Twice as Nice Hike
There's more than one way to experience the same trail. Join a naturalist for a brisk, health-focused first lap followed by a slower exploration of Parcours Trail. Total distance is 3.4 miles.
35 events found.
Nature Education
Beginning January 2026, all program registration will be online. Registration will now open at 8:30 a.m. on the first day of the month prior to the program. Please register for the individuals in your household only. If you have questions regarding this new process, please call Nature Realm Visitors Center at 330-865-8065 (Wednesday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sunday, 12 – 5 p.m.).
Programs & Events
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1 event,Kinderealm: MothsChildren 3 to 6 and their adult companions will take a closer look at what makes these amazing, night-flying, butterfly cousins so special. A craft and short walk are included. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. |
2 events,Kids In The GardenJoin us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron for this weekly 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. Fly Vs FlyDiscover the world of insect subterfuge. Plenty of insects engage in mimicry, but none quite like the firefly. Join a naturalist on a catch and release mission to crack the code of these cunning insects.
Silver Creek Metro Park
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1 event,Kinderealm: Sandhill CranesChildren ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will learn about sandhill cranes, unique birds dating back to prehistoric times that dance, yell, build floating nests and are celebrated as a symbol of good fortune. Children will enjoy a craft, educational activities, a game and music. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable […]
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
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0 events,
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2 events,Self-Guided: Storybook TrailEnjoy a fun, active walk following a self-guided story trail based on the book "Chipmunk Song." Look for it along Old Mill Trail through August 25.
Furnace Run Metro Park
Psyched About SnakesJoin a naturalist to learn about all things serpentine! We will discuss what makes snakes so fascinating and why they aren't as scary as they may seem. A live snake ambassador will give us a close look at their unique features.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
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1 event,Spiders For KidsKids and their adult companions will join a naturalist to explore the amazing variety of Ohio's friendly neighborhood spiders. After some fun in the shelter, we'll take a walk in search of creepy crawlies!
Wood Hollow Metro Park
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0 events,
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0 events,
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3 events,Lil’ SproutsThis biweekly program is designed to engage young children and accompanying adults in the wonderful world of gardening. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what’s growing and ready to harvest! Adults are asked to actively participate with children during the program. Kids In The GardenJoin us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron for this weekly 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. |
1 event,Kinderealm: Sandhill CranesChildren ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will learn about sandhill cranes, unique birds dating back to prehistoric times that dance, yell, build floating nests and are celebrated as a symbol of good fortune. Children will enjoy a craft, educational activities, a game and music. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable […]
Liberty Park
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2 events,Beginner Prairie BirdingNo experience? No problem! Join a naturalist for a hike along the 1.6-mile Prairie Trail to experience the joys of prairie birding. Binoculars are available to borrow on a first come, first-served basis.
Springfield Bog Metro Park
Tent Camping For FamiliesFamilies with children under 14 are invited to join naturalists for a fun and relaxing overnight tent camping experience! Activities include guided nature activities, a campfire, s'mores and games. Please bring your own camping equipment, including food, sleeping gear, toiletries and chairs. No gear? No problem! Request a free camping kit with essentials during registration, […]
Silver Creek Metro Park
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2 events,What’S The Deal With Beaver Food?Why do beavers do what they do? Join a naturalist to learn about the American beaver and why they’re always knockin’ down trees.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
Rain Barrel WorkshopLearn how to conserve water in your outdoor spaces. Registration cost includes a rain barrel kit, 55-gallon food grade plastic drum and instruction on assembly and upkeep. Option available to assemble on-site or take kit home. Bring a handheld power drill, gloves and eye protection if you have them. Cost: $60/kit.
Liberty Park
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2 events,After Work Bird WalkLess work, more warblers. Escape the office and enjoy a relaxed bird walk on the 1.4-mile Alder Trail.
Goodyear Heights Metro Park
Virtual: Purple Martins Take FlightIt’s a bird cyclone! Join us online to discover the magical and mysterious story of the charismatic purple martin that mesmerizes paddlers at Nimisila Reservoir Metro Park and throughout the world. Meeting ID: 861 3928 6682 |
0 events,
|
1 event,Kinderealm: Sandhill CranesChildren ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will learn about sandhill cranes, unique birds dating back to prehistoric times that dance, yell, build floating nests and are celebrated as a symbol of good fortune. Children will enjoy a craft, educational activities, a game and music. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable […] |
2 events,
–
Kids In The GardenJoin us in collaboration with Let’s Grow Akron for this weekly 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.
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Bat NightBats are some of the most fascinating and beneficial creatures of the night! Join SMP staff in conjunction with The University of Akron Field Station to learn about these amazing mammals as we attempt to catch live bats with nets for observation and data collection. Follow the parkway until it ends at the field station. […] |
3 events,
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Summer Nature TalesYoung children and their adult companions can enjoy an interactive summer-themed story time. Make it a fun, family-friendly morning by exploring the park or visiting the Nature Play area after the program.
Liberty Park
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Celebrating BeesJoin us for a presentation about Ohio’s native bees and identifying them. “Bee” prepared for a short hike to see what species we can discover!
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
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Marvelous Moths Of Deep Lock QuarryJoin a naturalist to attract moths using special lights and sheets as we observe these insects’ beautiful colors, shapes and patterns up close. We will hope for the big silk moths to join us! Bring a flashlight and bug spray.
Deep Lock Quarry Metro Park
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1 event,
–
Dragons & DamselsJoin a naturalist to learn basic identification tips and why dragonflies and damselflies are so important to the ecosystem. We’ll search the area around Seven Ponds Trail to see how many species we can find.
Liberty Park
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2 events,
–
Caterpillars Count!Discover the beauty of these soft-bodied arthropods, the important role they play in our native food webs and what they tell us about our world in the face of climate change. Enjoy a presentation followed by a short hike in search of caterpillars.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
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Woodland MushroomsA walk in the woods can reveal otherwise overlooked wonders of nature. Hike with a naturalist to discover the beauty, variety and ecology of mushrooms. Sturdy shoes, bug spray and drinking water are recommended.
Deep Lock Quarry Metro Park
|
0 events,
|
1 event,
Self-Guided: Wild WonderDoes nature fill you with whimsy? Do you experience bouts of childlike wonder? Let loose and explore the natural world from a new perspective as you hike along the 1-mile Fernwood Trail. This experience is available through August 31.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
|
2 events,
–
Shrunken TuscarawasOnce as wide as 600 feet, the Tuscarawas River has been instrumental in the development of Ohio. Hike along the 1.6-mile Willow Trail and portions of the Walking Course to experience the gentle Tuscarawas as it is today and learn what the landscape was like in centuries past.
Firestone Metro Park
|
5 events,
–
Lil’ SproutsThis biweekly program is designed to engage young children and accompanying adults in the wonderful world of gardening. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what’s growing and ready to harvest! Adults are asked to actively participate with children during the program. Registration is required and begins 8/1.
Towpath Trail
–
Storytime In The Park: Stone SoupSharing really is caring. Bring your little ones to Summit Lake Nature Center for a classic story and cooking activity! Registration is required and begins 8/14.
Towpath Trail
–
Kids In The GardenJoin us in collaboration with Let’s Grow Akron for this weekly 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.
Towpath Trail
|
2 events,
–
Nature SaunterAppreciate the outdoors at a leisurely pace with a stroll along the 1.4-mile Quarry Trail. Enjoy a beverage and nature conversation afterward.
Deep Lock Quarry Metro Park
|
2 events,
–
Bird Nerds: FlightNewbies and experts alike are welcome to join us in this lively series for a fun, approachable discussion on a new bird topic each month. This month, we’ll take a look at the power of flight and how it influences a bird’s world.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
|
2 events,
–
Fall Hiking Spree Kick-OffGet a head start on the 2024 Fall Hiking Spree! Hiking forms will be available and Fall Hiking Spree t-shirts will be for sale. Hike the new 1.1-mile Missing Link Trail any time this day to earn spree credit. To receive your hiking staff and/or shield, all other hikes must be completed between September 1 […]
Cascade Valley Metro Park
|
1 event, |
1 event, |
2 events,
–
Grand GrassesImagine steel blue and crimson gold stems growing upwards of six feet tall! These aren’t your neighbor’s lawn grasses. Hike the 1.6-mile Prairie Trail and learn just how amazing and important wild grasses really are.
Springfield Bog Metro Park
|
2 events,
–
Kids In The GardenJoin us in collaboration with Let’s Grow Akron for this weekly 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.
Towpath Trail
|
1 event, |
2 events,
–
Native FernsJoin a naturalist to learn about and look for Northeast Ohio’s native ferns. Discover their unique characteristics and how to incorporate them into your landscape to provide “soft landings.”
Liberty Park
|
Twice as Nice Hike
There's more than one way to experience the same trail. Join a naturalist for a brisk, health-focused first lap followed by a slower exploration of Parcours Trail. Total distance is 3.4 miles.
Kinderealm: Moths
Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions will take a closer look at what makes these amazing, night-flying, butterfly cousins so special. A craft and short walk are included. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers.
Kids In The Garden
Join us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron for this weekly 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.
Fly Vs Fly
Discover the world of insect subterfuge. Plenty of insects engage in mimicry, but none quite like the firefly. Join a naturalist on a catch and release mission to crack the code of these cunning insects.
Silver Creek Metro Park
Kinderealm: Sandhill Cranes
Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will learn about sandhill cranes, unique birds dating back to prehistoric times that dance, yell, build floating nests and are celebrated as a symbol of good fortune. Children will enjoy a craft, educational activities, a game and music. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats…
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
Self-Guided: Storybook Trail
Enjoy a fun, active walk following a self-guided story trail based on the book "Chipmunk Song." Look for it along Old Mill Trail through August 25.
Furnace Run Metro Park
Psyched About Snakes
Join a naturalist to learn about all things serpentine! We will discuss what makes snakes so fascinating and why they aren't as scary as they may seem. A live snake ambassador will give us a close look at their unique features.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
Spiders For Kids
Kids and their adult companions will join a naturalist to explore the amazing variety of Ohio's friendly neighborhood spiders. After some fun in the shelter, we'll take a walk in search of creepy crawlies!
Wood Hollow Metro Park
Lil’ Sprouts
This biweekly program is designed to engage young children and accompanying adults in the wonderful world of gardening. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what’s growing and ready to harvest! Adults are asked to actively participate with children during the program.
Kids In The Garden
Join us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron for this weekly 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.
Bat Night
Bats are some of the most fascinating and beneficial creatures of the night! Join us to learn about these fantastic flying insectivores as we attempt to catch live bats with nets for observation and data collection.
Silver Creek Metro Park
Kinderealm: Sandhill Cranes
Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will learn about sandhill cranes, unique birds dating back to prehistoric times that dance, yell, build floating nests and are celebrated as a symbol of good fortune. Children will enjoy a craft, educational activities, a game and music. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats…
Liberty Park
Beginner Prairie Birding
No experience? No problem! Join a naturalist for a hike along the 1.6-mile Prairie Trail to experience the joys of prairie birding. Binoculars are available to borrow on a first come, first-served basis.
Springfield Bog Metro Park
Tent Camping For Families
Families with children under 14 are invited to join naturalists for a fun and relaxing overnight tent camping experience! Activities include guided nature activities, a campfire, s'mores and games. Please bring your own camping equipment, including food, sleeping gear, toiletries and chairs. No gear? No problem! Request a free camping kit with essentials during registration, available while supplies last.
Silver Creek Metro Park
What’S The Deal With Beaver Food?
Why do beavers do what they do? Join a naturalist to learn about the American beaver and why they’re always knockin’ down trees.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
Rain Barrel Workshop
Learn how to conserve water in your outdoor spaces. Registration cost includes a rain barrel kit, 55-gallon food grade plastic drum and instruction on assembly and upkeep. Option available to assemble on-site or take kit home. Bring a handheld power drill, gloves and eye protection if you have them. Cost: $60/kit.
Liberty Park
After Work Bird Walk
Less work, more warblers. Escape the office and enjoy a relaxed bird walk on the 1.4-mile Alder Trail.
Goodyear Heights Metro Park
Virtual: Purple Martins Take Flight
It’s a bird cyclone! Join us online to discover the magical and mysterious story of the charismatic purple martin that mesmerizes paddlers at Nimisila Reservoir Metro Park and throughout the world. Meeting ID: 861 3928 6682
Kinderealm: Sandhill Cranes
Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will learn about sandhill cranes, unique birds dating back to prehistoric times that dance, yell, build floating nests and are celebrated as a symbol of good fortune. Children will enjoy a craft, educational activities, a game and music. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats…
Kids In The Garden
Join us in collaboration with Let’s Grow Akron for this weekly 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.
Bat Night
Bats are some of the most fascinating and beneficial creatures of the night! Join SMP staff in conjunction with The University of Akron Field Station to learn about these amazing mammals as we attempt to catch live bats with nets for observation and data collection. Follow the parkway until it ends at the field station. Registration is required and begins…
Summer Nature Tales
Young children and their adult companions can enjoy an interactive summer-themed story time. Make it a fun, family-friendly morning by exploring the park or visiting the Nature Play area after the program.
Liberty Park
Celebrating Bees
Join us for a presentation about Ohio’s native bees and identifying them. “Bee” prepared for a short hike to see what species we can discover!
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
Marvelous Moths Of Deep Lock Quarry
Join a naturalist to attract moths using special lights and sheets as we observe these insects’ beautiful colors, shapes and patterns up close. We will hope for the big silk moths to join us! Bring a flashlight and bug spray.
Deep Lock Quarry Metro Park
Dragons & Damsels
Join a naturalist to learn basic identification tips and why dragonflies and damselflies are so important to the ecosystem. We’ll search the area around Seven Ponds Trail to see how many species we can find.
Liberty Park
Caterpillars Count!
Discover the beauty of these soft-bodied arthropods, the important role they play in our native food webs and what they tell us about our world in the face of climate change. Enjoy a presentation followed by a short hike in search of caterpillars.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
Woodland Mushrooms
A walk in the woods can reveal otherwise overlooked wonders of nature. Hike with a naturalist to discover the beauty, variety and ecology of mushrooms. Sturdy shoes, bug spray and drinking water are recommended.
Deep Lock Quarry Metro Park
Self-Guided: Wild Wonder
Does nature fill you with whimsy? Do you experience bouts of childlike wonder? Let loose and explore the natural world from a new perspective as you hike along the 1-mile Fernwood Trail. This experience is available through August 31.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
Self-Guided: Wild Wonder
Does nature fill you with whimsy? Do you experience bouts of childlike wonder? Let loose and explore the natural world from a new perspective as you hike along the 1-mile Fernwood Trail. This experience is available through August 31.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
Shrunken Tuscarawas
Once as wide as 600 feet, the Tuscarawas River has been instrumental in the development of Ohio. Hike along the 1.6-mile Willow Trail and portions of the Walking Course to experience the gentle Tuscarawas as it is today and learn what the landscape was like in centuries past.
Firestone Metro Park
Self-Guided: Wild Wonder
Does nature fill you with whimsy? Do you experience bouts of childlike wonder? Let loose and explore the natural world from a new perspective as you hike along the 1-mile Fernwood Trail. This experience is available through August 31.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
Lil’ Sprouts
This biweekly program is designed to engage young children and accompanying adults in the wonderful world of gardening. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what’s growing and ready to harvest! Adults are asked to actively participate with children during the program. Registration is required and begins 8/1.
Towpath Trail
Storytime In The Park: Stone Soup
Sharing really is caring. Bring your little ones to Summit Lake Nature Center for a classic story and cooking activity! Registration is required and begins 8/14.
Towpath Trail
Kids In The Garden
Join us in collaboration with Let’s Grow Akron for this weekly 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.
Towpath Trail
Self-Guided: Wild Wonder
Does nature fill you with whimsy? Do you experience bouts of childlike wonder? Let loose and explore the natural world from a new perspective as you hike along the 1-mile Fernwood Trail. This experience is available through August 31.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
Nature Saunter
Appreciate the outdoors at a leisurely pace with a stroll along the 1.4-mile Quarry Trail. Enjoy a beverage and nature conversation afterward.
Deep Lock Quarry Metro Park
Self-Guided: Wild Wonder
Does nature fill you with whimsy? Do you experience bouts of childlike wonder? Let loose and explore the natural world from a new perspective as you hike along the 1-mile Fernwood Trail. This experience is available through August 31.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
Bird Nerds: Flight
Newbies and experts alike are welcome to join us in this lively series for a fun, approachable discussion on a new bird topic each month. This month, we’ll take a look at the power of flight and how it influences a bird’s world.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
Self-Guided: Wild Wonder
Does nature fill you with whimsy? Do you experience bouts of childlike wonder? Let loose and explore the natural world from a new perspective as you hike along the 1-mile Fernwood Trail. This experience is available through August 31.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
Fall Hiking Spree Kick-Off
Get a head start on the 2024 Fall Hiking Spree! Hiking forms will be available and Fall Hiking Spree t-shirts will be for sale. Hike the new 1.1-mile Missing Link Trail any time this day to earn spree credit. To receive your hiking staff and/or shield, all other hikes must be completed between September 1 and November 30.
Cascade Valley Metro Park
Self-Guided: Wild Wonder
Does nature fill you with whimsy? Do you experience bouts of childlike wonder? Let loose and explore the natural world from a new perspective as you hike along the 1-mile Fernwood Trail. This experience is available through August 31.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
Self-Guided: Wild Wonder
Does nature fill you with whimsy? Do you experience bouts of childlike wonder? Let loose and explore the natural world from a new perspective as you hike along the 1-mile Fernwood Trail. This experience is available through August 31.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
Self-Guided: Wild Wonder
Does nature fill you with whimsy? Do you experience bouts of childlike wonder? Let loose and explore the natural world from a new perspective as you hike along the 1-mile Fernwood Trail. This experience is available through August 31.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
Grand Grasses
Imagine steel blue and crimson gold stems growing upwards of six feet tall! These aren’t your neighbor’s lawn grasses. Hike the 1.6-mile Prairie Trail and learn just how amazing and important wild grasses really are.
Springfield Bog Metro Park
Self-Guided: Wild Wonder
Does nature fill you with whimsy? Do you experience bouts of childlike wonder? Let loose and explore the natural world from a new perspective as you hike along the 1-mile Fernwood Trail. This experience is available through August 31.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
Kids In The Garden
Join us in collaboration with Let’s Grow Akron for this weekly 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.
Towpath Trail
Self-Guided: Wild Wonder
Does nature fill you with whimsy? Do you experience bouts of childlike wonder? Let loose and explore the natural world from a new perspective as you hike along the 1-mile Fernwood Trail. This experience is available through August 31.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
Self-Guided: Wild Wonder
Does nature fill you with whimsy? Do you experience bouts of childlike wonder? Let loose and explore the natural world from a new perspective as you hike along the 1-mile Fernwood Trail. This experience is available through August 31.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
Native Ferns
Join a naturalist to learn about and look for Northeast Ohio’s native ferns. Discover their unique characteristics and how to incorporate them into your landscape to provide “soft landings.”
Liberty Park