Summit Metro Parks
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.).
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5 events,
SELF-GUIDED STORYBOOK TRAIL: REMEMBEREnjoy some exercise and fresh air while following a self-guided story trail based on the book “Remember.” Look for it along the 1.3-mile Rock Creek Trail through October 27. Good for spree credit.
Furnace Run Metro Park
Free
Self-Guided: Indigenous HistoryHike the 1.1-mile Ledges Trail through November 3 to discover how the First People of this area utilized its unique flora, fauna and geology through informational signs posted along the path. Good for spree credit.
Liberty Park
Free
Self-Guided: BatsCome learn all about our native, flying mammals: the bat! Hike along the 1.1-mile Redwing Trail through October 30 to learn all about our flying friends before they begin to hibernate for the season.
Firestone Metro Park
Free
–
Life Under LogsAnyone home? Join a naturalist to discover the complex and secretive life that exists under logs and leaf litter. We will be mindfully stepping off trail and looking under logs and leaves to find forest friends.
Hampton Hills Metro Park
Free
–
Creatures of the WaterJoin a naturalist as we learn about the strange yet interesting creatures that live in streams and wetlands. We will discuss several species of crayfish, fresh water mussels and the Hellbender, the largest species of salamander in Ohio. Learn why they are critical to local waterways and how they act as indicator species when something […]
Liberty Park
Free
|
3 events,
–
Creepy Crawly CraftDon’t get spooked — insects can be cute, too! Drop by to discover some of this season’s creepy crawly creatures and create your own to take home, while supplies last.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
Free
|
1 event, |
2 events,
–
Autumn Nature TalesYoung children and their adult companions can 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.
Liberty Park
Free
|
2 events,
–
Boots & BirdsGet your hiking boots and binoculars to earn spree credit on this mid-morning bird walk on the 1.6-mile Willow Trail.
Firestone Metro Park
Free
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||
2 events,
Self-guided Story Trail: Leaf ManAs late fall gives way to winter, enjoy a self-guided hike based on the book, “Leaf Man” along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through November 24.
Wood Hollow Metro Park
Free
|
1 event, |
1 event, |
2 events,
–
Kinderealm: Who’s Ready for a Nap?Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions will explore how some wildlife friends are preparing for long naps to survive the winter. Program includes a walk and craft. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. Registration is required and begins on 10/31.
Free
|
1 event, |
4 events,
–
Leaves for Little OnesJoin a naturalist for all things leaves, including a read aloud of Lois Ehlert’s “Leaf Man”. Following the story, we will take a short hike and build our own “leaf men” to take home. Most suitable for ages 3-6 and children must be accompanied by an adult.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
Free
–
Nature SaunterAppreciate the outdoors at a leisurely pace with a stroll along the 0.6-mile Bluebird Trail. Enjoy a beverage and nature conversation afterward.
Liberty Park
Free
–
Nature Trivia NightSo you think you know nature? Grab your crew of 2-6 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 all night, and prizes […]
Firestone Metro Park
Free
|
2 events,
–
Geology of the LedgesTake a step back in time and learn about the geology of the Twinsburg Ledges. Learn how they were created, what they are made of, and their importance to the ecosystem. We will be hiking about a mile on uneven and rocky terrain and going into the conservation area. Boots are recommended.
Liberty Park
Free
|
1 event, |
1 event, |
3 events,
Self-Guided: Scat and TracksHike the 1.4-mile Seneca Trail through November 20th to explore the secrets of identifying wildlife using only what they leave behind.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
Free
|
3 events,
–
Kinderealm: Who’s Ready for a Nap?Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions will explore how some wildlife friends are preparing for long naps to survive the winter. Program includes a walk and craft. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. Registration is required and begins on 10/31.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
Free
|
3 events,
–
Words of the Season: AutumnJoin a writer-turned-naturalist for a talk on autumn’s themes in literature and the real-life reasons behind them.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
Free
|
3 events,
–
Full Moon Night HikeWhen the full moon’s aglow, we start the show! Come join a naturalist to hike at night, and see Cascade Valley in a whole new light.
Cascade Valley Metro Park
Free
|
7 events,
–
Early Morning HikeRise and shine! Get an early start to the day by hiking the 1.1 mile Missing Link Trail with a naturalist. Along the way, we’ll explore who else might be up early. Dress for the weather and if you have binoculars, bring them along. Several extra pairs will be available for use.
Cascade Valley Metro Park
Free
–
Towpath Tales HikeLearn about the importance of the Towpath Trail’s southern terminus for Indigenous Peoples along this 3.4-mile leg of the Towpath Trail (from Wilbeth to Manchester Road and back).
Towpath Trail
Free
–
Early Thanksgiving for the BirdsFamilies can drop in to learn about feathered friends that will stick around all winter, create a treat for the birds in their backyard and try their luck at hand-feeding chickadees.
Liberty Park
Free
|
5 events,
–
Seedhead ID & Harvest HikeHike the late fall prairie and learn to identify native wildflower seedheads. Bring your own envelopes or small paper bags to take some seeds home.
Cascade Valley Metro Park
Free
–
Deep Lock History HikeWe will be hiking Quarry Trail and talking about the history of the area.
Deep Lock Quarry Metro Park
Free
–
Back Yards Gone Wild: DIY Woodpecker FeedersJoin a naturalist to learn about the fascinating lives of woodpeckers and how to attract them to your yard, then create a simple bird feeder to take home.
Liberty Park
Free
|
3 events,
–
Kinderealm: Who’s Ready for a Nap?Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions will explore how some wildlife friends are preparing for long naps to survive the winter. Program includes a walk and craft. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. Registration is required and begins on 10/31.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
Free
|
2 events,
–
Owl ProwlJoin a naturalist and explore the nocturnal forest in search of owls. We’ll hike the .6 mile Cherry Lane Trail, learn some common owl calls, where to spot them and how they are the perfect predator. Patience and silence are essential. No dogs, please.
F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
Free
|
2 events,
–
Autumn Nature TalesYoung children and their adult companions can 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.
Liberty Park
Free
|
3 events,
–
Nature’s Leftovers HikeHike the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail to observe the “leftover” food that will have to sustain wildlife from late fall through winter.
Wood Hollow Metro Park
Free
–
Birdfeeder BuffetAs winter approaches, let’s welcome our winter migrants with information about bird feeders you can buy or make yourself this season to keep visitors and year-round residents well fed.
Furnace Run Metro Park
Free
|
||
4 events,
–
Eye Spy & CampfirePick up a scavenger hunt list and hit the 1.1-mile Ledges Trail in search of animals, plants and more. Afterward, stop by the campfire ring to enjoy s’mores and return your completed list for a prize!
Liberty Park
Free
–
–
Tree and Shrub IDHow do you properly identify a dogwood tree? By its “bark” of course! Join a naturalist to hike the trail, identifying many trees and shrubs along the way. By the end of the program, you will be able to easily recognize spicebush, tree of heaven, beech, maple, oak and even dogwood trees.
Liberty Park
Free
|
0 events,
|
0 events,
|
1 event,
–
Beaver Moon HikeJoin a naturalist for a leisurely stroll on the towpath trail to explore how beavers shaped the landscape and history of the western reserve.
Towpath Trail
Free
|
0 events,
|
0 events,
|
1 event,
–
Last Chance Spree HikeJoin a naturalist to explore nature and history with one last Fall Hiking Spree hike along the 1.1-mile Ledges Trail.
Liberty Park
Free
|
Enjoy some exercise and fresh air while following a self-guided story trail based on the book “Remember.” Look for it along the 1.3-mile Rock Creek Trail through October 27. Good for spree credit.
Hike the 1.1-mile Ledges Trail through November 3 to discover how the First People of this area utilized its unique flora, fauna and geology through informational signs posted along the path. Good for spree credit.
Come learn all about our native, flying mammals: the bat! Hike along the 1.1-mile Redwing Trail through October 30 to learn all about our flying friends before they begin to hibernate for the season.
Anyone home? Join a naturalist to discover the complex and secretive life that exists under logs and leaf litter. We will be mindfully stepping off trail and looking under logs and leaves to find forest friends.
Join a naturalist as we learn about the strange yet interesting creatures that live in streams and wetlands. We will discuss several species of crayfish, fresh water mussels and the Hellbender, the largest species of salamander in Ohio. Learn why they are critical to local waterways and how they act as indicator species when something is going wrong.
Hike the 1.1-mile Ledges Trail through November 3 to discover how the First People of this area utilized its unique flora, fauna and geology through informational signs posted along the path. Good for spree credit.
Come learn all about our native, flying mammals: the bat! Hike along the 1.1-mile Redwing Trail through October 30 to learn all about our flying friends before they begin to hibernate for the season.
Hike the 1.1-mile Ledges Trail through November 3 to discover how the First People of this area utilized its unique flora, fauna and geology through informational signs posted along the path. Good for spree credit.
Come learn all about our native, flying mammals: the bat! Hike along the 1.1-mile Redwing Trail through October 30 to learn all about our flying friends before they begin to hibernate for the season.
Hike the 1.1-mile Ledges Trail through November 3 to discover how the First People of this area utilized its unique flora, fauna and geology through informational signs posted along the path. Good for spree credit.
Come learn all about our native, flying mammals: the bat! Hike along the 1.1-mile Redwing Trail through October 30 to learn all about our flying friends before they begin to hibernate for the season.
Don’t get spooked — insects can be cute, too! Drop by to discover some of this season’s creepy crawly creatures and create your own to take home, while supplies last.
Hike the 1.1-mile Ledges Trail through November 3 to discover how the First People of this area utilized its unique flora, fauna and geology through informational signs posted along the path. Good for spree credit.
Hike the 1.1-mile Ledges Trail through November 3 to discover how the First People of this area utilized its unique flora, fauna and geology through informational signs posted along the path. Good for spree credit.
Young children and their adult companions can 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.
Hike the 1.1-mile Ledges Trail through November 3 to discover how the First People of this area utilized its unique flora, fauna and geology through informational signs posted along the path. Good for spree credit.
Get your hiking boots and binoculars to earn spree credit on this mid-morning bird walk on the 1.6-mile Willow Trail.
Hike the 1.1-mile Ledges Trail through November 3 to discover how the First People of this area utilized its unique flora, fauna and geology through informational signs posted along the path. Good for spree credit.
As late fall gives way to winter, enjoy a self-guided hike based on the book, “Leaf Man” along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through November 24.
As late fall gives way to winter, enjoy a self-guided hike based on the book, “Leaf Man” along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through November 24.
As late fall gives way to winter, enjoy a self-guided hike based on the book, “Leaf Man” along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through November 24.
As late fall gives way to winter, enjoy a self-guided hike based on the book, “Leaf Man” along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through November 24.
Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions will explore how some wildlife friends are preparing for long naps to survive the winter. Program includes a walk and craft. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. Registration is required and begins on 10/31.
As late fall gives way to winter, enjoy a self-guided hike based on the book, “Leaf Man” along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through November 24.
As late fall gives way to winter, enjoy a self-guided hike based on the book, “Leaf Man” along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through November 24.
Join a naturalist for all things leaves, including a read aloud of Lois Ehlert’s “Leaf Man”. Following the story, we will take a short hike and build our own “leaf men” to take home. Most suitable for ages 3-6 and children must be accompanied by an adult.
Appreciate the outdoors at a leisurely pace with a stroll along the 0.6-mile Bluebird Trail. Enjoy a beverage and nature conversation afterward.
So you think you know nature? Grab your crew of 2-6 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 all night, and prizes will be waiting for those…
As late fall gives way to winter, enjoy a self-guided hike based on the book, “Leaf Man” along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through November 24.
Take a step back in time and learn about the geology of the Twinsburg Ledges. Learn how they were created, what they are made of, and their importance to the ecosystem. We will be hiking about a mile on uneven and rocky terrain and going into the conservation area. Boots are recommended.
As late fall gives way to winter, enjoy a self-guided hike based on the book, “Leaf Man” along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through November 24.
As late fall gives way to winter, enjoy a self-guided hike based on the book, “Leaf Man” along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through November 24.
As late fall gives way to winter, enjoy a self-guided hike based on the book, “Leaf Man” along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through November 24.
Hike the 1.4-mile Seneca Trail through November 20th to explore the secrets of identifying wildlife using only what they leave behind.
Join a naturalist for a quiet evening hike along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail in search of owls. Learn some common owl calls, where to spot them and how they survive during the colder months. Bring a small flashlight if you wish.
As late fall gives way to winter, enjoy a self-guided hike based on the book, “Leaf Man” along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through November 24.
Hike the 1.4-mile Seneca Trail through November 20th to explore the secrets of identifying wildlife using only what they leave behind.
Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions will explore how some wildlife friends are preparing for long naps to survive the winter. Program includes a walk and craft. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. Registration is required and begins on 10/31.
As late fall gives way to winter, enjoy a self-guided hike based on the book, “Leaf Man” along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through November 24.
Hike the 1.4-mile Seneca Trail through November 20th to explore the secrets of identifying wildlife using only what they leave behind.
Join a writer-turned-naturalist for a talk on autumn’s themes in literature and the real-life reasons behind them.
As late fall gives way to winter, enjoy a self-guided hike based on the book, “Leaf Man” along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through November 24.
Hike the 1.4-mile Seneca Trail through November 20th to explore the secrets of identifying wildlife using only what they leave behind.
When the full moon’s aglow, we start the show! Come join a naturalist to hike at night, and see Cascade Valley in a whole new light.
As late fall gives way to winter, enjoy a self-guided hike based on the book, “Leaf Man” along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through November 24.
Hike the 1.4-mile Seneca Trail through November 20th to explore the secrets of identifying wildlife using only what they leave behind.
Rise and shine! Get an early start to the day by hiking the 1.1 mile Missing Link Trail with a naturalist. Along the way, we’ll explore who else might be up early. Dress for the weather and if you have binoculars, bring them along. Several extra pairs will be available for use.
Learn about the importance of the Towpath Trail’s southern terminus for Indigenous Peoples along this 3.4-mile leg of the Towpath Trail (from Wilbeth to Manchester Road and back).
Families can drop in to learn about feathered friends that will stick around all winter, create a treat for the birds in their backyard and try their luck at hand-feeding chickadees.
As late fall gives way to winter, enjoy a self-guided hike based on the book, “Leaf Man” along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through November 24.
Hike the 1.4-mile Seneca Trail through November 20th to explore the secrets of identifying wildlife using only what they leave behind.
Hike the late fall prairie and learn to identify native wildflower seedheads. Bring your own envelopes or small paper bags to take some seeds home.
Deep Lock is an amazing area with a deep connection to the history of Akron. Join a naturalist to learn all about the quarry area as we hike the 1.4 mile quarry trail. We will be outdoors so dress for the weather.
Join a naturalist to learn about the fascinating lives of woodpeckers and how to attract them to your yard, then create a simple bird feeder to take home.
As late fall gives way to winter, enjoy a self-guided hike based on the book, “Leaf Man” along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through November 24.
Hike the 1.4-mile Seneca Trail through November 20th to explore the secrets of identifying wildlife using only what they leave behind.
As late fall gives way to winter, enjoy a self-guided hike based on the book, “Leaf Man” along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through November 24.
Hike the 1.4-mile Seneca Trail through November 20th to explore the secrets of identifying wildlife using only what they leave behind.
As late fall gives way to winter, enjoy a self-guided hike based on the book, “Leaf Man” along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through November 24.
Hike the 1.4-mile Seneca Trail through November 20th to explore the secrets of identifying wildlife using only what they leave behind.
Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions will explore how some wildlife friends are preparing for long naps to survive the winter. Program includes a walk and craft. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. Registration is required and begins on 10/31.
As late fall gives way to winter, enjoy a self-guided hike based on the book, “Leaf Man” along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through November 24.
Join a naturalist and explore the nocturnal forest in search of owls. We’ll hike the .6 mile Cherry Lane Trail, learn some common owl calls, where to spot them and how they are the perfect predator. Patience and silence are essential. No dogs, please.
As late fall gives way to winter, enjoy a self-guided hike based on the book, “Leaf Man” along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through November 24.
Young children and their adult companions can 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.
As late fall gives way to winter, enjoy a self-guided hike based on the book, “Leaf Man” along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through November 24.
Hike the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail to observe the “leftover” food that will have to sustain wildlife from late fall through winter.
As winter approaches, let’s welcome our winter migrants with information about bird feeders you can buy or make yourself this season to keep visitors and year-round residents well fed.
As late fall gives way to winter, enjoy a self-guided hike based on the book, “Leaf Man” along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through November 24.
Pick up a scavenger hunt list and hit the 1.1-mile Ledges Trail in search of animals, plants and more. Afterward, stop by the campfire ring to enjoy s’mores and return your completed list for a prize!
Ever wonder where all the reptiles and amphibians go once winter hits? Join a naturalist to learn how our local reptiles and amphibians sleep all winter through brumation!
How do you properly identify a dogwood tree? By its “bark” of course! Join a naturalist to hike the trail, identifying many trees and shrubs along the way. By the end of the program, you will be able to easily recognize spicebush, tree of heaven, beech, maple, oak and even dogwood trees.
Join a naturalist for a leisurely stroll on the towpath trail to explore how beavers shaped the landscape and history of the western reserve.
Join a naturalist to explore nature and history with one last Fall Hiking Spree hike along the 1.1-mile Ledges Trail.