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 Thursday, April 01, 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM

SELF-GUIDED: EYE SPY


Hit the trail any time during the month of April for a nature-themed game of Eye Spy! Begin by downloading or printing this month’s Eye Spy list from our "Publications & Downloads" page, then enjoy a stroll along Pheasant Run Trail in search of animals, delicate spring wildflowers and other landmarks along the way. You can also complete your search using the April 1 Instagram post (@summitmetroparks). Bring a camera to document your finds. SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 01, 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

SMP BIOBLITZ: WILLOW TRAIL


This month's BioBlitz is happening along the Willow Trail. Visit youtube.com/summitmetroparks to watch a naturalist identify and highlight several species along the trail using iNaturalist. Then, join the Summit Metro Parks BioBlitz yourself by hiking the trail to identify what you see using iNaturalist along the way. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 01, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX


Get fit while you sit! 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! Zoom meeting ID: 849 6465 8634 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 01, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

VIRTUAL: FOOLS FOR NATURE


Join us online to celebrate April Fools’ Day by learning about some of the daring, sometimes foolish adventures naturalists had during the age of discovery. Zoom meeting ID: 829 4316 6578 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Friday, April 02, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

KIDS YOGA


 ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/23: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 03, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

DISTANCE HIKE


Lace up those hiking boots and hit the hit the trail for a distance hike. Enjoy the morning air while hiking 4.5 miles of challenging terrain. Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/26: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 03, 10:00 AM - 10:30 AM

VIRTUAL: KINDEREALM GROWING GARDENS


Calling all seedlings ages 3 to 6! Join us virtually with a parent/guardian to learn about gardens and the benefits they provide to the planet. Zoom meeting ID: 810 995 47605 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 03, 11:00 AM - 11:30 AM

VIRTUAL: KINDEREALM GROWING GARDENS


Calling all seedlings ages 3 to 6! Join us virtually with a parent/guardian to learn about gardens and the benefits they provide to the planet. Zoom meeting ID: 879 089 14048 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 04, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

VIRTUAL: HISTORY OF SUMMIT LAKE


Join a naturalist online to learn about how the unique history of this area relates to the ongoing revitalization of Summit Lake. Zoom meeting ID: 879 8013 9867 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Monday, April 05, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX


Get fit while you sit! 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! Zoom meeting ID: 868 1963 2750 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 07, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

VIRTUAL: NATURE JOURNALING


Join our interpretive artist online for an inspiring lesson in nature journaling as a technique for practicing mindfulness. A sketchbook/journal, pencil/pen and computer are required. A Zoom invitation will be emailed to participants after registering. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/27: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 07, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

VIRTUAL: NATURE JOURNALING


Join our interpretive artist online for an inspiring lesson in nature journaling as a technique for practicing mindfulness. A sketchbook/journal, pencil/pen and computer are required. A Zoom invitation will be emailed to participants after registering. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/27: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 08, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX


Get fit while you sit! 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! Zoom meeting ID: 849 6465 8634 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 08, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

VIRTUAL: SMP & SCOUTING


Learn the history of the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts at Summit Metro Parks. From trails and trees to bird houses and picnic benches, scouts have left many marks on the parks! Zoom meeting ID: 871 3362 1321 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Friday, April 09, 8:30 PM - 9:30 PM

DRIVE-IN: ON TOP OF THE WORLD


Join a naturalist for a drive-in program on the science and history of our night sky. We'll remain socially distanced in our cars for this informative radio program, so please arrive early to get a good parking spot! HH/Main Entrance

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

VIRTUAL: SPRING NATURE TALES


Families with youngsters ages 2 to 6 are invited to enjoy a virtual story time about spring! Zoom meeting ID: 892 1978 2226 Zoom: , OH

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

DANCE WITH THE WOODCOCK


Join a naturalist to look for woodcocks as they "dance" in the twilight. Learn how to enhance your chances of seeing these interesting, but elusive, birds. Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/2: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

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

WATERFOWL WATCH


Spring is a great time to view ducks, geese, sandhill cranes and other migratory birds. New and experienced birders can meet at Tinkers Creek State Park Area and then caravan to Tinkers Creek State Nature Preserve. Bring binoculars or a spotting scope. Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/3: 330-865-8065. LP/Tinkers Creek

Leaf Icon Monday, April 12, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX


Get fit while you sit! 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! Zoom meeting ID: 878 6498 1269 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Tuesday, April 13, 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM

SELF-GUIDED: STORYBOOK TRAIL


Bring the family out for some exercise and fun exploration with a self-guided story trail based on the book "Flower Garden." Available on Overlook Trail from April 13 through April 18. CV/Overlook

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 14, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

VIRTUAL: NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS


Join our interpretive artist for this entertaining virtual lesson in nature drawing. No experience is necessary; all you need are pencils, paper and a sense of humor. A Zoom invitation will be emailed to participants after registering. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/6: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 14, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

VIRTUAL: NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS


Join our interpretive artist for this entertaining virtual lesson in nature drawing. No experience is necessary; all you need are pencils, paper and a sense of humor. A Zoom invitation will be emailed to participants after registering. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/6: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 14, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

VIRTUAL: SPRING WILDFLOWER ID


Join a naturalist online to learn how to identify spring-flowering ephemerals you may see this time of year, as well as hotspots within the parks for the best views of these beauties. Zoom meeting ID: 895 5922 2474 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 15, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX


Get fit while you sit! 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! Zoom meeting ID: 849 6465 8634 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 15, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

VIRTUAL: RAIN GARDENS 201


Build a unique habitat, manage stormwater and do something good for our planet! Join a master rain-gardener naturalist to build upon knowledge from our Rain Gardens 101 program and transform your planned garden into a reality! Zoom meeting ID: 830 2981 1284 Zoom: , OH

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

WILDFLOWER HIKE


Discover the wildflowers that are popping up in the park! A naturalist will show you these beautiful gems along the trail and share interesting tidbits about the plants. Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/9: 330-865-8065. SC/Pheasant Run

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

LET'S GO TO THE FISHING HOLE!


Kids ages 15 and younger can learn the basics of fishing, then drop a line in Tinkers Creek Lake. Some rods and reels will be available for use. Bait is provided. Adults must be there to supervise their children and if they want to fish, must have a current Ohio fishing license. Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/12: 330-865-8065. LP/Tinkers Creek

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 17, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

VIRTUAL: NATURE DRAWING FOR TEENS


Do you have a creative spirit? Teens ages 13 to 17 are invited to join our interpretive artist for a virtual lesson in nature drawing. Paper, pencils and a computer are required. A Zoom invitation will be emailed to participants after registering. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/10: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 17, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

VIRTUAL: SMP 100 YEARS STRONG


The value of parks was clear during the events of last year, but our history shows that people have always seen the importance of parks in our communities. Our park district's strong beginnings shine through today – let's explore who and what helped us become what we are now 100 years later. Zoom meeting ID: 849 7019 5722 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 18, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

VIRTUAL: NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS


Join our interpretive artist for this virtual lesson in nature drawing for kids ages 6 to 12. Paper, pencils and a computer are required. A Zoom invitation will be emailed to participants after registering. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/13: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 18, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

VIRTUAL: NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS


Join our interpretive artist for this virtual lesson in nature drawing for kids ages 6 to 12. Paper, pencils and a computer are required. A Zoom invitation will be emailed to participants after registering. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/13: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Monday, April 19, 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM

SELF-GUIDED: CELEBRATE EARTH WEEK


Visitors of all ages can enjoy a self-guided hike featuring inventions inspired by Mother Nature. This experience will be available along Cherry Lane Trail from April 19 through April 26. FASN

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

VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX


Get fit while you sit! 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! Zoom meeting ID: 814 1168 7995 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 21, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX


Get fit while you sit! 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! Zoom meeting ID: 875 7973 0498 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 22, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX


Get fit while you sit! 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! Zoom meeting ID: 849 6465 8634 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 22, 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM

VIRTUAL: EARTH DAY FOR KIDS


It's Earth Day! Kids ages 7 to 14 are invited to join a naturalist online to explore what makes Earth special and discover ways to keep our planet beautiful. Zoom meeting ID: 834 4265 4101 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 22, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

EARTH DAY WILDFLOWER HIKE


Join a naturalist as we discover the difference between squirrel corn and Dutchman’s breeches, stinking Benjamins, and wood poppy. Learn which insects are important to many of our native wildflowers. Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/16: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

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

VIRTUAL: EARTH DAY FOR ADULTS


It's Earth Day! Join a naturalist online to discover the history of this holiday, meaningful ways you can celebrate and the amazing ecosystem services our wonderful planet offers us. Zoom meeting ID: 816 9414 3439 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Friday, April 23, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

VIRTUAL: BIRDING BY EAR


Join a naturalist to prepare yourself for birding by ear during the spring and summer months. We'll talk tips, tricks and common birds to set you off on the right "wing." Decent speakers or headphones are recommended, but not required! Zoom Meeting ID: 863 4120 2016 Zoom: , OH

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

SPRING WILDFLOWER HIKE


Hike with a naturalist to learn about some of the common native wildflowers that call Sand Run home. Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to remain with your family group, distanced from others. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/18: 330-865-8065. SR/Wadsworth

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 24, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

HERITAGE TREE GIVEAWAY


Celebrate Earth Day and mark the Summit Metro Parks centennial anniversary while promoting a healthy ecosystem at the same time. Park district staff will distribute, free of charge, several species of native tree saplings that are offspring of iconic trees within Summit County. Visit any of nine Summit Metro Parks locations to collect one free native tree sapling, while supplies last. Click event link below to see locations and details. Participants need not leave their vehicles for this drive-through style event and masks are requested. Multiple Locations: , OH

Leaf Icon Saturday, April 24, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

KIDS FISHING


It's that time of year again! Join a naturalist to kick off the fishing season (socially distanced) at Little Turtle Pond. Children ages 15 and under (accompanied by an adult) are invited to get outside and fish! Bait and poles provided. Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to remain with your family group, distanced from others. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/17: 330-865-8065. F/Little Turtle Pond

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

HIKE FOR THE HEALTH OF IT


Hike about five miles at a moderate pace along a gorgeous section of the Towpath Trail. Beginners are welcome but talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise routine. Drinking water is recommended. Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/19: 330-865-8065. TT/Vanderhoof

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 25, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

KIDS YOGA


Kids ages 7 and up are invited to join certified yoga instructor Lisa Meranti for a program focused on connecting with nature. This class will take place outside with distancing and simultaneously via Zoom for those who would like to participate from the comfort of their own homes. In case of inclement weather, class will be moved into the shelter. Wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat or towel and drinking water. Guardians are encouraged to participate or asked to bring a lawn chair to distance behind the class. Participants ages 10 and up must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others. Zoom meeting ID: 837 1146 0475 ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/12: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, April 25, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

BUMBLEBEES AND THEIR FRIENDS


Join a naturalist to learn about some of the 455 native bees found in Ohio, including bumble bees. After a presentation, we will search Ledges Trail for recently emerged queen bumble bees. Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/20: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Monday, April 26, 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM

SELF-GUIDED: WILDFLOWER WALK


Hike Ledges Trail between April 26 and May 2 to discover delicate spring blooms of all shapes and sizes. Interpretive signs will be posted along the way to guide your learning experience! LP/Twinsburg Ledges

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

SPRING BIRD WALK


It’s migration time! New and experienced birders can join a naturalist in search of birds from warblers to waterfowl. Binoculars are recommended. Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/21: 330-865-8065. LP/Pond Brook

Leaf Icon Monday, April 26, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX


Get fit while you sit! 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! Zoom meeting ID: 811 2811 3352 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Monday, April 26, 6:00 PM - 6:30 PM

NATURE STORIES WITH MOTHER NATURE


Mother Nature is calling all young ones for a nature themed story time! Gather around as we explore a nature tale told by none other than Mother Nature herself. Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to remain with your family group, distanced from others. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/23: 330-865-8065. FASN/Seneca Deck

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

WEEKDAY WALKERS RE-IMAGINED


Chat with a naturalist at the Old Mill trailhead before you begin your hike for additional information to guide an exploration of nature and history. Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 28, 2:00 PM - 2:30 PM

FACEBOOK LIVE: SUMMIT LAKE NATURE CENTER


Join us at the brand-new Summit Lake Nature Center in Akron! See the building's exterior spaces, learn about local natural history and hear what we've got planned for the site in the coming months! Facebook: , OH

Leaf Icon Wednesday, April 28, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

VIRTUAL: KINDEREALM - GROWING GARDENS


Children ages 3 to 6, join a naturalist to learn all about vegetable gardens! We'll talk garden critters, garden plants and starting a garden of your own! Zoom meeting ID: 872 3291 6801 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 29, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX


Get fit while you sit! 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! Zoom meeting ID: 849 6465 8634 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Thursday, April 29, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

GOOD GARDENS: SEED SWAP AND STARTING WORKSHOP


Bring seeds to share, donate or trade with fellow gardeners. A short workshop and demonstration will cover the best practices for starting seeds indoors as well as directly sowing outside. Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/5: 330-865-8065. GYH/Main Entrance

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

VIRTUAL: VIOLETS, TOOTHWORT & TRILLIUM, OH MY!


Ready to learn about wildflowers? Let’s peek at what is in bloom through Zoom. See vivid pictures and learn about historical uses of these plants and the unusual ways they were named. The naturalist will suggest great locations to view them in the Metro Parks. Zoom meeting ID: 881 6161 3399 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Friday, April 30, 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM

SUMMIT LAKE SCENERY


Join a naturalist for a hike around the Summit Lake Loop Trail. Observe your surroundings in the heart of spring as nature prepares for summer. Participants must wear a mask and be prepared to maintain social distance from others. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 4/24: 330-865-8065. Reach Opportunity Center Parking Lot: 390 W. Crosier St. Akron, OH 44301