December 2017 Emerald Necklace

DECEMBER Program Guide 2017

Noon Year’s Eve 10 | Hand-Feed a Chickadee 10 | Winter Recreation Opportunities 11

DECEMBER PROGRAMS BY LOCATION Off Site

3 • Kayaking 1: Introduction to Kayaking 6 • Flights of the Wrights 7 • Urban Explorations: Flats Bridges 10 • Kayaking 2: Supplemental Skills 13 • Urban Explorations: Cleveland’s Arcades 14 • Urban Explorations: Flats Bridges 16 • Scranton Road Peninsula Hop 21 • Urban Explorations: Cleveland’s Arcades

(AR) Acacia Reservation

10 • Birds of Acacia 18 • Acacia for the Young at Heart

(BeR) Bedford Reservation

2 • Conifer Quest 9 • Hemlocks and Waterfalls 9 • Woodlands of Bedford: Geology Hike 29 • Winter Walk at the Waterfall

(BCR) Big Creek Reservation

13 • Peak Geminids Meteor Shower 21 • Solstice Hike 30 • Christmas Bird Count – Lake Abram

(BWR) Bradley Woods Reservation 20 • Toddler Trek

(BNC) Brecksville Nature Center

1 • A Place of Joyful Meeting 3 • Breakfast in the Park 7 • Animal Crackers 9 • Morning on My Mountain 10 • Hike through the Hemlocks 14 • Nurture with Nature 16 – 31 • Hand-Feed a Chickadee 16 • Drop-In Discovery: Pinecone Feeder 17 • Drop-In Discovery: Natural Ornament Craft 20 • Pioneer Living for Kids: Punched Tin Ornaments 21 • Drop-In Discovery: Survival Bracelets 22 • Drop-In Discovery: Holiday Craft 23 • Coffee with the Birds 23 • Saturday Storytime 23 • Crafty Afternoon 24 • Drop-In Discovery: Pinecone Bird Feeder 28 • Drop-In Discovery: Flint and Steel 28 • Tracks in the Snow 29 • Drop-In Discovery: Knots 29 • Navigating with Nature 30 • Coffee with the Birds 31 • Life in the Cold Hike

(BrR) Brecksville Reservation 12 • Hiking for the Young at Heart

(CWC) CanalWay Center

– 31 • Hunt of the Month: Mittens 1 2 • Family Bike Ride in the Park 3 • Natural Ornaments 4 • Hike the Mountain Bike Trail 5 • Storytime at CanalWay 6 • Young Explorers 7 • Cleveland Astronomical Society 10 • Cleveland Holiday Traditions 15 • Family Movie Night 16 • Afternoon Outside: Animals in Winter 18 • Family Fun Night 21 • Winter Walk 22 • CanalWay Classic Movie: Emmet Otter’s Jug Band Christmas 23 • 12,000 Step Program – Hike for Health 27 • 12,000 Step Program – Hike for Health 27 • Winter Break Scavenger Hunt 27 • Wednesday Walk 28 • CanalWay Quick-Step 28 • Feathers and Feeders 29 • Winter is Wonderful

(CMZ) Cleveland Metroparks Zoo 1 • Tiger Tracks 2 • Santa at Wolf Lodge 2 • Tiger Tracks 3 • Santa at Wolf Lodge 6 • Preschool Safari – Who’s Been Here 9 • Santa at Wolf Lodge 10 • Santa at Wolf Lodge 12 • Homeschool – Enrichment for Our Animals 14 • Preschool Safari – Cold Weather Animals 16 • Santa at Wolf Lodge 17 • Santa at Wolf Lodge 26 • Winter Break Camp 27 • Zoo Career Day 31 • Noon Year’s Eve

(ECR) Euclid Creek Reservation 17 • Waterbirds at Wildwood

(GPR) Garfield Park Reservation 1 • Tree ID for Beginners 10 • Sunday Morning Dog Walk 23 • Winter Walk in the Woods 31 • Goodbye 2017

(HiR) Hinckley Reservation 2 • Extreme Hiking 3 • Worden’s in Winter 9 • Hills of Hinckley Hike 30 • Dog Walk

(HuR) Huntington Reservation 10 • Winter at the Beach 21 • Waterbird Lakewatch

(LR) Lakefront Reservation

10 • Bird or Bust: Waterbird Mecca 17 • Rare Bird Blitz

(MSRR) Mill Stream Run Reservation

9 • Centennial Conversations: Chalet 9 • The Chalet’s 50th Anniversary 15 • Santa Food Drive 17 • Tour de Lakes 24 • Holiday Hustle

(NCNC) North Chagrin Nature Center

2 • Birds and Coffee 3 • Suet Feeder Workshop 11 • Kids Nature Ornament 16 • Ohio Mammals Drop-in 17 • Owl Box Workshop 18 • North Chagrin Nature Photography Club 20 • Sprouts: Growing Kids and Wonder, Naturally 21 • Winter Break Explorers North 23 • The Novice Naturalist 29 • Winter Break Kid’s Basket 30 • Upcycling Craft 30 • Live Animal Lessons 30 • Owl PrOWL Hike

(NCR) North Chagrin Reservation 5 • Furrows of the Valley 7 • Still Standing 7 • Kids Explore Big Trees 10 • Birds at the Overlook 23 • Sunrise Hike 23 • Sylvan Stroll 27 • Birds at the Overlook

(OECR) Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation

9 • History and Hot Chocolate Hike

(RRR) Rocky River Reservation 31 • New Year’s Stroll

(RRNC) Rocky River Nature Center

– 31 • Gallery Wall – Michael Chesney 1 3 • Full Moon Hike 5 • Trout Unlimited 5 • Western Cuyahoga Audubon Society 6 • Nature Baby – Evergreens 9 • Winter Tree ID 12 • The Night Tree 13 • Greater Cleveland Beekeepers Association 13 • Northern Ohio Association of Herpetologists 14 • Little Explorers: Rock-a-bye Critters 15 • The S’more the Merrier 16 • Boy Scouts Merit Badge: Mammal Study

(BR) Brookside Reservation 23 • Over the River Cocoa Hike

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, The Chalet Toboggan Chutes and all Nature Centers will be closed on Monday, December 25.

See page 11 for special holiday hours at The Chalet.

Rosebrough Tiger Passage, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo 2 Emerald Necklace December 2017 | Vol. 66 #12

Rocky River Nature Center (cont’d) 16 • Wassail with Fossils 17 • Bird Banding at Rocky River Nature Center 19 • Discovering Nature: White Pines 19 • Treasure Hunt on the Trails 21 • Homeschool Happenings: Cold Weather Countdown 23 • December Dog Hike 23 • Under the Mighty Chestnut Tree 28 • What’s to Know About Snow (SCR) South Chagrin Reservation

2 • Emerald Necklace Art Club: Year-End Gathering 2 • Full Moon Along the Chagrin 9 • Nature Journaling 10 • Second Sunday at South Chagrin 10 • Cleveland Natural Science Club 21 • Tale of a Chestnut Cabin 22 • Hike to the Overlook 22 • Winter Solstice Concert 27 • Riparian Ramble 28 • Winter Break Explorers South 30 • Nature Writing 31 • Winter Hike

(WSC) Watershed Stewardship Center

2 • Winter Tree ID Walk 2 • Drop-by: Charley Harper Craft-a-Card 9 • Boy Scout Merit Badge: Environmental Science (Part I) 10 • Boy Scout Merit Badge: Environmental Science (Part II) 15 • Project FeederWatch 16 • National Ugly Sweater Day Fireside Program 16 • Yoga 17 • West Creek Mystery Series: The Case of the Marshmallow Smuggler 23 • Fireside Stories: The Lorax 24 • Sunday Drop-by: Snowflake Matching 27 • Folktale Fun: The Mitten 29 • School’s Out: Ice Crystal Blast 30 • Re-Greening the Gift Season

(WCR) West Creek Reservation

9 • Winter Tracking Sleuths 17 • Calling Coyotes 21 • Solstice Stroll 31 • Christmas Bird Count – West Creek ABBREVIATIONS: AR Acacia Reservation BCR Big Creek Reservation BeR Bedford Reservation BNC Brecksville Nature Center BR Brookside Reservation BrR Brecksville Reservation BWR Bradley Woods Reservation CMZ Cleveland Metroparks Zoo CWC CanalWay Center ECR Euclid Creek Reservation GPR Garfield Park Reservation HiR Hinckley Reservation HuR Huntington Reservation LR Lakefront Reservation MSRR Mill Stream Run Reservation NCNC North Chagrin Nature Center NCR North Chagrin Reservation OECR Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation RRNC Rocky River Nature Center RRR Rocky River Reservation SCR South Chagrin Reservation WCR West Creek Reservation WSC Watershed Stewardship Center

You’re Invited to The Chalet’s 50th Anniversary Celebration!

Saturday, December 9 Noon - 10:30 p.m.

The Chalet Recreation Area | Mill Stream Run Reservation Celebrate with games, crafts, activities and more!

Free to the public. Normal toboggan rates apply if you wish to go tobogganing.

Visit clevelandmetroparks.com/tchutes for more information or call 440-572-9990.

See page 11 for regular season hours.

Outdoor Recreation Program

Centennial Program

1 – 31 DECEMBER Hunt of the Month Temperatures are dropping, snow begins to fall: it is winter. Stop by and find our 20 hidden paper mittens. Then bundle up and go outside for a winter walk in the woods.

Through December 31 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Mon. – Sat. Noon – 5 p.m. Sun. CWC Gallery Wall – Michael Chesney Enjoy Nature: Come see original painted landscape scenes that you may recognize from Rocky River and various other Cleveland Metroparks locations. The exhibit will also include a variety of closer looks at nature by local Cleveland artist Michael Chesney.

Through December 31 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. RRNC

1 FRIDAY Tree ID for Beginners Identifying trees is at its most refined when the leaves have fallen from their branches. Join a naturalist as we identify a few of Garfield Park Reservation’s common species using bark and available buds.

1 – 2 p.m. GPR Garfield Park Center Terrain: gravel, paved, stairs, hill, 1.5 miles 216-206-1000

A Place of Joyful Meeting Karamu is a Swahili word meaning “a place of joyful ­meeting.”

Learn about the historic Camp Karamu, which was located in Brecksville Reservation and its importance in the history of Cleveland Metroparks.

7 – 8:30 p.m. BNC

In partnership with Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District

Tiger Tracks Overnight Over the course of the evening, campers will track an Amur tiger through the taiga, look for clues that they have been in the habitat and explore the many ways tigers survive in the Russian Far East.

7 p.m. – 10 a.m. CMZ Ages: 6 years and over with adult Fee: $41

Register online

2 SATURDAY Extreme Hiking Join Naturalist Pam Taylor as we cross creeks and climb hills in Hinckley. Wear appropriate footwear, trail surfaces may be slick.

9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. HiR Hinckley Lake Boathouse & Store parking lot Terrain: hills and creeks, 8 – 9 miles 440-526-1012 Emerald Necklace Art Club: Year-End Gathering Draw and paint with us! Members of the Emerald Necklace Art Club are invited to bring their favorite medium as we appreciate the signs of the season. Not a member? Call North Chagrin Nature Center at 440-473-3370.

9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. SCR Ages: adults Conifer Quest Learn to identify some of Ohio’s native species in this important tree family. During the hike, we hope to see a few of Bedford’s hidden waterfalls.

10 – 11:30 a.m. BeR Alexander Road bike parking lot Terrain: natural surface, hill, 1.8 miles 216-206-1000

DECEMBER PROGRAMS BY DATE

Birds and Coffee Come and enjoy a cup of hot coffee and brush up on your bird identification skills as we sit and watch for chickadees, cardinals and various woodpeckers through our one-way glass windows.

10 – 11:30 a.m. NCNC Nature Education Building Winter Tree ID Walk Winter is a wonderful time to hone your tree ID skills. Join Naturalist Mayim Hamblen as we learn how to key winter trees indoors. Enjoy a short walk through the woods to test our skills.

10:30 a.m. – noon WSC Terrain: paved, 0.5 mile Santa at Wolf Lodge Bring your family for the first three weekends in December to visit Santa at Wolf Lodge in Wilderness Trek. Photo opportunity with Santa available.

11 a.m. – 3 p.m. CMZ Family Bike Ride in the Park Historical Interpreter Doug Kusak leads an easy-going bike ride from CanalWay Center to Harvard Road and back. Enjoy exercise, excitement and explanations as we wander where the water winds in the Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation.

Helmet required.

1 – 3 p.m. CWC Terrain: paved, 2 hills, 6 miles Drop-by: Charley Harper Craft-a-Card Join our holiday card-making session!

Get inspired by the nature-themed styling of Charley Harper as you craft.

Several ornaments and prints will be displayed. A variety of age-appropriate crafts will be available to try.

1 – 3 p.m. WSC

Full Moon Along the Chagrin Hike with Naturalist Carly Martin along the river’s edge and enjoy the peace of a moonlit night in nature.

7 – 9 p.m. SCR Jackson Field Terrain: mostly flat, natural surface, 2.5 miles 440-473-3370 Tiger Tracks Overnight (see 12/1 for details) 7 p.m. – 10 a.m. CMZ

3 SUNDAY Breakfast in the Park Bundle up for a morning walk.

We’ll return to Brecksville Nature Center for a hot, delicious breakfast prepared by our volunteer chefs.

8 – 10 a.m. BNC Terrain: mostly flat, slippery, 1 mile

Register by phone beginning November 20 440-526-1012

Kayaking 1: Introduction to Kayaking Combines classroom and on the water practice to introduce you to basic paddling strokes and equipment. Be prepared to get wet.

9 a.m. – noon Off site Seven Hills Community Recreation Center Ages: 14 years & over with participating adult Fee: $45 (includes boat & equipment) Late fee after November 26.

Register online 216-341-1704 Santa at Wolf Lodge (see 12/2 for details) 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. CMZ clevelandmetroparks.com 3

DECEMBER PROGRAMS BY DATE Suet Feeder Workshop Want to attract woodpeckers and nuthatches to your feeder? Join Naturalist Natalie Schroder in this fun and messy workshop making suet for your feathered friends.

During this workshop, we will be using materials that have a peanut base.

2 – 3 p.m. NCNC Nature Education Building Fee: $5 per feeder

Register online through November 29 Natural Ornaments With the holiday quickly approaching we’ll soon need ornaments to deck our trees. Come to CanalWay Center to make your own ornaments from elements found in nature.

3 – 4 p.m. CWC Ages: 8 years & over

Register by phone beginning November 20 216-206-1000

Worden’s in Winter Join Historical Interpreter Beth Robb for this program where we’ll explore Worden’s Ledges, hear tales about the family that used to live there and learn how it came to be a part of Cleveland Metroparks.

3 – 4:30 p.m. HiR Worden’s Heritage Homesite Terrain: hills, slippery, 1 mile 440-526-1012 Full Moon Hike Join us for a brisk night hike through the winter forest under the light of the full moon.

6 – 7:30 p.m. RRNC Terrain: mostly flat, some stairs, 1.5 miles

4 MONDAY Hike the Mountain Bike Trail Historical Interpreter Doug Kusak leads a hike of the Mountain Bike Trail in Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation. We’ll see what’s out there on this rugged area of the park.

1 – 3:30 p.m. CWC Terrain: natural surface, rocks, steep, various challenges, 2 miles

Outdoor Recreation Program

5 TUESDAY Furrows of the Valley Enjoy the open landscapes and grooves of the valley once the leaves have fallen. We’ll hike the Scenic Loop trail and see who’s out and about today.

10 – 11:30 a.m. NCR Strawberry Pond parking lot Terrain: steep, hilly, 3 miles 440-473-3370 Storytime at CanalWay Stop by to listen to stories about what animals do during the cold winter months. While we are warm inside they fly, dig and sleep their way through the winter.

11 – 11:45 a.m. CWC Ages: 6 years & under with adult

Register online beginning November 20 216-206-1000 Trout Unlimited Join us for a presentation and discussion on local watershed conservation efforts by Jennifer Grieser, Senior Natural Resource Manager – Urban Watersheds, Cleveland Metroparks. Following the discussion, we will have a raffle for fly-fishing related items.

7 – 9 p.m. RRNC Western Cuyahoga Audubon Society: Birding with Snow Winter weather in Northeast Ohio may be frightful at times, but our native birds are adapted to deal with it. Photographer and birder Dave Lewis will share photographs of local birds in the winter, plus a few surprises.

7:30 – 9 p.m. RRNC

6 WEDNESDAY Nature Baby – Evergreens Let’s get baby out to explore the evergreen forests. Grab a baby backpack or just carry your child for a walk in the woods looking for evergreen trees. We will start with activities indoors and head outside for a hike.

10 – 11 a.m. RRNC Ages: 3 years & under with adult Terrain: mostly flat, 0.5 mile

Register online November 21 – December 5 Young Explorers Bring your little ones to CanalWay Center for a Christmas-themed Young Explorers. We’ll learn about evergreen trees, snow and other things about the holiday. We’ll also

4 Emerald Necklace December 2017

Centennial Program

make an ornament to hang on your tree.

10 – 11 a.m. or 1 – 2 p.m. CWC Ages: 3 – 5 years with adult Terrain: paved, 0.5 – 1 mile

Register online beginning December 1 216-206-1000 Preschool Safari – Who’s Been Here?

You don’t need to see an animal to know it’s been there. Discover the clues that animals leave behind for us to find. Put on your best tracking shoes and explore the animals of Wilderness Trek.

10 – 11:30 a.m. CMZ Meet at Reinberger Education Center Ages: 3 – 5 years with adult Fee: $10 member/$15 nonmember

Register online Flights of the Wrights Fueled by the fascination with a childhood toy and the biomechanics of birds, Ohio natives Orville and Wilbur Wright changed the world when they solved the mystery of controlled flight. Learn about the lives of these self-taught engineers and how their many scientific failures secured their place in natural history.

7 – 8 p.m. Off site Cuyahoga County Public Library, Parma Branch, 6996 Powers Blvd.

Ages: 7 years & over with adult

Register by phone 440-885-5362

7 THURSDAY Animal Crackers Join Miss Jenny for a special celebration of Eve Bunting’s Night Tree. We’ll read the story and make a special treat for the animals.

10 – 11:15 a.m. or 1 – 2:15 p.m. BNC Ages: 3 – 5 years only with adult Terrain: flat, 0.5 mile

Register by phone beginning November 27 440-526-1012

Still Standing Many structures have come and gone throughout the past 100 years of Cleveland Metroparks. Today we hike to find the ones still standing.

10 – 11:30 a.m. NCR Squire’s Castle parking lot Terrain: natural surface trails, 2 miles 440-473-3370 Urban Explorations: Flats Bridges Spend a part of your day hiking in the Flats with Historical Interpreter Doug Kusak. Cleveland is a city of bridges and we plan to span the

In partnership with Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District gamut of the kinds found in the Flats. Meeting location sent a week before program.

10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Off site Ages: adults, 8 years & over with adult Terrain: city streets, uneven surfaces, 2.5 miles Fee: $5

Register by phone beginning November 20 216-206-1000 Kids Explore Big Trees Join Naturalist Carly Martin to explore big trees at a curious child’s pace.

10:30 a.m. – noon NCR A.B. Williams Trailhead Ages: 4 – 9 years with adult Terrain: rolling hills, 2 miles 440-473-3370 Cleveland Astronomical Society The motion of galaxies has revealed that they do not move as our laws of gravity would have predicted. Is our understanding of gravity flawed or incomplete? Evidence for both will be presented by Dr. Stacy McGaugh of Case Western Reserve University.

6:30 – 7 p.m. Meeting CWC 7 – 8:30 p.m. Speaker CWC

9 SATURDAY Morning on My Mountain Join Naturalist Jenny McClain for a heart-pumping hike to see the view from My Mountain. We’ll follow hiking trails, bridle trails and the Buckeye trail as we look for wildlife activity in the late fall woods.

9:30 – 11:30 a.m. BNC Terrain: hills, creek crossing, 4.5 miles Winter Tree ID Join Naturalist Marty Calabrese for a brief field course on tree identification with special focus on bark characteristics. The majority of this program takes place outside.

10 – 11:30 a.m. RRNC Terrain: wet, some stairs, 0.5 mile

History and Hot Chocolate Hike As we wrap up our Centennial year, walk the Mill Creek Connector Trail from Cuyahoga Heights to Garfield Heights and back with Historical Interpreter Karen Lakus. Learn about the history of the area and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate when we return.

10 – 11:30 a.m. OECR Aqueduct Trailhead parking lot Terrain: paved, hill, 2 miles

Register by phone beginning November 20 216-206-1000

DECEMBER PROGRAMS BY DATE Santa at Wolf Lodge (see 12/2 for details) 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. CMZ Winter Tracking Sleuths Come learn about the tracks of different animals and join a naturalist on a winter hike to see what animal prints and signs we can uncover.

11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. WCR Lookout Ridge Loop Trailhead Terrain: rocky, uneven, 1 mile 440-887-1968 The Chalet’s 50th Anniversary Celebration Join The Chalet in celebrating a historic 50-year anniversary!

Games, crafts, activities and more will be provided. Free for the public, normal toboggan rates apply if you wish to go tobogganing. Visit clevelandmetroparks.com/tchutes for more information.

Noon – 10:30 p.m. MSRR The Chalet Recreation Area 440-572-9990 Boy Scout Merit Badge: Environmental Science (Part I) Join this two-part program designed to meet requirements 1, 2, 3a and 4 of the Environmental Science merit badge needed to achieve the rank of Eagle. Participants must attend both parts. (See Part II on Dec. 10) Noon – 4 p.m. WSC Ages: scouts with adult Fee: $20 (includes both Parts I and II)

Register by phone or online

by December 2 Nature Journaling Experience nature through the seasons. We will record our observations in a journal of our own creation. You may want to bring a camera.

1 – 3 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Ages: adult Annual fee: $20 for supplies

Register online between November 20 – December 6 440-473-3370

Centennial Conversations: The Chalet Winter weather doesn’t stop the fun in Cleveland Metroparks! Come celebrate the golden anniversary of The Chalet with a warm beverage and a trip down memory lane. We’ll explore 50 years of fun at Ohio’s tallest and fastest toboggan chutes.

1 – 2 p.m. MSRR The Chalet Recreation Center 440-734-6660

Hemlocks and Waterfalls We’ll hike along the mountain bike trail through the forest of Bedford Reservation. As we follow the trail above the creeks we will look for hidden waterfalls among the hemlocks.

1 – 3 p.m. BeR Bridal Veil Falls parking lot Terrain: natural surface, 2 miles 216-206-1000 Woodlands of Bedford: Geology Hike Enjoy hiking with Fred Losi beneath towering sandstone cliffs rising above Bedford Shale and the boulder-strewn rapids of Tinker’s Creek. This includes exploring the area around Bedford Glens and The Arch where we’ll learn about the history of each.

1 – 3:30 p.m. BeR Willis Picnic Area Terrain: hills, natural surface, 2 miles 216-206-1000 Hills of Hinckley Hike Join Naturalist Kathy Schmidt on this hike along an out-and-back portion of the Buckeye Trail in a more remote section of Hinckley Reservation.

2 – 4 p.m. HiR Judges Lake parking lot Ages: adult Terrain: hilly, 4 miles

10 SUNDAY Bird or Bust: Waterbird Mecca Join Naturalist Jen Brumfield on a “seabird watch” from Wendy Park where we’ll conduct a Cornell Lab of Ornithology waterbird survey for waterfowl, gulls, loons and more. Meet at the main gravel parking lot just east of the marina.

9:30 – 11:30 a.m. LR Wendy Park Terrain: mostly level, unpaved, 0.5 mile 440-734-6660

Birds of Acacia Join Naturalist Jake Kudrna as we search for birds throughout Acacia Reservation’s ever-changing landscape. Bring binoculars, some available to borrow.

9:30 – 11:30 a.m. AR Cedar Road parking lot Terrain: paved trails, 1 – 2 miles 440-473-3370

Kayaking 2: Supplemental Skills Learn deep-water re-entry rescue techniques and advanced paddling strokes. Prerequisite: Kayaking 1.

9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Off site Cleveland State University Recreation Center Ages: 14 years & over with participating adult Fee: $45 (includes boat & equipment) Late fee after December 3.

Register online 216-341-1704 Sunday Morning Dog Walk Enjoy a morning walk with your pup around Garfield Park. See what’s stirring and take time to enjoy the beauty of nature in the winter.

Walkers without dogs are welcome.

10 – 11 a.m. GPR Garfield Park Center parking lot Terrain: paved, hills, 2 miles 216-206-1000 Santa at Wolf Lodge (see 12/2 for details) 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. CMZ Boy Scout Merit Badge: Environmental Science (Part II) (See 12/9 for details) Noon – 4 p.m. WSC Winter at the Beach Enjoy the views from the windy cliffs of Huntington Reservation and then head down to the beach to view Lake Erie in its winter glory.

1 – 2:30 p.m. HuR Wolf Picnic Area Terrain: hills, stairs, sand, 1.5 miles 440-734-6660

Planting the Seeds of the Future: Cleveland Metroparks Nature Preschool Speaker Series Saturday, December 9 • 7 - 8:30 p.m. • Rocky River Nature Center Rachel Larimore, author of Establishing a Nature-based Preschool, will address the growing popularity of nature-based early childhood education and its benefits for children.

Ages: adults 440-734-6660

Hike through the Hemlocks Enjoy the majesty of the conifers as we hike along the creek on the Hemlock Loop Trail.

1 – 2:30 p.m. BNC Terrain: hills, slippery, 2.5 miles Cleveland Holiday Traditions Take a look back at the days of downtown shopping, parades and local celebrities of the past.

See what has changed and what traditions are still going strong with Historical Interpreter Karen Lakus.

2 – 3 p.m. CWC

Register online beginning November 20 216-206-1000 Second Sunday at South Chagrin Hike through this beautiful reservation and learn the history of Henry Church Rock. We may see frozen waterfalls.

2 – 3:30 p.m. SCR Shelterhouse Picnic Area Terrain: uneven wet stairs, 3 miles 440-473-3370 Birds at the Overlook Winter is a time of bird abundance if you take the time to look. Join Naturalist Jake Kudrna on an adventure through the woods to our legendary overlook where we have been hand-feeding for almost 90 years!

2 – 3:30 p.m. NCR A.B. Williams Memorial Woods Trailhead Terrain: natural surface, may be slick or icy, up to 2 miles 440-473-3370 Cleveland Natural Science Club Annual Holiday Open House and Tea Enjoy musical entertainment and refreshments.

2– 4 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge 440-473-3370

Join national experts…

at our speaker series and learn about Cleveland Metroparks new Nature Preschool and how nature-based early childhood education can benefit your child.

Speakers will provide researchbased and experiential data as well as stories from their nature preschool classrooms.

Funding for this series provided by generous donations to the Cleveland Metroparks Outdoor Education Fund.

clevelandmetroparks.com 5

DECEMBER PROGRAMS BY DATE 11 MONDAY Kids Nature Ornament Children can drop by the nature center today to make a natureinspired ornament to keep or give as a gift.

10 a.m. – noon NCNC

12 TUESDAY Hiking for the Young at Heart Join Naturalist Pam Taylor as we travel the Buckeye Trail to explore a lower flood plain.

9:30 – 11:30 a.m. BrR Brecksville Stables parking lot Terrain: natural surface, hills, 4 miles 440-526-1012 Homeschool – Enrichment for Our Animals Learn about all of the creative ways we enrich the lives of our zoo animals.

10 – 11:30 a.m. grades K – 3 CMZ Noon-1:30 p.m. grades 4 – 8 CMZ Meet at The RainForest Fee: $10 member/$15 nonmember

Register online The Night Tree Join us for the story of The Night Tree and learn how a family shares the holidays with nature. We will meet a live animal, make gifts for our animal friends and warm up with hot cocoa and cookies.

6:30 – 7:30 p.m. RRNC Terrain: mostly flat, 0.25 mile Fee: $3

Register online December 1 – 10

13 WEDNESDAY Urban Explorations: Cleveland’s Arcades Doug Kusak leads an exploration of downtown Cleveland’s arcades: the Old Arcade, Colonial Arcade and Euclid Arcade. We’ll stroll through a part of Cleveland’s grand past en route to understanding their role in Cleveland today.

10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Off site Meeting place will be disclosed a week before program.

Ages: 8 years & over with adult Fee: $5 Terrain: city streets, stairs, 1 mile

Register by phone beginning November 20 216-206-1000

Outdoor Recreation Program

Northern Ohio Association of Herpetologists: Show & Tell with a Potluck We end the year with a show and tell of the reptiles and amphibians we’ve seen throughout Ohio and beyond.

Share your photos and participate in a discussion. Also, join us for NOAH’s annual holiday potluck and raffle.

Public welcome.

6:30 – 8:30 p.m. RRNC Greater Cleveland Beekeepers Association: How Was Your Year in Beekeeping?

Come and discuss your problems and triumphs with our panel of beekeepers consisting of a first-year, a ten-year and a forty-five-year beekeeper. Bring a covered dish to share for our annual potluck. Public welcome.

7 – 9 p.m. RRNC Peak Geminids Meteor Shower The annual Geminids shower is the most spectacular meteor shower of the year, producing up to 120 brightly colored meteors per hour at its peak. Bring a blanket or chair.

8 – 9:30 p.m. BCR Beyer’s Pond parking lot Terrain: natural surface, 0.75 miles 440-887-1968

14 THURSDAY Little Explorers: Rock-a-bye Critters Bring your little explorer to learn about the long winter slumber. We’ll have hibernation crafts and stories for you and your little one. Program includes a short hike near the Rocky River Nature Center.

10 – 11 a.m. or 1 – 2 p.m. RRNC Ages: 3 – 5 years with adult Terrain: mostly flat, 0.5 mile

Register by phone November 28 – December 12 440-734-6660 Preschool Safari – Cold Weather Animals Animals have many things to keep them warm outside in the cold and snow. Explore Wilderness Trek and discover the special things that make these animals perfect for living in cold climates.

10 – 11:30 a.m. CMZ Meet at Reinberger Education Center Ages: 3 – 5 years with adult Fee: $10 member/$15 nonmember

Register online Urban Explorations: Flats Bridges (see 12/7 for details) 1 – 4 p.m. Off site 216-206-1000

6 Emerald Necklace December 2017

Centennial Program

Nurture with Nature Bring your family for a monthly program that explores nature through books, games, hikes and other activities. This month we’ll learn about conifers.

6:30 – 7:30 p.m. BNC Ages: 3 years & over with adult Terrain: stairs, 1 mile

Register by phone November 20 – December 12 440-526-1012

15 FRIDAY Project FeederWatch Learn about this great Citizen Science opportunity that allows you to help scientists collect data from the comfort of your own home! Also learn about opportunities to assist Cleveland Metroparks centers.

10:30 – 11:30 a.m. WSC Ages: adults, teens The S’more the Merrier Enjoy the setting sun and the peace of winter on an evening stroll with Naturalist Lindsey Dukles. We’ll take in all of the delightful sights winter has to offer and end with a campfire and s’mores.

4:30 – 5:30 p.m. RRNC Terrain: natural surface, 1 mile Fee: $2

Register online

by December 13 Kick Off The Holidays Santa Food Drive Donate a canned food item and receive $1 off regular admission.

One discount per person. Games, activities and more!

6 – 9 p.m. Visit with Santa. MSRR 6 – 10:30 p.m. Tobogganing The Chalet Recreation Area 440-572-9990 Visit The Chalet website at clevelandmetroparks.com/tchutes for additional toboggan and event information.

Family Movie Night Bring your family and friends to watch Dr. Seuss’s Horton Hears a Who. We’ll discover that a speck on a clover is home to more than you think. Snacks will be available for purchase or you can bring your own.

7 – 8:30 p.m. CWC

Register by phone beginning December 1 216-206-1000

In partnership with Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District

16 SATURDAY Boy Scouts Merit Badge: Mammal Study Webbed feet? Wings? We are talking about mammals of course.

Join Naturalist and merit badge counselor Marty Calabrese to work through this badge’s requirements, excluding prerequisite 3c.

9:30 a.m. – noon RRNC Terrain: moderate, wet, 2 miles

Register by phone beginning November 16 440-734-6660 Drop In Discovery: Pinecone Bird Feeder Drop in during our Hand-Feed a Chickadee and make your own pinecone feeder to take home. All materials are provided.

10 a.m. – noon BNC Scranton Road Peninsula Hop Historical Interpreter Doug Kusak walks, talks and bops about this oasis created under Hope (Memorial Bridge). It’ll be a “miled” hike with a modicum of history about many things.

10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Off site Meeting location given after registration.

Terrain: paved, flat, 3 miles

Register by phone beginning November 20 216-206-1000 Santa at Wolf Lodge (see 12/2 for details) 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. CMZ

Yoga Practice asana (yoga poses) and mindful meditation inside the center with certified yoga instructor, Kim Scott Sowinski. Yoga mats will be provided, but you can bring your own.

10:30 a.m. – noon WSC Ages: 14 years & over with participating adult Fee: $15 Late fee after December 10.

Register online

by December 14 216-341-1704

DECEMBER PROGRAMS BY DATE National Ugly Sweater Day Fireside Program Pet the “ugly sweaters” of many of the mammals who inhabit West Creek. Learn about these mammals using pelts. Enjoy complimentary marshmallows and hot chocolate.

10:30 a.m. – noon WSC Ohio Mammals Drop-in Learn about Ohio’s mammal residents at our discovery table. A naturalist will be available to show a variety of mammal pelts, mounts, skulls and a live bat.

2 – 3:30 p.m. NCNC Afternoon Outside: Animals in Winter Today we’ll discuss what animals in winter do. Some stay active, some go to sleep and some migrate. We’ll take a short hike to discover more about animals in winter.

2 – 3:30 p.m. CWC Ages: 5 – 9 years with adult Terrain: paved and natural surface, one hill, about 1 mile

Register by phone beginning December 1 216-206-1000 Wassail with Fossils Enjoy a warm winter helping of hot apple cider while learning about one of Cleveland’s largest fossil residents: Dunkleosteus. Get a glimpse of what life was like more than 300 million years ago and hear stories of local fossil hunters.

3 – 4 p.m. RRNC Ages: adults, 7 years & over with adult Fee: $2/person

Register by phone December 1 – 14 440-734-6660

17 SUNDAY Waterbirds at Wildwood Join Naturalist Natalie Schroder to scan the lake for ducks and gulls that benefit from the huge numbers of fish. We may move farther east to check out a second location. Park in the lot closest to the walking bridge.

9:30 – 11 a.m. ECR Wildwood Marina parking lot Terrain: paved surface, up to 0.5 mile 440-473-3370 Rare Bird Blitz Join Naturalist Jen Brumfield to scour the lakefront for rare gulls, loons, grebes and ducks. After conducting a lakewatch at the fishing pier, we’ll drive to nearby Wendy Park to check the harbor.

9:30 – 11:30 a.m. LR

Edgewater Park Terrain: mostly level, natural surface, 1 mile or less 440-734-6660

5:30 – 7 p.m. WCR Monarch Bluff Picnic Area Terrain: paved, natural surface, 1.5 miles

Bird Banding at Rocky River Nature Center Better than binoculars, see intricate details of birds as we capture and band birds from the feeder. Learn about bird banding, an essential tool for learning about our feathered friends. Program will be canceled during rain. Drop in anytime.

9:30 – noon RRNC

18 MONDAY

Drop-In Discovery: Natural Ornament Craft Stop by Brecksville Nature Center to make an ornament out of natural materials.

10 a.m. – noon BNC Santa at Wolf Lodge (see 12/2 for details) 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. CMZ Owl Box Workshop Are you looking to add an owl nest box to your property? Now is your chance! In this workshop, we will do our best to attract eastern screech owls by building them a cozy place to call home.

12:30 – 2 p.m. NCNC Fee: $30

Register online November 20 – December 12 Tour de Lakes Join Naturalist Lindsey Dukles on a quest for winter waterfowl.

We’ll start at Wallace Lake, check out Baldwin Lake and end at Coe Lake, driving from place to place.

Binoculars recommended, some available to borrow.

1 – 2 p.m. MSRR Quarry Rock Café Terrain: varied, 1 mile 440-734-6660 West Creek Mystery Series: The Case of the Marshmallow Smuggler What do marshmallows have to do with wetlands? Solve this riddle and more like it and you can earn a tasty treat once you have cracked the case.

1:30 – 3 p.m. WSC Calling Coyotes Known as the song dog, coyotes make several vocalizations and have a complex language. Hit the trails to learn how to translate their many calls. Bring your best coyote call or a full set of lungs.

Acacia for the Young at Heart Slow down and enjoy a leisurely walk with Naturalist Natalie Schroder as we explore all that Acacia Reservation holds during this first month of winter.

All abilities are welcome.

10 – 11 a.m. AR Meet at the kiosk Terrain: paved, some hills, up to 2 miles, may be icy 440-473-3370 Family Fun Night Stop by CanalWay Center tonight to learn a little bit about Ohio’s white-tailed deer. We’ll see their fur, antlers and tracks. Then we’ll make a deer craft for you to take home.

6:30 – 7:30 p.m. CWC

Register by phone beginning December 1 216-206-1000 North Chagrin Nature Photography Club: Holiday Potluck Dinner Party and Program Bring along a dish to share.

Dinner at 7 p.m. NCNC Program at 8:30 p.m.

19 TUESDAY Discovering Nature: White Pines Join Naturalist Bev Walborn on an outdoor adventure just for preschoolers. We will explore the forest looking for the wispy white pines.

10:30 – 11 a.m. RRNC Ages: 2 – 6 years with adult Terrain: flat, 0.6 mile Treasure Hunt on the Trails Discover the winter wildlife clues to find your way to the treasure hidden out on the trails.

1 – 2:30 p.m. RRNC Ages: 6 – 8 years with adult Terrain: steep stairs, hills, 1.5 miles

Register by phone December 4 – 14 440-734-6660

20 WEDNESDAY Sprouts: Growing Kids and Wonder, Naturally Join Natalie the Naturalist to discover coyotes. We will have discovery time, a craft and go on a short hike. Please dress for the weather.

10:30 – 11:45 a.m. NCNC

Nature Education Building Ages: 3 – 5 years with adult Terrain: paved, may be icy or muddy, 0.75 mile Register by phone between November 20 – December 15 440-473-3370 Pioneer Living for Kids: Punched Tin Ornaments Join Historical Interpreter Beth Robb for this program on pioneer living.

We’ll learn about pioneer life in Ohio, enjoy some snacks and make some punched tin ornaments to take home. Each month will feature a different pioneer theme.

1:30 – 3 p.m. BNC Ages: 9 – 12 years with adult

Register by phone beginning December 4 440-526-1012 Toddler Trek Join Naturalist Marty Calabrese for a slow-paced, curious winter walk into the wilds of Bradley Woods. On this adventure we’ll loop Bunns Lake to look and listen for wildlife.

3 – 4 p.m. BWR Codrington Shelterhouse Ages: 2 – 5 years with adult Terrain: wet, icy, 0.5 mile 440-734-6660

21 THURSDAY Winter Break Explorers North Kids will have a blast playing outside at this one-day camp. We’ll hand-feed chickadees, go for a hike and play games.

9 a.m. – 1 p.m. NCNC Nature Education Building Age: 8 – 12 years Fee: $15 per child

Register online November 20 – December 18 Waterbird Lakewatch Join Naturalist Jen Brumfield to scour the lakefront for rare gulls, loons, grebes and ducks. We’ll conduct a lakewatch atop the high bluffs overlooking Lake Erie. Meet at the water tower, in the parking lot north of Lake Road.

9:30 – 11:30 a.m. HuR Terrain: mostly level, natural surface, 0.5 mile 440-734-6660 Drop-In Discovery: Survival Bracelets Stop by to make your own survival bracelet and find out how functional this trendy bracelet can be.

10 a.m. – noon BNC Fee: $3 clevelandmetroparks.com 7

DECEMBER PROGRAMS BY DATE Urban Explorations: Cleveland’s Arcades (see 12/13 for details) 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Off site

Keystone Picnic Shelter Terrain: gentle hills, paved, 1.5 miles 440-887-1968

Homeschool Happenings: Cold Weather Countdown Both plants and animals are preparing for the upcoming decrease in temperature and daylight. Discover the amazing built-in adaptations that enable them to survive in an ever-changing climate.

1:30 – 3:30 p.m. RRNC Ages: grades 1 – 3, grades 4 – 6, grades 7 – 9 Cuyahoga county residents and Hinckley Township residents

Register by phone December 1 – 7

Out-of-county residents

Register December 3 – 7 440-734-6660

22 FRIDAY

Solstice Hike It’s finally here—the shortest daylight of the year! After today, we will be treated to just a bit more sunshine each day into summer.

Celebrate with a walk in the sun starting at Lake Isaac.

2 – 3:30 p.m. BCR Lake Isaac parking lot Terrain: flat, natural surface, 2 miles 440-887-1968 Winter Walk Join us for an afternoon walk to welcome winter to the area. We’ll hike the lower 40 Loop and look for signs of Jack Frost’s arrival.

3 – 4 p.m. CWC Terrain: paved, one hill, 1.5 miles 216-206-1000

Tale of a Chestnut Cabin Look About Lodge is a hidden treasure in South Chagrin. Built in 1938, this National Registered historic building has many stories behind the logs that constitute its walls. Join us by the hearth for a night of tales, chestnuts and seasonal atmosphere.

6 – 7:30 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Ages: adult

Register online November 20 – December 15 440-473-3370 Solstice Stroll The dark days of winter can sap your energy, but a refreshing walk can counteract that. Embrace the darkest day of the year with an evening stroll to renew your vigor.

6:30 – 8 p.m. WCR

Outdoor Recreation Program

Drop-In Discovery: Holiday Craft Create a simple yet lovely natural ornament that is suitable for a gift.

10 a.m. – noon BNC Hike to the Overlook Join a naturalist on a short hike along Chagrin Overlook Trail while we search for signs of winter wildlife and admire an excellent view of the Chagrin River.

Noon – 1:30 p.m. SCR Chagrin Blvd. parking lot Terrain: uneven surface, hills, potentially icy, 1 mile 440-473-3370 Winter Solstice Concert Come celebrate the coming of winter as we snuggle into a cozy concert at Look About Lodge. This traditional concert is a favorite of many. Back by popular demand, we have the woodwind trio Phoenix Down returning for a peaceful and enriching evening. This concert is free.

7 – 8 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge

Register by phone November 20 – December 21 440-473-3370 CanalWay Classic Movie: Emmet Otter’s Jug Band Christmas Told in the classic style of songs that will warm the hearts of the whole family, Jim Henson’s charismatic puppets share a story of family and friendship through tales of animal life on the river.

7 – 8 p.m. CWC

Register by phone beginning December 1 216-206-1000

23 SATURDAY Sunrise Hike This quiet and peaceful walk through A.B. Williams Memorial Woods will lead us to a new overlook with a vista of Dinger’s Marsh. Your way will be lit by luminaries as we observe early morning natural beauties.

7:30 – 8:45 a.m. NCR A.B. Williams Memorial Woods Trailhead Terrain: natural surface, stairs, 1.5 miles 440-473-3370

8 Emerald Necklace December 2017

Centennial Program

Coffee with the Birds Enjoy a cup of coffee while watching the birds that come to the nature center’s feeders, then step outside at 9 a.m. for a chance to hand-feed them. Coffee and binoculars will be provided.

8 – 9 a.m. BNC Ages: adults

Register by phone beginning December 14 440-526-1012 Saturday Storytime Join Miss Jenny around the fire for storytime before heading out to hand-feed the birds.

9:30 – 10 a.m. BNC Ages: families with children 6 years & under December Dog Hike Get into the park for some stress relief from the busy season for a walk with your four-legged friend.

Take in the beauty of winter with other dog lovers and their wellsocialized buddy.

10 – 11 a.m. RRNC Terrain: wet, stairs; 1.5 miles

Over the River Cocoa Hike Take a festive holiday hike over the river and through the woods.

Warm drinks provided upon our return.

10 – 11:30 a.m. BR Meadow Ridge Picnic Area Terrain: paved, 1 hill, 1.5 miles 440-887-1968 Sylvan Stroll Take a walk under majestic old hemlock and beech trees as we explore the trails in A.B. Williams Memorial Woods. We will stop to hand-feed the chickadees along the way.

10 – 11:30 a.m. NCR A.B. Williams parking lot Terrain: hills, natural surface, 2 – 2.5 miles 440-473-3370 12,000 Step Program – Hike for Health Health professionals now recommend taking at least 12,000 steps a day to improve or maintain your health. Historical Interpreter Doug Kusak will show you how far that gets you in the Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation.

10 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. CWC Terrain: paved, two hills, 6 miles

In partnership with Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District Winter Walk in the Woods Need a break in the midst of the busy holiday season? Take time to enjoy the peace of a winter walk in the woods. Allow the stillness of nature to be a rejuvenating force.

1 – 2 p.m. GPR Garfield Park Center porch Terrain: paved, natural surface, hills 1.8 miles 216-206-1000 The Novice Naturalist Winter in Ohio can be a spectacular paradise with fresh snow highlighted by remarkable evergreen trees. Join Naturalist Foster Brown as we identify different kinds of evergreens and find memorable ways to distinguish between pines, spruce and fir trees.

1 – 2:30 p.m. NCNC Terrain: natural surface, 0.5 miles Under the Mighty Chestnut Tree Once a towering giant of the eastern forest, the American chestnut was virtually eliminated by a microscopic fungus. Enjoy a presentation by Naturalist Marty Calabrese chronicling the rise, fall and modern-day comeback of this American icon. Indoor program.

2 – 3 p.m. RRNC Crafty Afternoon Get in a creative mood and learn how to make beaded key chains and other fun crafts you can keep for yourself or give as a gift.

2 – 4 p.m. BNC Ages: 9 years & over

Register by phone beginning December 1 440-526-1012 Fireside Stories: The Lorax “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better, it’s not.” Come listen and help act out the Dr. Seuss classic, The Lorax. Learn why we must care for the trees, the water and the land.

2:30 – 3:30 p.m. WSC

24 SUNDAY Holiday Hustle Relieve some holiday stress by taking to the trails with Naturalist Lindsey Dukles on this fast-paced winter hike. We’ll get our blood pumping and enjoy the changing winter scenery.

9 – 11:30 a.m. MSRR Royalview Picnic Area Terrain: steep hills, natural surface, slick, 5 miles 440-734-6660

DECEMBER PROGRAMS BY DATE Drop-In Discovery: Pinecone Bird Feeder Stop by the Brecksville Nature Center to make a pinecone bird feeder to take home.

10 a.m. – noon BNC Sunday Drop-by: Snowflake Matching Stop by to celebrate this snowy season with a fun game. Bring your family and friends to this friendly competition while learning about snowflakes. Is each snowflake truly unique?

1 – 2:30 p.m. WSC

25 MONDAY Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, The Chalet Toboggan Chutes and all Nature Centers will be closed today.

26 TUESDAY Winter Break Camp At this four-day camp, explore the Zoo to see how active our animals are during the winter and what we do to keep them comfortable year round. Camp includes small animal encounters, arts and crafts and conservation-themed games.

9 a.m. – 4 p.m. CMZ (half-day option available) Meet at The RainForest Ages: 5 – 10 years Fee: $135 member/$155 nonmember (half day pricing available)

Register online

27 WEDNESDAY Zoo Career Day Explore the professional fields of animal care, veterinary medicine, education and more. Get close with small animals, meet with Zoo staff, take a behind-the-scenes tour and get a closer look at the real work involved with these exciting careers.

9 a.m. – 2 p.m. CMZ Meet in Reinberger Education Center Ages: grades 5 – 8 Fee: $45 member/$50 nonmember

Register online 12,000 Step Program – Hike for Health (see 12/23 for details) 10 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. CWC Winter Break Scavenger Hunt Come in between the times listed to pick up a scavenger hunt. Explore CanalWay Center inside and outside as you look for natural and unnatural winter items and receive a reward when completed. Dress for the weather.

Noon – 2 p.m. CWC 216-206-1000 Folktale Fun: The Mitten Snug in for this cozy, winter wildlife tale. The whole family can enjoy an indoor reading and craft a mitten full of woolly characters.

1 – 2:30 p.m. WSC Ages: 6 years & over with adult Riparian Ramble Tired of being indoors? Come explore the field and forest in search of nature’s beauty. See majestic riverside cliffs, hear a red-tailed hawk calling in the distance or perhaps see a great blue heron hunting along the scenic Chagrin River.

2 – 3:30 p.m. SCR Jackson Field parking lot Terrain: mostly level, 2-2.5 miles 440-473-3370 Birds at the Overlook Winter is a time of bird abundance if you take the time to look. Join Naturalist Natalie Schroder on an adventure through the woods to our legendary overlook and try your hand at feeding chickadees, nuthatches and titmice.

2 – 4 p.m. NCR A.B. Williams Memorial Woods Trailhead Terrain: natural surface, potentially icy, up to 2 miles 440-473-3370 Wednesday Walk We’ll meet at the center and head into the valley to walk south along the Ohio and Erie Canal Trail. We’ll stop along the trail looking for birds and other animals enjoying this winter afternoon.

2 – 4 p.m. CWC Terrain: paved, one hill, 3 miles

28 THURSDAY Winter Break Explorers South Drop the kids off and let them discover all there is to do at South Chagrin in winter. We will go on a scavenger hunt, have a winter adventure and enjoy an indoor campfire.

9 a.m. – 1 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Age: 8 – 12 years Fee: $15 per child

Register online November 20 – December 24 440-473-3370 Feathers and Feeders Stop by this morning to watch the birds with us. We’ll discuss some of

the birds that visit the feeders all year long. Then we’ll make a bird feeder to put up in your yard.

10 – 11 a.m. CWC Ages: 5 – 10 years with adult

Register online beginning December 1 216-206-1000 Drop-In Discovery: Flint and Steel Have you ever made a fire using primitive methods? Drop by and learn to create a spark by striking steel against flint, the first step in starting a campfire.

10 a.m. – noon BNC CanalWay Quick-Step Historical Interpreter Doug Kusak leads a short hike from CanalWay Center down to the Lower 40 Loop Trail and back to CanalWay Center.

1 – 2 p.m. CWC Terrain: paved, one large hill, 1.5 miles 216-206-1000 What’s to Know About Snow Living in the far North, the Inuit have many names for different types of snow. We’ll go on a snow search to find “anniu,” and “api” and “quali” and more. At the end of our search, we’ll make a “quinzhee,” a snow shelter!

1 – 2:30 p.m. RRNC Terrain: some unpaved, 1 mile or less Tracks in the Snow Bring your own t-shirt or bandana to stamp with animal tracks as we learn to identify animals by the prints they leave behind. While the crafts are drying, we’ll take a short hike to find some real tracks in the snow.

1 – 3 p.m. BNC Terrain: stairs, 0.75 mile

29 FRIDAY Drop-In Discovery: Knots A properly tied knot can mean a lot. Stop by to learn some basic yet useful knots and try out some that are just plain fun.

10 a.m. – noon BNC Winter is Wonderful The cold can’t keep us inside! In this program, we will explore the joys of winter through a story, a short hike and a craft. The craft is fun for many ages and will freeze our experience in time.

10:30 – 11:30 a.m. CWC Ages: 4 – 7 years with adult

Terrain: paved, hill, 0.5 miles

Register by phone beginning December 1 216-206-1000 Winter Break Kid’s Basket Children who are enjoying some days off school will love this chance to come to North Chagrin Nature Center and weave their very own basket. All supplies and instruction are included.

Bring a lunch.

10:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. NCNC Ages: 9 – 15 years Fee: $25

Register online November 20 – December 23 School’s Out: Ice Crystal Blast Come learn about the atmosphere and precipitation through water crystals. Start a dazzling experiment to visualize crystalline structures and take home your creation at the end of this indoor program.

1 – 2:30 p.m. WSC Ages: 8 years & over with adult

Register by phone or online

by December 28 440-887-1968 Winter Walk

at the Waterfall The Great Falls of Tinker’s Creek is spectacular year round, but especially in the winter. This is also a great time for viewing the remnants of bridges, dams, mills and more. Meet Historical Interpreter Karen Lakus for an interpretive walk around this early Bedford industrial area and celebrate the Cleveland Metroparks Centennial one last time.

2 – 3 p.m. BeR Viaduct Park parking lot Terrain: paved, natural surface, hilly, stairs, 1 mile 216-206-1000 Navigating with Nature This beginner’s class will teach you how to navigate using the nature around you.

7 – 8:30 p.m. BNC Terrain: flat, paved, 0.5 mile

30 SATURDAY Christmas Bird Count – Lake Abram Join Western Cuyahoga Audubon Society as we count birds leaving their nocturnal roost at dawn in the marsh. Every bird counts during the Christmas Bird Count. Beginners welcome. Binoculars recommended, some available to borrow.

7:30 – 10:30 a.m. BCR Eastland Road Trailhead Terrain: paved, flat, 2.5 miles 440-887-1968 clevelandmetroparks.com 9

DECEMBER PROGRAMS BY DATE Coffee with the Birds (see 12/23 for details) 8 – 9 a.m. BNC Nature Writing Join writers Jenny Clark and Linda Tuthill as we express our creative side through the wonders of natural history. Take a short, naturalist-led hike outdoors, explore themed writing prompts and enjoy lunch at historic Look About Lodge.

9 a.m. – 1 p.m. SCR Ages: 16 years & over Fee: $25 Terrain: flat, 0.5 mile

Register online between November 20 – December 22 440-473-3370 Upcycling Craft Are you getting a little stir crazy over the winter break? Visit North Chagrin Nature Center and make a “cork critter.” We will take old corks and fashion animals to your liking.

This is a free program for all ages.

10:30 a.m. – noon NCNC

Outdoor Recreation Program

In partnership with Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District

31 SUNDAY Christmas Bird Count-West Creek Celebrate citizen science by searching high and low to count every bird in the Southern Cuyahoga Christmas Bird Count circle. Christmas Bird Counts have a rich 118-year history. Beginners welcome. Binoculars recommended, some available to borrow.

9 – 11:30 a.m. WCR Monarch Bluff Picnic Area Terrain: varied, 3 miles 440-887-1968 Winter Hike Join Naturalist Wendy Weirich for a wintry hike through the hemlock forests and rolling hills of the Alleghany Plateau in South Chagrin.

10 a.m. - noon SCR Shelterhouse Picnic Area Terrain: rolling hills, 2 miles

Noon Year’s Eve

December 31 • 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

Live Animal Lessons Naturalist Foster Brown will share the natural history of the barred owl. These gorgeous birds of prey have fascinating features, which make them one of North Chagrin Reservation’s most asked about resident birds.

1 – 2 p.m. NCNC

Bring your little party animals to celebrate with our animals. We’ll ring in the new year at noon with a ball drop over the Zoo’s Welcome Plaza! Enjoy music, dancing, crafts and more. All activities are included with Zoo admission.

216-661-6500

Owl PrOWL Hike After seeing a live barred owl in hand with live animal lessons, we will then head out on the trail to see if we can spot a barred owl in its natural environment in A.B. Williams Memorial Woods.

2 – 3 p.m. NCNC Terrain: natural surface, stairs, 1.5 miles

New Year’s Stroll Enjoy hiking along the scenic Rocky River in celebration of the coming new year.

1 – 2:30 p.m. RRR Mastick Woods Golf Course parking lot Terrain: flat, 2.5 miles 440-734-6660

Dog Walk Let’s make some tracks with your canine companion. We’ll head around the lake in search of other animals that are leaving their tracks behind.

2 – 3:30 p.m. HiR Hinckley Lake Boathouse & Store Terrain: natural surface, 3.4 miles 440-526-1012

Life in the Cold Hike Join Naturalist Joel Kavaras for a hike through the winter woods where we’ll make stops along the way to discuss the science behind how our plants and animals survive the harsh winter weather.

2 – 4 p.m. BNC Ages: adult Terrain: hills, stairs, possibly slippery, 2.5 miles

Re-greening the Gift Season Winter’s gift-giving season is wrapping up. Living simply with an uncluttered closet and calendar may be the best green gift yet. Let’s share ways to create a joyful path to sustainability and we’ll provide tips from our park too.

4 – 5 p.m. WSC

Centennial Program

Goodbye 2017 This is your last chance to get out and enjoy 2017. We’ll briskly walk the exterior of Garfield Reservation before we ring in the New Year.

3 – 4 p.m. GPR Garfield Center parking lot Terrain: easy, paved, 2 miles 216-206-1000 10 Emerald Necklace December 2017

Hand-Feed a Chickadee

December 16 – 31 (excluding December 25) 10 a.m. – noon • Brecksville Reservation Brecksville Nature Center Looking for something to do with your family and friends over the holidays? Stop by to hand-feed the chickadees. We’ll supply the black oil sunflower seeds and instructions that help make this experience one to remember.

LOOK AHEAD TO JANUARY Winteriffic

Saturday, January 7 • noon – 5 p.m.

The Chalet at Mill Stream Run Reservation Winter blues got you down? Bundle up and get outside to experience all that the Cleveland Metroparks has to offer in winter.

Let the celebration continue with The Chalet’s 50th anniversary season by joining us at our Winteriffic event for a fun-filled day with activities for all ages. Visit clevelandmetroparks.com or call 440-734-6660 for additional details.

Saturday Night Specials

Saturdays, January 13 – February 17 • 7:30 – 9 p.m.

North Chagrin Nature Center Travel with us through the tallgrass prairies, go birding in Israel and backpack around Ohio on the Buckeye Trail. Incredible photographs and passionate speakers are sure to help you plan your next trip.

Call 440-473-3370 for more information.

Owl HOOT-enanny

Sunday, January 21 • 1 – 4 p.m. • North Chagrin Nature Center Whooooo do you hear calling in the night? Join us to discover the common to the not-so-common owls found in Northeast Ohio.

Enjoy an afternoon of live animal talks, owling hikes and owlthemed crafts and activities.

Call 440-473-3370 for more information.

Cleveland Metroparks is committed to providing quality

recreational opportunities to the people of Greater Cleveland. If you need special assistance to attend a program or visit a facility, please call ahead to the number listed for the event or see the directory provided on the back cover. You may also visit clevelandmetroparks.com.

NATURE SHOPS HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE

Saturday & Sunday, December 9 & 10 Enjoy complimentary snacks, free gift wrapping and more at all shops!

Our unique selections of Cleveland Metroparks apparel and merchandise, including our new 2018 calendar, make for excellent holiday gifts.

Hinckley Lake Boathouse & Store

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NOW ON SALE!

Cleveland Metroparks Centennial Book Award-winning, commemorative Cleveland Metroparks centennial coffeetable book, The 100 Year Trail, is a part of Cleveland’s history AND a perfect holiday gift. Over two-hundred fifty pages with stunning archival photos and fun gems about your favorite reservations.

Regularly $49.95 Calendar

Nature Shops located at:

DECEMBER PROGRAMS BY DATE

Now Only $30

$

10

North Chagrin Nature Center

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Rocky River Nature Center

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Watershed Stewardship Center

These items and more are available at the Nature Shops or at Cleveland Metroparks kiosk at Great Northern Mall, or online at clevelandmetroparks.com.

Winter Recreation in Cleveland Metroparks

Snowshoe rentals*

Cross-country ski rentals*

Sledding hills

ROCKY RIVER RESERVATION Big Met Golf Course 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

440-331-1070

ROCKY RIVER RESERVATION Big Met Golf Course 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

440-331-1070

BIG CREEK RESERVATION Memphis Picnic Area

NORTH CHAGRIN RESERVATION North Chagrin Nature Center 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

440-473-3370

Weekday Rates Adults – $10 first hour – $5 each additional hour Juniors (12 & Under) – $7 first hour – $3 each additional hour

HINCKLEY RESERVATION Hinckley Lake Boathouse and Store 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

330-278-2160

Weekend Rates Adults – $12 first hour – $5 each additional hour Juniors (12 & Under) – $8 first hour – $3 each additional hour

Prices vary by location, call for details. * Hours of operation are weather dependent of at least four inches of compacted snow on the ground. Call area of interest for more information.

For cross-country ski or snowshoe classes, visit clevelandmetroparks.com/or

Tobogganing MILL STREAM RUN RESERVATION The Chalet Recreation Area 440-572-9990 Fridays: 6 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.

Saturdays: Noon – 10:30 p.m.

Sundays: Noon – 5 p.m.

Rates: Adults - $12 all day ticket Children (11 & Under) – $10 all day ticket One-Ride ticket – $6 Visit clevelandmetroparks.com/tchutes for more information on group rates, private rentals and college I.D. night powered by MTD.

BRECKSVILLE RESERVATION Sleepy Hollow Golf Course EUCLID CREEK RESERVATION Kelley Picnic Area HINCKLEY RESERVATION Sledding hill off State Road (night lighting) MILL STREAM RUN RESERVATION Pawpaw Picnic Area (night lighting) NORTH CHAGRIN RESERVATION Old River Farm Picnic Area (night lighting) ROCKY RIVER RESERVATION Sledding hill north of Barrett Road ROCKY RIVER RESERVATION Big Met, Little Met and Mastick Woods Golf Courses SOUTH CHAGRIN RESERVATION Sledding hill at corner of Sulphur Springs Drive and Chagrin River Road SOUTH CHAGRIN RESERVATION Sledding hill off Hawthorne Parkway south of Solon Road

SPECIAL HOLIDAY HOURS

for The Chalet Toboggan Chutes start Wed., December 20 through Monday, January 1 Mon – Sat noon –10:30 p.m.

Sun, Dec 24 noon – 4 p.m.

Mon, Dec 25 CLOSED Sun, Dec 31 noon – 5 p.m.

Mon, Jan 1 noon - 10:30 p.m

clevelandmetroparks.com 11

4101 Fulton Parkway Cleveland, Ohio 44144-1923

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID Cleveland, Ohio Permit No. 2911

DATED MATERIAL DO NOT DELAY

printed on recycled paper

Emerald Necklace Published monthly by: Cleveland Metroparks 216-635-3200 clevelandmetroparks.com

Directory Board of Park Commissioners Dan T. Moore Bruce G. Rinker President

Vice President

Debra K. Berry

Brian M. Zimmerman

Vice President

Chief Executive Officer

Cleveland Metroparks Administration Offices 216-635-3200/24-hour info 4101 Fulton Parkway Cleveland, OH 44144 clevelandmetroparks.com

Nature Centers: Brecksville Nature Center 9000 Chippewa Creek Drive Brecksville, OH 44141 Brecksville Reservation 440-526-1012

Rental Facilities 216-635-3304

CanalWay Center 4524 E. 49th Street Cuyahoga Heights, OH 44125 Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation 216-206-1000

Cleveland Metroparks Rangers Accidents or Emergencies 440-333-4911

RIVERGATE

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo & The RainForest 216-661-6500/24-hour info 3900 Wildlife Way Cleveland, OH 44109 clevelandmetroparks.com/zoo Cleveland Metroparks Golf Golf Services/440-232-7247 (general course info & inquiries) clevelandmetroparks.com/golf The Chalet Recreation Area 16200 Valley Parkway Strongsville, OH 44136 Mill Stream Run Reservation 440-572-9990 Outdoor Recreation 216-341-1704 clevelandmetroparks.com/or

Cleveland Metroparks app available for download for iPhone and Android.

Cleveland Metroparks does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age or disability in employment, services or access to programs or activities.

Emerald Necklace is also available online at clevelandmetroparks.com

Outdoor Experiences Administration 216-881-8141

Look About Lodge 37374 Miles Road Bentleyville, OH 44022 South Chagrin Reservation 440-473-3370 North Chagrin Nature Center 401 Buttermilk Falls Parkway Mayfield Village, OH 44094 North Chagrin Reservation 440-473-3370 Rocky River Nature Center 24000 Valley Parkway North Olmsted, OH 44070 Rocky River Reservation 440-734-6660 Watershed Stewardship Center 2277 W. Ridgewood Drive Parma, OH 44134 West Creek Reservation 440-887-1968

Cover photo: Big Met Golf Course sledding hill – Rocky River Reservation Additional photos courtesy of Cleveland Metroparks photo archive, unless otherwise noted.