Summit Metro Parks We're Your Back Yard

Programs & Events

Program & Events Calendar

To join a virtual program, visit www.zoom.com and enter the Zoom meeting ID.

Summit Metro Parks staff can adapt many programs to be accessible to anyone who would like to participate. Please make the request at the time of registration and/or at least 72 hours prior to the program. Contact us at 330-865-8065.

On the rare occasion of a program cancelation or change, please visit us on social media to see the latest information.

AprilMayJune

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 01, 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM

WEEKDAY WALKERS


Relax and stroll as the day begins to learn about nature and history at O'Neil Woods Metro Park. ONW/Trail Lot

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 01, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

FOOLS FOR NATURE


Celebrate April Fools' Day by learning about some of the daring, sometimes foolish adventures naturalists took during the age of discovery. There will be a short hike following the presentation. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 02, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

HISTORY HAPPENINGS HIKE


What was here, who was here? Learn the answers to these questions and more while hiking Pheasant Run Trail with a naturalist. SC/Pheasant Run

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

HOMESCHOOLERS: GROWING GREEN GARDENS


Homeschoolers, ages 7 to 10: It's Earth Month! Learn about all things gardening and explore our very own community garden. We'll get hands-on looking for critters and starting seeds. Dress for a mess! Meet in the West Room inside the lodge. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/21: 330-865-8065. GYH/Lodge

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

HOMESCHOOLERS: GROWING GREEN GARDENS


Homeschoolers, ages 7 to 10: It's Earth Month! Learn about all things gardening and explore our very own community garden. We'll get hands-on looking for critters and starting seeds. Dress for a mess! Meet in the West Room inside the lodge. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/21: 330-865-8065. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 04, 1:00 PM - 1:30 PM

BALLOFLEX FOR BEGINNERS


Enjoy an exercise session with a certified BalloFlex instructor. BalloFlex is a seated workout that incorporates the elements of dance and fitness together in a safe, low impact and fun system. It is designed for all ages and abilities! SR/Mingo

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 04, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

FROGS: A SLIPPERY SYMPHONY


Join us to learn about some of the slippery singers that call Summit Metro Parks home. Afterward, we'll take a short hike to look for the musicians. DLQ

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

DROP-IN DISCOVERY: EGGS


Children and their adult companions can drop in to learn about eggs of all kinds. See real eggs up close, make a simple craft and search for “eggs” hidden around the nature center. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 05, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

HISTORY IN THE HEIGHTS


Over the past 90 years, Goodyear Heights Metro Park has provided Northeast Ohioans with much-needed green space. Join a naturalist to discuss the long and storied history of the park while taking a hike. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Monday, April 06, 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM

NATURE JOURNALING: NATURE SOUNDS


Learn basic journaling techniques to record your nature observations. This month will be all about the songs and calls of spring wildlife. We will be outside for the part of the program. Taking photos is optional. A one-time registration fee for the monthly series includes a journal, pen and pencil. Cost: $20/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 3/25: Register here. SR/Shady Hollow

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 08, 9:00 PM - 11:00 PM

SUPER PINK MOON ASTRONOMY NIGHT


Join a naturalist as we learn about the "super pink" moon. Telescopes will be available for viewing the moon, as well as other celestial objects during the night. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 09, 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 the natural curiosity to explore. The program will be outside, so please dress for the weather. FASN/Seneca Deck

Leaf Icon Friday, April 10, 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 Saturday, April 11, 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 11, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM

DANCE WITH THE WOODCOCK


Discover the amazing woodcock and attempt to witness the male bird's spectacular courtship flight over the fields as the sun sets for the evening. Listen for the "peent" and the "whistling" sounds the male birds make as they try to attract a mate. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 12, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

DISTANCE HIKE


Join a naturalist to explore Goodyear Heights Metro Park on an approximately 5-mile hike. GYH/Pioneer

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

S'MORE TIME OUTDOORS


Come out to enjoy outdoor activities and s'mores around a fire. SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Tuesday, April 14, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

BOATING COURSE


Ohio law requires that anyone born on or after January 1, 1982 must successfully complete either a boating course or a proficiency exam in order to operate a boat powered by more than 10 horsepower. Join us to take the free, NASBLA-approved Ohio boating course! Participants must complete entire class to receive the certificate. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/20: 330-865-8065. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Tuesday, April 14, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

NATURE DAY CAMP: SPRING ADVENTURE


Kids ages 11 to 13 can enjoy this early spring adventure with fun, hands-on experiences. We will explore the park, make 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 3/23: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 15, 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 4/1: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 15, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

MINDFULNESS IN NATURE: WALKING MEDITATION


Enjoy a peaceful morning in nature while sharpening your awareness of the world around you. We will spend the morning outside, so dress for the weather! HH/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 15, 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 4/1: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

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

REMARKABLE REPTILES


Where are our scaly friends? Learn about the reptiles that live in our parks and how cool they really are while hiking Alder Trail. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 16, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

NATURE DAY CAMP: SPRING ADVENTURE


Kids ages 7 to 10 can enjoy this early spring adventure with fun, hands-on experiences. We will explore the park, make 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 3/23: Register here. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 16, 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM

FEEDING TIME OPEN HOUSE


Lettuce, worms, tomatoes, roaches...yum! Stop in to the animal room and get up-close to our exhibit animals as they eat lunch. FASN/Visitors Center

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

GOOD GARDENS: WEEDING, SEEDING & FEEDING


Get acquainted with fellow gardeners in the community and learn some essential practices for a successful start to the growing season. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Friday, April 17, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: GROWING GREEN GARDENS


Homeschoolers, ages 11 to 14: It's Earth Month! Learn about all things gardening and explore our very own community garden, We'll get hands-on looking for critters and starting seeds. Dress for a mess! Meet in the West Room inside the lodge. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/21: 330-865-8065. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Friday, April 17, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

HOOK, LINE & THINKER


Are you thinking about where the next honey hole is hiding? Hear tips from local bait and tackle shop owners from across Summit County as they report on some of the best fishing spots. A walleye dinner will be served as part of the program. Space is limited; register early to reserve your spot! Cost: $20/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 4/2: Register here. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 18, 8:00 AM - 10:30 AM

HIKE & BREAKFAST


Join a naturalist for a short spring hike, then enjoy a delicious breakfast prepared by our volunteers. Participants will be asked to contribute to the feast. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/31: 330-865-8065. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 18, 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. Make it a fun, family-friendly morning by hiking, picnicking or visiting our Nature Play area after the story. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/2: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 18, 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM

NATURE ART FOR TEENS


Do you have a creative spirit? Teens ages 13 to 17 are invited to 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 4/3: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 19, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS


Join our interpretive artist for this hands-on lesson in nature drawing for ages 6 to 12. Paper and pencils will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/11: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 19, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS


Join our interpretive artist for this hands-on lesson in nature drawing for ages 6 to 12. Paper and pencils will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/11: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 19, 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM

SUMMIT LAKE HISTORY HIKE


Take a hike on the Summit Lake Loop Trail with a naturalist and learn about the rich ecological and cultural history of the lake and surrounding area. TT/SLNC

Leaf Icon Monday, April 20, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: HUMMINGBIRDS


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will learn about hummingbirds. Program includes a short hike and craft. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/14: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 22, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

EARTH DAY WILDFLOWER HIKE


Join a naturalist on Earth Day and celebrate Mother Earth by enjoying the spring wildflowers along the trail. LP/Twinsburg Ledges

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 22, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

50 YEARS OF EARTH DAY


As Earth Day reaches its milestone 50th anniversary, our planet is faced with enormous challenges, from loss of biodiversity to climate change. Learn about this celebration's roots, how it has brought the environment to the forefront of public discussion and how we can all celebrate meaningfully. SR/Mingo

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 22, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

MEET ME IN THE GARDEN


Join the Master Gardeners of Summit County to discover how phenology tells us when to expect seasonal events such as blooming and insect activity. Presented by Denise Ellsworth, Program Director Pollinator Education, OSU Dept. of Entomology/Extension. Program was originally scheduled for March 25. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 25, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

KIDS' FISHING


Kids 15 and younger can learn the basics of fishing, then drop a line at Little Turtle Pond. A few rods and reels will be available for use. Bait is provided. Adults must supervise their children but are not permitted to fish. F/Little Turtle Pond

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 25, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: HUMMINGBIRDS


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will learn about hummingbirds. Program includes a short hike and craft. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/14: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 25, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

KINDEREALM: HUMMINGBIRDS


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will learn about hummingbirds. Program includes a short hike and craft. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/14: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 25, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

WILDFLOWER HIKE


Hike with a naturalist along portions of Oxbow Trail to see which flowers are blooming this time of the year. CV/Oxbow

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 26, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

WHAT'S ALL THE BUZZZ ABOUT?


Join a naturalist to explore for "queen" bumblebees and other types of bees as they pollinate the spring wildflowers. Learn why native bees are essential to a healthy ecosystem, and why they need our help! LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 26, 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 Monday, April 27, 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

SPRING BIRD WALK


New and experienced birdwatchers can join a naturalist for this informative bird walk on Deer Run Trail. This challenging trail includes stairs and an uphill ascent. Binoculars are recommended. ONW/Trail Lot

Leaf Icon Monday, April 27, 10:00 AM - 10:30 AM

BALLOFLEX FOR BEGINNERS


Enjoy exercise with a certified BalloFlex instructor. BalloFlex is a seated workout that incorporates the elements of dance and fitness together in a safe, low impact and fun system. It is designed for all ages and abilities! F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 29, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

BACK YARDS GONE WILD: DIY BLUEBIRD BOXES


Join a naturalist for this monthly series focused on creating nature-friendly back yards. This month we will learn about cavity-nesting birds. After a short presentation, participants can build a bluebird box to take home, free of charge, courtesy of Ohio Department of Natural Resources (while supplies last). LP/Nature Center