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, April 01, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX


Get fit while you sit! Enjoy an online exercise session with a certified BalloFlex instructor. BalloFlex is a seated workout that incorporates the elements of dance and fitness together in a safe, low impact and fun system. It is designed for all ages and abilities! Zoom meeting ID: 849 6465 8634 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Monday, April 01, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

VIRTUAL: FOOLS FOR NATURE


Celebrate April Fools' Day by learning about some of the daring, sometimes foolish adventures naturalists took during the age of discovery. Zoom meeting ID: 812 5823 1664 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 03, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: ANIMAL BABIES


Children ages 3 to 6 can come learn about animal babies emerging in spring with a short lesson, story, and craft. Please make other arrangements for children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. SLNC

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 03, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

FEEDING TIME


Lettuce, worms, tomatoes and roaches...yum! Stop by the animal room and get up-close with our animal ambassadors as they eat a healthy lunch. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 03, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

CROAKING CHORUS: FROG WALK


Learn to tell several frog calls apart as we walk at sunset in search of these slippery singers. It's bound to be a hoppin' good time! Bring a flashlight if you wish. WH

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 04, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

SPRING INTO STORYTIME


Celebrate the season with a story craft and games especially made for 3 to 6 year olds. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 04, 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

KIDS IN THE GARDEN


Join us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron for this weekly gardening program for children of all ages. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what's growing and ready to harvest in the garden. SLNC

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 04, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

GOOD GARDEN TALKS: PLANNING YOUR VEGETABLE GARDEN


Join us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron and OSU Extension to learn about different methods and tools for garden planning. SLNC

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 04, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

LEGEND OF THE FIRE LIZARD


All ages can take a short hike in search of salamanders, then gather 'round the campfire to hear the tale of this special amphibian forged in fire that has captured the hearts of many nature enthusiasts each spring. Program will be moved to Seneca Deck if it rains. FASN/Campfire Area

Leaf Icon Friday, April 05, 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM

SPRING NATURE TALES


Spring is here! Young children and their adult companions can celebrate its arrival in an interactive, spring-themed story time. Make it a fun, family-friendly morning by exploring the park or visiting the nature play area after the program. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Friday, April 05, 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM

ECLIPSE EXPLORATION OPEN HOUSE


All ages are invited to drop in and discover the science of the eclipse and how to safely view the celestial event of a lifetime through fun hands-on demonstrations, crafts, a campfire and more. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, April 05, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

BUILD YOUR OWN BUTTERFLY


April showers bring May flowers! Get ready for the spring blooms by learning how to make your own flowers and butterflies out of paper. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/28: 330-865-8065. SLNC

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 06, 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM

SALAMANDERS, FROGS, AND LEECHES OH MY!


Join a naturalist as we explore vernal pools in the Pond Brook Conservation Area of Liberty Park. Learn the importance these pools play in maintaining a healthy ecosystem. Hear the difference between our native frogs and see some of our native salamanders up close! Boots are advised, as we will be walking off trail through very wet areas. LP/Pond Brook

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 06, 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

ECLIPSE EXPLORATION OPEN HOUSE


All ages are invited to drop in and discover the science of the eclipse and how to safely view the celestial event of a lifetime through fun hands-on demonstrations, crafts, and more. SLNC

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 06, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HIKING SPREE SHIELD ASSISTANCE


Is attaching the hiking spree shield more challenging than actually hiking the eight trails? Summit Metro Parks volunteers will gladly attach it for you at no charge. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 07, 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM

SELF-GUIDED: STORYBOOK TRAIL


Bring the family out for some exercise and fun springtime exploration as you follow a self-guided story trail based on the book “Toad,” by Ruth Brown. This experience will be available along Quarry Trail through April 28. DLQ

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 07, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

INTRO TO ARCHERY


Participants will learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our temporary indoor range. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be 9 years old and 50 inches or taller. Cost: $10/person. Registration required. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 3/29: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 07, 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

PRE-ECLIPSE SOLAR-BRATION


All ages are invited to drop in and discover the science of the eclipse and how to safely view the celestial event of a lifetime through fun hands-on demonstrations, crafts, music, a campfire and more. Experience the unveiling of a unique celestial themed community art exhibit. Light refreshments will be available. SLNC

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 07, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

INTRO TO ARCHERY


Participants will learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our temporary indoor range. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be 9 years old and 50 inches or taller. Cost: $10/person. Registration required. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 3/29: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 10, 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM

SELF GUIDED: BATS, A SUPER MAMMAL


Discover the secret lives of these gentle mammals, their benefits and how you can help them in your own back yard during an easy hike along the 0.6-mile Cherry Lane Trail through April 24. FASN

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

KINDEREALM: ANIMAL BABIES


Children ages 3 to 6 can come learn about animal babies emerging in spring with a short lesson, story, and craft. Please make other arrangements for children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 10, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

SUNSET AT NIMISILA RESERVOIR


Learn about the interesting history and diverse wildlife that inhabit beautiful Nimisila Reservoir as we watch the 7:54 p.m. sunset from the open-air shelter. Bring your favorite lawn chair, blankets and a warm beverage if you'd like! NR/Lot C4

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

LIL' SPROUTS


This biweekly program is designed to engage young children and an accompanying adult in the wonderful world of gardening. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what’s growing and ready to harvest! Adults are asked to actively participate with children during the program. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/3: 330-865-8065. SLNC

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 11, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

NATURE COLLAGE


Let's make a beautiful, nature-inspired collage using recycled paper! Join our interpretive artist for this easy, fun lesson. All materials will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/4: 330-865-8065. FASN

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 11, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

VIRTUAL: NATURE COLLAGE


Let's make a beautiful, nature-inspired collage using recycled paper! Join our interpretive artist online for this easy, fun lesson. A list of materials and a Zoom invite will be emailed after registering. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/4: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 11, 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

KIDS IN THE GARDEN


Join us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron for this weekly gardening program for children of all ages. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what's growing and ready to harvest in the garden. SLNC

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 11, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM

WOODCOCK WALK


Join us on a short walk to discover the amazing life of a common yet elusive bird, the woodcock! With any luck we'll experience the males' fantastical sky dance and listen to their strange noises. MF/Tallmadge Meadows

Leaf Icon Friday, April 12, 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

THE IMPRESSION THAT I GET


Bark is beautiful! Drop by and capture the unique textures of trees in cheerful crayon or classy charcoal as we enjoy Silver Creek Lake together. SC/Big Oak

Leaf Icon Friday, April 12, 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM

DRIVE-IN: ASTRONOMY NIGHT


Join a naturalist for a drive-in program on the science and history of our night sky. Learn what a lightyear is, why stars twinkle and how to identify planets, constellations and other objects. You will be in your car just like the old drive-in movies, enjoying popcorn while listening through your car radio. Arrive early to get a good parking spot! Weather permitting, we will scan the sky to see what might be visible after the presentation. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 13, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

KIDS' FISHING DERBY


Anglers 15 and younger each receive a $1 prize if they catch a golden trout. Please bring fishing gear. A limited number of rods and reels will be available for use during the derby, and bait will be supplied. Visitors are encouraged to bring a lunch if fishing the entire day. Adults are not permitted to fish. Presented by Wayside Furniture.  F/Little Turtle Pond

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 13, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

WILDFLOWER HIKE


Join a naturalist on a 1-mile hike for an up-close look at spring's beautiful wildflowers and learn how to identify these short-term visitors. FASN

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 13, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

INTRO TO CYCLING


Interested in cycling? Want to learn how to prep your bike, body and gear for the 2024 cycling season? Join us in collaboration with South Street Ministries to learn the basics of cycling. South Street Ministries will also be available to inspect bikes and offer assistance with minor repairs or adjustments. Meet at Maple Beach Shelter. MF/Lake Area

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 13, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

SOILS LAB


Get your hands dirty and learn a bit about the wonderful earth that supports our buildings and keeps our plants growing in this family-friendly workshop. You'll have the opportunity to run a variety of experiments to learn about soil composition and health. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/4: 330-865-8065. SLNC

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 13, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM

NIGHT NOISE HIKE


Discover the source of all that racket! Get an up-close experience searching for amphibians or other creatures that may be out and about under the cover of night. Please bring a flashlight and meet at Indian Spring Trailhead. MF/Lake Area

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 14, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS


Join our interpretive artist for this entertaining lesson in nature drawing for kids ages 6 to 12. All materials will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/5: 330-865-8065. FASN

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

SUNNY WITH A CHANCE OF RAIN


In Northeast Ohio, the weather seems to change every 15 minutes! Join a naturalist as we learn how to read the clouds to determine the upcoming weather. Learn about cold fronts, warm fronts, what to look for during tornado season and why wind plays such an important factor in our weather. LP/Nature Center

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

WETLAND WALK


Spring is here and it is a perfect time for birds and amphibians! Join a naturalist for a walk and take a look at this beautiful wetland area as Mother Nature wakes up. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 14, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

VIRTUAL: NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS


Join our interpretive artist online for this entertaining virtual lesson in nature drawing for kids ages 6 to12. All you need is a pencil and paper. A Zoom invitation will be emailed to participants after registration. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/5: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Monday, April 15, 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM

SELF-GUIDED: SPRING WILDFLOWER WALK


Welcome, spring! Hike Ledges Trail through April 28 to discover delicate spring blooms of all shapes and sizes. Interpretive signs will be posted along the way to point out these beauties and guide your learning experience. LP/Twinsburg Ledges

Leaf Icon Monday, April 15, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX


Get fit while you sit! Enjoy an online exercise session with a certified BalloFlex instructor. BalloFlex is a seated workout that incorporates the elements of dance and fitness together in a safe, low impact and fun system. It is designed for all ages and abilities! Zoom meeting ID: 849 6465 8634 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Monday, April 15, 5:30 PM - 6:00 PM

MAKING A MOSSTERPIECE


It's green, it’s fuzzy, it’s everywhere you look – but what is it? Come learn about moss and the wonderful ways you can integrate it into a garden of any size. SLNC

Leaf Icon Tuesday, April 16, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

SPECIAL NEEDS FISHING DERBY


Trophies will be awarded for the three largest fish caught. Only adults and children with special needs will be permitted to fish. Please bring fishing gear. A limited number of rods and reels will be available for use during the derby, and bait will be supplied. Visitors are encouraged to bring a lunch if fishing the entire day. Presented by Wayside Furniture. F/Little Turtle Pond

Leaf Icon Tuesday, April 16, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS


Join our interpretive artist for an entertaining lesson in nature drawing. Bring a sketchbook, pencil and a sense of humor. Beginners are welcome. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/10: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 17, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS


Join our interpretive artist for an entertaining lesson in nature drawing. Bring a sketchbook, pencil and a sense of humor. Beginners are welcome. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/10: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 17, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

VIRTUAL: NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS


Join our interpretive artist online for this entertaining virtual lesson in nature drawing. No experience is necessary; all you need are pencils, paper and a sense of humor. A Zoom invitation will be emailed to participants after registering. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/10: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 17, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

AFTER WORK BIRD WALK


Feeling like a caged bird after a day of work? Come stretch your wings with fellow birders for an afternoon stroll along the 1.6-mile Willow Trail. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 18, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS


Join our interpretive artist for an entertaining lesson in nature drawing. Bring a sketchbook, pencil and a sense of humor. Beginners are welcome. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/10: 330-865-8065. SLNC

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 18, 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: SPRING FOREST FLOOR


Homeschoolers, ages 7 to 12: Join us to explore the rich and complex life of the spring forest floor and the ephemeral wildflowers that bloom there. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/11: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 18, 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: SPRING FOREST FLOOR


Homeschoolers, ages 7 to 12: Join us to explore the rich and complex life of the spring forest floor and the ephemeral wildflowers that bloom there. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/11: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 18, 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

KIDS IN THE GARDEN


Join us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron for this weekly gardening program for children of all ages. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what's growing and ready to harvest in the garden. SLNC

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 18, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

WILDFLOWER WALK


Hike with a naturalist to learn about some of the common native spring wildflowers that call Sand Run Metro Park home. Dress for the weather and be prepared for a stream crossing. SR/Wadsworth

Leaf Icon Friday, April 19, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

SENIOR SAUNTER


Whether you're a senior by age or just want to appreciate the outdoors at a leisurely pace, join us for a stroll as we enjoy nature while flowers are blooming again. Bring a mug and enjoy a beverage and more nature conversation afterward. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 20, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

BIRDS & BLOOMS HIKE


Join us on a hike through Deep Lock Quarry Metro Park, designated as an Important Bird Area, in search of songbirds and spring blooms. Binoculars and field guides are recommended. DLQ

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 20, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

BIRD NERDS: SONGS N' CALLS


Newbies and experts alike are welcome to join us in this lively series for a fun, approachable discussion on a new bird topic each month. This month, we will get a little noisy and discover how birds talk to each other. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 21, 7:30 AM - 10:00 AM

EARLY SPRING MIGRANT BIRD WALK


Hike the river corridor in search of early migrating songbirds and discover why we should be listening to the “canaries in the coal mine.” Please bring binoculars and a bird guide. CV/Valley View

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 21, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

EARTH DAY WILDFLOWER WALK


Join a naturalist as we hike Ledges Trail in celebration of Earth Day! Along the way, we’ll discover the fascinating world of colorful, delicate spring wildflowers and the animals that depend on them. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 21, 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM

UPCYCLING FOR THE EARTH


Drop in to try your hand at turning one person’s trash into your treasure! In celebration of Earth Day, learn how upcycling can be a fun way to make something cool and help protect the earth. SLNC

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

EARTH DAY FOR KIDS


Earth is such a special place! Come learn why the planet we call home is so unique and how you can help make a difference. There will be educational activities, arts and crafts, and more. FASN/Seneca Deck

Leaf Icon Monday, April 22, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX


Get fit while you sit! Enjoy an online exercise session with a certified BalloFlex instructor. BalloFlex is a seated workout that incorporates the elements of dance and fitness together in a safe, low impact and fun system. It is designed for all ages and abilities! Zoom meeting ID: 849 6465 8634 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Tuesday, April 23, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

THE PRESENTS OF BIRDS WITH JEN BRUMFIELD


Join the Greater Akron Audubon Society to celebrate their 90th anniversary alongside Akron-born birding legend Jen Brumfield. Learn about their journey to being granted a Lifetime Achievement Award by the American Birding Association in 2021, an award given to birders who have completed a lifetime’s worth of exceptional work in promoting the cause of birding. Meet in the East Room. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 24, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: ANIMAL BABIES


Children ages 3 to 6 can come learn about animal babies emerging in spring with a short lesson, story, and craft. Please make other arrangements for children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 24, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

MEET ME IN THE GARDEN: THE INFLUENCE OF NATURE ON OUR WELL-BEING


Based on the book, "The Well-Gardened Mind," the presenters will explore and share the tremendous influence that nature, plants and being in the garden can have on our mental health. Learn about documented cases where nature has transformed lives. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 25, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

LIL' SPROUTS


This biweekly program is designed to engage young children and an accompanying adult in the wonderful world of gardening. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what’s growing and ready to harvest! Adults are asked to actively participate with children during the program. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/3: 330-865-8065. SLNC

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 25, 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

KIDS IN THE GARDEN


Join us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron for this weekly gardening program for children of all ages. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what's growing and ready to harvest in the garden. SLNC

Leaf Icon Friday, April 26, 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM

SPRING NATURE TALES


Young children and their adult companions can celebrate spring in an interactive, spring-themed story time. Make it a fun, family-friendly morning by exploring the park or visiting the nature play area after the program. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Friday, April 26, 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM

FRIDAY NIGHT FROGS


Venture out on a night hike in search of frogs and discover the important roles amphibians play in our world. Please bring a headlamp or flashlight. SR/Big Bend

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 27, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

WEEDS IN THE WILD


No matter how hard we try, all sorts of creeping and climbing greenery sneak into our gardens. However, that's not the only place these weeds can be found. Join a naturalist led hike to gain a greater understanding of these plants by finding them in the wild. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 27, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

SPRING BIRD WALK


Enjoy a walk along Bluebird Trail as we look for and talk about the arriving spring birds. Afterwards we will try our hand at feeding the chickadees.  LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 28, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

AMPHIBIAN ADVENTURE


Get an up-close experience searching for amphibians and other water-loving creatures. We'll learn what makes them slimy, small and special. Be prepared to get wet. Closed-toe water shoes required. SC/Big Oak

Leaf Icon Monday, April 29, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX


Get fit while you sit! Enjoy an online exercise session with a certified BalloFlex instructor. BalloFlex is a seated workout that incorporates the elements of dance and fitness together in a safe, low impact and fun system. It is designed for all ages and abilities! Zoom meeting ID: 849 6465 8634 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Tuesday, April 30, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

WARBLER WARM UP


Join a naturalist as we get ready for warbler season and the Biggest Week in American Birding! We will review the basics of warbler identification and other important tidbits about our feathered friends. There will be several specimens preserved by taxidermy to provide a bird's eye view of the many species that will be migrating through in the coming weeks. This program is designed for all levels of birding experience. LP/Nature Center