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.

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Leaf Icon Tuesday, January 01, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

NEW YEAR'S DAY SNOWSHOE HIKE


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur for this New Year's Day program at Wetmore Conservation Area. A limited number of snowshoes will be available to use free of charge, or you may bring your own. Hot chocolate will be waiting for us afterward. There still will be a hike if snow conditions are not adequate. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/18: 330-865-8065. Wetmore Conservation Area Trailhead: 4653 Wetmore Road Peninsula, OH 44264

Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 02, 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 12/21: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, January 03, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

DAY CAMP: WINTER ADVENTURE


Kids 7 to 10 can enjoy this winter adventure with fun, hands-on experiences. We will be honing our tracking skills while exploring the park and looking for signs of winter animals. Pack a lunch and dress to be outside for long periods of time. Cost: $10. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 11/29: Register here. SR/Shady Hollow

Leaf Icon Thursday, January 03, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

INTRO TO ARCHERY FOR KIDS


Children ages 9 to 15 can learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our temporary indoor range. Program is 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 12/18: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Thursday, January 03, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

DAYTIME HIKE AND FIRE


Join a naturalist to discover what critters are out and about in winter and try your hand at feeding the chickadees. Afterward, warm up with marshmallows around a campfire. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, January 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. Participants 16 and older can learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our temporary indoor range. Program is for beginning and practiced archers. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Cost: $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 12/18: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

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

HOMESCHOOLERS: NATURE'S DEFENSES


Homeschoolers, ages 7 to 10: From quills to colors, nature has many ways to protect itself from threats and predators! Join a naturalist to discover the fascinating mechanisms of nature's defenses. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/15: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

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

ARCHERY GAMES FOR ADULTS


Ages 16 and older will play 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. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/18: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Friday, January 04, 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

SCHOOL'S OUT COOKOUT


Celebrate the start of another winter season! Bring your own hot dogs and buns to cook over an open fire, and we'll provide drinks and condiments. Then, hike with a naturalist to investigate how animals survive the winter. FASN/Campfire Area

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

ARCHERY GAMES FOR KIDS


Ages 9 to 15 will play 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. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/18: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

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

HOMESCHOOLERS: NATURE'S DEFENSES


Homeschoolers, ages 7 to 10: From quills to colors, nature has many ways to protect itself from threats and predators! Join a naturalist to discover the fascinating mechanisms of nature's defenses. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/15: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, January 04, 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM

MORE S'MORES CAMPFIRE


Come out and enjoy a winter campfire with a naturalist as you learn different s'more recipes. Bring unique recipes of your own to share, if you have them. S'mores will be provided while supplies last. FASN/Seneca Deck

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 05, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

POKÉMON IN THE PARKS HIKE


Join a Naturalist on a hike along Cherry Lane Trail to learn about Pokémon and their real-life counterparts while playing Pokémon Go. Please bring a device capable of playing Pokémon Go with the app pre-installed. FASN/Campfire Area

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 05, 1:00 PM - 4:00 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 12/18: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Sunday, January 06, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBIT RECEPTION


Join Summit Metro Parks for the opening reception of the 2019 Amateur Photography Exhibit. Meet the photographers, enjoy light refreshments and see the natural beauty of the Metro Parks through the eyes and cameras of folks like you. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, January 06, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

YOGA: VINYASA


Enjoy an active vinyasa yoga practice with a certified instructor. Wear comfortable clothing, bring a yoga mat or towel and drinking water. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/14: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, January 06, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

ZODIAC EXPLORERS: SAGITTARIUS


This monthly program series explores the night sky and examines the zodiac constellation of the month. The program is a mix of science, folklore and personal reflection through journaling, and will take place rain or shine. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Monday, January 07, 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

WINTER CRITTERS FOR FAMILIES


Families with young children: join Naturalist Becca Zak to learn about winter animals through hands-on activities in our Nature Play Area. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Tuesday, January 08, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

CARDIO HIKE


Start your New Year's resolution off strong while hiking 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-friendly footwear is recommended. MF/Tallmadge Meadows

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

KINDEREALM: EVERGREENS


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will learn about trees that stay green year-round. 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 12/28: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 09, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

WEEKDAY WALKERS


Enjoy this leisurely stroll along Deer Run Trail, with frequent stops to discover signs of wildlife and other winter wonders along the way. ONW/Trail Lot

Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 09, 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

KINDEREALM: EVERGREENS


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will learn about trees that stay green year-round. 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 12/28: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

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

KINDEREALM: EVERGREENS


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will learn about trees that stay green year-round. 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 12/28: 330-865-8065. TT/SLNC

Leaf Icon Thursday, January 10, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

HOT COCOA HIKE


Hike with Naturalist Sarah Graham to learn about local wildlife, and then warm up with a hot cup of cocoa. FASN/Seneca Deck

Leaf Icon Friday, January 11, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

WINTER TREE I.D.


How do you identify trees without leaves? Join us to find out as we walk part of Spring Hollow Trail. HH/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Friday, January 11, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

NIGHT HIKE & FIRE


Take a night hike in the winter meadow with Naturalist Becca Zak in search of nocturnal animals. Then, cozy up next to a fire in the shelter to listen to campfire stories. Bring a blanket and mug for hot chocolate, while supplies last. LP/Twinsburg Ledges

Leaf Icon Friday, January 11, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

TAILING NIGHT TALONS


Naturalist Sarah Graham will attempt to call owls using recordings, with the hope of a response. Patience and silence are essential. For ages 6 and older. No dogs, please. SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 12, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

PINECONE BIRD FEEDERS


Join Naturalist Dave Brumfield to make pinecone bird feeders to use this winter, then head outside to feed the birds from your hand. FASN/Visitors Center

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

SNOWSHOE OPEN HOUSE


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur to learn about the history of snowshoeing, try on a pair, and maybe even walk around the area! Hot chocolate and a campfire will keep us warm. FASN/Campfire Area

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 12, 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM

WINTER WILDLIFE HIKE AND FIRE


Join a naturalist to hike and discover wildlife that is out and about during winter. After hiking, join us for a toasty campfire. Marshmallows will be available, while supplies last. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, January 13, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

RAPTOR I.D.


Bring a mug and enjoy a cup of coffee or cocoa while learning how to identify our local raptors. We will cover hawks, falcons and other predators of the sky. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, January 13, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

NATURE FOR FAMILIES: WINTER BIRDS


Join this monthly hands-on nature exploration series for the whole family. This month we'll explore the world of winter birds. Be prepared to be outside for most the program. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, January 13, 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM

KIDS YOGA


Kids ages 7 to 12 and an adult companion can join a certified instructor for yoga focused on connecting with nature. Class may include a short hike. Wear comfortable clothing, bring a yoga mat or towel and drinking water. Some mats are provided.  FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Monday, January 14, 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM

WINTER BIRD WALK


Beginner and experienced birders join a naturalist on a leisurely stroll to search for the park’s winter residents. Afterward, try your hand at feeding the chickadees. F/Warner Road

Leaf Icon Monday, January 14, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

CREATIVE CANVAS


Everything is a canvas! Join our interpretive artist to create some amazing works of art using nature as our inspiration and re-purposed materials as our medium. Only requirements are a sense of humor and a great attitude. Cost: $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 1/5: Register here. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 16, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS


Join our interpretive 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 1/8: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 16, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

WILDLIFE TRACKS


Join a naturalist on a hike to look for tracks and other signs of wildlife. SFB

Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 16, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

WHO'S OUT HIKE


Come hike with a naturalist to see what the animals are up to on the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail.  WH

Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 16, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS


Join our interpretive 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 1/8: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 16, 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM

TWILIGHT HIKE


Many wildlife species are most active at dawn and dusk. Before you turn in for the night, take a hike to listen for nighttime sounds and observe who’s just waking up. DLQ

Leaf Icon Thursday, January 17, 3:30 PM - 5:30 PM

COPING WITH THE COLD


Hibernation may get all of the hype, but there are many ways animals survive and thrive in the winter months. Join a naturalist on a leisurely hike to discover the various ways that Ohio's wildlife makes it through winter. HH/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Thursday, January 17, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

ASTRONOMY FOR BEGINNERS: GETTING STARTED


Has the night sky ever intimidated you, but you would like to learn more about it? Then this is the program for you! Join Naturalist Elizabeth Kresse to learn the basics of astronomy and start your exploration of the world beyond! LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Friday, January 18, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: NATURE'S DEFENSES


Homeschoolers, ages 11 to 14: From quills to colors, nature has many ways to protect itself from threats and predators! Join a naturalist to discover the fascinating mechanisms of nature's defenses. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/15: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, January 18, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

SCAT & TRACKS FOR ALL AGES


Splat, tracks, fur and scat! Join Naturalist Becca Zak to look for the clues animals leave behind to answer the age-old question: "Who dunnit?" MF/Tallmadge Meadows

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 19, 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM

NATURE ART FOR TEENS


Do you have a creative spirit? Teens ages 13 to 17 join our interpretive artist for lessons in nature-inspired art. This is a drop-off program. Please dress for a mess. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/11: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 19, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

SOUP HIKE


Hike along the Towpath with a naturalist to learn about the historic hidden treasures in the area, then warm up with a bowl of hot soup afterwards. TT/SLNC

Leaf Icon Sunday, January 20, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS


Ages 6 to 12 join our interpretive artist for this lesson in nature drawing. Paper and pencils will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/12: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, January 20, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

BIRD FEEDING: ARE YOU SMARTER THAN SQUIRRELS?


Join a naturalist to learn the basics of feeding the birds. We'll discuss the best seed and feeders, and provide tips for identifying common winter birds. Learn abut Project Feederwatch and how to try to keep the squirrels away! FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, January 20, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS


Ages 6 to 12 join our interpretive artist for this lesson in nature drawing. Paper and pencils will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/12: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, January 20, 10:30 PM - 11:00 PM

VIEW THE BLOOD MOON: LUNAR ECLIPSE


Join us for an indoor talk about the moon, the eclipse and why it's called a "blood moon." After the talk we'll view the eclipsing full moon, then warm up with some hot cocoa. Program will only be held if conditions are right. Call 330-865-8060 after 4 p.m. the day of the program for status. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Monday, January 21, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

SCHOOL'S OUT COOKOUT


Bring your own hot dogs and buns to cook over an open fire, and we’ll provide drinks and condiments. Pie irons will also be available. Enjoy nature trivia while cooking and eating your lunch. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Monday, January 21, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

WOODPECKER FEEDER WORKSHOP


Join a naturalist to learn how to attract woodpeckers, nuthatches and other birds to your yard and create a take-home bird feeder, while supplies last. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 23, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HISTORY OF ICE HARVESTING


Join Naturalist Elizabeth Kresse to learn the history of ice harvesting. Discover why it was harvested and how it was used. TT/SLNC

Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 23, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

MEET ME IN THE GARDEN


Join the Master Gardeners of Summit County to learn about the many different kinds of bees of Northeast Ohio. Presented by Dr. Randall Mitchell, University of Akron Professor of Biology. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, January 24, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: EVERGREENS


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will learn about trees that stay green year-round. 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 12/28: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, January 24, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

WEEKDAY WALKERS


Join a naturalist for a 1.3-mile hike on Rock Creek Trail, with stops along the way to discover nature and history. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Thursday, January 24, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

KINDEREALM: EVERGREENS


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will learn about trees that stay green year-round. 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 12/28: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, January 24, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

A YEAR WITHOUT PLASTIC


Need a meaningful New Year's resolution? Try a plastic-free 2019! Join Naturalist Becca Zak for the start of her journey to do just that. You are invited to share your own ideas, tips and information to reduce plastics. SR/Mingo

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 26, 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 snowshoe hike. A limited number of snowshoes are available to use free of charge, or you may bring your own. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/15: 330-865-8065. SC/Cross Country

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 26, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

WHISPERS FROM MOTHER NATURE


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur to see what plants and animals will be growing, flying over, or waking up in February at Summit Lake and in the Metro Parks. TT/SLNC

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 26, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

ICE AGE OHIO


Woolly mammoths, mastodons and more! Enjoy a presentation and activities for the whole family while learning about Ohio during the last Ice Age. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Monday, January 28, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

COCOA AND A CRITTER


Children ages 3 to 5 are invited to come and learn about black bears through movement and sensory experiences. Hot cocoa will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/18: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center