ExplorePrograms & Events

Friday, March 3,  – 2 p.m. COZY UP WITH CHAMOMILE

Beginning Wednesday, March 

SELF-GUIDED HIKE: MINDFULNESS IN NATURE

Take some time for yourself to reconnect with nature. Hike Alder Trail between March  and March 5 while making a few stops to practice mindfulness, an exercise to help you be present in the moment. GYH/Pioneer: 550 Frazier Ave., Akron

Wednesday, March , 0 – :30 a.m.

Hike For The Health Of It

Join a naturalist for healthy outdoor exercise hiking at a moderate pace along the .6-mile Prairie Trail. Grab your water bottle and hiking shoes; beginners are welcome! We recommend talking to your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine. SFB: 400 Portage Line Rd., Springfield Twp.

Thursday, March 2, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Native Landscaping For Wildlife

Learn about the birds and the bees … and how to create habitat for them at home! We’re talking the best trees, shrubs, wildflowers and vines to support local wildlife throughout the year. FASN: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Friday, March 3, 2 – :30 p.m.

Senior Saunter

Whether you’re a senior by age or just want to enjoy the outdoors at a leisurely pace, join us for a stroll to enjoy nature as winter comes to a close. Bring a mug and enjoy a warm beverage, a warm fire and more nature conversation afterward. LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Through the ages, chamomile has been revered for its healing and medicinal uses. Enjoy hot chamomile tea and learn more about this amazing plant! FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Saturday, March 4, 2 – 2 p.m.

WOMEN IN HISTORY: MARY FIELDS AND RACHEL CARSON

Join us in kicking off Women’s History Month as we walk through time to meet two phenomenal women: Black entrepreneur, stagecoach driver and pioneer Mary Fields and marine biologist, science writer and environmentalist Rachel Carson. Come to enjoy this first-person interpretation by a representative from Women In History. Refreshments will be available. CV/Valley View: 22 Cuyahoga St., Akron

Sunday, March 5, 0 – :30 a.m.

COLOR HUNT HIKE

Bring the family on a short hike with a naturalist while we search for all the colors of the rainbow! Along the way, we’ll chat about the science behind colors in nature. FASN/ Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Sunday, March 5, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Animal Folk Stories Campfire

Why does bear sleep all winter and how did opossum get his bare tail? Sit beneath a nearly full moon to learn what folklore has to say and roast a marshmallow while you’re at it! Meet at the campfire area and bring a camp chair if you’d like. LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Beginning Sunday, March 5

SELF-GUIDED:

Storybook Trail

Bring the family out for some fun springtime exploration as you follow a self-guided story trail based on the book “North Country Spring.” This experience will be available along Downy Loop Trail from March 5 through March 26 WH: 22 Barlow Rd., Hudson

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!

VIRTUAL : 849 6465 8634

Thursday, March 2

Monday, March 6

Wednesday, March 8

Thursday, March 9

Monday, March 3

Thursday, March 6

Monday, March 20

Wednesday, March 22

Thursday, March 23

Thursday, March 30

Monday, March 6, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.

VIRTUAL: WOMEN IN THE OUTDOORS

Join us virtually to celebrate the upcoming International Women’s Day and learn about former and current female environmental trailblazers within Summit Metro Parks, throughout Ohio and beyond. Zoom meeting ID: 89 270 4886

Tuesday, March 7,  – 3 p.m.

NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS

Join our interpretive artist for an entertaining lesson in nature drawing. Bring a sketchbook, pencil and a sense of humor. Beginners are welcome. LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg (3/)

Wednesday, March 8, 0 a.m. – 2 p.m.

NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS

Join our interpretive artist for an entertaining lesson in nature drawing. Bring a sketchbook, pencil and a sense of humor. Beginners are welcome. FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron (3/)

Wednesday, March 8,  – 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. (3/)

Thursday, March 9, 0 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Nature Drawing For Adults

Join our interpretive artist for an entertaining lesson in nature drawing. Bring a sketchbook, pencil and a sense of humor. Beginners are welcome. SLNC: 4 Ira Ave., Akron (3/)

Thursday, March 9, 0 –  a.m.

LIL’ SPROUTS

This biweekly program is designed to engage children ages 3 to 5 and an accompanying adult in the wonderful world of gardening. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what’s growing and ready to harvest! Adults are asked to actively participate with children during the program. SLNC: 4 Ira Ave., Akron (3/2)

Friday, March 0, 2 –  p.m.

Nature Hike For Little Ones

Kids 6 and under, with an adult, can join a naturalist on a half-mile hike to learn about what spring means for Ohio! CV/Overlook: 354 Sackett Ave., Akron

Friday, March 0, 6 – 7:30 p.m. HIKE

The Night

Have you ever heard the saying “What you see is what you get?” Try hiking Pheasant Run Trail at night to listen to the things we may not see. On this hike, a naturalist will use recordings in hopes of summoning choruses of croaks, hoots and howls as animals respond. Patience and silence are essential. For ages 6 and older. No dogs, please. SC/ Pheasant Run: 5000 Hametown Rd., Norton

Saturday, March  0 – :30 a.m. & 2 – 3:30 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. SLNC: 4 Ira Ave., Akron (3/3)

Saturday, March , 0 – :30 a.m.

Hike Up To Calm Down

Join a naturalist as we hike the challenging 2-mile Deer Run Trail. We will take breaks to talk about how spending time in nature reduces stress and how to bring more calm into our daily lives. ONW/Trail Lot: 2550 Martin Rd., Bath

Saturday, March , 0:30 –  a.m.

Nature Stories And More

Curious youngsters with an accompanying adult will enjoy learning about nature through stories and play. The program will be held indoors. FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Saturday, March , 2 – 2 p.m.

BIRD NERDS: WATERFOWL

Bird enthusiasts of all kinds are invited to join us as we explore a new group of birds each month of 2023. We’re talking adaptations, behavior, identification and more. Bring binoculars if you have them, because after the presentation we’ll hit the trail to put our new knowledge into practice. F/Coventry Oaks: 40 Axline Ave., Akron

Sunday, March 2, 0 –  a.m.

SPRING FORWARD HIKE

Come along on this .4-mile hike, welcoming the “spring forward” of daylight saving time. This could be the last time we observe the biannual time change! GYH/Pioneer: 550 Frazier Ave., Akron

Sunday, March 2, 2 – :30 p.m.

NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS

Join our interpretive artist for this entertaining lesson in nature drawing for kids ages 6 to 2. All materials will be provided.

FASN: 828 Smith Rd., Akron (3/3)

Sunday, March 2, 2 – 3 p.m.

VIRTUAL: NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS

Join our interpretive artist for this entertaining virtual lesson in nature drawing for kids ages 6 to 2. All you need is a pencil and paper. A Zoom invitation will be emailed to participants after registration. (3/3)

Sunday, March 2, 3 – 4:30 p.m.

HISTORY HIKE: GIRL SCOUTS

Celebrate National Girl Scouts Day! Hike with a naturalist to learn about the Girl Scouts’ contributions to our parks while strolling through a forest they helped grow decades ago. Afterward, enjoy a sweet treat.

FR/Brushwood: 4955 Townsend Rd., Richfield

Beginning Monday, March 3

SELF-GUIDED: STORYBOOK TRAIL

Enjoy learning about the maple sugaring process while following a self-guided story trail based on the book, “At Grandpa’s Sugar Bush.” Along the way, visitors can see our own sap-collecting buckets, tubing and more! Look for it along Maple Loop Trail March 3 through March 26 LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

KINDEREALM: FOSSILS

Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions are invited to learn all about fossils and how they help us recreate the past. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. (3/)

Wednesday, March 8 a.m. & 

2 p.m.

LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Friday, March 7, 0:30 – :30 a.m.

SLNC: 4 Ira Ave., Akron

Wednesday, March 22 0:30 – :30 a.m.

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

Wednesday, March 5, 0 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Nature Journaling For Adults

Join our interpretive artist for an inspiring lesson in nature journaling as a technique for practicing mindfulness and wellness.

FASN: 828 Smith Rd., Akron (3/8)

Wednesday, March 5, 2 – :30 p.m.

INSPIRATIONAL HIKE

Are you inspired by the splendors of spring? Do you find still ponds and blooming meadows poetic? Find inspiration as you hike Alder Trail with a naturalist in this season of new beginnings. GYH/Pioneer: 550 Frazier Ave., Akron

Wednesday, March 5,  – 2 p.m.

VIRTUAL: NATURE JOURNALING FOR ADULTS

Join our interpretive artist for an inspiring virtual lesson in nature journaling as a technique for practicing mindfulness and wellness. A Zoom invitation will be emailed to participants after registering. (3/8)

Thursday, March 6, 0 a.m. – 2 p.m. NATURE COLLAGE

Let’s make a beautiful nature-inspired collage using recycled paper! Join our interpretive artist for this easy, fun lesson. All materials will be provided. FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron (3/9)

Thursday, March 6,  – 3 p.m.

VIRTUAL: NATURE COLLAGE

Let’s make a beautiful nature-inspired collage using recycled paper! Join our interpretive artist for this easy, fun lesson. A list of materials and a Zoom invite will be emailed after registering. (3/9)

Friday, March 7, 0:30 –  a.m.

SPRING NATURE TALES

Spring is almost here! Young children and their adult companions can celebrate its arrival in an interactive, spring-themed story time. Make it a fun, family-friendly morning by exploring the park or visiting the nature play area after the program. LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Friday, March 7, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.

AMAZING AMPHIBIANS

Discover the wild world of amphibians, some of spring’s most important critters. We’ll also meet and greet a few of Ohio’s native species. FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Saturday, March 8, 0 – :30 a.m.

DIY SPRING WREATH

Decorate a straw wreath using berries, nuts and greens, provided by SMP. The rest is up to you! Bring your own unique seasonal accents (faux eggs, buttons, etc.) from home to complete a beautiful spring wreath to take with you. One wreath per person or family. FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron (3/0)

Saturday, March 8,  – 2:30 p.m.

TURKEY VULTURES:

ROCKIN’ & GLIDIN’!

Join a naturalist to learn about turkey vultures’ unusual habits, extraordinary adaptations and important role in our ecosystem. Following the presentation, we’ll hit the trail in hopes of watching them in action as they rock and glide on thermals overhead. LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Saturday, March 8, 2 – 3:30 p.m.

VERNAL EQUINOX HIKE

Join a naturalist as we hike .6-miles on Celebration Trail to welcome spring and see what is emerging as we approach the vernal equinox. We will talk about what the vernal equinox means and share what excites us about the changing season. CV/Valley View:

22 Cuyahoga St., Akron

Sunday, March 9, 2 – 2 p.m.

SPRING HAPPENINGS AT SMP

Join SMP’s lead naturalist to learn about all the wonderful things going on in and around our parks. After, we’ll take a hike to search for signs of spring. FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Sunday, March 9, 2 – 3 p.m.

Diy Pinecone Table Wreath

Craft a pinecone wreath adorned with nature items for a beautiful centerpiece for the table. All materials will be provided. SLNC: 4 Ira Ave., Akron (3/0)

Sunday, March 9, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

IS THE “POOL” OPEN YET?

Join a naturalist to see what’s swimming in the vernal pool. We will look for salamanders, frogs, worms, leeches and other mysterious creatures. We will learn why vernal pools are such an important part of the ecosystem. Boots and flashlights are highly recommended. LP/Pond Brook: 3973 E. Aurora Rd., Twinsburg

Wednesday, March 22, 6:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Migration Madness

Field Trip

Join park naturalists on a bus trip to Wayne County for a morning of migrating waterfowl and shorebirds in the wetlands of Killbuck Marsh and Funk Bottoms. Pack binoculars, spotting scopes, snacks and a lunch. Dress for all day comfort out in the elements. Cost: $55/person. FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron (2/23) $

Wednesday, March 22, 7 – 8 p.m.

MEET ME IN THE GARDEN: GARDEN DESIGN

Garden design, where to begin? Megan has loved gardening since she was 5 years old. After getting a degree in psychology, she decided to focus on plant therapy. She became a Summit County Master Gardener and opened a design business. FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Thursday, March 23, 0 –  a.m.

LIL’ SPROUTS

This biweekly program is designed to engage children ages 3 to 5 and an accompanying adult in the wonderful world of gardening. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what’s growing and ready to harvest! Adults are asked to actively participate with children during the program. SLNC: 4 Ira Ave., Akron (3/2)

Thursday, March 23 a.m.

HOMESCHOOLERS: COPYCATTING NATURE

Homeschoolers ages 7 to 4: Through hands-on games, microscopes and more we’ll discover how scientists are defying gravity, traveling at high speeds and even regenerating brain cells! Discover what we’ve learned and what we’ve yet to uncover from our greatest teacher: Mother Nature. LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg (3/5)

Thursday, March 23, 0:30 –  a.m.

Hello Spring

Curious youngsters and an accompanying adult will meet a naturalist for a hike along the paved trail to explore the arrival of spring with stories, movement and more! Strollers are welcome. FASN/Seneca Deck: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Friday, March 24, 9 –  a.m.

WATERFOWL WATCH

Spring is a great time to view ducks, geese, sandhill cranes and other migratory birds. New and experienced birdwatchers can join a naturalist for a chance to view these birds during spring migration. We will begin at the Tinkers Creek Area and then caravan to Tinkers Creek State Nature Preserve. Bring binoculars or a spotting scope. LP/Tinkers Creek: 0303 Aurora-Hudson Rd., Streetsboro

Friday, March 24, 0:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.

ANIMAL BABIES

Children ages 3 and up can learn about the baby animals emerging in spring with a short lesson, story and craft (while supplies last). Children must be accompanied by an adult. FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Friday, March 24, 8 – 9 p.m.

Friday Night Frogs

Venture out on a night hike in search of frogs and discover the important roles amphibians play in our world. Please bring a headlamp or flashlight. BHT/Young Road: 5090 Young Rd., Stow

Saturday, March 25,  a.m. – 2 p.m.

Soft Landing With Native Plants

Learn about native plants that provide critical shelter and habitat for one or more lifecycle stages of moths, butterflies and other beneficial insects. Consider adding them below trees in your own yard! FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Sunday, March 26, 0 –  a.m.

WHY ARE NATIVE PLANTS SO IMPORTANT?

Discover the beauty and benefits of native plants and how you can make a positive impact on the planet by planting some in your own back yard! SLNC: 4 Ira Ave., Akron

Tuesday, March 28,  a.m. – 2 p.m.

WEEKDAY WALKERS

Individuals of all abilities are encouraged to join us as we stroll Overlook Trail. This paved half-mile loop is perfect for either a short walk or multiple trips around. Reach the overlook for a breathtaking view that will have you returning for more. CV/Overlook: 354 Sackett Ave., Akron

Friday, March 3,  – 3 p.m.

HIKING SPREE

SHIELD ASSISTANCE

Is attaching the hiking spree shield more challenging than actually hiking the eight trails?

Summit Metro Parks volunteers will gladly attach it for you at no charge FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Friday, March 3, 4 – 5:30 p.m.

WHO’S FOOLIN’ WHO?

Hike Redwing Trail with a naturalist to learn about animals whose stories fool us, and separate fact from fiction. F/Tuscarawas Meadows: 2620 Harrington Rd., Akron

Saturday, March 25, 2 – 4 p.m. & Sunday, March 26, 2 – 4 p.m.

Maple Mania Open House

Everyone loves maple syrup! Join a naturalist as we learn the ins and outs of maple syrup production. See how the trees are tapped, how sap is collected and how it’s boiled down to that sweet amber syrup we all enjoy on our pancakes, waffles and ice cream. The best part? You can satisfy your sweet tooth by sampling our fresh, local syrup! LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Saturday, March 25, 2 – 3:30 p.m.

SPA-RIFFIC GOODS

Life is full of stressors, so treat yourself to some relaxation! Discover how easy it is to create your own spa goods at home using different herbs. Participants will be able to make and take different sample products like bath bombs, bath bags and scrubs to make any day at home feel like a spa day.

SLNC: 4 Ira Ave., Akron (3/7)

Friday, March 3 5 – 6:30 p.m. & 7 – 8:30 p.m.

Introduction To Archery

Participants can learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our temporary indoor range. This program is good for beginning and practiced archers. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be 50 inches or taller. Cost: $0/person. F/Coventry Oaks: 40 Axline Ave., Akron (3/22) $

Friday, March 3, 8 – 9:30 p.m.

FRIDAY NIGHT FROGS

Venture out on a night hike in search of frogs and discover the important roles amphibians play in our world. Please bring a headlamp or flashlight. MF/Tallmadge Meadows: 088 North Ave., Tallmadge

Saturday, April , 0:30 – :30 a.m. YOGA FOR KIDS: ALL ABOUT BIRDS

Ages 3 and up can join a certified yoga instructor and naturalist for this program. We will learn about nature, the seasons and animals through stories, songs, games and yoga poses. Bring a yoga mat, towel or blanket. FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Saturday, April ,  a.m. –  p.m.

Foolish

TRICKS IN NATURE

Drop by the outdoor shelter to learn how and why nature plays “tricks” with shapes and colors, then explore Maple Loop Trail to see how many “foolish” hidden items you can spot along the way! LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Beginning Sunday, April 2

SELF-GUIDED HIKE: BIRD JOKES TO QUACK YOU UP!

Does cabin fever have you down? Get outside and follow along this self-guided hike between April 2 and April 6. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and some classic “dad” jokes along the way. Quick, what kind of flower grows on your face? Tu-lips! F/Tuscarawas Meadows: 2620 Harrington Rd., Akron

Sunday, April 2, 2 – 3 p.m.

DROP-IN DISCOVERY: AWESOME AMPHIBIANS

Children and their adult companions can hop on over to learn about the frogs, toads and salamanders that are out and about this season. Meet one of our resident amphibians, participate in some hands-on activities and make a simple craft. LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Sunday, April 2,  – 2:30 p.m.

SPRING SIGHTS & SOUNDS

Get ready to smell, listen and feel as we take a leisurely hike along Rock Creek Trail to explore the change of seasons with our senses. FR/Brushwood: 4955 Townsend Rd., Richfield

Tuesday, April 4,  – 3 p.m.

Nature Drawing For Adults

Join our interpretive artist for an entertaining lesson in nature drawing. Bring a sketchbook, pencil and a sense of humor. Beginners are welcome. LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg (3/29)

Wednesday, April 5, 0 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Nature Drawing For Adults

Join our interpretive artist for an entertaining lesson in nature drawing. Bring a sketchbook, pencil and a sense of humor. Beginners are welcome. FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron (3/29)

Wednesday, April 5,  – 2:30 p.m.

Weekday Walkers

Individuals of all ages are invited to join us for a .6-mile walk on Celebration Trail. On this basic, easy trail, you’ll observe Himelright Lodge, a renovated historic barn, see a restored section of the Cuyahoga River and enjoy the breathtaking vistas, plants and wildlife Valley View offers as spring takes hold here in Northeast Ohio. CV/Valley View: 22 Cuyahoga St., Akron

Wednesday, April 5,  – 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. (3/29)

Thursday, April 6, 0 a.m. – 2 p.m. NATURE

Drawing For Adults

Join our interpretive artist for an entertaining lesson in nature drawing. Bring a sketchbook, pencil and a sense of humor. Beginners are welcome. SLNC: 4 Ira Ave., Akron (3/29)

Friday, April 7, 8 – 9:30 p.m.

DRIVE-IN: ASTRONOMY NIGHT

Join a naturalist for a drive-in style program on the science and history of our night sky. Learn what a lightyear is, why stars twinkle and how to navigate the night sky by looking for planets, constellations and other objects. You will be in your car just like the old drivein movies, enjoying popcorn while listening through your car radio. Arrive early to get a good parking spot! Weather permitting, we will scan the sky to see what might be visible after the presentation. LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Saturday, April 8, 8:30 – 0:30 a.m.

Waterfowl Watch

Spring is a great time to view ducks, geese, swans and other waterfowl. New and experienced birdwatchers can join us as we explore Eagle Point and Seven Ponds Trail during migration. Bring binoculars or a spotting scope.

LP/Tinkers Creek SNP: 230 Old Mill Rd., Aurora

Balloflex

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!

2:30 –

VIRTUAL : 849 6465 8634

Monday, April 3

Thursday, April 6

Monday, April 0

Wednesday, April 2

Thursday, April 3

Monday, April 7

Thursday, April 20

Monday, April 24

Wednesday, April 26

Thursday, April 27

Saturday, April 8, 0 – :30 a.m.

HIKING AMONG BLUEBELLS

Enjoy a hike along the river with a naturalist in hopes of seeing a tremendous amount of bluebells and other beautiful wildflowers along the way. Everett Road Covered Bridge: 2370 Everett Road, Peninsula

Saturday, April 8, 2 – :30 p.m.

BIRD NERDS: SPARROWS

Bird enthusiasts of all kinds are invited to join us as we explore a new group of birds each month of 2023. We’re talking adaptations, behavior, identification and more. Bring binoculars if you have them, because after the presentation we’ll hit the trail to put our new knowledge into practice. FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Saturday, April 8,  – 2:30 p.m.

HAS AKRON LOST ITS MARBLES?

Historically, what has emerged from our beloved City of Akron? Within the boundaries, there were many visionaries. Come learn with a naturalist about inventions and ideas that blossomed in Akron, like marbles, along with other fun parts of Akron’s history as we hike a portion of the Towpath. SLNC: 4 Ira Ave., Akron

Saturday, April 8, 7:30 – 9 p.m.

Dance With The Woodcock

Discover the amazing woodcock and attempt to witness the male bird’s spectacular courtship flight over the fields as the sun sets for the evening. Listen for the “peent” and whistling sounds the male birds make as they try to attract a mate. LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Sunday, April 9, 2 – 3 p.m.

Native Plant Open House

Drop-in to discover the beauty, resilience and ecological importance of native plants through a variety of interactive table-top activities. A naturalist will be on hand to answer questions and provide landscaping insight. Seed packets will be available, while supplies last. FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Sunday, April 9, 2 – 4 p.m.

SPRING CRAFT: DIY KITES

Take advantage of the spring winds by making and flying your very own kite. The breeze blowing off Summit Lake will send our creations soaring! SLNC: 4 Ira Ave., Akron

Thursday, April 3, 0 –  a.m. LIL’ SPROUTS

This biweekly program is designed to engage children ages 3 to 5 and an accompanying adult in the wonderful world of gardening. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what’s growing and ready to harvest! Adults are asked to actively participate with children during the program. SLNC: 4 Ira Ave., Akron (4/6)

Thursday, April 3,  a.m. –  p.m.

Feeding Time

Lettuce, worms, tomatoes and roaches … yum! Stop by the animal room and get upclose to our animal ambassadors as they eat a healthy lunch. FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Friday, April 4, 2 – :30 p.m.

Senior Saunter

Whether you’re a senior by age or just want to appreciate the outdoors at a leisurely pace, join us for a stroll as we enjoy nature as it is turning green again. Bring a mug and enjoy a beverage and more nature conversation afterward. LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Saturday, April 5, 2 – :30 p.m.

Geology Of The Gorge

Join a naturalist as we hike the .8-mile Glens Trail. We will examine its geological features and learn how the Gorge and Cuyahoga River were formed. Sturdy shoes are recommended — this trail is rated “difficult.”

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

Saturday, April 5, 2 – :30 p.m.

Wildflower Hike

Join a naturalist on a -mile hike for an upclose look at spring’s beautiful wildflowers and learn how to identify these short-term visitors. FASN/Visitors Center: 828 Smith Rd., Akron

Saturday, April 5, 7 – 8:30 p.m.

NIGHT NOISE HIKE

Discover the source of all that nighttime racket! Grab your flashlight and get an upclose experience searching for amphibians. SR/Old Portage: 300 Sand Run Pkwy., Akron

Sunday, April 6, 2 – :30 p.m.

Nature Drawing For Kids

Join our interpretive artist for this entertaining lesson in nature drawing for kids ages 6 to 2. All materials will be provided.

FASN: 828 Smith Rd., Akron (4/6)

Sunday, April 6, 2:30 – 2 p.m.

Wetland Walk

Spring has finally come, and so have the birds and amphibians. Join a naturalist for a walk around this beautiful wetland to see Mother Nature waking up. GYH/Pioneer: 550 Frazier Ave., Akron

Sunday, April 6, 2 – 3:30 p.m.

BACK YARDS GONE WILD: COMPOSTING 0

Whether you’re new to composting or hoping to improve your process, this program is for you! Learn the basics of starting, maintaining and troubleshooting a compost pile or barrel at home. Soon you’ll be turning food scraps and yard clippings into the richest soil around! LP/Nature Center: 9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Sunday, April 6, 2 – 3 p.m.

VIRTUAL: NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS

Join our interpretive artist for this entertaining virtual lesson in nature drawing for kids ages 6 to 2. All you need is a pencil and paper. A Zoom invitation will be emailed to participants after registration. (4/6)