Hit the Trail

BY KATHARINE STEVENS

Medina County Park District is home to 20 parks. Find the best place to start with this handy guide!

Are you specifically looking for activities for your kids today?

Not this time!

Do you prefer dry land?

A little water never hurt!

What kind of mood are you in today?

I want to get a workout in.

I want to relax in nature.

View wildlife on the wetlands at Chippewa Inlet Trail North. Enjoy a plethora of flora and fauna along the nearly 3-mile trail.

Take your time to walk the loop around the wetland restoration project to the north and bring your binoculars!

Aiming to stay dry. How do you feel about horses?

Yes please!

How energetic are your kiddos usually?

They’re more intellectual.

My horse is family! I prefer my own horsepower, thanks.

Go horseback riding on the east side of Allardale Park. The wide trail is perfect for sharing an afternoon with your horse. Enjoy scenic views as you ride through native beech trees, tulip poplars and oaks on the 1.8-mile bridle trail.

Bike or hike the Lester Rail Trail. Converted from a former rail corridor, this trail is now perfect for two wheels (or two feet!). The trail is mostly level, making the trip light enough to enjoy the views of expansive farmland.

Canoe at Killbuck Lakes. With 47 acres to paddle around, Killbuck Lakes is ideal for those who enjoy exploring via canoe or kayak. And, if you bring a fishing rod, you can catch bass, bluegill and crappie. Take note: only non-motorized boats and boats with electric motors are permitted.

They’re bouncing off the walls. Help!

Play at Hubbard Valley Park’s new playground. Let them run and climb to their hearts’ content at the playground, built in 2021, or enjoy the swings. The park also has a looped trail to explore for the more adventurous kiddos.

Visit the learning centers at Susan Hambley Nature Center and Oenslager Nature Center. The Susan Hambley Nature Center hosts activities for children and has live animals to peek at up close. The naturalists at the Oenslager Nature Center will teach your kids about plants and animals they may come across on their hikes.

Feeling artsy? Create a new masterpiece at All Fired Up!.