Summit Metro Parks We're Your Back Yard

Programs & Events

Program & Events Calendar

To join a virtual program, visit www.zoom.com and enter the Zoom meeting ID.

Summit Metro Parks staff can adapt many programs to be accessible to anyone who would like to participate. Please make the request at the time of registration and/or at least 72 hours prior to the program. Contact us at 330-865-8065.

On the rare occasion of a program cancelation or change, please visit us on social media to see the latest information.

MayJuneJuly

Leaf Icon Monday, July 01, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

VIRTUAL: PLASTIC FREE JULY


Join us online to learn why limiting plastic is important and take part in the growing movement to reduce plastic use. Join the challenge and "choose to refuse" single-use plastic during the month of July. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Tuesday, July 02, 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM

SUMMIT LAKE CYCLE & TOUR


Browse a variety of fresh produce and sweets at the Summit Lake Neighborhood Farmer's Market before the ride. As we ride, we will make stops to discuss the neighborhood's history and evolution. This is a casually paced, 6- to 8-mile ride. Please bring your own helmet and bicycle. Helmets are required. TT/Summit Lake

Leaf Icon Tuesday, July 02, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

MUSIC BY THE LAKE


Enjoy a performance by the Metro Parks Ensemble. Please bring your own chairs and blankets, and a picnic if you prefer. Cycling without Age trishaw bikes will be available beginning at 6 p.m. to carry riders with limited mobility on a bench seat for an unobstructed view of nature and the feeling of riding a bike outdoors. Cycling without Age is available with the support of the Andrea Rose Teodosio Foundation. The concert will be canceled if it rains. Call 330-865-8060 if wet weather is in the forecast. Music by the Lake is presented by Wayside Furniture. MF/Lake Area

Leaf Icon Wednesday, July 03, 9:00 PM - 10:30 PM

FANTASTIC FIREFLIES


What’s better than fireworks? Fireflies! Enjoy basking in the glow of nature’s light show as we hike the 1.6-mile Prairie Trail looking for the many firefly species that call Summit County home. SFB

Leaf Icon Thursday, July 04, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

A "R-EAGLE" CELEBRATION


Join us on Independence Day to celebrate the eagle, a raptor revered by many cultures as the regal "king of the sky." Enjoy hands-on activities inside, take a self-guided hike and make your own s'more over a campfire (while supplies last). LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, July 04, 8:30 PM - 10:00 PM

FIREFLY FIREWORKS


Enjoy nature's bioluminescent fireworks this holiday! Learn about this charismatic insect through engaging activities, then catch some fireflies of your own. Please bring your own flashlight and bug jar. Enjoy sparklers, while supplies last. MF/Tallmadge Meadows

Leaf Icon Friday, July 05, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

WILDFLOWER WALK


Summer is in full bloom! Take a walk among the wildflowers through portions of Seneca Trail, the Rock & Herb Garden and the Arboretum as we discuss and identify Ohio's native wildflowers. FASN

Leaf Icon Friday, July 05, 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM

SUMMER NATURE TALES


Young children and their adult companions can enjoy an interactive summer-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

Leaf Icon Friday, July 05, 9:30 PM - 11:00 PM

MOTHS OF LIBERTY PARK


Did you know moths outnumber butterflies by about 20 to one? Join a naturalist to learn how to use black lights to attract these amazing creatures and observe their beautiful colors, shapes and patterns up close. Bring a flashlight and camera if you'd like to take photos. Bug spray is highly recommended. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, July 06, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

INTRO TO STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING


Learn how to paddleboard and take a guided tour around the lake with a certified instructor. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. All equipment will be provided. Location subject to change based on water conditions. Cost: $15/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 6/27: Register here. SLNC

Leaf Icon Saturday, July 06, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

INTRO TO STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING


Learn how to paddleboard and take a guided tour around the lake with a certified instructor. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. All equipment will be provided. Location subject to change based on water conditions. Cost: $15/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 6/27: Register here. SLNC

Leaf Icon Sunday, July 07, 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM

SELF-GUIDED STORYBOOK TRAIL: VULTURE VIEW


Enjoy some exercise and fun exploration following a self-guided story trail based on the book "Vulture View." Look for it along the 1.2-mile Coyote Run Trail between July 7 and 28. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, July 07, 9:30 AM - 1:30 PM

RECREATION OPEN HOUSE


Have you ever wanted to try archery, kayaking or fishing? Now's your chance! Join us for a morning of hands-on recreational opportunities. All equipment and materials are provided on a first come, first-served basis. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and dress to be outdoors and get wet. Archery: ages 9 and up. Kayaking: ages 13 and up, must be able to swim. Fishing: all ages, current Ohio fishing license required for adults. LP/Tinkers Creek

Leaf Icon Sunday, July 07, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

STORYTIME IN THE PARKS: ON DUCK POND


Waterfowl are wonderful! Bring your 2- to 6-year-old to enjoy a story, craft and games - all about ducks! SLNC

Leaf Icon Sunday, July 07, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

BUTTERFLY BLITZ


Butterfly beauts have taken flight! Enjoy a brief presentation about these charismatic insects, then hit the trail to see butterflies up-close. FASN/Seneca Deck

Leaf Icon Monday, July 08, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

FOSSILS FOR KIDS


Kids and their adult companions can join a naturalist while exploring the stream to hunt for fossils and learn about the ancient creatures that once called this park home. Dress to get wet; closed-toe shoes required. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Tuesday, July 09, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

MUSIC BY THE LAKE


Enjoy a performance by the Metro Parks Ensemble. Please bring your own chairs and blankets, and a picnic if you prefer. The concert will be canceled if it rains. Call 330-865-8060 if wet weather is in the forecast. Music by the Lake is presented by Wayside Furniture. SC/Lake House

Leaf Icon Wednesday, July 10, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

DRAWING OUTDOORS


Bring your drawing 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 in the event of inclement weather. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, July 11, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

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. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 7/3: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, July 11, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

LIL' SPROUTS


This biweekly program is designed to engage young children and accompanying adults 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. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 6/28: 330-865-8065. SLNC

Leaf Icon Thursday, July 11, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

SENIOR CYCLING


Join like-minded senior SMP supporters as we ride and explore various trails. We will gather to socialize and determine the route, distance and pace before rolling out. Expect to ride at least 10 to 12 miles, at a casual (10-12 mph) pace. Please bring your own helmet and bicycle. Helmets are required. Arrive 15 minutes early to check in. BHT/SR 303

Leaf Icon Thursday, July 11, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

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. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 7/3: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Thursday, July 11, 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

KIDS IN THE GARDEN


Join us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron for this weekly gardening program for children of all ages. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what's growing and ready to harvest in the garden. SLNC

Leaf Icon Thursday, July 11, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

GOOD GARDEN TALKS: PEST MANAGEMENT


Join us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron and OSU Extension to learn to encourage wildlife and manage for the undesirable critters in the vegetable garden. In the event of inclement weather, the program will be held indoors. SLNC

Leaf Icon Thursday, July 11, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

SNAKES FOR KIDS


Kids and their adult companions can join us outdoors to learn why snakes aren't scary, they're amazing! You'll even get the chance to meet one of our real snake ambassadors that lives at the nature center. FASN/Seneca Deck

Leaf Icon Friday, July 12, 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

CLEVER CORVIDS


Ravens and crows and jays, oh my! Enjoy a brief presentation on corvids followed by a bird walk on the 1.2-mile Pheasant Run Trail in hopes of spotting them. SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Friday, July 12, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

GONE FISHIN'


Come try your hand at fishing! We'll provide the rods and bait, so all you have to do is show up. Anyone over the age of 16 will need a valid Ohio fishing license.  FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Friday, July 12, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

EVENING RIVER WALK


Join a naturalist on this 1.2-mile hike overlooking the Cuyahoga River. Along the way, we will discuss why this is such an important waterway both for us and local wildlife. CV/Oxbow

Leaf Icon Saturday, July 13, 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM

GRASSLAND BIRD EXPLORATION


Join a naturalist in collaboration with The University of Akron Field Station to search for meadowlarks, bobolinks and other exciting grassland birds. Some binoculars will be provided. Meet at the field station, past the main parking lot off Ira Rd. and all the way down the driveway. The University of Akron Field Station: 4240 Ira Rd. Akron, OH 44333

Leaf Icon Saturday, July 13, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

INTRO TO MOUNTAIN BIKING


Are you mountain bike curious but nervous to hit the trail by yourself? Then this program is for you! Join us to go over mountain biking safety and trail tips, followed by a ride on the beginner and moderate mountain biking loops. Please bring your own helmet and bicycle. Helmets are required. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 7/5: 330-865-8065. HH/Mountain Bike

Leaf Icon Saturday, July 13, 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

KAYAK OPEN HOUSE


Stop by to learn basic kayak techniques and take a short self-guided paddle under the guidance of certified instructors. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. Wear clothes that can get wet and bring a water bottle. All equipment will be provided. Space is limited and kayaks are available on a first come, first-served basis. Location subject to change based on water conditions. SLNC

Leaf Icon Saturday, July 13, 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM

FAMILY CAMP WORKSHOP


Families are invited to join naturalists for a fun-filled summer camp experience! Try your hand at canoeing, s'more-making, tent-pitching, fishing, a nature activity and craft. All necessary equipment provided. Optional: pack a lunch or snacks and folding chairs to relax between activities! ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 6/26: 330-865-8065. SC/Lake House

Leaf Icon Saturday, July 13, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

WOODLAND MUSHROOMS


A walk in the woods can reveal otherwise overlooked wonders of nature. Join a naturalist on a hike to discover the beauty, variety and interesting ecology of mushrooms. Sturdy shoes, bug spray and drinking water are recommended. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, July 14, 1:00 PM - 3:30 PM

WHEN IS A BUG NOT A BUG?


Join a naturalist as we scour the plants and hedgerows for bugs, caterpillars, spiders, lady beetles and other cool critters! 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

Leaf Icon Tuesday, July 16, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

MUSIC IN THE PARK


Enjoy a performance by the Metro Parks Ensemble. Please bring your own chairs and blankets, and a picnic if you prefer. The concert will be moved indoors if it rains. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Wednesday, July 17, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: MOTHS


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions will take a closer look at what makes these amazing, night-flying, butterfly cousins so special. A craft and short walk are included. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 7/10: 330-865-8065. FASN

Leaf Icon Thursday, July 18, 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

KIDS IN THE GARDEN


Join us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron for this weekly gardening program for children of all ages. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what's growing and ready to harvest in the garden. SLNC

Leaf Icon Thursday, July 18, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

GOOD GARDEN TALKS: PEST MANAGEMENT


Join us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron and OSU Extension to learn to encourage wildlife and manage for the undesirable critters in the vegetable garden. In the event of inclement weather, the program will be held indoors. GYH/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Friday, July 19, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

MUSSELS FOR KIDS


Hiding beneath the rocks and mud of our streambeds, these humble bivalves help keep our waterways clean and clear. Join a naturalist to learn about these one-foot wonders through a shell-full of crafts and demos! ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 7/12: 330-865-8065. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Friday, July 19, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

NATURE SAUNTER


Appreciate the outdoors at a leisurely pace with a stroll along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail to observe and enjoy summertime nature. Enjoy a beverage and nature conversation afterward. WH

Leaf Icon Saturday, July 20, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

BIRD NERDS: ANATOMY


Newbies and experts alike are welcome to join us in this lively series for a fun, approachable discussion on a new bird topic each month. This month, we'll delve into the unique adaptations of the bird's body that make them masters of their trade. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, July 20, 8:30 PM - 10:00 PM

SOUNDS OF THE NIGHT


As our vision becomes unreliable in the dark of night, a cavalcade of wildlife emerge to take advantage of the daily transformation. Join a naturalist to hike the 2-mile Chippewa Trail and listen for the phenomena of night. Flashlights aren’t necessary, but sturdy hiking boots are recommended. SC/Big Oak

Leaf Icon Sunday, July 21, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

INTRO TO STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING


Learn how to paddleboard and take a guided tour around the lake with a certified instructor. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. All equipment will be provided. Location subject to change based on water conditions. Cost: $15/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 7/12: Register here. SC/Lake House

Leaf Icon Sunday, July 21, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

INTRO TO STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING


Learn how to paddleboard and take a guided tour around the lake with a certified instructor. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. All equipment will be provided. Location subject to change based on water conditions. Cost: $15/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 7/12: Register here. SC/Lake House

Leaf Icon Sunday, July 21, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

NATIONAL ICE CREAM DAY CYCLE


Celebrate National Ice Cream Day! We'll ride north at a casual pace, stopping at Skoops Ice Cream for a sweet treat before returning. This is a 12- to 15-mile ride. Please bring a bicycle, helmet and money for ice cream. Helmets are required. TT/Franklin

Leaf Icon Sunday, July 21, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

BACK YARDS GONE WILD: EDIBLE LANDSCAPING


Join a naturalist to think beyond tomatoes and learn about how native fruits, nuts, berries and more can make attractive, edible additions to your outdoor space and come back year after year. After the presentation, all are invited to take a short stroll to see some of these species growing wild. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, July 21, 8:30 PM - 10:00 PM

FULL BUCK MOON HIKE


Hike with a naturalist to discover nature at night. Enjoy seeing the full moon rise and learn why Indigenous Peoples called it a "buck" moon. CV/Valley View

Leaf Icon Monday, July 22, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

CHIPMUNKS & SQUIRRELS FOR KIDS


Kids and their adult companions are invited to learn about our acrobatic neighbors through activities and a .25-mile hike along Maple Loop Trail in search of these "nutty" creatures, their nests and the food they like best. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Tuesday, July 23, 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM

CHRISTMAS IN JULY AT THE SUMMIT LAKE FARMERS MARKET


Bring the family out to this inclusive workshop to re- and upcycle bicycle parts into Christmas ornament keepsakes. Cookies and cocoa will fill your bellies while the sounds of Christmas fill the air. TT/Summit Lake

Leaf Icon Wednesday, July 24, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

DRAWING OUTDOORS


Bring your drawing 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 in the event of inclement weather. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, July 24, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: MOTHS


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions will take a closer look at what makes these amazing, night-flying, butterfly cousins so special. A craft and short walk are included. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 7/10: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, July 25, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

LIL' SPROUTS


This biweekly program is designed to engage young children and accompanying adults 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. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 6/28: 330-865-8065. SLNC

Leaf Icon Thursday, July 25, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

SENIOR CYCLING


Join like-minded senior SMP supporters as we ride and explore various trails. We will gather to socialize and determine the route, distance and pace before rolling out. Expect to ride at least 10 to 12 miles at a casual (10-12 mph) pace. Please bring your own helmet and bicycle. Helmets are required. Arrive 15 minutes early to check in. TT/Botzum

Leaf Icon Thursday, July 25, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS FOR KIDS


Kids and their adult companions: Join a naturalist to learn about the crawling and slithering creatures found in our parks. Meet some of our animal ambassadors before taking a walk in search of turtles, frogs and more in their natural habitat. FASN/Seneca Deck

Leaf Icon Thursday, July 25, 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

KIDS IN THE GARDEN


Join us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron for this weekly gardening program for children of all ages. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what's growing and ready to harvest in the garden. SLNC

Leaf Icon Friday, July 26, 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM

SUMMER NATURE TALES


Young children and their adult companions can enjoy an interactive summer-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

Leaf Icon Friday, July 26, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

LEARN FIRE BUILDING


Whether you need to stay warm on a camping trip or just have a hankering for some s’mores, fire building is a fun and valuable skill. Learn the basics of fire building and make your own mini fires using various methods. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Recommended for ages 8 and up. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 7/18: 330-865-8065. SC/Lake House

Leaf Icon Saturday, July 27, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

THE POETRY PATH: CREATIVE WRITING & HIKING WORKSHOP WITH POET XPOSYUR


Ages 10 and up: Hike and explore using all five senses to contemplate life's journey. The workshop will encourage participants to pen poetry about life's challenges, pivots and aspirations while surrounded by nature. Journals and writing tools will be provided. This program is presented in partnership with Akron Black Artist Guild. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 7/17: 330-865-8065. MF/Lake Area

Leaf Icon Sunday, July 28, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

INTRO TO KAYAKING


Learn how to kayak and take a guided tour around the lake with a certified instructor. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. All equipment will be provided. Location subject to change based on water conditions. Cost: $15/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 7/19: Register here. NR/Lot C4

Leaf Icon Sunday, July 28, 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM

FAMILY CAMP WORKSHOP


Families are invited to join naturalists for a for a fun-filled summer camp experience! Try your hand at canoeing, s'more-making, tent-pitching, fishing, a nature activity and a craft. All necessary equipment provided. Optional: pack a lunch or snacks and some folding chairs to relax in between activities! ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 7/18: 330-865-8065. MF/Lake Area

Leaf Icon Sunday, July 28, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

INTRO TO KAYAKING


Learn how to kayak and take a guided tour around the lake with a certified instructor. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. All equipment will be provided. Location subject to change based on water conditions. Cost: $15/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 7/19: Register here. NR/Lot C4

Leaf Icon Sunday, July 28, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

TWICE AS NICE HIKE


There's more than one way to experience the same trail. Join a naturalist for a brisk, health-focused first lap followed by a slower exploration of Parcours Trail. Total distance is 3.4 miles. GYH/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Wednesday, July 31, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

KINDEREALM: MOTHS


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions will take a closer look at what makes these amazing, night-flying, butterfly cousins so special. A craft and short walk are included. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 7/10: 330-865-8065. SLNC

Leaf Icon Wednesday, July 31, 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM

STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING OPEN HOUSE


Stop by to learn basic paddleboard techniques and take a short self-guided paddle under the guidance of certified instructors. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. All equipment will be provided. Space is limited and paddleboards are available on a first come, first-served basis. NR/Lot C4