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 Friday, March 01, 8:30 PM - 10:00 PM

AMPHIBIAN MIGRATION


Join naturalists as we attempt to witness the annual amphibian migration across Sand Run Parkway. To enhance your experience and to keep the wildlife safe, there will be a limited number of participants per program, so registration is required. To find out when a program is taking place, follow us on social media or call 330-865-8065 for the latest information. Programs occur when conditions are just right for the creatures to move: light rain, temperatures above 50 degrees and darkness. On the day that a program is announced, simply register by phone for this FREE program by calling 330-865-8065. SR/Old Portage

Leaf Icon Saturday, March 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 2/22: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, March 02, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HIKING SPREE SHIELD ASSISTANCE


Is attaching the hiking spree shield more challenging than actually hiking the eight trails? Summit Metro Parks volunteers will gladly attach it for you at no charge. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, March 02, 3:00 PM - 3:30 PM

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 2/22: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, March 03, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

NATURE FOR FAMILIES: SPRING EMERGES


Join this hands-on nature exploration series for the whole family. This month we'll explore nature as it emerges for spring. We will be outside for most the program. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, March 03, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

ZODIAC EXPLORERS: AQUARIUS


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

Leaf Icon Sunday, March 03, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

YOGA: VINYASA


Enjoy an active vinyasa yoga practice with a certified instructor. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/23: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Monday, March 04, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

PRESCHOOL EXPLORERS


Get outside and enjoy nature through this monthly series for children ages 3 to 5. Each month we will explore a seasonal topic that will engage the senses and encourage self-exploration. Program will be outside, so please dress for the weather. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Tuesday, March 05, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

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. Drinking water is recommended. SC/Big Oak

Leaf Icon Wednesday, March 06, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

HISTORY HIKE


Hike with a naturalist and learn about the history of Silver Creek Metro Park. SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Wednesday, March 06, 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

KINDEREALM: MAPLE SUGARING


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions can learn how maple syrup is made. 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 2/26: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Thursday, March 07, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

WOMEN OF SUMMIT METRO PARKS


Celebrate Women's History Month by learning the history, stories and impact the women of Summit Metro Parks make at work and in their communities. Join Naturalist Becca for a short presentation followed by a panel discussion. Bring your questions and positivity! FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, March 08, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

NIGHT HIKE


Experience the sights and sounds of nature at night with Naturalist Becca. Bring a flashlight to help investigate! MF/Tallmadge Meadows

Leaf Icon Saturday, March 09, 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM

NATURE ART FOR TEENS


Do you have a creative spirit? Teens ages 13 to 17 can 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 2/22: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, March 09, 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM

WHAT'S THE BUZZ ABOUT BUZZARDS?


Come to our open house to learn the history of Ohio's Buzzard Day and the value of buzzards (a.k.a. turkey vultures). Get up close to a special guest from Lake Metroparks: a live turkey vulture! LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, March 09, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

AFTERNOON HIKE & FIRE


Take a hike on Cherry Lane Trail to see what nature is up to as spring approaches, then warm up by a fire. Feel free to bring a snack. Marshmallows and roasting sticks will be provided while supplies last. FASN/Campfire Area

Leaf Icon Sunday, March 10, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS


Ages 6 to 12 can join our interpretive artist for this lesson in nature drawing. Paper and pencils will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/2: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, March 10, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HIKING SPREE SHIELD ASSISTANCE


Is attaching the hiking spree shield more challenging than actually hiking the eight trails? Summit Metro Parks volunteers will gladly attach it for you at no charge. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, March 10, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HISTORY OF MAPLE SUGARING


Discover the history of maple sugaring, from techniques used by Native Americans to current technology that helps us enjoy the sweet syrup even faster. Samples of maple syrup will be available while supplies last. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, March 10, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS


Ages 6 to 12 can join our interpretive artist for this lesson in nature drawing. Paper and pencils will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/2: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Tuesday, March 12, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: MAPLE SUGARING


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions can learn how maple syrup is made. 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 2/26: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, March 13, 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 3/5: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, March 13, 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 3/5: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, March 13, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

SAND RUN FOR THE FUTURE


Become familiar with the watershed right in your back yard! Enjoy a short, hands-on presentation with Naturalist Becca, then take a hike to discover a dynamic watershed that needs our help. SR/Mingo

Leaf Icon Thursday, March 14, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

WEEKDAY WALKERS


Join a naturalist for a leisurely stroll on Quarry Trail with stops along the way to discover nature and history. DLQ

Leaf Icon Thursday, March 14, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: MAPLE SUGARING


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions can learn how maple syrup is made. 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 2/26: 330-865-8065. TT/SLNC

Leaf Icon Friday, March 15, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: THE "TOOTH" ABOUT RODENTS


Homeschoolers ages 7 to 10: From mice and squirrels to groundhogs and beaver, rodents are everywhere! Find out why these big-toothed critters are an important part of the animal world. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/1: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, March 15, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: THE "TOOTH" ABOUT RODENTS


Homeschoolers ages 7 to 10: From mice and squirrels to groundhogs and beaver, rodents are everywhere! Find out why these big-toothed critters are an important part of the animal world. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/1: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, March 15, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM

WOODCOCK WATCH AND OWL PROWL


Discover the amazing woodcock and attempt to witness the male bird's spectacular courtship flight over nearby fields, then hike to search for owls. Binoculars and flashlights are recommended. For ages 6 and older. No dogs, please. WH

Leaf Icon Saturday, March 16, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

BLACK BEARS


Come learn about the native bear that is making a comeback in Ohio. This program will enlighten visitors on this beautiful creature and its amazing abilities. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, March 16, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

WHISPERS FROM MOTHER NATURE


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

Leaf Icon Saturday, March 16, 6:00 PM - 8:00 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, March 17, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

BEGINNER BUTTERFLIES


Before they start flying, learn the basics of butterfly identification with Naturalist Becca through an interactive presentation and tabletop activities. Meet in the auditorium. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, March 17, 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

VERNAL POOLS: WHAT'S FOR DINNER?


What are salamanders and their offspring eating in vernal pools? Get a close look at their tiny meals during this off-trail hike. Please meet at the Confluence Metro Park lot on Turkeyfoot Road, two driveways down from Towpath Credit Union in Akron. Confluence Metro Park: , OH

Leaf Icon Monday, March 18, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

CARDIO HIKE


Hike over 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 nature center. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, March 20, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

THINK SPRING


Discover why animals are excited about spring's arrival and look for signs that a new season is on the way. CV/Oxbow

Leaf Icon Wednesday, March 20, 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM

HISTORY AND NATURE OF LIBERTY PARK


Join a naturalist on a hike along Black Bear Trail to learn the history of Twinsburg and Liberty Park, along with the unique wildlife within the park. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, March 21, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

GARDENING THROUGH THE YEAR: STARTING SEEDS


Learn how to properly start seeds now to enjoy beautiful flowers and yummy vegetables all summer long. Come prepared with your questions! LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Friday, March 22, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

WATERFOWL WATCH


New and experienced birdwatchers can view ducks, geese and other water birds during spring migration. Bring binoculars or a spotting scope. TT/Summit Lake

Leaf Icon Friday, March 22, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

WATERFOWL FOR WORLD WATER DAY


Nimisila Reservoir is an important migration stopover for a multitude of waterfowl. Join a Summit Metro Parks naturalist to look for ducks and other waterfowl as we celebrate World Water Day in collaboration with Manchester High School! From 5 to 7 p.m., students will host a variety of free water-related activities in the cafeteria of the high school located at 437 W. Nimisila Rd. in Akron. NR/Lot SM2

Leaf Icon Friday, March 22, 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM

FAMILY FISHING


Ready for some after-school family fun? All generations can learn the basics of fishing with Naturalist Becca, then drop a line in Brushwood Lake. A limited number of rods and reels will be available. Bait is provided. Participants 16 and older must have a fishing license. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Friday, March 22, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

SPRING HIKE & FIRE


Join a naturalist for a hike on Cherry Lane Trail to see what has sprung this spring! A toasty campfire will follow. Marshmallows will be available while supplies last. FASN/Campfire Area

Leaf Icon Saturday, March 23, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

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 Saturday, March 23, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

AMPHIBIANS FOR KIDS


Children, accompanied by an adult, are invited to discover our slimy amphibian friends with a naturalist. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, March 23, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

RAIN GARDEN & RAIN BARREL 101


Join a discussion about stormwater issues and things you can do at home to reduce your stormwater footprint. Learn how rain barrels and rain gardens can assist you, then take an optional tour of the park district's first LEED certified building after the program. Experts will be on hand to answer questions. This program is presented together with Summit Soil and Water Conservation District and Davey Resource Group. SR/Mingo

Leaf Icon Saturday, March 23, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

OWL PROWL


Explore for owls with a naturalist after an informative presentation. Patience and silence are essential when prowling for owls. Program for ages 6 and older. No dogs, please. CV/Schumacher Valley

Leaf Icon Sunday, March 24, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

HIBERNATION WAKE UP


Take a hike to learn about our animal neighbors who are just waking up, and those who’ve been awake all winter long. After hiking, warm up around a campfire. FASN/Campfire Area

Leaf Icon Sunday, March 24, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

MINDFULNESS IN NATURE


Spending time in nature has been scientifically proven to lower heart rate and blood pressure, while decreasing stress. Come learn about the benefits of nature during the first program in our "Mindfulness in Nature" series. Each month we will explore a new topic to benefit our wellness. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Monday, March 25, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

SPRING NATURE DAY CAMP


Kids ages 7 to 10 will enjoy this early spring adventure with fun, hands-on experiences. We will explore the park, do a craft and learn about nature in spring. Please pack a lunch and dress to be outside for long periods of time. Cost: $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 2/27: Register here. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, March 27, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

WATERFOWL WATCH


Spring is a great time to view ducks, geese and other water birds. New and experienced birdwatchers can join Naturalist Elizabeth Kresse for a chance to view these birds during spring migration. Bring binoculars or a spotting scope. LP/Tinkers Creek

Leaf Icon Thursday, March 28, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

ANIMAL BABIES FOR KIDS


Children ages 3 and up will learn about the animal babies emerging in spring with a short lesson, story and craft while supplies last. Children must be accompanied by an adult. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, March 28, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: MAPLE SUGARING


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions can learn how maple syrup is made. 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 2/26: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, March 28, 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. Beginning and practiced archers are welcome. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be 50 inches or taller. Cost: $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 3/15: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Thursday, March 28, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

INTRO TO ARCHERY FOR FAMILIES


Archery is one of the oldest arts still practiced today, and it's more accessible than ever. Families with children 9 and older can learn international-style target archery together at our indoor range. Beginning and practiced archers are welcome. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be 50 inches or taller. Cost: $15/family. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/15: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Thursday, March 28, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

KINDEREALM: MAPLE SUGARING


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions can learn how maple syrup is made. 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 2/26: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, March 28, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM

WOODCOCK WATCH AND OWL PROWL


Discover the amazing woodcock and attempt to witness the male bird's spectacular courtship flight over nearby fields, then hike to search for owls. Patience and silence are essential. For ages 6 and older. No dogs, please. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Friday, March 29, 10:30 AM - 12:00 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 during this free program. Must be 50 inches or taller. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/15: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Friday, March 29, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

ARCHERY GAMES FOR FAMILIES


Families with children 9 and older will play different games to build archery skills together 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 3/15: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Friday, March 29, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

HOT COCOA HIKE


Come out and hike the trail to learn about what the critters are up to outside, then warm up around the fire with a cup of hot cocoa. FASN/Seneca Deck

Leaf Icon Friday, March 29, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: THE "TOOTH" ABOUT RODENTS


Homeschoolers ages 11 to 14: From mice and squirrels to groundhogs and beaver, rodents are everywhere! Find out why these big-toothed critters are an important part of the animal world. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/1: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

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

CREATURES FROM THE BLACK LAGOON


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur as we explore "black lagoons" (i.e., vernal pools). We will look for wood frogs, spring peepers, fairy shrimp, salamanders, horsehair worms, leeches and other mysterious creatures. MF/Tallmadge Meadows

Leaf Icon Saturday, March 30, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HIKING SPREE SHIELD ASSISTANCE


Is attaching the hiking spree shield more challenging than actually hiking the eight trails? Summit Metro Parks volunteers will gladly attach it for you at no charge. March 31 is the last day to get 2018 rewards! FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, March 31, 9:00 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. LP/Tinkers Creek

Leaf Icon Sunday, March 31, 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM

INTRO TO ARCHERY FOR FAMILIES


Archery is one of the oldest arts still practiced today, and it's more accessible than ever. Families with children 9 and older can learn international-style target archery together at our indoor range. Beginning and practiced archers are welcome. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be 50 inches or taller. Cost: $15/family. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/15: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Sunday, March 31, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

NATURE'S TRICKSTERS


Just in time for April Fool's Day, join a naturalist to learn how animals fool each other with trickery and deception on a hike along Rock Creek Trail. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Sunday, March 31, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

ATTRACTING WILDLIFE WITH NATIVE PLANTS


Do you want to see more birds, butterflies, bees and other wildlife? Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur to see how you can attract wildlife to your back yard by planting certain native plants and learn why these plants, trees and shrubs are so important. Transform your current landscape into one that will provide enjoyment year-round. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, March 31, 2:30 PM - 4:00 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. Beginning and practiced archers are welcome. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Cost: $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 3/15: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks