Submitted

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

 

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

 

 

Thursday, October 1, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Bike & Hike Trail/SR 303 Lot

64 W. Streetsboro Rd., Boston Heights

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. Please arrive 15 minutes early to check in. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Thursday, October 1, 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! Each month we'll have a game or craft, garden activity and 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, October 1, 4 - 5:30 p.m.

Firestone Metro Park/Coventry Oaks Lodge

40 Axline Ave., Akron

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 9/1. All sales are final. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Thursday, October 1, 6 - 7:30 p.m.

Summit Lake Nature Center

411 Ira Ave., Akron

Join us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron and OSU Extension for tips on planting garlic this fall for a tasty garden harvest next season. In the event of inclement weather, the program will be held indoors. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Thursday, October 1, 6:30 - 8 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 experienced preferred. Cost: $10/person. Registration is required and begins 9/1. All sales are final. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Friday, October 2, 10:30 - 11 a.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Young children and their adult companions can enjoy an interactive nature-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, October 2, 6 - 7:30 p.m.

Wood Hollow Metro Park/Downy Loop Trail

2121 Barlow Rd., Hudson

Join a naturalist to earn spree credit and explore the many exciting pieces of nature to be found on the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail. Please bring a flashlight. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Saturday, October 3, 2 - 7 p.m.

Munroe Falls Metro Park/Lake Area

521 S. River Rd., Munroe Falls

Fall into autumn fun at this FREE family event! Enjoy the change of season and the feeling of fall with free cider, apples and popcorn while enjoying lumberjack shows, naturalist activities, hayrides, bonfires, music, food and more. Leashed dogs are welcome. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Beginning Sunday, October 4

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Follow the self-guided trail signs along the 2.1-mile Black Bear Trail to enjoy and learn about autumn leaf colors. This program is available through October 25. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Beginning Sunday, October 4

Wood Hollow Metro Park/Downy Loop Trail

2121 Barlow Rd., Hudson

Enjoy beautiful fall colors as you follow a fun story trail based on the book, "Leaf Man." Available along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail through October 25. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Sunday, October 4, 8 - 10:30 a.m.

Bike & Hike Trail/SR 91 Lot

130 N. Main St., Munroe Falls

Join a naturalist for a fall bird walk along the banks of the Cuyahoga River as we hope to catch glimpses of resident and migratory birds. Come prepared to walk about three miles on a paved trail with a bird guide and binoculars. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Sunday, October 4, 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Towpath Trail/Big Bend Trailhead

1337 Merriman Rd., Akron

Join us for a walk from Big Bend to the northernmost point of the Portage Path. You’ll learn about the history of this vital link between North American waterways and about the statue of the portaging Indigenous person at the northern end of the portage. Artist Peter Jones (Seneca/Onondaga) created this statue and its twin to stand at both the northern and southern termini of the Portage Path.This program is presented in coordination with the Portage Path Collaborative as part of a series of events in honor of North American First People’s Day. More information about events in the Akron area honoring North American First People’s Day can be found at https://walkportagepath.com. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Sunday, October 4, 1 - 3 p.m.

Furnace Run Metro Park/Brushwood Area

4955 Townsend Rd., Richfield

Join a naturalist as we explore the hidden world of mushrooms, highlighting their ecological importance, medicinal potential and vast underground networks. Learn simple identification techniques and of some species commonly seen in our parks. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Sunday, October 4, 2 - 3:30 p.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Bring your creativity and build a scarecrow to take home! An armature, bag for the head, markers, twine and straw will be provided. The clothes and imagination are up to you! T-shaped frames measure approximately 72 inches tall and 36 inches wide. Cost: $10/scarecrow. Registration is required and begins 9/1. All sales are final. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Wednesday, October 7, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Visitors Center

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

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 9/1. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Wednesday, October 7, 1 - 2 p.m.

Zoom

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. Registration is required and begins 9/1. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Thursday, October 8, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Summit Lake Nature Center

411 Ira Ave., Akron

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 9/1. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Thursday, October 8, 6:30 - 8 p.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Visitors Center

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, discover the buzz behind some of our most charismatic insect ambassadors — bees! We'll highlight specific plants and deliberate practices that support these fuzzy friends. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Saturday, October 10, 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Summit Lake Nature Center

411 Ira Ave., Akron

This biweekly program is designed to engage young children and accompanying adults in the wonderful world of gardening and nature. Each class will be centered on what’s happening in nature and what's growing and ready to harvest! Adults are asked to actively participate with children during the program. Registration is required and begins 9/1. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Saturday, October 10, 12 - 1:30 p.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.

 

 

Saturday, October 10, 1 - 3 p.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Autumn means time for that tedious task of raking, bagging and disposing of leaves — or does it? Learn how leaving the leaves can benefit your yard and the environment, while making your life easier! After the presentation, we’ll take a walk to see why the leaf layer is important to the forest. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Sunday, October 11, 9 - 11 a.m.

Towpath Trail/Clinton Trailhead

2749 North St., Clinton

Join an SMP naturalist and Open Trail Collective as we enjoy fall birds and foliage along the accessible Towpath Trail. Binoculars will be available to borrow on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Sunday, October 11, 12 - 3 p.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Drop in for a scavenger hunt along the first portion of the 2.1-mile Black Bear Trail to search for some spooky and not-so-spooky items. Return your completed list to the front desk inside the nature center for a prize. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Sunday, October 11, 2 - 3 p.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Nature Realm

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Halloween is known for monsters, so let's talk about the behemoths that once roamed Ohio! Come learn about the megafauna that towered over all and how they were replaced by the fauna we have today. We will be hiking the grounds, so dress for the weather! For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Tuesday, October 13, 1 - 3 p.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

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 9/1. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Wednesday, October 14, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Sand Run Metro Park/Shady Hollow Lodge

1750 Sand Run Pkwy. Akron

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 is not a hike. Registration is required and begins 9/1. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Wednesday, October 14, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Visitors Center

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Animal costumes aren’t just for Halloween! Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions are invited to discover the clever disguises animals use year round through stories, crafts and games. Please make other arrangements for younger children who cannot remain in infant seats or strollers. Registration is required and begins 9/1. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Wednesday, October 14, 6 - 7:30 p.m.

Summit Lake Nature Center

411 Ira Ave., Akron

Whether a first-time visitor or a longtime book club member, all adults are invited to share in a lively discussion about the inspiring book, “A Passion for the Land: John F. Seiberling and the Environmental Movement,” by Daniel Nelson. Don’t forget to bring your mug — we’ll supply the beverages. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Thursday, October 15, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Visitors Center

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

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 9/1. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Thursday, October 15, 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Summit Lake Nature Center

411 Ira Ave., Akron

This biweekly program is designed to engage young children and accompanying adults in the wonderful world of gardening and nature. Each class will be centered on what’s happening in nature and what's growing and ready to harvest! Adults are asked to actively participate with children during the program. Registration is required and begins 9/1. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Thursday, October 15, 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Homeschoolers ages 7-12: Join us to investigate how all living things are connected. Activities and outdoor exploration will help us learn how their interactions with each other and their surroundings affect the balance in nature. Registration is required and begins 9/1. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Thursday, October 15, 1 - 2 p.m.

Zoom

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 9/1. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Thursday, October 15, 6 - 7:30 p.m.

Goodyear Heights Metro Park/Goodyear Heights Lodge

2077 Newton St., Akron

Join us in collaboration with Let’s Grow Akron and OSU Extension for to learn how we can enhance our gardens by planting berries. We'll explore the native trees and shrubs that provide delish treats for gardeners, birds and other wildlife. Then enjoy a snack made from locally grown berries. The program will be held in the West Room. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Friday, October 16, 6 - 7:30 p.m.

Firestone Metro Park/Tuscarawas Meadows Area

2620 Harrington Rd., Akron

Join a naturalist along the 1.6-mile Willow Trail to celebrate the vivid hues of fall foliage at the day's end, all while crossing a Fall Hiking Spree Trail off your list. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Saturday, October 17, 10 - 11 a.m.

Wood Hollow Metro Park/Downy Loop Trail

2121 Barlow Rd., Hudson

Kids ages 8 and up are invited to discover the world of woodpeckers 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.

 

 

Saturday, October 17, 12 - 3 p.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Visitors Center

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Kids of all ages and their adults are welcome to drop in to craft their very own pet rock using natural materials. Bring a smile and some creativity, and we'll provide the rest. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Sunday, October 18, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Sand Run Metro Park/Wadsworth Area

1400 Sand Run Pkwy. Akron

Join a naturalist to hike the rugged and hilly 3.2-mile Nuthatch Trail! Learn about the natural history of the park as well as updates to the stream and surrounding environment while completing a Fall Hiking Spree trail. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Sunday, October 18, 1 - 3 p.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

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

 

 

Wednesday, October 21, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Animal costumes aren’t just for Halloween! Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions are invited to discover the clever disguises animals use year-round through stories, crafts and games. Please make other arrangements for younger children who cannot remain in infant seats or strollers. Registration is required and begins 9/1. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Wednesday, October 21, 7 - 8:30 p.m.

Goodyear Heights Metro Park/Goodyear Heights Lodge

2077 Newton St., Akron

Join the Greater Akron Audubon Society and City of Akron Stormwater Superintendent Jessica Glowczewski to learn how the City of Akron manages the Upper Cuyahoga River watershed. We'll discover where Akron’s water comes from, how it’s monitored and the many programs dedicated to keeping your drinking water clean and our watershed healthy. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Thursday, October 22, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Join us to create a seasonal work of art! BYOP (pumpkin, that is) or register to receive two free pumpkins per family. Carving utensils provided. Stay until the end to see all our creations lit up with candles and crown the fan favorites! Event will take place in the outdoor shelter with a fire and marshmallows or be moved indoors in inclement weather. Registration is required and begins on 9/1. To register, call 330-865-8065. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Friday, October 23, 10:30 - 11 a.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Young children and their adult companions can enjoy an interactive nature-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.

 

 

Saturday, October 24, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Furnace Run Metro Park/Brushwood Area

4955 Townsend Rd., Richfield

Learn about and appreciate the colors of autumn at a leisurely pace with a stroll along the 1.3-mile Rock Creek Trail. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Saturday, October 24, 2 - 3:30 p.m.

Firestone Metro Park/Tuscarawas Meadows Area

2620 Harrington Rd., Akron

Explore the mysteries of reptile hibernation, also known as brumation, with a naturalist on the 1.6-mile Willow Trail. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Saturday, October 24, 5 - 7 p.m.

Silver Creek Metro Park/Lake House Area

5000 S. Hametown Rd., Norton

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

 

 

Sunday, October 25, 12 - 3 p.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Campfire Area

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Join a naturalist to hike the 1.4-mile Seneca Trail to earn spree credit. Then, stick around for a campfire and s'mores while supplies last! For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Sunday, October 25, 1 - 2:30 p.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Hawks and owls are fascinating birds of prey known for their sharp vision and hunting skills. Hawks are active during the day, using speed and agility, while owls are nocturnal hunters with silent flight. Both play important roles in ecosystems by controlling rodent populations and maintaining natural balance. Join a naturalist as we learn how to identify these amazing creatures from their flight patterns and other clues. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Monday, October 26, 6:30 - 8 p.m.

Deep Lock Quarry Metro Park/Quarry Trail

5779 Riverview Rd., Peninsula

Join a naturalist as the sun sets and full moon rises to discover some of the park’s most elusive and misunderstood residents: coyotes. After a short presentation, we’ll take a quiet moonlit stroll along the 1.4-mile Quarry Trail to call for these creatures in hopes they will respond. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Wednesday, October 28, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Summit Lake Nature Center

411 Ira Ave., Akron

Animal costumes aren’t just for Halloween! Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions are invited to discover the clever disguises animals use year round through stories, crafts and games. Please make other arrangements for younger children who cannot remain in infant seats or strollers. Registration is required and begins on 9/1. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Thursday, October 29, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Freedom Trail/Erie Road Trailhead

90 East Ave., Tallmadge

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

 

 

Saturday, October 31, 12 - 1 p.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Visitors Center

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Discover the spooky, weird and gross things nature has to offer in this showcase of all things uncanny. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Saturday, October 31, 1 - 3 p.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

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

 

 

Saturday, October 31, 5 - 7 p.m.

Goodyear Heights Metro Park/Main Entrance

2077 Newton St., Akron

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