Autumn 2016 - Metro Parks

Transcription

Autumn 2016
Your Metro Parks
Fall is a great time to jump in a pile of leaves
at one of Metro Parks’ Natural Play Areas
Jennifer Owens
Community
Climbing clinics (for beginners)
Yoga
Food vendors
Slackline walk
Movie (starts after dark)
EVEREST
Marshall Reese
Daniel White
Crash pad sumo wrestling
Climbing competitions
SCIOTO AUDUBON METRO PARK
Sat Sept 10, 2pm
Autumn 2016
Parkscope
Cover Photo: Girl in a leaf pile, by Kim Strosnider
8
Social Media & the nature experience
You can enjoy the beauty of nature in
your parks and still take your social media
with you.
12
Favorite Metro Parks places
Staff describe some of their favorite
autumn places or activities in the parks.
14
Metro Parks Guide
Your complete guide to the Metro Parks
system with map, directions to parks
and park hours.
17
Metro Parks Autumn Programs
A park-by-park listing of programs for all
ages in September, October & November.
Back
cover
Metro Parks Album
A quarterly gallery of images from some
of the area’s best photographers.
Riders on the bridle trail at Prairie Oaks, John Nixon
Spider web and sunrise at Three Creeks, Barb McGilvray
6
Walnut Woods sparkles with brilliance
The former tree nursery that became a park
delivers some of the most vibrant autumn vistas.
Established in 1945, Metro Parks operates
19 parks in seven Central Ohio counties.
Metro Parks protects more than 27,000
acres of land and water and offers yearround recreational and educational oppor
tunities for youth and adults. Facilities
and programs are available to the public
free-of-charge—made possible by voter
support of the 2009 Metro Parks levy.
Metro Parks is a separate political subdivision of the state of Ohio organized under
Ohio Revised Code, Section 1545. Metro
Parks’ Board of Park Commissioners,
composed of three citizens who serve
three-year terms without compensation,
governs the Park District. Board members
are appointed by the Judge of the Probate
Court of Franklin County.
Metro Parks’ Board of Park Commission
ers meets monthly. Meetings are open
to the public. Visit metroparks.net for
meeting time, dates and location.
Board of Park Commissioners
Greg S. Lashutka
Jim McGregor
J. Jeffrey McNealey
Executive Director
Tim Moloney
www.metroparks.net 3
Pokémon is strictly here and now but the
Plan heralds a bright future for Metro Parks
F
or over 70 years we have been preserving and
restoring thousands of acres of land for the enjoyment of all. However, who would have ever
thought these last bastions of nature would be overrun
with our visitors hunting virtual pocket monsters.
Yes, I know the world is caught up in the craze that is
Pokémon GO and Metro Parks has become Pokémon
central. I wonder how the founders of this park district
would feel about this craze?
I can guarantee you, the original board of park
commissioners would never have thought that something such as a video game would be a contributor to
getting thousands of people visiting our parks every
day. But this is what is happening. We are seeing daily
park attendance numbers tripled, parking lots nearing
full, and new visitors to our parks searching for those
elusive creatures of fantasy.
Is this a good thing? Well in my opinion, anything
that gets people off their couches, exploring the
outdoors and getting some long overdue exercise is
good for everyone. Our parks were created for opportunities such as this. I am hearing daily reports
from staff about positive visitor interactions with new
Dan Bissonette
visitors enjoying their park in a way which they never
considered before. Our overall hope is these new visitors will have a positive experience and discover the grandeur of the park district which
has been developed for their enjoyment.
Having all of these new visitors does come with a few challenges and our staff has already had their fair share of interactions. While Metro
Parks are always open and available for your enjoyment, common courtesy and general safety must be part of these activities. Our rangers
are keeping an eye out for distracted drivers and even distracted walkers. To assist with the craze, our parks have already begun applying
their own spin. Blendon Woods hosts Pokémon-themed programs on Sept 10, Oct 9 and Nov 12. Other parks may organize spontaneous
programs too, so keep tabs on our social media sites for details and announcements.
As exciting as the Pokémon craze is, something else even more exciting is also getting ready to roll out in Metro Parks. After a year-long
process, staff has developed a strategic planning document to help us guide the district for our next 70 years. The “Plan,” as we refer to it,
is a comprehensive document to be used at all levels of the organization and throughout each park. The Plan was built utilizing input from
our users, our staff, and the residents of Franklin County to give general direction on how to manage your parks. Some early insight from
the plan shows a great demand for continued expansion and access points to the Greenways, reinvestments in some of our aging infrastructure, more opportunity for technological connections, to name a few.
As the leaves get ready to change their colors, make sure to make some time for you to get up, get out and go to a park. I guarantee it will
be the best park of your day. n
Tim Moloney, Executive Director
4 Parkscope
For the Love of Metro Parks
Top 12 photos as voted in the Friends of Metro Parks’ Facebook Photo
Contest, For the Love of Metro Parks (March 20–May 1, 2016)
(One photo per photographer selected)
1st
1st Place - Terri Mikesh
2nd Place - Keith Kraut
3rd Place - Shawna Stambaugh
Leslie Strader
Lisa McFadden McClatchy
Maureen Severns
Michael Minnich
Laurie Fausnaugh
Mike Horn
Thomas Bowen
Adam Brandemihl
Dru Beynon
Mindi McConnell
Walnut Woods sparkles
with autumn brilliance
6 Parkscope
Mindi McConnell
W
alnut Woods is a former tree
nursery, so many of its trees are
arranged in long straight rows
and feature some ornamental trees rarely
seen in the natural forests of other parks.
From the observation mound, playground and picnic shelter in the Buckeye
Area, you can see spectacular views of
serviceberry, crab apple and red maples,
which all have vibrant fall colors.
Red to orange-leafed pin oaks surround
the Kestrel Trail pond, and the trail also
features a glorious bald cypress, a rare
gem for Metro Parks. This is one of the few
places in the parks to see these beautiful
deciduous conifers. There are also some
non-native ornamental trees in this area,
such as European birch and oaks.
The Tall Pines Area features a large
group of sweetgums on the appropriately
named Sweetgum Trail. These trees were
planted decades ago and are painted glori-
ous yellow for the fall season. As you walk
the trail, this feast for the eyes eventually
gives way to the aroma of sweet pine and
you quickly realize why this section of the
park is named Tall Pines.
In my opinion the Tall Pines Area is the
most peaceful part of the park, well worth
a visit at any time of year. If you take a long
walk through the white pines and spruce
trees you will marvel at the dappled light
Kye Feasel
Mindi McConnell
Sweetgum trees in the Tall Pines Area
Mindi McConnell
such as monarch butterflies
as they prepare for their long
migration. The cup plants
also offer insects a source of
water.
A pair of osprey has made
the wetland area at Walnut
Woods their home for the
third year in a row, nesting in a platform built by
boy scouts. In fall you may
witness the osprey as they
start their migration south
to warmer climates. If their
nest was successful, they will
return to the same nest year
after year.
Visitors can enjoy fishing in the serene waters of
Walnut Creek, while taking in the wonderful views.
Although you can access the
creek at any location, we
offer two areas just off the
Buckeye Trail that are easily accessible for
fishing, canoeing or kayaking. The areas
are marked on the park map, available at
metroparks.net or at park bulletin boards.
Your canine friends will also enjoy the
cool season at the park. Every trail at Walnut Woods is pet friendly, with over seven
New England asters and goldenrod
reflecting off the closely planted
evergreens.
The prairie fields in the park’s central
area are full of color, with yellow goldenrod
and cup plants, purple New England asters
and ironweed, and orange to red milkweed
and bee balm. All of these flowers are
late-season sources of nectar for insects,
miles of trails, both paved and natural. We
also have two dog parks in the Buckeye
Area, a 3-acre area for large dogs (20
pounds and over) and a 1-acre dog park
for smaller dogs (20 pounds or less).
Each dog park is equipped with a shade
shelter, colorful trees and agility courses.
Your fur buddy will enjoy running in the
spacious areas and will love the challenge
of jumping over adjustable poles, running
through weave posts, sliding through tunnels, jumping through hoops and scaling
large boulders. The large dog park also has
a 1-acre pond for cooling off and catching
frisbees.
There is a playground for kids too, which
features a tire swing, climbing web, two
climbing boulders, a merry-go-round,
spiral spinner and two swings.
Many people think of fall as football
season. The Buckeye Area has a perfect spot
to play a friendly game of family football in
our large open grass area. There are also
several spots to picnic, including a large
shelter with grills and smaller picnic areas
with grills for single families. All are free on
a first-come first-serve basis and they are
all wheelchair accessible.
If you are a photographer, don’t miss
your opportunity to get that perfect autumn
shot. Give Walnut Woods a visit and see
what you are missing. n
Mindi McConnell
Walnut Woods Park Manager
SOCIAL MEDIA & the Nature Experience
N
ature and social media may
not seem like a natural fit to
everyone, but here at Metro
Parks we have a different view. Nowadays, most people enjoy the outdoors
with a camera or smartphone in hand,
so it’s easier than ever to share a visit to
your Metro Parks on social networking
sites.
Share with us
Yes, you can have your cake, and eat it
too. Enjoy the natural beauty of your
Metro Parks and you can take your
social media with you. Share photos of
your favorite bird on Instagram, post
on Facebook about today’s hike on your
favorite park trail, or tweet about your
10-mile bike ride on a Greenway trail.
We want you to not only get outside
and enjoy nature, but to tell us about
it by tagging @cbusmetroparks on
Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
Stay in the know
You can also use social media to stay
in the know about what’s happening in
your Metro Parks. Like us on Facebook
for interesting, light-hearted stories
from the parks, and related wildlife and
nature information.
Follow us on Twitter for updates
on special events, trail closures and
maintenance. Follow us on Instagram
for beautiful images of wildlife, people
and nature shot by staff and park visitors. Subscribe to our YouTube Channel
for fun videos of wildlife, events, 10TV
specials in the parks and more.
You can access all of our social media
sites directly from any Metro Parks
web page. Simply click the
icons on the top of the page
(or bottom of the page on
a smart phone).
Blog
If you want more
in-depth stories from
the parks, on all kinds
of subjects, such as
what flowers are blooming, migration patterns of
birds, resource management
activities to enhance natural
habitats, details of special events, read
our BLOG. As with our social media
sites, access the Blog from any page at
metroparks.net.
Or subscribe to our email Newsletter, directly from our website home
page, and receive news twice a month
that you won’t see anywhere else.
In Spanish
We have exciting news for our Spanishspeaking visitors too, as Metro Parks
now has Spanish Twitter and Facebook
accounts called Descubre Metro Parks.
(@MetroParksESP)
Remember, nature and social media
are not mutually exclusive, so the next
time you are out and about in your
Metro Parks, be sure to snap, tag, post,
tweet, like and share your experience.
n
Angela Latham
Social Media Specialist
Favorite Metro Parks Places
A word from the wise as Metro Parks staff give you ideas of what to see or do in autumn
Beverly Ratliff
BLACKLICK WOODS
Wildlife is often elusive, but it doesn’t feel that way at the
Blacklick Woods Nature Center. Outside the expansive windows are feeders that attract more than just birds. Squirrels,
raccoons, groundhogs, and even deer visit the feeders to fuel
up before the cold winter sets in. In late September, migrating songbirds can be seen passing through the tree canopy
above. You will need sharp eyes to catch them as they dart
through the changing leaves in search of insects to eat.
While the wildlife is nice, it is the scenery that draws me
in everyday throughout fall. Across the pond, a gorgeous red
maple glows a deep scarlet. Framed by the yellow leaves of
hickory and locust trees, the maple stands majestically on a
peninsula stretching into the pond. Come watch the world
change color from the comfort of the nature center this
autumn. You won’t be disappointed.
David Tipton
Cody Berkebile, Naturalist Blacklick Woods
SLATE RUN FARM
The place I enjoy most on the farm is directly
behind the horses. The tasks accomplished
with the coordinated effort of the horses’ power
and careful direction always amaze me. The
driver needs to stand or sit directly behind
the horses so that his commands can be felt
through the reins. As a result, the view never
really changes. As you look out over, around
or between the horses to see where you are
going, you can’t help but notice their impressive power. These 1800-pound animals, who
can make the ground shake as they gallop,
are also capable of delicately stepping around
the plants in the garden or field. The sense of
teamwork developed with the horses over the
years has only strengthened my enjoyment of
this location as we work together.
Dave Trotter, Interpretive Aide Slate Run Farm
Andrea Moore
WATER, WATER — EVERYWHERE!
Lake Ramona, Clear Creek
Lucky for me, my favorite ‘place’ in the Metro Parks happens to be in every park: water! Streams, rivers, lakes, ponds, wetlands
—it is in our human nature to be drawn to water. It is a source of peace; calming and restorative. Where there is water, there is
life. The world at the water’s edge and beneath its surface is teeming with activity. How exciting it is to step into that world. These
are some of my favorite ways to experience the waterways of Metro Parks:
Visit the viewing deck at Ellis Pond at dawn to see the mist rising in the sunlight as the cool air hits the warm water
(Pickerington Ponds). Venture out onto the peninsula at Buzzard’s Roost Lake to listen and watch for migratory birds on their
southbound journey (Slate Run). Splash in the creek and turn over slippery rocks to peek for crayfish hiding beneath them
(Blendon Woods’ natural play area). Meditate on a dock at Lake Ramona and breathe deeply the fresh aroma of the surrounding hemlock forest (Clear Creek). Take in a symphony of changing canopy colors across the river valley of Big Darby Creek from
the Cedar Ridge overlook deck (Battelle Darby Creek).
Kim Martin, GPS Specialist
Every fall, I look forward to working in the prairie gathering prairie seeds
by hand to help grow future prairies. I know that thousands of people
will enjoy the results of what I do. After gathering the seeds, I place them
in drying racks before cleaning them and storing or sowing them.
Some of the forbs have attractive seed heads. Purple coneflower,
baptisia, bergamot, ox-eye, ashy sunflower and crown beard are just a
few examples, and some of my favorites. The prairie grasses also have
attractive seed heads, but most of those are picked by machine.
Even though the prairies are no longer in bloom, the trees that border
them are very colorful in fall, mostly oaks and hickories. It is pleasing to
look up from the prairie and see the beautiful shades of yellow, orange
and red leaves.
Gordon Mitchell, Resource Management
10 Parkscope
Jennifer Kleinrichert
PRAIRIES
Christina Freas
THREE CREEKS
From a distance, I watch a friend sitting on a bench under an
evergreen tree near Turtle Pond. He is an intelligent, kind man
who enjoys the peace and quiet of the Confluence Trails Area.
He sits in solace engulfed in reading his new selection from
the library.
Around him, the pace of the park has slowed and people are
trying to capture the last rays of sunlight before the impending
winter. I take a deep breath and smell the crisp pine scented
air and I’m reminded of a quote from Albert Camus: “Autumn
is a second spring when every leaf is a flower.”
All around me the leaves are turning into their picturesque
Crayola box of color, their reflections displayed on the water.
I catch myself yearning for my favorite pair of jeans and OSU
sweatshirt.
The stark white bark of the sycamore trees is a perfect
canvas for the array of color that I see before me. The squirrels are scurrying about stockpiling their stashes and I am
reminded of all of the tasks that I need to complete. Instead, I
walk over to my friend under the pine tree at Turtle Pond and
sit down next to him. Together we savor the moment, enjoying
the serenity that nature has to offer.
Christina Freas, Ranger Three Creeks
Mary Ann Schell
INNISWOOD
There is no better place to celebrate the change of
season than in Inniswood’s Prairie Garden located
at the intersection of Spring Run Trail and Frog Talk
Walk. Shades of purple, gold and green dazzle in
early fall sun then fade to rusty beiges, browns and
grays as the season progresses. Flora and fauna complete their life cycles in a garden that marvels with its
opposites of scale. Strolling the garden’s mowed path
reveals wildflowers growing as tall as 10 feet, and a
myriad of small wonders nestled in their midst. Watch
closely and you will see the Prairie Garden come alive
with the flight of seed-eating birds. Search for globeshaped galls on goldenrod stems and egg cases filled
with insects awaiting the arrival of spring. You can
witness the changes of autumn in a multitude of ways
in this small garden.
Jen Snyder, Environmental Educator Inniswood
As an employee of the Metro Parks, it’s been special seeing
first-hand the growth of Rocky Fork from farm fields to
a much-loved park. The park opened in August 2015 and
offers miles of trails, picnic areas, a dog park, bridle trail
and a playground. All of these bring their own form of
relaxation to park visitors, but when I get a break from
my work day I have one particular “go to” spot—the
Millstone picnic shelter. The shelter is nestled back in the
woods, generally shaded, and offers a patio with a group
of Adirondack chairs to sit back and take the load off your
feet. The view of the autumn color across the North Meadow Trail field is awesome. Take a few moments and listen to the sound
of silence. It can make you feel like you’re nowhere near civilization’s zip code.
Jay Iden
ROCKY FORK
Jay Iden, Maintenance Technician Rocky Fork
Daniel White
GREENWAYS
My favorite fall spot on the Greenway trails is on the Alum Creek Trail, two miles north from the Brittany Hills parking lot off
Sunbury Road. Here, the Alum Creek Trail gets away from the sound of traffic and comes to a bridge that crosses the creek.
The crisp, cool autumn air on the exposed bridge refreshes and rejuvenates after an incredibly warm summer. The streaming water of the creek, rippling against smoothed rocks, creates a calming sound. If timed right the sunset (or sunrise) bleeds
through the prismatic leaf perimeter around the creek, further accentuating the intense colors of the leaves. When I come to
the bridge while biking the trail, I always stop, take a deep breath, and think how lucky we are to have such an incredible trail
system like the Greenways.
Daniel White, Ranger Greenways
12 Parkscope
Michael Idzkowski
HIGHBANKS
There are few places better made for enjoying autumn than Highbanks. One place in particular has always captured my fancy,
and it may come as a surprise because it hides right out in plain sight. My favorite spot in the park is found in the Big Meadows
Picnic Area. Near the northernmost shelter there is a large maple tree which is always one of the first in the park to change color.
After the heat of summer is gone, nothing beats a brisk walk around the loop, or simply sitting under the tree and looking south
to watch fall descending slowly on all the trees and prairie grass in the area. Many visitors come to hike the Overlook or Dripping
Rock trails, and they are wonderful, but don’t miss out on this scenic gem tucked all the way in the back of the park.
Russel Cowden, Ranger Highbanks
John Cagnina
CLEAR CREEK
My favorite autumn spot at Clear Creek is the meadows, on top of
the ridge, where the Cemetery Ridge, Fern and Chestnut trails meet.
You may be surprised at just how early these areas start to show the
colors of fall. As summer comes to a close the yellows of the meadow
flowers really start to shine. Once September rolls around the dogwood, Virginia creeper and winged sumac turn vibrant red.
A September walk through these meadows, when the sky is bright
blue, provides a view of natural color that is so bright it almost
seems unreal. People often ask me about the peak of fall color. There
may be days in mid-October when the color seems most vibrant as
you drive through the hills. But if you hike out and take notice, there
are wonderful colors to be found all season long and they change,
almost daily, on the way to winter. I often feel like I never walk the
same trail twice here at Clear Creek. It is different every time.
Marcey Shafer, Naturalist Clear Creek
Metro Parks Map &
Hoover Reservoir
O’Shaughnessy
Reservoir
Trail
Sunbur
y Rd
to Erie
Ohio
Brevelhymer Rd
Blackl
Cre
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y
Cre
ek
Hill R
d
n Rd
Bowe
inc
he
Slou
gh Rd
33
ster R
d
Mason Rd
Rd
Waterloo Rd
W
Amanda
Northern Rd
Bl a
ck
lic
Seven miles
116
south of
Lancaster on
US 33
High St
loo
St
674
Winch
es te
r Rd
Richardson Rd
Walnut
Big
Slate Run
Farm and Park
Wright Rd
Rd
Pickerington Rd
Hamilton Rd
t
er
po
lis
Cre e k
256
e
ho
ick
Pickerington
Ponds
Wright Rd
Wa
Lit
317
Cre
ek
Norton Rd
Rd
Duvall Rd
Greenway Trails
te
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i
k
by
Bix
104
62
he
Three
Creeks
Rd
Walnut
Woods
rb
inc
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Bowen Rd
Gender Rd
t
Bla
Lon
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po
ove
Gr
Ave
W
reek Trail
kC
London Groveport Rd
Battelle
Darby Creek
70
Lithopolis-Winchester Rd
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Wilco Rd
m Creek Trai
l
ick Creek
Wo
Ga rthi
len ng
a R ton
d
Alu
R
Schleppi Rd
Spangler Rd
Williams Rd
270
71
Scioto
Grove
Brice Rd
104
Parsons
Cree
3
665
14 Parkscope
Hamilton Rd
Scioto Trail
23
71
k
Dr
62
270
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d
Da
t Cree
Livingston Ave
Alum Cr
Rd
arb
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Alk
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Am
Big
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Little Darby
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Ch
Main St
40
Scioto
Audubon
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Darby Creek Trail
& Golf Courses
317
70
40
Broad St
Blacklick Woods
Trail
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670
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Alum
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Blendon 161
Woods Dublin-Granville Rd
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Morse Rd
High
to D
arb
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Darby Creek Trail
Cleveland Ave
rail
Olenta n gy T
Scio
33
71
Rd
270
Dublin
Georgesville Rd
Amity Rd
ty
Plain Ci
Heritage
Trail Park
Prairie
Oaks rts Rd
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161
23
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Inniswood
E. Schrock Rd
161
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Cross
Tuttle
Blvd
Rd
Avery
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W a lnu
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Dempsey Rd
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Olentangy Riv
Amity Pike
Tra
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Rock y
Rd
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Rd
rit
Rocky Fork
Hempstead Rd
Main St
270
Tuttle
Rd
62
F
is P k w y
Park Rd
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Cosgra
He
Pol
Highbanks
Post Rd
161
ar
Rd
e
Croy
Hyland
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tar
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Ce Pik
750
257
Sharon
Woods
Powell Rd
Harlem
v
si de Dri
Glacier
Ridge Brock Rd
605
23
R iver
33
71
Alum Creek
Reservoir
674
Perrill Rd
Winchester Rd
Chestnut
Ridge
Neiswander Rd
Marcy Rd
Clear Creek
Cl
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ek
To
Lancaster
33
& Directions
BATTELLE DARBY CREEK
1775 Darby Creek Dr
Galloway 43119
39.90346 -83.20914
From I-270 take W Broad St (US 40)
exit west. Go about 5 miles on Broad
St to Darby Creek Dr. Turn left onto
Darby Creek Dr and go 3 miles to main
park entrance on right.
Nature Center
1415 Darby Creek Dr
39.91618 -83.21127
Entrance is on right 1 mile before
main park entrance. (Indian Ridge
Picnic Area is 1 mile south of the main
entrance on the right).
BLACKLICK WOODS
& GOLF COURSES
6975 & 7309 E Livingston Ave
Reynoldsburg 43068
39.94595 -82.80999 (park)
39.94577 -82.80152 (golf course)
From I-270, take the E Main St/
Reynoldsburg exit. Go east on Main St
to Brice Rd and turn right. Take Brice
Rd to Livingston Ave and turn left.
Entrance is about 1.5 miles on the
right. Golf course is 1⁄4 mile beyond
the park entrance.
BLENDON WOODS
4265 E. Dublin-Granville Rd
Westerville 43081
40.07987-82.88470
From I-270, take State Route 161 exit
(30B) toward New Albany onto
E Dublin-Granville Road. Go 1.6 miles
then take the Little Turtle Way exit and
turn right. Go to Old SR 161 and turn
right. Entrance is 1/2 mile on left.
CHESTNUT RIDGE
8445 Winchester Rd NW
Carroll 43112
39.81027-82.75365
From I-270, take US 33 east toward
Lancaster. Go about 11 miles and turn
right on Winchester Rd. Entrance is
about 3 miles on the left.
CLEAR CREEK
185 Clear Creek Rd
Rockbridge, 43149
39.59776-82.54892
From I-270, take US 33 about 32 miles.
Turn right on Clear Creek Rd (CR 116).
Picnic areas, facilities and trails are
located along Clear Creek Rd for the
next seven miles.
GLACIER RIDGE
9801 Hyland Croy Rd, Plain City 43064
40.15628-83.18510
Take I-270 toward Dublin. Take 33/161
west (exit 17B) toward Marysville. Follow 33/161 west to the 161/Plain City/
Post Rd exit. Turn right at the light and
then immediately left on Hyland Croy
Rd. The Honda Wetland Education Area
is 1 mile north on the left (7825 Hyland
Croy Rd). Main entrance 2 miles further
north.
HERITAGE PARK and TRAIL
7262 Hayden Run Rd, Hilliard 43026
40.05951-83.19585
From I-270 take Tuttle Crossing Blvd
west, go 0.7 miles, turn left on Wilcox
Rd. Go 1.1 miles, turn right on Hayden
Run Rd. Entrance is about 2.7 miles on
right.
HIGHBANKS
9466 US 23 N, Lewis Center 43035
40.15283-83.01837
From I-270, take US 23 North about 3
miles. Entrance on the left, just before
Powell Rd.
HOMESTEAD
4675 Cosgray Rd, Hilliard 43026
40.05130-83.18125
Take I-270 turn west onto Cemetery Rd.
Go 2.1 miles (just past intersection with
Main St) and turn right on Scioto Darby
Rd. Go 0.9 miles to Cosgray Rd and turn
right. Entrance 1.2 miles on left.
INNISWOOD
940 S Hempstead Rd, Westerville 43081
40.10086-82.90357
From I-270, take SR 3/Westerville Rd
south to Dempsey Rd and turn left.
Go about 1 mile to Hempstead Rd and
turn left. Turn again on Hempstead Rd
as it jogs right just past the Blendon
Township Complex. Entrance is about
100 yards on the right.
PICKERINGTON PONDS
7680 Wright Rd, Canal Winchester
43110
39.88451-82.79878
From I-270 take US 33 east toward
Lancaster about 3 miles. Take the Canal
Winchester/SR 674/Gender Rd exit.
Turn left onto Gender Rd, go about 1
mile and turn right onto Wright Rd. Go
about 1 mile to Bowen Rd and turn left.
Glacier Knoll picnic and parking area is
about 1⁄4 mile on left.
PRAIRIE OAKS
SHARON WOODS
3225 Plain City-Georgesville Rd
West Jefferson 43162
39.98824-83.26421
Main Entrance: From I-270, take I-70
west to the Plain City-Georgesville
Rd/SR 142 exit and go north on SR
142 about 0.8 miles. Entrance on
right
6911 Cleveland Ave, Westerville 43081
40.11399-82.94904
From I-270, take Cleveland Ave North .
Entrance about 1⁄2 mile on left
Spring Hollow Lodge
1069 W Main St, Westerville 43081
40.12539-82.96728
Cannot be accessed from Sharon
Woods entrance). Continue north on
Cleveland Ave, past the main park
entrance to Main St and turn left. Go
about 1.5 miles and turn left into park.
Sycamore Plains Trail
2009 Amity Rd, Hilliard 43026
39.98887-83.23883
From Route 142 (Plain City-Georgesville Rd) go 1⁄4 mile south of I-70
exit. Turn left on High Free Pk. Go
about 1 mile to Roberts Rd and turn
left. Go about 1 mile on Roberts Rd
to Amity Rd and turn left. Entrance
on left
Darby Bend Lakes
2755 Amity Rd, Hilliard 43026
40.00294-83.24881
From I-270, take I-70 west to the
West Jefferson/Plain City exit, turn
right onto Plain City-Georgesville
Rd/SR 142. Go 2.25 miles to Lucas
Rd (passing main park entrance) and
turn right. Cross Big Darby Creek
and turn right at the stop sign onto
Amity Rd. Entrance about 0.5 miles
on right.
ROCKY FORK
SLATE RUN FARM and PARK
1375 SR 674 North
Canal Winchester 43110
39.75719-82.82787
Lancaster to the Canal Winchester/SR
674 exit. Turn right onto Gender Rd/
SR 674 and go about 2 miles until it
dead-ends into Lithopolis Rd. Turn left
and go about 1⁄2 mile to SR 674. Turn
right, go about 4 miles to the entrance
on the right.
Slate Run Wetlands:
39.76573-82.86716
Continue past main park entrance 1⁄2
mile to Marcy Rd and turn right. Go 3
miles to Winchester Rd and turn right.
Wetlands entrance is about 2 miles on
the right.
7180 Walnut St, Westerville 43081
40.11217-82.79785
From I-270 take exit 30 to SR 161/
New Albany, go 3 miles and take
New Albany Rd exit, turn left and follow as it veers right on New Albany
Rd East. Go 0.5 miles and turn left on
SR 605 (New Albany Condit Rd). Go
1.4 miles, turn right on E. Walnut St.
Entrance 0.7 miles on left.
THREE CREEKS
SCIOTO AUDUBON
Lancaster. Go about 1.3 miles then
turn right on Hamilton Rd/SR 317. Go
2.7 miles and turn left onto Main St/
Groveport Rd.
400 W Whittier St, Columbus 43215
39.94426-83.00335
From I-71, take the Greenlawn Ave
exit east 1/3 mile and turn left on S
Front St. Go 1/4 mile and turn left on
W Whittier St. Entrance is 1/3 mile
on left.
SCIOTO GROVE
5172 Jackson Pike, Grove City 43123
39.85574-83.02798
From I-71, take Exit 100, Stringtown
Road and go east about 1.2 miles.
Turn right on OH104/Jackson Pike.
Entrance 1.4 miles on left.
3860 Bixby Rd, Groveport 43125
39.87307-82.89911
From I-270, take US 33 east towards
Lancaster about 1 mile. Turn right on
Hamilton Rd and go about 1.25 miles
to Bixby Rd and turn right. Entrance is
about 0.75 miles on the right.
WALNUT WOODS
for Buckeye Area
6716 Lithopolis Rd, Groveport 43125
39.84087-82.85560
Go 2 miles to Lithopolis Rd and turn
right. Entrance is 0.75 miles on left. Park
office across road at 6723 Lithopolos Rd.
for Tall Pines Area
6833 Richardson Rd, Groveport 43125
39.83909-82.86892
Go 1.4 miles to Richardson Rd turn
right. Entrance about 1.1 miles on right.
METRO PARKS NEWS
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Parks delivered right to your inbox.
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Web: metroparks.net
E-mail: info@metroparks.net
Information: 614.891.0700
Reservations: 614.508.8111
Fax: 614.895.6208
InfoLine: 614.508.8000
Park hours for Autumn 2016
Park
Battelle Darby Creek
Blacklick Woods
Blendon Woods
Highbanks
Scioto Audubon
Sharon Woods
Three Creeks
Hours
6:30am to 10pm (Sept)
6:30am to 8pm (Oct/Nov)
Chestnut Ridge
Clear Creek
Glacier Ridge
Heritage Trail
Homestead
Pickerington Ponds
Prairie Oaks
Rocky Fork
Scioto Grove
Slate Run
Walnut Woods
6:30am to dark*
Inniswood Metro Gardens
7am to dark
Innis House is open Tuesday through Friday,
8am to 4:30pm and Saturday and Sunday
11am to 4pm
Slate Run Living Historical Farm
Sept to Oct
Tue-Sat, 9am to 4pm and Sun 11am to 4pm
(Open Labor Day, noon to 6pm)
Nov
Wed-Sat 9am to 4pm and Sun 11am to 4pm
(Closed Thanksgiving Day
Nature Centers
Blacklick Woods
Blendon Woods
Highbanks
For nature center hours, go to
metroparks.net
Walden Waterfowl Refuge
at Blendon Woods
Daily 6:30am to 8pm
For help visiting facilities or with
activities, please call 614.891.0700.
Inniswood Metro Gardens
Call 614.895.6216
Call 614.833.1880
For information about Metro Parks
print or electronic publications
contact Virginia Gordon (vgordon@
metroparks.net) or Peg Hanley
(hanley@metroparks.net)
Programs with a phone symbol & require advance registration.
Go to Programs & Activities/Upcoming Programs at
metroparks.net or call 614.508.8111.
Registration for autumn programs begins at 8am on Wed Aug 31
METRO FIVE-0 for age 50 and older, color-coded by degree of difficulty:
LEVEL 1 (easy, fully accessible) LEVEL 2 (slow pace, less than 1-mile hike)
LEVEL 3 (up to 2-mile hike, moderate pace)
LEVEL 4 (hike over two miles at strenuous pace)
16 Parkscope
(* 1/2 hour after local sunset)
Metro Parks reserves the right to photograph
and videotape all activities, events, programs
and facilities for publicity purposes.
Metro Parks does not discriminate on the basis of
race, color, religion, gender, age, nationality or disability in employment, services, programs or activities.
SEPTEMBER
BISON
02 Fri 7pm
Take a 1-mile hike to see
the bison.
MONARCH BUTTERFLIES
03 Sat 10am
Learn about the monarch’s
life cycle and its migration
to Mexico. X
MAMMALS DISPLAY
03 Sat 1–4pm
See skins, scat, skulls and
skeletons of Ohio’s past and
present mammals. X
THE BUZZ ABOUT BEES
04 Sun 9am
Discover the interesting lives
of honeybees and the pressures they face as pollinators
and honey makers. X
BIRDS DISPLAY
04 Sun 1–4pm
See a display of mounts,
eggs and skulls of songbirds,
raptors and waterfowl. X
COLD BLOODS DISPLAY
05 Mon 1–4pm
View a display of amphibians, reptiles and other coldblooded critters. X
PRESCHOOLERS:
WOOLLY BEARS
06 Tue 9:30 or 11am
Discover the life cycle of this
fuzzy little black and brown
caterpillar through a story,
song and craft. X
Meet at nature center unless otherwise noted (1415 Darby Creek Drive)
For information on programs at Battelle Darby Creek in Spanish, visit metroparks.net
FAMILY CREEKIN’
10 Sat 1pm
Catch and release aquatic
wildlife in Big Darby Creek.
Ranger Station
DECIDUOUS IS DELICIOUS
11 Sun 1pm
Learn about the tasty treats
trees and shrubs can provide
on a 1-mile hike.
Ranger Station
DARBY CREEK DAY
Sunday October 2 1–4pm
Enjoy seining, noodling for mussels, canoeing, fly
fishing, live animals and more along Big Darby
Creek. Meet representatives from organizations
working to protect the Darby Watershed.
Indian Ridge Bulletin Board
Bob Zahller
CANOE FLOAT
11 Sun 3–5pm
Take a canoe out on the lake.
Children must fit into a life
jacket to ride. Pleasant Valley
Bulletin Board
METRO FIVE-0: Level 4
GLOW WORM HIKE
18 Sun 7:30pm
Seek out this insect’s mysterious glow on a 2-mile walk.
Age 50 and older
LATE NIGHT AT
PLEASANT VALLEY
24 Sat 8pm
Pleasant Valley Area and
pet trail open till midnight
for fishing, hiking and
stargazing. Pleasant Valley
Bulletin Board
PRESCHOOLERS:
WOOLLY BEARS
27 Tue 11am or 1pm
Discover the life cycle of this
fuzzy little black and brown
caterpillar through a story,
song and craft. X
PHOTO GROUP:
FALL PHOTOGRAPHY
10 Sat 10am
Learn tips and techniques to
take great fall pictures. X
OCTOBER
YOGA IN THE PARK
10 Sat 11:30am
Learn basic yoga movements
to rejuvenate your mind and
body. Bring a mat or blanket.
Ranger Station
PHOTO GROUP:
ALL ABOUT FILTERS
08 Sat 10am
Learn when and how to
use filters for digital
photography. X
DARBY CREEK DAY
02 Sun 1–4pm
See box
YOGA IN THE PARK
08 Sat 11:30am
Ranger Station
MUSSEL MANIA
08 Sat 1pm
Wade in the creek in search
of these buried treasures.
CANOE FLOAT
09 Sun 1–4pm
Take a canoe out on the lake.
Children must fit into a life
jacket to ride. Pleasant Valley
Bulletin Board
PRESCHOOLERS:
THOSE FIRST FALLS
14 Fri 9:30 or 11am
Enjoy a romp in the leaves
and discover the importance
of trees. Ranger Station
OFF-TRAIL EXPLORATION
15 Sat 9am
Explore remote parts of the
park on a 2-mile hike.
FALL COLOR WALK
15 Sat 1pm
Join us for a short hike to
enjoy the vibrant colors of
the season. Ranger Station
BISON
16 Sun 3pm
North America’s largest land
mammal.
FULL HUNTER’S MOON
16 Sun 7pm
Take a brisk 4-mile hike
through fields and forests.
Ranger Station
NATURE PRINT CONTEST
22-23 Sat-Sun 9am–5pm
View all the entries and cast
your vote for the People’s
Choice Award. X
STOP BY SCIENCE: LOOKING
THROUGH LEAF LITTER
22 Sat 2–4pm
Stop by anytime and dig
through leaf litter to discover
what critters live under the
leaves. X
PRESCHOOLERS:
THOSE FIRST FALLS
25 Tue 11am or 1pm
Enjoy a romp in the leaves
and discover the importance
of trees. Ranger Station
FAMILY YOGA
29 Sat 2pm
Practice various kid-friendly
yoga poses while learning
about plants and animals.
Bring a mat or blanket.
“SCARY” CREATURES
OF DARBY CREEK
30 Sun 1–3pm
Step right up and see scarysize larger-than-life aquatic
organisms on the BIG screen,
including monstrously big
leeches, crayfish and crane
flies. OH MY! X
OWLS OF DARBY CREEK
06 Sun 5pm
Lure in owls using calls and
recordings on a 2-mile hike.
CALLING ALL CANINES
13 Sun 5pm
Try to make contact with
the park’s wary foxes and
coyotes. X
PRESCHOOLERS:
GOBBLE GOBBLE
08 Tue 9:30 or 11am
Learn about the life cycle of
the wild turkey and how it
became a holiday symbol. X
PRESCHOOLERS:
GOBBLE GOBBLE
18 Fri 11am or 1pm
See Nov 8
NOVEMBER
PHOTO GROUP:
IMAGE REVIEW
12 Sat 10am
Enjoy a discussion and review
of member images. X
NATIONAL BISON DAY
05 Sat 1–4pm
Celebrate America’s national
mammal with a movie and
activities. X
YOGA IN THE PARK
12 Sat 11:30am
ANCIENT AVENUE
06 Sun 1pm
Explore the Fort Ancient
Culture, hike to one of their
prehistoric mounds and learn
to throw an atlatl dart.
BISON
13 Sun 1pm
North America’s largest land
mammal. Age 50 and older
IN SEARCH OF
WHITE-TAILED DEER
19 Sat 2pm
Look for deer sign and
try to rattle a buck.
GIRL SCOUT DAY:
CADETTES NIGHT OWL
19 Sat & 38318
Girls (grades 6-8) will participate in activities to earn the
Night Owl badge.
JUNCOS AND JAYS
20 Sun 8am
Enjoy a birding adventure
along the banks of Big Darby
Creek and look for wintering
birds. Ranger Station
Nic Smith
HALLOWEEN LANTERN HIKE
29 Sat 6–8pm
Discover creatures of
the night on a 2-mile
lantern-lit path.
GRAVEYARD HIKE
30 Sun 10am
Take a 4-mile off-trail hike
to prehistoric Indian and
pioneer burial grounds.
Ranger Station
IN SEARCH OF WATERFOWL
20 Sun 10am
Search for migrating waterfowl at the wetlands.
MOVIE MATINEE:
MY LIFE AS A TURKEY
25 Fri noon
Watch the PBS nature movie,
a true story and a beautiful,
charming, funny, sad and
thought-provoking film that
explores one of those rare
moments when man and
animal unwittingly become
more closely linked than
nature normally allows. X
OFF-TRAIL HIKE
26 Sat 9am
Explore remote areas of the
park on a 6-mile off-trail
hike. Bring water and a
snack. Ranger Station
A park visitor wields an atlatl, a tool used by ancient peoples to add speed to their hunting missiles.
18 Parkscope
Blacklick Woods
SEPTEMBER
MORNING COFFEE AND
WILDLIFE WATCH
03 Sat 8–10am
View wildlife through the
nature center windows and
enjoy a cup of coffee. X
LABOR DAY DISPLAY
03–05 Sat-Mon 8am–8pm
Celebrate Labor Day at our
display about nature’s hardest working animals. X
LENS & LEAVES
CAMERA CLUB
08 Thu 7pm
See member photos and
learn photographic techniques. Non-members welcome. Beech Maple Lodge
PAWPAW PROWL
10 Sat 11am
Take a 1-mile walk in the forest to search for Ohio’s state
native fruit. X
NIGHT OWL 5K
10 Sat 8pm
Enjoy a 3.1-mile night run.
Ash Grove Picnic Area
NATURE BIKE RIDE
11 Sun noon
Enjoy a casual ride along the
Blacklick Creek Greenway
Trail with a few nature stops.
HOMESCHOOLERS: STREAM
QUALITY MONITORING
12 Mon 2pm
Take a 2-mile round-trip hike
to Blacklick Creek and help
to determine the quality of
the creek.
PRESCHOOLERS:
FITNESS FUN
14 Wed 10am or 1pm
Run an obstacle course and
learn about fitness for kids.
Beech Maple Lodge
FALL MIGRATION BIRD HIKE
16 Fri 8am
Take a 2-mile walk to search
for migrating songbirds. X
FALL BIRDWATCHING
DISPLAY
16–18 Fri-Sun 8am–8pm
View our display about
birdwatching and learn how
to identify fall warblers and
where to find them. X
BIG SIT
17 Sat 10am–4pm
Record how many different
birds you can see from the
viewing windows. X
FALL MIGRATION BIRD HIKE
18 Sun 11am
Take a 2-mile walk to search
for migrating songbirds X
BUGS & BLOOMS
22 Thu 1pm
Take a 2-mile walk to see
fall flowers and the insects
that visit them.
Age 50 and older X
ANCIENT ATLATLS
24 Sat 2pm
Learn how ancient people
used this tool to add speed
to their hunting darts and try
using one yourself.
Meadows Picnic Area X
NATURE TRAM
27 Tue 2pm
Take a tram ride through the
park. Age 50 and older X
OCTOBER
MORNING COFFEE AND
WILDLIFE WATCH
01 Sat 8–10am
Meet at nature center unless otherwise noted
SCOUT DAY:
BROWNIES WOW BADGE
01 Sat 2pm
Brownies (2nd and 3rd
grades) will participate in activities that meet the requirements for the Wonders of
Water badge. X
PRESCHOOLERS: PJ PARTY
12 Wed 10am or 1pm
Wear your warm, fuzzy
pajamas as you learn about
animals preparing for winter.
X
LENS & LEAVES
CAMERA CLUB
13 Thu 6pm
GROSSOLOGY DISPLAY
15–16 Sat-Sun 8am–6pm
View our display about the
icky side of nature. X
FALL FOLIAGE GPS HUNT
15 Sat 10am–2pm
Borrow a GPS unit and
follow clues to learn about
fall tree identification with
a fun twist. X
CELEBRATE THE SEASON
16 Sun 1–3pm
Celebrate autumn with
apple cider and a craft.
Beech Maple Lodge X
FOREST FORENSICS
17 Mon 2pm
Take a 1-mile walk to learn
about some of the mysteries
in the forest.
Age 50 and older X
HIKE AND HEAT
21 Fri 6pm
Enjoy a 1.5-mile walk and
cook treats over a campfire.
Ash Grove Picnic Area X
YOU CAN EAT THAT
23 Sun 2pm
Take a 1-mile walk to discover wild edible plants and
try some samples. X
HOMESCHOOLERS:
SQUIRRELS
24 Mon 10am or 1pm
Learn about the species of
squirrels that can be found in
Ohio and how they go nuts
preparing for winter. X
STORY TIME
26 Wed 10am
Enjoy stories about animals.
X
29 Sat 8am–6pm
30 Sun8am–4pm
View all entries and cast your
vote for the People’s Choice
Award. X
PRESCHOOLERS:
COSTUME PARTY
29 Sat 4pm
Come dressed in your Halloween costume and learn
about animals that camouflage themselves or mimic
others. Beech Maple Lodge X
HALLOWEEN LANTERN HIKE
29 Sat 7pm
Celebrate Halloween with
a family-friendly, 1.5-mile
lantern-lit hike. X
NOVEMBER
LUNCH AND LEARN:
URBAN WILDLIFE
02 Wed noon
Bring lunch and learn about
wildlife in an urban environment. X
MORNING COFFEE AND
WILDLIFE WATCH
05 Sat 8–10am
SCIENCE SUNDAY:
ORNITHOLOGY 101
06 Sun 2pm
Watch a presentation about
bird biology and behavior.
Beech Maple Lodge X
PRESCHOOLERS: BEECH
TREE PUPPETS TAKE A HIKE
09 Wed 10am or 1pm
Join the Beech Tree Puppets
as they take a hike around
Blacklick Woods.
Beech Maple Lodge X
LENS & LEAVES
CAMERA CLUB
10 Thu 6pm
WOMEN’S
PROTECTION CLINIC 2.0
12 Sat 8:30am
Join the rangers for a fastpaced, hands-on self-defense
class for beginning and
intermediate levels.
Age 13 and older (Under 18
must be accompanied by a
parent or guardian)
Beech Maple Lodge
AUTUMN PAINTING
12 Sat 4pm
Paint a fall landscape scene.
Materials provided. X
DOG WALK
13 Sun 2pm
Enjoy a 3-mile walk with your
dog. Nature Center parking
lot X
Blendon Woods
SEPTEMBER
THE BUG CHORUS
03 Sat 7:30pm
Take a 2-mile walk and listen
to the singing insects.
PRESCHOOLERS:
ANIMAL MOVES
06 Tue 10am or 1pm
Fly like a bird, hop like a
bunny and crawl like a turtle
as you learn how animals
move and where they go.
HOMESCHOOLERS:
BYE BYE BIRDS
07 Wed 1pm
Discover how and why birds
migrate and where they go.
Age 6-12
BIRD HIKE
10 Sat 8am
Search for warblers and other
migratory songbirds on their
way south.
20 Parkscope
POKÉMON NIGHT SAFARI
10 Sat 9–11pm
Look for Pokémon after dark
and after hours. Follow signs
for starting location.
GIRL SCOUT DAY:
JUNIORS FLOWERS
11 Sun & 38170 / 38171
Juniors (4th & 5th grade) will
participate in activities that
meet some of the requirements for the Flowers badge.
NIGHT WALK
13 Tue 8pm
Take a short stroll on a paved
trail to view the moon
over Thoreau Lake.
Age 50 and older X
ART WALK
18 Sun 2–5pm
Watch members of the
Westerville Art League as
they paint nature scenes
along the Lake Trail. X
HOMESCHOOLERS:
DECOMPOSERS
14 Mon 10am or 1pm
Learn the roles different
organisms have in the process of decomposition.
Beech Maple Lodge
WALK AND STROLL
16 Wed 1pm
Bring your stroller or a baby
backpack and enjoy a 2-mile
walk with a naturalist. X
WINTER IS COMING DISPLAY
View a display about animals
and how they prepare for
winter. X
FIRE MAKING
19 Sat 2pm
Learn different methods to
start a campfire and enjoy a
simple snack.
Ash Grove Picnic Area X
FALL TREE ID
21 Mon 10am
Learn how to identify
trees on a 1-mile walk.
Age 50 and older X
PHOTO SCAVENGER HUNT
25 Fri 10am–4pm
Grab your smartphone or
digital camera for a fun scavenger hunt. To claim your
prize, photograph all items
on the scavenger hunt list. X
BASIC SHELTER BUILDING
27 Sun 2pm
Learn basic techniques for
building a survival shelter in
the wilderness.
DISCOVERY WALK
29 Tue 10am
Enjoy a 2-mile stroll through
the park. X
THE SECOND ATLAS OF
BREEDING BIRDS IN OHIO –
UNCOVERING 25 YEARS
OF CHANGE
24 Sat 6:30pm
See a presentation from
Matthew Shumar, a wildlife
biologist and coordinator of
The Second Atlas of Breeding
Birds in Ohio. From 20062011, more than one million
bird records were compiled
by birders and professional
researchers for the Atlas,
providing an unprecedented
snapshot of the bird life of
Ohio. Find out about factors
driving changes in bird populations including changes in
land use and climate. X
WALK THE CREEK
25 Sun 1pm
Take a leisurely walk along
the creek to view plants and
animals.
RELAXING YOGA
26 Mon 6:30pm
Bring a towel or mat and let
the stress of the day melt
away with an hour of relaxing yoga. All age groups and
levels welcome. Program
outdoors if weather permits,
follow signs to the location.
OCTOBER
ARCHERY
01 Sat & 38179 / 38180
02 Sun & 38181
Learn to shoot a compound
bow. Age 10 and older
BIRD HIKE
02 Sun 8am
Look for seed-eating birds
along a 2-mile walk.
ARCHERY
02 Sun & 38182
Learn to shoot a compound
bow. Age 50 and older
DEER WALK
29 Sat 6pm
Search for signs of whitetailed deer during rutting
season.
POKÉBLITZ TRAM RIDE
09 Sun 1–4pm
Take a 45-minute tram ride
to search for Pokémon and
Pokéstops throughout the
park. Naturalists will help you
find real wild animals too.
Rides start and end at nature
center. X
NOVEMBER
FALL COLORS WALK
15 Sat 2pm
Enjoy a 2-mile walk to see
the colorful fall leaves.
FALL FUN DAY TRAM RIDES
16 Sun 1–5pm
Take a short tram ride to see
fall colors, play in a giant leaf
pile, roast a marshmallow
and make a craft.
Cherry Ridge Program Area
HOMESCHOOLERS:
FALL COLOR SCIENCE
19 Wed 1pm
Try an experiment to learn
how leaves change color and
identify a few trees.
Age 6-12
PRESCHOOLERS:
COLOR HIKE
20 Thu 10am or 1pm
Hear a story and take a short
walk to see colorful leaves. X
BEHIND THE LAKE
23 Sun 1pm
Take a 2-mile off-trail hike
behind Thoreau Lake to see
plants and animal signs.
RELAXING YOGA
24 Mon 6:30pm
Bring a towel or mat and let
the stress of the day melt
away with an hour of relaxing yoga. All age groups and
levels welcome. Program held
follow signs to the location.
Andrea Krava
TRAM TOUR
08 Sat 1–4pm
Get to know the park on a
45-minute tram tour. Rides
start/end at nature center. X
PHOTO PROWL
05 Sat 9am
See what waterfowl are
visiting Thoreau Lake and
photograph them.
LEAFLESS TREES
05 Sat 2pm
Learn to identify trees by
their bark and branching.
BIRD HIKE
06 Sun 9am
Visit Thoreau Lake and view
the wonderful migratory
waterfowl.
FAIRY AND TROLL
HOUSE BUILDING
06 Sun 2pm
Use materials found in the
forest to build tiny houses
for fairies or trolls. Natural
Play Area at Cherry Ridge
PRESCHOOLERS:
FURRY FRIENDS
10 Thu 10am or 1pm
Find out about furry animals
through a story, activities and
a craft. X
CUB SCOUT DAY: BEARS
FUR, FEATHERS AND FERNS
12 Sat & 38201 / 38202
Boys will participate in activities that meet the Fur, Feathers and Ferns badge.
POKÉMON: WIN THE GYM
12 Sat & see teams below
Devise a plan with your team
mates to win Gyms in the
autumn 2-hour Gym Battle.
Register for one team:
Valor (red) & 38757
Instinct (yellow) & 38758
Mystic (blue) & 38759
Winners receive a badge.
You can show your love for one of Blendon Woods’ many native
fairies or trolls by building a house for them this November.
TURKEY TIME DISPLAY
13 Sun 12–4pm
Learn the fascinating history
and life of the bird that has
become a symbol of Thanksgiving Day. X
CAMPFIRE COOKING
19 Sat 2pm
Learn tips and techniques
for cooking over a fire.
Age 50 and older
HOWL AT THE MOON
13 Sun 6:30pm
Bring your canine friends for
a brisk 1.5-mile hike.
OH DEER!
26 Sat noon–4pm
Warm up in the nature center
while you learn about Ohio’s
only antlered animal. X
HOMESCHOOLERS:
KEYS AND CLUES
16 Wed 1pm
Identify animals using scientific keys and clues that the
animals leave behind.
Age 6-12
WATERFOWL
19 Sat 10am
Learn identification tips and
watch waterfowl at Thoreau
Lake. Binoculars available. X
LEARN ABOUT OWLS
27 Sun 5pm
Take a 1.5-mile walk to look
and listen for different species of owls.
RELAXING YOGA
28 Mon 6:30pm
Bring a towel or mat for an
hour of relaxing yoga. All age
and levels welcome. Program
follow signs to location.
Clear Creek
Andrea Moore
SEPTEMBER
1ST HALF IN A DAY HIKE
03 Sat 10am
Hike seven miles and cover
half the park’s trails while
enjoying spectacular scenery.
Barnebey-Hambleton Picnic
Area
SEPTEMBER SKIES
03 Sat 7:30pm
View the Milky Way,
Mars and Saturn. Call
740.969.9001 to check on
viewing conditions. Creekside
Meadows Parking Lot
GIANT OAK HIKE
22 Thu 10am
Take a rugged 3-mile backcountry hike to a centuries
old oak tree. Age 50 and
older Maintenance Shop
OCTOBER
BUZZARD’S ROOST
BACKCOUNTRY HIKE
08 Sat 1pm
Take a rugged 5-mile backcountry hike to Buzzard’s
Roost. Barnebey-Hambleton
Picnic Area
HIKE TO BUZZARD’S ROOST
06 Thu 10am
Take a rugged 4-mile hike
to Buzzard’s Roost.
Age 50 and older
Fern Parking Lot
FAMILY HIKE
16 Sun 1pm
Bring the kids for a 1.5mile hike and discover what
is going on in the forest.
Barnebey-Hambleton
Picnic Area
Glacier Ridge
SEPTEMBER
WALK AND WOOF
01 Thu 7pm
Enjoy a 2.5-mile hike with
your dog.
CAMPFIRE & STORIES
04 Sun 7pm
Enjoy s’mores around a
campfire and bring your own
food to cook.
Red Oak Trailhead
22 Parkscope
2ND HALF IN A DAY HIKE
22 Sat 10am
Hike seven miles to cover the
second half of the park’s trails
while enjoying fall colors.
Creekside Meadows Parking Lot
NOVEMBER
ALL THE TRAILS IN A DAY
05 Sat 9am
If you’re up for the challenge, hike every trail in the
park on a 14-mile adventure,
with light refreshments to
follow. Barnebey-Hambleton
Picnic Area
THE HEMLOCK FOREST
20 Sun 2pm
Experience the hemlock forest on a 2.5-mile hike. Learn
about the ecology of these
special habitats and how
volunteers are keeping an
eye out for invasive hemlock
woolly adelgid.
Fern Parking Lot
MEMORY ROCK
BACKCOUNTRY HIKE
25 Fri 10am
Join us for a rugged
5.5-mile backcountry hike.
Park Office
Meet at picnic area bulletin board unless otherwise noted
FOR ADULTS: FALL BIRDING
FOR BEGINNERS
07 Wed 10am
Search for migrating birds on
a 2-mile walk.
PRESCHOOLERS:
A BUG’S LIFE
09 Fri & 38335 / 38336
Explore the fascinating world
of our creepy crawlies and
catch insects on a short hike.
WALK & WOOF
19 Mon 7pm
your dog.
FALL STARGAZING
24 Sat 8pm
Look at planets and constellations using telescopes and
binoculars.
Energy Center
(at the Windmill) X
OCTOBER
WILDIFE
01 Sat 1pm
Visit with animals from Ohio
Wildlife Center to learn how
wildlife prepare for winter. X
WALK & WOOF
04 Tue 7pm
your dog.
GIRL SCOUT JUNIORS:
WILDLIFE HABITAT
08 Sat & 38353
Girls will rotate through
several stations to earn their
Animal Habitat badge.
FOR FAMILIES:
SENSORY NIGHT HIKE
21 Fri 7:30pm
Test out your five senses during a 1-mile hike in the dark.
NOVEMBER
FOR KIDS: ARCHERY
06 Sun 2pm
Learn how to shoot a compound bow. Age 8-17 Energy
Center (at the Windmill)
Highbanks
SEPTEMBER
SNAKE DISPLAY
03–05 Sat-Mon 10am–7pm
Learn about snakes and
other reptiles. X
SUMMER MOVIE SERIES
STAR WARS:
THE FORCE AWAKENS
03 Sat 8pm
Enjoy family-friendly displays
and activities before a big
screen presentation under
the stars of the blockbuster
movie, Star Wars: The Force
Awakens. Movie begins at
dark. Popcorn provided.
Note that the program and
movie will be canceled in
the event of storms or rain.
Please bring seating, any
other snacks, drinks and bug
repellent.
Big Meadows Picnic Area
EDUCATOR WORKSHOP:
NATURE ADVENTURE BOX
TRAINING
07 Wed & 38473
Learn to use our Nature
Adventure Boxes to get kids
outside exploring streams
and fields.
WALK & WOOF
13 Sun 2pm
your dog.
Mike Heisey
PRESCHOOLERS: PIRATE
NATURE SCAVENGER HUNT
06 Thu & 38348 / 38349
Play pirate games and search
the forest and fields for
treasure. X
LANTERN HIKE
19 Sat 5:30pm
Enjoy a lantern-lit 1.5-mile
hike through fields and
forest.
Bring your dog to enjoy the
monthly Walk & Woof program.
HIKE TO THE GIANTS
11 Sun & 38420
Hike four miles off-trail to the
300-year-old giant sycamores
along the Olentangy River.
PRESCHOOLERS:
ALIEN INVADERS
14 Wed & 38421 / 38422
15 Thu & 38423 / 38424
Learn about invasive species
like brown marmorated
stink bugs, multicolored
lady beetles and bush
honeysuckle. X
FISHING FUN
25 Sun 6pm
Enjoy fishing at the pond.
Poles and bait available, or
bring your own. Age 50 and
older Dragonfly Daycamp X
PRESCHOOLERS:
CREATURE COSTUMES
12 Wed & 38436 / 38437
13 Thu & 38438 / 38439
Wear your own costume and
discover why animals look
the way they do. X
OCTOBER
LANTERN STROLL
15 Sat 7pm
Lanterns will light the way
on a 2.5-mile walk along the
Dripping Rock Trail.
HIKE TO THE GIANTS
01 Sat & 38429
See Sept 11
HOWL AT THE
HARVEST MOON
16 Fri 7:30pm
your dog.
METRO FIVE-0: Level 3 TREE
TIME
02 Sun 6pm
Learn how to identify trees
as you watch the sunset on
a 3-mile hike. Age 50 and
older
HOMESCHOOLERS:
HONEYBEES
21 Wed 11am
Learn about bees, meet a
beekeeper and see how she
takes care of the Highbanks
beehive.
View this year’s winners
and cast your vote for the
People’s Choice Award. X
BAT CAMPFIRE
24 Sat 7:30pm
Enjoy a campfire and learn
about bats.
HOMESCHOOLERS: STREAM
QUALITY MONITORING
10 Mon 11am
Use seines and nets to check
the quality of the Olentangy
River as you wade in the
water. Big Meadows Picnic
Area
HOWL-OWEEN
AT THE MOON
16 Sun 6:30pm
Bring your costumed canine
friend for a 3.5-mile hike
under the full moon.
NATURAL PLAY AREA
ADVENTURES: EDIBLES
21 Fri 4pm
Explore the natural play
area and learn about edible
plants that can be found
in the parks.
Big Meadows Picnic Area
ANCIENT ATLATLS
23 Sun 3pm
Learn about primitive people
and their weapons and test
one out yourself.
Dragonfly Day Camp
Jill SNyder
FALL FUN
30 Sun 1–4pm
Jump in a leaf pile, take a
hayride and enjoy other
fun activities to celebrate
autumn.
Dragonfly Day Camp
NOVEMBER
PLOWS, PIGS & PEOPLE
05 Sat 10am
Enjoy a presentation about the
early settlers to the area. X
FAMILY NIGHT HIKE
06 Sun 6:30pm
Search for animals on a
2-mile hike.
DAY CAMP FOR THE
YOUNG AT HEART
09 Wed & 38157
Enjoy a day camp for active
adults, with natural history
lectures and more. Register
individually or with a friend.
Age 50 and older
HIKE TO THE GIANTS
11 Fri & 38616
Hike four miles off-trail
through the ravines to the
300-year-old giant sycamores
along the Olentangy River.
HOWL AT THE MOON
13 Sun 5:30pm
your dog.
PRESCHOOLERS:
BUSY BEAVER
16 Wed & 38449 / 38450
17 Thu & 38451 / 38452
Learn about beavers as you
enjoy crafts, stories and a
short hike. X
HOMESCHOOLERS:
ROCKS ROCK
18 Fri 11am
Explore different rock types
through various activities,
then take a hike to look for
rock formations in the ravine.
Homestead
SEPTEMBER
FAMILY SCAVENGER HUNT
05 Mon 1–4pm
Stop by the nature center to
pick up a nature scavenger
hunt and return it for a prize. X
24 Parkscope
EDUCATOR WORKSHOP:
INTEGRATED
ENVIRONMENTAL LESSONS
19 Sat & 38454
Participate in a variety of
hands-on learning activities
covering environmental topics. Targeted for educators of
grades K-7, but all are welcome. $5 workshop fee. To
register, or to receive Ashland
University credit for attending two workshops, contact
Linda Pettit, linda-pettit@
franklinswcd.org. X
SCOUT DAY:
WEBELOS EARTH ROCKS!
20 Sun & 38455 / 38456
Webelos (4th and 5th grades)
will participate in activities
that meet reqirements for the
Earth Rocks! badge.
Meet at barn shelter unless otherwise noted
PRESCHOOLERS:
A BUG’S LIFE
08 Thu & 38332 / 38333
Explore the fascinating world
of our creepy crawlies. Take a
hike and catch insects.
CHILDREN’S FISHING
11 Sun 2pm
Drop a line in the lake and
try to catch a big fish. Bait
and poles provided. Age 15
and younger X
BUCKEYE HIKE
17 Sat 4pm
Learn about Ohio’s state tree
and make a buckeye craft to
take home.
OCTOBER
TODDLER TIME:
FALL COLOR WALK
13 Thu 10am
Take a short hike to enjoy
the fall colors. X
FOR KIDS: FALL LEAF HIKE
17 Mon 10am
Enjoy a scavenger hunt and
make a leaf craft to take
home.
Inniswood
PRESCHOOLERS: PIRATE
NATURE SCAVENGER HUNT
20 Thu & 38351 / 38358
Play pirate games and search
the forest and fields for
treasure. X
SONGS AND S’MORES
22 Sat 1pm
Sing songs with Joanie
Calem and enjoy roasting
s’mores. Please bring outdoor
seating.
Every Sunday 1:30–3:30pm (through Oct 30)
Members of the Herb Society of America, Central Ohio
Unit, will be in the Herb Garden to answer questions. X
JUNIOR GARDEN
VOLUNTEERS
03 Sat & 38552
Help with fall garden
cleanup. Age 11-17
PRESCHOOL IN THE
GARDENS: WOOLLY BEARS
07 Wed
& 38559 / 38560 / 38562
Search for these fuzzy caterpillars crawling through the
garden and learn about their
lives from egg to moth. X
MEET THE ARTIST
11 Sun 2–4pm
Meet Robie Benve at a reception and view her oil and
acrylic artwork. X
EVENING GARDEN WALK
11 Sun 5:30–6:30pm
Join us for a guided evening
stroll through the gardens.
Gardens Entrance X
PRESCHOOLERS:
NUTTY SQUIRRELS
02 Wed & 38352 / 38354
Learn about squirrels through
a story, song and games.
RAPTORS
12 Sat 2pm
Enjoy a presentation and visit
with live raptors from Ohio
Wildlife Center.
Lakeside Pavilion
FOR KIDS: WILDLIFE HIKE
08 Tue 1pm
Take a 1-mile hike to look
for animal signs.
Meet at Innis House unless otherwise noted. (Look for our Garden Ambassadors, in yellow shirts,
Sundays noon to 4pm. They can answer your gardens-related questions)
SUNNY SUNDAYS
SEPTEMBER
NOVEMBER
BUMBLE BUSTLE
CHALLENGE
18 Sun 2–4pm
This non-competitive challenge combines walking and
fitness activities as you learn
about the importance and
physical abilities of the bumble bee. Gardens Entrance
MUSHROOMS
24 Sat 2pm
Explore the world of fungi
and their role in our gardens
and natural areas. Search for
mushrooms in the gardens.
Age 50 and older X
EVENING GARDEN WALK
25 Sun 5:30–6:30pm
Enjoy a guided stroll through
the gardens.
Gardens Entrance X
OCTOBER
JUNIOR GARDEN
VOLUNTEERS
01 Sat & 38554
cleanup. Age 11-17
MEET THE ARTIST
02 Sun 2–4pm
Join artist Lynn Bird at a
reception to view her oil
artwork. X
PRESCHOOL IN THE
GARDENS: MUSHROOMS
05 Wed
& 38620 / 38621 / 38622
Fungus is all around us, from
the yeast in our pizza dough,
to the puffball mushrooms
we find in the forest. Discover what makes fungi so
different from plants and
animals through activities,
crafts and a hike. X
GREATER COLUMBUS
DAHLIA SOCIETY:
FALL CARE
09 Sun 2pm
Learn how to save your
dahlia tubers for another
year of colorful blooms. X
AUTUMN WALK
09 Sun 4:30–5:30pm
Take a guided stroll through
the gardens.
Gardens Entrance X
WINTER HOMES FOR
MOTHS & BUTTERFLIES
15 Sat 2–3pm
Learn what some of our
common moths and butterflies do to survive winter
and what you can do to help
them. Age 50 and older X
GARDEN SCHOOL:
THE GARDEN BUZZ
21 Fri & 38624
Discover the buzz about
pollinators and what makes
butterflies, bees and hummingbirds so great in the
garden. Age 6-10 X
AUTUMN WALK
23 Sun 4:30–5:30pm
Enjoy a guided stroll through
the gardens.
Gardens Entrance X
HALLOWEEN PARTY
30 Sun 2–4pm
Enjoy activities and crafts in
celebration of the traditional
holiday. Education Pavilion X
View all of the entries in this
year’s photo contest and
cast a vote for the People’s
Choice Award. X
Susan Cross
JUNIOR GARDEN
VOLUNTEERS
12 Sat & 38556
cleanup. Age 11-17
BOOK CLUB
12 Sat 2–3pm
Join us for a meeting of the
quarterly book club as we
discuss The Flower of Empire
by Tatiana Holway. X
MEET THE ARTIST
13 Sun 2–4pm
Meet Doug Askew and view
his photography artwork at
a reception. X
NOVEMBER
PRESCHOOL IN THE
GARDENS: ROCKS ROCK!
02 Wed
& 38584 / 38585 / 38586
Discover different types of
rocks and find out why they
are important to us. X
WHAT’S BREWING?
05 Sat & 38625 / 38626
06 Sun & 38627 / 38628
Learn the basics of making
your own beer, the equipment needed and about
the plants involved in the
process. Jim Downing from
Buckeye Brewcraft will provide sample tastings.
Fee $15 X
Pickerington Ponds
COOKING WITH
MUSHROOMS AND HERBS
09 Wed 7pm
Join Janell Baran, owner of
Blue Owl Garden Emporium,
as she discusses qualities, flavor differences and seasonability of edible mushrooms.
Learn preparation methods
and herbal seasonings. Sponsored by Central Ohio Unit of
Herb Society of America. X
Prairie Oaks
SEPTEMBER
OWLS OF AUTUMN
04 Fri 6:30pm
Learn about Ohio’s owls and try to
lure them in with calls on a 1.5-mile
walk. Glacier Knoll Picnic Area
CANOE THE LAKES
05 Mon 1–4pm
Stop by anytime and take a canoe out
for a ride around Darby Bend Lakes.
Canoes and equipment provided. Children must fit into a life jacket to ride.
Gil Sears
FAMILY CRAFT WORKSHOP
20 Sun 2–4pm
Create holiday gifts with
family and friends. Materials
provided. Bring a bag to help
carry your creations home.
Meet at Darby Bend Lakes unless otherwise noted
For information on programs in Spanish, visit metroparks.net
NOVEMBER
26 Parkscope
COHABITATING
WITH SQUIRRELS
19 Sat 11am–noon
Learn about the squirrels
of Ohio and how to get
along with them around your
home and garden.
Age 50 and older X
INTRODUCTION TO KAYAKING
07 Wed & 38153 / 38154
Join staff from ODNR’s Division of
Watercraft and learn how to kayak on
calm, flat water. No prior experience
needed and all equipment provided.
Age 50 and older
FULL BARLEY MOON HIKE
16 Fri 7:45pm
Take a brisk 4-mile hike through fields
and forest.
LEARN TO KAYAK WITH OHIO
DEPT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
17 Sat & 38276 / 38277
Join staff from ODNR’s Division of
Watercraft and learn how to kayak on
calm, flat water. No prior experience
needed and all equipment provided.
Age 16 and older
LATE NIGHT FISHING
24 Sat 9pm
Fish Darby Bend Lakes
and Beaver Lake. X
OUTDOOR
ADAPTIVE ADVENTURES
25 Sun 11am–3pm
See box
OCTOBER
HIKE BACK INTO HISTORY
01 Sat 9:30–10:30am
Take a step back in time for
a 2.5-mile guided hike and
learn about the cultural history of the Darby Plains and
Big Darby Creek from costumed interpretors. Guided
hikes will start frequently
throughout the hour. X
OUTDOOR ADAPTIVE ADVENTURES
Sun Sept 25, 11am–3pm
Children with special needs and their families are invited to join Metro Parks
and the YMCA ECRN+ to participate in outdoor fun and physical activity as
you connect with nature and other families. Enjoy canoeing, kayaking and
fishing, meet live reptiles and amphibians, make a nature craft to take home
and touch animal furs. Boats, equipment and paddling instruction provided
by HERO USA.
Register online at OutdoorAdaptiveAdventures.Eventbrite.com. Contact Jen
Rosa with questions at 614.878.7106 or rosa@metroparks.net. X
JUST FOR KIDS:
OFF-TRAIL EXPLORATION
22 Sat 10am
Look for scat, tracks and
animal homes on a 1-mile
off-trail hike through the
forest and along the creek.
Age 6 and older
Prairie View Picnic Area
TAKE A HIKE WITH LL BEAN
23 Sun 2pm
Learn from LL Bean how to
pack a backpack properly
and enjoy a 3-mile hike along
Big Darby Creek.
Rocky Fork
NOVEMBER
JUST FOR KIDS:
SCREECH OWLS
05 Sat 6:45pm
Learn all about screech owls
and then try calling them
in on a 1-mile walk.
Age 6 and older
Beaver Lake
FULL BEAVER MOON HIKE
14 Mon 5:30pm
Take a brisk 4-mile hike
through the forest and
prairie.
Meet at Millstone Picnic Area Bulletin Board
SEPTEMBER
OCTOBER
NOVEMBER
FALL FLOWERS
03 Sat 4pm
Take a 1.5-mile walk to see
beautiful wildflowers.
FALL TREE HIKE
01 Sat 10am
Take a 2-mile walk and learn
about the different types
of trees while enjoying the
fall colors.
LANTERN STROLL
12 Sat 5:30pm
Light your way with one of
our lanterns on a 1.5-mile
walk. Age 50 and older
NIGHT CREATURES
22 Sat 7pm
Find out whoooooo comes
out at night on a search for
owls, flying squirrels, coyotes
and other nocturnal animals.
ENJOY A FALL FULL MOON
14 Mon 6pm
See the full moon and learn
some myths about our lunar
neighbor.
DOG WALK
04 Sun 7pm
Enjoy a 1.5-mile evening
stroll with your canine friend.
Age 50 and older X
JUST 4 KIDS:
BIRDS AND BINOCULARS
24 Sat 2pm
Learn how to use binoculars
to look for colorful birds in
the woods and fields. Binoculars available. Age 6-12
BEAVER BUILDINGS
19 Sat 4:45pm
Take a 1-mile walk to
see trees that beaver
have cut down, get an
up close look at an active
beaver lodge and look for
beaver swimming in the
lake as the sun sets.
Beaver Lake
CAMPFIRE COOKING
29 Sat 2pm
Learn tips and techniques
for cooking over a fire.
Age 50 and older
MEET ROCKY FORK
20 Sun 2pm
Take a 1.5-mile walk and
enjoy stories of what was
here before the area became
a park, and what will come
in the future. X
ROCKY FORK DOG PARK
Dan Bissonette
FLY FISHING WITH LL BEAN
17 Sat & 38278 / 38279
Bring your own fly fishing
gear and fish in the lake.
An LL Bean instructor will
be available to answer questions and share tips and
techniques. X
Since the dog park opened at
Rocky Fork last spring it has
become the Go-to-Place for Fido
and Family. The splash pad is
especially popular, and there is
also an off-leash dog trail.
programs with the bird symbol offered by Columbus Audubon
Meet at Grange Insurance Audubon Center unless otherwise noted
Scioto Audubon
LATE NIGHTS AT
THE CLIMBING WALL
2nd & last Friday of month
through October
The climbing wall will stay open till
midnight on Sept 9 and 30, Oct 14
and 28. We have four auto belays, but
climbers must bring their own climbing
harness. Late night fishing also available on these dates from the dock on
the Scioto River. Climbing Wall
SEPTEMBER
PRE-K STORYTIME
Every Thurs & Sat 10am
Bring your little ones for a natureinspired story or two.
THE AMERICAN BIRDING EXPO
16 Fri 1–5pm
The largest and most diverse shopping
experience available to bird watchers and
nature enthusiasts in North America. Free
to the public with opportunities to contribute to local conservation. See more at:
www.americanbirdingexpo.com
Sharon Woods
SEPTEMBER
HOMESCHOOLERS: SPIDERS
08 Thu & 38367 / 38369
Learn about our 8-legged
friends with activities and a
hike. X
FAMILY FUN: POND SAFARI
11 Sun 1–3pm
Learn about aquatic friends
that live in Schrock Lake.
Age 3-8 Schrock Lake West
Bulletin Board X
LEARN THE ROPES
26 Wed & 38732
See Sept 21
NOVEMBER
LEARN THE ROPES
09 Wed & 38733
See Sept 21
For information on programs at Sharon Woods in Spanish, visit metroparks.net
PAWPAW PROWL
24 Sat 2pm
Take a 1.5-mile walk in the
forest to search for the Ohio
banana.
Apple Ridge Bulletin Board
GO WILD! KIDS CLUB
25 Sun & 38381
Prepare for an off-trail spider
safari to catch these 8-legged
critters. Age 5-12
FAST-PACED ADULT
FULL MOON HIKE
15 Thu 8pm
Take a fast-paced, 2.8-mile
hike along gravel, paved and
natural surface trails.
PRESCHOOLERS:
8-LEGGED FRIENDS
27 Tue
& 38374 / 38376 / 38377
28 Wed
& 38378 / 38379 / 38380
Learn about spiders through
a story and activities and visit
with a few live specimens. X
SCOUT DAY:
BROWNIES BUGS
17 Sat & 38399 / 38400
Brownies will participate in
activities that meet some
of the requirements for the
Bugs Try-it. X
AUTUMN CAMPFIRE
SINGALONG
30 Fri 7pm
Join local singer and guitarist Joanie Calem and roast
marshmallows. Bring seating.
Apple Ridge Picnic Shelter X
28 Parkscope
OCTOBER
Stephanie West
BIRDWATCHING FOR BEGINNERS
1st & 3rd Sat 10am
Learn how to use binoculars and
search for birds.
COMMUNITY ROCK CLIMBING FESTIVAL
10 Sat 2pm
Enjoy a full day of fun with climbing clinics (for beginners), climbing competitions,
a slackline walk, yoga, food vendors and
crash pad sumo wrestling. We’ll end the
day by showing the Hollywood blockbuster movie, Everest, outdoors after dark
on a big screen.
LEARN THE ROPES
21 Wed & 38731
Instructors will guide participants
through the basics of climbing at the
32-foot wall. All equipment provided.
OCTOBER
OLDER HOMESCHOOLERS:
TECHNOTREK
05 Wed & 38405
Bring a smart device to play
a virtual reality game and
see if you have what it takes
to become a park manager.
Schrock Lake Picnic Shelter X
BEES:
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
08 Sat noon
Bring lunch and learn
about native pollinators and
Metro Parks’ efforts to help
honeybees.
Maple Grove Picnic Shelter X
I SPY NATURE CHALLENGE
09 Sun 2pm
Borrow an Adventure Backpack and take the I Spy Nature Challenge for a chance
to win a prize.
Natural Play Area
HOMESCHOOLERS:
GOIN’ BATTY
13 Thu & 38370 / 38371
Become a bat scientist and
learn about these winged
mammals. Age 6-12 X
GO WILD! KIDS CLUB
13 Thu & 38382
Go on a trek to explore fall
color and make a craft in
celebration of the season.
Age 5-12
FAST-PACED ADULT
FULL MOON HIKE
14 Fri 7pm
Take a fast-paced, 2.8-mile
hike along gravel, paved and
natural surface trails.
FAMILY FALL COLOR STROLL
16 Sun 2pm
Take a 1-mile stroll in search
of glorious fall colors.
Schrock Lake Restrooms X
ADULT FALL COLOR WALK
16 Sun 4pm
See spectacular autumn
displays on a 1.5-mile walk
through fields and forests.
LANTERN STROLL
21 Fri 7pm
Candle lanterns will light
the way on a 1-mile stroll
through the woods.
Schrock Lake Restrooms X
SCOUT DAY: WEBELOS
INTO THE WILD
22 Sat & 38401 / 38402
Webelos will participate in
activities that meet some
of the requirements for the
“Into the Wild” badge. X
PRESCHOOLERS:
HALLOWEEN OPEN HOUSE
28 Fri 9:30am
Wear your costume and
enjoy games, crafts and
other activities to celebrate
the season.
Spring Hollow Lodge X
FAMILY FUN:
AWESOME AUTUMN
29 Sat 10am
Explore the wonders of autumn with games, crafts and
other activities to celebrate
the season. Age 3-8 X
NOVEMBER
HOMESCHOOLERS:
BUSY BEAVERS
09 Wed & 38372 / 38373
Learn about the beavers in
Sharon Woods, discover their
habits and look for signs of
them on a short hike. X
GO WILD! KIDS CLUB
10 Thu & 38383
Explore off-trail in the natural
play area while you hunt for
items on a scavenger hunt.
Age 5-12
SCOUTS NIGHT HIKE
12 Sat & 38412
Explore the wonders of the
night forest on a 1.5-mile
scouts-only hike.
SEPTEMBER
PRESCHOOLERS AT THE
FARM: WORK AND PLAY
01 Thu 10–11am
Experience some of the daily
chores and fun of farm life
in the 1880s through games
and songs.
HOMESCHOOLERS
AT THE FARM:
WHAT WORK WILL I DO?
01 Thu 1pm
Learn about some occupations and trades and make
comparisons between working now and in the 1880s.
Age 10 and older
ALL IN A DAY’S WORK
04–05 Sun-Mon 1–3pm
See a display about 19thcentury occupations and the
history of Labor Day. X
FAST-PACED ADULT
FULL MOON HIKE
13 Sun 5:30pm
See Oct 14
GEOCACHING HIDE-N-SEEK
19 Sat 10am
Explore off-trail and learn
geocaching basics. GPS units
available. Natural Play Area
FAMILY FUN: TURKEY TIME
20 Sun 1–3pm
Join us for activities and
games and a gobble-good
time. Age 3-8
Spring Hollow Lodge X
TURKEY TREK
20 Sun 4pm
Enjoy an off-trail adventure
to find these feathered
friends. Spring Hollow Lodge
PRESCHOOLERS:
PUPPET SHOW
29 Tue
& 38387 / 38388 / 38389
30 Wed
& 38390 / 38391 / 38392
Join the Discovery Forest
Puppets on an autumn
adventure. X
Call 614.833.1880 for information
MORNING CHORES
17 Sat & 38664
See Sept 10
MORNING CHORES
10 Sat & 38663
Join the farmer in feeding
animals and other barnyard
chores. Age 5 and older
TEMPERANCE TIMES
17 Sat 1pm
Learn about the growing
Temperance movement in
the 1880s and its effect
on social issues that led to
Prohibition.
CATSUPS AND CONDIMENTS
10 Sat 1–3pm
Discover other kinds of
catsup besides tomato as the
farm ladies make sauces and
seasonings. X
WAYS OF THE WORKSHOP
18 Sun 1–3pm
Watch woodworking and
blacksmithing and learn
about tools used for common farm repairs.
FAMILY STORYTIME:
APPLES
24 Sat 10am
Sample apple varieties
and enjoy a story and a
craft. X
DRYING FOOD
25 Sun 1–3pm
Learn about drying as a way
to preserve food in the
1880s and see how a
19th-century food
evaporator works.
NOVEMBER
FROLIC AT THE FARM
01 Sat 4–6pm
Grab a blanket and bring
your picnic dinner to enjoy
on the lawn, and join is some
activities and fun, 1880s
style.
GIRLS OVERNIGHT
AT THE FARM
04 Fri & 38632
Discover what it was like
to live in an 1880s farmhouse with no electricity
or running water. Parlor
games, a night hike and
a craft will fill the evening hours. Wake up to
the call of the roosters
and after breakfast it will
be out to do morning
chores. Girls in grades
4-6
ROPES, KNOTS AND SPLICES
02 Sun 1–3pm
Use the ropemaking machine, try your hand at some
knots and splices and jump
rope to your favorite rhymes.
MORNING CHORES
08 Sat & 38665
FALL HARVEST
09 Sun 1–3pm
Help with seasonal harvest
activities as the farm prepares
for winter.
APPLES:
THEIR HISTORY AND USES
16 Sun 1–3pm
Help press cider, stir apple
butter over an open fire and
taste heirloom apple varieties
from the 1880s. X
PUMPKINS AND CORN
22–23 Sat-Sun 1–3pm
See a display of the many
varieties of pumpkins, gourds
and squash as well as corn,
and find out the many ways
these products were used on
an 1880s farm. X
FAMILY STORYTIME:
PUMPKINS
29 Sat 10am
Listen to a story and do
some activities relating to
pumpkins. X
30 Parkscope
Kim Graham
OCTOBER
FROM FLOCK TO TABLE
05 Sat 10am
Farm staff will answer
basic questions about
keeping small chicken
flocks and show how to
butcher chickens for the
home table.
A STITCH IN TIME
06 Sun 1–3pm
Watch or help as we
mend, do handwork and
use the treadle sewing
machine. X
MORNING CHORES
12 Sat & 38667
FIREWOOD WARMS
YOU TWICE
12–13 Sat-Sun 1–3pm
Try a two-man saw or a
shingle splitter while learning
about varieties of wood.
HOMESCHOOLERS
ON THE FARM:
THANKSGIVING TRADITIONS
17 Thu 1pm
Learn about typical Thanksgiving foods and their origin,
as well as the history of
many American Thanksgiving
traditions.
FOOD FOR THANKSGIVING
18 Fri 1–2pm
Tour the farm and discover
the origin of many typical
Thanksgiving foods.
MORNING CHORES
19 Sat & 38668
See Nov 12
SWEET TREATS
19 Sat 1–3pm
The ladies will prepare candy
and other sweet treats for
the holidays. X
TURKEYS, TRADITIONS
AND THANKSGIVING
20 Sun 1–3pm
Learn about some of the customs of Thanksgiving including uses of corn, pumpkins
and other foods, and the
butchering of the turkey.
INDOOR AMUSEMENTS
25–27 Fri-Sun 1–3pm
Try some indoor games and
toys, and challenge your
mind with 19th-century
puzzles. X
Slate Run Park
OCTOBER
HAYRIDE TO
THE PUMPKIN PATCH
22 Sat 2–5pm
Take a short hayride to the
pumpkin patch and back
and pick your own pumpkin to take home (one
per person).
Buzzard’s Roost Picnic Area
Meet at Confluence Trails Bulletin Board unless otherwise noted
Three Creeks
For information on programs at Three Creeks in Spanish, visit metroparks.net
SEPTEMBER
FALL HARVEST JAMBOREE
AT SMITH FARMS
HALLOWEEN FAMILY
FUN NIGHT
NO SCHOOL TODAY:
WINTER WILDLIFE SCIENCE
BARKING AND BREAKFAST
24 Sat noon-5pm
Enjoy hayrides, farm games,
crafts, a straw maze and more.
Parking $5. Call 614.645.3156
for more information.
Smith Farms,
3491 Watkins Road
22 Sat 5pm
Join us for not-too-scary
stories, a Jack-o-lantern walk
and a make your own s’mores
campfire, then go trunk-ortreating for candy. Kids of all
ages are encouraged to wear
costumes.
08 Tue 10am or 1pm
Discover how animals and
plants survive and even thrive
in winter. Age 5 and older
Heritage Nature Center,
551 Wirt Road, Groveport
03 Sat 9am
Enjoy breakfast snacks for
you and your dog then take a
pleasant 3-mile walk. X
FURS AND FEATHERS
DISPLAY
03 Sat 1–3pm
Look at and touch skins and
skulls of Ohio mammals and
birds. X
CATCH A BUG
04 Sun 2pm
Grab a net to catch some bugs
then learn to identify them.
FISHING AROUND
THE POND
05 Mon 10am
Cast a line and try to catch
some fish. Poles and bait
available. Age 15 and younger
Heron Pond bulletin board
CAMPFIRE BREAKFAST HIKE
HOMESCHOOLERS:
START A LEAF COLLECTION
27 Tue 10am
Start a leaf collection while
learning how to identify, classify and preserve tree leaves.
Age 6 and older
OCTOBER
BEFORE THE GPS
08 Sat 10am
Learn how to use a map and
compass then practice your
skills on a short orienteering
course.
NO SCHOOL TODAY:
NATURE HIKE
10 Sat 9am
Enjoy nature on a 2-mile hike
then have a breakfast prepared
over a campfire.
14 Fri 1:30pm
Take a fun-filled 1.5-mile hike
through the forest and by the
creek. Age 5 and older
TREE ID BIKE RIDE
COLLECTING LEAVES
11 Sun 2pm
Take a 6-mile ride with stops
along the way to learn how to
identify trees.
16 Sun 2pm
Find out how to identify and
preserve newly fallen leaves as
you start your leaf collection.
PRESCHOOLERS:
BUG ADVENTURE
PRESCHOOLERS:
GROWLY CRITTERS
13 Tue 10am
Learn about the world of
insects and spiders through
stories and activities.
18 Tue 10am
Explore the world of bears,
bobcats and other predators
through games and activities.
HOMESCHOOLERS:
EXPLORING INSECTS
18 Tue 1:30pm
Learn about the lives of predators great and small through
activities and games.
Age 6 and older
13 Tue 1:30pm
Catch and release insects while
discovering their vital role in
the world.
Heron Pond bulletin board
HOMESCHOOLERS:
ALL ABOUT PREDATORS
NATURAL PLAY AREA:
CAMPFIRE BUILDING
FOR KIDS
23 Sun 2pm
Learn how to safely build a
campfire then toast hot dogs
and marshmallows.
Age 6 and older
GRAPEVINE
WREATH MAKING
29 Sat 11am
Make decorative wreaths for
your home using items found
in nature.
LAST OF THE LEAVES:
TREE ID HIKE
OFF-TRAIL ADVENTURE
12 Sat 9am
Wander through bushes and
brambles on a 2.5-mile hike
visiting rarely seen parts of the
park.
MAKE A HIKING STICK
12 Sat 1pm
Get ready for winter by making
your own walking stick.
SCOUT DAY: WEBOLOS
INTO THE WOODS
13 Sun & 38246
Webolos (3rd and 4th grades)
will participate in activities that
meet requirements for the Into
The Woods badge.
30 Sun 2pm
Learn to identify trees from
their leaves, bark and seeds on
an easy 1-mile walk.
OWLS OF AUTUMN
NOVEMBER
WINTER CRAFT:
CANDLE HOLDER
PRESCHOOLERS:
HIBERNATION TIME
19 Sat 10am
Make and take home a rustic
candle holder from materials
found in nature. X
03 Thu 10am
Enjoy fun activities while
learning how wild animals stay
warm in the winter.
OFF-TRAIL WANDERING
05 Sat 10am
Take a 2.5-mile on- and offtrail hike through bushes and
brambles to experience rarely
seen parts of the park.
Age 50 and older
CAMPFIRE COOKING
06 Sun 2pm
Get tips and tricks for making
great campfire food and enjoy
some samples.
18 Fri 6:30pm
Learn about Ohio’s owls and
try to lure them in with calls on
a 2-mile walk.
Walnut Woods
OCTOBER
PARK TOURS
06 Thu & 38156
Join us for a 5-hour tour of
Walnut Woods and Scioto
Grove Metro parks. Transportation provided throughout
the program. Participants
have the option of departing
from Sharon Woods.
Age 50 and older
Parkscope
Metro Parks Album
Clockwise from left:
Geese fly over a meadow at Pickerington
Ponds, by Doug Crawford; Coyote in the fields
at Prairie Oaks, by Kim Graham; White oak
leaves at Highbanks, by Kim Strosnider.

Autumn 2016 - Metro Parks

Transcription

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