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 Thursday, February 01, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

OWL PROWL


Explore for owls with Naturalist Elizabeth Kresse. Patience and silence are essential. Program for ages 6 and older. No dogs, please. SC/Pheasant Run

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

GROUNDHOG DAY HIKE


Join a naturalist to hike along Willow Trail as we look for and talk about groundhogs and their folklore. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Friday, February 02, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: GREAT MIGRATIONS


Homeschoolers, ages 7 to 10: With the beat of a wing, the splash of a flipper, or the stomp of a hoof, they’re off! Learn about the wonders of animal migration. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/30: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, February 02, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: GREAT MIGRATIONS


Homeschoolers, ages 7 to 10: With the beat of a wing, the splash of a flipper, or the stomp of a hoof, they’re off! Learn about the wonders of animal migration. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/30: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 03, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

BIRD OF PREY I.D.


It's a hawk! It's a vulture! It's an osprey! It's a ... bird of prey! Join a naturalist at our birding window to learn how to identify various birds of prey in flight and at rest. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 03, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

LEARN HOW TO ICE FISH


Join a naturalist to learn how to ice fish during the coldest months. Children under 16 can fish without a license, however adults must have a current fishing license. Call 330-865-8060 after 10 o'clock this morning to learn whether conditions will allow us to get onto the ice for this catch-and-release program. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/27: 330-865-8065. LP/Tinkers Creek

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 04, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

COFFEE WITH THE BIRDS


Join naturalist Cassie Hall 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, February 04, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

RE-PURPOSED BIRD FEEDER WORKSHOP


Join a naturalist to learn how to attract birds to your yard in winter, and create a take-home bird feeder out of re-purposed materials, while supplies last. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 04, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

SHADY HOLLOW OPEN HOUSE


Get a sneak peek at our new reservable facility. The beautiful building – with vaulted ceilings, a wood-burning fireplace, air conditioning, an outdoor patio and more – may be reserved up to a year in advance, for a fee, for reunions, parties and other gatherings. The new lodge replaces a small, cabin-styled structure that was lost to an accidental fire in February 2016. SR/Shady Hollow

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 04, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

WINTER WILDLIFE TRACKS


Who left these footprints? Make some tracks of your own while we discover signs of wildlife along the trail. WH

Leaf Icon Monday, February 05, 2:30 PM - 5:00 PM

NATURE CRAFTING FOR ADULTS: GATHERING BASKETS


Weave a gathering basket that measures 4" H x 16" L x 10.5" W, with a 10" handle. Please bring a small flathead screwdriver, needle-nose pliers, towel and 2-gallon bucket, if you can. Cost: $15/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/23: 330-865-8065. SR/Shady Hollow

Leaf Icon Monday, February 05, 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM

NATURE CRAFTING FOR ADULTS: GATHERING BASKETS


Weave a gathering basket that measures 4" H x 16" L x 10.5" W, with a 10" handle. Please bring a small flathead screwdriver, needle-nose pliers, towel and 2-gallon bucket, if you can. Cost: $15/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/23: 330-865-8065. SR/Shady Hollow

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 07, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

WATERFOWL WARM-UP: DABBLERS


Join Naturalist Elizabeth Kresse for the first of two programs on identifying permanent and migrating waterfowl. Good for new and experienced birders. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 08, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: NATURE FRIENDS


Children ages 3 to 6 will learn how plants and animals help each other. 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 2/2: 330-865-8065. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 08, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

WEEKDAY WALKERS


Enjoy this leisurely stroll along the 1.2-mile Pheasant Run Trail, with frequent stops to discover nature along the way. SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 08, 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

SNOW MUCH FUN


Children of all ages are welcome to join us for some fun in the snow at our Nature Play area along Maple Loop Trail. If there is no snow, we will still have fun creating our own "snow" inside the shelter. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Friday, February 09, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: NATURE FRIENDS


Children ages 3 to 6 will learn how plants and animals help each other. 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 2/2: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, February 09, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

KINDEREALM: NATURE FRIENDS


Children ages 3 to 6 will learn how plants and animals help each other. 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 2/2: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 10, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HISTORY & GEOLOGY OF DEEP LOCK QUARRY


Hike through Deep Lock Quarry and learn about the rich history and geology of the park. DLQ

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 10, 4:00 PM - 5:30 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, February 11, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

THE BEAR TRUTH


Hike to a cave to learn the truth about our biggest furry neighbor, the black bear. Afterward, enjoy hot cocoa in the nature center, while supplies last. LP/Nature Center

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

NATURE PLAY: GROUNDHOGS


All ages can stop by our Nature Play area along Maple Loop Trail to engage in fun, hands-on activities about groundhogs. LP/Twinsburg Ledges

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 11, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HIDDEN HISTORY: HONEYWELL DRIVE


Join Naturalist Elizabeth Kresse to learn about one of the hidden treasures in our area, Honeywell Drive. This special place was home to many African-American and Appalachian families from the mid-1940s until the 1970s. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 11, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

SNOWSHOE HIKE


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur to snowshoe in Wetmore Conservation Area. A few snowshoes will be available to use free of charge (please call for sizes), or you may bring your own. There still will be a hike if snow conditions are not adequate. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/3: 330-865-8065. Wetmore Conservation Area: 4653 Wetmore Rd. Peninsula, OH 44264

Leaf Icon Monday, February 12, 3:00 PM - 4:30 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. Snow and ice footwear recommended. MF/Tallmadge Meadows

Leaf Icon Monday, February 12, 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

SHADY HOLLOW OPEN HOUSE


Get a sneak peek at our new reservable facility. The beautiful building – with vaulted ceilings, a wood-burning fireplace, air conditioning, an outdoor patio and more – may be reserved up to a year in advance, for a fee, for reunions, parties and other gatherings. The new lodge replaces a small, cabin-styled structure that was lost to an accidental fire in February 2016. SR/Shady Hollow

Leaf Icon Tuesday, February 13, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: NATURE FRIENDS


Children ages 3 to 6 will learn how plants and animals help each other. 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 2/2: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Tuesday, February 13, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

YOGA: VINYASA


Enjoy an active vinyasa yoga practice with a certified instructor. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/26: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 14, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS


Join our interpretive artist at the newly constructed Shady Hollow Lodge 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 2/6: 330-865-8065. SR/Shady Hollow

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 14, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: NATURE FRIENDS


Sorry, this program has been cancelled. Please call 330-865-8065 with questions. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 14, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS


Join our interpretive artist at the newly constructed Shady Hollow Lodge 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 2/6: 330-865-8065. SR/Shady Hollow

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 14, 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM

"LOVE IS IN THE AIR" HIKE


Join a naturalist on this Valentine’s Day hike to learn how some of our animal neighbors show their affection for one another. ONW/Trail Lot

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 15, 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

SCAT & TRACKS FOR KIDS


Calling all kids! Learn about identifying tracks and scat, then search for things that animals have left behind. Adults must accompany their children. MF/Tallmadge Meadows

Leaf Icon Friday, February 16, 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 2/9: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Friday, February 16, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

WEEKDAY WALKERS


Enjoy this walk along Alder Trail, with frequent stops to discover nature and history along the way. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Friday, February 16, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: GREAT MIGRATIONS


Homeschoolers, ages 11 to 14: With the beat of a wing, the splash of a flipper, or the stomp of a hoof, they’re off! Learn about the wonders of animal migration. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/30: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 17, 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 few snowshoes will be available to use free of charge (please call for sizes), or you may bring your own. 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 2/3: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 17, 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 was harder than completing the hikes. Volunteers will gladly attach it for you at no charge.  FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 17, 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM

WINTER WILDLIFE HIKE & FIRE


Enjoy an early evening hike to see wildlife that may be out and about. After hiking, join us for a toasty campfire. Marshmallows will be available, while supplies last. FASN/Campfire Area

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 17, 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM

ASTRONOMY: THE WINTER CIRCLE


Come to Springfield Bog to discover the constellations of winter. No stars? We'll hike instead. SFB

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

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 Sunday, February 18, 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 2/13: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

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

HIBERNATION FOR KIDS


Kids learn the basics of hibernation, play a game and take a short hike in search of some furry friends. Afterward, all are invited to warm up by a campfire. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 18, 2:00 PM - 3:30 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 2/13: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Monday, February 19, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

GREAT BACKYARD BIRD COUNT


Join a naturalist at the bird window to become a citizen scientist! We will identify our feathered neighbors, learn why they are important and enjoy coffee and hot cocoa, while supplies last. Please bring a mug. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Monday, February 19, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

BIRDS & COCOA


Stop in to learn about feeding winter birds, and make a simple bird feeder of your own. Then, try hand-feeding the birds along the trail with Naturalist Becca Zak. Program for all ages. Hot cocoa will be available, while supplies last. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Monday, February 19, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

CARDIO HIKE


Hike about four miles at a fast pace with a naturalist. Beginners are welcome, but talk to your doctor before beginning any new exercise routine. Drinking water is recommended. Meet in front of the visitors center. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Monday, February 19, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

SCHOOL'S OUT COOKOUT & NATURE PLAY


Bring your own hot dogs and buns to cook over an open fire, and we’ll provide drinks and condiments. Enjoy Nature Play area after eating your lunch. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Tuesday, February 20, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HERON OPEN HOUSE


Celebrate the return of great blue herons while viewing them through spotting scopes and binoculars. Meet at the Bath Road Heronry on Bath Road, between Riverview and Akron-Peninsula roads in Akron. Bath Road Heronry: , OH

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 21, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

EARLY BLOOMERS


Winter is not for the weary. Hike a section of Valley Link Trail with Naturalist Becca Zak in search of early bloomers that are tough enough to deal with winter's cold. SR/Lone Spruce

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 21, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

WATERFOWL WARM-UP: DIVERS


Join Naturalist Elizabeth Kresse for the second of two programs on identifying permanent and migrating waterfowl. Good for new and experienced birders. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 22, 8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

MISUNDERSTOOD NATURE: RACCOONS


Many may see raccoons out in the wild, but few know just how unique and impressive these nocturnal creatures really are. Join a naturalist on an early morning hike to break down some common misconceptions about these critters. CV/Schumacher Valley

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 22, 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 23, 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM

ARCHERY FOR COUPLES


Join us for this special introductory program! Couples can learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship together at our temporary indoor range. Program good for beginning and practiced archers. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Participants must be at least 18. Cost: $15/couple. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 2/8: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Friday, February 23, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

ARCHERY FOR COUPLES


Join us for this special introductory program! Couples can learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship together at our temporary indoor range. Program good for beginning and practiced archers. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Participants must be at least 18. Cost: $15/couple. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 2/8: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 24, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

WINTER BIRD HIKE


Join Naturalist Dave Brumfield to search for birds that reside in Ohio year-round, along with winter's winged visitors. Bring binoculars and dress for the weather. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 24, 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. Cost: $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 2/8: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 24, 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. Cost: $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 2/8: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 25, 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, February 25, 12:00 PM - 1:30 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: Free. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 2/15: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

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

PLANT NATIVE


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur as we learn how to cultivate and use native plants from our area. Discover how to incorporate them in your landscape, their benefits to birds and insects, and what to look for when buying native plants and shrubs. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 25, 2:00 PM - 3:30 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. Cost: Free. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 2/15: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Monday, February 26, 12:00 PM - 3:00 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 2/16: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Tuesday, February 27, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM

FULL MOON SNOWSHOE HIKE


Enjoy the full moon reflecting off the snow while snowshoeing with Naturalist Joe Malmisur. A few snowshoes will be available to use free of charge (please call for sizes), or you may bring your own. Hot chocolate and a warm fire will be waiting for us afterward. There still will be a hike if snow conditions are not adequate. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/20: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 28, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

AFTERNOON STROLL


Join Naturalist Elizabeth Kresse on a relaxing afternoon walk to learn about the nature and history of Deep Lock Quarry. DLQ

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 28, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

HIKE FOR YOUR DINNER


Work up an appetite while hiking the Old Mill and Rock Creek trails as cooking volunteers make a delicious meal. After our hike, we will return to Brushwood Lodge to enjoy a well-deserved dinner. Participants will contribute to the feast. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/17: 330-865-8065. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 28, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

CALLING ALL COYOTES


Join a naturalist for a short presentation to learn all about a misunderstood mammal, the coyote. Afterward, we will go on a quiet hike to listen to their calls. SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 28, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

MEET ME IN THE GARDEN


Join the Master Gardeners of Summit County to learn ways to use native plants in a low-maintenance landscape. Presented by Ohio Prairie Nursery outreach educator Barb Holtz. FASN/Visitors Center