AUTUMN 2017 COLUMBUS & FRANKLIN COUNTY METRO PARKS METROPARKS.NET

Transcription

1 AUTUMN 2017 COLUMBUS & FRANKLIN COUNTY METRO PARKS METROPARKS.NET

2 from the executive director Four times a year, I am challenged to come up with a few words that best capture where we are, how we are doing and what to look forward to in your Metro Parks. Telling these stories is one of the most rewarding, and easier, parts of my job. The only questions are where to start and how to stop. No season better captures this than fall. Summer s heat will still be upon us when this issue hits the parks, which means our prairies will be in bloom. Large prairies, like the ones at Prairie Oaks and Battelle Darby Creek, are a terrific sight to see even as fall begins to creep up on us. The bison at Battelle Darby Creek are worth a visit in any season. And now you can see our new bull, who s keeping the bison gals happy. Their pasture is also home to the 13-lined ground squirrel, following a successful wildlife reintroduction project. With patience and a keen eye, you may be able to see these burrowing creatures as they get acquainted with their new home. As the cooler days and nights of fall approach, wildlife viewing reaches a peak. Our year-round inhabitants prepare for winter and migratory birds from the north travel through in large numbers. Head out to Pickerington Ponds for one of the best sites to see migrating waterfowl. Each day will bring something new along. As the leaves begin to change color, start at our north-end parks (Highbanks and Blendon Woods are particularly beautiful in fall) to capture your first glimpse of this annual spectacle. No matter if you are on foot, bike, or even viewing from the windshield of your car, our fall colors will never let you down. Peak color is usually the second week of October in the northern parks. The shifting hues advance slowly southward, keeping the great show going for up to four weeks. When most of the leaves have fallen in the northern and central parks, there will still be vibrant displays of leaves at Clear Creek. With almost 5,400 acres of pristine forest to explore, the long drive is well worth it. Make a commitment to get out and see everything fall has to offer. If a trip to your local Metro Park doesn t live up to your expectation, we ll double your money back. Tim Moloney, Executive Director 2 To learn more, visit metroparks.net

3 Announcing Metro Parks photo exhibition McConnell Arts Center 777 Evening Street Worthington OH Exhibition dates: March 22 to May 20, 2018 Photographers are invited to submit up to two photos now for jury review. SUBMIT photos at tiny.cc/mp-mac ENTRIES ACCEPTED TILL DEC 3, 2017 Full details and exhibition rules at tiny.cc/mp-mac-rules connect with us tiny.cc/mp-fb tiny.cc/mp-inst tiny.cc/mp-tw contents About Us / Opportunities_ 4 Friends of Metro Parks _ 5 Map_ 6 Parks _ 8 Programs_ 34 tiny.cc/mp-ytube Front cover photo: John Bonnett Back cover photo: Janice Piette tiny.cc/mp-blog tiny.cc/mp-news Web metroparks.net info@metroparks.net Information Reservations Fax InfoLine Deer at Highbanks, Adam Brandemihl To learn more, visit metroparks.net 3

4 about us Metro Parks are vitally important to establishing and maintaining the quality of life in our Central Ohio community, ensuring the health of families and youth and contributing to the economic and environmental well-being of a community and a region. Metro Parks attract more than 10-million people per year and offer exceptional settings for renewal of the human spirit. Visitors can enjoy healthy, fun-filled interaction with the natural world every day of the year. Each year Metro Parks naturalists offer over 4,000 free programs for individuals of all ages and abilities. Established in 1945, Metro Parks operates 19 natural area parks in seven Central Ohio counties, and provides more than 200 miles of trails. The park system protects more than 27,500 acres of land and water and offers year-round recreational and educational op por 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. The Mission of Metro Parks is to conserve open spaces, while providing places and opportunities that encourage people to discover and experience nature. In accordance with its mission, Metro Parks works to conserve and enhance habitat for the more than 2,400 species of animals and plants that thrive within the parks. Funding for Metro Parks comes from Franklin County property tax, local government funds, earned income, grants and partnerships. Metro Parks is a separate political subdivision of the state of Ohio organized under Ohio Revised Code, Section 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 JB Hadden Greg S Lashutka Jim McGregor Executive Director Tim Moloney opportunities Metro Parks is committed to conserving natural resources and providing places and opportunities that encourage people to discover and experience nature. To accomplish this goal, a well-trained, dedicated and talented staff is necessary. Job opportunities are very diverse and encompass a wide variety of positions ranging from Park Technician to Naturalist and Park Ranger, as well as seasonal and internship opportunities. Check frequently on the web at tiny.cc/mp-jobs. The online application system makes the application process faster, easier, and more eco-friendly. 4 To learn more, visit metroparks.net

5 Melissa Meyer Become a Friend Join Friends of Metro Parks metroparks.net/friends For the Love of Metro Parks Friends of Metro Parks is the non-profit partner of our park district with a mission to enhance public use and enjoyment of our parks, seek out public support, and advocate for our parks for current and future generations. Why should YOU become a Friend of Metro Parks? By joining the Friends you re showing your LOVE for the natural spaces of Central Ohio. Membership is free but donations are welcome and help us to continue to provide programming for all park goers. Plus, you ll be able to participate in special events open only to members. More details are available at metroparksfriends.org Follow us online at Facebook.com/Friendsof MetroParks or us at friends@metroparks.net for more information. To learn more, visit metroparks.net 5

6 Hempstead Rd Heritage Trail Park Blacklick Columbus & Franklin County METRO PARKS Hoover Reservoir Alum Creek Reservoir O Shaughnessy Reservoir Schleppi Rd Harlem Rd Sunbury Rd Ohio to Erie Trail 23 Riverside Powell Rd Drive Brock Rd 750 Glacier Ridge Polaris Pkwy Rocky Fork Rock y Fork Sharon Woods Highbanks 257 Walnut St Brevelhymer Rd Park Rd Main St Inniswood Worthington Galena Rd Central C ollege Rd E. Schrock Rd Hyland Croy Rd 270 Cemetary Pike Post Rd New Albany Rd 161 Dempsey Rd Dublin-Granville Rd Blendon Woods Tuttle Rd 23 Cleveland Ave Tuttle Crossing Blvd Cosgray Rd Hamilton Rd 71 3 Amity Pike Morse Rd Olentangy Wilcox Rd Heritage Trail Creek Cherry Bottom Rd Big Walnut Creek Alum Creek Trail River Olentangy Trail Hayden Run Rd Dublin Rd 270 Avery Rd Alum High St 315 Scioto Darby Rd 670 Creek 3 Darby Creek Trail Homestead Amity Rd 16 Scioto Trail Scioto River Plain City Georgesville Rd I-670 Trail Roberts Rd Prairie Oaks Blacklick Woods & Golf Courses 317

7 Pickerington Rd Brice Rd Livingston Ave Blacklick Creek Creek Hamilton Rd Alum Creek Dr Scioto Grove Walnut Woods Northern Rd Amanda Perrill Rd Bowen Rd Waterloo Rd Neiswander Rd Wright Rd Long Rd Blacklick Creek Trail Spangler Rd Wright Rd Gender Rd Winchester Pike Hill Rd Bowen Rd High St Bixby Rd Waterloo St Winchester Rd Mason Rd Slough Rd Lithopolis-Winchester Rd Lithopolis Rd Rd London Groveport Winchester Rd Rd Richardson Rd Winchester Walnut Creek Duvall Rd Marcy Rd Clear Creek 116) To Lancaster Seven miles south of Lancaster on US lear Cr e ek Rd C (C R Cle ar Creek Broad St Amity Rd Scioto Audubon Camp Chase Trail Darby Creek Dr Darby Creek Trail Darby 270 Big Creek Alkire Rd Scioto Trail 71 Norton Rd Battelle Darby Creek B i g D arby Creek Greenway Trails Williams Rd Main St 317 Three Creeks Pickerington Ponds Groveport Rd Slate Run Farm and Park 33 Chestnut Ridge Parsons Ave High Free Pike Little Darby Creek

8 BATTELLE DARBY CREEK Battelle Darby Creek is the largest Metro Park Battelle Darby Creek boasts more than 7,000 acres of forests, prairies, bluffs, wetlands and streams. BIG & LITTLE DARBY CREEKS The Darby Creeks harbor about 100 species of fish, five of which are endangered or threatened in Ohio. More than 40 species of mussels live in these waters, including the federally endangered clubshell and northern riffleshell, and eight more which are on the Ohio endangered species list. A remarkable diversity of species of birds, butterflies and other wildlife are also found in the forests and remaining prairies that line the creek banks. WILDLIFE A bonanza of wildlife viewing opportunities abound at Battelle Darby Creek that routinely include great-horned owls, flycatchers, ruby-throated hummingbirds, scarlet tanagers, belted kingfishers and green and great blue herons. Squirrels, white-tailed deer, wild turkeys and other forest species of wildlife inhabit the Darby Watershed. PRAIRIES In 1976, Metro Parks began a prairie restoration program at the park using hand-collected native seeds of remnant Darby Plains grasses and wildflowers found along railways and in fields. These were some of the last remaining plants from the more than 380 square miles of the original Darby Plains prairies. Today, Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park boasts more than 600 acres of lush prairies and 1,000 acres of restored wetlands and wet prairies. Bison have been reintroduced to the Darby Plains in one of the prairie areas intersected by the Darby Creek Greenway Trail. NATURE CENTER A 14,000 sq-foot nature center features a 53-foot living stream, stocked with creatures found in Big Darby Creek. PETS The Pleasant Valley Area and Osprey Lake feature pet trails and areas where dogs can swim. 8 To learn more, visit metroparks.net

9 Featured Events & Programs DARBY CREEK DAY 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 OCT 8 SUN 1 4PM FALL FEST PUMPKIN HIKE Enjoy a self-guided 1.5-mile hike on a jack-olantern-lit trail. Indian Ridge Bulletin Board OCT 28 SAT 6 8PM See all Battelle Darby Creek programs starting page 34 Park details ADDRESS 1775 Darby Creek Drive, Galloway OH ACRES 7,103 TRAILS Ancient (1.9 miles) / Camp Chase (12.5 miles) Cobshell (0.8 miles) / Darby Creek Greenway (5 miles) / Dyer Mill (3.2 miles) Edgewood, Lake & Prairie Way (2.3 miles) Harrier Loop, Rail Way & Teal (3 miles) Hawthorn (0.8 miles) / Indian Ridge (0.6 miles) Riffle Run (0.2 miles) / Terrace (2 miles) Turkey Foot (0.5 miles) / Wagtail (1.6 miles) ACTIVITIES Biking, Canoeing & Kayaking, Cross-Country Skiing, Fishing, Hunting, Ice Skating, Natural Play Area, Nature Center, Pets, Picnicking, Sledding DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB tiny.cc/mp-bdc Mac Albin HOURS & INFO Cedar Ridge area: 6:30am to 10pm April Sept 6:30am to 8pm October March All other park areas 6:30am to dark year-round Cell phone Nature Center Rental Facilities CEDAR RIDGE LODGE Lodge holds 72 people, has a gas fireplace, slide screen, WiFi, restrooms and a kitchen with refrigerator, stove, microwave, 30-cup coffee maker, outdoor grills and a deck overlooking Big Darby Creek. Parking for 30 cars. ADA accessible. Available for ALL DAY only ($250) rental. SHAGBARK SHELTER Shelter holds 80 people, has kitchen with sink, charcoal grill, electricity, a large serving counter. Also swing set, horseshoe pits and ADA accessible vault restrooms. Parking for 50 cars. Available for ALL DAY ($175) or HALF DAY ($100) rental. WHITE OAK SHELTER Holds 80 people, has kitchen with sink, charcoal grills, electricity and a large serving counter. Also drinking fountain, sand volleyball court with net (no balls), horseshoe pit, swing set, ADA accessible vault restrooms. Parking for 40 cars. Available for ALL DAY ($175) or HALF DAY ($100) rental. Make reservations online or phone To learn more, visit metroparks.net 9

10 BLACKLICK WOODS Blacklick Woods was the first Metro Park and features a 54-acre state nature preserve Blacklick Woods opened in 1948 and boasts one of the best beech-maple forests in Franklin County, along with a swamp forest and buttonbush swamp. A mosaic of beech-maple, ash-maple and oak-hickory woods comprises 291 acres of the park while the remaining land includes fields, picnic areas and two golf courses. NATURE CENTER The nature center s observation windows allow visitors to view birds and other wildlife at the feeders. Naturalists and volunteers are on hand to answer visitor questions. The nature center is open 8am to 8pm from April to September and 8am to 6pm October through March. STATE NATURE PRESERVE The Walter A Tucker State Nature Preserve is a heavily wooded 54-acre area featuring a buttonbush swamp. The seasonal swamp pools are prime locations for breeding salamanders and frogs. GREAT FOR BIRDING The park has numerous excellent vantage points for birding, including the clearing around Beech-Maple Lodge, the restored prairies, the golf courses, Ashton Pond and Blacklick Creek. Barred owls are a prominent attraction for birders in spring. They nest on the nature trails and can be seen swooping over Ashton Pond catching fish. Red-tailed and red-shouldered hawks are another attraction. Resident and migratory birds include pileated woodpeckers, kinglets, wood thrush and warblers. Nesting birds to look for include wood ducks, cooper s hawks and blue-gray gnatcatchers. A walk along the trails provides healthy exercise as well as an excellent opportunity to view white-tailed deer, coyotes, mink and other wildlife in a purely natural setting. GREAT FOR FITNESS Blacklick Woods has many miles of trails for walking, hiking and running. The Multipurpose Trail includes two exercise stations which provide cross-training opportunities to expand any fitness routine. (See page 32 for information about Blacklick Woods Golf Courses) 10 To learn more, visit metroparks.net

11 Featured Events & Programs FAMILY CREEKING Wade in Blacklick Creek and search for fish and crayfish. Includes a 2-mile round-trip walk. Nature Center SEPT 3 SUN 2PM HIKE ALL THE TRAILS Walk all six miles of trail at Blacklick Woods. Nature Center OCT 21 SAT 10AM PHOTO SCAVENGER HUNT Grab your smartphone or digital camera for a fun scavenger hunt and possibly win a prize. Nature Center NOV 24 FRI 1 4PM Park details ADDRESS 6975 E Livingston Ave, Reynoldsburg OH ACRES 643 TRAILS Beech (0.5 miles) Blacklick Creek Greenway (16 miles) Buttonbush (0.5 miles), Maple Loop (0.9 miles) Multipurpose (4.1 miles) Walter A Tucker (0.1 miles) ACTIVITIES Biking, Cross-Country Skiing Golf Courses, Nature Center Pets, Picnicking, Sledding DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB tiny.cc/mp-blk HOURS & INFO 6:30am to 10pm April to September 6:30am to 8pm October to March Cell phone Nature Center Kye Feasel See all Blacklick Woods programs starting page 37 Rental Facilities BEECH-MAPLE LODGE Lodge holds 72 people, has heating and air conditioning, a full kitchen with sink, refrigerator, microwave and electric range, plus a serving window. Also has a gas fireplace, large meeting room with pulldown screen, WiFi and restrooms. Outside patio with picnic tables and grills. Parking for 61 cars with two handicap spots. Available for ALL DAY only ($250) rental. BUTTERNUT, BUTTONBUSH, SASSAFRAS & WALNUT SHELTERS Butternut and Buttonbush shelters each hold 160 people, Sassafras 64 people, and Walnut 80 people. They all have charcoal grills and electricity. Full details of all four shelters are available at tiny.cc/mp-blk-shltrs Butternut and Buttonbush available for ALL DAY only ($175) rental. Sassafras and Walnut available for ALL DAY ($175) or HALF DAY ($100) rental. Reservations online or phone To learn more, visit metroparks.net 11

12 BLENDON WOODS Blendon Woods features the 118-acre Waldon Waterfowl Refuge Blendon Woods features 653 acres of gently rolling woods and open fields. More than 230 species of birds have been seen at the park. THE REFUGE At the heart of the Waldon Waterfowl Refuge, the 11-acre Thoreau Lake is a magnet for migrating waterfowl and shore birds. The refuge has been designated by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources as one of the state s 80 Watchable Wildlife Areas. Audubon Ohio has declared it an Important Bird Area (IBA). The refuge is open year-round and includes two elevated observation shelters with spotting scopes that allow for a close-up view of waterfowl without disturbing them. Birds frequently seen at Thoreau Lake include pied-billed grebes, great blue and green heron, Canada geese, wood duck, lesser scaup, American black duck, mallard, northern pintail, northern shoveler, American wigeon and hooded merganser. GEOLOGY As the Wisconsin glacier receded from Ohio about 17,000 years ago, the retreating ice, more than 1,000-feet thick, had a smoothing effect on the topography, rounding the hills and carving out and filling the valleys. Layers of Berea and ripple rock sandstones and Bedford and Ohio shale can be seen along the stream banks. NATURE CENTER A wildlife observation window offers a view of The Creek, a 100-foot-long construction mirroring natural creeks in the park. Naturalists and volunteers are on hand to answer questions. WINTER ACTIVITIES Ice skating enthusiasts can enjoy a safe 0.4-acre skating pond, only 18 to 24 inches deep. There is also a sledding hill for kiddies and beginning sledders. DISC GOLF Enjoy a round of disc golf on a 3,500-foot 18-hole course. Loaner discs available. CAMP SUGARBUSH Organized youth groups can reserve this 45-acre day camp, with a central gathering area, campfire rings, restrooms, shelters and trails. 12 To learn more, visit metroparks.net

13 Featured Events & Programs MONARCH WEEKEND See butterflies, caterpillars and chrysalises in the butterfly tent. Butterfly tagging hikes at 1:30 and 3:30. (More details p41) Nature Center SEPT 2-3 SAT-SUN 1 5PM FALL FUN DAY TRAM RIDES Enjoy a tram ride, see the beautiful changing colors of nature, play in a giant leaf pile, roast a marshmallow and make a craft. Follow signs for location OCT 22 SUN 1 5PM See all Blendon Woods programs starting page 41 Rental Facilities Park details ADDRESS 4265 E Dublin-Granville Rd, Westerville OH ACRES 653 TRAILS Brookside (0.8 miles) / Goldenrod (1.3 miles) Hickory Ridge (0.3 miles) / Lake (0.3 miles) Overlook (0.6 miles) / Ripple Rock (0.4 miles) Sugarbush (2 miles) ACTIVITIES Cross-Country Skiing / Day Camp Disc Golf / Ice Skating / Natural Play Area Nature Center / Pets Picnicking / Sledding (kiddie s hill) DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB tiny.cc/mp-bln HOURS & INFO 6:30am to 10pm April to September 6:30am to 8pm October to March Cell phone Nature Center Dan Bissonette DOGWOOD SHELTER Holds 110 people (80 under cover), has large grill, electricity, drinking water, serving counter, playfield, horseshoe pit and restrooms, 44 parking spots. ADA accessible. HICKORY GROVE SHELTER Holds 110 people (60 under cover) has electricity, a double-grill, drinking water, wood burning fireplace, play area, sand volleyball court with net and ball, disc golf putting practice game with discs, restrooms, plus 54 parking spots. (ALL DAY only) SHADBLOW SHELTER Holds 50 people (40 under cover), has large double-grill, electricity, drinking water, play area, horseshoe pit and ADA accessible restrooms, plus 43 parking spots. SYCAMORE SHELTER Holds 130 people (80 under cover), has kitchen with sink and serving counters, electricity, a large inside grill, playfield, sand volleyball court, net and ball, two horseshoe pits and restrooms, plus 68 parking spots. Hickory Grove available for ALL DAY only ($175) rental. Others available ALL DAY ($175) or HALF DAY ($100) rental. Reservations online or phone To learn more, visit metroparks.net 13

14 CHESTNUT RIDGE Chestnut Ridge is the first ridge in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains The park is situated on a narrow outcropping of Blackhand sandstone, deposited more than 300 million years ago when Ohio s ancient ocean drained from the land. The high hills that make up the ridge span about 4,500 feet and rise to 1,116 feet at the highest point. Black oak, shagbark hickory and northern red oak trees along the upper slopes and ridge enhance the woodland beauty of the 486-acre Metro Park. Sugar maples and American beech trees are plentiful along the lower slopes. MOUNTAIN BIKING The 9-mile Mountain Bike Trail through the woods provides a terrific workout for mountain bike enthusiasts of all abilities. The 12- to 18-inch-wide trail is on an all-natural surface and features a 230-foot change in elevation. The trail was designed and built by volunteers with the Central Ohio Mountain Bike Organization (COMBO). There is also a Pump Track, a loop of dirt berms and rollers, great for cyclists of all ages and abilities. Park details ADDRESS 8445 Winchester Rd NW, Carroll OH ACRES 486 TRAILS Homesite (0.4 miles) Meadows (1 mile) Ridge (1 mile) Mountain Bike (9 miles) ACTIVITIES Fishing Mountain Biking Picnicking DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB tiny.cc/mp-chr HOURS & INFO 6:30am to dark Cell phone Cheryl Bach 14 To learn more, visit metroparks.net

15 CLEAR CREEK Clear Creek is home to Ohio s largest state nature preserve Clear Creek Metro Park features over 5,300 acres of woodland interspersed with blackhand sandstone cliffs, ravines and creeks and is home to more than 2,200 species of plants and animals. Forested areas range from Canadian hemlocks and ferns, to oak and hickory, to Ohio s last remaining colonies of rhododendron. Visitors can fish for rock bass, smallmouth bass and trout in Clear Creek, or fish from the dock or the adjacent dam area at the 5-acre Lake Ramona. Park details ADDRESS Clear Creek Rd, Rockbridge OH ACRES 5,390 TRAILS Cemetery Ridge (2.5 miles) / Chestnut (2.2 miles) Creekside Meadows (1.7 miles) / Fern (1.7 miles) Good Prairie (0.3 miles) / Hemlock (1.5 miles) Lake (0.9 miles) / Prairie Warbler (0.6 miles) Tulip Tree (0.6 miles) ACTIVITIES Fishing, Pets, Picnicking DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB tiny.cc/mp-clc HOURS & INFO: 6:30am to dark, Office phone Featured Events & Programs WALK HALF THE TRAILS IN A DAY SEPT 30 SAT 9:30AM (1st half meet at Barnebey-Hambleton Picnic Area) OCT 28 SAT 9:30AM (2nd half meet at Creekside Meadows parking lot) WALK ALL THE TRAILS IN A DAY NOV 18 SAT 9:30AM (about 14 miles meet at Barnebey-Hambleton Picnic Area) HIKE TO MEMORY ROCK Enjoy a rugged 4-mile backcountry hike. Park Office OCT 8 SUN 11AM See all Clear Creek programs on page 45 Mac Albin To learn more, visit metroparks.net 15

16 GLACIER RIDGE Glacier Ridge is named for the ridge or end moraine left when glaciers retreated 14,000 years ago More than 50 species of birds have been seen at Glacier Ridge Metro Park s restored wetlands in the Honda Wetland Education Area. The wetlands include a boardwalk and a 22-foot observation tower to see waterfowl and other animals. Mink have been seen frequently in the area. The park has a bridle trail, the Savannah Trail, with a staging area for horse trailer parking. There is also a free 18-hole disc golf course, open year-round (bring your own discs). Park details ADDRESS 9801 Hyland Croy Rd, Plain City OH ACRES 1,036 TRAILS Ironweed (2.8 miles), Marsh Hawk (3 miles) Red Oak (0.8 miles), Savannah (5 miles) ACTIVITIES Biking Cross-Country Skiing Disc Golf Horseback Riding Pets Picnicking DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB tiny.cc/mp-glr HOURS & INFO 6:30am to dark Cell phone Featured Events & Programs WELCOME TO FALL FESTIVAL Celebrate the season with hayrides, live animals, crafts and activities. Bulletin Board at Picnic Shelter SEPT 24 SUN 1 4PM CREEPY-CRAWLY NIGHT HIKE Discover nature s scary night crawlers as you take a 1-mile hike. Bring flashlights. Age 5 and older Bulletin Board at Picnic Shelter OCT 14 SAT 7PM Bryan Knowles See all Glacier Ridge programs starting page To learn more, visit metroparks.net

17 HOMESTEAD / HERITAGE TRAIL Liviu Rodean Homestead features two large playgrounds for kids Homestead Metro Park offers a quiet, country atmosphere with a covered bridge, train station replica and two barns. Other features include shelters, a 2.5-acre fishing pond, play equipment and courts for sand volleyball and basketball. A 0.8-mile paved trail, great for hiking, biking, running, or walking your leashed pet, winds through the park and connects to the 6.1-mile Heritage Trail. Park details ADDRESS 4675 Cosgray Rd, Hilliard OH ACRES 44 TRAILS Outer Loop (0.8 miles) ACTIVITIES Fishing, Play Areas, Pets, Picnicking DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB tiny.cc/mp-hom tiny.cc/mp-htr HOURS & INFO For both Homestead and Heritage Trail 6:30am to dark Cell phone Rental Facilities AMPHITHEATER Accommodates up to 100 people, ideal for special events and weddings. ALL DAY ($230) or HALF DAY ($115) rental. COVERED BRIDGE A great venue for weddings and Scout bridging ceremonies. $45 for TWO HOURS. LAKESIDE PAVILION Holds 110 people and features 16 picnic tables with charcoal grills and electrical outlets. ALL DAY ($230) or HALF DAY ($115) rental. PINE PAVILION Holds 50 people, features six picnic tables with grills. ALL DAY ($90) or HALF DAY ($45) rental. To learn more, visit metroparks.net 17

18 HIGHBANKS Highbanks was named for the 110-foot shale bluffs on the Olentangy River Highbanks Metro Park encompasses 1,200 acres of woodlands, fields and wetlands. The forests include oak, maple, hickory and beech trees. Three miles of the Olentangy State Scenic River run along the park s western boundary. FASCINATING HISTORY & GEOLOGY Layers of exposed bedrock can be seen along many of the hiking trails. The bedrock formed 350 million years ago when Ohio was a tropical ocean. Limestone, found near the river, is covered by more than 100 feet of soft shale in the upper areas of the park. As the glaciers melted 10,000 years ago, the meltwater cut out deep ravines. Concretions are a noteworthy feature of the geology of the park. These round rocks developed around decaying animals on the ocean floor. Occasionally, fossils are found inside a concretion when it cracks due to weathering. In 1987, the fossilized jawbone of a prehistoric fish, dinichthys, was found in one. A life-size replica of this fish is on display with the fossil in the nature center. PREHISTORIC CULTURES Two Adena burial mounds can be seen from the Dripping Rock and Coyote Run trails. Hike through the Edward F Hutchins State Nature Preserve and stop by the observation deck for a view of the Olentangy State Scenic River. The deck sits atop a towering 110-foot shale bluff. Several prehistoric cultures used the bluffs as a lookout, including the Cole Culture who built the 1,500-foot horseshoe-shaped earthwork that sits directly in front of the overlook. The Cole Culture built the earthwork years ago. NATURE PRESERVE The preserve, named for Ed Hutchins, who served as Metro Parks Director for more than 20 years, is the site of one of the first active bald eagle nests in the park system. Eaglets have fledged here since Off-trail activities are prohibited in the nature preserve. RIVER BLUFF AREA This 42-acre area on the west side of the Olentangy River (8400 Olentangy River Road) gives access to the river for fishing, creeking, canoeing and kayaking. It also provides a very good viewing point for the eagle nest. Opening hours of River Bluff area are 7am to 7:30pm April to September, 7am to 5:30pm October to March. 18 To learn more, visit metroparks.net

19 Featured Events & Programs METRO FIVE-0: LEVEL 1 MORNING RIDE Tour the park on our tram. Age 50 and older Nature Center SEPT 8 FRI 10AM HOMESCHOOLERS: WEB IT OUT Enjoy a hike and explore food webs, producers, consumers and decomposers and learn what animals eat and how they find their food. Age 6-12 Nature Center OCT 24 TUE 10AM Park details ADDRESS 9466 US23 N, Lewis Center OH ACRES 1,200 TRAILS Big Meadows Path (1 mile) Coyote Run (3.5 miles) Dripping Rock (2.5 miles) / Multi-Use (2.3 miles) Oak Coves Path (0.4 miles), Overlook (2.3 miles) Scenic River (0.6 miles), Wetland Spur (0.4 miles) ACTIVITIES Biking, Canoeing & Kayaking, Cross-Country Skiing, Day Camps, Fishing, Natural Play Area, Nature Center, Pets, Picnicking, Sledding DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB tiny.cc/mp-hbk Greg Immel HOURS & INFO 6:30am to 10pm April to September 6:30am to 8pm October to March Cell phone Nature Center (Nature Center hours 9am to 8pm April to September, 9am to 6pm October to March) MOVIE AFTERNOON: TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES Learn about turtles then watch the original Ninja Turtles movie. Bring a blanket to sit on. Nature Center NOV 12 SUN 4PM See all Highbanks programs starting page 47 Rental Facilities MANSION SHELTER Holds 100 people (80 under cover), with two grills, electricity, stone fireplace, a drinking fountain and play area. Shares restrooms with the Northern Shelter. Available for ALL DAY ($175) rental only, April 15 to Oct 31. NORTHERN SHELTER Holds 120 people, with two grills, electricity, stone fireplace and wood burning stove, sink, small counter, playground equipment, large playfield, volleyball posts (no net/equipment) and a brick patio. Shares restrooms with the Mansion Shelter. Parking for 86 cars. Available for ALL DAY ($175) rental only, April 15 to Oct 31. NATURE CENTER MEETING ROOM Holds 99 people, tables and chairs, screen for projector (bring own equipment), kitchen with sink, refrigerator, coffee maker, microwave. Available for ALL DAY rental Monday to Friday, $250. Make reservations online or phone To learn more, visit metroparks.net 19

20 INNISWOOD Inniswood boasts more than 2,000 species of plants and several feature gardens Situated on 123 acres, Inniswood Metro Gardens is a continual source of inspiration for Central Ohioans of all ages. A natural woodland is home to native wildflowers, wildlife and waterways which provide a majestic backdrop to the beautifully landscaped gardens and lawns. Dedicated to the enjoyment, cultivation and Lauretta Bain preservation of nature s treasures, Inniswood boasts more than 2,000 species of plants, specialty collections and themed gardens, including a children s garden, as well as the Rose, Herb, Conifer and Woodland Rock gardens. THE INNIS SISTERS LEGACY Inniswood was once the 37-acre estate of sisters Grace and Mary Innis, who donated their home and property to Metro Parks in Their home, now Innis House, is the site for education programs, a non-lending horticulture library and staff offices. 20 To learn more, visit metroparks.net

21 INNISWOOD VOLUNTEERS Over 250 members strong, our fun, energetic and dedicated volunteers provide hundreds of hours of service each month and are crucial to the success of Inniswood Metro Gardens. Everything from outdoor gardening and greenhouse operations, to special events and programming welcome your helping hands. For more information about volunteer service and to find out about the next volunteer training class, call INNISWOOD GARDEN SOCIETY The Inniswood Garden Society (IGS) was created in 1984 to assist Metro Parks in the growth and development of Inniswood Metro Gardens in a manner that is consistent with the goals and philosophies of the park system. Additionally, IGS members assist with the promotion of Inniswood by sponsoring horticultural programs for its members and the public. You can support Inniswood by becoming a member of the Inniswood Garden Society. Visit inniswood.org to learn about membership. Park details ADDRESS 940 S Hempstead Rd, Westerville OH ACRES 123 TRAILS Boardwalk (0.5 miles) Brookwood (0.5 miles) Chipmunk Chatter (0.6 miles) Frog Talk Walk (0.1 miles) Sisters Garden Loop (0.3 miles) Spring Run (0.3 miles) ACTIVITIES Biking/Pets (outside gardens on Chipmunk Chatter Trail) DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB tiny.cc/mp-inn HOURS & INFO 7am to dark Innis House Cell phone Featured Events & Programs BUMBLE BUSTLE CHALLENGE Enjoy walking and fitness activities and learn about the importance and physical abilities of the bumble bee. Gardens Entrance SEPT 24 SUN 2 4PM HALLOWEEN PARTY Enjoy activities and crafts to celebrate the holiday. Education Pavilion OCT 29 SUN 2 4PM See all Inniswood programs starting page 50 Feature Gardens BROOKWOOD TRAIL GARDEN seasonal displays with hosta collection and perennial border CIRCLE GARDEN four mixed planting points create a compass of seasonal color CONIFER GARDEN collection of evergreen and deciduous conifers, including dwarf varieties CUTTING GARDEN annual and perennial plants suitable for use as cut flowers FERN GARDEN features a collection of rare and unusual hardy ferns HERB GARDEN a wide variety of herbs grouped by uses; features a thyme collection MEMORIAL GARDEN shade gardens featuring island beds of mixed perennial and woody plants, location of signature Inniswood gate and site where the Inniswood hosta was discovered ROSE GARDEN collection of hybrid tea, floribunda, climbing and Earth-Kind roses SISTERS GARDEN seven gardens honoring Grace & Mary Innis THE WOODLAND ROCK GARDEN cascading waterfalls amid conifers and woodland plants To learn more, visit metroparks.net 21

22 PICKERINGTON PONDS Dan Ferrin Pickerington Ponds is home to one of Franklin County s largest remaining natural wetlands Pickerington Ponds is a premier spot for birdwatching, with more than 260 species seen. The combination of seasonal ponds and rich wetland vegetation, with bordering woodlands, serve as a magnet for migrating waterfowl, shore birds and land birds. Deer, beaver, fox and other wildlife can be seen near the ponds and adjoining woods and fields of this 1,608-acre park. More than 400 acres have been designated a state nature preserve. Since 2000, Metro Parks has restored more than 750 acres of wetland and surrounding upland habitat, such as grassland and woodland, to reestablish the native wetland and plant communities that existed on the sites prior to their conversion for agriculture. The park has been designated as one of Ohio s Important Birding Areas by Audubon Ohio. Sandhill cranes are seen frequently flying over the ponds. Great blue heron and osprey nest here. Park details ADDRESS 7680 Wright Rd, Canal Winchester OH ACRES 1,608 ACTIVITIES Biking Nature Preserve Pets Picnicking TRAILS Arrowhead (1.7 miles) Blacklick Creek Greenway (16 miles - connects with Three Creeks and Blacklick Woods) Killdeer (1.1 miles) Meadowlark (1 mile) Yellowlegs (0.5 miles) DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB tiny.cc/mp-pkp HOURS & INFO 6:30am to dark Cell phone To learn more, visit metroparks.net

23 PRAIRIE OAKS Prairie Oaks features nearly 500 acres of lush flowering prairies and grasslands Big Darby Creek flows through the 2,203-acre park and provides a beautiful backdrop for outdoor adventure. The park also has several deep lakes for fishing and boating at Darby Bend Lakes and a natural play area around Beaver Lake. Ashy sunflower, royal catchfly and other prairie flowers can be seen against a backdrop of big and little bluestem grasses. Northern harriers, meadowlarks, coyote, jumping mice and Henslow s sparrow can be seen throughout the changing seasons. Park details ADDRESS 3225 Plain City-Georgesville Rd, West Jefferson OH ACRES 2,203 ACTIVITIES Biking, Boating, Canoeing/Kayaking, Cross-Country Skiing, Fishing, Horse Riding, Natural Play Area, Pets, Picnicking Featured Events & Programs Mike Fetherolf TRAILS Alder (0.6 miles), Beaver Lake (0.9 miles) Bridle (5.7 miles), Coneflower (2.5 miles) Darby Creek Greenway (3.5 miles) Lakeview (0.9 miles), River Rock (0.7 miles) Sycamore Plains (2.2 miles) DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB tiny.cc/mp-pok HOURS & INFO 6:30am to dark Cell phone ADAPTIVE ADVENTURES Special needs families are invited to connect with nature and each other with an afternoon of canoeing, kayaking, fishing and much more. (Full details on page 52) SEPT 10 SUN 10AM SUNSET AT THE LAKE Watch for wildlife as the sun sets over the water and enjoy s mores around a campfire. Bring your own food to cook and something to sit on. Darby Bend Lakes SEPT 10 SUN 10AM See all Prairie Oaks programs starting page 52 To learn more, visit metroparks.net 23

24 ROCKY FORK Rocky Fork includes an off-leash trail for dogs and a dog park Rocky Fork Metro Park features more than three miles of walking trails that wind through woods and fields. There is also a dog park and a bridle trail for horseback riding. The Millstone Picnic Area has a large shelter for family picnics and a play area for kids, featuring three large climbing boulders, with an elevated boardwalk to provide ADA access to the top of one boulder. Enjoy sitting in the big wooden chairs behind the shelter as you look for wildlife in the open fields. There is also an off-leash dog trail, the first in the park system. Park details ADDRESS 7180 Walnut St, Westerville OH ACRES 1,003 TRAILS Beech Woodland (1.3 miles) Bridle (2.5 miles), Dog (0.3 miles) Millstone Connector (0.5 miles) North Meadow (1 mile) ACTIVITIES Biking, Horseback Riding Pets, Picnicking, Swings DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB tiny.cc/mp-rky HOURS & INFO 6:30am to dark Cell phone Featured Events & Programs SWIFT NIGHT OUT Look for chimney swifts congregating in our tower before they migrate south. Includes a half-mile walk. Millstone Picnic Area SEPT 8 FRI 7:30PM METRO FIVE-0: Level 3 DISCOVERY WALK Search for plants and animals preparing for winter as you take a 1.5-mile hike. Age 50 and older Millstone Picnic Area X NOV 18 SAT 2PM See all Rocky Fork programs starting page 53 Carey Sherrill 24 To learn more, visit metroparks.net

25 SCIOTO AUDUBON Scioto Audubon is the only downtown Metro Park and features a 35-foot climbing wall An old industrial site on the Scioto River has been transformed into a 120-acre park that serves as a haven for wildlife and a place for the young at heart and urban professionals interested in active recreation. The climbing wall features bouldering, top rope and lead climbing. There are four auto belays, but climbers must bring their own climbing harness. There is also a 9-station obstacle course. The area has been designated as an Important Bird Area (IBA) by Audubon and Birdlife International. Fishing and boating are available on the river and the park also features a 2.5-acre dog park and a quarter-acre butterfly garden. Park details ADDRESS 400 W Whittier St, Columbus OH ACRES 120 ACTIVITIES Biking, Boating, Canoeing/Kayaking, Fishing, Obstacle Course, Pets, Picnicking, Rock Climbing TRAILS Scioto Greenway (2 miles) Hermit Thrush (0.1 miles), Wetland (0.4 miles) Connector Trails (2.5 miles) DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB tiny.cc/mp-sio HOURS & INFO 6:30am to 10pm April to September 6:30am to 8pm October to March Cell phone Featured Events & Programs LATE NIGHT AT THE CLIMBING WALL The climbing wall will stay open till midnight. We have four auto belays, but climbers must bring their own climbing harness. Climbing Wall SEPT 8 FRI 8PM MIDNIGHT SEPT 22 FRI 8PM MIDNIGHT GREENWAYS BIKE SAFETY Meet Guss the Groundhog and learn about bike safety for beginners and basic bike repair, followed by a ride on the Scioto Greenway Trail. (Friends of Metro Parks event) SEPT 9 SAT 10AM NOON Kelli Bergheimer See all Scioto Audubon programs starting page 54 To learn more, visit metroparks.net 25

26 SCIOTO GROVE Scioto Grove features mature forests and scenic bluffs overlooking the Scioto River The 620-acre park has more than seven miles of trails, two picnic areas with shelters, tables and grills, a kids play area and several overlook decks. The park is located on a scenic bend of the Scioto River and is a great destination for canoeists, kayakers, anglers and people wanting to see waterfowl and other wildlife. Dogs on leashes are welcome throughout the park, which also features a sledding hill. A 3D archery course (and a separate static or traditional archery course) makes the park the place to go for archery enthusiasts. With support from outdoor retailer REI, we constructed a backpack trail along the river for those just getting into the sport, as well as those seasoned backpackers who want a quick overnight without having to journey several hours. Backpacking is free and reservations can be made by calling Backpacking available for reservation every other weekend from mid-april to the end of Ocober. Park details ADDRESS 5172 Jackson Pike, Grove City OH ACRES 620 TRAILS Arrowhead (1.3 miles), Hickory (0.6 miles) Mingo (2.5 miles), Overlook (1.7 miles) REI River (1.2 miles) ACTIVITIES Archery, Backpacking, Canoeing/Kayaking Fishing, Pets, Sledding DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB tiny.cc/mp-sgr HOURS & INFO 6:30am to 10pm April to September 6:30am to 8pm October to March Cell phone Virginia Gordon Featured Events & Programs FLINT KNAPPING Learn the ancient art and make your own arrowhead. Arrowhead Picnic Area OCT 14 SAT 10AM See all Scioto Grove programs starting page To learn more, visit metroparks.net

27 SHARON WOODS Sharon Woods features oak- hickory, beech-maple and swamp forests in its 761 acres The park includes seven miles of trails, with two miles winding through the 320-acre Edward S Thomas State Nature Preserve, named in honor of a renowned Ohio naturalist and one of Metro Parks founding park board members. The park has eight species of oaks, some more than 250 years old, along with large hickory, maple and beech trees. The 11-acre Schrock Lake provides a scenic backdrop where you can enjoy the splashing of waterfowl on the water, glimpse a painted turtle sunning on a rock or see the sunset from the docks. Park details ADDRESS 6911 Cleveland Ave, Westerville OH ACRES 761 TRAILS Edward S Thomas (1.1 miles) Lake (0.4 miles), Oak Openings (0.2 miles) Spring Creek (1.8 miles) Multipurpose (3.8 miles), Connector (0.3 miles) ACTIVITIES Biking, Fishing, Natural Play Area, Nature Preserve, Pets, Picnicking, Sledding DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB tiny.cc/mp-shn HOURS & INFO 6:30am to 10pm April to September 6:30am to 8pm October to March Cell phone Featured Events & Programs FAMILY CAMPFIRE & SINGALONG Join local singer and guitarist Joanie Calem and roast marshmallows. Bring seating. Apple Ridge Picnic Shelter X SEPT 8 FRI 7:30PM SHARON WOODS OPEN HOUSE Vote for your favorite critter and pick up a scavenger hunt to help you explore the park and possibly win a prize. Naturalist Office X NOV 7 TUE 10AM 2PM Allison Shaw See all Sharon Woods programs starting page 57 To learn more, visit metroparks.net 27

28 SLATE RUN PARK & FARM Daniel White Slate Run Wetlands are the site of nesting sandhill cranes A 156-acre wetland wildlife refuge features a mosaic of restored marshes, meadows and ponds. More than 150 species of birds have been recorded here, including northern harriers, sandhill cranes, green herons and nesting blue-winged teal. Upland areas include prairie grasses, coolseason grasses, hardwood forest and remnant wooded fence rows and has developed into one of the premier butterfly and birding sites in Central Ohio. The 14-acre Buzzard s Roost Lake is also a magnet for birds. SLATE RUN LIVING HISTORICAL FARM The historical farm provides opportunities for visitors to compare farm work and family life of the 1880s with their lives today. By developing a living historical farm, Metro Parks is preserving and interpreting the agricultural history of the area an element of our heritage that is disappearing as rapidly as our forests and swamplands. Farm programs illustrate how most of the land was once used. DAILY LIFE ON THE FARM Visitors can experience first-hand what life was like on an 1880s Ohio farm. As you stroll through the gardens, barns and farmhouse, you will see the farm s costumed staff and volunteers going about their daily chores. Pigs, 28 To learn more, visit metroparks.net

29 geese, turkey, sheep, Percheron horses and other heirloom animals can be seen. The activities change with the day and the season because this is a working farm. Much of the work of farm life in the 1880s was monotonous and repetitive. Life, for the family who lived here, was a series of chores dictated by the seasons and weather. The family worked hard to raise livestock and crops, for home use as well as for sale, to enable them to buy an ever-increasing number of manufactured goods. HEIRLOOM CROPS The crops, fruits and vegetables are heirloom varieties grown in the late 19th century. The types and breeds of livestock are typical of those found back then on a Central Ohio farm. Cattle, hogs and poultry are raised for milk products, meat and eggs. The surplus is sold for cash, just as it would have been in the 1880s. Park details ADDRESS 1375 SR674 North, Canal Winchester OH ACRES 1,705 TRAILS Bobolink (1.5 miles), Camp Starview (2 miles) Covered Bridge (0.5 miles), Five Oaks (1.5 miles) Kokomo (1.5 miles), Lake (0.4 miles) Sassafras (2.5 miles - horseriding only) Shagbark (0.5 miles), Sugar Maple (1.4 miles) ACTIVITIES Day Camps, Fishing, Horseback Riding, Natural Play Area, Pets, Picnicking DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB tiny.cc/mp-slr OR tiny.cc/mp-srf HOURS & INFO 6:30am to dark Cell phone Farm phone Featured Programs (Park) FAMILY HARVEST Enjoy a hayride and apple cider, and pick Indian corn and pumpkins to take home. Buzzard s Roost Picnic Area OCT 21 SAT 2 5PM Featured Programs (Farm) HERBS ON THE FARM Learn about traditional uses of herbs in cooking and medicine. Farmhouse SEPT 16 SAT 1 3PM FALL HARVEST Help with seasonal activities as the farm prepares for winter. Farmhouse SEPT 30 SAT 1 3PM FIREWOOD WARMS YOU TWICE Try a two-man saw or a shingle splitter while learning about varieties of wood. Farmhouse NOV SAT-SUN 1 3PM See all Slate Run and Slate Run Farm programs starting page 59 Farm hours (autumn) SEPT/OCT TUES-SAT 9AM to 4PM SUN 11AM to 4PM (OPEN Labor Day, NOON to 6PM) NOV WED-SAT 9AM to 4PM SUN 11AM to 4PM (CLOSED Thanksgiving Day) Must See SLATE RUN FARMHOUSE The gothic revival farmhouse was built in 1856 and restored by Metro Parks for authenticity. Guests can tour the living room, parlor and kitchen and watch the ladies prepare the meals and tend the house. To learn more, visit metroparks.net 29

30 THREE CREEKS Three Creeks is named for the confluence of Alum, Blacklick and Big Walnut creeks Three Creeks is made up of five distinct areas connected through the Alum Creek Greenway Trail. Metro Parks operates the Confluence Trails and Heron Pond areas and the City of Columbus Recreation and Parks Department operates the Madison Mills, Smith Farms and Sycamore Fields areas. This most creek-centric of Ohio s parks is the major hub in the Franklin County Greenways program, an interconnected system of trails along the major streams in Central Ohio. Park details ADDRESS 3860 Bixby Road, Groveport OH ACRES 1,100 TRAILS Alum Creek (24.5 miles), Blacklick Creek (16 miles), Bluebell (1 mile), Confluence (1mile) Evergreen (0.5 miles), Heron Pond (0.6 miles) Madison Mills (0.2 miles), Sycamore Fields and Smith Farm trails (1.2 miles), Turtle Pond (0.4 miles) ACTIVITIES Biking, Canoeing/Kayaking, Fishing, Natural Play Area, Pets, Picnicking DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB tiny.cc/mp-thc HOURS & INFO 6:30am to 10pm April to September 6:30am to 8pm October to March Cell phone Featured Events & Programs MUD & MADNESS Crawl through mud and over obstacles on a 1.5-mile fun family adventure. Confluence Trails Bulletin Board SEPT 16 SAT 10AM HALLOWEEN FAMILY FUN NIGHT Join us for not-too-scary stories and s mores at the campfire and go trunk-or-treating for candy. Kids encouraged to wear costumes. Confluence Trails Bulletin Board OCT 21 SAT 5PM See all Three Creeks programs starting page 61 John Bonnett 30 To learn more, visit metroparks.net

31 WALNUT WOODS Walnut Woods is bordered by Walnut Creek and features dramatic stands of pine trees Walnut Woods includes restored wetlands that provide habitat for waterfowl such as geese, swans, mallards, wood ducks, mergansers and teals. Some of the wetlands dry out in summer and create a muddy habitat ideal for shorebirds and wading birds, such as killdeer, Wilson s snipe, greater and lesser yellowlegs, bitterns, rails and various species of sandpipers. Several vernal pools attract breeding amphibians in spring. There are numerous buckeye trees alongside the creek, and long rows of old nursery trees, such as serviceberry, crab apple and red maples. The Tall Pines Area is noted for pine and sweetgum trees. There are two dog parks in the Buckeye Area, one for large dogs (20 pounds and over), and another for small dogs. The 3-acre large dog park includes a separate fenced doggie swimming pond, and a small shade shelter with a picnic table. The 1-acre small dog park also includes a shade shelter and picnic table. Park details ADDRESS 6716 Lithopolis Rd, Groveport OH ACRES 1,098 TRAILS Buckeye (2 miles) Kestrel (1.3 miles) Monarch (1.4 miles) Sweetgum (2.6 miles) ACTIVITIES: Biking Canoeing/Kayaking Fishing Pets Picnicking Sledding DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB tiny.cc/mp-wal HOURS & INFO 6:30am to dark Cell phone Mindi McConnell To learn more, visit metroparks.net 31

32 BLACKLICK WOODS GOLF COURSES Terrence Peck Blacklick Woods Golf Course is spread over 235 acres of beautiful park land Blacklick Woods Golf Course feature an 18-hole regulation course (par 72), a 9-hole executive course (par 30), a full-service driving range with a short game area, and three practice holes. For tee times, golf outings or banquets, call Tee times can also be booked online. In addition to regular golf cart rentals, Metro Parks has two solo adaptive carts for rental by golfers who are physically challenged and can no longer play golf the conventional way. These carts allow you to play from tee to green without ever having to leave the cart. As home to First Tee of Central Ohio, Metro Parks has turned a 10-week summer program at Blacklick Woods Golf Course into a year-round outreach program. First Tee is an amazing program that teaches life skills and leadership through the game of golf to youth age 7 to 17. Last year more than 1,000 youth participated with us in this nationally recognized program. For more on First Tee of Central Ohio visit their website: thefirstteecentralohio.org Golf Course details ADDRESS 7309 E Livingston Avenue, Reynoldsburg OH DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB tiny.cc/mp-blkg HOURS & INFO 6:30am to dark Golf shop phone Rental Facilities BANQUET ROOM Banquet Room holds up to 99 people. It has a kitchen with a triple sink, full-size refrigerator, microwave and warming ovens. Also has a gas fireplace, overhead sound system and a 1,200 sq ft attached patio. ADA accessible. Available for rental as follows: 7:30AM to 4PM ($250) 5PM to 10PM ($250) 7:30AM to 10PM ($400) 32 To learn more, visit metroparks.net

33 ?? programs GREENWAYS Greenway trails connect scenic rivers with the diverse neighborhoods of Central Ohio Metro Parks works with several agencies and communities to create and maintain parts or all of the Greenway trails shown on this page for the citizens of Central Ohio. The Central Ohio Greenways are multi-use trails used for recreation and alternative transportation. They connect people to the places they live, work and play as well as preserve open space to promote air and water quality. (More information at tiny.cc/mp-gtr or from MORPC at: Greenway Trails ALUM CREEK (24.5 miles) Runs south from Westerville to Three Creeks BLACKLICK CREEK (16 miles) Connects Pickerington Ponds, Blacklick Woods and Three Creeks Metro parks Cheryl Blair CAMP CHASE (12.5 miles) Part of the Ohio to Erie Trail, weaves through Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park DARBY CREEK (8.5 miles) Crushed gravel trail with sections in Battelle Darby Creek and Prairie Oaks Metro parks HERITAGE (6.5 miles) Runs from Old Hilliard to Plain City, through the Heritage Trail Park and along Homestead Metro Park DOWNTOWN CONNECTOR (5 miles) Metro Parks manages a 0.8-mile section of the trail, also known as the I-670 Trail OLENTANGY (15 miles) Scenic trail runs south from Worthington Hills Park to Confluence Park in downtown Columbus SCIOTO (10 miles) Stretches through the heart of Columbus and through Scioto Audubon Metro Park To learn more, visit metroparks.net 33

34 Battelle Darby Creek programs metro parks programs sept, oct, nov 2017 (advanced registration opens Aug 23) METRO FIVE-0 programs for age 50 and older are 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) BATTELLE DARBY CREEK September MAMMAL DISPLAY See skins, scat, skulls and skeletons. SEPT 2 SAT 1 4PM BIRDS DISPLAY See mounts, eggs, nests and skulls of songbirds, raptors and waterfowl. SEPT 3 SUN 1 4PM COLD-BLOODED CREATURE FEATURE View a display of amphibians and reptiles. SEPT 4 MON 1 4PM FULL CORN MOON HIKE Take a brisk 4-mile hike through fields and forest. Ranger Station SEPT 6 WED 7:30PM PHOTO GROUP: PHOTO STACKING Learn techniques to combine images for maximum focus. Nature Center SEPT 9 SAT 10AM YOGA IN THE PARK Learn movements in an outdoor setting to help rejuvenate your mind and body. Ranger Station SEPT 9 SAT 11:30AM FEED THE STREAM Help us serve a meal to the creatures in the living stream. SEPT 9 SAT 2PM PRESCHOOLERS: SPIDERS Discover the lives of these 8-legged critters through story, song and craft. SEPT 12 TUE 9:30 OR 11AM METRO FIVE-0: Level 1 MONARCHS Learn about the butterfly s life cycle and its migration to Mexico. Age 50 and older Nature Center SEPT 16 SAT 10AM 34 To learn more, visit metroparks.net

35 Battelle Darby Creek programs FAMILY CREEKIN Catch and release aquatic wildlife in Big Darby Creek. Ranger Station SEPT 16 SAT 1PM GLOW WORMS Seek out this insect s mysterious glow as you take a 2-mile hike. Indian Ridge Bulletin Board SEPT 16 SAT 8PM UNDERWATER STUDY Bring your own snorkeling equipment and get a close-up look at the behavior of animals that live in the water and under the rocks of Big Darby Creek. Ranger Station SEPT 17 SUN 1PM CANOE FLOAT Take a ride out on the lake. Children must fit into a life jacket to ride. Pleasant Valley Bulletin Board SEPT 17 SUN 5:30PM BISON Take a 1-mile hike to see North America s largest land mammal. Nature Center SEPT 23 SAT 1PM THE BUZZ ABOUT BEES Learn about honeybees and the pressures they face as pollinators and honey makers. Nature Center SEPT 24 SUN 1PM PRESCHOOLERS: SPIDERS Discover the lives of these 8-legged critters through story, song and craft. SEPT 29 FRI 11AM OR 1PM DECIDUOUS IS DELICIOUS Learn about the tasty treats trees and shrubs can provide as you take a 1-mile hike. Nature Center SEPT 30 SAT 11AM October FULL HARVEST MOON Take a brisk 4-mile hike through fields and forests. Ranger Station OCT 5 THU 7PM LONDON VISUAL ART GUILD: ART SHOW Enjoy an exhibit of 2- and 3D artworks by local artists. Indian Ridge Bulletin Board OCT 7 SAT 10AM 2PM DARBY CREEK DAY 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 OCT 8 SUN 1 4PM PRESCHOOLERS: THOSE FIRST FALLS Enjoy a romp in the leaves and discover the importance of trees. Ranger Station OCT 10 TUE 9:30 OR 11AM NATURE PRINT CONTEST View all the entries and cast your vote for the People s Choice Award. OCT SAT-SUN 9AM 5PM To learn more, visit metroparks.net 35

36 Battelle Darby Creek programs PHOTO GROUP: COLOR BALANCE Learn techniques to enhance your photos. Nature Center OCT 14 SAT 10AM YOGA IN THE PARK Learn movements to rejuvenate your mind and body. Ranger Station OCT 14 SAT 11:30AM NATURE CENTER ANNIVERSARY Celebrate the 5th anniversary of the opening of the nature center. Nature Center OCT 15 SUN 1PM MUSSEL MANIA Wade in the creek in search of these buried treasures. Indian Ridge Bulletin Board OCT 21 SAT 1PM FALL HIKE Enjoy the vibrant colors of the forest on a short walk. Ranger Station OCT 22 SUN 1PM GRAVEYARD HIKE Take a 4-mile off-trail hike to prehistoric Native American and pioneer burial grounds. Ranger Station OCT 29 SUN 1PM FEED THE STREAM Help us serve a meal to the creatures in the living stream. OCT 29 SUN 2PM METRO FIVE-0: Level 2 BISON Take a 1-mile hike to see North America s largest land mammal. Age 50 and older OCT 30 MON 1PM November NATIONAL BISON DAY Celebrate America s national mammal with a movie and activities. NOV 4 SAT 1 4PM PRESCHOOLERS: THOSE FIRST FALLS Enjoy a romp in the leaves and discover the importance of trees. Ranger Station OCT 26 THU 11AM OR 1PM FALL FEST PUMPKIN HIKE Enjoy a self-guided 1.5-mile hike on a jack-o-lantern-lit trail. Indian Ridge Bulletin Board OCT 28 SAT 6 8PM FULL BEAVER MOON Take a brisk 4-mile hike through fields and forests. Ranger Station NOV 4 SAT 6PM METRO FIVE-0: Level 1 CALLING ALL CANINES Try to make contact with the park s wary foxes and coyotes. Nature Center NOV 5 SUN 5PM 36 To learn more, visit metroparks.net

37 Battelle Darby Creek / Blacklick Woods programs OFF-TRAIL HIKE Explore remote areas of the park on a 6-mile hike. Bring water and a snack. Ranger Station NOV 11 SAT 10AM PHOTO GROUP: IMAGE REVIEW Discuss photos by group members. Nature Center NOV 11 SAT 10AM YOGA IN THE PARK Learn movements to rejuvenate your mind and body. Cedar Ridge Lodge NOV 11 SAT 11:30AM NATURE CRAFTS Create easy crafts with materials found in the wild. Nature Center NOV 12 SUN 1PM OWLS OF DARBY CREEK Lure in these raptors using calls and recordings as you take a 2-mile hike. Indian Ridge Bulletin Board NOV 12 SUN 5PM PRESCHOOLERS: QUACKERS Explore the lives of ducks and discover where they go in winter. NOV 14 TUE 9:30AM OR 11AM NOV 17 FRI 11AM OR 1PM BUCKEYE FEVER Learn about our state bird, mammal, snake and tree, and make your own Ohio State Buckeye necklace. Nature Center NOV 18 SAT 10AM BISON Take a 1-mile hike to see North America s largest land mammal. Nature Center NOV 19 SUN 1PM MOVIE MATINEE: MY LIFE AS A TURKEY This funny, sad and thought-provoking PBS film explores one of those rare moments when people and animal unwittingly become more closely linked than nature normally allows. NOV 24 FRI 11AM FEED THE STREAM Help us serve a meal to the creatures in the living stream. NOV 25 SAT 2PM ANCIENT AVENUE Explore the Fort Ancient culture, hike to one of their prehistoric mounds and learn to throw an atlatl dart. Indian Ridge Bulletin Board NOV 26 SUN 1PM BLACKLICK WOODS September MORNING COFFEE & WILDLIFE WATCH View animals through the nature center windows and enjoy a cup of Java. SEPT 2 SAT 8 10AM To learn more, visit metroparks.net 37

38 Blacklick Woods programs LABOR DAY See our display about nature s hardest-working animals. SEPT 2-4 SAT-MON 8AM 8PM METRO FIVE-0: Level 2 BIRD HIKE Take a 1-mile walk to search for migrating songbirds. Age 50 and older SEPT 15 FRI 8AM FAMILY CREEKING Wade in Blacklick Creek and search for fish and crayfish. Includes a 2-mile round-trip walk. Nature Center SEPT 3 SUN 2PM FALL FUNGI Take a 1.5-mile hike to look for mushrooms and learn fun facts about them. SEPT 9 SAT 2PM HOMESCHOOLERS: CREEKING Use nets to catch critters in Blacklick Creek. Includes a 2-mile round-trip walk. Age 6-12 Nature Center SEPT 11 MON 10AM OR 1PM PRESCHOOLERS: RIDING AND WADING Take the tram to Blacklick Creek and walk in the water. Nature Center SEPT 13 WED 1PM LENS AND LEAVES CAMERA CLUB See member photos and learn photographic techniques. Non-members welcome. Beech Maple Lodge X SEPT 14 THU 7PM NATURE TRAM Take a tram ride through the park. Ash Grove Picnic Area X SEPT 16 SAT 11AM FALL MIGRATION Take a 2-mile walk to search for songbirds. SEPT 17 SUN 8AM METRO FIVE-0: Level 1 NATURE TRAM Take a tram ride through the park. Age 50 and older Ash Grove Picnic Area X SEPT 19 TUE 2PM YOU CAN EAT THAT Take a 1-mile walk and discover wild edible plants that are abundant in autumn and try some samples. SEPT 23 SAT 2PM NATURE TRAM Take a tram ride through the park. Ash Grove Picnic Area X SEPT 24 SUN 2PM WALK AND ROLL Bring your stroller or a baby backpack and enjoy a 1.5-mile walk. SEPT 26 TUE 9AM 38 To learn more, visit metroparks.net

39 Blacklick Woods programs STORY TIME Enjoy stories about animals and create a simple craft. SEPT 29 FRI 10AM FALL FOLIAGE See our display and discover the science behind the changing colors of leaves. SEPT 30 SAT 8AM 8PM October FALL FOLIAGE See our display and discover the science behind the changing colors of leaves. OCT 1 SUN 8AM 6PM BUGS AND BLOOMS Take a 2-mile walk to see wildflowers and the insects that visit them. OCT 1 SUN 2PM MORNING COFFEE & WILDLIFE WATCH View animals through the nature center windows and enjoy a cup of Java. OCT 7 SAT 8 10AM GPS SCAVENGER HUNT Learn about GPS units and test your skills to find treasure in the park. OCT 8 SUN 2 4PM HOMESCHOOLERS: TRANSFORMERS IN THE WILD Transformers live among us but they are smaller than you think. Discover which animals change their bodies into something else and why. Age 6-12 Beech Maple Lodge X OCT 9 MON 10AM OR 1PM PRESCHOOLERS: BATS Learn about these flying mammals through stories, activities and crafts. Beech Maple Lodge X OCT 11 WED 10AM OR 1PM LENS AND LEAVES CAMERA CLUB See member photos and learn photographic techniques. Non-members welcome. Beech Maple Lodge X OCT 12 THU 6PM SCIENCE SUNDAY: OUR LEAST WANTED Learn about some common invasive plant and animal species and how they got here. OCT 15 SUN 2PM WALK AND ROLL Bring your stroller or a baby backpack and enjoy a 1.5-mile walk. OCT 17 TUE 9AM HIKE AND HEAT Enjoy a 1.5-mile walk and cook treats over a campfire. Ash Grove Picnic Area X OCT 20 FRI 6PM To learn more, visit metroparks.net 39

40 Blacklick Woods programs NATURE PRINT CONTEST View all the entries and cast your vote for the People s Choice Award. OCT SAT-SUN 8AM 6PM HIKE ALL THE TRAILS Walk all six miles of trail at Blacklick Woods. OCT 21 SAT 10AM STORY TIME Enjoy stories about animals and create a simple craft. OCT 24 TUE 10AM NATURALLY SPOOKY Celebrate Halloween at our display about nature s spooky animals. OCT SAT-SUN 8AM 6PM GIRL SCOUT DAY: JUNIORS HABITATS Juniors (4th & 5th grade) will participate in activities that meet some of the requirements for the Habitats badge. OCT 28 SAT 2PM TOTALLY TODDLER FUN Watch your toddler play in the leaves and enjoy some good old-fashioned fun. Age Meadows Picnic Area X OCT 29 SUN 4PM November MORNING COFFEE & WILDLIFE WATCH View animals through the nature center windows and enjoy a cup of Java. NOV 4 SAT 8 10AM BEAVER MOON LANTERN HIKE Take a 2-mile lantern-lit hike through the forest. NOV 4 SAT 6:30PM PRESCHOOLERS: PUPPETS LEARN THE ALPHABET Join the Beech Tree Puppets as they explore the 26 letters of the alphabet. Beech Maple Lodge X NOV 8 WED 10AM OR 1PM LENS AND LEAVES CAMERA CLUB See member photos and learn photographic techniques. Non-members welcome. Beech Maple Lodge X NOV 9 THU 6PM WALK AND ROLL Bring your stroller or a baby backpack and enjoy a 1.5-mile walk. NOV 10 FRI 9AM FALL EXPERIMENTS Try some simple science experiments. NOV 11 SAT 2PM 40 To learn more, visit metroparks.net

41 Blacklick Woods / Blendon Woods programs HOMESCHOOLERS: NATURE NINJAS Learn from the masters and discover how animals use their ninja skills to escape from predators and catch prey. Age 6-12 Beech Maple Lodge X NOV 13 MON 10AM OR 1PM PHOTO SCAVENGER HUNT Grab your smartphone or digital camera for a fun scavenger hunt and possibly win a prize. NOV 24 FRI 1 4PM METRO FIVE-0: Level 1 NATURE PAINTING Paint a fall landscape scene. Materials provided. Age 50 and older Beech Maple Lodge X NOV 16 THU 6PM WILD TURKEYS Learn about Ohio s gobblers at our display. NOV SAT-SUN 8AM 6PM FALL SEEDS Look for seeds and pods left behind after the summer. NOV 18 SAT 2PM NATURE BABIES Enjoy a few stories, learn animal signs to practice in American Sign Language and discover nature through a sensory board. Age 24 months and younger NOV 20 MON 10AM NATURE KIDS: OWL PELLETS Learn about an owl s diet by dissecting its regurgitated leftovers. Advance registration X NOV 22 WED & / BARKING BREAKFAST Enjoy tasty snacks for you and your dog then take a 3-mile walk. NOV 25 SAT 9AM TREE IDENTIFICATION Learn how to identify trees on a 0.5-mile walk. Ash Grove Picnic Area X NOV 26 SUN 2PM STORY TIME Enjoy wildlife stories and create a craft. NOV 29 WED 10AM NOV 29 WED 10AM BLENDON WOODS September MONARCH WEEKEND See butterflies, caterpillars and chrysalises in the butterfly tent. Learn about plants for butterflies and try crafts and activities. Get your picture taken at our monarch life-cycle photo board. Butterfly tagging hikes at 1:30 and 3:30. Nature Center SEPT 2-3 SAT-SUN 1 5PM To learn more, visit metroparks.net 41

42 Blendon Woods programs BUSY BEES Learn about honeybees at our beehive, make a craft and taste honey. SEPT 9 SAT 1 4PM BIRD HIKE Take a 2-mile walk to find migrating birds. Nature Center SEPT 10 SUN 8AM METRO FIVE-0: Level 2 BUGS AND BLOOMS Take a 1-mile walk to see wildflowers and the insects that visit them. Age 50 and older Nature Center SEPT 11 MON 2PM ART WALK Watch members of the Westerville Art League paint nature scenes along the trail, and see an artists presentation at 11:30 on the patio. Nature Center SEPT 16 SAT 9AM NOON BUGS AND BLOOMS Take a 2-mile walk to see wildflowers and the insects that visit them. Nature Center SEPT 16 SAT 2PM SIX-LEGGED CHORUS Listen to the loud sounds of singing insects as you take a 2-mile walk. Nature Center SEPT 17 SUN 8PM PRESCHOOLERS: HELLO YELLOW Try a scavenger hunt to see how many yellow items you can find in nature. Nature Center SEPT 18 MON 9:30AM, 11AM OR 1PM HOMESCHOOLERS: FUN IN THE FIELD Search for goldenrod, grasshoppers, migrating monarchs and leaves that are starting to change color. Age 6-12 Nature Center SEPT 21 THU 10AM OR 1PM WHEN FALL BEGINS Enjoy a 2-mile sunset stroll and discover why the first day of autumn was an important astronomical event for our ancestors. Nature Center SEPT 22 FRI 7PM RELAXING YOGA Let the stress of the day melt away with an hour of relaxing yoga. Bring a towel or mat. All ages and levels welcome Follow signs for location SEPT 25 MON 6:30PM PHOTO PROWL Take a 2-mile walk and search for migrating birds to photograph. Nature Center SEPT 30 SAT 9AM WALK THE CREEK Take a 2-mile walk in the creek and over rugged terrain as you search for animals. Nature Center SEPT 30 SAT 1PM 42 To learn more, visit metroparks.net

43 Blendon Woods programs October SCOUT DAY: BROWNIES WOW Brownies (2nd & 3rd grade) will participate in five activities that are part of the WOW! Wonders of Water Journey. Advance registration OCT 1 SUN & / ARCHERY Learn to shoot a compound bow. Age 10 and older Advance registration OCT 7 SAT & / BIRD HIKE Search for seed-eating birds on a 2-mile walk. Nature Center OCT 8 SUN 8AM AROUND THE LAKE HIKE Walk two miles off-trail around Thoreau Lake and look for plants and animals. Nature Center OCT 14 SAT 10AM TRAM TOURS Discover beautiful areas of the park not normally open to the public. OCT SAT-SUN 1 4PM RELAXING YOGA Let the stress of the day melt away with an hour of relaxing yoga. Bring a towel or mat. All ages and levels welcome. Follow signs for location OCT 16 MON 6:30PM HOMESCHOOLERS: TRAM TOUR Explore the Walden Waterfowl Refuge to look for animals and hear stories about the park. Age 6-12 Advance registration X OCT 19 THU & / PRESCHOOLERS: RIDE THE TRAM See beautiful fall colors, look for animals and make a craft. OCT 20 FRI 10AM 12:30PM METRO FIVE-0: Level 1 TRAM TOUR Enjoy fall colors as you tour the park. Age 50 and older OCT 20 FRI 2PM SUNSET TRAM RIDE Watch the sun go down as you tour the park. Advance registration X OCT 20 FRI & FALL COLORS TRAM TOUR Discover the beautiful hues of nature on a ride to areas not normally open to the public. OCT 21 SAT 1 4PM FALL FUN DAY TRAM RIDES Enjoy a tram ride, see the beautiful changing colors of nature, play in a giant leaf pile, roast a marshmallow and make a craft. Follow signs for location X OCT 22 SUN 1 5PM NATIVE AMERICAN SOUP Sample a tasty soup with various vegetables and meat. OCT 29 SUN 1 3PM To learn more, visit metroparks.net 43

44 Blendon Woods / Chestnut Ridge programs November FULL BEAVER MOON WALK Take a two mile off-trail walk around Thoreau Lake to watch the full moon rise and maybe get a glimpse of a beaver. Nature Center NOV 4 SAT 6:30PM BIRD HIKE Search for birds on a 2-mile walk. Nature Center NOV 5 SUN 8AM FAIRY AND TROLL HOUSE Use materials found in the forest to build houses for fairies or trolls. Nature Center NOV 5 SUN 2 4PM METRO FIVE-0: Level 3 DISCOVERY WALK Search for plants and animals preparing for winter as you take a 2-mile walk. Age 50 and older Nature Center NOV 11 SAT 2PM WATERFOWL Hike a third of a mile to Thoreau Lake to see these water-loving birds. NOV 12 SUN 1PM EVENING ANIMALS Look for wildlife that comes out at sunset as you take a 2-mile walk. Nature Center NOV 12 SUN 5PM TURKEY TAKE OFF Enjoy a 2-mile off-trail hike and learn the history of these gobblers in North America and how their population in Ohio has exploded in recent years. Nature Center NOV 19 SUN 2PM HOMESCHOOLERS: ALL ABOUT TURKEYS Take a short walk to look for these wild gobblers. Age 6-12 Nature Center NOV 20 MON 10AM OR 1PM TURKEY DISPLAY Discover the fascinating history and life of the bird that became a symbol of Thanksgiving Day. NOV 23 THU 1 4PM PRESCHOOLERS: READY FOR WINTER Enjoy a puppet show, discover what animals are doing to get ready for the cold season and make a craft. NOV 27 MON 9:30AM, 11AM OR 1PM CHESTNUT RIDGE November METRO FIVE-0: Level 3 MAGNIFICENT MAMMALS Examine furs and skulls up close then take a 1.5-mike hike and search for animals. Springhouse Program Area NOV 17 FRI 1PM 44 To learn more, visit metroparks.net

45 Clear Creek / Glacier Ridge programs CLEAR CREEK September LIVE STREAMING Wade in Clear Creek and learn about the fish and insects that live there. Park Office SEPT 9 SAT 2PM METRO FIVE-0: Level 4 BACKCOUNTRY POND STUDY Take a rugged 4-mile hike and see what creatures live in a remote pool. Age 50 and older Park Office SEPT 20 WED 10AM 1ST HALF THE TRAILS IN A DAY HIKE See spectacular scenery as you walk half the park s trails on a 7-mike hike. Barnebey-Hambleton Picnic Area SEPT 30 SAT 9:30AM October METRO FIVE-0: Level 3 METRO PARK TOUR Enjoy a 4-hour natural and cultural history tour of Clear Creek. Participants have the option to depart from Sharon Woods by passenger van. Bring lunch. Age 50 and older Advance registration OCT 4 WED & HIKE TO MEMORY ROCK Enjoy a rugged 4-mile backcountry hike. Park Office OCT 8 SUN 11AM METRO FIVE-0: Level 4 HIKE TO BUZZARD S ROOST Take a rugged 4-mile backcountry hike. Age 50 and older Barnebey-Hambleton Picnic Area OCT 20 FRI 1PM 2ND HALF THE TRAILS IN A DAY HIKE Enjoy fall colors as you walk the second half of the park s trails on a 7-mile hike. Creekside Meadows Parking Lot OCT 28 SAT 9:30AM November ALL THE TRAILS IN A DAY If you re up for the challenge, join us to walk all the park s trails, about 14 miles. Barnebey-Hambleton Picnic Area NOV 18 SAT 9:30AM BACKCOUNTRY HIKE TO WINNOWING ROCK Join us for a rugged 4-mile hike. Park Office NOV 24 FRI 10AM GLACIER RIDGE September CAMPFIRE & S MORES Enjoy these tasty treats cooked in the flames and bring your own food to roast. Red Oak Trailhead SEPT 3 SUN 7PM To learn more, visit metroparks.net 45

46 Glacier Ridge programs WALK AND WOOF Enjoy a 2.5-mile hike with your dog. Picnic Shelter bulletin board SEPT 5 TUE 7PM MOVIE IN THE PARK: TARZAN Watch Disney s Tarzan (1999) on a big outdoor screen. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Rated G. Energy Center (at the Windmill) X SEPT 9 SAT 8:30PM FAMILY BIKE SAFETY CHECK & RIDE Learn how to adjust your bike s brakes with a ranger, followed by an 8-mile ride. Picnic Shelter bulletin board SEPT 17 SUN 2PM WELCOME TO FALL FESTIVAL Celebrate the season with hayrides, live animals, crafts and activities. Picnic Shelter bulletin board SEPT 24 SUN 1 4PM October CUB SCOUTS: INTO THE WOODS Scouts will rotate through stations to help meet the requirements for the Webelos Into the Woods. Advance registration X OCT 1 SUN & PRESCHOOLERS: FAIRY WALK & CAMPFIRE Wear your favorite fairy costume and try to find these magical creatures hidden in the forest. Enjoy s mores on us. Picnic Shelter bulletin board OCT 11 WED 10AM CREEPY-CRAWLY NIGHT HIKE Discover nature s scary night crawlers as you take a 1-mile hike. Bring flashlights. Age 5 and older Picnic Shelter bulletin board OCT 14 SAT 7PM FALL STARGAZING See planets and constellations using telescopes and binoculars. Energy Center (at the Windmill) X OCT 14 SAT 7PM WALK AND WOOF Enjoy a 2.5-mile hike with your dog. Picnic Shelter bulletin board OCT 24 TUE 6:30PM November WALK AND WOOF Enjoy a 2.5-mile hike with your dog. Picnic Shelter bulletin board NOV 1 WED 6PM NOCTURNAL CRITTERS Visit with animals from Ohio Wildlife Center and learn about our amazing nighttime wildlife. Maintenance Shop X NOV 11 SAT 1PM 46 To learn more, visit metroparks.net

47 Highbanks programs HIGHBANKS September MOVIES IN THE PARK ROGUE ONE: A STAR WARS STORY Enjoy a free screening of the newest Star Wars movie on our big outdoor screen. Movie begins at dark. Meet costumed characters and learn about the science behind the movie. Bring your own seating. Big Meadows Picnic Area SEPT 2 SAT 8PM TRAM TIME Enjoy a ride through the park. Tram runs continuously. Big Meadows Picnic Area X SEPT 3 SUN 2 4PM HOWL AT THE MOON Enjoy a 3.5-mile hike with your dog. Nature Center SEPT 6 WED 8PM METRO FIVE-0: Level 1 MORNING RIDE Tour the park on our tram. Age 50 and older SEPT 8 FRI 10AM TRAM TIME Enjoy a ride through the park. Tram runs continuously. Big Meadows Picnic Area X SEPT 9-10 SAT-SUN 2 4PM HOMESCHOOLERS: SNAKES Meet some of these slithering reptiles. Age 6-12 SEPT 12 TUE 10AM PRESCHOOLERS: SNAKES Meet some of these slithering reptiles and learn more about them through fun activities. Advance registration X SEPT 13 WED & / SEPT 14 THU & / HIKE TO THE GIANTS Walk four miles off-trail to the 300-year-old giant sycamores along the Olentangy River. Advance registration SEPT 17 SUN & CAMPFIRE MEMORIES Enjoy stories around the fire and a night hike. Dragonfly Day Camp SEPT 22 FRI 7:30PM PLOWS, PIGS AND PEOPLE Learn about the early settlers ( ) to the area where the park now stands. SEPT 24 SUN 3PM October SEE THE HIGH BANKS Take a short hike and get a great view of the dramatic feature that gives the park its name. River Bluff Area, 8400 Olentangy River Road OCT 1 SUN 2PM To learn more, visit metroparks.net 47

48 Highbanks programs HOWL AT THE MOON Enjoy a 3.5-mile hike with your dog. Nature Center OCT 5 THU 7PM PRESCHOOLERS: WHAT S TO EAT? Enjoy some fun activities and learn what animals eat and how they find their food. Advance registration X OCT 11 WED & / OCT 12 THU & / GIANT LEAF PILE Jump in the leaves for a mountain of fun. Big Meadows Picnic Area OCT SAT-SUN 2 4PM METRO FIVE-0: Level 2 FALL EDIBLES Learn about plants you can eat and take a short walk to search for some in the park. Age 50 and older OCT 17 TUE 10AM HIKE TO THE GIANTS Walk four miles off-trail to the 300-year-old giant sycamores along the Olentangy River. Advance registration OCT 21 SAT & I LOVE THE 70s: THE 1870s Learn about the settlers who came to the area where the park now stands. OCT 22 SUN 2PM HOMESCHOOLERS: WEB IT OUT Enjoy a hike and explore food webs, producers, consumers and decomposers and learn what animals eat and how they find their food. Age 6-12 OCT 24 TUE 10AM NATURE PRINT CONTEST View all of the entries and cast your vote for the People s Choice Award. OCT SAT-SUN 11AM 5PM November HOWL AT THE MOON Enjoy a 3.5-mile hike with your dog. Nature Center NOV 4 SAT 6:30PM LANTERN STROLL Enjoy a lighted 2.5-mile hike on the Dripping Rock Trail. Nature Center NOV 5 SUN 6:30PM HOMESCHOOLERS: OH DEER Learn fascinating facts about our state mammal and try aging a deer by its teeth. Age 6-12 NOV 7 TUE 1PM 48 To learn more, visit metroparks.net

49 Highbanks / Homestead programs PRESCHOOLERS: DEAR DEER Learn about our state mammal through a craft, stories and hike. Advance registration X NOV 8 WED & / NOV 9 THU & / WEBELOS: EARTH ROCKS! Webelos (4th and 5th grade) will participate in activities that meet reqirements for the Earth Rocks! badge. Advance registration NOV 11 SAT & / MOVIE AFTERNOON: TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES Learn about turtles then watch the original Ninja Turtles movie. Bring a blanket to sit on. NOV 12 SUN 4PM METRO FIVE-0: Level 4 HIKE TO THE GIANTS Walk four miles off-trail to the 300-year-old giant sycamores along the Olentangy River. Advance registration NOV 17 FRI & BEAVERS AT DUSK Learn about Ohio s largest rodent and look for them off the Scenic River Trail. Big Meadows Picnic Area X NOV 19 SUN 5PM NOV 19 SUN 5PM HOMESTEAD September FAMILY SCAVENGER HUNT Pick up a checklist and complete the hunt for a prize. Barn SEPT 4 MON 1PM PRESCHOOLERS: ANIMAL SUPERHEROES Discover the superhero qualities of wildlife and test your own powers against them. Wear your favorite superhero costume. Age 3-6 Barn X SEPT 7 THU 10AM OR 1PM BUCKEYE HIKE Learn about Ohio s state tree and make a buckeye craft to take home. Barn SEPT 16 SAT NOON October FAMILY BIKE SAFETY CHECK & RIDE WITH A RANGER Learn how to change a bike tire, followed by a 5-mile ride. Barn OCT 12 THU 4:30PM PRESCHOOLERS: FALL LEAF HIKE Discover the magic of leaves and search for different colors and shapes. Barn OCT 17 TUE 10AM OR 1PM VIRTUAL TREASURE HUNT Bring your smartphone and enjoy an electronic search for riches. Collect a prize at the end. Age 6-12 Barn OCT 20 FRI 10AM NOON FAMILY FUN NIGHT Enjoy crafts, activities and stargazing. Lakeside Pavilion OCT 27 FRI 7PM To learn more, visit metroparks.net 49

50 Homestead / Inniswood programs KIDS: CREEPY-CRAWLIES Make some cute nature crafts to celebrate Halloween. Age 3-9 Lakeside Pavilion OCT 29 SUN 3PM November KIDS: SCAVENGER HUNT Pick up a checklist and complete it for a prize. Age 3-17 Barn NOV 7 TUE NOON KIDS: WILDLIFE GAMES Enjoy nature-based outdoor games to celebrate election day. Age 8-14 Advance registration NOV 7 TUE & FAMILY THANKSGIVING CRAFTS Make nature-inspired crafts with your family. Lakeside Pavilion NOV 19 SUN NOON INNISWOOD SUNNY SUNDAYS Meet members of the Herb Society of America, Central Ohio Unit and have your questions answered. Herb Garden X EVERY SUNDAY (through Oct 29) 1:30 3:30PM September PRESCHOOL IN THE GARDENS: FEET FEATS Discover the fantastic abilities of animal feet, including jumping, swimming and smelling. Advance registration X SEPT 6 WED & / / JUNIOR GARDEN VOLUNTEERS Help with fall garden cleanup. Age Advance registration SEPT 9 SAT & MEET THE ARTISTS View the photography artwork of Jimmy and Yvette Mitchell at a reception. Innis House X SEPT 10 SUN 2 4PM EVENING GARDEN WALK Join us for a guided stroll through the gardens. Gardens Entrance X SEPT 10 SUN 5:30PM GIRL SCOUT DAY: JUNIORS FLOWERS Girls will participate in activities that help to earn the Juniors Flowers badge. Advance registration X SEPT 16 SAT & METRO FIVE-0: Level 1 NOCTURNAL WILDLIFE Learn about nighttime critters and meet animals from Ohio Wildlife Center. Age 50 and older Greenhouse Multipurpose Center SEPT 20 WED 6PM 50 To learn more, visit metroparks.net

51 Inniswood programs BUMBLE BUSTLE CHALLENGE Enjoy walking and fitness activities and learn about the importance and physical abilities of the bumble bee. Gardens Entrance X SEPT 24 SUN 2 4PM EVENING GARDEN WALK Join us for a guided stroll through the gardens. Gardens Entrance X SEPT 24 SUN 5:30PM October PRESCHOOL IN THE GARDENS: FLOWER FAIRIES Use imagination and crafts to search the gardens for these magical creatures. Advance registration X OCT 4 WED & / / JUNIOR GARDEN VOLUNTEERS Help with fall garden cleanup. Age Advance registration OCT 7 SAT & GREATER COLUMBUS DAHLIA SOCIETY: FALL CARE Learn how to save your dahlia tubers for another year of colorful blooms. Innis House X OCT 8 SUN 2PM AUTUMN WALK Join us for a guided stroll through the gardens. Gardens Entrance X OCT 8 SUN 4:30PM INTRODUCTION TO OAKS Learn about oak trees and their family traits. Gardens Entrance X OCT 14 SAT 2PM MEET THE ARTIST Join Karen English at a reception and view her photography artwork. Innis House X OCT 15 SUN 2 4PM GARDEN SCHOOL Explore how fungi help our gardens grow and ways gardeners cultivate mushrooms for their excellent nutritional value. Age 6-10 Advance registration X OCT 20 FRI & SOCIAL PAINTING Join artist Ginny Baughman as she guides you to paint quick landscapes from your own photos or the natural world of Inniswood. Fee $30 Age 18 and older Advance registration X OCT 21 SAT & OAK ID: WHITE OAK GROUP Join us to identify some of the white oak trees. Gardens Entrance X OCT 21 SAT 2PM AUTUMN WALK Join us for a guided stroll through the gardens. Gardens Entrance X OCT 22 SUN 4:30PM OAK ID: RED OAK GROUP Learn how to identify some of the red oak trees. Gardens Entrance X OCT 28 SAT 2PM HALLOWEEN PARTY Enjoy activities and crafts to celebrate the holiday. Education Pavilion X OCT 29 SUN 2 4PM To learn more, visit metroparks.net 51

52 Inniswood / Prairie Oaks programs November PRESCHOOL IN THE GARDENS: WONDERFUL WOODPECKERS Learn about these wood-hammering, insect-eating birds through activities and a craft. Advance registration X NOV 1 WED & / / JUNIOR GARDEN VOLUNTEERS Help with fall garden cleanup. Age Advance registration X NOV 4 SAT & NATURE PRINT CONTEST View all of the entries and cast a vote for the People s Choice Award. Innis House X NOV 4-5 SAT-SUN 11AM 4PM MAKING HERB JELLY Jeannie Seabrook of the Glass Rooster Cannery will make garlic jelly to demonstrate the process. Samples available for tasting. Sponsored by The Herb Society of America, Central Ohio Unit. Innis House X NOV 8 WED 7PM MEET THE ARTIST Meet Kathy Gordon and view her fiber artwork at a reception. Innis House X NOV 12 SUN 2 4PM BOOK CLUB Discuss Around the House and in the Garden by Dominique Browning at our quarterly meeting. Innis House X NOV 18 SAT 2PM FAMILY CRAFT WORKSHOP Create holiday gifts with family and friends. Materials provided. Innis House NOV 19 SUN 2 4PM PRAIRIE OAKS September CRAZY FOR CRAWDADS Learn about these armored crustaceans and search for them in the creek. Whispering Oaks Picnic Area SEPT 2 SAT 1PM CANOE THE LAKES Take a ride around Darby Bend Lakes. Children must fit into a life jacket to ride. Darby Bend Lakes X SEPT 4 MON 1 4PM METRO FIVE-0: Level 3 INTRODUCTION TO KAYAKING Learn how to kayak on calm, flat water. No prior experience needed. Equipment provided. Age 50 and older Advance registration SEPT 6 WED & / ADAPTIVE ADVENTURES Special needs families are invited to connect with nature and each other. Join us for an afternoon of canoeing, kayaking and fishing. Meet live reptiles and amphibians, make a nature craft to take home and touch real animal furs. Boats and paddling instruction provided by HERO USA. Age 16 and younger. Contact Jen Rosa ( ) to register or rosa@metroparks.net. Advance registration X SEPT 10 SUN 10AM 52 To learn more, visit metroparks.net

53 Prairie Oaks / Rocky Fork programs LATE NIGHT FISHING Cast a line after dark. Darby Bend Lakes X SEPT 30 SAT 9PM October JUST FOR KIDS: SCREECH OWLS Learn about these small raptors and try calling them in on a 1-mile walk. Age 6 and older Beaver Lake OCT 19 THU 7:15PM AUTUMN HIKE Enjoy the changing colors of the season on a rugged 6-mile hike along the creek and through the forest and prairie. Darby Bend Lakes OCT 21 SAT 10AM ARCHERY Learn to shoot a compound bow. Age 8 and older Sycamore Plains Trail X OCT 22 SUN 2PM November SUNSET AT THE LAKE Watch for wildlife as the sun sets over the water and enjoy s mores around a campfire. Bring your own food to cook and something to sit on. Darby Bend Lakes X NOV 11 SAT 4:45PM OWL WALK Look and listen for these raptors on a short walk along Big Darby Creek. Darby Bend Lakes X NOV 18 SAT 5:30PM BEAVER HIKE Take a 1-mile walk to see an active lodge and look for these large rodents swimming in the lake. Darby Bend Lakes X NOV 19 SUN 4:30PM ROCKY FORK September SWIFT NIGHT OUT Look for chimney swifts congregating in our tower before they migrate south. Includes a half-mile walk. Millstone Picnic Area SEPT 8 FRI 7:30PM FLOWER WALK Look for wildflowers on a 2-mile hike. Millstone Picnic Area SEPT 9 SAT 10AM METRO FIVE-0: Level 2 BUGS AND BLOOMS Take a 1-mile walk to see wildflowers and the insects that visit them. Age 50 and older Millstone Picnic Area SEPT 24 SUN 2PM October METRO FIVE-0: Level 3 MOON WALK Enjoy a 1.5-mile walk under the rising moon. Age 50 and older Millstone Picnic Area X OCT 3 TUE 7PM To learn more, visit metroparks.net 53

54 Rocky Fork / Scioto Audubon programs FALL COLORS Enjoy nature s dramatic canvas on a 2-mile walk. Millstone Picnic Area OCT 7 SAT 3PM NIGHT CREATURES Find out whooooo comes out after dark as you search for owls, deer, coyotes and other animals. Millstone Picnic Area X OCT 29 SUN 6:30PM November HAWKS Search for these raptors on a 2-mile walk. Millstone Picnic Area NOV 4 SAT 2PM METRO FIVE-0: Level 3 DISCOVERY WALK Search for plants and animals preparing for winter as you take a 1.5-mile hike. Age 50 and older Millstone Picnic Area X NOV 18 SAT 2PM BIRDS FOR BEGINNERS Search for feathered friends on a slowpaced, 1.5-mile walk. Checklists and binoculars provided. Millstone Picnic Area X NOV 26 SUN 1PM SCIOTO AUDUBON PRE-K STORY TIME Bring your little ones for a nature-inspired story or two and watch them play in the Forest Room. Grange Insurance Audubon Center EVERY THURSDAY & SATURDAY 10AM (except Thanksgiving Day, Nov 23) WEEKLY BIRD HIKE Search for birds in the park. Grange Insurance Audubon Center EVERY SATURDAY 10AM September BIKE NIGHT YAY Bikes will be here to share tips about good bike maintenance and how to do some easy fixes. Grange Insurance Audubon Center SEPT 7 THU 6 7PM LATE NIGHTS AT THE CLIMBING WALL The climbing wall will stay open till midnight. We have four auto belays, but climbers must bring their own climbing harness. Late night fishing also available from the dock on the Scioto River. Climbing Wall SEPT 8 FRI 8PM MIDNIGHT 54 To learn more, visit metroparks.net

55 Scioto Audubon / Scioto Grove programs FRIENDS OF METRO PARKS PRESENTS GREENWAYS BIKE SAFETY Meet Guss the Greenways Groundhog and learn about bike safety for beginners and basic bike repair, followed by a ride on the Scioto Greenway Trail. Climbing Wall SEPT 9 SAT 10AM NOON LEARN THE ROPES Instructors will guide participants through the basics of climbing at the 35-foot wall. All equipment provided. Advance registration SEPT 20 WED & FALL FUN DAY Enjoy a hike, tasty snacks and crafts to celebrate the first day of autumn. RSVP Allison Clark by Sept 19, or aclark@ audubon.org Grange Insurance Audubon Center SEPT 22 FRI 6 8PM LATE NIGHTS AT THE CLIMBING WALL The climbing wall will stay open till midnight. We have four auto belays, but climbers must bring their own climbing harness. Late night fishing also available from the dock on the Scioto River. Climbing Wall SEPT 22 FRI 8PM MIDNIGHT October WHAT S THE BUZZ? Learn about honey bees and get an up close and personal experience with them at our hive. Grange Insurance Audubon Center OCT 12 THU 7 8PM MUSIC AND NATURE Enjoy a walk through the park inspired by Beethoven s Pastoral Symphony, followed by a performance of one of the composer s string quartets by Columbus Symphony musicians. Grange Insurance Audubon Center OCT 22 SUN 2PM LEARN THE ROPES Instructors will guide participants through the basics of climbing at the 35-foot wall. All equipment provided. Advance registration OCT 25 WED & November WILDLIFE NIGHT Meet animals from Ohio Wildlife Center and learn all about critters that might be hiding in your trash can, or watching you from the trees. Grange Insurance Audubon Center NOV 2 THU 6 7PM SCIOTO GROVE September CANOE THE SCIOTO Enjoy a 1-hour trip on the river. Canoes, equipment and return transportation provided. Paddlers 14 or older and riders 8 or older Advance registration SEPT 16 SAT & / SEPT 17 SUN & To learn more, visit metroparks.net 55

56 Scioto Grove programs HOMESCHOOLERS: POND STUDY Get an up-close look at the creatures that live in them. Hickory Picnic Area SEPT 26 TUE 1PM METRO FIVE-0: Level 3 ARCHERY Learn to shoot a compound bow. Age 50 and older Advance registration SEPT 27 WED & October ARCHERY Learn to shoot a compound bow. Age 8 and older Advance registration OCT 1 SUN & FAMILY FISHING Enjoy fishing at the pond. Bait and equipment provided. Age 5 and older Hickory Picnic Area OCT 7 SAT 11AM FLINT KNAPPING Learn the ancient art and make your own arrowhead. Arrowhead Picnic Area OCT 14 SAT 10AM BACKPACKING 101 Discover our trail for backpackers and prepare for your first adventure. Arrowhead Picnic Area OCT 14 SAT 2PM DOGGIE SOCIAL HOUR Enjoy a 2-mile hike with your dog. Hickory Picnic Area OCT 28 SAT 10AM November FULL MOON DOG HIKE Enjoy a 2-mile hike with your dog. Hickory Picnic Area NOV 3 FRI 6PM METRO FIVE-0: Level 3 FLOODPLAIN HIKE Take a 2-mile hike along the river and learn about the importance of natural flood zones. Age 50 and older Hickory Picnic Area NOV 8 WED 10AM NIGHT HIKE Explore your senses on a 1-mile hike in the dark. Hickory Picnic Area NOV 11 SAT 5:30PM HOMESCHOOLERS: PREPARING FOR WINTER Study how plants and animals prepare for the cold season. Arrowhead Picnic Area NOV 15 WED 1PM PRESCHOOLERS: SPIDERS Learn all about our 8-legged arachnid friends. Hickory Picnic Area OCT 18 WED 10AM OR 1PM 56 To learn more, visit metroparks.net

57 Sharon Woods programs SHARON WOODS September FAST-PACED ADULT FULL MOON HIKE Take a fast-paced 2.8-mile hike along gravel, paved and natural surface trails. Apple Ridge bulletin board SEPT 5 TUE 8:15PM FAMILY CAMPFIRE & SINGALONG Join local singer and guitarist Joanie Calem and roast marshmallows. Bring seating. Apple Ridge Picnic Shelter X SEPT 8 FRI 7:30PM MUD & MADNESS Negotiate several muddy obstacles on a 1.5-mile fun family adventure. Apple Ridge bulletin board SEPT 9 SAT 10AM FAMILY FUN: FISHING Drop a line in Schrock Lake and try to catch a big one. Schrock Lake West bulletin board X SEPT 10 SUN 1 3PM GO WILD: KIDS CLUB Go on an insect safari in the prairie to catch and release these six-legged critters. Age 5 12 Schrock Lake Picnic Shelter X SEPT 12 TUE 4:30PM HOMESCHOOLERS: INSECT SAFARI Become an entomologist for the day and observe, collect and classify various invertebrate creatures. Age 6-12 Advance registration X SEPT 13 WED & / SCOUT DAY: BROWNIES BUGS Brownies will work on requirements towards the Bugs badge. Advance registration X SEPT 23 SAT & / PAWPAW PROWL Take a 1.5-mile walk in the forest to search for Ohio s state native fruit. Apple Ridge bulletin board SEPT 24 SUN 2PM PRESCHOOLERS: PUPPET SHOW Join the Discovery Forest Puppets on their latest adventure. Spring Hollow Lodge X SEPT 26 TUE 9:30AM, 11AM, 1PM SEPT 27 WED 9:30AM, 11AM, 1PM MEET THE ANIMALS Visit with Ohio Wildlife Center s wildlife ambassadors. Schrock Lake Picnic Shelter X SEPT 30 SAT 12:30PM October FAST-PACED ADULT FULL MOON HIKE Take a fast-paced 2.8-mile hike along gravel, paved and natural surface trails. Apple Ridge bulletin board OCT 4 WED 7:30PM HOMESCHOOLERS: PRIMITIVE FIREMAKING Learn the importance of fire to Ohio s prehistoric people and try your hand at lighting a fire the ancient way. Age 6-18 Advance registration X OCT 12 THU & / To learn more, visit metroparks.net 57

58 Sharon Woods programs I-SPY NATURE ADVENTURE Pick up a scavenger hunt and earn a prize for completing it. Naturalist Office X OCT 20 FRI NOON 3PM LANTERN STROLL Candle lanterns will light the way on a 1-mile stroll through the woods. Schrock Lake restrooms OCT 21 SAT 7PM GO WILD! KIDS CLUB: FORT BUILDING Build your own forts in the natural play area. Age 5-12 Natural Play Area OCT 25 WED 4:30PM PRESCHOOLERS PLUS: HALLOWEEN OPEN HOUSE Wear costume and enjoy games, crafts and other activities to celebrate the holiday. Age 3-8 Spring Hollow Lodge X OCT 27 FRI 10AM 2PM FAMILY FUN: AWESOME AUTUMN Explore the wonders of the season with games, crafts and other activities. Age 3-8 Spring Hollow Lodge X OCT 28 SAT 10AM 2PM November FAST-PACED ADULT FULL MOON HIKE Take a fast-paced 2.8-mile hike along gravel, paved and natural surface trails. Apple Ridge bulletin board NOV 3 FRI 6:45PM SCOUT DAY: WEBELOS INTO THE WILD Webelos will work on requirements towards the Into the Wild badge. Advance registration NOV 4 SAT & / SHARON WOODS OPEN HOUSE Vote for your favorite critter and pick up a scavenger hunt to help you explore the park and possibly win a prize. Naturalist Office X NOV 7 TUE 10AM 2PM METRO FIVE-0: Level 3 DAY CAMP FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART Enjoy a nature hike and learn about the natural history of the area. Age 50 and older Advance registration NOV 9 THU & FAMILY NIGHT HIKE Discover the wonders of nature after dark on a 1-mile walk. Schrock Lake restrooms NOV 10 FRI 6PM GPS HIDE AND SEEK Search for hidden caches off-trail in the natural play area. GPS units available. Natural Play Area NOV 11 SAT 1PM HOMESCHOOLERS: FAMILY HIKING Join the Gleason family to learn from their adventures and how to plan your own. Optional hike afterward. Age 6 and older Advance registration X NOV 14 TUE & / To learn more, visit metroparks.net

59 Sharon Woods / Slate Run / Slate Run Farm programs GO WILD! KIDS CLUB: GEOCACHING Learn how to use a GPS unit to hide and seek off-trail geocaches. Age 5-12 Spring Hollow Lodge NOV 15 WED 4:30PM FAMILY FUN: TURKEY TIME Enjoy a gobbling good time with games and activities. Age 3-8 Spring Hollow Lodge X NOV 18 SAT 10AM NOON TURKEY TREK Search for these feathered friends on an off-trail adventure. Spring Hollow Lodge NOV 18 SAT NOON SCOUT DAY: CADETTE NIGHT OWL Scouts will participate in activities geared toward earning the Girl Scouts: Cadette Night Owl badge. Advance registration X NOV 18 SAT & PRESCHOOLERS: POOPAPALOOZA Become a scatologist and learn about the clues animals leave behind. Spring Hollow Lodge X NOV 29 WED 9:30AM, 11AM, 1PM NOV 30 THU 9:30AM, 11AM, 1PM SLATE RUN October FAMILY HARVEST Enjoy a hayride and apple cider, and pick Indian corn and pumpkins to take home. Buzzard s Roost Picnic Area OCT 21 SAT 2 5PM SLATE RUN FARM September ALL IN A DAY S WORK Learn about 19th-century occupations and the history of Labor Day. Farmhouse X SEPT 3-4 SUN-MON 1 3PM MORNING CHORES Join the farmer in feeding animals and help with other barnyard chores. Age 5 and older Advance registration SEPT 9 SAT & CATSUPS AND CONDIMENTS Discover other kinds of catsup besides tomato as the farm ladies make sauces and seasonings. Farmhouse X SEPT 9 SAT 1 3PM WAYS OF THE WORKSHOP Watch woodworking and blacksmithing and learn about tools used for common farm repairs. Barn SEPT 10 SUN 1 3PM FAMILY STORYTIME: APPLES Sample varieties of heirloom apples and enjoy a story and a craft. Farmhouse X SEPT 16 SAT 10AM HERBS ON THE FARM Learn about traditional uses of herbs in cooking and medicine. Farmhouse X SEPT 16 SAT 1 3PM To learn more, visit metroparks.net 59

60 Slate Run Farm programs MORNING CHORES Join the farmer in feeding animals and help with other barnyard chores. Age 5 and older Advance registration SEPT 23 SAT & ROPES, KNOTS AND SPLICES Use the rope-making machine and jump rope to your favorite rhymes. Barn SEPT 24 SUN 1 3PM FALL HARVEST Help with seasonal activities as the farm prepares for winter. Farmhouse SEPT 30 SAT 1 3PM October MORNING CHORES Join the farmer in feeding animals and help with other barnyard chores. Age 5 and older Advance registration OCT 7 SAT & DRYING FOOD Learn about drying as a way to preserve food and see how a 19th-century food evaporator works. Farmhouse OCT 7 SAT 1 3PM FALL HARVEST Help with seasonal activities as the farm prepares for winter. Farmhouse OCT 8 SUN 1 3PM MORNING CHORES Join the farmer in feeding animals and help with other barnyard chores. Age 5 and older Advance registration OCT 14 SAT & APPLES: THEIR HISTORY AND USES Taste heirloom varieties of this fruit from the 1880s, help press cider and stir apple butter over an open fire. Farmhouse X OCT 15 SUN 1 3PM FAMILY STORYTIME: PUMPKINS Enjoy a story and activities about these huge fruits. Farmhouse X OCT 21 SAT 10AM PUMPKINS AND CORN Discover how the many varieties of pumpkins, gourds, squash and corn were used on an 1880s farm. Farmhouse X OCT SAT-SUN 1 3PM METRO FIVE-0: Level 2 WHAT DOES THE BARN SAY? Take a guided tour of our barn to discover its history and learn about the many tools and machines inside. You ll also get to meet the animals that live there. Farmhouse OCT 25 WED 1PM HOMESCHOOLERS AT THE FARM: TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS Learn about the history of agriculture and about some of the skills needed to be successful operating an 1880s farm as a family business. Farmhouse OCT 26 THU 1PM DRAFT HORSE WORKSHOP Learn to groom, harness and ground drive these fine work animals. Farmhouse OCT 28 SAT & To learn more, visit metroparks.net

61 Slate Run Farm / Three Creeks programs November FROM FLOCK TO TABLE Farm staff will answer basic questions about keeping small chicken flocks and show how to butcher chickens for the home table. Farmhouse NOV 4 SAT 10AM A STITCH IN TIME Watch or help as we mend, do handwork and use the treadle sewing machine. Farmhouse NOV 5 SUN 1 3PM MORNING CHORES Join the farmer in feeding animals and help with other barnyard chores. Age 5 and older Advance registration NOV 11 SAT & FIREWOOD WARMS YOU TWICE Try a two-man saw or a shingle splitter while learning about varieties of wood. Farmhouse NOV SAT-SUN 1 3PM PRESCHOOLERS AT THE FARM: WHERE THE THANKSGIVING MEAL COMES FROM Learn about typical Thanksgiving foods and meet one of the barnyard turkeys. Farmhouse NOV 16 THU 10AM HOMESCHOOLERS ON THE FARM: THANKSGIVING TRADITIONS Learn about the history of this holiday s traditions and the foods served at a Thanksgiving dinner. Farmhouse NOV 16 THU 1PM MORNING CHORES Join the farmer in feeding animals and help with other barnyard chores. Age 5 and older Advance registration NOV 18 SAT & TURKEYS, TRADITIONS AND THANKSGIVING Learn about some of the customs of the holiday, including uses of corn, pumpkins and other foods, and the butchering of the turkey. Farmhouse NOV 19 SUN 1 3PM INDOOR AMUSEMENTS Try some indoor games and toys and challenge your mind with 19th-century puzzles. Farmhouse X NOV FRI-SUN 1 3PM THREE CREEKS September BARKING AND BREAKFAST Enjoy tasty snacks for you and your dog then take an easy 2.5-mile walk. Confluence Trails bulletin board X SEPT 2 SAT 9AM FUR AND FEATHERS DISPLAY See and touch skins and skulls of Ohio mammals and birds. Confluence Trails bulletin board X SEPT 2 SAT 1 3PM To learn more, visit metroparks.net 61

62 Three Creeks programs CATCH A BUG Grab a net to catch some six-legged critters then learn to identify them. Confluence Trails bulletin board SEPT 3 SUN 2PM FISHING AROUND THE POND Cast a line and try to catch some fish. Poles and bait provided. Age 15 and younger Heron Pond bulletin board SEPT 4 MON 10AM PRESCHOOLERS: BUG ADVENTURE Learn about the world of insects and spiders through stories and activities. Confluence Trails bulletin board SEPT 5 TUE 10AM HOMESCHOOLERS: EXPLORING INSECTS Catch and release six-legged critters while discovering their vital role in the world. Confluence Trails bulletin board SEPT 12 TUE 1:30PM MUD & MADNESS Crawl through mud and over obstacles on a 1.5-mile fun family adventure. Confluence Trails bulletin board SEPT 16 SAT 10AM HOMESCHOOLERS: START A LEAF COLLECTION Learn how to identify, classify and preserve tree leaves. Age 6 and older Confluence Trails bulletin board SEPT 26 TUE 10AM OR 1PM FALL HARVEST JAMBOREE AT SMITH FARMS Enjoy hayrides, farm games, crafts, a straw maze and more. Parking $5. Call for more information. Smith Farms, 3491 Watkins Road, Groveport SEPT 30 SAT NOON 5PM October LEAF COLLECTING 101 Learn how to identify, preserve and label newly-fallen leaves. Confluence Trails bulletin board OCT 1 SUN 2PM NO SCHOOL TODAY: NATURE HIKE Enjoy a fun-filled 1.5-mile hike through the forest and by the creek. Confluence Trails bulletin board OCT 13 FRI 1:30PM PRESCHOOLERS: GROWLY CRITTERS Explore the world of bears, bobcats and other predators through games and activities. Confluence Trails bulletin board OCT 17 TUE 10AM HOMESCHOOLERS: ALL ABOUT PREDATORS Learn about the lives of predatory animals great and small through activities and games. Age 5 and older Confluence Trails bulletin board OCT 17 TUE 1:30PM HALLOWEEN FAMILY FUN NIGHT Join us for not-too-scary stories and s mores at the campfire and go trunk-or-treating for candy. Kids encouraged to wear costumes. Confluence Trails bulletin board X OCT 21 SAT 5PM 62 To learn more, visit metroparks.net

63 Three Creeks programs SCOUT DAY: BEAR CUBS FUR, FEATHERS AND FERNS Bear Cub Scouts will participate in activities that meet requirements for the Fur, Feathers and Ferns badge. Advance registration OCT 22 SUN & CAMPFIRE BREAKFAST HIKE Take a 2-mile nature hike then enjoy treats prepared over a fire. Confluence Trails bulletin board OCT 28 SAT 9AM NATURAL PLAY AREA: CAMPFIRE BUILDING FOR KIDS Learn how to safely build a fire then toast hot dogs and marshmallows. Age 6 and older Confluence Trails bulletin board OCT 28 SAT 1:30PM MAKE A HIKING STICK Get ready for your hiking adventures by making your own walking stick. Confluence Trails bulletin board X OCT 29 SUN 2PM November LAST OF THE LEAVES: TREE ID HIKE Learn to identify trees from their leaves, bark and seeds on an easy 1-mile walk. Confluence Trails bulletin board NOV 5 SUN 2PM FOR ADULTS: OFF-TRAIL HIKE Explore rarely seen parts of the park on a 2.5-mile hike. Confluence Trails bulletin board NOV 12 SUN 2PM HOMESCHOOLERS: WINTER WILDLIFE SCIENCE Discover how animals and plants survive and even thrive in the cold season. Age 5 and older Heritage Nature Center, 551 Wirt Road, Groveport NOV 16 THU 10AM OR 1PM OWLS OF AUTUMN Learn about these raptors and try to lure them in with calls on a 2-mile walk. Confluence Trails bulletin board NOV 18 SAT 5:30PM COYOTES AT THE CREEKS Take a 2-mile walk to look for signs of these wild canines and discover ways to co-exist with them. Heron Pond bulletin board NOV 19 SUN 2PM PRESCHOOLERS: HIBERNATION TIME Enjoy fun activities while learning how wild animals stay warm in winter. Heritage Nature Center, 551 Wirt Road, Groveport NOV 21 TUE 10AM GRAPEVINE WREATH MAKING Make decorative wreaths for your home using items found in nature. Confluence Trails bulletin board NOV 11 SAT 10AM To learn more, visit metroparks.net 63

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