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.

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Leaf Icon Wednesday, November 01, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: RAPTORS


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions will discover which hawks and other birds of prey soar in our parks. A craft and short walk are included. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 10/25: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, November 01, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

OWLS & HOWLS


Join a naturalist after dark to search for some of the park’s most elusive residents. After a presentation in the shelter, we will take a quiet hike to call these creatures with hopes they will respond with hoots and howls. Bring your patience, curiosity and a small flashlight if you wish. Good for spree credit. WH

Leaf Icon Thursday, November 02, 6:00 AM

SELF-GUIDED: WINTER BIRDS


Earn spree credit and discover what Ohio birds are up to when winter sets in! This self-guided hike will be on display along Seneca Trail through November 9. Good for spree credit. FASN

Leaf Icon Thursday, November 02, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX


Get fit while you sit! Enjoy an online 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, November 02, 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

KIDS IN THE GARDEN


Join us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron for this gardening program for children of all ages. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what's growing and ready to harvest in the garden. SLNC

Leaf Icon Thursday, November 02, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

GOOD GARDEN TALKS: MAKING BIRDHOUSE GOURDS


Join us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron and OSU Extension to make a birdhouse from a gourd! All supplies will be provided. In the event of inclement weather, the program will be held inside Summit Lake Nature Center. SLNC

Leaf Icon Friday, November 03, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

SENIOR SAUNTER


Whether you're a senior by age or just want to enjoy the outdoors at a leisurely pace, join us to savor nature in late fall. Bring a mug to enjoy a warm beverage afterward. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Friday, November 03, 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

QUARRY HIKE


Join a naturalist for a hike on the 1.4-mile Quarry Trail for spree credit! This trail is rated moderate. Hiking boots or sturdy shoes are recommended. Good for spree credit. DLQ

Leaf Icon Saturday, November 04, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

BIRD NERDS: GAME BIRDS


Bird enthusiasts of all kinds are invited to join us as we explore a new group of birds each month of 2023. We're talking adaptations, behavior, identification and more. This will be an all-indoors presentation. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, November 04, 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

UPCYCLED PAPER BEAD JEWELRY


Learn how to use colorful pieces of paper to create a simple, beautiful piece of jewelry - perfect as a special holiday gift! All materials will be supplied. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 10/26: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, November 05, 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM

SELF-GUIDED STORYBOOK TRAIL: TIME TO SLEEP


Enjoy some exercise and fresh air while following a self-guided hike based on the book, "Time to Sleep." Look for it along Downy Loop Trail through November 26. Good for spree credit. WH

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

SEED HARVESTING WORKSHOP


Learn the art of native seed head identification, collection and preservation with a naturalist, then get hands-on as we collect native seeds as a group. You will go home with some of your bounty! ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 10/27: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, November 05, 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. SLNC

Leaf Icon Sunday, November 05, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

HISTORY HIKE: LIBERTY PARK


Hike with a naturalist along the 2.1-mile Black Bear Trail to learn about the natural and cultural history of Liberty Park and the surrounding city of Twinsburg. Good for spree credit. LP/Twinsburg Ledges

Leaf Icon Monday, November 06, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX


Get fit while you sit! Enjoy an online 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 Tuesday, November 07, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS


Join our interpretive artist for an entertaining lesson in nature drawing. Bring a sketchbook, pencil and a sense of humor. Beginners are welcome. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/1: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, November 08, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS


Join our interpretive artist for an entertaining lesson in nature drawing. Bring a sketchbook, pencil and a sense of humor. Beginners are welcome. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/1: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, November 08, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: RAPTORS


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions will discover which hawks and other birds of prey soar in our parks. A craft and short walk are included. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 10/25: 330-865-8065. SLNC

Leaf Icon Wednesday, November 08, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

VIRTUAL: NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS


Join our interpretive artist online 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 11/1: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Thursday, November 09, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS


Join our interpretive artist for an entertaining lesson in nature drawing. Bring a sketchbook, pencil and a sense of humor. Beginners are welcome. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/1: 330-865-8065. SLNC

Leaf Icon Thursday, November 09, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX


Get fit while you sit! Enjoy an online 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, November 09, 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM

INTRO TO ARCHERY


Participants will learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our temporary indoor range. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be 9 years old and 50 inches or taller. Cost: $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 11/1: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Thursday, November 09, 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM

BEGINNER KNOT TYING


This is “knot” a drill! If you're looking to step into the beautiful world of knots, then this class is for you. We will explore the essentials of knot tying and learn how and when to use them. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/2: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, November 09, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

INTRO TO ARCHERY


Participants will learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our temporary indoor range. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be 9 years old and 50 inches or taller. Cost: $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 11/1: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Friday, November 10, 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM

AUTUMN NATURE TALES


Young children and their adult companions will enjoy this interactive, autumn-themed story time. Make it a fun, family-friendly morning by exploring the park or visiting the nature play area after the program. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Friday, November 10, 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM

PREDATOR AND PREY HIKE


Join a naturalist to earn spree credit as we hike the 1.2-mile Oxbow Trail and discuss the amazing roles predators and prey play in the natural world. Be prepared for this trail's mighty climb! Good for spree credit. CV/Oxbow

Leaf Icon Saturday, November 11, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

WHO WERE THE SENECA?


Learn about the Seneca, an Indigenous People who lived in Ohio during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, as we hike Seneca Trail and earn spree credit. Good for spree credit. FASN/Seneca Deck

Leaf Icon Saturday, November 11, 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, November 11, 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM

HISTORY AND MYSTERY IN CLINTON


Join a naturalist for a lantern hike along the Towpath Trail to learn about the local lore and legends of the Clinton area. TT/Clinton

Leaf Icon Sunday, November 12, 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM

FALL HIKING SPREE AND BIRD FEEDING


Join us to hike the 1.1-mile Redwing Trail and earn spree credit.. Along the way, we will pause to handfeed the birds and chat about other wildlife residents of Firestone Metro Park. Good for spree credit. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Sunday, November 12, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS


Join our interpretive artist for this entertaining lesson in nature drawing for kids ages 6 to 12. All materials will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/8: 330-865-8065. FASN

Leaf Icon Sunday, November 12, 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

EYE SPY AND CAMPFIRE


Hit the trail for a nature-themed game of Eye Spy. Pick up your scavenger hunt list between noon and 3 p.m., then explore the 2.1-mile Black Bear Trail - good for spree credit - and other areas in search of animals, plants and more. Afterward, stop by the campfire ring to roast some marshmallows and return your completed list for a prize. Good for spree credit. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, November 12, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

VIRTUAL: NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS


Join our interpretive artist online for this entertaining virtual lesson in nature drawing for kids ages 6 to12. All you need is a pencil and paper. A Zoom invitation will be emailed to participants after registration. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/8: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Monday, November 13, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX


Get fit while you sit! Enjoy an online 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 Wednesday, November 15, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

NATURE JOURNALING FOR ADULTS


Join our interpretive artist for an inspiring lesson in nature journaling as a technique for practicing mindfulness. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/9: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, November 15, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: RAPTORS


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions will discover which hawks and other birds of prey soar in our parks. A craft and short walk are included. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 10/25: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, November 15, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

VIRTUAL: NATURE JOURNALING FOR ADULTS


Join our interpretive artist online for an inspiring virtual lesson in nature journaling as a technique for practicing mindfulness. A Zoom invitation will be emailed to participants after registering. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/9: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Wednesday, November 15, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

INDIGENOUS PEOPLES: A REFLECTION OF THEIR WORLDS THROUGH SYMBOLS


Enjoy a guided tour of the Oak Gallery and the Oak Native American Ethnographic Collection at the Institute for Human Science & Culture, located inside the Cummings Center at The University of Akron. Explore symbols used in art and design of cultural objects by Indigenous Peoples to represent all types of connections including ties to their families, the land and their beliefs. Free public parking is available next to Cummings Center and on Lot 30. Registration required: https://tinyurl.com/4yphjmem ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 8/1: Register here. Oak Gallery & Oak Native American Ethnographic Collection at Institute for Human Science & Culture: 73 S College St. Akron, OH 44325 (330) 972-7285

Leaf Icon Thursday, November 16, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

NATURE COLLAGE


Let's make a beautiful, nature-inspired collage using recycled paper! Join our interpretive artist for this easy, fun lesson. All materials will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/10: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, November 16, 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: SAVING WILD SEEDS


Homeschoolers ages 7 to 14: join a naturalist to learn the many benefits of native plants through engaging, hands-on activities, then hit the trail to harvest some native seeds of your own! Please bring gardening gloves and come prepared to spend time outside. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/9: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, November 16, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX


Get fit while you sit! Enjoy an online 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, November 16, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

VIRTUAL: NATURE COLLAGE


Let's make a beautiful, nature-inspired collage using recycled paper! Join our interpretive artist online for this easy, fun lesson. A list of materials and a Zoom invite will be emailed after registering. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/10: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Thursday, November 16, 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: SAVING WILD SEEDS


Homeschoolers ages 7 to 12: join a naturalist to learn the many benefits of native plants through engaging, hands-on activities, then hit the trail to harvest some native seeds of your own! Please bring gardening gloves and come prepared to spend time outside. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/9: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, November 17, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

NATURE TRIVIA NIGHT


So you think you know nature? Grab your crew of 2 to 6 adults and compete against other teams to prove yourselves at the return of SMP's nature-themed trivia night. From bees to trees and rocks to hawks, our topics will test your knowledge on everything natural about Ohio. Refreshments will be available and prizes will be waiting for those who place first, second and third. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/8: 330-865-8065. CV/Valley View

Leaf Icon Saturday, November 18, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

FOLLOW THE FOOTPRINTS


Join a naturalist as we look for signs of life by following tracks, chewed twigs, disturbed areas, scrapes and scat left by animals as they get ready for winter. We will search for clues to see who left them and what they might be doing. LP/Pond Brook

Leaf Icon Saturday, November 18, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

INDIGENOUS PEOPLES: A REFLECTION OF THEIR WORLDS THROUGH SYMBOLS


Enjoy a guided tour of the Oak Gallery and the Oak Native American Ethnographic Collection at the Institute for Human Science & Culture, located inside the Cummings Center at The University of Akron. Explore symbols used in art and design of cultural objects by Indigenous Peoples to represent all types of connections including ties to their families, the land and their beliefs. Free public parking is available next to Cummings Center and on Lot 30. Registration required: https://tinyurl.com/4yphjmem ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 8/1: Register here. Oak Gallery & Oak Native American Ethnographic Collection at Institute for Human Science & Culture: 73 S. College St. Akron, OH 44325 (330) 972-7285

Leaf Icon Saturday, November 18, 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, November 19, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

DEEP LOCK QUARRY HISTORY HIKE


Join a naturalist to learn all about this beautiful park and how it helped shape the foundation of Akron as we hike along the 1.4-mile Quarry Trail. DLQ

Leaf Icon Sunday, November 19, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

WINTER TREE AND SHRUB ID


How do you properly identify a dogwood tree? By its "bark," of course! Join a naturalist to hike the 2.1-mile Black Bear Trail, identifying many of the trees and shrubs along the way. By the end of the program, you will be able to easily tell the difference between spicebush, beech, maple, oak and dogwood trees. Good for spree credit. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, November 19, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

FALL LEAF CRAFT


Create your own handmade fall fabric leaf applique craft using stencils and canvas. All supplies will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/15: 330-865-8065. SLNC

Leaf Icon Monday, November 20, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX


Get fit while you sit! Enjoy an online 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 Wednesday, November 22, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

LET'S TALK TURKEYS


Join a naturalist as we talk about two types of turkeys - the wild turkey and the turkey vulture. Gobble up some new facts about these two impressive birds. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, November 22, 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

SCHOOL'S OUT S'MORES


Stop by to enjoy Thanksgiving break with a campfire and tasty s'mores! Afterward, explore the nature center, take a hike or try your hand at feeding the chickadees. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, November 25, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

SAND RUN HIKE


Join a naturalist for a hike on the 3-mile Mingo Trail and earn spree credit! This trail is rated strenuous and primitive. Hiking shoes are recommended. Good for spree credit. SR/Mingo

Leaf Icon Saturday, November 25, 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, November 26, 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

WINTER BIRD DROP IN


Drop in to learn about winter birds, make a treat for your own backyard birds, then try your luck at hand-feeding the chickadees. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, November 26, 1:00 PM - 1:30 PM

UNDER THE ICE


Where did all the turtles go? Join a naturalist to find out what turtles are up to when temperatures drop and how they keep up their daily routine through brumation. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Tuesday, November 28, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

FULL MOON DISCOVERY


Enjoy the warmth of a fire in the nature center while learning all about the moon, its cycles and more! After a short presentation, all are welcome to venture outside to get a closer look at the moon through a telescope. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, November 29, 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM

INTRO TO ARCHERY


Participants will learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our temporary indoor range. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be 9 years old and 50 inches or taller. Cost: $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 11/22: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Wednesday, November 29, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

INTRO TO ARCHERY


Participants will learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our temporary indoor range. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be 9 years old and 50 inches or taller. Cost: $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 11/22: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Thursday, November 30, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX


Get fit while you sit! Enjoy an online 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, November 30, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: FAMILY HIKE


Homeschoolers and their families: join a naturalist on a 1.6-mile hike to learn about native plants, their importance and how to collect seeds. Enjoy a scavenger hunt and hands-on activities. Come prepared to be outside. SFB

Leaf Icon Thursday, November 30, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

LAST CHANCE SPREE HIKE


Join a naturalist to explore nature and history with one last Fall Hiking Spree hike along the 2.1-mile Black Bear Trail. LP/Nature Center