Emerald Necklace September ‘11 Volume 60 #9
Featuring Cleveland Metroparks program guide and events
Inside: Institute Of The Great Outdoors Catalog
Contents Special Events 2 Escape on The Underground Railroad 6 Hear Here! Audio Tour 7 Cedar Valley Settlers Celebration & Music Festival
Features 3 The Blue Darter
Columns 4 5 8 12
Notes from the Field Naturalist’s Almanac Inside the Emerald Necklace Zoo News
11 14 17 22 23
Fall Hayrides Fall is Fantastic for Golf Institute of the Great Outdoors Events By Location Events Calendar
In Addition
Escape on the Underground Railroad Saturdays, October 1, 7 & 8 (adults only) • 7 - 9:30 pm. (Special: “Educators Only” • Friday, September 30)
Hemlock Creek Picnic Area • Bedford Reservation A history book or movie cannot begin to get across the reality of this period in history. During this exciting program, you will become part of the story. Those who travelled the same paths over the years have walked away changed after just a few hours portraying their part of the past during this re-enactment of the Underground Railroad. In its 15th year, Escape on the Underground Railroad will once again appear in the darkness of the evening in Bedford Reservation. Join us for one of the following programs held on October 1, 7 or 8 from 7 - 9:30 p.m. each evening. Due to the format and subject matter of this program, participants must be actively involved. Programs on October 1 and 7 will be for those 15 years of age or older. Those aged 15 - 17 will be required to participate with an adult parent or guardian. The October 8 program will be for Adults Only.
All other photos by Casey Batule or Cleveland Metroparks archives unless otherwise noted.
Emerald Necklace Published monthly by:
Cleveland Metroparks 216-635-3200 TTY 216-351-0808 clevelandmetroparks.com
Paulette Welch Editor
Nobbynees Ltd. Graphic Design
RR Donnelley Printing
Board of Park Commissioners Bruce G. Rinker President
Dan T. Moore Vice -President
David W. Whitehead Brian M. Zimmerman Vice-President
Executive Director-Secretary
This year, we will have a special night on September 30 that we are opening up for Educators Only. This night will have smaller groups, a chance for you to ask more detailed questions, and gain a different experience than with larger groups. If you are interested in history or teaching it, this night’s for you. Space for each night is limited. Registration is a must and begins on September 1.
For editorial questions or comments, contact Paulette Welch at 216-635-3205. 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 and activities. Special assistance for Cleveland Metroparks programs or facilities is available by calling 216-635-3264 in advance.
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For more information and to register, call 216-341-3152. Hemlock Creek Picnic Area is located off Button Road in Bedford Reservation, just east of Dunham Road in Walton Hills
Emerald Necklace, September 2011
The Blue Darter A male northern cardinal pauses at a suburban bird feeder to sample the offering of sunflower seed. He is not aware of the pair of ruby eyes watching from a nearby hemlock, and as the cardinal dips his head down for another seed, the hungry Cooper’s hawk makes her move. With a burst of acceleration, the little raptor bolts out of the tree and makes an aerial sprint for the cardinal. The red bird reacts and dashes toward a large rose bush where there is safety in the thorny maze, but he is quickly overtaken. The blue-gray hawk grabs the smaller bird with her long, talon-studded toes and disappears with him into the woods. At the kitchen window, another pair of eyes have watched the drama unfold, and are “seeing red”. The homeowner is not pleased. To her, an innocent songbird has just been murdered by a winged demon. This drama is played out daily in suburban areas, where the adaptable Cooper’s hawk is ready and willing to take advantage of the tasty banquet of passerines at the local birdfeeders. Once known as the “Blue Darter”, this hawk is becoming more common in our neighborhoods. Many people are familiar with the large red-tailed hawks that are common along our freeways, but the furtive Cooper’s hawk is less familiar. The female Cooper’s is about the size of a crow and the male is much smaller. Immature birds have pale yellow eyes and the body is brown above and creamy white below, with dark streaks on the chest and belly. The adults have orange to deep red eyes and the body is blue-gray above with the chest and belly barred with light reddish-brown. These long-tailed, lanky hawks are built for chasing down small to medium sized birds. Sometimes the hawks will fly in and out of evergreens, trying to make hiding birds panic and fly
out into the open, where they are more easily captured. A sprinter, it will often give up if prey is not caught quickly on the first attempt. In order to capture fast and elusive prey, these accipiter hawks have hair-trigger reflexes. They are remarkably agile, mirroring the movements of dodging prey while avoiding collisions with trees and branches. These stealthy hawks often use trees, houses, and other objects to deliberately conceal an approach until it is within range to launch the final attack. Life is not easy for birds of prey, and it has been estimated that about 75% of these hawks die before their first birthday. These medium-sized raptors are vulnerable to larger hawks and owls. Cooper’s hawks are often killed when they strike windows while in pursuit of birds around feeders. Small birds are hard to catch, and many immature hawks die because they cannot catch enough to eat once they leave the nest. Setting up a backyard feeder not only allows close viewing of small songbirds; it can provide opportunities to occasionally observe the stealth, speed and agility of a Cooper’s hawk. Jeff Riebe, Naturalist North Chagrin Nature Center jar@clevelandmetroparks.com Illustration by Jeff Riebe
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Notes From The Field
The Old Birding Vest
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Got up early this morning and found it unusually cool for late June, so I looked around in the closet and pulled out my old birding vest to wear today. Like me, it’s looking a little faded and rumpled, I guess, but as I took a brief hike today, I remembered that it’s filled with good memories. The essence of Cleveland Metroparks permeates this old vest, my standard garb on birding and hiking trips for over 20 years. It reminds me of Cape May and hawk watches with a dozen or more groups from our Institute of the Great Outdoors (IGO). Its many pockets have held bird calls, cameras, cell phones, trip notebooks, water bottles, maps and compasses, small GPS units, a snack or two, first aid kits, birding and wildflower guides, and other odds and ends.
the first time - bringing my life list to over 500 birds for North America. We visited Carmel Valley for magpies and lark sparrows and Steller’s jays, and we found the elusive wandering tattler on the rocky shores of Monterey Bay. There’s still probably a trace of Pacific Ocean salt spray locked in this old vest somewhere.
There’s an unbleachable mud stain or two from Ontario in this old vest, too. It carried energy bars, water and spare binoculars on a hike up the back of a threehundred-foot cliff overlooking Rock Lake in Algonquin Provinphoto by Louisa Kreider cial Park, with another IGO group that included former Cleveland Metroparks Commissioner Bill Ryan. We sat on, near or back from the sheer cliff face, depending on each person’s tolerance of extreme heights, at a place where Canada’s First People had created vision quest pits, there to be closer to the God they knew as the Great Spirit. In that magical spot, overlooking five There’s Texas in this vest, and three great bird- miles of lake, unbroken forest and clear blue skies, ing trips along the Rio Grande Valley with we felt rather close to ours as well. Vests can be a happy, enthusiastic IGO participants. It held garment, a pack, or a padded seat on granite rock. the field guide that helped us identify the rare On this trip, the old vest served as all three. white-collared seedeater, and brown jay, and My beloved Outdoor Education Division staff has white-throated thrush, and other birds found grown rather used to seeing me wearing my old vest nowhere else in the United States. It was with over the years. They know that I’m either going birdme on the marsh boardwalk at South Padre ing or hiking, or thinking of going birding or hiking, Island one evening when former President Jimmy Carter, himself an ardent bird watcher, or more often going to the office again and wishing I were going birding or hiking, when they see me arrived with his group looking for a least bittern, and I was fortunate to have the luck to be arrive with the old vest on. able to find one for him. I forgot to ask him to There’s an old saying in the north woods that a autograph my field guide. campfire never really dies, it lives in the hearts of those gathered around it, ready to be rekindled and California is in this old vest too, on a whirlshared again, no matter whether that is a week, a wind trip with another IGO group and birder month, a year, or a decade from then. I like to think extraordinaire Jen Brumfield as co-leader. It that this old vest is like that campfire, filled with held a pocket camera that was there at the right time and the right place when 13 Califor- memories of good friends and good times in the outdoors of Cleveland Metroparks and so many nia condors flew past our perch on an ocean other places, and always ready to be donned again in cliff, and it held the field checklist to record anticipation of new adventures. new “life birds” - species of birds you see for
Emerald Necklace, September 2011
I know that you have your own equivalent of my old vest, too. It might be well-softened hiking boots, or an old, worn, favorite jacket, or binoculars so wellused that the finish has rubbed off in some places. Perhaps it’s a field guide whose spine is deeply creased, with water stains here and coffee stains there, and notes you’ve taken on the pages of birds you’ve seen and places you’ve visited. September is here, and the heat of August is slipping away. Cool, crisp mornings await you every day. Put on your favorite old jacket, or vest, or boots, or pick up your binoculars or field guide, and head out to the wilds of Cleveland Metroparks. It’s time to build more memories. Robert D. Hinkle, PhD Chief, Division of Outdoor Education
rdh@clevelandmetroparks.com
QR Code Connects Nature with Technology Scan this QR code into your smartphone and you can read, hear and see what’s happening each week in the natural world. Or pick up a QR code sticker at any Cleveland Metroparks nature center to affix to your field guide, binoculars or even your car or bike. No smartphone? No problem! Log on to http://blogs.clemetparks.com/naturalists-almanac to access the same information.
Naturalist’s Almanac September
September belongs to the asters. The last hurrah of summer bursts forth from every meadow as the purples of New England aster, yellows of goldenrods and whites of flat-topped aster and little white aster color every open field. The month closes with hints of autumn splashed about the landscape. Another month remains before peak color arrives.
First Week
Birds Labor Day marks the traditional migration of the nighthawks. This whippoorwill-like bird zooms through the summer night skies hunting for insects and creating a loud “b u z z t” sound as it dives. Look for its long narrow wings with white wing bars in flight. Shortly behind this migration the chimney swifts also leave. These small swallow-like birds gather in wheeling flocks of a hundred or more around their summertime nesting sites in dormant chimneys. A spectacular migration at Baldwin Lake in Rocky River Reservation presents rare and unusual shorebirds using the exposed mud flats as a feeding area. Among the stopovers, look for semipalmated plovers, greater and lesser yellowlegs, great egrets and hundreds of killdeers. Small sandpipers, called “peeps,” are difficult to identify, but fun to watch as they probe the soft mud in search of small invertebrates. Mammals Fawns (without their spots) appear more frequently in Cleveland Metroparks meadows and open areas at dusk. Their watchful mothers are never far behind.
Second Week
Birds Although most warblers are in their confusing fall colors, watch for blackburnian, hooded, Tennessee, Cape May and magnolia warblers in and around the forests. Black ducks and blue-winged teal return from northern haunts this week. Wildflowers Cardinal flowers reaches their peak of blooming this week. The vibrant red flowers dot many marshes and river edges. A stroll through Cleveland Metroparks meadows reveals the beauties of gray goldenrod, gentians, great lobelia and turtlehead.
Trees Ohio buckeye nuts are ripe! Can you find them before the squirrels do? Look for the polished looking “buck’s eye” beneath the tough green husk. A good crop of hickory nuts and other “mast” may take the squirrels away from your bird feeders starting this week, but they will soon return!
Third Week
Birds Hummingbirds may still be flitting around your flowers if the days have not grown too cold, but most will be gone by the end of the month. Their migration may include a non-stop trip of over 500 miles across the Gulf of Mexico! Dark-eyed juncos may appear at feeders beginning this week. Sometimes called “snowbirds,” legend says that they appear just before the first snow of winter and leave after the last snow of spring. Flocks of robins increase their numbers daily as they prepare for migration. Wildflowers New England aster, perhaps the most beautiful of all fall asters, begins to bloom this week. The bright yellow center is surrounded by deep purple petals, making a lovely contrast of colors on the fall landscape. Ironweed’s bright burgundy flowers top its stems at heights of five feet or more in Cleveland Metroparks meadows. Trees and shrubs The first blush of autumn colors are now found on sumacs, sassafras, red and sugar maples, tulip trees, ashes and dogwoods.
Fourth Week
Birds Grackles accumulate in flocks numbering in the thousands as they prepare for migration. They may be joined by a few cowbirds and red-winged blackbirds. Most non-resident songbirds leave for warmer climates but cardinals and robins still serenade the dawn. White-throated sparrows begin to appear this week on their annual migration from Canada to warmer climates. Listen to their half hearted “old Sam Peabody Peabody-Peabody” calls.
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Discover the History & Beauty of South Chagrin Reservation on the Hear Here! Audio Tour Through December 1, visitors of all ages can enjoy a half-day adventure on a self-led tour of five different sites celebrating Cleveland Metroparks South Chagrin Reservation.
Hear Here! Audio Tour Sites 1. Jackson Field - located off Chagrin River Road, north of Miles Road in Moreland Hills 2. Look About Lodge - located at 37374 Miles Road, between SOM Center Road/Rte 91 and Chagrin River Road in Bentleyville 3. Sulphur Springs Picnic Area - located off Sulphur Springs Drive, between Chagrin River Road and Hawthorne Parkway in Bentleyville 4. Squaw Rock - located adjacent to Squaw Rock Picnic Area, off Hawthorne Parkway, east of SOM Center Road/Route 91 in Bentleyville 5. Quarry Rock Picnic Area - Located off Solon Road in South Chagrin Reservation, south of Chagrin River Road in Bentleyville
You can learn who carved images in the sandstone boulder called Squaw Rock, learn about the fascinating history of South Chagin’s impressive Look About Lodge made from area chestnut trees, and learn the natural history of Quarry Rock and Jackson Field, and the series of waterfalls at Sulphur Springs Picnic Area. Spend a morning or afternoon solo or with a group of people, hop in the car, and get ready to tune your radio to 1620 AM at each Hear Here! site for interesting facts about the area you are visiting. The Hear Here! tour is great for all ages and allows you the flexibility of experiencing the tour all in one day or by making different stops on different days. At each stop on the tour, you can pull your car into a parking space, turn off the engine, and tune into 1620 AM to listen to fun facts and interesting stories. The broadcast may be in progress. But the message repeats itself and can be listened to more than once to ensure all the fascinating details about the site and its surroundings are covered. To experience the wonders of the five sites even more, you are encouraged to get out and explore by hiking, picnicking or just relaxing at the site. For maps or directions to help locate Hear Here! sites, visit www.clevelandmetroparks.com or call 216-635-3200.
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Emerald Necklace, September 2011
Turn back the clocks and experience a simpler life at Cedar Valley Settlers Celebration & Music Festival Sunday, September 18 • 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. • Free! Frostville Museum & Rocky River Nature Center Rocky River Reservation • North Olmsted
Joy Kills Sorrow
Long before things were named Cleveland, North Olmsted or even Cleveland Metroparks, the early settlers were making Ohio their home. Visitors can relive yesteryear with the sights, sounds, tastes and smells of Ohio's frontier days with a cornucopia of pioneer crafts and life skills, storytelling, toe-tapping music and food sampling at Cedar Valley Settlers Celebration & Music Festival. Learn to weave a rug, dip candles, write with a quill pen, use a two-man saw, make yarn dolls, and much more! Characters in pioneer costumes and storytellers will also be on hand to share stories from a by-gone era. A mini-encampment of a pioneer camp is also a part of the festivities. Event-goers can also sample turkey cooked over an open fire; creamy, freshly churned butter; slow cooked, tart apple butter; fresh pressed cider; rich, flaky biscuits cooked in a Dutch oven, raise an 1860’s mini-barn, and more. The sounds of great folk and Americana music will be heard throughout the day, played by some of the area’s top musicians. Instrument-builders and ‘how-to-play’ areas will also be on the grounds for visitors to enjoy. The featured band is nationallyknown Joy Kills Sorrow at 4 p.m. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy the music all day!
On the Main Stage at 4 p.m. is Joy Kills Sorrow, pushing their brand new acoustic music right through the envelope and out the other side. The Boston-based stringband brings a decidedly modern sensibility to an old-world sound, channeling the prodigious talents of its individual members into elegant arrangements and wellcrafted songs. While the group pays due homage to its Bluegrass roots - its name is taken from WJKS, a radio station that broadcasted the Monroe brothers’ show in the 1930s - the band truly excels in its rich and textured treatment of more contemporary material. Boasting a full arsenal of original songs, Joy Kills Sorrow plumbs the entire spectrum of its spare instrumentation, effortlessly merging influences as diverse as folk, rock, pop, and jazz. The result is a radical new strain of folk music, one that bravely breaks with tradition even as it salutes the past.
Frostville Museum
is located off Cedar Point Road in Rocky River Reservation, between Valley Parkway and Columbia Road/Route 252 in North Olmsted - just off the I-480/ Clague Road exit (westbound) and I-480/Columbia Road exit (eastbound). Suggested parking: Rocky River Nature Center, Frostville Museum and Little Cedar Point, or park at Lagoon and bike over to Frostville! For more information, call 440-734-6660.
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Monarch Magic
Inside the Emerald Necklace
Saturday, September 10 Noon - 4 p.m. • Free! North Chagrin Nature Center North Chagrin Reservation Mayfield Village
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Something ‘magical’ is about to happen. Monarch butterflies will migrate south traveling over 3,000 miles from North America to central Mexico. Visitors can enjoy an area with live butterflies, activities, crafts, puppet shows, live music, refreshments, and more.
And, enjoy a presentation at 1:30 p.m. with Naturalist Deb Marcinski on Monarchs and More and two great movies at 12:20 p.m. Saving the Monarchs and 2:45 p.m. On the Wings of Monarchs. Enjoy monarch butterflies at Monarch Magic, before they magically disappear! For more information, call 440-473-3370.
North Chagrin Nature Center
is located off Buttermilk Falls Parkway, off the Sunset Lane entrance of North Chagrin Reservation, off SOM Center Road/Route 91 in Mayfield Village – south of the I-90/Rte. 91 exit.
Emerald Necklace, September 2011
FallFest 18th Century Festival
Sunday, September 25 • 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Meadows Picnic Area Brecksville Reservation • Brecksville • Free! Imagine no grocery store, no hardware store, and you not only have to make your own clothes, but you have to make your own fabric, too! You can witness beautiful things being made by hand, and try your own hand at candle making, quill pen writing, or pottery. Your family will marvel at the colonial magician, enjoy corn popped over an open fire, and hear old-time music, skillfully played, all in the great outdoors. This popular annual festival includes an encampment of a Brigade of the American Revolution – don’t miss the colorful uniforms and smell of gunpowder during their exciting skirmish! Your family won’t forget their FallFest experience. Food concessions and pony rides are available for a fee. Free shuttle bus service from 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. For more information, call 440-526-1012.
Meadows Picnic Area
is located off Meadows Drive in Brecksville Reservation off Chippewa Creek Drive in Brecksville.
Earn a 2011 Walking Works Shield
Branching Out
It’s not too late to take steps towards better health and explore new trails with Cleveland Metroparks Walking Works Program. Now through October, hike at least eight of 13 designated trails on your own – any time it’s fun and easy, and you can feel better while discovering the wonders of nature. This year take an easy hike in Bedford, Big Creek, Garfield Park, Huntington, Mill Stream Run and Rocky River reservations. Moderate walkers can hit the trails in Brookside, Hinckley, North Chagrin, Ohio & Erie Canal and South Chagrin reservations. Those looking for a difficult hike will appreciate the challenging Brecksville Reservation hike. After completing each walk, sign and date your Walking Works form. Complete eight walks and return your form to Cleveland Metroparks to receive this year’s Walking Works shield. Display your shield on your own walking stick or purchase a walking stick at any EarthWords Nature Shop. Want to walk with others while learning about the natural features of the trails? Naturalist-led hikes along the designated trails will be available June through October. Look for naturalist-led walks starting on page 23. For a list of the designated hikes and directions, and to download the Walking Works form check our website at www.clevelandmetroparks.com. Walking Works forms are also available at Cleveland Metroparks nature centers.
Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr., one of Cleveland Metroparks original planners, recognized the forested land that has become Cleveland Metroparks for its “beautiful, natural sylvan character…” in 1915. Today, approximately 150 tree species may be found throughout the more than 21,000 acres that comprise Cleveland Metroparks. The average life span for trees in urban areas is 32-37 years; therefore Cleveland Metroparks must have ongoing reforestation initiatives and recently established the Branching Out program. Branching Out supports reforestation now and in the future. Through a gift of $1800, donors have the opportunity to have a tree planted in the reservation or golf course of their choice and support future tree planting through the Emerald Necklace Endowment Fund of The Cleveland Foundation. Trees planted through the Branching Out program are native species, approximately 8’ in height. Plantings take place in spring and fall. Donors are notified of the location of the tree planted through their contribution. In addition to keeping Cleveland Metroparks green, Branching Out is also a meaningful way to make a living gift to remember a loved one, recognize a special event in someone’s life or honor a friend. All donors and those being honored receive ongoing recognition on Cleveland Metroparks website, as well as in the Emerald Necklace newsletter and Gift of Nature annual report. For more information on Branching Out or other ways you can support Cleveland Metroparks, contact Karen Kannenberg, CFRE, manager of gift and donor development, at 216-635-3217 or kjk@clevelandmetroparks.com.
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A Look Ahead Outdoor Odyssey
Saturday, October 8 • Noon - 4 p.m. • Free! Along the Ohio & Erie Canal Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation • Cuyahoga Hts.
Children and their families can explore the great outdoors at Cleveland Metroparks Outdoor Odyssey. Kids can try various outdoor recreational activities and demonstrations, including fishing skills, golfing skills, nature crafts, nature conservation and exploration, live animals and more! And, complete a “passport” by visiting the various activity stations to win a prize! For details, call 216-206-1010.
North Chagrin Nature Photography Weekend – Photography Show & Contest
Saturday & Sunday, October 15 & 16 • Free! North Chagrin Nature Center • North Chagrin Reservation Mayfield Village
Cleveland Metroparks offers some great landscapes and wildlife as perfect photographic models. Grab the camera, take some pictures and enter your nature photo in the North Chagrin Nature Photography Weekend Contest & Show which is part of the North Chagrin Nature Photography Weekend on Saturday, October 15 and Sunday, October 16 at North Chagrin Nature Center. Thanks to Dodd Camera, this year’s featured speaker is Sony artisan Andy Katz. Photography Contest application forms/rules are available online at www.clevelandmetroparks.com and at all Park District outdoor education facilities. For more information, call 216-635-3200 or 440-473-3370.
Aloha & Goodbye! The Big Kahuna’s Last Birthday Luau Saturday, November 5 • 6 - 9:30 p.m. • $40 per person Chalet Recreation Area • Mill Stream Run Reservation Strongsville
Join the Big Kahuna for his big luau birthday party - you never know when it may be the last party! Enjoy a great salad, dinner, dessert, some laughs and lots of intrigue as the Mystery Players entertain you with a dinner mystery. Assorted beverages and coffee are included. Guests can bring their own beer or wine. For information and reservations, call 440-572-9990.
Calling All Quilters: Reflections of Nature Quilt Show Applications Available
There’s still time to enter your nature-themed quilt in the annual Reflections of Nature Quilt Show held November 12 & 13 at Rocky River Nature Center. Pickup applications at any nature center or download an application online at www.clevelandmetroparks.com. For more information, call 216-635-3200.
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Emerald Necklace, September 2011
Ranger open house
Sunday, October 9 • Free! Ranger Headquarters Rocky River Reservation Fairview Park To recognize October as National Crime Prevention Month, Cleveland Metroparks Ranger Department is hosting a Community Open House. Visitors can enjoy demonstrations by the K-9 Unit, hear about the care and training given to the horses in the Mounted Unit, and get valuable bicycle safety tips from the Bike Patrol Rangers. Included in the day’s activities are tours of the Headquarters facility and a stroll down the history hall displaying vintage policerelated equipment and photographs. Enjoy a great afternoon at the Ranger Open House finding out about the law enforcement staff and their role protecting, serving and educating visitors of Cleveland Metroparks For more information on Open House, call Ranger Headquarters at 440-331-5530. Ranger Headquarters is located at 4600 Valley Parkway in Rocky River Reservation in Fairview Park.
Fall Hayrides at the Chalet Recreation Area Picture this….cool autumn air, beautiful fall colors in Cleveland Metroparks, enjoyed while riding on a haywagon. Enjoy Saturday night and Sunday afternoon in October with an old-fashioned hayride at the Chalet Recreation Area in Mill Stream Run Reservation. The festivities also include free square dancing fun most Saturday nights, and a variety of entertainment and activities on Sundays. The public, tractor-drawn hayrides are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, and leave approximately every half hour. The hayrides cost $7.50 for adults, $5.50 for children, ages 3 to 11, and free for children, 2 and under (must ride on an adult lap). Hayrides can be enjoyed: Saturday Nights October 8, 15, 22, and 29 • 6 - 10 p.m. and Sunday Afternoons October 9, 16, 23, and 30 • noon - 4 p.m.
Private Hayrides
Private hayrides can be enjoyed on October weekends for $145 per wagon. A limited number of private haywagon rides are available for groups on Saturdays and Sundays during the public hours. Visitors can also enjoy haywagon ‘dayrides’ on Friday, October 14 and 28 between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Wagons can be rented for these daytime outings such as preschool trips, senior and family picnics, or business get-aways at $85 per hayride. Private rental of the Chalet Recreation Area, including hayrides, is also available throughout October during non-public hours (call for details). Advanced reservations are required for group rides and rentals. Special Naturalist-led Tours Friday, October 28 • 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Why do the leaves change colors? What are the squirrels doing with all those nuts? Join a special naturalist-led tour for an interpretive hayride through the changing woods of autumn. Learn about some of the wild things that live there and how they spend autumn preparing for the winter.
Horse-Drawn Hayrides
Enjoy the clip-clop of special horse-drawn hayrides on Saturday, October 15 from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. or on Sunday, October 23 from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Horse-drawn hayrides are offered at $12 per person, and include a half-hour leisurely ride, hot cider/hot chocolate and a s’more kit that can be cooked on the fire. In addition, kids 12 and under receive a goody bag with a paid ticket. The horse-drawn hayrides are by reservation only, and space is limited.
For more information on any hayride or to make reservations for naturalist-led, private or horse-drawn hayrides, call 440-572-9990. The Chalet Recreation Area is located on Valley Parkway in Mill Stream Run Reservation, between Routes 42 and 82 in Strongsville – just a short distance from I-71 and the Ohio Turnpike. 11
‘Actual Factuals’ About African Elephant Crossing and the Animals Inside Lots of people in Northeast Ohio put salt licks in their yard to attract white-tailed deer, but we doubt their blocks of salt measure 4 feet high and 4 feet across! In the wild, elephants often use their tusks to dig for salt and other minerals, so we asked Cargill (the company that mines salt under Lake Erie) if they could find us a pachyderm-sized salt block. They came through and donated the biggest salt block we’ve ever seen! It’s buried in the Savanna Range, waiting for the elephants to find it. Joining females Moshi, Martika, Jo and Shenga in African Elephant Crossing is Willy, the first male elephant at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo since the 1960s. He stands 11-feet tall at the shoulder and weighs in the neighborhood of 13,000 pounds (that’s about the same as an adult killer whale!) Willy is the largest animal to ever live at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. He came from Disney’s Animal Kingdom in Florida.
Zoo News
An elephant’s trunk is an amazing tool, allowing the animal to wield an incredible amount of dexterity and flexibility. The elephant’s trunk contains 100,000 muscles and ligaments - it can be used to pick up something as small as a TicTac, or flip over a Volkswagen.
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Both male and female African elephants have tusks, which are actually modified teeth. The elephants use them for foraging, digging and peeling bark off trees. Elephants rely on their tusks so much that they actually develop a preference for one of them and become right- or left-tusked, just like a human is right- or left-handed. The number of African elephants is dwindling, both in the wild and in zoos. There are 223 accredited zoos in North America, only 42 of which have African elephants. In the wild, the population has declined from 1.5 million to just 300,000 in only 20 years. That’s about 100 elephants lost every day. Joe Yachanin Marketing & Public Relations Specialist
Thanks to The Lion King and Meerkat Manor, many people are familiar with meerkats. But did you know they are related to the mongoose and that a group of meerkats is called a mob? Naked mole rats are very unique among mammals, and we’re not just talking about the way they look. Mole rats are one of only two mammal species that exhibit hive behavior. Similar to ants or termites, only one female in the colony reproduces with one to three chosen males. The rest of the colony members are workers.
Fifth Third Bank is the proud sponsor of the inaugural season of African Elephant Crossing with support from Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital.
Emerald Necklace, September 2011
Photo Safari Now through November 1 Time is running out to submit your best shot in the Zoo’s annual amateur photography contest, Photo Safari. Through November 1, just take your best shot on Zoo grounds and submit it on photographic paper. Categories include Bird, Mammal, Plant/Insect, Amphibian/Reptile/ Fish, Friends/Family and new this year, a special African Elephant Crossing category. There’s also a junior category for kids ages 2-11. Every month we pick a “pic of the month” and post it on the Zoo’s blog, The Roar Report. Prizes will be awarded in each category and a “Best in Show” photo will be chosen. Prizes include Zoo memberships, Cleveland Metroparks golf passes, Discount Drug Mart gift cards and a behind the scenes Zoo tour. Entry forms are available in the Zoo’s Exhibit Hall or online at clemetzoo.com.
Professor Wylde’s Animal Show Now through September 25 Daily through Labor Day, weekends only following The Zoo’s Savanna Theater is the place to be for a fun and educational look at the wildlife and habitats of Africa. Join Professor Wylde and an all-star cast of critters for this live performance as the professor travels to Africa. Show times are 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Shows are daily through September 5, and weekends only after that through September 25. Free with regular Zoo admission. Professor Wylde’s Animal Show is supported by The Ohio Lottery and Cleveland Public Power.
Photo Safari is supported by Discount Drug Mart.
Teddy Bear Day
Boo at the Zoo
Saturday, September 24
Advance tickets now on sale
Visit clemetzoo.com for the full schedule.
Don’t miss out on the silly, spooky safari – Boo at the Zoo! Kids of all ages are invited to don costumes and enjoy this not-tooscary romp through the Zoo after dark with witches, clowns, magicians, music and more. There are chances to Get Close with animals, catch a creepy, crawly live animal show, dance at the Monster Mash party and receive a complimentary treat bag. Advance tickets for the 22nd annual family favorite are on sale now. Visit the Zoo’s website, clemetzoo. com, or call the Box Office at 216-661-6500 for details and prices.
Teddy Bear Day is presented by Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital with support from B.J.’s Wholesale Club.
Boo at the Zoo takes place from 6 - 9 p.m. October 20-23 and October 27-30.
Complimentary teddy bear check-ups are just part of the fun families can expect during Teddy Bear Day on Saturday, September 24. Kids (ages 2-11) who bring their favorite stuffed friend of any species receive free admission when accompanied by a paying adult. Plush pal doctors will give the exams and hand out “Beary” Good Health Certificates. There will be opportunites to meet the keepers to learn more about different bear species at the Zoo, a teddy bear parade, face painting and a dance party with Radio Disney.
Presented by Giant Eagle, with support from Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital and Radio Disney.
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Fall is Fantastic For Golf Fall Tour Tournament Series Couple’s Tournament Saturday, August 27 Shawnee Hills Golf Course • Bedford Reservation $60 per team (Optional dinner available)
Two-Player Scramble Saturday, October 1 Big Met Golf Course • Rocky River Reservation $100 per team
Barbour Cup Saturday, October 8 Sleepy Hollow Golf Course • Brecksville Reservation $170 per 2-person team (includes cart)
Three-Player Scramble Saturday, October 15 Manakiki Golf Course • North Chagrin Reservation $180 per team (includes cart)
Individual event entry forms may be downloaded from Cleveland Metroparks website at www.clevelandmetroparks.com. Click on golf and scroll down to tournament registrations and results.
Friday, September 23 • 7:30 p.m. Little Met Golf Course 216-941-9672
High School/Junior High Golfers “CAT” Tour (Grades 7 - 12) This three-event tour is open to junior high school golfers looking forward to competing on a high school golf team or high school golfers currently not playing for their school golf team. Top finishers qualify for the “CAT” Tour Championship, Sunday, October 2 at Big Met.
Regular “CAT” Tour events: Saturday, August 27 • 12:30 p.m. Seneca - 440-526-0043 Sunday, September 11 • 12:30 p.m. Manakiki - 440-942-2500 Sunday, September 18 • 1:30 p.m. Shawnee Hills - 440-232-7184 • Cost is $35 for grades 8 - 12 (18 holes) and $25 for grade 7 (9 holes) per event.
Golfers challenge their night vision and play nine holes with a “Nitelite” golf ball - it glows in the dark! This month, a shotgun start at 7:30 p.m. takes players into a night world of golf, with glowing golf balls, tees and greens. Registration is required, and space is limited. The fee is $20 per person. Players should plan on arriving 30 minutes before the listed start time.
Hey Golfers! Moonlight Golf continues on: Oct. 28 • Shawnee Hills Par 3 • 6:15 p.m Oct. 28 • Mastick Woods • 6:15 p.m
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Emerald Necklace, September 2011
Stay in touch through the On the Fairways email newsletter. Subscribe now and start receiving On the Fairways periodically from Cleveland Metroparks Golf featuring golf tips, special offers, news from the courses, and more! Register via email to: klf@clevelandmetroparks.com
Discover the Amazing Monarch
Butterflies look like gentle creatures as they float through the air, but they are also rugged world travelers. September marks the migration of monarch butterflies as they travel south to Mexico to avoid Ohio’s cold winters. Come into EarthWords Nature Shops and help us celebrate these beautiful winged travelers with informative books and an array of products featuring the beautiful monarch image. Monarch Slim Shoulder Bag Features image on both sides. 23” nylon-corded shoulder strap, zipper closure, full lining, interior pocket & washable surface. $10 Butterfly Mugs Enjoy the grace and elegance of a butterfly on these beautiful 4 1/2 “, 12 oz. mugs. $9
Monarch Magic by Lynn M. Rosenblatt Imagine a beautiful monarch butterfly weighing less than a dime and only a few weeks old - setting out on a journey of 2,500 miles, with no map, no directions, and no leader. Read all about this marvel of nature. $12.95
CanalWay Center Cuyahoga Heights 216-206-1003 North Chagrin Nature Center Mayfield Village 440-449-0511
EarthWords Offers T-Shirt Stamping at these September Events For only $5 and a little imagination, kids of all ages can create a unique fabric-painted T-shirt. Saturday, September 10: Sunday, September 18: Sunday, September 25:
Monarch Magic, North Chagrin Reservation Cedar Valley Settlers Celebration & Music Festival, Rocky River Reservation FallFest, Brecksville Reservation
SHIRT OF THE MONTH Think Outside! September’s Think Outside the Cocoon T-shirt features a freshly hatched monarch butterfly preparing for its maiden flight and beginning its new life. This comfortable shirt is a bluegrass color, direct dyed, 100% organic cotton, pre-shrunk, heavyweight tee. Top-quality silkscreen image. Designed and printed in the U.S.A. Available in adult sizes S-XXL. $18
Rocky River Nature Center North Olmsted 440-734-7576 Wednesday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 4:45 p.m. Sunday Noon - 4:45 p.m. Are you a member of Cleveland Zoological Society? Bring your membership card to receive 10% off non-sale merchandise every day! Subscribe to our free email newsletter to see new products and specials! Send an email to hjs@clevelandmetroparks.com, and type subscribe in the subject.
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Lake Erie Nature & Science Center
Fantastic Fall Classes and Programs for All Ages Join us for a variety of autumn programs that cater to all ages from parent and child programs (1 - 5 years), Nature Nuts preschool classes (3 - 5 years), Log Cabin Kindergarten classes (5 - 6 years), After School and Weekend Adventure Clubs for elementary ages and Junior Naturalist programs for middle schoolers. Call 440-871-2900 or log onto www.lensc.org for program and registration information. Adopt–A–Beach Family Focus on Lake Erie Sunday, September 25 • 1 - 3 p.m. Fee: $7/person; $35/family of 5 or more Connect to our Great Lake Erie! We’ll gather and submit data on beach weather, wave height and water quality to help improve the health of the Great Lakes. Program begins with a fun activity related to the lake and/or the local watershed and concludes with a hands-on clean up in the Huntington Beach area. For families with children ages 5 and up. Pre-registration required. Log Cabin Sampler: Amphibians Monday, September 26 • 9 - 11 a.m. OR 1 - 3 p.m. Fee: $30/child; members $20/child Children ages 4 – 6 can sample our ongoing Log Cabin Explorers Club through this themed, 2-hour program. Science experiments, live wildlife encounters, crafts and more help your child build important school skills while they have a blast in and around the Log Cabin classroom. Pre-registration required.
COMING SOON! Adult Enrichment Third Thursdays Make learning about nature a lifelong pursuit! Start saving the third Thursday evening of each month to enrich your life with distinguished speakers, workshops and programs on fascinating nature and science topics. Each month will feature a naturalist, artist, scientist, birder or other special guest. Look for details on our website or sign up for our email news. “Discover Our Great Lake” at Lake Erie Nature & Science Center’s Annual Benefit & Auction Saturday, September 10 Sail into a casual, Erie-inspired evening and enjoy seaworthy food and drink, listen to waves of live music, bid on a boatload of incredible auction items, and compete to reel in fabulous raffle prizes. Support our nonprofit mission! Hook your tickets today at our Welcome Desk or at www.lensc.org using our online donation form. Click on Donate/Donate Online and scroll down to Annual Benefit Reservations. For more information or to get involved, call 440-871-2900.
Walter R. Schuele Planetarium Family Programs* Twinkle Tots Thursdays & Saturdays • 11 a.m. Fee: $1/person (including infants) This is a program for the toddler in your family. Watch lights dance across the sky, see some magic and learn what’s new in space. This program is fun for just about everyone in the family! Stellar Stars Wednesdays • 11 a.m. & Saturdays • noon Fee: $2/child Grab your passports, blast off to a new planet and find a different picture in the stars each week. Watch lasers moving to music, take home a planet picture to color and add a sticker to your passport. Great for children 2 years and up!
Monthly SkyQuest: Harvest Moons Saturdays, September 3, 10, 17 & 24 • 1:30 p.m. Saturdays, September 3 & 17 • 8 p.m. Fee: $3/person As the Harvest Moon shines down on us this month, take a look at other moons in our solar system. On some we’ve found active volcanoes and on one it rains! We’ll also say good-bye to the summer constellations and welcome those in the fall sky. This longer, in-depth program is recommended for ages 7 and up. *Planetarium seating is first-come, first-served. Door closes promptly and no one will be admitted after posted program start time.
Lake Erie Nature & Science Center Located at 28728 Wolf Road in Bay Village | 440-871-2900 | www.lensc.org Lake Erie Nature & Science Center is an independent nonprofit affiliate of Cleveland Metroparks
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Emerald Necklace, September 2011
Programs are inclusive for all abilities
Institute of The Great Outdoors
The IGO Mission: To provide nature-based outdoor recreational experiences and classes that enable participants of all abilities to connect with nature.
Inclusive Outdoor Recreation Opportunities: All IGO programs have been evaluated regarding accessibility and activity level. With our professionally trained staff and ability to make equipment adaptations, most programs are accessible to anyone who would like to participate. For further information regarding program accessibility, or to schedule an accessible custom program, please contact IGO at 216-341-1704.
Program Registration:
Programs are filled on a first-come, first-served basis, so register early to get a spot. By Phone: Call 216-341-1704 Monday - Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Have your MasterCard, Visa or DiscoverCard number ready. In-person: Stop by Garfield Park Nature Center located in Garfield Heights; Monday - Friday between 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. By mail / fax: Complete a registration form and send it to the IGO office. Cleveland Metroparks Institute of the Great Outdoors 11350 Broadway Avenue Garfield Heights, OH 44125 216-341-1704 / 216-341-8528 fax igo@clevelandmetroparks.com On line: Registration forms are available for printing by visiting www.clevelandmetroparks.com.
General Information: • • • •
For programs with more than one session, please specify your choice when registering. A program reminder and location map will be mailed prior to the first program session. By registering, you acknowledge that you have read and understand the refund policy. Participants must complete and sign a liability waiver and medical emergency form prior to participation in any program. • IGO programs are listed bi-monthly in the January, March, May, July, September and November issues of the Emerald Necklace. For more information call 216-341-1704 or visit www.clevelandmetroparks.com.
Registration & Refund Policy: • A 25% non-refundable deposit is required at time of registration for all Escape to Nature programs. Balance is due no less than two months before the pre-trip meeting. • For all other programs, fees must be paid in full upon registration. Your payment confirms that you are registered for the program. Registration should be made no less than two weeks before a course begins, so please register early. Program fees recover the direct program costs. • Program fees and deposits are not refundable unless Cleveland Metroparks finds it necessary to cancel a program. 17
Institute of The Great Outdoors
Programs are inclusive for all abilities
CANOEING, KAYAKING & MORE
All boating programs are funded in part through a grant from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Watercraft.
Kayaking I: Introduction to Kayaking
This entry-level course combines classroom and on-the-water practice to introduce you to equipment, basic paddling strokes and more. Sessions include all necessary kayaking equipment and participants should be prepared to get wet while practicing wet exits. Activity Level: easy Ages: 16 years & over (with participating adult) Dates/Times: October 13 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. Baldwin-Wallace College Fee: $30 (includes boats & equipment)
Standup Paddleboarding Introduction
Take off from work early to have fun learning standup paddleboarding (SUP). Lessons are fun and will teach you how easy it is to balance and maneuver on a board that looks like a surfboard. Anticipate spending some time in the water so participants must be able to tread water in a PFD. Activity Level: easy Ages: adults Dates/Times: September 16 or 23 4:30 - 6 p.m. Wendy Park Fee: $15
Kayaking II: Flat-water Fundamentals
Combine Kayaking I and 1.5 in one day. Learn basics skills and padding strokes. Have fun practicing boat exits and rescue techniques in a safe environment. Bring clothing to get wet in. Activity Level: easy Ages: 16 years & over (with participating adult) Date/Time: September 11 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Hinckley Reservation Fee: $55 (includes boats & equipment)
Paddle Ohio
Explore the beautiful Ohio landscape by water this fall. Naturalists and IGO staff will take you to various waterways to broaden your knowledge while enjoying a relaxing time on the water. Previous paddling experience is recommended for night floats. Activity Level: easy Ages: 16 years & up (with participating adult) Full Moon Float (Upper Cuyahoga River) September 10 • call for times Kayak Cleveland (Cuyahoga River) October 8 • 3 - 6 p.m. (for experienced paddlers) Canoe the Upper Cuyahoga River October 15 • 1 - 4 p.m. Canoe LaDue October 16 • 1 - 4 p.m. Fee: $20
Reel Paddling Film Festival
October 7 • 7:30 - 10:30 p.m. • Rocky River Nature Center Advanced Tickets: $10 • Night of show: $15 The International Reel Paddling Film Festival tour is back! Enjoy an evening watching some of the best water oriented films in the world. See epic sea kayaking journeys, whitewater kayaking, canoeing and more. We’ve selected the best films to watch; full of action, scenic journeys and great stories. Call IGO at 216-341-1704 for a list of films and reserve your tickets now. 18 18
Emerald 2011 2011 EmeraldNecklace, Necklace,July September
Programs are inclusive for all abilities
Institute of The Great Outdoors
OUTDOOR RECREATION SKILLS Backpacking Basics
Backpacking is a great way to reconnect with nature. Learn the basics to having a safe and enjoyable backcountry experience. Our knowledgeable staff will cover important topics such as tents, backpacks, water treatment and outdoor ethics. Ages: 16 years & older (with participating adult) Dates/Times: September 29 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. Intergrove Cabin North Chagrin Reservation OR October 18 • 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. Garfield Park Nature Center Fee: $10
Steelhead Fly Fishing Basics
Fishing for steelhead trout can be both fun and challenging. This class is designed to give you basic information on gear, good fishing locations, and casting techniques that will make you a better fisherman. Rods will be provided, but participants should bring their own waders to practice in-stream casting. Activity Level: easy Ages: adults Dates/Times: October 15 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. OR October 22 • 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Rocky River Nature Center Fee: $30
How to Survive Just About Anything
With proper planning and the right kit, you stand a greater chance of surviving snowstorms, tornadoes, floods and other disasters. Get the resources to begin making your own disaster kits for home and on the road and have fun practicing fire starting techniques (without matches). We’ll even throw in tips for pet disaster kits! Ages: adults Date/Time: November 9 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. Garfield Park Nature Center Fee: $10
CAMPING/ BACKPACKING Backpack - Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, Part II
We tackled the southern section earlier this year, now come explore the hilly northern section of the West Rim Trail. The dramatic gorge views, waterfalls and lush forests are considered to be one of the most scenic areas in Pennsylvania. We will be hiking a large section of this linear trail with mileage varying each day – the longest day will be roughly nine miles. Activity Level: moderate (hilly, intermediate backpackers) Ages: adults Pre-trips: September 15 & 28 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Garfield Park Nature Center Trip: October 8 - 10 Fee: $85 (includes permits, shuttles, camping gear)
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Institute of The Great Outdoors
Programs are inclusive for all abilities
ADAPTIVE OUTDOOR RECREATION Kayaking I
Adaptive Fishing for Kids
Designed specifically for individuals with disabilities, both adults and children can enjoy learning to kayak. This entry level course will teach the basics for paddling safely on inland lakes and rivers. Bring clothing to get wet in. Activity Level: easy Ages: 10 years & up (with participating adult) Date/Time: October 20 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. Baldwin-Wallace College Fee: $30 (includes boat and equipment)
Children with disabilities can enjoy a day of fishing and learning new skills. Learn basic casting skills and fishing knots while trying to catch some fish. Activity Level: easy Ages: 5 - 15 years Date/Time: October 1 4 – 7 p.m. Wallace Lake Fee: $8
CYCLING/ADVENTURE Multi-sport Adventure Days
Ever wanted to get your feet wet in the world of adventure racing, trail running or off-road dualathlons? Join us for multi-sport days on the rail and water. We’ll focus on skills and endurance needed for mountain biking, paddling and trail running. Equipment will be provided for paddling sessions, but participants will be required to bring their own mountain bike and helmet (required), as well as running gear. Activity Level: moderate to strenuous Ages: adults Date/Time: September 18 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. (Paddle/Run/Bike) Fee: $45 Dates/Times: October 29 • 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. (Run/ Bike) November 12 • 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. (Run/Bike) Fee: $30 Westbranch State Park 20 20
Pedal & Paddle Day
Discover the history and natural wonders of the Cuyahoga River, south of Kent, by bike and kayak. We will meet with our bikes at Waterworks Park in Cuyahoga Falls and peddle 6.7 miles to Tannery Park in Kent for lunch. After lunch, we will kayak 5 miles back to our cars. Prior cycling and kayaking experience is preferred. Helmets are required. Activity Level: moderate Ages: 16 years & up (with participating adult) Date/Time: September 17 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Fee: $55 (includes kayaks and equipment, lunch and bike shuttle) Rental bikes $10
Emerald 2011 2011 EmeraldNecklace, Necklace,July September
Programs are inclusive for all abilities
Institute of The Great Outdoors
Escapes to Nature Hocking Hills Adventure Weekend
Spend your weekend with us on this popular camping getaway to the Hocking River. The weekend will be filled with kayaking, canoeing and a 3-hour treetop adventure. Visit Hocking Hills as professional guides lead us along 10 ziplines and five adventure sky bridges offering a never-before-seen perspective of the area. Registration deadline is September 6. Activity Level: moderate Ages: adults Pre-Trip: September 14 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Garfield Park Nature Center Trip: September 22 - 25 Logan, OH Fee: $310 (includes camping & paddling gear, transportation, campground & tour fees)
Golfing With Nature
Enjoy a week-long getaway to Charleston, South Carolina this fall. This 6-night, 5-day excursion will be filled with three days of golf at various courses, kayaking, historical tours of Charleston, a behind-the-scenes visit to the South Carolina Aquarium sea turtle hospital and more. We’ll stay on Mt. Pleasant and be shuttled around Charleston while enjoying the natural beauty and history that makes this southern town special. Pre-trip meetings will include kayaking and 9 holes of golf. Registration deadline is September 8. Activity Level: easy Ages: adults Pre-trips: September 24 1 - 4 p.m. Hinckley Reservation and October 15 • noon – 3 p.m. Big Met Golf Course Trip Date: October 23 - 29 Fee: $1,100 (includes hotel, 3 rounds of golf, carts, shuttle service, breakfast, activity fees and expert guide service)
Migration Sensation
Join Jen Brumfield for a daylong adventure designed with shorebirds and warblers in mind. During fall, Ohio’s woodlands, wetlands, and beaches provide vital habitat for migrating warblers, vireos, flycatchers, sandpipers and more. We’ll seek out frenzied mixed flocks of warblers and other passerines along with shorebirds bustling along beaches and mudflats, all while raptors are migrating overhead. September is the month to witness the full specturm of fall migrant action. Activity Level: easy Ages: adults Trip Date: September 8 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. Fee: $55 (includes lunch and transportation - meet at Rocky River Nature Center)
Jackson Bog: An Ohio Endangered Ecosystem
When is a bog not a bog? Join Naturalist Tim Krynak on a tour to Jackson Bog State Nature Preserve in Stark County. This unique fen is full of unique plant life and is a result of natural events that occurred more than a million years ago. Your tour will include a walk through the fen to discover how the Wisconsinian glacier created this diverse area, and why many of the plants are found here and not throughout Ohio. Activity Level: easy Ages: adults Trip Date: September 15 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Fee: $45 (includes lunch and transportation)
South Carolina Aquarium Sea Turtle Hospital
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September Events by Location Off-site Programs
2 • Urban Explorations: Natural Flats 7 • Urban Explorations: Ohio City Walking Tour 12 • Urban Explorations: Burke Lakefront Airport 29 • Urban Explorations: Kingsbury Run… and Walk
(BeR) Bedford Reservation
11 • Woodlands of Bedford: Floodplain Forest 17 • Brunch in the Park 30 • Escape on the Underground Railroad Educators Only Night
(BCR) Big Creek Reservation
22 • Around the Emerald Necklace Hike
(BNC) Brecksville Nature Center Open daily 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Rt. 82 entrance, Brecksville 440-526-1012 7 • 14 • Animal Crackers 11 • Gorge-ous Hike 13 • Hidden Story Hike 17 • Migrating Monarchs
(BrR) Brecksville Reservation
25 • FallFest: 18th Century Festival
(BWR) Bradley Woods Reservation
8 • Around the Emerald Necklace Hike
(CWC) CanalWay Center
Open daily 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Off E. 49th St., Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation Cuyahoga Hts., 216-206-1000 EarthWords Nature Shop Open Wed. - Sat. 10 a.m. - 4:45 p.m. Sun. noon - 4:45 p.m. 216-206-1003 1 - 30 • CanalWay Photo Display 1 - 30 • Hunt of the Month 9 • 17 • CanalWay Cart Tours - Southern Route 9 • Chimney Swift: Dusk Dance 12 • Hike the Canal Series 13 • Hidden Valley Homeschoolers: Back to School! 14 • Youth Outdoors Volunteer Orientation 16 • CanalWay Campfire 17 • Living History: Mayor Tom Johnson 18 • Bike - Train - Bike! 21 • History & A Brown Bag Lunch 23 • Preschool: Trees 23 • 24 • CanalWay Cart Tours - Northern Route 23 • CanalWay CoffeeHouse 24 • Acoustic Players Circle Cleveland Astronomical Society 1 • Monthly Meeting
(ECR) Euclid Creek Reservation 3 • Cool Creek Critters
Group Programming
For information on group programs, call any Cleveland Metroparks nature or visitor center.
Outdoor Adventures With IGO
The Institute of the Great Outdoors (IGO) offers year-round courses in canoeing, backpacking and more, plus Escapes to Nature throughout the U.S. and Canada. For details, visit www.clevelandmetroparks.com.
Each month, look for the
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(GPNC) Garfield Park Nature Center
Open daily 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Broadway Ave. or Turney Rd. entrance Garfield Heights 216-341-3152 7 • Walking Works Hike - Mill Creek Falls 10 • Swift Night Hike 11 • Gyotaku Fish Prints 24 • Fall Greetings 25 • Walking Club
(GPR) Garfield Park Reservation 10 • Garden Tea Party
(HiR) Hinckley Reservation
2 • For Women Only 10 • 11 • 24 • 25 • Voyageur Canoe Paddle 10 • American Red Cross Babysitter’s Training 18 • Sunrise Pontoon Float
(HuR) Huntington Reservation
11 • Walking Works: Huntington Reservation 20 • Adopt-A-Beach 24 • Breakfast in the Park 29 • Bird or Bust: Migration Highway (LENSC) Lake Erie Nature & Science Center Open daily 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. 28728 Wolf Road, Huntington Reservation, Bay Village 440-871-2900 2 • Animals A La Mode 17 • Meet An Animal: Peregrine Falcon 24 • Meet An Animal: The Striped Skunk
(MSRR) Mill Stream Run Reservation
4 • 11 • 18 • Bird Banding: Migrating Wonders 20 • Hiking for the Young at Heart
(NCR) North Chagrin Reservation
2 • Outdoor Friday Movie Night 4 • Unexplored North Chagrin Reservation 18 • Flower Fuel for Flight 23 • Outdoor Education for Homeschoolers: Under Ohio 24 • Cub Scout Saturday: Forester 24 • Autumn Hayrides 30 • Family Friday Night: Folktales Campfire
(NCNC) North Chagrin Nature Center
Open daily 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Mayfield Village 440-473-3370 EarthWords Nature Shop Open Wed. - Sat. 10 a.m. - 4:45 p.m., Sun. noon - 4:45 p.m. 440-449-0511 3 • Families Explore: Under Ohio 4 • Sunday Bird Walk 7 • Mid-Week After Work Hike 9 • Family Friday Night: A Swift’s Night Out! 10 • Monarch Magic 11 • Hike the Hemlock Trail 12 • Full Moon Hike 17 • Dog Walk 20 • Stroller Science 21 • Trail Trackers: Moths and Butterflies 23 • Family Friday Night: A Leaf Lesson 25 • Goldenrods and Asters Cleveland Metroparks Photography Club East 19 • Monthly Meeting
(RRR) Rocky River Reservation
6 • 27 • 28 • Monarch Tagging 21 • Walking Works Hike 24 • American Red Cross Pet First Aid 25 • Tour de Necklace - Rocky River Reservation 29 • Hiking for Your Health
(RRNC) Rocky River Nature Center
Open daily 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., 24000 Valley Parkway, North Olmsted 44070 440-734-6660 EarthWords Nature Shop Open Wed. - Sat. 10 a.m. - 4:45 p.m. Sun. noon - 4:45 p.m. 440-734-7576 1 - 30 • Gallery Wall 4 • Late Bloomers 4 • Fall Book Review 8 • Homeschool Happenings 10 • Monthly Morning With the Birds 10 • 18 • 25 • Bird Banding at Rocky River Nature Center 10 • Create Art in Nature 10 • Second Saturday Storytelling 11 • Fibonacci Numbers in Nature 14 • Rain Barrel Workshop 15 • Inviting the Planet to Dinner 18 • Cedar Valley Settlers Celebration & Music Festival 25 • School of the Wilds: Mushrooms 28 • 29 • Little Explorers: Dragonflies Trout Unlimited 6 • Monthly Meeting Western Cuyahoga Audubon Society 6 • Monthly Meeting Cuyahoga Astronomical Society 12 • Monthly Meeting Greater Cleveland Beekeepers Association 14 • Monthly Meeting Northeast Ohio Association of Herpetologists 19 • Monthly Meeting Cleveland Metroparks Southwest Camera Club 19 • Monthly Meeting
(SCR) South Chagrin Reservation Look About Lodge
Open for scheduled programs. Miles Rd., east of Rt. 91, Bentleyville 440-247-7075 4 • The Lodge is Open 8 • Preschool Green Time 10 • Celebrate the Here and Now Hike 10 • Bad Nature Movie 17 • Forests of Cleveland Metroparks: Hemlock Ravine 18 • Nature 101: Pollinators 24 • Ferns & Fungi in our Forest 24 • An Artful Autumn Afternoon Cleveland Natural Science Club 17 • Monthly Meeting
(WCR) West Creek Reservation
NOTE: W. Ridgewood Road entrance is closed - programs will meet at Center Park, on Park Dr. off of State Rd./94
20 • Ridges & Fields of West Creek
(OECR) Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation 22 • Bike the Ohio & Erie Canal
Cleveland Metroparks is celebrating the Year of the Forest. symbol next to Cleveland Metroparks special Year of the Forest related programs and events
Emerald Necklace, September 2011
September Events Calendar
Cleveland Metroparks Maps
Visit clevelandmetroparks.com for maps of Cleveland Metroparks 16 reservations. Or, call 216-635-3200 and request a Pathfinder Map & Guide.
1 • Thursday
2 • Friday
CanalWay Photo Display In celebration of Year of the Forest, we are featuring Cleveland Metroparks very own nationally known nature photographer/naturalist Dave Dvorak. His exquisite photo gallery will highlight trees and leaves of Cleveland Metroparks. Fall colors will delight the eye and strike your sense of wonder. Through September 30. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. CWC
Urban Explorations: Natural Flats Spend an enjoyable morning hiking with Cultural History Interpreter Doug Kusak in the Flats. We will bridge the gap between local history and nature making a comeback to the area. 10 a.m. - noon Age: 8 years - adults Terrain: city streets, 2 miles Registration required 3 • Saturday 216-206-1000
Hunt of the Month The tree leaves are starting to change colors. There are 20 leaves to be found in CanalWay Center. Stop by and see if you can find all our colorful leaves. Through September 30. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. CWC Gallery Wall View the artistic creations of Look About Lodge Naturalist Stefanie Verish on the Gallery Wall through September 30. Stefanie is an accomplished painter and writer. Her artwork is used throughout Cleveland Metroparks. 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. RRNC Cleveland Astronomical Society Guest speaker Dr. George E. Collins II will present The Millennium Star or the History of the Crab Nebulae. 8 p.m. CWC
For Women Only Come join other women for exercise and camaraderie as we recharge after a busy week. Let nature re-energize you as we hike through Hinckley’s spectacular Whipp’s Ledges. Bring a friend! 10 a.m. - noon HiR Top O’Ledges Picnic Area Ages: adult women Terrain: rocky, difficult, 2.5 - 3.5 miles 440-526-1012
Outdoor Friday Movie Night Tonight’s feature is Furry Vengeance (rated PG) starring Brendan Fraser. Enjoy the antics of the wildlife as they fight “eco”-developers to save their habitats. Bring a chair or blanket to sit on. Popcorn will be served. 8 - 9:45 p.m. NCR River Grove Oak Picnic Shelter Ages: families
Cool Creek Critters Provided the water level is low, we’ll hike along the creek to look for the wildlife that live in and around the creek. If the water level is high, we’ll hike along the trail. 10 - 11:30 a.m. ECR Highland Picnic Area parking lot Terrain: gravel bottom, uneven, 1.5 miles 440-473-3370
Families Explore: Under Ohio Have you ever wondered why Ohio looks the way it does? Or why certain plants and animals live here? The answers are in the rocks. We’ll dig deep to uncover the stories that lie in the rocks and how they affect our daily lives. 1 - 2:30 p.m. NCNC Terrain: easy, level, 1 mile
4 • Sunday Bird Banding: Migrating Wonders Migrants, flycatchers and warblers! Which birds migrate through Cleveland Metroparks? Get an up-close look as we band and study these migrating gems. Program cancelled during rain. Drop in between hours below. Sunrise to 11 a.m. MSRR Eastland Road and Valley Parkway (follow signs) 440-734-6660
Animals A La Mode Live animals (and maybe YOU) take center stage in this upbeat, interactive and educational show, capped off with a serving of delicious ice cream! Program lasts about 30 minutes. 6:30 p.m. LENSC Fee: $5/person (children 1 year & under free) Registration required 440-871-2900
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Sunday Bird Walk Migration is underway as the first wave of song birds begin to pass though Ohio. Join us as we search for these migrants and any other birds we may find. Some binoculars will be available to borrow. 8 - 10 a.m. NCNC Ages: adults & teens Terrain: easy, 2 miles
Fall Book Review Join Naturalist Joni Norris and the Rocky River Readers to review Joanna Greenfield’s book, The Lion’s Eye. Ms. Greenfield provides the reader a new way to see the African wilderness. Listeners are always welcome. 2 - 4 p.m. RRNC Ages: adults
The Lodge is Open Drop by Look About Lodge and enjoy it’s beauty and peacefulness. Your stay can be short or long. The welcome will be warm. Noon - 3 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge
6 • Tuesday Monarch Tagging Join Naturalist Min Keung to learn about these beautiful winged creatures. We will also learn how to tag monarch butterflies. In case of rain, program will be cancelled. 2 - 3 p.m. RRR Lewis Road Riding Ring parking lot Terrain: grassy, possible mud 440-734-6660
Late Bloomers The end of summer brings with it some of the season’s loveliest wildflowers. Join Naturalist Bethany Majeski as we hunt for cardinal flower, asters, goldenrods, and more. 1 - 2:30 p.m. RRNC Trout Unlimited Ages: adults Streamer flies are a good Terrain: 1.5 miles, flat, some start to catching bigger fish. stairs Learn more from tonight’s on-screen sreamer fly tying Unexplored North demonstration. Sign up for Chagrin Reservation fall outings, meet the new Join Naturalist Tim Krynak Chapter president and learn for this off-trail exploration about our mission. There of the northern portion of also will be a short meeting the reservation. We will hike with a by-laws update. a tributary to the Chagrin 7 - 9 p.m. RRNC River searching for salamanders and other creatures livWestern Cuyahoga ing under rocks and logs. Audubon Society 1 - 3 p.m. NCR In the Footsteps of Roger Whispering Woods Tory Peterson – Birding Newparking lot foundland. In 1953 Roger Ages: adults & teens Tory Peterson and James Terrain: off-trail, difficult, Fisher left Cape St. Mary in 3 miles Newfoundland for a yearlong birding journey. Casey Tucker, founder/director of the American Avian Conservation Association, examines Cape St. Mary’s Eco-Reserve and its wildlife 50 years later. 7:30 - 9 p.m. RRNC
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Emerald Necklace, September 2011
7 • Wednesday Animal Crackers We’ll kick off this “Animal Crackers” school year with a celebration to honor Monarch butterflies. But remember, your preschooler will use clues from the mystery bag to discover this month’s topic. 10 - 11:15 a.m. BNC Ages: 3 - 5 years with adult, no siblings Register beginning September 1 440-526-1012 Urban Explorations: Ohio City Walking Tour Join Volunteers Mike and Louise McCormick on a walk through Ohio City. So much history abounds in this area. Learn about the famous “Bridge Wars.” Enjoy the sites and learn about the neighborhood where the West Side Market stands. Details will be sent in confirmation letter. 10 - 11:30 a.m. Ages: adults Terrain: city streets, 1.5 miles Register beginning September 1 216-206-1000 Walking Works Hike Mill Creek Falls Join us for this naturalistled hike to the awesome Mill Creek Falls. Mill Creek Falls has played an important part in our local history. Come and learn about Cuyahoga County’s highest waterfall. This hike counts toward your Walking Works shield. 10 – 11:30 a.m. GPNC Terrain: mostly flat, paved 2.5 miles
Mid-Week After Work Hike Today we will be trekking the Wildlife Management, Buttermilk Falls, and Hickory Fox trails. We will follow the water that feeds into Buttermilk Falls, see what’s happening in the fields and meadows, and follow the ravine’s edge that provides a wonderful view of the falls. 5:30 - 7 p.m. NCNC Terrain: paved, dirt trails, muddy, 2.5 - 3 miles
8 • Thursday Preschool Green Time Preschoolers will love coming to Look About Lodge for this two-part nature program (part 2 is Sept. 15.) This month we’ll observe nature through a camera’s lens. Kids can bring their own camera, or we’ll have some to share. The Lodge will open 30 minutes before the program for “floor time.” 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. or 1 - 2 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Age: 3 years - pre-K & adult Register by e-mail: LALreg@ clevelandmetroparks.com Homeschool Happenings Homeschool students and parents are invited to a special work session to get ready for the Cedar Valley Settlers Celebration & Music Festival on September 18. Preparations for this pioneer festival include making scarecrows, winding yarn for pioneer toys, making cornshocks, and more. We need your helping hands! 1:30 - 3 p.m. RRNC Ages: 6 - 12 years with adult Registration required 440-734-6660
Around the Emerald Necklace Hike Cleveland Metroparks naturalists are eager to share their favorite trails around the Emerald Necklace. Hikes rotate throughout most Cleveland Metroparks reservations. This hike gives you a closer look at the swamp forest of Bradley Woods, a unique wooded habitat with hidden stories to tell. 2 - 3:30 p.m. BWR Codrington Picnic Area 440-734-6660
9 • Friday CanalWay Cart Tours – Southern Route For those who have been on our northern tour and want to see more of the reservation, this cart tour takes you south along the towpath. We will focus on the natural and cultural history of the area. Each tour accommodates seven passengers. 10:30 a.m. or noon CWC Register beginning September 1 216- 206-1000 Chimney Swift: Dusk Dance As the sun begins to set, the chimney swifts gather in a large flock in the sky. Join us in observing the dazzling show as they funnel down into a roost for the night. Bring binoculars and a lawn chair if you wish. 7 - 8 p.m. CWC Register beginning September 1 216-206-1000
Family Friday Night: A Swift’s Night Out! Tonight, we’ll celebrate chimney swifts! Witness an extraordinary display of these fascinating neotropical migrants swirling around in massive numbers only to drop into a chimney one by one to roost for the night. We will meet at the nature center, and then drive to the roosting site. Binoculars recommended. 7 - 8:45 p.m. NCNC Ages: families
our feathered friends. Program will be cancelled during rain. Drop in any time between the hours below. 9:30 a.m. - noon RRNC 440-734-6660
Create Art in Nature Express your creative side. With nature as our inspiration, we will create works of art based on the sights of the season. No artistic experience necessary; supplies are provided. Dress for the weather, program both indoors and outdoors. 10 • Saturday 10 a.m. - noon or 1 - 3 p.m. RRNC Monthly Morning Ages: 12 years - adult With the Birds Search for autumn migrants Register by September 7 and year round resident birds 440-247-7075 or LALreg@ as we walk along wetlands clevelandmetroparks.com and through forest and field Voyageur Canoe Paddle on this bird walk with NatuJoin Cleveland Metroparks ralist David Dvorak. French Canadian voyageurs 9 a.m.- noon RRNC for an hour-long paddle. This Terrain: level, 2 miles living history program gives you a chance to paddle a 34American Red Cross foot canoe, sing, and hear Babysitter’s Trianing Gain skills needed to care for tales and adventures of fur children and infants. Through trade men of long ago. hands-on activities, videos, 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m., and discussions, students will and 3:30 p.m. HiR learn CPR and First Aid, how Hinckley Lake Boathouse to handle emergencies such Ages: individuals, families, as injuries, illnesses and ac- groups cidents, make good decisions Fee: $5 and solve problems and write Registration required resumes and interview for 216-206-1000 jobs. Garden Tea Party 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. HiR Ledge Pool & Recreation Area Do you like to get dressed up, sip tea and munch cookies in Ages: 11 - 15 years a garden? Throughout hisFee: $65 ($45 Ledge Pool tory people gathered at parks season pass holder) for picnics and teas to enjoy Register by September 7 the parks and each other’s 440-331-8111 company. Each person will Bird Banding at go home with a teacup as a Rocky River Nature Center keepsake. Better than binoculars, you 1 - 2:30 p.m. GPR will see intricate details of Mill Creek Falls birds as we capture and band Ages: adults, children 5 years birds from the feeder. Learn & over with adult about bird banding, an es- Fee: $7.50 sential tool for learning about Registration required 216-341-3152
Celebrate the Here and Now Hike Let’s take an adventurous hike through South Chagrin and appreciate the beauty of the ravines and forest we have here. We’ll finish up with a seasonal campfire snack to appreciate the season upon us now. 2:30 – 5:30 p.m. SCR Squaw Rock Picnic Area Terrain: challenging, 3 miles Register by September 8 440-247-7075 or LALreg@ clevelandmetroparks.com Swift Night Hike Gather around the fire for s’mores after enjoying a hike full of fun. Play games, listen to the sounds of evening in the forest and if we are lucky, we will see the fast flying swifts catch insects in flight. 5:30 - 7 p.m. GPNC Bad Nature Movie We don’t want to say that the movie is bad, but Hollywood doesn’t always get the nature in a movie correct. Tonight we’ll show Frogs (rated PG) and get a laugh while sorting out what’s good biology and what’s movie fun. 7 - 9 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Second Saturday Storytelling Stor yteller/stor ytelling teacher and cable t.v. show host Donna Marie Kuczinski shares her unique take on traditional tales. She’ll bring a couple of her youthful storytelling students to share a tale with you as well. You can tell your own story at our “swap” following refreshments. 7:30 - 9 p.m. RRNC Monarch Magic (see page 8 for details)
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11 • Sunday Walking Works: Huntington Reservation Get some early morning exercise and hike the lovely Hemlock Trail of Huntington Reservation with Naturalist Bethany Majeski. We’ll search for migrating birds along the way. 8 – 9 a.m. HuR Wolf Picnic Area Terrain: 1 mile, mostly flat with some hills Hike the Hemlock Trail Stroll along a hemlock lined ravine and get a glimpse of what forests are like in more northern regions. Find out why hemlocks thrive in ravines and what threatens their future while working towards your Walking Works shield. 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. NCNC Terrain: moderate, hills 3.5 - 4 miles Woodlands of Bedford: Floodplain Forest Join Volunteer Naturalist Fred Losi on an exploration of the lowlands of Bedford Reservation to discover many trees that favor floodplains, such as sycamore and cottonwood. Bring snacks to sustain you on this late summer jaunt as well as a camera to record your memories. 1 - 4 p.m. BeR Circle Emerald Field Terrain: rugged, moderate, hilly 216-341-3152
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Gyotaku Fish Prints Join Naturalist Beth Whiteley to look at examples of Japanese Gyotaku fish prints. Learn the history behind these beautiful prints while we try creating some prints of our own. Plan on getting messy as we experience the process of this historic art form. 2 - 3:30 p.m. GPNC Ages: adults, 10 years & up with adult Registration required 216-341-3152 Fibonacci Numbers in Nature The Fibonacci sequence of numbers is found in many places, including the natural growth of plants and animals. Join Naturalist Kathy Schmidt for this indoor/ outdoor program and hike to discover some of nature’s amazing patterns. 2 – 4 p.m. RRNC Ages: adults Terrain: flat, 1 mile Gorge-ous Hike Join Naturalist Kelly McGinnis for an exploration of the Chippewa Creek Gorge. Part of this hike is off-trail and strenuous. Bring water and wear sturdy shoes. 2 - 4:30 p.m. BNC Terrain: hills, difficult, 3.5 miles Voyageur Canoe Paddle (see 9/10 for details) Bird Banding: Migrating Wonders (see 9/4 for details)
Emerald Necklace, September 2011
12 • Monday
13 • Tuesday
Urban Explorations: Burke Lakefront Airport Join Historical Interpreter Doug Kusak to learn about the history and workings of Burke Lakefront Airport. We’ll also tour the International Women’s Air & Space Museum in the airport. Details will be sent with confirmation. 10 a.m. Ages: adult Register beginning September 1 216-206-1000
Hidden Story Hike Join Naturalist John Miller for a tour of the Tall Grass Prairie at its best. We will take a closer look at the rich diversity, beauty, and interaction between the flowering plants and insects of this unusual ecosystem. 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. BNC Terrain: easy, steps, 2 miles
Hike the Canal Series For the last hike of our Hike the Canal Series we will start at CanalWay Center and hike to the Overlook. This time of year the trees should create a beautiful background for our hike. 6 p.m. CWC Terrain: all purpose trail 3 miles Full Moon Hike The full harvest moon is upon us and it is a time of plenty for local wildlife. Join us as we search for nocturnal mammals reaping the rewards of nature’s harvest as the moon rises over North Chagrin Reservation. 7:30 - 9 p.m. NCNC Ages: families Terrain: easy, 1 - 2 miles
Hidden Valley Homeschoolers: Back to School! Take a trip back in time and see what school was like for kids 150 years ago. Beware of the strict school marm who will lead children through their lessons. Be on time and sit up straight or you may find yourself staying after to sweep out the schoolhouse. 1 - 2 p.m. CWC Ages: 8 - 12 years Register beginning September 1 216-206-1000
14 • Wednesday
Rain Barrel Workshop Make your own rain barrel to collect and store rainwater that would otherwise be lost to runoff or diverted to a storm drain. Use collected water to water lawns and gardens. Cuyahoga Soil & Water Conservation District’s Jared Bartley guides you. 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. RRNC Cuyahoga Astronomical Fee: $60 (includes instrucAssociation On a Full Moon Night-Double tion and all parts) Stars - When the moon is full, Register by September 12 lighting up the night sky, one 440-734-6660 cannot see many common Greater Cleveland stars and constellations – so Beekeepers Association what do you look for? Allan Jenks answers: “Double Barb Krecic and other GCBA Stars!” Get the scoop on what members who attended the they are and why it’s impor- Queen Rearing classes instructed by Denzil St. Clair of tant to study them. Queen Right Colonies, LTD 7:30 - 9 p.m. RRNC share their experiences. 7 - 9 p.m. RRNC
Brunch in the Park Come for an early fall hike through Viaduct Park. We will enjoy the history of the area and see the great falls of Tinker’s Creek. When we return to the picnic area we will feast upon pancakes and fruit. 10 a.m. - noon BeR Willis Picnic Area Terrain: easy, 1 mile Register beginning September 1 216-341-3152 Youth Outdoors Volunteer Orientation Want to share your interest in the out-of-doors with urban youth from Cleveland? We are looking for adults to assist our staff in providing handson outdoor recreation experiences such as hiking, fishing, kayaking, rock climbing, biking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and nature exploration. This orientation provides information about our program for potential volunteers. 7 - 9 p.m. CWC Ages: adults Register by September 12 216-206-1010 Animal Crackers (see 9/7 for details) 10 - 11:15 a.m. or 1 - 2:15 p.m. BNC
15 • Thursday Inviting the Planet to Dinner This is apple season! You can’t get much more local or more delicious than apples raised by Apolloson Farms in Lodi. Come and learn the trials and tribulations of growing apples in Northeast Ohio, then taste some dishes made with our famous Ohio fruit. 7 - 8:30 p.m. RRNC Fee: $5 (includes tastings) Register beginning August 29 440-734-6660
16 • Friday CanalWay Campfire Join us for an end of summer campfire. We will share some stories of our summer adventures and roast some marshmallows over the fire. Stay for one marshmallow or s’more. Bring your lawn chair and be prepared to try some ‘dumpcake’. 7 - 8:30 p.m. CWC Register beginning September 1 216-206-1000
17 • Saturday Dog Walk Take your best friend to the park for some exercise and socialization. We will hike the wooded trails of North Chagrin Reservation. Dogs must be leashed. 10 - 11:30 a.m. NCNC Terrain: moderate 1.6 - 2 miles
Migrating Monarchs Monarch butterflies are beginning their journey to Mexico. We’ll visit our local prairie and meadows in search of these amazing migrating insects, and tag and release them for the “Monarch Watch” program. 1:30 - 4 p.m. BNC Terrain: 2.5 miles Register beginning September 1 440-526-1012 Forests of Cleveland Metroparks: Hemlock Ravine Hemlocks skirt the edges and don the sides of many ravines in Cleveland Metroparks. The cool, moist microclimate of this beautiful forest feature provides perfect habitat for more northern wildlife species. Hike on- and off-trail to take a closer look. 2 - 4 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Terrain: hilly, 2 miles Living History: Mayor Tom Johnson Well-known local actor Mark Cipra brings “Cleveland’s Greatest Mayor” Tom L. Johnson to life. Johnson served during one of Cleveland’s greatest periods of growth. It is appropriate to illuminate his career at CanalWay Center, since transportation infrastructure was a centerpiece of his policies. 3 p.m. CWC
Meet An Animal: Peregrine Falcon You could almost say “faster than a speeding bullet” to describe this remarkably adapted hunter of the sky. Your admiration will grow after seeing one these live aweinspiring birds who are becoming local Ohio residents. Free. 3 p.m. LENSC 440-871-2900 Cleveland Natural Science Club Wood Carving in Lillich’s Lair – CNSC and Cleveland Audubon Society member, John Lillich is a nature wood carver who will show us some of his work. 7:30 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge 440-247-2766 CanalWay Cart Tours – Southern Route (see 9/9 for details)
18 • Sunday Sunrise Pontoon Float Greet the morning from the comfort of Cleveland Metroparks Floating Water Lab pontoon boat. We’ll cruise in search of the plants and animals that call Hinckley Lake home. Registration is limited and required. 7 - 8:30 a.m. HiR Hinckley Lake Boathouse Ages: 10 years & up with adult Register beginning September 1 440-526-1012
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Bird Banding: Migrating Bike - Train - Bike! Wonders Doug Kusak leads history (see 9/11 for details) adventures on bicycle and the iron horse. We start at Bird Banding at Rocky CanalWay Center, bicycle River Nature Center to the CVSR train depot in (see 9/10 for details) Peninsula, ride the rails back north and then hop back on Cedar Valley Settlers the bikes to get home! Celebration & Music 9 a.m. CWC Festival Ages: 15 years - adults (see page 7 for details) (experienced riders only) Fee: $3 (to board train) 19 • Monday Terrain: varied, 22 miles (helmet required) Northeast Ohio Association Register beginning of Herpetologists September 1 Field Evening - We’ll do some 216-206-1000 brief field herping (weather permitting), looking for herps Nature 101: Pollinators Judy Semroc from the Cleve- around the nature center, then land Museum of Natural gather in the auditorium to History will share her stun- review our finds. ning photography and expert 7:30 – 9 p.m. RRNC knowledge about pollinators. Cleveland Metroparks Discover and marvel at the Southwest Camera Club intricate partnership between wasps, flies, bees, butterflies Remember the first day of and blooms. We’ll begin in- school, when the teacher doors but also spend time in wanted a report on your summer activities? What I Did the field. This Summer is tonight’s topic. 1 - 4 p.m. SCR Members share their favorLook About Lodge ite summer images in slides, Ages: 14 years - adult prints, and digital media. Terrain: flat, 1 mile 7:30 - 9 p.m. RRNC Flower Fuel for Flight Cleveland Metroparks The color of late summer Photography Club East fields is purple with New England asters and the gold Patterns along the path - you of goldenrod. These are the don’t have to go too deep into plants that provide the nectar nature to find them. Bring in for migrating monarch but- five images of what you find terflies. We’ll try to catch a along nature’s path. 8 - 10 p.m. NCNC few monarchs. 1:30 - 3 p.m. NCR 20 • Tuesday Strawberry Picnic Area parking lot Hiking for the Ages: adults, 8 years & over Young at Heart with adult Hike through the hills and Terrain: uneven, high valleys of Mill Stream Resergrasses, 2 miles vation as we enjoy the Royalview Loop trail. 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. MSRR Royalview Picnic Area Terrain: 2.5 miles 440-526-1012
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Emerald Necklace, September 2011
Ridges & Fields of West Creek The forest ridges, meadows, and riparian corridors of West Creek provide a refuge for dozens of migrating songbirds, resident reptiles and amphibians, and diverse plant life. Join Naturalist Jen Brumfield on a ridge-top tour of scenic hillsides and “back trails” of this suburban green space. Binoculars recommended. 10 - 11:30 a.m. WCR Ages: adults Terrain: moderate, 3+ miles 216-341-9225 Stroller Science Today we will be looking for the orange-and-black butterfly with the royal name, the monarch. Discover with your little one how they grow, where they go in the fall, and how we can help them out so that they can be enjoyed by future generations. 10:15 - 11:15 a.m. NCNC Ages: 2 years & under with adult Terrain: paved & dirt trails, 0.5 mile
Adopt-A-Beach Join Cleveland Metroparks in this hands-on program to monitor water quality and to beautify the beach. We will do water quality tests, observation and trash pick-up. Do your part to save the earth! 4 - 5:30 p.m. HuR Huntington Beach Water Tower Register beginning September 1 440-734-6660
21 • Wednesday Trail Trackers: Moths and Butterflies Moths and butterflies seem to be the same, but are they? We’ll take an up-close look at these two colorful insects to discover more about their food, flight and features. 10 - 11 a.m. or 1 - 2 p.m. NCNC Ages: 3 years - K with adult Register beginning September 1 440-473-3370
History & A Brown Bag Lunch This popular weekday program returns from summer vacation. This month’s program will focus on some of the businesses that have been established in the Hidden Valley and the prosperity, people, and pollution that came with them. Pack a lunch and join us! Noon CWC 216-206-1000 Walking Works Hike Celebrate the first day of autumn with a hike around the woods near South Mastick Picnic Area. 2 - 3 p.m. RRR South Mastick Picnic Area Terrain: flat, 1.5 mile
22 • Thursday Around the Emerald Necklace Hike Cleveland Metroparks naturalists are eager to share their favorite trails around the Emerald Necklace. Hikes rotate throughout most Cleveland Metroparks reservations. Join us for a peek at one of Cleveland’s best-kept secrets in Big Creek Reservation. 2 - 3:30 p.m. BCR Memphis Road Picnic Area 440-734-6660 Bike the Ohio & Erie Canal Doug Kusak and Jill Hauger lead a history/nature adventure on bicycle on Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation’s all purpose trail. Helmet required. 6 p.m. OECR Rockside parking lot (Lock 39) Terrain: paved, easy to moderate pace, 12 miles Register beginning September 1 216-206-1000
23 • Friday Preschool: Trees Bring your preschooler down to CanalWay Center because this month we are talking about trees. They produce oxygen, they supply us with the material to make paper, plus they are pretty to look at throughout the year. We will discuss the wonderful world of trees. 10 a.m. CWC Ages: 2 - 5 years with adult Register beginning September 1 216-206-1000 Outdoor Education for Homeschoolers: Under Ohio Have you ever wondered why Ohio looks the way it does? Or why certain plants and animals live here? The answers are in the rocks. We will dig deep to uncover the stories that lie in the rocks and how they affect our daily lives. 10 a.m. - noon NCR Nature Education Building Ages: 6 - 12 years Terrain: easy, level, 1 mile Register beginning September 1 440-473-3370
CanalWay Cart Tours – Northern Route If you have found the terrain too difficult for walking but would like to see the park, join us for one of these tours focusing on the natural and cultural history of the northern Cuyahoga River valley. Each tour accommodates seven passengers and lasts one hour. 10:30 a.m. or noon CWC Register beginning September 1 216- 206-1000 Family Friday Night: A Leaf Lesson Bring a t-shirt or sweatshirt that you will decorate with leaf prints. As you look at fallen leaves, you’ll learn which trees they came from. Choose your favorite for your design. 6:30 – 8 p.m. NCNC Terrain: level, paved, 0.5 miles
CanalWay CoffeeHouse Lisa and Heather Malyuk are celebrated performing artists in the U.S. and abroad. They received much acclaim for their interpretation of old-time Appalachian, Celtic, world and original folk music. Their performances feature hammered dulcimer and guitar and are spiked with dynamic tunes on the fiddle and banjo uke. 7:30 - 9 p.m. CWC 216-206-1000
24 • Saturday Breakfast in the Park Enjoy a morning hike with Naturalist Gretchen Motts along Lake Erie to learn a little of the history of Huntington Reservation while volunteers whip up a delicious breakfast. Along with your food item, bring a reusable place setting for each person. 9 - 11 a.m. HuR Lake Picnic Shelter Terrain: steps and beach 1 mile Registration required 440-734-6660
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Autumn Hayrides Kick off the season with a hayride. We are offering 30 minute rides on a tractorpulled wagon. During the ride we will search for unnatural items hidden along the way. After the hayride enjoy apple juice and doughnuts. Space is limited. 1 - 5 p.m. NCR Strawberry Picnic Area parking lot Fee: $3 (due by 5 p.m., September 22) Register beginning September 1 440-473-3370
Ferns & Fungi in Our Forest When the flowers start to fade, ferns are at their peak. Come be amazed at the diversity of these green and leafy plants, and take a closer look at fall’s fruiting fungi. 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. SCR Look About Lodge Ages: adult Terrain: hills, stream crossings, 2.5 miles Cub Scout Saturday: Forester Join Naturalist Mindy Murdock to meet requirements for your forester badge. Like a cake, forests have layers. Each of these layers are home to different plants and animals. You’ll learn to identify some of the common trees and forest plants. 10 a.m. - noon NCR Strawberry Picnic Area parking lot Terrain: some hills, uneven, 2 miles Register beginning September 1 440-473-3370
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American Red Cross Pet First Aid Pet First Aid teaches participants emergency care procedures for cats and dogs and provides tips for keeping your pet happy and healthy too. Training will be conducted on canine and feline manikins to give participants a more realistic experience in providing care. 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. RRR Park Operations Administration Fee: $40 (includes Dog or Cat First Aid Book/DVD) $55 (includes Dog and Cat First Aid Books/DVDs) Register by September 21 440-331-8111 Acoustic Players Circle Do you know a song with a person’s name in it? Then bring it to this month’s Acoustic Players Circle. You can sing it, play it or read it at this monthly casual music circle. Listeners also welcome. 1 p.m. CWC
Emerald Necklace, September 2011
Fall Greetings Come to the nature center to create a few fall-themed greeting cards, all while sharing stories and ideas from our own fall adventures. 1 - 2:30 p.m. GPNC Registration required 216-341-3152 An Artful Autumn Afternoon Autumn is a beautiful season full of color. Come to Look About Lodge and be inspired by autumn in an artistic way. We’ll use natural objects for printing and try our hands at stenciling. 1 - 3 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Ages: 12 years - adults Fee: $5 per person Registration required by September 14 440-247-7075 or LALreg@ clevelandmetroparks.com
Meet An Animal: The Striped Skunk Experience a LIVE up-close meeting with this oftenmisunderstood animal. As skunks become more common in our backyards, it becomes more beneficial for us to understand them. Free. 3 p.m. LENSC 440-871-2900 CanalWay Cart Tours – Northern Route (see 9/23 for details) Voyageur Canoe Paddle (see 9/10 for details)
25 • Sunday Tour de Necklace Rocky River Reservation Join us on this popular stretch of the Emerald Necklace as we pedal through Rocky River Reservation. Meet at Emerald Necklace Marina with stops at Berea Falls and Rocky River Nature Center. This early fall ride will make this tour a joy for the mind, soul and body. 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. RRR Emerald Necklace Marina parking lot Ages: 14 years - adults Terrain: some hills, 27 miles, helmets required Registration required 216-206-1000
Voyageur Canoe Paddle Walking Club (see 9/10 for details) Need motivation for the fall season? Meet your fellow FallFest: walkers for the first hike in (see page 8 for details) our fall walking series. Each month we will engage in a Bird Banding at Rocky brisk naturalist-led hike for River Nature Center our health! (see 9/10 for details) 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. GPNC Register beginning 27 • Tuesday September 1 216-341-3152 Monarch Tagging Join Naturalist Min Keung Goldenrods and Asters Join Naturalist Mindy Mur- to learn about these beaudock for an inside presenta- tiful winged creatures. We tion to learn to identify some will also learn how to tag of our common goldenrod monarch butterflies. In case and aster species. Then, we’ll of rain, program will be cantake a hike around the marsh celled. 2 - 3 p.m. RRR to discover what’s in bloom. Lewis Road Riding Ring 1 - 2:30 p.m. NCNC parking lot Terrain: level, 0.5 miles Terrain: grassy, may be muddy School of the Wilds 440-734-6660 Mushrooms The United Nations has declared 2011 the Year of the Forest. Fungi are an integral part of a healthy forest. Join mycologist Walt Sturgeon to learn more about mushrooms in our lives, and for a walk to seek the wild fungi! 2 - 5 p.m. RRNC
28 • Wednesday
Hiking for Your Health Enjoy a walk through the forest to Berea Falls and back to view the first of autumn colors and the falls with naturalist David Dvorak. 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. RRR Willow Bend Picnic Area Terrain: some hills, 3 miles 440-734-6660
Little Explorers: Dragonflies Your preschooler will love learning about these amazing insects! Join Naturalist Bethany Majeski and get up close and personal with these quick and colorful predators of the pond. A hike, story, and craft are all part of the fun. 10 - 11:15 a.m. or Little Explorers: 1 - 2:30 p.m. RRNC Dragonflies Ages: 3 - 5 years with adult (see 9/28 for details) Terrain: a few steps, 0.5 mile Register beginning 30 • Friday September 1 440-734-6660 Family Friday Night: Folktales Campfire Monarch Tagging Join us for a relaxing evening (see 9/27 for details) around a cozy campfire to roast marshmallows and hear 29 • Thursday folktales. Stories will feature owls, bats, and more. Please Bird or Bust: feel free to bring your favorite Migration Highway story to share with the group. Huntington Reservation’s for- 7:30 - 9 p.m. NCR est ridges, fields, open beach Nature Education Building and overlook of Lake Erie Terrain: easy, level, 0.5 mile offer refuge for songbirds, waterbirds and raptors. Join Escape on the naturalist Jen Brumfield for Underground Railroad an exciting morning in the Educators Only Night field, witnessing the splendor (see page 2 for details) of birds on their south-bound fall migration. Binoculars recommended. 9 - 11 a.m. HuR Ages: adults Terrain: moderate, 2 miles Cleveland Metroparks 216-341-9225 is proud to serve the Urban Explorations: Kingsbury Run… and Walk Kingsbury Run was the dumping site of severed torsos and upended political careers. We’ll take a ride and walk to discover the history and horrors that plagued Cleveland of yesteryear. Bus ride to locations; minimal hiking on paved surfaces at sites. 9:30 a.m. CWC Age: adults Register beginning September 1 216-206-1000
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4101 Fulton Parkway Cleveland, Ohio 44144-1923 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED DATED MATERIAL DO NOT DELAY
printed on recycled paper Administrative Offices
216-635-3200/general Cleveland Metroparks information - 24-hours a day. TTY 216-351-0808 4101 Fulton Parkway Cleveland, OH 44144 clevelandmetroparks.com 24-hour Job Hotline 216-635-3211 Office of the Executive Director 216-635-3214 Office of the Treasurer 216-635-3231 Human Resources 216-635-3228 Marketing 216-635-3268 Planning/Engineering 216-635-3237 Brochures/Maps/Emerald Necklace 216-635-3200 Permits/Picnic Area Reservations 216-635-3200 Volunteer Services 216-635-3258
Ranger Headquarters Ranger Chief 4600 Valley Parkway Fairview Park 440-331-5530 Accidents or Emergencies 440-333-4911
Cleveland Metroparks Directory Golf
Outdoor Education Facilities
Golf Services – for general course info and inquires 440-232-7247
Brecksville Nature Center Rt. 82 entrance Brecksville Reservation Brecksville 440-526-1012
Golf Tee Reservations (24 hours) and directions, hours, fees etc. 216-635-3673 clevelandmetroparks.com
Big Met Golf Course 4811 Valley Parkway Rocky River Reservation Fairview Park 440-331-1070 Food Service/Catering: Big Met Grille 440-333-5575 Little Met Golf Course 18599 Old Lorain Road Rocky River Reservation Cleveland 216-941-9672 Manakiki Golf Course 35501 Eddy Road North Chagrin Reservation Willoughby Hills 440-942-2500 Food Service/Catering: Sammy’s of Manakiki 440-946-1140 Mastick Woods Golf Course 19900 Puritas Road Rocky River Reservation Cleveland 216-267-5626 Food Service/Catering: Eagle’s Nest Cafe 216-267-5626 Seneca Golf Course 975 Valley Parkway Brecksville Reservation Broadview Heights 440-526-0043 Food Service/Catering: Back 9 Grill 440-546-7797
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo & The RainForest
Shawnee Hills Golf Course 18753 Egbert Road Bedford Reservation Bedford 440-232-7184 Food Service/Catering: Double Bogey Grille 440-786-7587
Office of the Zoo Director 216-635-3330
Sleepy Hollow Golf Course 9445 Brecksville Road Brecksville Reservation Brecksville 440-526-4285 Food Service/Catering: Theo’s of Sleepy Hollow 440-546-1555
Parkway Alert Line (PAL) 440-331-5963
216-661-6500/24-hour information. TTY 216-661-1090 3900 Wildlife Way Cleveland, OH 44109 clemetzoo.com
Education Programs/Volunteers 216-635-3391 Travel Programs 216-635-3331 Marketing & Public Relations 216-635-3338 School Group Reservations 216-635-3308 Groups/Parties/Private Events/ Facility Rentals 216-635-3389 Cleveland Zoological Society 216-661-6500, ext. 4421
Washington Golf Course 3841 Washington Park Blvd. Washington Reservation 216-641-1864 The First Tee of Cleveland 216-641-7799
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Education Administration 216-341-9225 Institute of the Great Outdoors 216-341-1704
Garfield Park Nature Center 11350 Broadway Avenue Garfield Park Reservation Garfield Heights 216-341-3152 North Chagrin Nature Center Sunset Lane Entrance North Chagrin Reservation Mayfield Village 440-473-3370 John J. Donnelly Rocky River Nature Center 24000 Valley Parkway Rocky River Reservation North Olmsted 440-734-6660 Look About Lodge 37374 Miles Rd., east of Rt. 91 South Chagrin Reservation 440-247-7075 EarthWords Nature Shops CanalWay Center Cuyahoga Heights 216-206-1003 North Chagrin Nature Center Mayfield Village 440-449-0511 Rocky River Nature Center North Olmsted 440-734-7576 NatureTracks Education Unit/EcoExplorers 216-341-1707 Wildlife Rehabilitation Center Lake Erie Nature & Science Center Bay Village 440-871-WILD
Boating
Emerald Necklace Marina 1500 Scenic Park Drive Rocky River Reservation Lakewood 216-226-3030 Food Service/Catering: Sweetwater Landing 216-228-2233 Kayak Rentals 41° North Coastal Kayak Adventures Rocky River Reservation 1-866-529-2541 Hinckley Boathouse West Drive, Hinckley Lake Hinckley Reservation Hinckley Township 330-278-3132 Wallace Lake Off Valley Parkway, south of Bagley Road Mill Stream Run Reservation, Berea Quarry Rock Café
Historical Interpretation 440-786-8530
Winter Recreation
Voyageur Canoe Paddle Wallace/Hinckley Lakes 440-786-8530
Chalet/Tobogganing Mill Stream Run Reservation Strongsville 440-572-9990
West Creek Reservation 216-341-9225
216-635-3200
CanalWay Center E. 49th Street entrance Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation Cuyahoga Heights 216-206-1000
Youth Outdoors 216-206-1010
Affiliates are supported, but not operationally-funded, by Cleveland Metroparks. These outstanding non-profit organizations depend on class fees, special events, benefactor initiatives, and your financial support to operate. Your contributions and volunteer service are encouraged.
Swimming
440-331-8111 Hotline 216-635-3383 Hinckley Lake Hinckley Reservation Hinckley Township Huntington Beach Huntington Reservation Bay Village Ledge Pool & Recreation Area Hinckley Reservation Hinckley Township Ledge Rock Café Wallace Lake Mill Stream Run Reservation Berea Quarry Rock Café
Cleveland Metroparks Affiliates and Clubs Achievement Centers for Children Camp Cheerful 440-238-6200 Mill Stream Run Reservation BAYarts Huntington Reservation 440-871-6543 www.bayarts.net Vento 440-835-4530 Brecksville Historical Society Brecksville Reservation 440-526-7165 Brecksville Stables Brecksville Reservation 440-526-6767 www.brecksvillestables.com Brilla House Slavic Village Development Mill Creek Falls Garfield Park Reservation 216-429-1182, ext. 116 Brooklyn Exchange Cabin Hinckley Reservation 216-978-8276 Chagrin Valley Trails and Riding Club South Chagrin Reservation 216-635-3200 Cleveland Archery Club 216-635-3200 Cleveland Natural Science Club 440-247-4005 or 440-247-0151 Hinckley Historical Society Hinckley Reservation 330-278-3159 Huntington Playhouse Huntington Reservation 440-871-8333 www.huntingtonplayhouse.com Girl Scouts of North East Ohio Intergrove Lodge 1-800-852-4474 www.gsneo.org Lake Erie Nature & Science Center Huntington Reservation 440-871-2900 www.lensc.org Olmsted Historical Society Rocky River Reservation 440-779-0280 www.olmstedhistoricalsociety.org Rocky River Stables Rocky River Reservation 216-267-2525 (lessons & boarding – no trail rides)