Take a walk down memory lane and learn about the remarkable 50-year history of this beloved family-friendly fall tradition. Plus, get info and details regarding this year's event!
FALL BIRD MIGRATION | PG. 12
As the leaves start to turn, birds begin to fly south. Learn why fall is the perfect season to observe these beautiful creatures and why Lorain County matters in their journey.
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The Arrowhead is a publication of the Lorain County Metro Parks and is published seasonally. A digital version is available at loraincountymetroparks.com/arrowhead.
If you are aged 65 and older or have mobility or transportation limitations and are interested in receiving a printed copy of the Arrowhead delivered to your home or residence, please call our administrative offices at (440) 458-5121.
ALERTS AND CLOSURES
Occasionally, some of our trails or facilities close due to extreme weather, maintenance, or renovations. Stay tuned to our website and social media channels to remain up-to-date on any alerts or closures.
If you are in a Metro Park and need immediate help, the quickest way to reach a ranger is to dial 9-1-1. A ranger will be notified of the emergency and be dispatched to your location as soon as possible.
For any non-emergencies, the ranger department can be reached at: (440) 670-4692 rangers@loraincountymetroparks.com
James E. Ziemnik Director/Secretary
Dear Residents,
Welcome to the newly refreshed Arrowhead! We’re proud to introduce this first edition of our new quarterly, seasonal format, which reflects a renewed commitment to sustainability, efficiency, and continued connection with you—our Lorain County community.
By shifting from a bi-monthly to a quarterly publication, we’re taking meaningful steps toward reducing paper use, lowering production costs, and minimizing waste. Additionally, we are excited to partner with Lorain County businesses to produce this piece and deliver it throughout the county. These changes support our mission of environmental stewardship while ensuring that you continue to receive the same high-quality information about upcoming park programs, events, and services.
While the format may look a little different, our goal remains the same: to keep you engaged and informed about everything happening across your Metro Parks. You can still find The Arrowhead at nearly 40 convenient locations throughout Lorain County, including visitor centers, libraries, and partner organizations. A digital version is also available on our website, and we encourage residents to sign up for our General News and Information e-newsletter for direct email delivery.
To ensure accessibility, we’re also offering free mail subscriptions to Lorain County residents aged 65 and older, or to those with mobility or transportation limitations. If this applies to you or someone you know, please call (440) 458-5121 to request a subscription.
Thank you for your continued support and for joining us in making responsible choices that benefit both our community and the environment. We look forward to sharing a new season of stories, updates, and inspiration with you—right here in The Arrowhead
Sincerely,
James E. Ziemnik Director/Secretary
ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF
Jennifer Bracken Asst. Director
2025 BOARD OF PARK COMMISSIONERS
Paul J. Hruby Asst. Director
Lorain County Metro Parks is governed by a three-member Board of Park Commissioners, who are appointed by the Lorain County Probate Court Judge and serve without pay.
95 West Hamilton Rd., Oberlin, OH 44074 (440) 774-5059
VERMILION RIVER RESERVATION
51211 North Ridge Rd., Vermilion, OH 44089 (440) 967-7310
WELLINGTON RESERVATION
535 Jones Rd., Wellington, OH 44090 (440) 647-2509
PARK DISTRICT MAP
PARK DISTRICT MISSION STATEMENT
The Lorain County Metropolitan Park District was established for the responsible use, enjoyment, and accessibility of every citizen of Lorain County.
The Park District acquires land to promote and demonstrate the wise use of our natural resources. The Park District strives to preserve and create a diversity of ecosystems while providing educational and recreational opportunities which are compatible with and promote conservation of these resources.
Amherst Beaver Creek Reservation Amherst HealthPlex Black River Reservation CaleyReservationCarlisleReservationCascadeParkCassellReservationCenturyParkCharlemontReservationColumbiaReservationDorlonReservationForestHillsGolfCourseFrenchCreekReservation Indian Hollow Reservation KopfFamilyGolf Courseat Cherry Ridge Kopf Family Reservation KiptonReservationLakeviewParkMillerNaturePreserveNorthCoastInlandTrailSandyRidgeReservationSchoepfleGardenSplashZoneVermilionRiverReservationWellingtonReservation
Hiking/Walking
Cycling
DogWalking
Playground
IndoorPlayspace
Kayaking
EquestrianTrails
Fishing
Golf
Mini-Golf
DiscGolf
Swimming†
SnowshoeingSledding &XCSkiing
Shelters
MeetingRooms
Food/Cafe
SplashPad
∆ † Kayak rentals are only available at Wellington Reservation. Physical launches are only located at Black River Reservation/French Creek Reservation and Wellington Reservation. Lake swimming at Lakeview Park is only allowed during the summer months, while lifeguards are on duty.
HONOR ROLL
DONATIONS LISTED BELOW SPAN FROM MAY-JUNE, 2025
The Honor Roll is our way of publicly thanking individuals, families, organizations, and corporations for their donations to the Lorain County Metro Parks be it through volunteer services, monetary gifts, or other. If you would like information about making a donation, please contact the Public Information Officer at (440) 458-5121.
General Donations:
Todd Kacher
Nusha Martynuk
Kenneth and Lucinda Spikowski
Friends of Metro Parks in Lorain County
Gift given in Honor/Memory of:
In honor of Iva Dane Blood by:
Iva Dane Blood’s Family
In honor of Jan Snider by:
Jan O’Dell
In memory of Roger Brownson by:
Judith Scott
Paul & Barbara Sink
In memory of Larry Cassidy by:
The King Ave/W. 14th St. friends & neighbors
In memory of Ken Goodman by: Goodman Family Fund
Kendal at Oberlin Residents Assoc.
Red Hat Society - Red Hat Mamas
The River Rocks GB LLC
In memory of Evelyn Harbeck by:
Thomas J Hoover CPA & Company
Bill & Helen Mansfield
Tom & Eva Weber
In memory of Mark Mies by:
Janice Denham
In memory of Fred Ryavec by:
Patricia & Jen Ryavec
In memory of Sharon Skolnicki by:
Julie & Rick Freeman
Adele B. Lynn
In memory of Jeane Taylor by:
Marianne Bontempo
COVER STORY
AHistory
ofHaunts
Celebrating 50 Years of Halloween Fun at Lorain County Metro Parks
In 2025, Lorain County Metro Parks (LCMP) proudly marks five decades of Halloween magic—50 years (and counting) of chills, thrills, and cherished memories that have brought generations of families together. What started in the mid 1970s as a modest “Halloween Walk” has grown into today’s Halloween Fair. This event is a signature celebration that attracts nearly 19,000 guests each year and remains one of northern Ohio’s most anticipated seasonal events. Early versions of the program, staged at the former Outdoor Education Center, were designed Scouts earning a badge that explored the myths, legends, and natural history behind Halloween. After a few years of scouts, a public night was soon added in 1978, and attendance ballooned. As crowds swelled, more LCMP staff were officially assigned to the growing event. Former Naturalist Supervisor and longtime Halloween coordinator Gary Gerrone recalls that the first Halloween Walks were already well established when he started with the park district in 1980. In 1982, the event moved to the newly established Carlisle Visitor Center, and in 1984 attendance rose to over 4,100. In the early years, guests were lead along wooded trails by guides in flowing robes, as a scripted narration unfolded a spooky story. Along the path, visitors encountered haunted stations brought to life by costumed scare actors. Throughout the late 1980s and 1990s, popularity soared. Ticketing systems were introduced to regulate crowds, and the Friends of the Metro Parks, local schools, scout troops, and service clubs stepped in to volunteer. Their support, then and now, is integral.
In the 2000s the event saw the introduction of some beloved features such as the vortex. Preliminary drawings and brainstorming demonstrate the ingenuity of staff who managed to create the spinning tunnel from pieces and parts back in 2004. Also, the event welcomed the fire-breathing animatronic dragon created by employees and affectionately called Komatsu-saurus.
Even during the COVID 19 pandemic, LCMP kept the tradition alive. In 2020 and 2021 the Halloween Fair pivoted to a drive through format, allowing families
to enjoy a haunted trail from the safety of their vehicles while youngsters received “boo bags” with candy. The adaptation underscored both the park district’s commitment to public safety and the community’s enduring appetite for Halloween fun. By 2022, the classic walk through format returned, drawing nearly 17,000 visitors across three weekends and signaling a full fledged comeback.
Today’s Fair: Bigger, Brighter, Spookier
The modern Halloween Fair spans three consecutive weekends and stretches along the Short Loop Trail at Carlisle Reservation. Each bend in the path reveals a new scene, meticulously planned and constructed by LCMP’s talented maintenance, naturalist, and programming teams. There will be interactive and static stations enhanced with state of the art animatronics, synchronized lighting and sound, and theatrical special effects. Behind the scenes, hundreds of staff hours are devoted to design, fabrication, and rehearsal. From welding custom props to planning safety procedures and parking details, the process begins in early spring and culminates in an experience that feels effortless, yet unforgettable.
LORAIN COUNTY METRO PARKS
HALLOWEEN TIMELINE
Volunteers: The Heart of the Haunt
While park staff handle the technical wizardry, volunteers remain the heartbeat of the Halloween Fair. In 2024 alone, nearly 100 volunteers contributed over 1,560 service hours—greeting guests, managing concessions and games, and performing as scare actors. Their enthusiasm fosters a welcoming, community oriented atmosphere.
Golden Anniversary Highlights
To commemorate the 50 year legacy and our “golden” anniversary, the 2025 edition will feature exclusive golden themed touches:
• Art Gallery Display “Halloween Fair: The Golden Haunt” - in the Carlisle Visitor Center Art Gallery, open daily 8 AM-4:30 PM throughout October. Vintage costumes, hand painted set pieces, newspaper clippings, and archival photos will trace the event’s evolution from 1970s campfire to time honored tradition.
• “Golden Ticket” Raffle - All ticketholders will be entered to win a prize pack including a Halloween Fair shirt, a gift card good towards LCMP rentals and program fees, a family 4-pack of Halloween Fair 2026 tickets, and various other LCMP promotional items. This prize pack will be valued at more than $200.
• Special Gold Foil Keepsake Sticker - Ticketholders will receive a commemorative 50th anniversary decal sticker, while supplies last!
• “50 Years of Fear” Photo Opps – Special photo settings will be available at the event with designated 50th Anniversary signage. Be sure to capture a snapshot of your family as you join us to celebrate 50 years!
Join the Celebration
Tickets for the 2025 Halloween Fair go on sale Tuesday, September 23 at 8 a.m. and historically sell out quickly. Purchase online at: LorainCountyMetroParks.com/Halloween or by phone at (440) 458-5121.
Whether you first braved the woods as a child in the 1970s, discovered the drive through edition during the pandemic, or plan to visit for the very first time, we invite you to experience the next chapter of a storied tradition. Gather your family, lace up your walking shoes, and prepare to be spellbound as Lorain County Metro Parks celebrates 50 years of scares, creativity, and community spirit. We can’t wait to welcome you to the Halloween Fair—where memories are made, legends come alive, and the magic of autumn glows brighter than ever before.
MORE ON PAGE 20!
More information on this year’s Halloween Fair including dates, times, and how to get your tickets on page 20.
FALL MIGRATION in Lorain County
Article by Kyler Sonney, Senior Naturalist
As the golden hues of autumn roll across the woodlands and the crisp breeze carries the scent of falling leaves, something magical happens in the skies above Lorain County, Ohio. Birds—hundreds of thousands of them—begin an epic journey southward. From warblers weighing less than a quarter ounce to broad-winged hawks spiraling on thermal currents, fall migration is one of the most awe-inspiring natural events on Earth.
Lorain County, situated on the southern shore of Lake Erie, lies within the Mississippi and Atlantic Flyways. These migratory routes are akin to superhighways in the sky, guiding birds from the northern breeding grounds of Canada and the Great
Lakes region to the warmer climates of the southern U.S., the Caribbean, and South America. Every fall, the county becomes a vital stopover for birds that depend on its diverse landscapes to rest and refuel before continuing their long flights. This article explores the phenomenon of fall migration in Lorain County—from its ecological importance to the species you’re most likely to see. We’ll dive into local hotspots, examine the threats birds face, and offer ways you can get involved in protecting and celebrating this incredible spectacle. Whether you’re an experienced birder or a curious park-goer, this article aims to deepen your appreciation for the natural wonder unfolding just overhead.
What Is Bird Migration?
Bird migration is the seasonal movement of birds from one region to another, usually between breeding and wintering grounds. While spring migration gets much of the attention, fall migration is often more prolonged, more diverse, and in some ways, more exciting. In autumn, adult birds and their newly fledged young begin the perilous journey southward. For some, it’s a short hop downstate. For others, it’s a transcontinental flight over mountains, deserts, and oceans. Migration is driven primarily by the changing availability of food and suitable habitat, as well as the photoperiod (day length).
Most songbirds migrate at night using celestial navigation and magnetic fields. Raptors and larger birds, like cranes or geese, often migrate during the day using thermals—rising columns of warm air that allow them to soar great distances without flapping.
Why Lorain County Matters
Lorain County offers the perfect blend of stopover habitats for migrants:
• Lake Erie shoreline for waterbirds and gulls
• Mature woodlands for songbirds and owls
• Restored prairies for sparrows and raptors
• Wetlands and marshes for shorebirds and waders
Migratory Bird Flyways
In particular, the lake effect plays a massive role. As birds reach Lake Erie, many funnel along the shoreline, especially when faced with poor weather or headwinds. This leads to “fallouts,” where birds descend in large numbers to rest and forage, offering an unparalleled birdwatching experience.
Local Hotspots for Fall Migration
1. Lakeview Park & Lorain Harbor
An excellent location for warblers, gulls, waterfowl, and even the occasional rarity. The breakwall and adjacent shrubs provide excellent habitat for tired migrants. Expect loons, grebes, and ducks in mid-tolate fall.
2. Black River Reservation
A fantastic corridor for raptors and songbirds alike. The trail system winds through forest, prairie, and riparian habitats. Look for migrating hawks and mixed flocks of chickadees, kinglets, and woodpeckers.
3. Carlisle Reservation
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Home to meadows, mature woods, and wetlands, this site offers something for every type of migrant. Look for indigo buntings, eastern towhees, and northern harriers. The Equestrian Center section of the reservation, in particular, is a hidden gem for fall birding.
4. Wellington Reservation
Known for excellent wetland habitats, this is a go-to location for rails, bitterns, and migrating dabbling ducks. Watch for sora and Virginia rail skulking in the cattails.
5. Oberlin Reservoir
A magnet for waterbirds and shorebirds, including phalaropes and rare gulls. Bring a scope, and scan for red-necked grebes, canvasbacks, and common goldeneye.
Conservation Challenges
1. Habitat Loss
Development continues to chip away at important stopover sites. Wetlands, grasslands, and shoreline habitats are all under pressure. Restoration and protection efforts by Lorain Metro Parks (LCMP) and partners are vital.
2. Light Pollution
Most songbirds migrate at night. Artificial lighting from cities and industrial areas can disorient birds, leading to collisions or exhaustion. Promoting “Lights Out” initiatives during peak migration can save lives.
3. Climate Change
Warmer temperatures can disrupt migration timing and alter the availability of food. Some species now migrate earlier or later than in past decades. Others may skip stopover sites entirely, threatening their survival.
4. Pesticides and Insects
Many migrating birds depend on insect prey. Neonicotinoid pesticides and habitat simplification have led to dramatic declines in insect biomass, particularly in agricultural regions.
Community Science and Bird Research
Lorain County is part of several major migration research efforts:
Species to Watch For Songbirds:
• Black-throated Blue Warbler
• Cape May Warbler
• American Redstart
• Northern Parula
• Common Yellowthroat
• Yellow-rumped Warbler (very abundant late in season)
Waterfowl:
• Northern Pintail
• American Wigeon
• Bufflehead
• Common and Redbreasted Merganser
• Greater and Lesser Scaup
• Tundra Swan
Raptors:
• Red-tailed Hawk
• Broad-winged Hawk
• Sharp-shinned Hawk
• Cooper’s Hawk
• Northern Harrier
• Bald Eagle
• Peregrine Falcon
Others:
• Sandhill Cranes (sometimes heard flying over at night)
• Short-eared Owls (in open fields, late fall, at dawn and dusk)
• Red-headed Woodpeckers (especially in mature oak areas)
• Rusty Blackbirds (in wetlands and woodlands during Oct.)
• MOTUS Wildlife Tracking System: A network of automated radio telemetry towers tracks tagged birds in real time.
• eBird: Every bird sighting submitted by citizens helps researchers monitor migration trends. Lorain County regularly ranks among the top Ohio counties for fall observations.
• Lights Out Cleveland: Though based in the city, volunteers recover dead or injured birds and raise awareness about urban dangers to migrants.
How to Get Involved
• Join a local bird walk at the Lorain County Metro Parks.
• Keep a feeder stocked into fall—especially suet and sunflower for sparrows, woodpeckers, and late migrants.
• Submit your sightings to eBird or iNaturalist.
• Plant native shrubs and trees like dogwood, serviceberry, and oak, which provide food and shelter for migrants.
• Advocate for habitat preservation by supporting LCMP and other conservation groups.
Tips for Watching Fall Migration
• Go Early: Many birds are most active within a few hours of sunrise after night flights.
• Scan the Sky: On sunny days, look for raptors riding thermals.
• Use Aids: Bring binoculars and a field guide, or use apps like Merlin Bird ID.
• Check eBird Hotspots: See where other birders are reporting activity.
• Listen and Look: Kinglets, creepers, and warblers often give quiet chip notes as they feed. Fall migration is not just a spectacle; it’s a story of survival, endurance, and natural wonder. Every bird that passes over Lorain County has overcome incredible odds. And every field, forest, and wetland in our parks could be a critical rest stop for an exhausted traveler. By watching, learning, and protecting, we become part of that story. Whether you spot a single ruby-crowned kinglet flitting through the underbrush or marvel at a thousand snow geese winging across a copper sky, fall migration reminds us of the connections between land, sky, and life.
So, grab your binoculars, take a walk, and look up—you never know what marvel might be flying right overhead.
PHOTOS: Black-throated Green Warbler (pg. 12); Senior Naturalist, Kyler Sonney, leading a birding hike at Carlisle Reservation (opposite page); Prothonotary Warbler (above)
Migration Timeline: Month-by-Month
AUGUST: Early Movers
The first signs of migration begin in August. Shorebirds like lesser yellowlegs (pictured), least sandpipers, and semipalmated plovers start to appear in muddy fields and wetlands. These birds often breed in the Arctic and are among the earliest to head south.
SEPTEMBER: The Warbler Wave
This is peak warbler season. Species like magnolia, yellow-rumped warbler (pictured), and bay-breasted warblers flood the county’s woodlands. Vireos, tanagers, and flycatchers are also common. Raptors like broad-winged hawks form large kettles over open fields.
OCTOBER: Sparrows and Raptors
Sparrows dominate the landscape. White-throated, white-crowned (pictured), swamp, and Lincoln’s sparrows become widespread. Golden-crowned kinglets, brown creepers, and hermit thrushes join the scene. Waterfowl start arriving on inland lakes and ponds, and sharp-shinned hawks become more visible.
NOVEMBER: Waterfowl and Winter Birds
As temperatures drop, so do loons, grebes, scaup, redheads, and mergansers. Tundra swans pass through in graceful V-formations. The last of the warblers trickle out, replaced by winter residents like dark-eyed juncos (pictured) and American tree sparrows.
TO OUR
BACK ROOTS
A brief history of the Bacon House Museum
The Lorain County Metro Parks has been built partly through the donation of lands that hold historical landmarks and local milestones, marking the passage of time in Lorain County. It is from this generosity that we have many of our parks, where we enjoy daily hikes, picnics, events, and programs of all kinds. In 1957, our first metro park, the Vermilion River Reservation, originated from such a donation of 110 acres and a century home from the Bacon family.
Benjamin Bacon arrived in Brownhelm Township in 1817, looking to stake his fortune in the unsettled lands of the west. Benjamin was born in Massachusetts in 1789. He had a twin brother, Samuel, and an older brother, George. After participating in the War of 1812, Benjamin and the entire Bacon family, his brothers and parents, George and Hepzibah, decided to move to Ohio. Benjamin was married and had a daughter before the move. He and his family settled on what would become North Ridge Road as he set out to clear the land for farming. He became a Justice of the Peace and would be elected one of Lorain County’s first county commissioners in 1824.
In 1835, he invested in a saw and grist mill
that had been relocated into the river valley down the road from his home. Over time, he would acquire more land along the river, and in 1845, he would gain full ownership of the mills. That same year, he built a new home in the river valley overlooking his business. This Greek Revival-style two-story home, with four bedrooms, symbolized the wealth that his businesses provided. His younger children grew up in the valley as stagecoaches drove along the North Ridge Road route until after the Civil War when railroad lines were built to the north and south of Brownhelm Township, leaving the community to remain a rural space in the county.
Benjamin died in 1868, leaving the house to his youngest son, Frederick, a Civil War veteran who had worked alongside his father in the mills. That same year, Frederick would sell the house and mills to a German immigrant named John Heymann. In October 1876, a fire destroyed the mills, so Heymann rebuilt them with a modern steam engine that would allow him to run the mills at his discretion and not be dependent on the river’s flow to turn the waterwheel.
Article by Matt Kocsis, Senior Naturalist
Benjamin Bacon
In 1879, Frederick Bacon would re-purchase the mills and home to include in his many business interests around Ohio and the Midwest. Frederick had married Abigail Wells before enlisting in the Union Army, and after he returned, they had nine children together. Several of his children continued to live in the house after the mills were sold, but they were relocated near the turn of the 20th century following the death of their father in 1901.
Charles Bacon, the last living child of Frederick Bacon, would pass away in 1957. With there being no other known living descendants of Frederick, and in accordance with the family’s wishes, the house and land were donated to the newly formed Lorain County Metro Parks.
Initially, the house served as a ranger station and housed animals kept by the park. With the help of the Lorain County Historical Society, the house was restored with the furnishings provided by the Bacon family to represent 19th-century life in Mill Hollow. In 1962, it opened to the public for tours as a house museum. For more than 60 years,
it has hosted annual school field trips, weekend visitors, and a myriad of programs, including the Old-Fashioned Holidays program, which has been running for more than 30 years.
Inside this historic home museum, visitors will find a representation of life as it once was, before electricity and running water were introduced to the valley. The museum features an 1873 woodstove, period dishes, and cookware in the kitchen, as well as a melodeon organ in the parlor. Additionally, visitors will find a rope bed and wash basin in the bedroom, as well as the roll-top desk in the mill office. The house has withstood floods, ice flows, and the ravages of time, and today, at 180 years old, it offers us an educational and entertaining glimpse into local history.
Today, the Vermilion River Reservation preserves more than 1400 acres of land in conjunction with the history of the Bacon family and their home. The Bacon House is open for free tours each month, with guides available to share information as you explore. Check out page 23 or the park website for times and days. Schools and local non-profit groups can contact the parks to schedule a tour at no cost. This year’s Old-Fashioned Holidays is scheduled for Saturday, December 6, and Sunday, December 7. Registration is required and will be available online and in person on October 17.
PHOTOS: The park district’s first director, Henry Minert walks out of the Bacon House when it served as the park district’s Ranger Office in the 1960’s (opposite page); Senior Naturalist, Matt Kocsis, in the museum's summer kitchen giving a tour (top left); Various museum artifacts including the melodeon organ (lower left); The Bacon House Museum as it stands today (below)
KIDS & FAMILY PROGRAMS
VERMILION RIVER FEST !
Sat., Sept. 13 | 10:00 am-3:00 pm
Vermilion River Reservation, Bacon Woods
Free | No registration required
Bring the whole family to enjoy a day along the Vermilion River with food trucks, live music, kid’s games, face painting, nature activities, fly fishing demonstrations, rock climbing wall, wagon rides, campfires, and more!
LIVE ANIMAL PROGRAMS
CRITTER CARE !∆
Sun., Nov. 23 | 10:30-11:30 am
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
Free | Registration required
STORYTIME PROGRAMS
CONSERVA-STORIES SERIES !∆
Tue., Sept. 23 & Wed., Oct. 15 | 10:30-11:00 am
Miller Nature Preserve, Conservatory (Avon)
Free | Registration required
TINY TALONS STORYTIME !
Wed., Sept. 24 | 11:30 am-12:00 pm
Carlisle Reservation, Visitor Center (LaGrange)
Free | No registration required
STORYTIME AT FRENCH CREEK !∆
Fri., Sept. 26 | 10:30-11:30 am
Sat., Sept. 27 | 10:30-11:30 am
Sat., Oct. 11 | 10:30-11:30 am
Sat., Nov. 15 | 10:30-11:30 am
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
Free | Registration (child only) required
PRESCHOOL PROGRAMS
FAMILY COOKING CLASSES
KIDS APPLE PIE !∆$
Wed., Sept. 24 | 6:00-7:30 pm
Sat., Sept. 27 | 1:00-2:30 pm
Miller Nature Preserve, Orchid Room (Avon)
$15/person | Registration required
KIDS PUMPKIN PIE !∆$
Wed., Nov. 12 | 6:00-7:30 pm
Sat., Nov. 15 | 1:00-2:30 pm
Miller Nature Preserve, Orchid Room (Avon)
$15/person | Registration required
RAPTOR CENTER PROGRAMS
Carlisle Reservation, Visitor Center (LaGrange)
MIGRATION EXPLORATION !
Fri., Nov. 7 | 2:30-3:15 pm
Free | No registration required
OWL PELLET DISSECTIONS !∆
Wed., Nov. 26 | 1:30-2:30 pm & 3:00-4:00 pm
Free | Registration required
SILLY SCIENCE ! ! !∆
Free | Registration (child only) required
Learn about different aspects of nature and science through fun hands-on messy experiments. Each month features a new theme/experiment. Geared towards ages 2-5 with adult companion.
Thur., Sept. 4 | 9:30-10:30 am
Columbia Reservation, Briarwood Lodge
Tue., Sept. 9 | 9:30-10:30 am
Cascade Park (Elyria)
Sun., Sept. 14 | 9:30-10:30 am
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
Mon., Sept. 22 | 9:30-10:30 am
Kopf Family Reservation (Avon Lake)
KIDS & FAMILY PROGRAMS
PRESCHOOL PARK PALS SERIES !
Thur., Sept. 4 | 10:00-11:00 am
Mon., Nov. 3 | 1:00-2:00 pm
Carlisle Reservation, Visitor Center (LaGrange)
Free | No registration required
Listen to a story, create a craft, then hike the trails! Each session has a different theme. Geared towards ages 3-6 with adult companion.
GARDEN SPROUTS SERIES !∆
Thur., Sept. 11 | 10:30-11:15 am
Thur., Oct. 23 | 10:30-11:15 am
Thur., Nov. 20 | 10:30-11:15 am
Miller Nature Preserve (Avon)
Free | Registration (child only) required Nature-based program series with a nature- or seasonal-inspired theme to incorporate some of these educational and playful ways for kids to learn and grow! Geared toward preschoolers with adult companion.
CURIOUS CREEKERS !∆$
Thur., Sept. 18 & Fri., Sept. 19 | 10:00-11:30 am
Thur., Oct. 16 & Fri., Oct. 17 | 10:00-11:30 am
Thur., Nov. 13 & Fri., Nov. 14 | 10:00-11:30 am
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
$3/child | Registration (child only) required Engage in nature play and exploration through hikes, games, crafts, songs, and hands-on activities. Each month features a new theme. Geared towards ages 3-5 with adult companion.
FLINTBUSTERS & BEYOND! !
Sat., Sept. 13 | 10:30 am-4:00 pm
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
Free | No registration required
Firelands Archaeology presents a program of flintknapping demonstrations and presentations about the history and lore of flint. All ages welcome.
LITTLE EXPLORERS !
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Fri., Sept. 19 | 10:00-11:00 am
Fri., Oct. 24 | 10:00-11:00 am Fri., Nov. 14 | 10:00-11:00 am
Vermilion River Reservation, Mill Hollow Carriage Barn
Free | Registration (child only) required
Each month we will learn about a different nature topic geared towards little minds explore the outside world. Receive a passport and get stamps for each program. Geared toward preschoolers with adult companion.
ASTRONOMY PROGRAMS
STARLAB EXPERIENCE - stories in the stars !∆ Sat., Nov. 15 | 10:00-11:00 am & 2:00-3:00 pm
Vermilion River Reservation, Mill Hollow Free | Registration required Portable planetarium program featuring a new topic each time!
Everyone’s fall favorite, Halloween Fair, is back! This family-friendly spooktacular event includes the haunted walking trail, with the pumpkin lagoon, train rides, food booths, games, and more! Tickets are limited and available by pre-sale only and are available through our website, by calling (440) 458-5121, or can be purchased in person at the Carlisle Visitor Center, (8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., daily). The non-spooky family-friendly version of the trail will be open from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Kids of all ages can enjoy Halloween stations before the spookier attractions and costumed actors begin. The trail will turn spooky at 7:00 p.m., with plenty of spooks and startles to entertain everyone in the family. The trail will be closed from 6:30-7:00 p.m.
The Carlisle Visitor Center, Short Loop trail, and Children’s Nature Discovery trail close at 12:00 p.m. on event days.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit us online: loraincountymetroparks.com/halloween
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
Free | No registration required
EVENING FUN
PAINT AND SIP !∆$
Fri., Sept. 19 | 6:00-8:00 pm
Fri., Nov. 21 | 6:00-8:00 pm
Miller Nature Preserve, Orchid Room (Avon)
$30/person | Registration required
TABLE GAME NIGHTS !
Thur., Sept. 18 | 6:00-8:00 pm
Thur., Oct. 23 | 6:00-8:00 pm
Thur., Nov. 20 | 6:00-8:00 pm
Wellington Reservation
Free | No registration required
DECADES TRIVIA NIGHT !∆
Sat., Sept. 20 | 6:00-8:00 pm
Amherst HealthPlex
Free | Registration required
BOOK CLUB !
Thur., Sept. 4 | 7:00-8:00 pm
Thur., Oct. 2 | 7:00-8:00 pm
Thur., Nov. 6 | 7:00-8:00 pm
Wellington Reservation
Free | No registration required
HISTORY
BURRELL HOMESTEAD TOUR !
Sat., Sept. 20 | 10:00-11:00 am
French Creek Reservation, Burrell Homestead (Sheffield)
Free | No registration required
SCHOEPFLE HOUSE AND GARDEN TOURS !
Sat., Sept. 20 | 2:00-3:00 pm
Sat., Oct. 11 | 11:00 am-12:00 pm
Sat., Nov. 8 | 11:00 am-12:00 pm
Schoepfle Garden (Birmingham)
Free | No registration required
SCHOEPFLE OPEN HOUSES !
Sat., Sept. 27 | 10:00 am-12:00 pm
Sat., Oct. 25 | 10:00 am-12:00 pm
Sat., Nov. 22 | 10:00 am-12:00 pm
Schoepfle Garden (Birmingham)
Free | No registration required
ADULT-FOCUSED PROGRAMS
BACON HOUSE TOURS !
Sun., Sept. 28 | 1:00-3:00 pm
Sun., Oct. 12 | 1:00-3:00 pm
Vermilion River Reservation, Mill Hollow
Free | No registration required
STIR-UP SUNDAY AT THE BACONS !
Sun., Nov. 23 | 1:00-2:00 pm
Vermilion River Reservation, Mill Hollow
Free | No registration required Program focuses on 19th-century origins of holiday traditions. Help stir up a holiday pudding and even enjoy a sample! All ages welcome!
SCENIC TRAM RIDES
All tram rides are free | No registration required All scheduled tram rides are weather-dependent
BLACK RIVER RESERVATION TRAM RIDES !
Every Wednesday through Sept. | 10:00 am-12:00 pm
Departs from Day’s Dam (Lorain) shelter
CASCADE PARK TRAM RIDES !
Every Tuesday through Sept. | 10:00 am-12:00 pm
Departs from shelter #1
KOPF FAMILY RESERVATION TRAM RIDES !
Every other Monday (Sept. 8 & 22) | 5:30-7:00 pm
Departs from Avon Lake Public Library trailhead
SANDY RIDGE RESERVATION TRAM RIDES !
Every Saturday & Sunday through Sept. | 1:00-4:00 pm
Departs from Nature Center
SCHOEPFLE GARDEN TRAM RIDES !
Every Sunday through Sept. | 1:00-4:00 pm
Every Thursday through Sept. | 10:00 am-1:00 pm
Departs from Visitor Center
WELLINGTON RESERVATION TRAM RIDES !
Every Sunday in Sept. | 2:00-4:00 pm
Departs from Visitor Center
VOLUNTEERING
FRIENDS VOLUNTEER ORIENTATIONS !
Tue., Sept. 9 | 10:00-11:00 am & 7:00-8:00 pm
Tue., Nov. 11 | 10:00-11:00 am & 7:00-8:00 pm
Carlisle Reservation, Visitor Center (LaGrange)
Free | No registration required
GARDENING
HOME COMPOSTING !
Sat., Nov. 8 | 9:30-10:30 am
Schoepfle Garden (Birmingham)
Free | No registration required
CULTURAL ARTS
WAIT UNTIL DARK !∆$
Sept. 12-13 & Sept. 19-20 | 7:30 pm
Sept. 14 & 21 | 2:00 pm
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
$15/person | Ticket required
SNOWFLAKE COMEDY CLUB SHOWS !∆$
Thur., Sept. 18 | 7:00 pm
Thur., Oct. 16 | 7:00 pm
Thur., Nov. 20 | 7:00 pm
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
$10/person | Ticket required
GUIDED HIKES
WALK AND TALK SERIES ! ! !
Socialize with others at a laid-back pace while seeing the beautiful sights of your favorite local Metro Park.
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
Oct. 13, 27, Nov. 3, & 24 | 9:00-10:00 am
Kopf Family Reservation (Avon Lake)
CARLISLE BIRDING HIKES !
Whether an experienced birder or just beginning, these Thursday morning walks present a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature, discover new species, and learn valuable tips about bird identification, behavior, and habitats.