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 Thursday, August 01, 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 to engage the senses and encourage self-exploration. Program will be outside, so please dress for the weather. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, August 01, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

DROP-IN NATURE CRAFT


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

Leaf Icon Friday, August 02, 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

NATURE STORIES


Young children and their adult companions will enjoy this interactive, nature-inspired storytime intended for ages 18 months to 3 years. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 7/26: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Friday, August 02, 3:00 PM - 3:30 PM

NATURE STORIES


Young children and their adult companions will enjoy this interactive, nature-inspired storytime intended for ages 18 months to 3 years. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 7/26: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 03, 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 and sunglasses, and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes instruction and loan of paddleboard, paddle and personal flotation device. Space is limited. Cost: $15/person, plus processing fees. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 7/24: Register here. NR/Lot C6

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

NATIVE FERNS


Join a naturalist to look for several of the native ferns that grow in this area. Learn about their unique reproductive strategy, their significance in the plant kingdom and some of the lore surrounding their names and uses. CV/Oxbow

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 03, 10:30 AM - 12:00 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 7/27: 330-865-8065. HH/Archery Range

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 03, 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

INTERMEDIATE STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING


Join a certified instructor and a naturalist to learn moving on the board, advanced paddle strokes and rescue techniques. Participants 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 and sunglasses, and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes instruction and loan of paddleboard, paddle and personal flotation device. Space is limited. Cost: $15/person, plus processing fees. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 7/24: Register here. NR/Lot C6

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 03, 1:00 PM - 2:30 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 7/27: 330-865-8065. HH/Archery Range

Leaf Icon Monday, August 05, 8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

BEAT THE HEAT


Join a naturalist for a morning walk along the Valley Link Trail to learn how plants and animals cope with the summer sun. SR/Old Portage

Leaf Icon Tuesday, August 06, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

GRIN AND BEAR IT


Join a naturalist to hike Meadow Trail and discover some of the biology and habits of the black bear so that we might coexist more comfortably with this Ohio resident. MF/Tallmadge Meadows

Leaf Icon Tuesday, August 06, 7:00 PM - 8:00 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 Maple Beach Shelter at 7 p.m. Concert canceled if it rains. Call 330-865-8060 if wet weather is in the forecast. MF/Lake Area

Leaf Icon Wednesday, August 07, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

DRAWING OUTDOORS


Bring your drawing pad and pencils for an outdoor session of sketching. 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 canceled during inclement weather. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, August 07, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS FOR KIDS


Kids and their adult companions join a naturalist to learn about the crawling and slithering creatures found in our parks. Meet 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 08, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: BUTTERFLIES


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will go on a summer nature walk to learn about butterflies. Come dressed for the weather as most of the program will be outside. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 7/30: 330-865-8065. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Friday, August 09, 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

POISON IN THE GARDEN


Poison: a lot can kill, a little can cure! Hike with a naturalist to explore the power of poison in nature and gardens, and its surprising uses for good. GYH/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Friday, August 09, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

EVENING HIKE


Join a naturalist for a relaxing evening hike, and hopefully we'll enjoy a beautiful sunset along the way. MF/Tallmadge Meadows

Leaf Icon Friday, August 09, 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM

HIKE & FIRE


Hike Cherry Lane Trail to learn about local wildlife active at night, then relax around the fire with marshmallows. FASN/Campfire Area

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 10, 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 and enjoy FREE lake swimming! Local law enforcement agencies will also bring vehicles, and food trucks will be on site.  MF/Lake Area

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 10, 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 8/2: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, August 11, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

GIFTS OF THE FOREST


Here’s to the trees! These wooden wonders are essential to so many aspects of our lives. Learn how to identify some common trees and discover the roles they play for humans, wildlife and the environment. FASN

Leaf Icon Sunday, August 11, 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM

KIDS' YOGA


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

Leaf Icon Sunday, August 11, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

NATURE FOR FAMILIES: CAMPFIRE


Join this hands-on nature exploration series for the whole family. This month we'll meet at the amphitheater and learn how to build a fire, experience the art of storytelling and make s'mores. We will be outside for the entire program. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, 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 Monday, August 12, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

SUMMER CAMP: EXPLORERS


Kids ages 9 and 10 can register for this exciting two-day drop-off camp. Investigate the lives of critters with fun, hands-on experiences in the outdoors. Cost: $20/child, plus processing fees. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 4/1: Register here. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Tuesday, August 13, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

SUMMER CAMP: EXPLORERS


Kids ages 9 and 10 can register for this exciting two-day drop-off camp. Investigate the lives of critters with fun, hands-on experiences in the outdoors. Cost: $20/child, plus processing fees. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 4/1: Register here. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Tuesday, August 13, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

AWESOME 'POSSUMS FOR KIDS


Opossums are awesome! Join a naturalist for an interactive and fun experience all about North America's only marsupial! Adults must accompany their children. WH

Leaf Icon Tuesday, August 13, 3:00 PM - 5:00 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 and sunglasses, and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes: instruction and loan of kayak, paddle and personal flotation device. Space is limited. Cost: $15/person, plus processing fees. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 7/31: Register here. NR/Lot C6

Leaf Icon Tuesday, August 13, 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. Call 330-865-8060 after 4 p.m. to learn if the concert is canceled due to inclement weather. SC/Lake House

Leaf Icon Wednesday, August 14, 8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

SUNRISE HIKE


Relax and stroll to see what's out and about on Downy Loop Trail as the day begins. WH

Leaf Icon Wednesday, August 14, 10:00 AM - 12:00 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 are not permitted to fish. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Wednesday, August 14, 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM

WHAT'S A FLUTTER THIS SUMMER


Did you know that a group of butterflies is called a flutter? Join a naturalist to discover the basics of identifying these beautiful insects while hiking through the meadow. MF/Tallmadge Meadows

Leaf Icon Thursday, August 15, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

QUARRY QUEST FOR KIDS


Hike to Deep Lock Quarry on a quest to find evidence from the past. DLQ

Leaf Icon Thursday, August 15, 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. Bring a plain t-shirt and wear older clothes that can get stained. FASN/Onondaga Deck

Leaf Icon Thursday, August 15, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

GOOD GARDENS: SKETCHING IN THE GARDEN


Join our interpretive artist to learn sketching techniques while enjoying the Goodyear Heights Community Garden. In the event of rain, we will set up in the lodge. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Thursday, August 15, 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM

HIKE & 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 Friday, August 16, 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM

FISHING FRIDAY


Join us for a fun day of fishing! Each month we will spotlight one of Ohio's native fish that can be caught in the Metro Parks. Poles and bait will be provided while supplies last. Those 16 and older will need a valid State of Ohio fishing license. WH

Leaf Icon Friday, August 16, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

DROP-IN DISCOVERY: TURTLES


Children and their adult companions drop in to learn about some terrific turtles that may be out and about this season. Meet one of our resident turtles and make a craft to take home. FASN/Seneca Deck

Leaf Icon Friday, August 16, 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM

GARDEN BUDDIES


Calling all kids! Get hands-on in our community garden while looking for and learning about insect, amphibian and reptile friends that help our gardens grow. Plan to get dirty! Meet at the garden. Program will be moved into the West Room if it rains. GYH/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 17, 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

YOGA: VINYASA


Enjoy an active vinyasa yoga practice with a certified instructor. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 8/3: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 17, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

GEOLOGY DICTATES THE BIOLOGY


Join a naturalist to learn how the geology of the area effects which species of trees will grow and thrive. CV/Chuckery

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 17, 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

COMMUNITY ART AT PORCHROKR


This year, we are taking one of our fun and exciting community art projects on the road. Summit Metro Parks participates in many events throughout the county, and we will bring our latest art project to some of those locations. All ages can stop by to create your own quick and fun addition to the project, guided by our interpretive artist. No previous creative experience necessary! The fully-assembled art piece will be unveiled later this fall. Highland Square: Akron, OH

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 17, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

BUTTERFLIES OF SUMMIT LAKE


Join a naturalist and follow the butterflies! Learn about the diversity and abilities of these graceful flyers along the beautiful shores of Summit Lake. Nets and jars provided. TT/Summit Lake

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 17, 8:30 PM - 10:30 PM

OUTDOOR MOVIE NIGHT: THE SANDLOT


New this summer, Summit Metro Parks is offering a series of free, family-friendly outdoor movies shown at parks across the county. Pack some popcorn and candy, bring a blanket or your favorite chair and join us for a relaxing evening under the summer night sky. Meet at the Maple Beach Shelter. MF/Lake Area

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

MARVELOUS MOTHS


Join a Summit Metro Parks naturalist and Lara Roketenetz from The University of Akron to explore the variety and beauty of our local moths. Bring a flashlight and camera. Meet at the Field Station, past the main parking lot off Ira Road and down the lane to the second house. Bath Nature Preserve: 4160 Ira Rd. Akron, OH

Leaf Icon Sunday, August 18, 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 and sunglasses, and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes: instruction and loan of kayak, paddle and personal flotation device. Space is limited. Cost: $15/person, plus processing fees. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 8/8: Register here. G/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Sunday, August 18, 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

NATIVE PLANTS OF SPRINGFIELD BOG


Join a naturalist on a stroll outdoors looking at goldenrod, sunflowers and other native wildflowers. We also will be on the lookout for the native pollinators that help these plants. SFB

Leaf Icon Sunday, August 18, 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 and sunglasses, and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes: instruction and loan of kayak, paddle and personal flotation device. Space is limited. Cost: $15/person, plus processing fees. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 8/8: Register here. G/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Monday, August 19, 8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

HIKE FOR THE HEALTH OF IT


Hike three 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. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Monday, August 19, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

HISTORY HIKE


Walk along the Towpath Trail to learn some local history, from Native Americans through the canal era and beyond. TT/Big Bend

Leaf Icon Tuesday, August 20, 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM

SCALY & SLIMY STORYTIME


Families with beginner readers of all ages: grab your favorite book and enjoy an interactive storytime experience with our live animals. We'll read some stories together, meet a critter, then read your favorite book with your family. Meet at the shelter. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 8/10: 330-865-8065. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Tuesday, August 20, 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM

NATURE JOURNALING: BUTTERFLIES


Learn basic journaling techniques to record your nature observations. This month we'll learn about butterflies of the area. We will be outside for part of the program. Taking photos is optional. A one-time registration fee for the monthly series includes a journal, journal pen and pencil. Cost: $20/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 8/9: Register here. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Tuesday, August 20, 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

SCALY & SLIMY STORYTIME


Families with beginner readers of all ages: grab your favorite book and enjoy an interactive storytime experience with our live animals. We'll read some stories together, meet a critter, then read your favorite book with your family. Meet at the shelter. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 8/10: 330-865-8065. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Tuesday, August 20, 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. Call 330-865-8060 after 4 p.m. to learn if the concert is canceled due to inclement weather. LP/Twinsburg Ledges

Leaf Icon Wednesday, August 21, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

DRAWING OUTDOORS


Bring your drawing pad and pencils for an outdoor session of sketching. 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 canceled during inclement weather. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, August 21, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

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. Program good for beginning and practiced archers. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Cost: $10/person, plus processing fees. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 8/14: Register here. HH/Archery Range

Leaf Icon Wednesday, August 21, 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 ages 9 and older join us to learn international-style target archery together. Program good for beginning and practiced archers. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be 50 inches or taller. Cost: $15/family. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 8/14: 330-865-8065. HH/Archery Range

Leaf Icon Wednesday, August 21, 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM

LATE SUMMER STROLL


Enjoy a leisurely hike with a naturalist while discovering nature and history along the way. ONW/Trail Lot

Leaf Icon Wednesday, August 21, 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM

PURPLE MARTINS FROM SHORE


It's a bird cyclone! Attempt to witness the whimsical evening roosting behavior of the charismatic purple martin as they migrate south. NR/Lot C6

Leaf Icon Thursday, August 22, 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

NATURE STORIES


Young children and their adult companions will enjoy this interactive, nature-inspired storytime intended for ages 18 months to 3 years. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 8/8: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, August 22, 10:00 AM - 12:30 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 our Intro to Archery program. All equipment provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 8/14: 330-865-8065. HH/Archery Range

Leaf Icon Thursday, August 22, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

CREEK WALK


Get out on a warm afternoon to cool off in the creek as we search for critters and fossils. Please dress to get wet and wear closed-toe shoes. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Thursday, August 22, 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

BEGINNER TREE ID


Enjoy a leisurely hike while learning tricks and tips for identifying trees by leaves, bark and twig arrangement. CV/Oxbow

Leaf Icon Friday, August 23, 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 and sunglasses, and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes: instruction and loan of kayak, paddle and personal flotation device. Space is limited. Cost: $15/person, plus processing fees. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 8/15: Register here. NR/Lot C6

Leaf Icon Friday, August 23, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

HIKE THE HOLLOW


Summer days are quickly coming to a close. Join a naturalist on a leisurely hike to discover what's out and about this time of the year. WH

Leaf Icon Friday, August 23, 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 and sunglasses, and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes: instruction and loan of kayak, paddle and personal flotation device. Space is limited. Cost: $15/person, plus processing fees. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 8/15: Register here. NR/Lot C6

Leaf Icon Friday, August 23, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

OHIO BEFORE EUROPEANS


Hike with a naturalist to explore both the nature and the human history of Ohio before the arrival of Europeans. SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 24, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

SUMMIT LAKE KAYAK


Paddle in the “Heart of Akron” at Summit Lake to learn what historical treasures helped build this community. 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 and sunglasses, and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes: instruction and loan of kayak, paddle and personal flotation device. Space is limited. Cost: $15/person, plus processing fees. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 8/16: Register here. TT/Summit Lake

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 24, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

SUMMIT LAKE KAYAK


Paddle in the “Heart of Akron” at Summit Lake to learn what historical treasures helped build this community. 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 and sunglasses, and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes: instruction and loan of kayak, paddle and personal flotation device. Space is limited. Cost: $15/person, plus processing fees. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 8/16: Register here. TT/Summit Lake

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 24, 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 to discover which mushrooms are out this time of year. FASN/Campfire Area

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 24, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

BLOOMS AT SUNSET


Take in sunset views of the wildflower meadow and learn some basic identification of late summer blooms. SFB

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 24, 8:30 PM - 10:30 PM

OUTDOOR MOVIE NIGHT: ROBOTS


New this summer, Summit Metro Parks is offering a series of free, family-friendly outdoor movies shown at parks across the county. Pack some popcorn and candy, bring a blanket or your favorite chair and join us for a relaxing evening under the summer night sky. TT/Summit Lake

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

FALL HIKING SPREE KICKOFF


Get a head start on the 56th annual Fall Hiking Spree and meet a naturalist and mascots at Silver Creek 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. Good for spree credit. SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Sunday, August 25, 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM

NATURE CRAFTING: WEAVE A FOOTSTOOL


Using a twill pattern, we will weave the top of a footstool. Please bring a small flathead screwdriver, needle-nose pliers, towel and two-gallon bucket, if you can. Cost: $25/person, plus processing fees. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 8/13: Register here. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Monday, August 26, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

EXPLORE THE GORGE


Hike with a naturalist to learn about the nature and history of Gorge Metro Park and the Cuyahoga River. G/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Monday, August 26, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: BUTTERFLIES


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will go on a summer nature walk to learn about butterflies. Come dressed for the weather as most of the program will be outside. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 7/30: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Monday, August 26, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

KINDEREALM: BUTTERFLIES


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will go on a summer nature walk to learn about butterflies. Come dressed for the weather as most of the program will be outside. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 7/30: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, August 28, 10:00 AM - 12:00 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 Wednesday, August 28, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

WOODLAND MUSHROOMS


A great variety of mushrooms may be found throughout our parks in late summer. Join a naturalist as we take an evening stroll to discover which mushrooms are out this time of year. Bug spray is recommended. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, August 28, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

MEET ME IN THE GARDEN


Join the Master Gardeners of Summit County to learn how gardens are used in horticultural therapy and the basic elements of healing gardens. Presented by Karen Kennedy, Horticultural Therapy Institute. FASN/Visitors Center

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

WILDFLOWER WALK


Walk through the meadow in search of late summer blooms and the colorful insects that pollinate them. MF/Tallmadge Meadows

Leaf Icon Thursday, August 29, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

BEGINNER TREE ID


Enjoy a leisurely hike while learning tricks and tips for identifying trees by leaves, bark and twig arrangement. DLQ

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

FERN WALK


Join a naturalist 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 Saturday, August 31, 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 and sunglasses, and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes instruction and loan of paddleboard, paddle and personal flotation device. Space is limited. Cost: $15/person, plus processing fees. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 8/21: Register here. NR/Lot C6

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 31, 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. Participants 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 and sunglasses, and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes instruction and loan of paddleboard, paddle and personal flotation device. Space is limited. Cost: $15/person, plus processing fees. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 8/21: Register here. NR/Lot C6

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 31, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

THE HUNT FOR INSECTS AND SPIDERS


Join a naturalist as we explore the trail for insects and spiders that live in the meadow. Nets, magnifiers and jars will be provided. All you need to bring is a sharp eye, hat and sunscreen. MF/Tallmadge Meadows

Leaf Icon Saturday, August 31, 8:30 PM - 10:30 PM

OUTDOOR MOVIE NIGHT: ICE AGE


New this summer, Summit Metro Parks is offering a series of free, family-friendly outdoor movies shown at parks across the county. Pack some popcorn and candy, bring a blanket or your favorite chair and join us for a relaxing evening under the summer night sky. Meet at the amphitheater. LP/Nature Center