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, August 01, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS FOR KIDS


Kids join a naturalist to learn about the crawling and slithering creatures found in our parks. Get up close and personal with some of our resident education animals before taking a walk in search of turtles, frogs and more in their natural habitat. FASN/Seneca Deck

Leaf Icon Thursday, August 02, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: OPOSSUMS


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions discover the wild and wonderful world of opossums. 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 7/24: 330-865-8065. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Thursday, August 02, 8:30 PM - 10:00 PM

BATS: CREATURES OF THE NIGHT


Mysterious and often misunderstood, bats are some of the most fascinating creatures of the night. Join staff to learn about these flying mammals. Nets will be set up to try to catch live bats for observation and data collection. The Nature Center will be open late for visitors to explore the exhibits inside. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Friday, August 03, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

WOODLAND MUSHROOMS


From mid-summer to late-autumn, a great variety of mushrooms may be found throughout Ohio. Enjoy an educational and fun walk with Naturalist Dave Brumfield to discover which mushrooms are out this time ofyear. SR/Shady Hollow

Leaf Icon Friday, August 03, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

INTRO TO 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 our outdoor 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 7/18: Register here. SC/Archery Range

Leaf Icon Friday, August 03, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: OPOSSUMS


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions discover the wild and wonderful world of opossums. 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 7/24: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, August 03, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

KINDEREALM: OPOSSUMS


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions discover the wild and wonderful world of opossums. 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 7/24: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, August 03, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

INTRO TO 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 our outdoor 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 7/18: Register here. SC/Archery Range

Leaf Icon Friday, August 03, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

FRIDAY NIGHT CONCERT: MOUSTACHE YOURSELF


Enjoy the French gypsy-style music of Moustache Yourself at this free concert, presented by the City of Akron. GYH/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 04, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

KIDS' FISHING


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 Sunday, August 05, 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM

CARDIO HIKE


Join a naturalist for healthy outdoor exercise by hiking Deer Run Trail twice at a vigorous pace. Beginners are welcome, but talk to your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine. Drinking water is recommended. ONW/Trail Lot

Leaf Icon Sunday, August 05, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

NIMISILA RESERVOIR KAYAK


Paddle a portion of Nimisila Reservoir with a certified instructor and a naturalist to learn paddle strokes, safety and see wildlife around the water. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. We suggest bringing water, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes loan of kayak, paddle, life jacket and instruction. Space is limited. Cost: $15/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 7/26: Register here. NR/Lot C6

Leaf Icon Sunday, August 05, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

NIMISILA RESERVOIR KAYAK


Paddle a portion of Nimisila Reservoir with a certified instructor and a naturalist to learn paddle strokes, safety and see wildlife around the water. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. We suggest bringing water, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes loan of kayak, paddle, life jacket and instruction. Space is limited. Cost: $15/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 7/26: Register here. NR/Lot C6

Leaf Icon Sunday, August 05, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

DROP-IN NATURE CRAFT


All ages can join a naturalist for nature-crafting fun in the shelter. A new craft will be presented each program this summer. Please dress for a mess. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, August 05, 9:00 PM - 10:30 PM

ZODIAC EXPLORERS: CANCER


This monthly program series explores the night sky for the zodiac constellation of the month with a mix of science, folklore, and personal reflection through journaling. The program takes place even if it is cloudy or raining. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Monday, August 06, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

CREEK CRITTERS FOR KIDS


Explore Rock Creek looking for the critters that live there. Closed-toe shoes that can get wet and dirty recommended. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Tuesday, August 07, 3:00 PM - 7:30 PM

MUSIC BY THE LAKE


Enjoy free lake swimming from 3 to 6:45 p.m. and a one-hour concert by the Metro Parks Ensemble near Sherman Shelter at 6:30 p.m. Concert cancelled if it rains. Call 330-865-8060 if wet weather is in the forecast. SC/Lake House

Leaf Icon Wednesday, August 08, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

SUMMER CAMP: WILD THINGS


Kids ages 9 and 10 can register for this exciting three-day drop-off camp. We will explore the exciting world of critters with fun, hands-on experiences in the outdoors. Cost: $50/child. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 4/10: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Wednesday, August 08, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

DRAWING OUTDOORS


Bring your drawing pad and pencils for an outdoor lesson in drawing. Beginners are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the program. Portable chairs and drinking water are recommended. Program will be cancelled during inclement weather. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, August 08, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

AFTERNOON STROLL


Join a naturalist for a stroll along Piney Woods Trail with stops to discover nature and history along the way. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Thursday, August 09, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Leaf Icon Thursday, August 09, 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM

LICHENS & MOSSES OF DEEP LOCK QUARRY


Hike Quarry Trail with Naturalist Elizabeth Kresse and discover the lichens and mosses that are found among the old stone quarries. DLQ

Leaf Icon Thursday, August 09, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

SHIRTS TO DYE FOR


Learn about natural dyes from local plants with a naturalist, then tie-dye a shirt using RIT dye. Bring a plain T-shirt and wear clothes that can get stained. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Friday, August 10, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

SUMMER CAMP: WILD THINGS


Kids ages 9 and 10 can register for this exciting three-day drop-off camp. We will explore the exciting world of critters with fun, hands-on experiences in the outdoors. Cost: $50/child. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 4/10: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

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

LI'L SPROUTS: SUN


Li'l Sprouts will learn why all living things need the sun. Recommended for ages 3 and up. Dress to get messy! ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 8/3: 330-865-8065. FASN/Seneca Deck

Leaf Icon Friday, August 10, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

FRIDAY NIGHT CONCERT: NIGHT SCHOOL


Enjoy the 1950s to 1980s music of Night School at this free concert, presented by the City of Akron. GYH/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Friday, August 10, 8:00 PM - 9:30 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 for their calls. SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 11, 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM

GORGE KAYAK


Paddle the Cuyahoga River at the Gorge to see towering rock ledges and breathtaking scenery from your kayak. Led by a certified instructor and a naturalist. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. We suggest bringing water, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes loan of kayak, paddle, life jacket and instruction. Space is limited. Cost: $15/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 8/1: Register here. G/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 11, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

TOUCH-A-TRUCK EVENT


All ages can touch and sit in more than 12 different Summit Metro Parks vehicles. Local law enforcement agencies will also bring vehicles, and food trucks will be on site. Akron Children's Hospital's Air Bear will make an appearance, too! MF/Lake Area

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 11, 12:30 PM - 3:00 PM

GORGE KAYAK


Paddle the Cuyahoga River at the Gorge to see towering rock ledges and breathtaking scenery from your kayak. Led by a certified instructor and a naturalist. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. We suggest bringing water, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes loan of kayak, paddle, life jacket and instruction. Space is limited. Cost: $15. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 8/1: Register here. G/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 11, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

DRAGONFLIES OF TINKERS CREEK


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur to document dragonflies for the Ohio Dragonfly Survey using iNaturalist. We'll search the Seven Ponds area of the nature preserve to see how many species we can find. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 7/27: 330-865-8065. LP/Tinkers Creek SNP

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 11, 9:00 PM - 11:00 PM

ASTRONOMY: PERSEID METEOR SHOWER


Witness the Perseid meteor shower, one of nature’s best shows in the sky. A program will occur on only one of these three nights, pending clear skies: 8/11, 8/12 or 8/13. Call 330-865-8060 after 4 p.m. to learn if a program is taking place that night. Bring a flashlight and chairs or blankets. SC/Lake House

Leaf Icon Sunday, August 12, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

FAIRY KIDS


Children 5 to 9 are invited to explore the Rock & Herb Garden in search of fairies. Each child will create their own fairy wand to take home and continue the fun! Meet at the Rock & Herb Garden. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 7/28: 330-865-8065. FASN

Leaf Icon Sunday, August 12, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

YELLOW NATIVE FLOWERS


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur on a stroll outdoors at Liberty Park Nature Center looking at goldenrods, sunflowers and other yellow native wildflowers. We also will be on the lookout for the native pollinators that help these plants. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, August 12, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

YOGA IN THE PARK: VINYASA


Enjoy a vinyasa yoga practice outdoors with a certified instructor. Wear comfortable clothing, bring a yoga mat or towel and drinking water. Program will be moved indoors in case of inclement weather. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 7/31: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Tuesday, August 14, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: OPOSSUMS


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions discover the wild and wonderful world of opossums. 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 7/24: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Tuesday, August 14, 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. NR/Lot C1

Leaf Icon Wednesday, August 15, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: OPOSSUMS


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions discover the wild and wonderful world of opossums. 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 7/24: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Wednesday, August 15, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

DROP-IN NATURE CRAFT


All ages can join a naturalist for nature-crafting fun in the shelter. A new craft will be presented each program this summer. Please dress for a mess. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, August 15, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

WEEKDAY WALKERS


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

Leaf Icon Wednesday, August 15, 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

NATURE PLAY: LET'S DIG!


Families with young children can stop by our Nature Play Area across from Pioneer Shelter to dig and look for critters in the soil. Dress to get messy! GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Thursday, August 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 8/7: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, August 16, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

BUGS FOR KIDS


Learn the basics of catching and identifying bugs. Some nets and jars will be provided. Adults must accompany their children. LP/Twinsburg Ledges

Leaf Icon Thursday, August 16, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

GOOD GARDENS: POLLINATORS


Discover the importance of pollinators and how to attract them to your garden. Tour the Community Garden to see our very own "insect condos." GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Thursday, August 16, 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM

NIGHT HIKE


Join a naturalist to enter the world of nocturnal creatures as we explore the trail at sunset. MF/Tallmadge Meadows

Leaf Icon Friday, August 17, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

HIKE & FIRE


Join a naturalist for a hike along Cherry Lane Trail to discover nature. Afterward, warm up by the fire. Marshmallows will be provided, while supplies last. FASN/Campfire Area

Leaf Icon Friday, August 17, 9:00 PM - 11:00 PM

BUGS OF THE NIGHT


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur to hunt the fields and forest edges for hidden bugs. We hope to find tree crickets, coneheads and katydids, among other insects. Bring a flashlight and bug spray. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 18, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

LATE SUMMER WILDFLOWERS


Experience the kaleidoscope of color at Springfield Bog as we hike and discover which late summer wildflowers are blooming. Participants may wish to bring a water bottle, sunscreen and a hat. SFB

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 18, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

FLINT KNAPPING DEMONSTRATION


Paul Wischt from the Cuyahoga and Chippewa Valley Archaeology societies will demonstrate the ancient skill of flint knapping and share the different spear points used by early Native Americans. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 18, 9:00 PM - 11:00 PM

MARVELOUS MOTHS


Moths outnumber butterflies by about 20 to one. Join Naturalist Dave Brumfield to learn how to use black lights to attract these amazing creatures, and for a chance to observe their beautiful colors, shapes and patterns up close. Bring a flashlight and camera for photos. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, August 19, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

SUMMER TREE IDENTIFICATION


Learn to I.D. trees by leaf, 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, August 19, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

BEGINNER STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING


Try stand-up paddleboarding, the fastest growing water sport, to get a workout and enjoy nature. A certified instructor and a naturalist will guide you. No experience needed. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. We suggest bringing water, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes loan of paddleboard, paddle, life jacket and instruction. Space is limited. Cost: $15/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 8/2: Register here. NR/Lot C6

Leaf Icon Sunday, August 19, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

BEGINNER STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING


Try stand-up paddleboarding, the fastest growing water sport, to get a workout and enjoy nature. A certified instructor and a naturalist will guide you. No experience needed. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. We suggest bringing water, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes loan of paddleboard, paddle, life jacket and instruction. Space is limited. Cost: $15/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 8/2: Register here. NR/Lot C6

Leaf Icon Sunday, August 19, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

SUNDAY CONCERT: AKRON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA


Enjoy music from the Akron Symphony Orchestra at this free concert, presented by the City of Akron. GYH/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Monday, August 20, 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM

SENSORY HIKE


Enjoy some outdoor therapy on a sensory hike! Savor a short, silent hike during which we focus our senses to hear bird songs, smell wildflowers and feel the earth underfoot. DLQ

Leaf Icon Monday, August 20, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

INSECTS AND SPIDERS HIKE


Join naturalist Janean Kazimir to discover the park’s beneficial “bugs” and use magnification aides to get close-up views. Program will begin in the shelter and include a hike on the accessible Meadow Loop Trail. Nets and jars provided for insect collection and observation.  MF/Tallmadge Meadows

Leaf Icon Monday, August 20, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

BACK YARD WATER CONSERVATION


Help protect your local environment starting right in your back yard! Join Summit Metro Parks staff to learn how native plants, composting, rain gardens and more can control erosion and enhance water quality. SR/Mingo

Leaf Icon Tuesday, August 21, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

INTRO TO JOURNALING YOUR HIKING EXPERIENCE


Remember your hiking experiences through journaling. Learn some basic techniques to get started. Bring a journal and camera (optional). ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 8/10: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Tuesday, August 21, 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. WH

Leaf Icon Wednesday, August 22, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

DRAWING OUTDOORS


Bring your drawing pad and pencils for an outdoor lesson in drawing. Beginners are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the program. Portable chairs and drinking water are recommended. Program will be cancelled during inclement weather. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, August 22, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

HOW ANIMALS SURVIVE


Kids come out and learn through games and activities how animals survive using their senses. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Wednesday, August 22, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

MEET ME IN THE GARDEN


Join the Master Gardeners of Summit County to learn how to incorporate herbs into the landscape, and into your cooking. Presented by Elizabeth Kresse, Summit Metro Parks. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, August 23, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

ARCHERY FOR SENIORS


Archery is one of the oldest arts still practiced today, and it's more accessible than ever. Seniors 55 and older can learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our outdoor 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 8/9: Register here. SC/Archery Range

Leaf Icon Thursday, August 23, 12:30 PM - 2:00 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 our outdoor 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 8/9: Register here. SC/Archery Range

Leaf Icon Thursday, August 23, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

YOGA IN THE PARK: HATHA


Enjoy a slower hatha yoga practice outdoors with a certified instructor. Wear comfortable clothing, bring a yoga mat or towel and drinking water. Program will be moved indoors in case of inclement weather. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 7/31: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, August 23, 9:00 PM - 11:00 PM

MOTHS OF MANY COLORS


Moths outnumber butterflies by about 20 to one. Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur to learn how to use black lights to attract these amazing creatures, and for a chance to observe their beautiful colors, shapes and patterns up close. Bring a flashlight and camera for photos. WH

Leaf Icon Friday, August 24, 9:00 AM - 10:30 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 Friday, August 24, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

HIKE THE HOLLOW


Summer days are quickly coming to a close. Join Naturalist Dave Brumfield on a leisurely hike to discover what is out and about this time of the year. WH

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 25, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

BEGINNER STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING


Try stand-up paddleboarding, the fastest growing water sport, to get a workout and enjoy nature. A certified instructor and a naturalist will guide you. No experience needed. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. We suggest bringing water, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes loan of paddleboard, paddle, life jacket and instruction. Space is limited. Cost: $15/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 8/16: Register here. NR/Lot C6

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 25, 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

INTERMEDIATE STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING


Join a certified instructor and naturalist to learn moving on the board, advanced paddle strokes and rescue techniques. Participant are required to have already completed our Beginner Stand-up Paddleboarding class. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. We suggest bringing water, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and wear clothes that can get wet. Fee includes; loan of paddleboard, paddle, life jacket and instruction. Space is limited. Cost: $15. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 8/16: Register here. NR/Lot C6

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 25, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

WOODLAND MUSHROOMS


From mid-summer to late-autumn, a great variety of mushrooms may be found throughout Ohio. Enjoy an educational and fun walk with Naturalist Dave Brumfield to discover which mushrooms are out this time ofyear. FASN/Campfire Area

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 25, 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM

COYOTE CALLING CAMPFIRE


Join a naturalist to learn the natural and cultural history behind some of the park district's most elusive and misunderstood residents: coyotes. We will roast marshmallows and play coyote calls, hoping that some might call back. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, August 26, 11:30 AM - 6:00 PM

NATURE CRAFTING FOR ADULTS: BUSHEL BASKET


Participants will create a bushel-style basket. Skill level: intermediate. Please bring a flat-head screwdriver, needle-nose pliers, towel and 2-gallon bucket, if you can. Cost: $35/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 8/18: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Sunday, August 26, 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

FALL HIKING SPREE KICKOFF


Get a head start on the 55th annual Fall Hiking Spree and meet a naturalist and mascots at Firestone Metro Park. Hiking forms will be available and Fall Hiking Spree T-shirts will be for sale. To receive your hiking shield, all other hikes must be completed 9/1 through 11/30. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Sunday, August 26, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

WOODLAND MUSHROOMS


A great variety of mushrooms may be found throughout our parks in late summer. Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur to hike the new Black Bear Trail to discover which mushrooms are out this time of year. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Monday, August 27, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

LATE SUMMER WILDFLOWERS


Stroll with a naturalist to discover the late summer blooms of Liberty Park. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Tuesday, August 28, 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. FASN/Onondaga Deck

Leaf Icon Wednesday, August 29, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

SUMMIT LAKE KAYAK


Paddle in the “Heart of Akron” on Summit Lake. Explore nature by water while discovering the marvelous history of the community, which surrounds the lake. Led by a certified instructor and a naturalist. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. We suggest bringing water, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes loan of kayak, paddle, life jacket and instruction. Space is limited. Cost: $15/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 8/2: Register here. TT/Summit Lake

Leaf Icon Thursday, August 30, 8:30 AM - 11:30 AM

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. Drinking water is recommended. LP/Twinsburg Ledges

Leaf Icon Friday, August 31, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

FERN WALK


Join Naturalist Dave Brumfield to learn about some of Ohio's native ferns and discover how to identify them by their structure and habitat. SR/Shady Hollow

Leaf Icon Friday, August 31, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

KIDS' FISHING


Kids 15 and younger can learn the basics of fishing, then drop a line at Alder 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. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Friday, August 31, 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM

FUNGI & LICHENS


Join a naturalist on a hike to find and identify species of fungi and lichens along Deer Run Trail. Edibles are not a part of this program. ONW/Trail Lot