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.

MarchAprilMay

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 01, 9:30 AM - 11:00 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 Monday, April 02, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: SLIME


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions learn how nature uses slime. A short hike and craft are included. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/30: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 04, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

BIRDING FOR KIDS


Kids and their adult companions, join a naturalist for a hike along Pheasant Run Trail while searching for various birds. Bring binoculars; a limited supply will be provided. SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 04, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

APRIL SHOWERS HIKE


Downpours, thunderstorms, gentle rain, fog: The month of April is known for one or more of these. So let's celebrate and hike in the rain. (Program will still take place in beautiful, non-rainy weather.) FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 05, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

WILDLIFE AND US


Join a naturalist to learn about our wildlife interactions. Participants will learn when they should or should not intervene with wildlife, how to best help an injured animal, and how to limit negative interactions. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 05, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM

FROGS: SINGING SEASON


Discover the source of all that racket! Get an up-close experience searching for amphibians with Naturalist Becca Zak. A headlamp or flashlight is recommended. Parking is limited, so registration is required. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/23: 330-865-8065. BHT/Young Road

Leaf Icon Friday, April 06, 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 3/23: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Friday, April 06, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: THE THREE R'S


Homeschoolers, ages 7 to 10: It's Earth Month! We'll talk about sustainability and excavate our garbage graveyard from October to see what decomposed. Come prepared to get dirty. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/27: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, April 06, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: THE THREE R'S


Homeschoolers, ages 7 to 10: It's Earth Month! We'll talk about sustainability and excavate our garbage graveyard from October to see what decomposed. Come prepared to get dirty. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/27: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, April 06, 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM

TAILING NIGHT TALONS


Naturalist Sarah Graham 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. MF/Lake Area

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 07, 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. CV/Chuckery

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

NATURE PLAY: ANIMAL HOMES


All ages can stop by our Nature Play area and engage in fun, hands-on experiences with nature and learn from a naturalist about animal homes and shelters. Getting dirty is encouraged, so dress appropriately. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 07, 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM

SPRINGTIME HIKE AND FIRE


Enjoy the sights and sounds of a spring evening while we hike Downy Loop Trail. Afterward, gather around the campfire to roast a marshmallow (while supplies last). WH

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 08, 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM

TREES IN SPRING


Learn to I.D. trees by spring blooms, bark, and twig arrangement with Naturalist Becca Zak along the river and in upland forests. Tree guides or dichotomous keys are recommended. CV/Oxbow

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 08, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

FIRESTONE HISTORY HIKE


Hike with a naturalist to learn the history of Firestone Metro Park. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 08, 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 3/24: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

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

WOODLAND WILDFLOWERS


Hike with Naturalist Janean Kazimir in search of delicate spring blooms and learn how some of these flowers got their descriptive, and sometimes comical, names. DLQ

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 11, 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/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 3/1: Register here. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 11, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

WEEKDAY WALKERS


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

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 11, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

SCHOOL'S OUT CAMPFIRE


Families are invited to spend an evening learning about night animals while enjoying a campfire. Marshmallows will be available, while supplies last. FASN/Campfire Area

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 12, 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/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 3/1: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 12, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: SLIME


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions learn how nature uses slime. A short hike and craft are included. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/30: 330-865-8065. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Friday, April 13, 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM

BEGINNER BIRDS


Are you interested in learning how to identify birds, but you're unsure where to start? Join a naturalist to learn the identifying characteristics of birds and how to begin distinguishing one bird from the other. G/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Friday, April 13, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: SLIME


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions learn how nature uses slime. A short hike and craft are included. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/30: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

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

KINDEREALM: SLIME


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions learn how nature uses slime. A short hike and craft are included. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/30: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, April 13, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

KIDS' FISHING


Calling all kids: Learn the basics of fishing, bait a hook, and drop a line in Alder Pond. A limited number of rods and reels will be available for use. Bait is provided. Participants 16 and older must have a fishing license. GYH/Pioneer

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

NATIVE BEES OF LIBERTY PARK


Did You Know? Seventy percent of all bees nest in the ground, and 90% are "solitary." Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur as we learn about some of the 455 different native bees found in Ohio, and learn the difference between bees and wasps. You'll also discover how you can improve native bee habitat so these important pollinators will continue doing their jobs. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 14, 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM

WILD SCIENCE


Why do leaves change color in the fall? Why is the sky blue? Learn the answers to nature's mysteries with easy science experiments. Dress to get messy! ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/31: 330-865-8065. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 15, 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM

WILDFLOWER I.D. FOR BEGINNERS


Hike Indian Springs Trail in search of spring blooms with Naturalist Becca Zak. Learn the basics of wildflower identification using "Newcomb's Wildflower Guide" and distinguishing features. Meet at the trailhead. MF/Lake Area

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 15, 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

OTTER OPEN HOUSE


Visitors of all ages are invited to celebrate the return of river otters to our waters! Learn about these playful creatures and where to find them through interactive displays, fun games, crafts and more. A naturalist will lead several short walks in search of otters along Buttonbush Trail. LP/Pond Brook

Leaf Icon Tuesday, April 17, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

FAMILY FISHING


Join Naturalist Becca Zak for some after-school fun! Learn the basics of fishing, then drop a line in Brushwood Lake. A limited number of rods and reels will be available for use during the program. Bait is provided. Participants 16 and older must have a fishing license. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 18, 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 4/6: 330-865-8065. SR/Shady Hollow

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 18, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: SLIME


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions learn how nature uses slime. A short hike and craft are included. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/30: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 18, 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 4/6: 330-865-8065. SR/Shady Hollow

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 18, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

BASIC WILDFLOWER I.D.


Beginners can hike with a naturalist and learn how to identify some of spring's most common wildflowers. HH/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 18, 8:30 PM - 10:30 PM

STARS OF THE SPRING SKY


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur as we look through our telescope at several planets and stars in the spring sky. Hopefully the clouds will stay away! LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 19, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

UPCYCLED CRAFT: PLASTIC BAGS


Prevent plastic grocery bags from going in a landfill by using them to create a take-home craft. Please bring your grocery bags from home. Some bags will be provided. SR/Shady Hollow

Leaf Icon Friday, April 20, 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM

WOODCOCK WATCH & OWL PROWL


Join Naturalist Janean Kazimir to discover the amazing woodcock and attempt to witness the male bird's spectacular courtship flight over nearby fields. Afterward, we will hike into the woods and play recordings of owl calls in the hope owls will respond. Patience and silence are essential. Recommended for ages 6 and older. No dogs, please. WH

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 21, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

WHAT'S SPRUNG THIS SPRING?


Join a naturalist to discover what is new this spring along Mingo Trail. We'll be searching for blooms, birds, and nature's beauty to discover what has already sprung this season. SR/Wadsworth

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 21, 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM

EARTH DAY CELEBRATION


Join Summit Metro Parks and the City of Twinsburg for special Earth Day activities including displays, guided hikes, live music and more. LP/Twinsburg Ledges

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

WILDFLOWERS OF THE LEDGES


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur as we celebrate Earth Day weekend by hiking the Ledges Trail to see all of the wonderful wildflowers that are in bloom. Squirrel corn, trilliums, ginger, and many many more will amaze you with their delicate beauty. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 22, 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM

SPRING BIRD WALK


New and experienced birdwatchers can join a naturalist for this bird walk in Liberty Park. Binoculars are recommended. LP/Twinsburg Ledges

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 22, 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Leaf Icon Sunday, April 22, 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 Monday, April 23, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

BLUEBELL VALLEY


Hike for a chance to see thousands of blooming bluebells! Along the way we will stop to see other spring wildflowers and any wildlife that may be out. Everett Road Covered Bridge: 2370 Everett Rd. Peninsula, OH

Leaf Icon Monday, April 23, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

BIOMIMICRY: INSPIRATION FROM MOTHER NATURE


Biomimicry, the art of solving problems by imitating nature, is a fast-growing science. Join Naturalist Janean Kazimir to discover what nature can teach us and to learn about the native plants and animals that have inspired countless technological advancements. SR/Shady Hollow

Leaf Icon Tuesday, April 24, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

AFTERNOON BIRD WALK


All birders, new and experienced, hike the meadow with Naturalist Becca Zak in search of spring migrants. Learn identification techniques by sight and sound. Binoculars recommended. MF/Tallmadge Meadows

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

CARDIO HIKE


Join a naturalist 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. HH/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 25, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

GEOLOGY OF THE GLENS


Walk along the Glens Trail and learn about the glacial geology of the area. G/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 26, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

WILDFLOWERS


Join a naturalist on Chippewa Trail to discover which spring wildflowers are popping up. SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Friday, April 27, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

WILDFLOWER HIKE


Hike with Naturalist Dave Brumfield on portions of Chuckery Trail to see which flowers are blooming this time of year. Meet at the second lot closest to the river. CV/Chuckery

Leaf Icon Friday, April 27, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: THE THREE R'S


Homeschoolers, ages 11 to 14: It's Earth Month! We'll talk about sustainability and excavate our garbage graveyard from October to see what decomposed. Come prepared to get dirty. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/27: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, April 27, 6:00 PM - 9:00 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 program. All equipment provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/12: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 28, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

BLUEBELL VALLEY


Enjoy a hike along the river with Naturalist Sarah Graham in the hope 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 28, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

MISUNDERSTOOD NATURE: BEARS


Even though black bears are elusive, we're bringing out their misconceptions and breaking them down. Join a naturalist to hike the Ledges Trail and learn about Ohio's growing population of black bears. LP/Twinsburg Ledges

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 29, 8:30 AM - 11:00 AM

SPRING BIRD WALK


New and experienced birdwatchers can join a naturalist for a bird walk around Alder Pond. Binoculars are recommended. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 29, 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM

WILDFLOWER HIKE


Enjoy a peaceful morning as we search for woodland wildflowers along parts of Old Mill and Rock Creek trails. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 29, 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 4/14: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 29, 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 Sunday, April 29, 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 4/14: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, 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 Monday, April 30, 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 4/12: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Monday, April 30, 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 4/12: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Monday, April 30, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

WEEKDAY WALKERS


Enjoy this leisurely stroll along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail with frequent stops to discover nature along the way. WH