Senior Cycling
2026-10-29 10:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | FT/Erie Road Trailhead, 90 East Ave., Tallmadge, OH, 44278, United States
Join like-minded senior Summit Metro Parks supporters as we ride and explore various trails. We will gather to socialize and determine the route, distance and pace before rolling out. Expect to ride at least 10 to 12 miles, at a casual (10-12 mph) pace. Please bring your own helmet and bicycle. Helmets are required to participate. Please arrive 15 minutes early to check in. Meet at the Freedom Trail/Erie Lot.

Spooky Species Spotlight
2026-10-31 12:00 - 13:00 | FASN/Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron, OH, 44313, United States
Discover the spooky, weird and gross things nature has to offer in this showcase of all things uncanny.

What the Heck is a Hellbender?
2026-10-31 13:00 - 15:00 | LP/Nature Center, 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg, OH, 44087, United States
A hellbender is the largest amphibian native to Eastern North America. Sometimes called a “snot otter” or “lasagna lizard,” it’s harmless to humans and serves as an important indicator of healthy freshwater ecosystems. Join a naturalist as we learn about this interesting creature.

Truck-or-Treat
2026-10-31 17:00 - 19:00 | GYH/Main Entrance, 2077 Newton St., Akron, OH, 44305, United States
At this FREE event, presented by Wayside, visitors of all ages can explore the trucks and vehicles that help keep our parks beautiful while collecting treats from SMP staff. Costumes are encouraged for all ages!

Hiking Spree Shield Assistance
2026-11-01 13:00 - 15:00 | SLNC, 411 Ira Ave., Akron, OH, 44301, United States
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.

Hiking Spree Shield Assistance
2026-11-07 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-11-14 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-11-21 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-11-29 13:00 - 15:00 | FASN/Nature Realm, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron, OH, 44313, United States

Spree With Me: Last Chance Hike
2026-11-29 11:00 - 12:30 | TT/Wilbeth Road Trailhead, 392 W. Wilbeth Rd., Akron, OH, 44301, United States
It’s your a last chance for a guided Fall Hiking Spree hike. Explore the canal to see nature at work in the built environment and turn in your spree form along the way at the nature center.

Holiday Wreath Making
2026-12-05 10:00 - 12:00 | LP/Nature Center, 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg, OH, 44087, United States
Make a beautiful and festive holiday wreath out of mostly native plant materials. After a short presentation on native evergreen trees, participants will create their own holiday wreath with provided greenery and decor. Space is limited. Cost: $35/per person. Registration is required and begins 11/1.

Bird Nerds: Pileated Woodpecker
2026-12-05 12:00 - 13:30 | FASN/Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron, OH, 44313, United States
Bird enthusiasts of all kinds are welcome to join us for a deep dive into one of Ohio’s most recognizable species each month. You see them. You love them. But how well do you really know them? After our indoor presentation, those interested can join for a guided birding walk.

Drop-In: Butter Making
2026-12-05 13:30 - 15:30 | SLNC, 411 Ira Ave., Akron, OH, 44301, United States
Still a household staple, butter has played a crucial role in preserving dairy throughout human history. Carry on the tradition and make your own tasty butter, while supplies last.

Lichen Look About
2026-12-06 10:00 - 11:30 | LP/Nature Center, 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg, OH, 44087, United States
More than just trees stay evergreen! Join a naturalist of a guided exploration of lichens and mosses growing along Metro Parks trails. Magnifying tools will be provided.

Evergreen Arrangements
2026-12-06 12:00 - 15:00 | LP/Nature Center, 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg, OH, 44087, United States
Cozy up inside with a crackling fire and hot cocoa as you create a beautiful, seasonal centerpiece or door hanger using pine boughs and other natural elements. All materials including greenery, ribbon, containers and more are provided while supplies last, but feel free to bring additional clippings, decor or a small vase if you wish.

Hiking Spree Shield Assistance
2026-12-06 13:00 - 15:00 | GYH/Goodyear Heights Lodge, 2077 Newton St., Akron, OH, 44305, United States

Nature Drawing for Adults
2026-12-08 13:00 - 15:00 | LP/Nature Center, 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg, OH, 44087, United States
Join our interpretive artist for an entertaining lesson in nature drawing. Bring a sketchbook, pencil and a sense of humor. Beginners are welcome. Registration is required and begins 11/1.

Forest Bathing for Beginners
2026-12-09 10:00 - 12:00 | SR/Shady Hollow Lodge, 1750 Sand Run Pkwy., Akron, OH, 44313, United States
Join us for a session of Shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing. Learn the history and benefits of this restorative practice to improve mental and physical well-being. Bring water, snacks a yoga mat or towel and an open mind. We will be spending at least an hour outdoors no matter the weather, so please dress appropriately. This program is geared for adults. This is not a hike. Registration is required and begins 11/1.

Kinderealm: Happy Hibernators
2026-12-09 10:30 - 11:30 | FASN/Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron, OH, 44313, United States
Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will discover who’s snoozing this snowy season! Explore hibernation through a story, craft and short hike. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. Registration is required and begins 11/01.

Book Club: Never Home Alone
2026-12-09 18:00 - 19:30 | SLNC, 411 Ira Ave., Akron, OH, 44301, United States
Bring your mugs and open minds to discuss Rob Dunn’s fascinating book, “Never Home Alone,” about the thousands of tiny lives that share our everyday spaces. Drinks will be provided; all readers are welcome.

Nature Collage
2026-12-10 10:00 - 12:00 | FASN/Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron, OH, 44313, United States
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. Registration is required and begins on 11/1.

Virtual Nature Collage
2026-12-10 13:00 - 14:00 | Virtual
Let’s make a beautiful nature-inspired collage using recycled paper! Join our interpretive artist for this easy, fun lesson. A list of materials and a Zoom invite will be emailed after registering. Registration is required and begins 11/1.

Homegrown Habitat: Bring on the Birds
2026-12-10 18:30 - 20:00 | FASN/Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron, OH, 44313, United States
Calling all people with yards or green spaces big and small: Join us for this monthly series and learn how to rewild your home landscape. This month we’ll discuss plantings and practices to create a bird-friendly space at home. From berries to window decals and keeping cats indoors, you’ll learn simple but effective ways to properly welcome birds this winter.

Nature Board Game Night
2026-12-11 17:00 - 19:30 | SLNC, 411 Ira Ave., Akron, OH, 44301, United States
Too cold to hike across the United States? Join a naturalist for a tabletop tour of our national parks with the game “PARKS,” or try a selection of other nature-themed board games.

Ugly Sweater Night Hike
2026-12-11 19:00 - 21:00 | FASN/Campfire Area, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron, OH, 44313, United States
Bust out your ugliest holiday sweater and come destress on a lively hike in the woods! We’ll hike about half a mile, then head back to the campfire for s’mores, hot chocolate and games. Ugly sweaters not mandatory, but highly encouraged!

Young Birders: Wake Up with Waterfowl
2026-12-12 10:00 - 11:00 | SLNC, 411 Ira Ave., Akron, OH, 44301, United States
Kids ages 8 and up are invited to wake up with waterfowl! Discover what it means to dabble and dive through a short presentation and bird walk. An adult companion is required to remain for the entirety of the program.

Intro to Archery
2026-12-12 12:00 - 13:30 | F/Coventry Oaks Lodge, 40 Axline Ave., Akron, OH, 44319, United States
Participants 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. Registration is required and begins on 11/1.

Exploring Evergreens
2026-12-12 13:30 - 15:00 | GYH/Main Entrance, 2077 Newton St., Akron, OH, 44305, United States
More than just holiday decorations, evergreen trees come in many forms, each with their own natural history and ecosystem roles. Hike with a naturalist to learn more about these incredible trees.

Archery Games
2026-12-12 14:30 - 16:00 | F/Coventry Oaks Lodge, 40 Axline Ave., Akron, OH, 44319, United States
Practiced participants will review international-style target archery principles and test their marksmanship through a variety of fun and challenging shooting games. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be 9 years old and 50 inches or taller. Previous archery experienced preferred. Cost: $10/person. Registration is required and begins on 11/1.

Christmas Bird Count Walk
2026-12-13 08:30 - 11:00 | FASN/Nature Realm, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron, OH, 44313, United States
It’s bird counting time! Discover the history of the Christmas Bird Count while gathering community science data as we count birds on about 3 miles of trails. Please bring binoculars and dress for the weather.
