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.

MayJuneJuly

Leaf Icon Monday, April 01, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

PRESCHOOL EXPLORERS


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

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 04, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

DISTANCE HIKE


Hike more than 7 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, April 05, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM

HIKE AND FIRE


Join a naturalist for an evening hike followed by a campfire. Feel free to bring your favorite folklore and not-so-scary campfire stories. Marshmallows will be provided for roasting, while supplies last. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 06, 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

KIDS' FISHING


Kids 15 and younger can learn the basics of fishing, then drop a line in Brushwood Lake. Some rods and reels will be available for use. Bait is provided. Adults must supervise their children, but may not fish during the program. FR/Brushwood

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

THE SEARCH FOR SNIPES


Did you know snipes are real animals? No fooling! Explore for this elusive creature along with other cool nighttime critters. WH

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 07, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

NATURE FOR FAMILIES: MIGRATION BEGINS


Join this hands-on nature exploration series for the whole family. This month we'll explore nature as creatures begin to migrate back from warmer climates. Be prepared to be outside for most of the program. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 07, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

A DEEP LOOK AT DEEP LOCK


Stroll with a naturalist to learn the history of Deep Lock Quarry and the role it played for Akron, the Ohio and Erie Canal and beyond. DLQ

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 07, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

SONGS & STORIES WITH SAM SAPP


Calling all families! Enjoy animal and nature songs by singer/songwriter Sam Sapp. Listen or sing along, and learn about animals in your back yard during this interactive concert. Meet in the auditorium. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 07, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

YOGA: VINYASA


Enjoy an active vinyasa yoga practice with a certified instructor. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/26: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 07, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM

ZODIAC EXPLORERS: PISCES


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 Tuesday, April 09, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: TURTLES


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions learn about turtles, inside and out. 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 3/29: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Tuesday, April 09, 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

FREE THE FALLS PUBLIC MEETING


Join us at "On the Road to Gorge Dam Removal," a public meeting on the effort to remove the dam from the Cuyahoga River in Gorge Metro Park. At this update to the community, we will welcome officials from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to discuss the Great Lakes Legacy Act and their role in the dam removal process. Additionally, participants will be given an opportunity to ask questions or provide input on the archaeology and history of the dam and the surrounding area, and engineers will present the results from a recent hydrologic study.  The Natatorium of Cuyahoga Falls: 2345 4th St. Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 10, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

HISTORY HIKE


Come out and hike with a naturalist to discover the history of Goodyear Heights Metro Park. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 10, 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

KINDEREALM: TURTLES


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions learn about turtles, inside and out. 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 3/29: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

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

KINDEREALM: TURTLES


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions learn about turtles, inside and out. 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 3/29: 330-865-8065. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 11, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

GARDENING THROUGH THE YEAR: PREPARING BEDS


Properly preparing your flower and vegetable beds can help ensure successful gardening. Bring a notebook and your questions. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Friday, April 12, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

WATERFOWL WATCH


Spring is a great time to view ducks, geese and other water birds. New and experienced birdwatchers can join Naturalist Dave Brumfield for a chance to view these birds during the spring migration. Bring binoculars or a spotting scope. TT/Summit Lake

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

HOMESCHOOLERS: BUILDING YOUR BACK YARD


Homeschoolers, ages 7 to 10: It's Earth Month! Learn about how sustainability starts right in your own back yard. From native wildflowers to rain barrels, there is so much we can do! ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/30: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, April 12, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: BUILDING YOUR BACK YARD


Homeschoolers, ages 7 to 10: It's Earth Month! Learn about how sustainability starts right in your own back yard. From native wildflowers to rain barrels, there is so much we can do! ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/30: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 13, 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. Co-sponsored by the Goodyear Hunting & Fishing Club, Ohio Division of Wildlife and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. F/Little Turtle Pond

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 13, 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, April 13, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

HIKE AND FIRE


Come hike Cherry Lane Trail to learn about local wildlife, then warm up around the fire with marshmallows. FASN/Campfire Area

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 13, 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM

WOODCOCK WATCH


Learn about this elusive shorebird on a hike along Pheasant Run trail as we attempt to witness their aerial courtship display and hear their distinctive calls. Silence and patience are essential for this program. No dogs, please. SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 14, 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 4/5: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 14, 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 4/5: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Monday, April 15, 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM

CARDIO HIKE


Enjoy healthy outdoor exercise and view beautiful rock ledges while hiking 5 miles on the Bike & Hike Trail at a vigorous pace. Beginners are welcome, but talk to your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine. Drinking water is recommended. BHT/Boston Heights

Leaf Icon Monday, April 15, 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 4/9: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Monday, April 15, 11:00 AM - 11:30 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 4/9: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Tuesday, April 16, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

GEOLOGY OF THE GORGE


Join a naturalist as we hike Glens Trail to examine several of its geologic features. Learn how the Cuyahoga River was formed and where all those lucky stones came from. G/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 17, 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 4/6: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 17, 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 4/6: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 17, 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM

WILDFLOWER WALK


Join a naturalist for a leisurely walk to discover which wildflowers have sprung so far this spring. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 17, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM

AMPHIBIANS AT NIGHT


Discover the source of all that racket! Grab your flashlight and get an up-close experience searching for amphibians with Naturalist Becca. Parking is limited. BHT/Young Road

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

KINDEREALM: TURTLES


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions learn about turtles, inside and out. 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 3/29: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 18, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

KINDEREALM: TURTLES


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions learn about turtles, inside and out. 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 3/29: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 18, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

GOOD GARDENS


Join a Master Gardener to learn everything you need to know about starting and growing tomatoes in your garden. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 18, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

BIOMIMICRY: INSPIRATION FROM MOTHER NATURE


Defying gravity, graceful high-speed travel, even regenerating brain cells! Through biomimicry, we can learn to imitate amazing natural feats. Discover what we've learned and what we've yet to uncover from our greatest teacher: Mother Nature. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, April 19, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

RABBIT HIKE


Explore for the eastern cottontail rabbit, one of the most common wildlife species in Ohio, while hiking Pheasant Run Trail.  SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Friday, April 19, 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM

SOUNDS OF SPRING HIKE


Listen to what nature has to say this spring. We'll hike Cherry Lane Trail to check out what is making all the noise and why. FASN/Onondaga Deck

Leaf Icon Friday, April 19, 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

ALL ABOUT EGGS


From insects to amphibians and birds — so many animals lay eggs! Children and their adult companions will enjoy an egg-citing hike and learn about different types of eggs. We'll even attempt to find some eggs in nature. FASN/Campfire Area

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 20, 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

CARDIO HIKE AND BREAKFAST


Join a naturalist for a 3+ mile, fast-paced hike followed by a healthy breakfast prepared by staff and volunteers. Participants will be asked to add to the feast. Please consult your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine. Drinking water is recommended.  ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/13: 330-865-8065. FASN/Seneca Deck

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 20, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

WHAT IS A WARBLER?


New to warblers? Hike Deep Lock Quarry, an Audubon-designated "Important Bird Area," to search for these beautiful spring migrants and learn basic field ID. Please bring binoculars and a field guide. DLQ

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 20, 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 4/12: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Monday, April 22, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

NATURE DAY CAMP: ANIMAL ADVENTURES


Kids ages 7 to 10 can enjoy this early spring nature camp with fun, hands-on experiences. We will explore the park to learn about animals and their springtime habits. Please pack a lunch and dress to be outside for long periods of time. Cost: $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 3/28: Register here. SR/Shady Hollow

Leaf Icon Monday, April 22, 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

EARTH DAY OPEN HOUSE


Drop in to celebrate our remarkable planet! Discover ways to live more sustainably while enjoying the plants and wildlife of the park. FASN

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 24, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

NATURE DAY CAMP: ALL ABOUT BIRDS


Kids ages 7 to 10 can enjoy this early spring camp with fun, hands-on experiences to learn about birds. We will explore the park, do a craft and learn the basics about birds. Please pack a lunch and dress to be outside for long periods of time. Cost: $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 3/28: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 24, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

SENSATIONAL SENSORY PLAY


Enjoy all spring has to offer during this sensory play experience for children ages 3 to 5. Plan to be outside and get muddy! LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 25, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

NATURE DAY CAMP: OUTDOOR SKILLS


Kids ages 7 to 10 can enjoy this early spring adventure with fun, hands-on experiences. We will explore the park, do a craft and learn basic outdoor skills. Please pack a lunch and dress to be outside for long periods of time. Cost: $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 3/28: Register here. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 25, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

KIDS' FISHING


Kids 15 and younger will 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 Thursday, April 25, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

BLUEBELL VALLEY


Enjoy a hike along the river with a naturalist to attempt to view bluebells and other wildflowers along the way. Everett Road Covered Bridge: 2370 Everett Rd. Peninsula, OH

Leaf Icon Friday, April 26, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

WILDFLOWER HIKE


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

Leaf Icon Friday, April 26, 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 4/9: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Friday, April 26, 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. Beginning and practiced archers are welcome. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Cost: $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 4/9: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Friday, April 26, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: BUILDING YOUR BACK YARD


Homeschoolers, ages 11 to 14: It's Earth Month! Learn about how sustainability starts right in your own back yard. From native wildflowers to rain barrels, there is much for us to do! ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/30: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 27, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

COMMUNITY ART AT MOGADORE COMMUNITY FAIR


All ages can join our interpretive artist to create their own contribution to a large community art project. Use our recycled materials to make a quick and simple craft. The final result will be revealed later this year. Mogadore Jr./Sr. High School: 130 S. Cleveland Ave. Mogadore, OH

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 27, 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM

EARTH DAY CELEBRATION


Join the City of Twinsburg for their Earth Day Celebration at Liberty Park! Enjoy activities throughout the day at the Ledges Area to celebrate all things green. For more information, visit mytwinsburg.com or call 330-425-7161. LP/Twinsburg Ledges

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 27, 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM

ARCHERY GAMES OF THRONES FOR ADULTS


Ages 16 and older will be assigned to a great "House of Westeros" and play games to build archery skills with an ice-and-fire twist. 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 4/9: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 27, 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 Saturday, April 27, 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 May at Summit Lake and in the Metro Parks. TT/SLNC

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 27, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

ARBOR DAY WORKSHOP


Join us for a presentation to discover the benefits of planting native trees and see a proper tree planting. Participants will receive a free sapling at the program, while supplies last! Please dress for the weather. This program is presented together with Summit Soil and Water Conservation District and Davey Resource Group. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/9: 330-865-8065. SR/Mingo

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 27, 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM

ARCHERY GAMES OF THRONES FOR ADULTS


Ages 16 and older will be assigned to a great "House of Westeros" and play games to build archery skills with an ice-and-fire twist. 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 4/9: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 28, 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM

BARK & BLOOMS


Learn how to ID some trees and spring wildflowers through their distinguishing features with Naturalist Becca. A basic tree guide and Newcomb's Wildflower Guide are recommended. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 28, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

MINDFULNESS IN NATURE: MEDITATION


Enjoy a peaceful morning in nature de-stressing through guided meditation. We will spend the morning outside, so dress for the weather! LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 28, 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

OTTER OPEN HOUSE


Celebrate the return of otters to our waters! Learn about these playful creatures, where to find them and why they call this park home. A naturalist will lead short walks in search of otters every 30 minutes. LP/Pond Brook

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 28, 12:30 PM - 3:30 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 one of our Intro to Archery programs. All equipment provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/9: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 28, 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 28, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

BUMBLE BEES AND THEIR FRIENDS


Did you know? Seventy percent of all bees nest in the ground, and 90 percent are solitary. Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur as we learn about some of the 455 different native bees found in Ohio, including bumble bees. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Monday, 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 Monday, April 29, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

FIRE ON THE PRAIRIE


Why do we periodically set the prairie ablaze? Explore fire-related equipment up close, then stroll through a section of freshly-burned prairie to learn how fire plays an essential role in sustaining healthy, diverse habitat. SFB