come out and walk like different animals as you learn about them. Program for ages 3 to 8 and their families. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 22, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

THE CUYAHOGA RIVER: A FIERY PAST


Many people recall the Cuyahoga River catching fire in 1969, but did you know that the river burned MANY times throughout history? Walk along the Crooked River and learn how its story of pollution and redemption inspired musicians, politicians, students and scientists, and shaped our nation’s history. G/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 22, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

WILDFLOWER WALK


Hike with Naturalist Sarah Putnam to see a gorgeous display of spring wildflowers on this easy walk. FR/Daffodil

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 22, 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM

EARTH DAY CELEBRATION


Join Summit Metro Parks and the City of Twinsburg for special Earth Day activities including live music, a guided hike, exhibits, an electric car display, and more. LP/Twinsburg Ledges

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 22, 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM

BIG BIRD NIGHT


Discover the amazing woodcock and attempt to witness the male bird's spectacular courtship flight over nearby fields, and then hike to search for owls. Bring binoculars and flashlights. SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 23, 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

COMMUNITY ART


Join our naturalist-artist for some creative fun and add your individual flair to our community art project. FASN/Seneca Deck

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 23, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

WHISPERS FROM MOTHER NATURE


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur to see what Mother Nature has in store for us as we look towards May in the Metro Parks and in your back yard. We will be using Nature's Notebook to track changes that we observe as spring kicks into high gear. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 23, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HERON WATCH


Join a naturalist to observe the nesting behaviors of one of Ohio’s largest birds, the great blue heron, through our binoculars and spotting scopes. Meet at the Bath Road Heronry on Bath Road, between Riverview and Akron-Peninsula roads in Akron. Bath Road Heronry

Leaf Icon Monday, April 24, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

CARDIO HIKE


Hike both the Highbridge and Chuckery trails at a vigorous pace. Beginners are welcome, but talk to your doctor before beginning any new exercise routine. Drinking water is recommended. G/Highbridge

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 27, 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM

WILD IN THE WOODS


All ages can stop by our nature play area at Goodyear Heights and 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, April 27, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

THE HISTORY OF GORGE METRO PARK


Join historians Peg Bobel, Linda Whitman and Megan Schaeffer to learn about the exciting history of Gorge Metro Park. From roller coasters to dance halls, this park once had it all. You’ll also learn about plans to remove the Gorge Dam and restore a free-flowing river. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, April 28, 7:30 AM - 10:30 AM

FRIDAY FIRESTONE FEATHERS AND FRIENDS


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur to walk the trails and see which birds have arrived during the spring migration. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Friday, April 28, 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

CROAKING CHORUS FROG HIKE


American toads and gray tree frogs join the nightly frog choir. Join a naturalist to learn and listen for their calls on this night hike along Wood Hollow's Downy Loop Trail. Please bring your own flashlights and wear waterproof hiking shoes. WH

Leaf Icon Friday, April 28, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

BLUEBELL VALLEY


Enjoy a hike along the river with Naturalist Sarah Putnam in the hope that we see a tremendous amount of bluebells and other wildflowers along the way. Everett Road Covered Bridge: 2370 Everett Rd. Peninsula, OH

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 29, 8:00 AM - 10:30 AM

HIKE & BREAKFAST


Enjoy a spring wildflower hike around Alder Pond followed by a delicious breakfast. Participants will be asked to contribute to the feast. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/1: 330-865-8065. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 29, 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM

GARLIC MUSTARD PULL


Growing, growing, gone! Learn about this invasive plant, then hike Seneca Trail and start pulling. Gloves are recommended. Bags will be provided. FASN/Seneca Deck

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 29, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

WILDFLOWER HIKE


Hike with Naturalist Dave Brumfield on Oxbow Trail to see which flowers are blooming this time of the year. CV/Oxbow

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 29, 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM

IN SEARCH OF THE ELUSIVE WOODCOCK


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur to look for woodcocks as they "dance" in the twilight. See how Summit Metro Parks has managed several acres of woodcock habitat in order to enhance the chances of seeing these interesting but elusive birds. SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 30, 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM

MORNING BIRD WALK


New and experienced birders learn the basics of identification and search for our colorful and sweet-sounding neighbors. MF/Tallmadge Meadows