Programs & Events Memories and Milestones in SMP. . . . . 7

JULY

Summit Metro Parks continues to monitor COVID-9 safety guidance and visitors are requested to follow the most recent recommendations of the Ohio Department of Health. Please visit summitmetroparks.org or call 330-865-8065 for the latest information on COVID-9 protocols.

Thursday, July , 6 a.m. –  p.m. SELF-GUIDED: EYE SPY

Hit the trail any time during the month of July for a nature-themed game of Eye Spy! Begin by downloading or printing this month’s Eye Spy list from our “Publications & Downloads” page, then enjoy a stroll along Glens Trail in search of geologic features, animals and more along the way. Please stay on the designated trail while searching. You can also complete your search using the July  Instagram post (@summitmetroparks). Bring a camera to

document your finds. G/Main Entrance: 60 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls

Thursday, July ,  – 2:30 p.m. MAKE AND TAKE: CANVAS ART

Do you like crafting and making your own fun decor? We will use recycled burlap to create a wonderful canvas. Add paint to create an inspirational work of art for your home.

F/Tuscarawas Meadows: 2620 Harrington Rd., Akron (6/22)

PROGRAMS & EVENTS

Friday, July 2, 0 a.m. – 2 p.m. A DEEP LOOK AT DEEP LOCK

Stroll with a naturalist to learn the history of Deep Lock Quarry and the role it played on the Ohio and Erie Canal, in Akron and

beyond. DLQ: 5779 Riverview Rd., Peninsula (6/23) Saturday, July 3, 7 – 8:30 p.m. HIKE FOR THE HEALTH OF IT

Hike both Old Mill and Rock Creek trails at a vigorous pace with few, if any, rest stops. Beginners are welcome, but talk to your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine. Drinking water is recommended.

FR/Brushwood: 4955 Townsend Rd., Richfield (6/25)

Saturday, July 3 0 a.m. – 2 p.m. &  – 3 p.m. TWO-WHEEL INTERPRETATION

Join a naturalist on this casually paced (8-2 mph) and socially distanced bike ride along the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail. We will be traveling 5.5 miles total from the Wolf Creek parking lot to Summit Lake and back, with interpretive stops along the way. Bring your own bike. Helmets are required. TT/

Wolf Creek: 33 Snyder Ave., Barberton (6/24) Tuesday, July 6, 6 a.m. –  p.m. SELF-GUIDED: DAMSELS & DRAGONS

Explore Buttonbush Trail and the world of damselflies and dragonflies. Follow signs along the trail between July 6 and July  to learn all about these amazing insects and observe as they cruise nearby to catch mosquitos.

LP/Pond Brook: 3973 E. Aurora Rd., Twinsburg

Call: 330-865-8065 Advance registration required, beginning at 0 a.m. on the date in parentheses.

(date) Registration start date

$ Fee

g Fall Hiking Spree credit BHT Bike & Hike Trail CV Cascade Valley DLQ Deep Lock Quarry FASN F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm

Zoom: https://zoom.us/join

Key in the Meeting ID number.

Web: 330tix.com

Online registration.

F Firestone FR Furnace Run FT Freedom Trail GYH Goodyear Heights G Gorge HH Hampton Hills LP Liberty Park MF Munroe Falls NR Nimisila Reservoir ONW O’Neil Woods SC Silver Creek SFB Springfield Bog

Centennial-themed

programs and events.

SLNC Summit Lake Nature Center SR Sand Run TT Towpath Trail WH Wood Hollow

Flying, hunting and soaring! Come discover with us the wonderful, colorful world of dragonflies. Kids ages 3 to 6 can join us as we explore the incredible world of these fast fliers! Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers.

Saturday, July 3, 0 –  a.m. &  – 2 p.m. (6/25)

LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Saturday, July 7, 0 –  a.m. &  – 2 p.m. (7/6)

FASN/Seneca Deck: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Wednesday, July 7, 0 – :30 a.m. NATURE JOURNALING

Join our interpretive artist for an inspiring lesson in nature journaling as a technique for practicing mindfulness. The program will begin on Seneca Deck. Please bring a chair and drawing materials. FASN: 828 Smith Rd.,

Akron (6/26)

Wednesday, July 7,  – 2 p.m. VIRTUAL: NATURE JOURNALING

Join our interpretive artist for an inspiring lesson in nature journaling as a technique for practicing mindfulness. A Zoom invitation

will be emailed to participants after registering. (6/26)

Wednesday, July 7,  – 3 p.m. SNAKES OF SUMMIT METRO PARKS

Learn why these “scary” serpents are important to the health of the park district’s ecosystem and why they should be respected, not feared. Join a naturalist for basic ID skills and to learn about species native to SMP. Then, we will walk the trail to see what snakes we can find. LP/Nature

Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg (6/9)

Thursday, July 8 5 – 6 p.m.; 6 – 7 p.m.; 7 – 8 p.m. TRY IT: STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING

Join us to try stand-up paddleboarding! Enjoy a relaxed session to see what this water sport is like and try maneuvering out on the water. Minimum age is 3; ages 3 to 7 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. We suggest bringing water, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses and wearing clothes that can get wet. Space is limited. SC/Bathhouse: 5000 Friday, July 9, 6 – 8 p.m. WOODLAND MUSHROOMS

Join a naturalist on a hike to discover the beauty, variety and interesting ecology of mushrooms. Bring bug spray and water.

LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg (6/29)

Saturday, July 0, 0 –  a.m. TRY IT: DISC GOLF

Looking to get outside and try something new? Disc golf might be for you! Join us at the Silver Creek Disc Golf Course, where we’ll have discs to loan and tips for a successful

outing on the green. SC/Cross Country: 4579 Medina Line Rd., Norton (6/28)

Saturday, July 0, 9:30 –  p.m. MOTHS OF FURNACE RUN

Moths outnumber butterflies by about 20 to one. Join a naturalist to learn how to use black lights to attract these amazing creatures and for a chance to observe their beautiful colors, shapes and patterns up close. Bring a flashlight and camera if you’d like to take photos. Bug spray highly recommended. FR/Brushwood: Sunday, July  9:30 – :30 a.m. &  – 3 p.m. STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING

Try stand-up paddleboarding to get a workout and enjoy a guided nature tour of the lake with a certified instructor and naturalist. No experience needed. Minimum age is 3; ages 3 to 7 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. We suggest bringing water, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses, and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes instruction and loan of paddleboard, paddle, and personal flotation device. Space is limited. Cost: $5/person. NR/

Lot C4: 5550 Christman Rd., Green (6/28) $

Sunday, July ,  – 3 p.m. NATIVE FERNS

Join a naturalist to look for several of the native ferns that grow in this area. Learn about their unique reproductive strategy, their significance in the plant kingdom and some of the lore surrounding their names

and uses. LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg (7/5)

Monday, July 2, 0 –  a.m. CAMOUFLAGE FOR KIDS

Kids and their adult companions can join a naturalist to learn about camouflage in the natural world, then take a short walk in search of creatures hiding right before our

eyes! FR/Brushwood: 4955 Townsend Rd., Richfield (6/29)

Wednesday, July 4, 9 –  a.m. DRAWING OUTDOORS

Bring your pad and pencils for an outdoor lesson in drawing. Beginners are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the program. Portable chairs and drinking water are recommended. Program will be canceled during inclement

weather. FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron (7/2)

Wednesday, July 4,  – 2 p.m. VIRTUAL: NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS

Join our interpretive artist for this entertaining virtual lesson in nature drawing. No experience is necessary; all you need are pencils, paper and a sense of humor. A

Zoom invitation will be emailed to participants after registering. (7/2)

Wednesday, July 4, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. VIRTUAL: PARKS, PEOPLE, PLANET

Take a glance back through our past, then dream about the incredible things Summit Metro Parks and park visitors may do in the next hundred years. Zoom meeting ID:

825 002 376

Thursday, July 5, 4:30 – 6 p.m. INTRO TO ARCHERY FOR KIDS

Archery is one of the oldest arts still practiced today, and it’s more accessible than ever. Children ages 9 to 5 can learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our temporary indoor range. Program is good for beginning and practiced archers. All equipment and handson instruction is provided. Must be 50 inches or taller. Cost: $0/person. HH/Archery Range:

940 W. Steels Corners Rd., Cuyahoga Falls (7/3) $

Thursday, July 5, 6:30 – 8 p.m. INTRO TO ARCHERY FOR ADULTS

Archery is one of the oldest arts still practiced today, and it’s more accessible than ever. Participants 6 and older can learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our temporary indoor range. Beginning and practiced archers are welcome. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Cost: $0/person.

HH/Archery Range: 940 W. Steels Corners Rd., Cuyahoga Falls (7/3) $ Thursday, July 5, 8:30 – 0 p.m. BATS, UP-CLOSE AND PERSONAL

Mysterious and often misunderstood, bats are some of the most fascinating creatures of the night. Join us to learn about these flying mammals as we attempt to catch live bats with nets for observation and data collection.

FR/Brushwood: 4955 Townsend Rd., Richfield (7/5)

Friday, July 6, 9 – 0:30 a.m. WILDFLOWERS OF THE BOG

Join a naturalist for a hike at the Springfield bog to observe which wildflowers are in bloom. Water and sunscreen are

recommended. SFB: 400 Portage Line Rd., Springfield Twp. (7/4)

Friday, July 6, 0 a.m. – 3 p.m. “TREE”MENDOUS TRIVIA

Drop by and pick up a self-guided tree activity, then enjoy tree fun facts and folklore while you see how many you can find in our

nearby forest. LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Saturday, July 7 9:30 – :30 a.m. &  – 3 p.m. STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING

Try stand-up paddleboarding to get a workout and enjoy a guided nature tour of the lake with a certified instructor and naturalist. No experience needed. Minimum age is 3; ages 3 to 7 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. We suggest bringing water, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses, and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes instruction and loan of paddleboard, paddle, and personal flotation device. Space is limited. Cost: $5/person. NR/ Saturday, July 7, 2 – 2 p.m. NATURE ART FOR TEENS

Do you have a creative spirit? Teens ages 3 to 7 are invited to join our interpretive artist for lessons in nature-inspired art. This is a drop-off program. Please dress for a mess.

FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron (7/6)

Sunday, July 8 9:30 – :30 a.m. &  – 3 p.m. NIMISILA RESERVOIR KAYAK

Paddle a portion of Nimisila Reservoir with a certified instructor and a naturalist to learn paddle strokes, safety and to see wildlife around the water. Minimum age is 3; ages 3 to 7 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. We suggest bringing water, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes: instruction and loan of kayak, paddle, and personal flotation device. Space is limited.

Cost: $5/person. NR/Lot C4: 5550 Christman Rd., Green (7/9) $

Monday, July 9, 6 a.m. –  p.m. SELF-GUIDED: FALL IN LOVE WITH INSECTS

Summer is all about insects: butterflies, beetles, bees and many more! Enjoy a hike along Meadow Trail and stop to learn fast facts about pollinators and their friends. This program will be available July 9 through

July 25. MF/Tallmadge Meadows: 088 North Ave., Tallmadge

Wednesday, July 2, 5 – 7 p.m. KINDEREALM HIKE: DRAGONFLIES

Kids ages 3 to 6: Drop by to enjoy a hike with your family and discover the wonderful, colorful world of daring dragonflies. Pick up a scavenger hunt from a naturalist at the campfire area before discovering “dragons”

Sunday, July 25,  – 3 p.m. NATIVE PLANTS IN BLOOM

Join a naturalist as we hike the trail looking for native plants in bloom. We will discuss their importance to the ecosystem and how SMP manages the meadow and open spaces to promote healthy plant growth. LP/Nature

Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg (7/9)

Sunday, July 25, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. DISTANCE HIKE

Lace up your boots and find your walking sticks because it’s time for another distance hike! We will explore six miles of the hilly trails around Cascade Valley. CV/Chuckery:

837 Cuyahoga St., Akron (7/6)

Monday, July 26, 0 –  a.m. BUG HUNT FOR KIDS

Kids and their adult companions can join a naturalist to learn about insects! Nets and jars will be provided for this fun hands-on walk.

WH: 22 Barlow Rd., Hudson (7/2)

Tuesday, July 27, 6 a.m. –  p.m. SELF-GUIDED: STORYBOOK TRAIL

Bring the family for some exercise and fun exploration with a self-guided story trail based on the book “The Little Mole Who Went in Search of Whodunit.” This program will be available on Downy Loop Trail from July

27 through August . WH: 22 Barlow Rd., Hudson Wednesday, July 28, 9 –  a.m. DRAWING OUTDOORS

Bring your pad and pencils for an outdoor lesson in drawing. Beginners are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the program. Portable chairs and drinking water are recommended. Program will be canceled during inclement

weather. FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron (7/3)

Wednesday, July 28, 2:30 –  p.m. VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX

Get fit while you sit! Enjoy an online exercise session with a certified BalloFlex instructor. BalloFlex is a seated workout that incorporates the elements of dance and fitness together in a safe, low impact and fun system. It is designed for all ages and abilities!

Zoom meeting ID: 742 857 8939

Wednesday, July 28,  – 3:30 p.m. LETS GO ON A BUG HUNT!

Join a naturalist as we scour the plants and hedgerows for caterpillars, spiders, bugs and other creepy crawly stuff! Learn that all bugs are insects, but not all insects are bugs! Nets and jars will be available for use. Bring a hat,

sunscreen and water. LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg (7/)

Wednesday, July 28, 6 – 8 p.m. BYO STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING

Do you have your own stand-up paddleboard? Register for a tour of the lake with a naturalist. Along the way, participants will learn about the beautiful wildlife that lives in and around the water. Minimum age is 3; ages 3 to 7 must be with an adult participant. Participants are required to bring a life jacket, paddle, and paddleboard, wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. We suggest bringing water, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses and wearing clothes that can get wet. Space is limited.

SC/Boathouse: 57 S. Medina Line Rd., Norton (7/7)

Wednesday, July 28, 7 – 8:30 p.m. TEEN ART: DESIGNER MUGS

Let’s get crafty and make personalized designer mugs. Teens will also learn about wildlife, capturing the colors and materials

found in nature. F/Tuscarawas Meadows: 2620 Harrington Rd., Akron (7/6) Thursday, July 29, 0 – :30 a.m. TREE ID BY LEAF

Join a naturalist on Seneca Deck for a brief lesson on tree identification by leaf, then hike Cherry Lane Trail where we will put our skills

to the test. FASN/Seneca Deck: 828 Smith Rd., Akron (7/9)

Friday, July 30, 0 – :30 a.m. SOUND MAPPING

Indulge your sense of hearing on a walk focused on sounds of nature and enjoy creating sound “maps” or journals of the sounds we experience. Meet at Pond View

Shelter. LP/Tinkers Creek: 0303 AuroraHudson Rd., Streetsboro (7/24)

Friday, July 30, 7 – 8:30 p.m. CLASSY CANVAS

Like to paint but need some instruction? Adult participants are invited to appreciate the beauty of the parks as we paint together. We’ll look at some brightly colored creatures to inspire creativity and then go through step-by-step instruction. We will provide all of the supplies needed to create a personal

masterpiece. GYH/Pioneer: 550 Frazier Ave., Akron (7/23)

Saturday, July 3, 0 –  a.m.;  a.m. – 2 p.m.; 2 –  p.m. TRY IT: KAYAKING

Join us to try kayaking! Enjoy a relaxed session to see what this water sport is like and try maneuvering out on the water. Minimum age is 3; ages 3 to 7 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closedtoe shoes and be able to swim. We suggest bringing water, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses and wearing clothes that can get wet. Space

is limited. MF/Lake Area: 52 S. River Rd., Munroe Falls (7/20)

Saturday, July 3,  – 2:30 p.m. NATURE’S LIQUID GOLD

Join a naturalist as we celebrate the honeybee! Discover how they communicate through dance and other fascinating behaviors as they make nature’s liquid gold. Who knows, maybe we will all get

a taste! LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg (7/8)

AUGUST

Sunday, August , 6 a.m. –  p.m. SELF-GUIDED: EYE SPY

Hit the trail any time during the month of August for a nature-themed game of Eye Spy! Begin by downloading or printing this month’s Eye Spy list from our “Publications & Downloads” page, then enjoy a stroll along Prairie Trail in search of colorful flowers, butterflies, birds and more along the way. You can also complete your search using the July  Instagram post (@summitmetroparks). Bring a camera to document your finds. SFB: 400

Portage Line Rd., Springfield Twp.

Sunday, August ,  – 3 p.m. WILL IT RAIN? THE CLOUDS SAY NOPE!

Who needs Doppler radar when you can read the clouds? Join a naturalist as we learn why to heed the saying “red sky in the morning, sailors take warning,” what causes tornados and what to look for during a storm. Learn what big marshmallows in the sky mean and learn why alto cirrus clouds are a sign of

incoming weather. LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg (7/25) Wednesday, August 4  a.m. – 2:30 p.m. PICNIC HIKE

Bring along a sack lunch and beverage to enjoy during our hike. FR/Brushwood: 4955

Townsend Rd., Richfield (7/26)

Wednesday, August 4, 7 – 8 p.m. VIRTUAL: TEEN TRIVIA NIGHT

Calling all teens: Gather friends, assemble your A-Team and join us virtually to test your nature trivia skills! Which Ohio mammal can hear a watch ticking from a football field away? Compete to answer this question and

more! Zoom meeting ID: 844 4934 0865

Friday, August 6, 8 – 9:30 p.m. SUNSET HIKE & FIRE

Join a naturalist for a stroll through the field to watch a beautiful sunset. Afterward, enjoy hearing a few nighttime myths and legends

around a campfire. LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg (7/26)

Saturday, August 7 0 – :30 a.m. & 2 – :30 p.m. TWO-WHEEL INTERPRETATION

Join a naturalist on this casually paced (8-2 mph) bike ride. We will travel 0.8 miles total along the Bike & Hike Trail with a turnaround stop at Brandywine Falls. Bring your own bike. Helmets are required. BHT/Barlow: 33

Barlow Rd., Hudson (7/27) Sunday, August 8,  – 3 p.m. WOODLAND MUSHROOMS

A walk in the woods often reveals wonders of nature otherwise overlooked. Join a naturalist on a hike to discover the beauty, variety and interesting ecology of mushrooms. Sturdy shoes, bug spray and drinking water are

strongly advised. LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg (7/30)

Monday, August 9,  – 2:30 p.m. CREEK WALK FOR KIDS

Kids and their adult companions get hands-on in the creek to search for insects, amphibians, fish and even fossils! Please dress to get wet and wear closed-toe shoes. FR/Brushwood:

4955 Townsend Rd., Richfield (7/30)

Wednesday, August , 9 –  a.m. DRAWING OUTDOORS

Bring your pad and pencils for an outdoor lesson in drawing. Beginners are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the program. Portable chairs and drinking water are recommended. Program will be canceled during inclement

weather. FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron (7/3)

Wednesday, August , 0 –  a.m. SNAKES FOR KIDS

Join us on Seneca Deck to learn fun facts about snakes. You might even get to meet

one! FASN/Seneca Deck: 828 Smith Rd., Akron (8/2)

What exactly is a bee? Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions can discover these amazing, misunderstood insects that are so important to our world. Program includes a hike and craft. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers.

Thursday, August 5, 6 – 7 p.m. (7/25)

FASN/Seneca Deck: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Saturday, August 4, 0 –  a.m. &  – 2 p.m. (8/9)

LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Wednesday, August , 2:30 –  p.m. VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX

Get fit while you sit! Enjoy an online exercise session with a certified BalloFlex instructor. BalloFlex is a seated workout that incorporates the elements of dance and fitness together in a safe, low impact and fun system. It is designed for all ages and abilities!

Zoom meeting ID: 742 857 8939

Wednesday, August ,  – 2 p.m. VIRTUAL: NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS

Join our interpretive artist for this entertaining virtual lesson in nature drawing. No experience is necessary; all you need are pencils, paper and a sense of humor. A

Zoom invitation will be emailed to participants after registering. (7/3)

Wednesday, August ,  – :30 p.m. FACEBOOK LIVE: SUMMER WILDFLOWERS

Thinking of adding a pop of color to your landscape? Join us online to discover a kaleidoscope of native wildflowers and learn the benefits of their beauty to your yard, pollinators and more. Bring any questions you may have to this live broadcast. Wednesday, August  4:30 – 6 p.m. & 6:30 – 8 p.m. TRY IT: DISC GOLF

Looking to get outside and try something new? Disc golf might be for you! Join us at the Silver Creek Disc Golf Course, where we’ll have discs to loan and tips for a successful

outing on the green. SC/Cross Country: 4579 Medina Line Rd., Norton (8/3)

Wednesday, August , 7 – 8 p.m. VIRTUAL: PURPLE MARTINS TAKE FLIGHT

It’s a bird cyclone! Join us online to discover the magical and mysterious story of the charismatic purple martin that mesmerizes paddlers at Nimisila Reservoir Metro Park

each year! Zoom meeting ID: 873 060 5402

Thursday, August 2, 0 – :30 a.m. SKETCH AND TREK

Want to connect with nature through art? Adults, come out and hike a portion of the trail for artistic inspiration and learn techniques to improve your sketches. Bring a pencil and paper and we’ll help your inner

artist shine! GYH/Pioneer: 550 Frazier Ave., Akron (8/6)

Friday, August 3, 8 – 0 p.m. NATURE AT NIGHT

Agile amphibians, observant owls, mysterious moths…who knows what we’ll find! Family groups are invited to grab a flashlight and walk between a series of nocturnal stations to catch a glimpse of nighttime critters. Meet

at Hilltop Shelter. CV/Oxbow: 06 Cuyahoga St., Akron

Saturday, August 4, 2 – 2 p.m. NATURE ART FOR TEENS

Do you have a creative spirit? Teens ages 3 to 7 are invited to join our interpretive artist for lessons in nature-inspired art. This is a drop-off program. Please dress for a mess.

FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron (8/9) Saturday, August 4, 7:30 – 9 p.m. HAUNTED CLINTON HIKE

Do you like strange and spooky things? There is an eeriness to some local myths and some say they can even hear a baby crying. Hike with a naturalist to learn some history and

local legends. TT/Clinton: 2749 North St., Clinton (8/7)

Saturday, August 4, 9:30 –  p.m. MOTHS OF MANY COLORS

Join a Summit Metro Parks naturalist and Dr. Lara Roketenetz from The University of Akron to explore the variety and beauty of our local moths. Bring a flashlight and camera if you’d like to take photos. Meet at the Field Station, past the main parking lot off Ira Road and down the lane to the second house. Bath

Nature Preserve: 3220 Ira Rd., Bath (8/6)

Sunday, August 5, 0 –  a.m.;  a.m. – 2 p.m.; 2 –  p.m. TRY IT: KAYAKING

Join us to try kayaking! Enjoy a relaxed session to see what this water sport is like and try maneuvering out on the water. Minimum age is 3; ages 3 to 7 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closedtoe shoes and be able to swim. We suggest bringing water, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses and wearing clothes that can get wet. Space

is limited. MF/Lake Area: 52 S. River Rd., Munroe Falls (8/0)

Monday, August 6, 9 – 0:30 a.m. TOP O’ THE WORLD HISTORY HIKE

Discover the area’s rich local history and enjoy the view as we hike from the Top O’ The World Area along portions of Adam Run

Trail. HH/Top O’ the World: 285 Bath Rd., Cuyahoga Falls (8/2)

Tuesday, August 7, 6 a.m. –  p.m. SELF-GUIDED: STORYBOOK TRAIL

Bring the family out for some exercise and fun exploration with a selfguided story trail based on the book “In the Tall, Tall Grass.” This program is available along Bluebird Trail from August 7 through

August 22. LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Wednesday, August 8, 0 – :30 a.m. NATURE JOURNALING

Join our interpretive artist for an inspiring lesson in nature journaling as a technique for practicing mindfulness. The program will begin on Seneca Deck. Please bring a chair and drawing materials. FASN: 828 Smith Rd., Akron (8/3)

Wednesday, August 8,  – 2 p.m. VIRTUAL: NATURE JOURNALING

Join our interpretive artist for an inspiring lesson in nature journaling as a technique for practicing mindfulness. A Zoom invitation

will be emailed to participants after registering. (8/3) Wednesday, August 8, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. VIRTUAL: THE SCIENCE OF SUNSETS

Join us online to discover why the intersection of sunlight, atmosphere and particles is truly breathtaking. We’ll talk best viewing locations just in time for you to catch the 8:28 p.m. sunset at a park near you! Zoom meeting

ID: 87 305 6094

Thursday, August 9, 7 – 8:30 p.m. CANAL HISTORY

Ever wonder what it was like to live on a canal boat? From fist fights to leaks patched with manure, we’ll connect with the past through stories of the daily challenges boatmen faced.

SLNC: 4 Ira Ave., Akron (8/4)

Friday, August 20, 3 – 5 p.m. DRAGONS & DAMSELS

Join a naturalist to learn basic ID tips and why dragonflies and damselflies are so important to the ecosystem. We’ll search the Seven Ponds Area of the nature preserve to see how many species we can find. LP/Tinkers

Creek SNP: 230 Old Mill Rd., Aurora (8/4)

Friday, August 20, 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. NIMISILA RESERVOIR KAYAK

Paddle a portion of Nimisila Reservoir with a certified instructor and a naturalist to learn paddle strokes, safety and to see wildlife around the water. Minimum age is 3; ages 3 to 7 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. We suggest bringing water, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes: instruction and loan of kayak, paddle and personal flotation device. Space is limited.

Cost: $5/person. NR/Lot C6: 694 Christman Rd., Green (8/) $ Friday, August 20, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. BYO KAYAKING: PURPLE MARTINS

Do you have your own kayak and want to see an amazing natural phenomenon? Paddle with naturalists to observe what appears to be a tornado of tens of thousands of birds settling into their roost for the night to rest for their migration south. Minimum age is 3; ages 3 to 7 must be with an adult participant. Participants are required to bring a life jacket, paddle and registered kayak, wear closedtoe shoes and be able to swim. We suggest bringing water, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses and wearing clothes that can get wet. Space is

limited. NR/Lot C6: 694 Christman Rd., Green (8/5)

Saturday, August 2, 8:30 – 9:30 p.m. FULL MOON HIKE

Join us as we hike under the sky by the light of the blue moon. This month’s full moon also is known as the “Sturgeon Moon.” Come discover the majesty of the full moon while our walk is illuminated by its

glow. LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Sunday, August 22,  – 3 p.m. POLLINATORS AND THEIR PLANTS

Join a naturalist as we hike the trail looking at the interactions between pollinators and their host plants. Flies, beetles, bees and butterflies all play a key role as pollinators of native plants. Nets, magnifiers and jars will be supplied so participants can see these interesting creatures up close and at work. We suggest bringing a hat and sunscreen.

LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg (8/6)

Wednesday, August 25, 9 –  a.m. DRAWING OUTDOORS

Bring your pad and pencils for an outdoor lesson in drawing. Beginners are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the program. Portable chairs and drinking water are recommended. Program will be canceled during inclement

weather. FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron (8/7)

Wednesday, August 25, 0 –  a.m. BUTTERFLIES FOR KIDS

Join us on the Seneca Deck to learn some interesting facts about butterflies. Then go for a short hike over to the garden to see which butterflies we can spot. FASN/Seneca

Deck: 828 Smith Rd., Akron (8/6)

Wednesday, August 25, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING: PURPLE MARTINS

Paddle with naturalists to observe what appears to be a tornado of tens of thousands of birds settling into their roost for the night to rest for their migration south. Minimum age is 3; ages 3 to 7 must be with an adult participant. We suggest bringing water, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses and wearing clothes that can get wet. Space is limited.

Cost: $5/person. NR/Lot C6: 694 Christman Rd., Green (8/5) $

Thursday, August 26 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. & 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. TRY IT: ARCHERY

Participants ages 9 and older can sign up for a 45-minute time slot to try archery. Beginning and practiced archers are welcome. All equipment is provided, and participants must

be 50 inches or taller. LP/Tinkers Creek: 0303 Aurora-Hudson Rd., Streetsboro (8/2)

Thursday, August 26, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. BYO KAYAKING: PURPLE MARTINS

Do you have your own kayak and want to see an amazing natural phenomenon? Paddle with naturalists to observe what appears to be a tornado of tens of thousands of birds settling into their roost for the night to rest for their migration south. Minimum age is 3; ages 3 to 7 must be with an adult participant. Participants are required to bring a life jacket, paddle and registered kayak, wear closedtoe shoes and be able to swim. We suggest bringing water, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses and wearing clothes that can get wet. Space is

limited. NR/Lot C6: 694 Christman Rd., Green (8/5) Friday, August 27, 9:30 – 0 a.m. SUMMER NATURE TALES

Young children and their adult companions will enjoy this interactive, summer-themed story time intended for ages 8 months to 3 years. Make it a fun, family-friendly morning by exploring the park after the program.

LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg (8/20)

Saturday, August 28 9:30 – :30 a.m. &  – 3 p.m. SUMMIT LAKE KAYAK

Paddle in the “Heart of Akron” at Summit Lake to learn what historical treasures helped build this community. This program is led by a certified instructor and a naturalist. Minimum age is 3; ages 3 to 7 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closedtoe shoes and be able to swim. We suggest bringing water, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses and wearing clothes that can get wet. Fee includes instruction and loan of kayak, paddle and personal flotation device. Space is limited.

Cost: $5/person. SLNC: 4 Ira Ave., Akron (8/9) $

Saturday, August 28,  – 2:30 p.m. HIKE FOR THE HEALTH OF IT

Hike the challenging Deer Run Trail at a vigorous pace with few, if any, rest stops. Be prepared for a lot of stairs! Beginners are welcome but talk to your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine. ONW/Trail

Lot: 2550 Martin Rd., Bath (8/20)

Saturday, August 28, 6 – 7 p.m. VIRTUAL KINDEREALM: BUMBLEBEES & FRIENDS

What exactly is a bee? Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions are invited to join us online to discover all about these amazing, misunderstood insects that are so important to our world. Zoom meeting ID:

858 6868 8370 Sunday, August 29, 2 – 3 p.m. FALL HIKING SPREE KICK-OFF

Get a head start on the 58th annual Fall Hiking Spree and meet a naturalist and mascots at Tuscarawas Meadows at Firestone Metro Park. Hiking forms will be available and Fall Hiking Spree t-shirts will be for sale. To receive your hiking shield, all other hikes must be completed 9/ through /30. F/Tuscarawas

Meadows: 2620 Harrington Rd., Akron g

Sunday, August 29,  a.m. – 2 p.m.; 2 –  p.m.;  – 2 p.m. TRY IT: STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING

Join us to try stand-up paddleboarding. Come enjoy a relaxed session to see what this water sport is like and try maneuvering out on the water. Minimum age is 3; ages 3 to 7 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. We suggest bringing water, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses and wearing clothes that can get wet. Space is limited. SC/Bathhouse: 5000

Hametown Rd., Norton (8/23)

Monday, August 30, 9 –  p.m. SIGHTS AND SOUNDS OF THE NIGHT

Join a naturalist to hunt the fields and forest edges for hidden insects. Do you know what a conehead is? How about a tree cricket? You might even see a shooting star as we talk about some of the constellations in the sky. Bring a flashlight and bug spray. LP/Nature

Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg (8/22)

Memories and Milestones In the Metro Parks

“The rays created the most magical scene.”

~ Sujata Patel

Jerry Welch feeding a chickadee Stephanie Walton, Chief of Marketing & Communications

L

ife is full of meaningful moments. With 00 years of history, how many memories have been created right here in your Summit Metro Parks?

For many residents, those priceless recollections include visits to the parks with their families. When her four now-

grown children were small, Sujata Patel remembers visits to Silver Creek Metro Park in Norton for “hiking, exploring, looking for fish in the ponds, picnics at the picnic tables and in the lawn by the boathouse, and hours of discovering various parts of nature. When I homeschooled, we would go to Pheasant Run and run the loop several times. We’d always stop in the pine forest as the sun was rising and the rays created the most magical scene.”

Visitor Jerry Welch has similar memories at Firestone Metro Park in Akron. “I

began feeding birds out of my hand at Firestone many years ago, first chickadees, then the occasional nuthatch and tufted titmouse may alight on the outstretched hand for a nibble of

sunflower seeds,” he shared. “Many fond memories of taking my young daughter there decades ago to feed the birds from her tiny hand!”

continued on page 8

Scott Roger & Meghan Meeker

“This fall he and I will have hiked the fall spree for 57 consecutive years.”

~ Linda Knight

continued from page 7

Or, maybe your story is a romantic one. As Summit County’s “back yard” for a century, the Metro Parks have seen countless first dates, marriage proposals and weddings. Sand Run Metro Park neighbor Meghan Meeker told us the parks “made me fall in love with the city, were the backdrop for falling in love with my husband, and now they are the literal back yard of my first home. My husband Scott Roger and I got married at the old Wadsworth Shelter on

October , 20. We had what many of our friends and family still refer to as the most magical wedding ceremony ever.”

Summit Metro Parks volunteer Paul

Schweigert met his wife Christine online in 999 and scheduled their first date

at Firestone Metro Park in Akron. They later married at the park’s Coventry Oaks Lodge, where a Summit Metro Parks ranger made them honorary “junior rangers,” complete with badges. “Now, every year for the last 5, we have celebrated our anniversary with a dinner in the park. We hope to continue that tradition for many more years,” Paul shared.

The trails of Summit Metro Parks have

even helped new businesses come to life. Local entrepreneurs Jon and Ali Hovan discovered the trails of Gorge Metro Park during the year-long renovation of their location in Cuyahoga Falls. “It was a time to relax, hike in peace and quiet, and a time for us to talk or come up with ideas for our new business.” Several years later, the Hovans still enjoy hiking the trails with their dog Stout and two children. “Whether hiking in the

Paul & Christine Schweigert

snow or sun, Summit Metro Parks offers beautiful trails to find nature and enjoy the outdoors,” they shared.

Perhaps your special memories are linked to events and programs hosted by the Metro Parks. Local resident Linda Knight completed the Fall Hiking Spree with her parents, grandparents and siblings for nearly 30 years and continues the tradition with one of her brothers to

this day. “This fall he and I will have hiked the fall spree for 57 consecutive years. I have hiked the Spree for All since its inception in 2004. This year will mark 7 years for me. I have enjoyed watching the parks evolve over the last half century.”

We’ve even heard from those who

participated in School of the Woods, an early version of what later became dozens of free, naturalist-led programs hosted by the park district each month. “In 966, Mrs. Thomas, my thirdgrade teacher at Annunciation School, recommended me for the Akron

Metropolitan Parks’ School of the Woods program. This week-long summer day camp was held at Seiberling School in Goodyear Heights,” shared Jim Nicholas. “A typical day included classroom activities and a bus trip to one of our local parks. I remember the trip to Seiberling Nature Center being a big deal.”

Our community is what makes Summit Metro Parks so special and we want to hear from you! Have the Metro Parks made an impact in your life? To tell us your Summit Metro Parks story, visit the centennial website at summitmetroparks100.org/shareyour-stories. There you’ll find writing prompts and a sample story to get the creative juices flowing. From your friends at Summit Metro Parks, thank you for a century of memories and milestones.

Hovan family

Enter to win SMP Centennial Merchandise!

Beginning July 3, share your Summit Metro Parks story using the hashtag #MySMPstory on Instagram.

Contest rules available at summitmetroparks100.org/share-your-stories.