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, May 02, 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

SPRING BIRD WALK


New and experienced birdwatchers can join a naturalist for this bird walk. Binoculars are recommended. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Thursday, May 03, 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

GOODYEAR HEIGHTS HISTORY HIKE


Hike with Naturalist Janean Kazimir to learn the history of Goodyear Heights Metro Park. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Friday, May 04, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: BIODIVERSITY


Homeschoolers, ages 7 to 10: Discover the great variety among living organisms and why diversity is so important to our ecosystems. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/20: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, May 04, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: BIODIVERSITY


Homeschoolers, ages 7 to 10: Discover the great variety among living organisms and why diversity is so important to our ecosystems. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/20: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, May 05, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

BLUE HERON HOMECOMING


Join Summit Metro Parks naturalists to observe herons and their young through our binoculars and spotting scopes. Bath Road Heronry

Leaf Icon Saturday, May 05, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

FISHING FOR KIDS


Kids 15 and younger can learn the basics of fishing, then drop a line at Little Turtle Pond. A few rods and reels will be available for use during the program. Bait is provided. Adults must supervise their children but are not permitted to fish. F/Little Turtle Pond

Leaf Icon Saturday, May 05, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

MOTHER'S DAY DROP-IN CRAFT


Stop by Seneca Deck any time between 2 and 4 p.m. to make a nature-themed craft for the mother figure in your life. FASN/Seneca Deck

Leaf Icon Sunday, May 06, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

BEGINNING BIRDERS: MIGRATION


Vireos, warblers, flycatchers, kinglets ... Overwhelmed yet? Beginners, have no fear! Learn the basics of identification with Naturalist Becca Zak and advanced volunteer birders, then stroll to catch a glimpse of spring migrants. Binoculars and field guides are recommended. Some will be provided. DLQ

Leaf Icon Sunday, May 06, 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM

HISTORY OF WOOD HOLLOW METRO PARK


Join a naturalist to learn about the history of Wood Hollow, one of our newest parks. WH

Leaf Icon Sunday, May 06, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

DANCING DARTERS AND REGAL RAINBOWS


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur as we look for the amazing variety of stream fish in Rock Creek. Participants will be in the creek netting fish for identification. Rainbow darters, green darters, stone rollers and creek chubs are just some of the beautiful fish we will find. Bring your water shoes and don't forget bug spray. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Sunday, May 06, 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM

KIDS YOGA


Kids, ages 7 to 12, and their adult companions join certified yoga instructors for this program focused on connecting with nature. Weather permitting, part of this class will take place outdoors and may include a short hike. Wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat or towel and drinking water. Some mats will be provided, while supplies last. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Monday, May 07, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

WEEKDAY WALKERS


Join a naturalist on a leisurely stroll to discover the bogs' birds and blooms. Binoculars are recommended. SFB

Leaf Icon Tuesday, May 08, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: ANIMAL MOMS


Children ages 3 to 6 and their families explore moms in nature. Includes a hike and craft. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/24: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, May 09, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

SPRING BIRD WALK


New and experienced birdwatchers can join a naturalist for a spring bird walk. We will be on the lookout for birds that are migrating through, coming for the summer, and for permanent residents. Binoculars are recommended. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Wednesday, May 09, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

APRIL SHOWERS TO MAY FLOWERS


Come out to search for the May flowers brought on by April showers. MF/Tallmadge Meadows

Leaf Icon Wednesday, May 09, 9:00 PM - 11:00 PM

STARRY NIGHT?


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur as we search for Jupiter and its moons. Jupiter will be at its closest approach to Earth and its face will be fully illuminated by the Sun. We may also see a stray meteor. Fingers crossed for clear skies! LP/Nature Center

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

WEEKDAY WALKERS


Enjoy this leisurely stroll along Deer Run Trail, with frequent stops to discover spring wildflowers and birds along the way. Binoculars are recommended. ONW/Trail Lot

Leaf Icon Thursday, May 10, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: ANIMAL MOMS


Children ages 3 to 6 and their families explore moms in nature. Includes a hike and craft. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/24: 330-865-8065. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Thursday, May 10, 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

MISUNDERSTOOD NATURE: RODENTS


Join a naturalist to hike and learn about some "gnaw-some" rodents and just how important they are to our ecosystem. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Friday, May 11, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

WILDFLOWER HIKE


Join Naturalist Dave Brumfield in search of woodland wildflowers along parts of Dogwood Trail. Portions of this hike are strenuous due to hilly terrain, so wear sturdy shoes and bring a hiking staff. SR/Shadowfield

Leaf Icon Saturday, May 12, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

WILDFLOWER HIKE


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur as we hike the hills looking for spring wildflowers and ferns. HH/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Saturday, May 12, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

SPECIAL NEEDS TROUT DERBY


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. Only special needs children and adults will be permitted to fish. Trophies will be awarded for the three largest fish caught by anglers 15 and younger. Sponsored by the Goodyear Hunting & Fishing Club and the Ohio Division of Wildlife. F/Little Turtle Pond

Leaf Icon Saturday, May 12, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

MOTHER'S DAY DROP-IN CRAFT


Stop by Goodyear Heights Lodge any time between 1 and 3 p.m. to make a nature-themed craft for the mother figure in your life. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Sunday, May 13, 8:00 AM - 10:30 AM

MOTHER'S DAY 5K


Run, jog or walk to celebrate Mom at this annual 5K to benefit the Summit Metro Parks Foundation! Jogging strollers are welcome on race day. Pet spectators are welcome, but not allowed on the course. Runners 14 and younger are free, but they must be registered in advance. For ages 15 and older, registration is $35/person through April 15. After, registration is $45/per person through May 12. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 3/2: Register here. MF/Lake Area

Leaf Icon Sunday, May 13, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HERON WATCH


Join Summit Metro Parks naturalists to celebrate Mother’s Day by observing herons and their young through our binoculars and spotting scopes. Bath Road Heronry

Leaf Icon Sunday, May 13, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

YOGA IN THE PARK: VINYASA


Enjoy a vinyasa yoga practice with a certified instructor. Wear comfortable clothing, bring a yoga mat or towel and drinking water. Weather permitting, program will be outside. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 5/1: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Monday, May 14, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

DISTANCE HIKE


Join a naturalist to hike 7-plus miles 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 stream crossings. Drinking water is recommended. CV/Chuckery

Leaf Icon Tuesday, May 15, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

SPRING BIRD WALK


New and experienced birdwatchers can join a naturalist in search of spring birds. Binoculars are recommended. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Wednesday, May 16, 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 5/5: 330-865-8065. SR/Shady Hollow

Leaf Icon Wednesday, May 16, 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. ONW/Trail Lot

Leaf Icon Wednesday, May 16, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: ANIMAL MOMS


Children ages 3 to 6 and their families explore moms in nature. Includes a hike and craft. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/24: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Wednesday, May 16, 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 5/5: 330-865-8065. SR/Shady Hollow

Leaf Icon Wednesday, May 16, 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM

WILDFLOWER HIKE


Search for wildflowers along Ledges Trail and discover some origins of plant names and past medical uses. LP/Twinsburg Ledges

Leaf Icon Thursday, May 17, 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM

REPTILES & AMPHIBIANS


Join a naturalist to learn about and look for reptiles and amphibians in Little Turtle Pond. F/Little Turtle Pond

Leaf Icon Thursday, May 17, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

SPRING PLANTING IDEAS & PLANT SWAP


Learn new ways to garden around your home. We will talk about a couple of creative planting possibilities and ways to contain plants that spread quickly, like strawberries. Please bring plants or seeds to swap that are in some form of a container. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, May 17, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

GOOD GARDENS


Join Master Gardeners Geoff Kennedy and Caroline Christian to discover some creative ways to engage children in the garden and get them excited about nature. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Friday, May 18, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

LATE BLOOMERS


Hike with Naturalist Dave Brumfield on portions of Chuckery Trail in search of the Miami mist and large-flowered bellwort wildflowers. Other wildflowers will be a bonus. Parts of this hike are hilly and strenuous. Meet at the second lot closest to the river. CV/Chuckery

Leaf Icon Friday, May 18, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: ANIMAL MOMS


Children ages 3 to 6 and their families explore moms in nature. Includes a hike and craft. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/24: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, May 18, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

KINDEREALM: ANIMAL MOMS


Children ages 3 to 6 and their families explore moms in nature. Includes a hike and craft. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/24: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, May 19, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

FLOWERS, FERNS & FUNGI - OH, MY!


April showers bring more than flowers. Join Naturalist Dave Brumfield on a hike to look for seasonal wildflowers, ferns and fungi. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Saturday, May 19, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

NATIVE VINES OF OHIO


Did You Know? Ohio is home to more than 20 native vines, and there are more natives than poison ivy or grape vines. Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur to learn which ones you can find in our parks and/or can be used in your landscape at home. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, May 19, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

WILDLIFE MOMS


May is for moms, including those with fur, feathers and scales! Hike with a naturalist to learn about the amazing wildlife mothers in our parks. SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Sunday, May 20, 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

WORLD TURTLE DAY


Join us to celebrate our shelled-friends, the turtles! Get to know the species found in our parks, play games, make a craft, and learn why turtles need our help. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, May 20, 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 5/8: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, May 20, 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 5/8: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Tuesday, May 22, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

AFTERNOON STROLL


Join Naturalist Elizabeth Kresse to hike Dogwood Trail in search of birds and blooms! Binoculars are recommended. SR/Wadsworth

Leaf Icon Tuesday, May 22, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

RANDOM ACT OF MUSIC


Weather permitting, the all-volunteer Metro Parks Ensemble will perform an hour of traditional marches, big band standards and oldies. Concert cancelled if it rains. If wet weather is in the forecast, call 330-865-8060 after 4 p.m. for status. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Wednesday, May 23, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

SPRING BIRD WALK


New and experienced birdwatchers can join a naturalist for a spring bird walk. We will be on the lookout for birds that are migrating through, coming for the summer, and for permanent residents. Binoculars are recommended. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Wednesday, May 23, 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 5/11: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, May 23, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

NATURE PLAY: MUD


Families with children: Meet at our Nature Play area to engage in fun, hands-on experiences with a naturalist. No mud? We'll make some of our own! Getting dirty is encouraged, so dress appropriately. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, May 23, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

NATURE CRAFTING FOR ADULTS: ODDS & ENDS BASKETS


Weave a basket with your own creative flair! Make your own design or choose from a few simple patterns. Materials fee: $10. Please bring a flathead screwdriver, needle-nose pliers, towel and 2-gallon bucket, if you can. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 5/12: Register here. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Wednesday, May 23, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

MEET ME IN THE GARDEN


Join the Master Gardeners of Summit County to learn about some of the most commonly-encountered weeds in Ohio. Presented by Denise Ellsworth, Program Director, Honey Bee and Native Pollinator Education, OSU. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, May 24, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

NATURE CRAFTING FOR ADULTS: ODDS & ENDS BASKETS


Weave a basket with your own creative flair! Make your own design or choose from a few simple patterns. Materials fee: $10. Please bring a flathead screwdriver, needle-nose pliers, towel and 2-gallon bucket, if you can. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 5/12: Register here. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Thursday, May 24, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM

SUNSET STROLL


Walk with Naturalist Janean Kazimir to enjoy a beautiful sunset over the meadow. MF/Tallmadge Meadows

Leaf Icon Friday, May 25, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: BIODIVERSITY


Homeschoolers, ages 11-14: Discover the great variety among living organisms and why diversity is so important to our ecosystems. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/20: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, May 25, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

DEAD FALL: THE ECOLOGY OF DECAY


Take a hike and examine life amid decay. Learn more about the significance of dead fall, rot, death, decomposers and how nature recycles itself. HH/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Friday, May 25, 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM

HIKE & FIRE


Join a naturalist for an evening hike on Ledges Trail, followed by a campfire. Marshmallows will be provided, while supplies last. Please bring a flashlight. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, May 26, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

PADDLE CLEANUP


Bring your own canoe or kayak that has current watercraft registration, and volunteer your time cleaning up our waterways during Boating Week while learning about safety on the water. We will weigh the debris collected. All participants must have a life jacket. Ages 13 and older only. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 5/19: 330-865-8065. NR/Lot C6

Leaf Icon Saturday, May 26, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

FISHING FOR KIDS


Kids 15 and younger can learn the basics of fishing, then drop a line at Little Turtle Pond. A few rods and reels will be available for use. Bait is provided. Adults must supervise their children but are not permitted to fish.  F/Little Turtle Pond

Leaf Icon Saturday, May 26, 8:30 PM - 10:00 PM

NIGHT HIKE & FIRE


Learn about animals that are active at night by enjoying a short hike, followed by a relaxing campfire. Participants may bring lanterns or flashlights for the hike. FASN/Campfire Area

Leaf Icon Sunday, May 27, 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM

DISTANCE HIKE


Hike more than 5 miles 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. Everett Road Covered Bridge parking lot: 2370 Everett Road Peninsula, OH 44264

Leaf Icon Sunday, May 27, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

BIRDS & BLOOMS


Hike along Old Mill Trail with Naturalist Becca Zak in search of wildflowers and songbirds. Binoculars and field guides are recommended. Some will be provided. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Sunday, May 27, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

AFTERNOON FISHING


Join Naturalist Becca Zak for an afternoon of fishing and fun! We'll learn the basics of fishing, then drop a line in Brushwood Lake. A limited number of rods and reels will be available for use. Bait is provided. Participants 16 and older must have a valid fishing license. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Sunday, May 27, 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM

HIKE FOR YOUR DINNER


Work up an appetite hiking the 1.3-mile Coyote Run Trail while volunteers make a delicious meal. After our hike we will return to the nature center to eat. Participants will be asked to contribute to the feast. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 5/4: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Monday, May 28, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

SCHOOL'S OUT COOKOUT


Enjoy a day off of school at Liberty Park! Families are invited to cook their hot dogs over a fire, and then explore the park through nature play. Condiments will be provided, but families are responsible for providing their own hot dogs. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Monday, May 28, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

CARDIO HIKE


Join Naturalist Becca Zak to hike both Pheasant Run and Chippewa trails 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. SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Tuesday, May 29, 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

NATURE PLAY: MUD


Families with children: Meet at our Nature Play area to engage in fun, hands-on experiences with a naturalist. No mud? We'll make some of our own! Getting dirty is encouraged, so dress appropriately. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Wednesday, May 30, 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM

AMPHIBIANS FOR KIDS


Children, accompanied by an adult, discover our slimy amphibian friends with a naturalist. DLQ

Leaf Icon Thursday, May 31, 9:00 PM - 11:00 PM

MARVELOUS MOTHS


Moths outnumber butterflies by about 20 to one. Join Naturalist Dave Brumfield to attract moths to a white sheet using black lights, and observe these insects' amazingly beautiful colors, shapes and patterns up close. Bring a flashlight and camera. Meet at Pioneer Shelter. GYH/Pioneer