There’s something for everyone in Summit Metro Parks, including the following programs and events this August. 

 

For virtual programs, visit www.zoom.com and enter the Zoom ID to participate. 

 

 

Saturday, August 1, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Hampton Hills Metro Park/Mountain Bike Area

2092 Theiss Rd., Akron

Are you curious about mountain biking but nervous to try the trails by yourself? Then this program is for you! Join us in collaboration with South Street Ministries to review mountain biking safety and trail tips, followed by a ride on the beginner and moderate mountain biking loops. Please bring your own helmet and bicycle. Helmets are required to participate. Advance registration is required and begins 7/1. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Saturday, August 1, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Munroe Falls Metro Park/Lake Area

521 S. River Rd., Munroe Falls

Join us for Touch-a-Truck, presented by Wayside Furniture! People of all ages can sit in and explore more than a dozen Summit Metro Parks and local emergency response vehicles. A special autism- and sensory-friendly hour, free of horns, music and flashing lights, will be held 10 to 11 a.m. (view the Touch-a-Truck Social Story). The fun will continue from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Leashed dogs are welcome. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a sandbox play area with toy trucks and vehicles, a naturalist activity, a playground on park premises and shopping Maple Leaf Gifts (credit cards only). Please note: The presence of emergency response vehicles, including Akron Children’s Hospital’s Air Bear, is subject to availability. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Beginning Sunday, August 2

Liberty Park/Pond Brook Conservation Area

3973 E. Aurora Rd., Twinsburg

Follow signs along the 1.6-mile Buttonbush Trail through August 23 to explore the world of damselflies and dragonflies and observe these amazing insects as they cruise nearby to catch mosquitos. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Beginning Sunday, August 2

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Enjoy some exercise and fun exploration with a self-guided story trail based on the book "In the Tall, Tall Grass." This experience is available along the 0.6-mile Bluebird Trail through August 23. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Sunday, August 2, 7:30 - 10 a.m.

Munroe Falls Metro Park/Lake Area

521 S. River Rd., Munroe Falls

Before the heat of the day settles in, hit the trail with a naturalist for an extended, evenly paced hike through forest, prairie and lakeside habitat. Expect to hike over 5 miles along all of the trails the park has to offer. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Monday, August 3, 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Furnace Run Metro Park/Brushwood Area

4955 Townsend Rd., Richfield

Kids and their adult companions can join a naturalist to explore the stream in search of fossils and learn about the ancient creatures that once called this park home. Follow posted signs to meet in the picnic area for an introduction and to make a fossil of your own to take home. Dress to get wet; closed-toe shoes required. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Tuesday, August 4, 7 - 8 p.m.

Munroe Falls Metro Park/Lake Area

521 S. River Rd., Munroe Falls

Enjoy a performance by the Metro Parks Ensemble, presented by Wayside Furniture! Please bring your own chairs and blankets, and a picnic if you prefer. Cycling Without Age trishaw bikes will be available from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. to carry riders with limited mobility on a bench seat for an unobstructed view of nature and the feeling of riding a bike outdoors. Cycling Without Age is available with the support of The Andrea Rose Teodosio Memorial Foundation. The concert will be canceled if it rains; call 330-865-8060 if wet weather is in the forecast. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Wednesday, August 5, 9 - 11 a.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Nature Realm

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Bring your drawing pad and pencils for an outdoor lesson in drawing. Beginners are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the program. Portable chairs and drinking water are recommended. In the event of inclement weather, the program will be canceled. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Wednesday, August 5, 6:30 - 8 p.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Seneca Deck

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Join Ohio Certified Volunteer Naturalist Denny Reiser and an SMP naturalist to explore the colorful world of summer insects. We'll enjoy a seated presentation on Seneca Deck followed by a stroll through the Rock & Herb Garden in search of some summer favorites! For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Thursday, August 6, 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.

Summit Lake Nature Center

411 Ira Ave., Akron

Join us in collaboration with Let’s Grow Akron for hands-on gardening activities for children of all ages. Seed, sow, water, harvest . . . and enjoy! We'll have a game or craft, garden activity and a snack themed around what is growing and ready to harvest in the garden. In the event of inclement weather, the program will be held indoors. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Thursday, August 6, 6 - 7:30 p.m.

Let’s Grow Akron Headquarters

467 Harvey Ave., Akron

Join us in collaboration with Let’s Grow Akron and OSU Extension to discuss effective methods for watering in the vegetable garden. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Thursday, August 6, 8:30 - 10 p.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Bats are some of the most fascinating and beneficial creatures of the night! Join us to learn about these fantastic flying insect controllers up close as park biologists attempt to catch them with nets for observation and data collection. The program will take place in the outdoor shelter. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Friday, August 7, 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Cascade Valley Metro Park/Himelright Lodge

1212 Cuyahoga St., Akron

Summit County Probate Court and Summit Metro Parks are partnering to offer a free outdoor wedding ceremony and vow renewal for Summit County residents. The event will take place outside Himelright Lodge, featuring beautiful park views. Learn more and complete the required registration at bit.ly/promisesinthepark2026. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Friday, August 7, 1 - 3 p.m.

Summit Lake Nature Center

411 Ira Ave., Akron

Come try your hand at fishing. We'll provide the rods and bait, so all you have to do is show up! Anyone over the age of 16 will need a valid Ohio fishing license. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Friday, August 7, 8 - 9:30 p.m.

Cascade Valley Metro Park/Oxbow Area

1135 Cuyahoga St., Akron

Ever wonder what happens in the woods at night when the daytime critters go to sleep? Join a naturalist on the 1.2-mile Oxbow Trail to see what our local wildlife is up to when the sun goes down! For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Saturday, August 8, 10 - 11:30 a.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Visitors Center

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

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. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Sunday, August 9, 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Wood Hollow Metro Park/Downy Loop Trail

2121 Barlow Rd., Hudson

Do you remember exploring as a kid, searching for bugs with a net and jar in hand? Join a naturalist for a hands-on dive into the world of insects to rekindle that sense of wonder! We’ll begin in the shelter for an introduction and microscope viewing, then strike out into the field and pond edge to search for insects for observation. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Sunday, August 9, 1 - 2 p.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Enjoy your hike along the 1.2-mile Seneca Trail as we talk about the history of F.A Seiberling Nature Realm and how it became the amazing park we have today! For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Tuesday, August 11, 7 - 8 p.m.

Silver Creek Metro Park/Sherman Shelter

5000 S. Hametown Rd., Norton

Enjoy a performance by the Metro Parks Ensemble, presented by Wayside Furniture! Please bring your own chairs and blankets, and a picnic if you prefer. The concert will be canceled if it rains; call 330-865-8060 if wet weather is in the forecast. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Wednesday, August 12, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Visitors Center

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Pee-yew! Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions can come learn all about the striped, smelly skunk though 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 7/1. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Wednesday, August 12, 6 - 7:30 p.m.

New visitors and regular adult readers are invited to share in a lively virtual discussion about "Mozart's Starling," by Lyanda Lynn Haupt. Meeting ID: 884 8617 7571. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Thursday, August 13, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Towpath Trail/Mustill Store Trailhead

57 W. North St., Akron

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. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Thursday, August 13, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Bike & Hike Trail/SR 91 Lot

130 N. Main St., Munroe Falls

Join a park district staff as we explore life in the river. Discover how these surveys help measure the river’s health and get an up-close look at the fish we catch before they’re safely released back into the water. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Thursday, August 13, 4 - 5:30 p.m. & 6:30 - 8 p.m.

Liberty Park/Tinkers Creek Area

10303 Aurora Hudson Rd., Streetsboro

Participants will learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at an outdoor 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 7/1. All sales are final. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Thursday, August 13, 6:30 - 8 p.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Nature Realm

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Calling all people with yards or green spaces big and small: Join us and learn how to rewild your home landscape. This month, we'll discover the hidden world of caterpillars. We'll dive deeper into understanding how to best support the larval stage of butterflies and moths. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Friday, August 14, 9 - 11 p.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Join a naturalist as we delve into the world of moths. These amazing insects come in many different shapes, colors and sizes. From the pink and yellow rosy maple moth to the camouflaged pandorus sphinx moth, come and see what flies in. Bring bug spray and your camera. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Saturday, August 15, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Towpath Trail/Mustill Store Trailhead

57 W. North St., Akron

Join us in collaboration with South Street Ministries as we embark on an exploration of the historical, cultural and economic significance of Akron's West Hill and Highland Square neighborhoods. Please bring your own bicycle and helmet. Helmets are required to participate. Expect to ride approximately 10 miles, at a casual (10-12 mph) pace on trails and roadways. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Sunday, August 16, 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Firestone Metro Park/Coventry Oaks Lodge

40 Axline Ave., Akron

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. Registration is required and begins on 7/1. All sales are final. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Sunday, August 16, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Summit Lake Nature Center

411 Ira Ave., Akron

Stop by to learn basic paddleboard techniques and take a short self-guided paddle on the lake under the guidance of certified instructors. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. Wear clothes that can get wet and bring a water bottle. All equipment, including life jackets, will be provided. Space is limited; paddleboards are available on a first come, first served basis. Location subject to change based on water conditions. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Sunday, August 16, 12:30 - 2 p.m.

Firestone Metro Park/Coventry Oaks Lodge

40 Axline Ave., Akron

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 experience preferred. Cost: $10/person. Registration is required and begins on 7/1. All sales are final. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Sunday, August 16, 1 - 2:30 p.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Join a naturalist for this monthly series to explore how emerging energy technologies and evolving policies are shaping our daily lives and paving the way toward a more sustainable future. This month, we’ll highlight sustainability efforts led by individuals, industries and communities — locally, statewide and around the world. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Tuesday, August 18, 7 - 8 p.m.

Furnace Run Metro Park/Brushwood Area

4955 Townsend Rd., Richfield

Enjoy a performance by the Metro Parks Ensemble! Please bring your own chairs and blankets, and a picnic if you prefer. In the event of inclement weather, the concert will be moved inside Brushwood Lodge. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Beginning Wednesday, August 19

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Fall flyers are gearing up to take off for migration! Through August 28, hike the 0.9-mile Fernwood Trail and discover which birds we'll say goodbye to this autumn. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Wednesday, August 19, 9 - 11 a.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Bring your drawing pad and pencils for an outdoor lesson in drawing. Beginners are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the program. Portable chairs and drinking water are recommended. In the event of inclement weather, the program will be canceled. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Wednesday, August 19, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Pee-yew! Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions can learn all about the striped, smelly skunk though 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 7/1. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Friday, August 21, 10:30 - 11 a.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

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. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Friday, August 21, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Summit Lake Nature Center

411 Ira Ave., Akron

Learn how to kayak and take a guided tour around the lake with a certified instructor to view a beautiful sunset. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. Wear clothes that can get wet and bring a water bottle. All equipment, including life jackets, will be provided. Location subject to change based on water conditions. Cost: $15/person. Registration is required and begins 7/1. All sales are final. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Friday, August 21, 7 - 8:30 p.m.

Sand Run Metro Park/Old Portage Area

1300 Sand Run Pkwy. Akron

Join a naturalist for a 1.5-mile trivia-filled hike! We'll test you on all sorts of summer facts from wildlife to the Olympics! So, bring your competitive spirit. But as long as we're outside, isn't everybody a winner? For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Saturday, August 22, 10 - 11 a.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Visitors Center

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Would you bee-lieve how amazing bees can be? Explore the world of bees and discover our most common species in this program for bee beginners. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Saturday, August 22, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Liberty Park/Pond Brook Conservation Area

3973 E. Aurora Rd., Twinsburg

Appreciate the outdoors at a leisurely pace on a stroll along the 1.6-mile Buttonbush Trail to observe end of summer nature. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Sunday, August 23, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Goodyear Heights Metro Park/Main Entrance

2077 Newton St., Akron

Get a head start on the 2026 Fall Hiking Spree! Join guided hikes of the 1.8-mile Parcours Trail at 9:30 a.m. or 12:30 p.m. or hike it anytime on your own this day to earn spree credit. Staff will be available to provide hiking forms and answer questions. Fall Hiking Spree t-shirts will be available for sale, along with other items from Maple Leaf Gifts (credit cards only). To receive your hiking staff and/or shield, all other hikes must be completed between September 1 and November 30. Leashed dogs are welcome. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Sunday, August 23, 12 - 2 p.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Seneca Deck

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Prepare for the fall camping season with an informational session on the basics of tent camping. We’ll learn about preparedness, gear and campfire cooking. Registration is required and begins 7/1. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Wednesday, August 26, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Summit Lake Nature Center

411 Ira Ave., Akron

Pee-yew! Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions can come learn all about the striped, smelly skunk though 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 7/1. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Wednesday, August 26, 4 - 6 p.m.

Nimisila Reservoir Metro Park/Lot C6

6194 Christman Rd., Green

Learn how to paddleboard and take a guided tour around the lake with a certified instructor. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. All equipment, including life jackets, will be provided. Location subject to change based on water conditions. Cost: $15/person. Registration is required and begins 7/1. All sales are final. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Wednesday, August 26, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Nimisila Reservoir Metro Park/Lot C6

6194 Christman Rd., Green

Learn how to paddleboard and take a guided tour around the lake with a certified instructor to view a beautiful sunset. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. All equipment, including life jackets, will be provided. Location subject to change based on water conditions. Cost: $15/person. Registration is required and begins 7/1. All sales are final. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Wednesday, August 26, 7 - 8:30 p.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Visitors Center

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Join Wildlife Communications Specialist Monika Bowman Bell of the Ohio Division of Wildlife as she discusses the benefits of attracting wildlife into your outdoor space and tactics to deter nuisance species. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Thursday, August 27, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Towpath Trail/Big Bend Trailhead

1337 Merriman Rd., Akron

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. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Friday, August 28, 5 - 6:30 p.m.

Furnace Run Metro Park/Brushwood Area

4955 Townsend Rd., Richfield

Welcome all ages to fishing! Youth ages 15 and younger can learn the basics of fishing, then drop a line and see what they can catch! Some rods and reels will be available for use. Bait is provided. Adults must supervise their children and must have a current Ohio fishing license if they want to fish. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Saturday, August 29, 6 - 7:30 p.m.

Springfield Bog Metro Park/Prairie Trail

1400 Portage Line Rd., Springfield Twp.

Often overlooked and under loved, grasses play an essential role in our communities. Join for a hike along the 1.6-mile Prairie Trail to explore the fantastic features that make grasses so fascinating. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Saturday, August 29, 7 - 8 p.m.

Cascade Valley Metro Park/Valley View Area

1134 Cuyahoga St., Akron

Kids ages 8 and up are invited to discover the novelties of nightjars through a short presentation and bird walk. An adult companion is required to remain for the entirety of the program. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Sunday, August 30, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Munroe Falls Metro Park/Lake Area

521 S. River Rd., Munroe Falls

Stop by to learn basic paddling techniques and take a short self-guided paddle on the lake under the guidance of certified instructors. Minimum age to kayak is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Canoes available for families with younger children. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. Wear clothes that can get wet and bring a water bottle. All equipment, including life jackets, will be provided. Space is limited; kayaks and canoes are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Location subject to change based on water conditions. For more information, call 330-865-8065.