Did you know that Carlisle Reservation is home to nine different injured/orphaned birds on display? Discover all that goes on in the Raptor Center to take care of these wildlife program ambassadors.
WINTER WILDLIFE | PG. 12
Winter brings colder weather and shorter days. Learn how the strategies of migration, adaptation, and dormancy help local wildlife survive the challenges that come with the change of season.
8-10
18
20-21
22-26
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,
On Friday, September 19, I had the privilege of joining community members, city leaders, State Representative Gayle Manning, park board members, Probate Judge Walther, staff from Lorain General Health, and staff from Lorain County Metro Parks to celebrate the opening of a new park entrance and connector bridge at the Avon Wetlands at Miller Nature Preserve.
This project is a testament to what strong partnerships can accomplish. Working closely with the City of Avon and the State of Ohio, we’ve created a new gateway to and through nature at the Schwartz Road Trailhead, complete with an updated parking area, expanded trail access, and a beautiful new bridge spanning French Creek. This bridge not only enhances connectivity between the Avon Wetlands, but also provides a safer, more convenient link to the city’s Schwartz Road Park, the nearby soccer complex, and surrounding neighborhoods.
We acquired this 57-acre property back in 2016 with the support of the City of Avon and opened the first entrance off Riegelsberger Road in 2022. With the completion of this new access point and bridge, we’ve expanded how visitors can explore and enjoy the wetlands, whether it’s walking, jogging, bicycling, birdwatching, or simply soaking in the beauty of the outdoors.
But this project is about more than recreation. The bridge supports a trail connection that encourages Active Transportation where families can walk, bike, and exercise safely while enjoying the Avon Wetlands that serve a critical environmental function by managing stormwater, filtering runoff, and helping protect nearby homes from flooding. They also support a diverse array of wildlife, migratory waterfowl, and preserve open space that benefits our entire region.
Seeing families, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts using the trails and bridge reminds us why this work matters. It’s about connecting people to nature, to their activities—and to each other. It’s about making our parks more accessible, more inclusive, and more impactful.
I encourage you to come visit the new Schwartz Road Trailhead at Miller Nature Preserve (located at 35106 Schwartz Road in Avon) and experience this new connection for yourself. We look forward to seeing you on the trails.
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.
Hiking/Walking Cycling
DogWalking Playground
Amherst Beaver Creek Reservation Amherst HealthPlex Black River Reservation CaleyReservationCarlisleReservationCascadeParkCassellReservationCenturyParkCharlemontReservationColumbiaReservationDorlonReservationForestHillsGolfCourseFrenchCreekReservation Indian Hollow Reservation KopfFamilyGolf Courseat Cherry Ridge Kopf Family Reservation KiptonReservationLakeviewParkMillerNaturePreserveNorthCoastInlandTrailSandyRidgeReservationSchoepfleGardenSplashZoneVermilionRiverReservationWellingtonReservation
Mini-Golf
DiscGolf Swimming†
SnowshoeingSledding &XCSkiing Shelters
MeetingRooms Food/Cafe SplashPad
SUNSET TERRACE
The Sunset Terrace is perfect for your special event. The facility offers a balcony patio and a scenic backdrop only the parks can provide. Outdoor ceremony space is available!
Call (440) 865-7630 for pricing and to book a tour today!
HONOR ROLL
DONATIONS LISTED BELOW SPAN FROM JULY - SEPTEMBER 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:
Border Light Festival
Desich Sales Institute
Friends of the Metro Parks in Lorain County
Richard Fox
Gembala, McLaughlin & Pecora Co., LPA
Christine Hamlet
Jackson, Dieken, & Associates
Krista Jones
K. Hovnanian Homes
Koehler
Gary Korzan
Locust Knoll Farms
Gift given in Honor/Memory of:
In memory of Mary Ann Brown by:
The Dealers at Jameson Homestead Antique
In memory of Roger Brownson by:
The Brownson Family
Andrea Korogianos
Lorain Senior Fellowship of Lorain
In memory of Tony Case by:
Trina Case
In memory of Paxton Chambers by:
Jeff Hartl
In memory of Maryann Damico by:
Thomas Damico
In memory of Timothy & Jeannie Gargasz by:
Peter & Kim Abrahamowicz
In memory of Evelyn Harbeck by:
Kathleen O’Malley
In memory of Maria “Baki” Ivkanec by:
Marie Ivkanec
In memory of Devin Jarvis by:
Alexandria Lopez
In memory of Robert L. Fitzpatrick by:
Daniel & Gale Wenger
In memory of Susuan Muller by:
Jacqueline Dietz
In memory of Tom O’Shaughnessy by:
Janice Baum
Jean Cramer
Richard & Marlene Long
Gene & Karen Miller
Karen Mork
Lorain County Community College
Lorain Public Library System
Marty & Mary Lou Lydecker
Military Order of the Purple Heart #473
Maria & Kevin Miller
Minuteman Press - Amherst
Mary Ann Nolan
P.C. Campana Inc.
Plum Creek Garden Club
Dawn Sgro
John & Chris Walker
Marsha Zoruba
Kathleen O’Shaughnessy
Tim & Colleen O’Shaughnessy
Lyle & Elizabeth Rowe
Lee & Mary Wieber
In memory of Lynn Pinter by:
Arlys Cole
Judy Cuciak
Justine Jacimovic
Jean Kidder
Ruth Ritley
Mary Martin
Clair Stair (Ms. Eugene)
Linda Ward
In memory of Dolly Roches by:
Dolly’s Girlfriends
In memory of Roberta A Schau by: Nicole Strick
In memory of Jwail James Seo M.D. by:
Korean Central Presbyterian Church of Cleveland
Okja Lee Seo
In memory of Sharon Anne Skolnicki by: Karen Greenberg
Vicki Marasco
Guy Scardami & Family
In memory of Breanna Sprenger by: John Sprenger
In memory of David Williams by: Terry & Monica Tomaszewski
Caring is for the birds
The work of the Carlisle Raptor Center
Article by Mary Ewers, CPBT-KA, Avian Program Curator
The Carlisle Raptor Center is a facility committed to the professional care and lifelong management of non-releasable raptors and other birds of prey. The birds in our care have permanent injuries or behavioral limitations—often due to human activity—that make survival in the wild impossible. In their roles as wildlife ambassadors, they help educate the public about the importance of native birds of prey and the ecosystems they support. Through high-quality, interpretive programs, these birds help us foster respect for wildlife and inspire stewardship of the natural world.
The Carlisle Raptor Center is currently home to six raptors: Artemis the turkey vulture, Hades the turkey vulture, Moody Swoops the eastern screech-owl, Penny the American kestrel, Nebula the red-tailed hawk, and Luna the barn owl. In addition, the Center also houses Pisces (affectionately known as Pi), the fish crow and two common ravens, Castor and Pollux. As omnivores, crows and ravens are technically not true raptors. While they certainly scavenge meat where possible and even hunt small animals, they lack the specialized physical characteristics and hunting strategies of raptor species. Among our residents, Artemis holds the distinction of being with us the longest, having arrived in 2010. The rest of our avian ambassadors joined the Raptor Center more recently, beginning in 2020. Our newest additions, Hades the turkey vulture, and Castor and Pollux the comon ravens arrived in September of 2025. Each of these birds has a unique story and plays an essential role in helping us educate the public about Ohio’s native wildlife and the importance of environmental stewardship. Raptors are a specialized group of carnivorous birds that primarily hunt other vertebrate animals. While the term “birds of prey” broadly includes many avian predators, not all birds of prey are considered true raptors. What sets raptors apart are their powerful feet and sharp talons, which they use to seize and grasp live
Continued on pg. 10 >>
PHOTOS: Avian Program Curator, Mary Ewers, with Pisces the fish crow (opposite page); Castor and Pollux the common ravens (top); Nebula the red-tailed hawk (middle); Raptor Center at Carlisle Reservation (below)
prey. True raptors include hawks, eagles, falcons, osprey, and owls. More recently, vultures have also been included in the raptor category, although they differ slightly in that they feed primarily on carrion rather than actively hunting. Raptors are built for the hunt, with exceptional eyesight, strong feet, and hooked beaks designed for tearing flesh. These specialized adaptations make them highly effective predators and essential to maintaining balanced ecosystems by helping regulate populations of small mammals, fish, and other prey species.
At the Carlisle Raptor Center, caring for these highly specialized animals requires equally specialized knowledge and commitment. Our dedicated team of naturalists works tirelessly to ensure each bird receives the proper nutrition, enrichment, and veterinary care tailored to their individual needs. The work we do is made possible by the ongoing support of the community, particularly through our AdoptA-Raptor program, which directly funds food, housing, medical care, and training.
One of the many ways we uphold the highest standards of animal care is through annual wellness exams conducted by a specialized avian veterinarian. Our avian vet makes an annual house call to perform thorough health checks on every one of our ambassador birds.
RAPTOR CENTER PROGRAMS
Carlisle Reservation, Visitor Center (LaGrange)
Learn about Ohio's raptors and their roles in nature as masters of the skies in these educational programs for all ages!
OWL PELLET DISSECTION
Ever wonder what owls eat? Find out during our brief discussion, then dissect your very own owl pellet to find out!
Tue., Dec. 30 | 1:30-2:30 pm & 3:00-4:00 pm
Mon., Feb. 16 | 1:30-2:30 pm & 3:00-4:00 pm
Free | Registration required
WILD THINGS
This live animal program gives you a chance to discover the unique adaptations and survival strategies of native species while seeing them in person.
Tue., Jan. 6 & Jan. 20 | 1:30-2:15 pm
Tue., Feb. 3 & Jan. 10 | 1:30-2:15 pm
Free | No registration required
PHOTOS: Children enjoying a Raptor Center program featuring Pisces the fish crow (top); Penny the American kestrel (middle); Luna the barn owl (bottom right)
MOODY SWOOPS
ADOPT-AAPTOR LORAIN
COUNTY METRO PARKS
Interested in helping wildlife? Then consider adopting a raptor at the Lorain County Metro Parks Raptor Center! Your tax-deductible donation, designated to the raptor of your choice, contributes directly to the cost of food, veterinary care, and other needs. In return, you receive detailed information about your adopted bird and the Raptor Center, as well as corresponding level “Thank You” items. To Adopt-A-Raptor, choose one to sponsor, select your adoption level from the list below. Donations can be completed online (scan the QR code below or visit the website listed) or over the phone by calling (440) 458-5121. Donation forms are also available online or at the Carlisle Visitor Center during normal business hours (8:00 am to 4:30 pm, daily).
PLEASE NOTE: All Adopt-A-Raptor forms MUST BE postmarked or dropped off no later than December 12th to ensure delivery by December 25th!!*
ADOPT-A-RAPTOR INFORMATION
Adoptions are valid for a period of one year. The term “adoption” does not imply ownership rights to individuals participating in the Adopt-A-Raptor program. You may visit your adopted bird and the Raptor Center any time during regular open hours, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, daily. Please remember that the raptors, like all living creatures, may become sick or pass away during your adoption period. If this should happen, the term of your adoption will be transferred to the care of another bird at the facility.
ADOPTION LEVELS:
$25 DONATION
• Adoption Certificate
• Letter from your bird
• Parents’ Board Certificate
$150 DONATION
• All the perks of $50 adoption level plus:
• 8” x 10” Photo of Bird
• Spiral Notebook with pen
$50 DONATION
• All the perks of $25 adoption level plus:
• Natural History Card
• Adopt-A-Raptor Magnet
$250 DONATION
• All the perks of $50 adoption level plus:
• Window Decal
• Behind the Scenes Tour
• Personalized Photo Opportunity*
* One-on-one photo opportunity with a Luna the barn owl held by a Naturalist in an outdoor setting.
S C A N
For more information and to donate, scan the QR code or call us at (440) 458-5121
$100 DONATION
• All the perks of $50 adoption level plus:
• 8” x 10” Photo of Bird
• Spiral Notebook with pen
$500 DONATION
• All the perks of $50 adoption level plus:
• Spiral Notebook with pen
• Behind the Scenes Tour
• Personalized Photo Opportunity*
• Free Carlisle Room (at CVC) rental for four hours
• Personal Bird of Prey program with Naturalist Staff for your group at time of rental
Please consider visiting our Raptor Center Amazon wish list for items we use on a regular basis in the Raptor Center. Scan the QR code or visit the website listed below it for a link to the wish list!
Screech-Owl
Barn Owl
wildlife winter in
Migration, Adaptation, and Dormancy
Article by Bev Walborn, Outdoor Experiences Manager
As we approach the winter season, our attention turns to colder weather, shorter days, and finding ways to stay warm. But for wildlife, the approaching winter season brings changes to help them survive the new season. Utilizing strategies such as migration, adaptation, and dormancy, wildlife can successfully navigate these challenges.
PHOTOS: Eastern fox squirrel* (above); Baltimore oriole* (pg. 13; top); Least weasel (pg. 13; bottom - photo courtesy of Vermont Fish and Wildlife)
*Photo courtesy of Gary Korzan
Migration
Migration, or the movement from one habitat to another, is a strategy that many birds use to survive winter conditions. Many birds eat insects and berries, but during the winter, many birds must migrate to warmer climates to find these foods. The blackpoll warbler (Setophaga striata) is a remarkable songbird that migrates through Ohio from the boreal forests of Canada to its wintering grounds in the northern part of South America. This flight spans over 2,000 miles, traveling from the northeast United States across the Atlantic Ocean to South America. This journey can take up to 3 days of continuous flight! However, not all bird migrations are this extensive – the Baltimore oriole (Icterus galbula) makes a shorter flight to South Carolina or Florida to spend winters in the southeastern U.S.
Adaptation
PROGRAM OPPORTUNITY
BIRD TALK WALK: WINTER ADAPTATIONS
Wed., Dec. 17 | 10:00-10:45 am
Miller Nature Preserve (Avon)
Free | No registration required
Many of Ohio’s wildlife use adaptations to survive the winter. In September, whitetail deer (Odocoileus virginianus) will shed their thinner summer hair, replacing it with a darker, thicker layer that insulates and better absorbs sunlight. The darker winter coat also helps them stay camouflaged in the forest, mimicking the darker bark on the tree trunks. Another native animal that changes their winter wardrobe is the least weasel (Mustela nivalis). They molt their summer coat of light brown fur to pristine white. This change helps them to stay hidden from both predators and prey as they hunt smaller mammals, such as mice and voles.
Dormancy
PROGRAM OPPORTUNITY
WINTER WILDLIFE TRACKING
Sun., Dec 14; Sat., Jan 17; & Sun., Feb. 15 | 1:00-2:00 pm
Sandy Ridge Reservation (North Ridgeville)
Free | No registration required
Brumation, torpor, and hibernation are all states of dormancy that animals enter to survive harsh conditions, but they differ by animal type and duration.
Brumation
Reptiles and amphibians have specialized systems to help them navigate through the cold winter weather. These cold-blooded creatures fluctuate their body temperature in response to the external air temperature. These conditions necessitate creative strategies for survival. Snakes, like our native eastern garter snake (Thamnophis sirtalis), enter a brumation state, where the animal’s metabolism slows down. Garter snakes utilize hibernaculum, where they gather as a group to brumate in underground burrows below the frost line. When the sun heats nearby rocks, the snakes emerge from the hibernaculum to bask in the warmth. Amphibians employ a similar yet distinct method of surviving the cold winter. The American bullfrog
buries itself in the warm mud at the bottom of a pond, while the American toad creates a den in the soil below the frost line. The spring peeper and gray treefrog have the most unique way to survive the cold – their bodies produce extra sugars in the form of glucose that acts as an anti-freeze, keeping the animal’s organs from freezing while they hide under the insulation of leaves and logs. Hibernation
There are just three mammals in Ohio that actually hibernate: the groundhog (Marmota monax), the meadow jumping mouse (Zapus hudsonius), and the little brown bat (Myotis lucifugus). True hibernators have significantly reduced body temperatures and a slower heart rate for a longer duration of inactivity. Little brown bats utilize small rock crevices and caves to overwinter during their hibernation. Ohio's meadow jumping mouse hibernates by building a grass and leaf nest within an
LITTLE EXPLORERS: HIBERNATION
Fri., Jan. 9 | 10:00-11:00 am
Vermilion River Reservation, Mill Hollow Carriage Barn Free | Registration (child only) required
underground burrow, which they enter in late September or early October after accumulating necessary fat reserves from a diet of seeds, fruits, and insects. The groundhog doubles its body weight, then builds an underground burrow with multiple tunnels and chambers, including the sleeping area, insulated with leaves. Once they enter their burrow, the groundhog's heart rate reduces to only a few beats per minute. Warmer spring temperatures awaken the groundhog in late February or early March. The celebration of Groundhog Day on February 2 is said to predict the arrival of spring, but this holiday is more of a cultural tradition than a scientific predictor.
States of Dormancy: What are the differences?
BRUMATION:
A period of inactivity and reduced metabolism during colder temperatures and reduced food availability.
Who
Cold-blooded animals (reptiles and amphibians)
Why
To conserve energy and survive the winter
Characteristics
Body temperature matches the surroundings, and the animal is largely inactive.
HIBERNATION:
A prolonged state of deep sleep, often several months long, with significantly lowered heart rate, breathing, and body temperature.
Who
Warm-blooded mammals
Why
To conserve energy and survive winter when food is scarce
Preparation
Animals store fat reserves beforehand and may wake periodically to eat, drink, or defecate.
TORPOR:
A short, involuntary, and deep rest that can happen many times a day due to external conditions like cold weather.
Who Can be a state in various animals, including mammals
Why
An involuntary response to cold and scarcity
Characteristics
Reduced metabolism and heart rate, but not necessarily a significant drop in body temp. Hibernation is actually a prolonged period of torpor.
Torpor
Torpor is a period during which an animal’s temperature and metabolic rate are reduced, allowing it to survive some of the coldest periods of winter. Some mammals, such as the Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana), must be cautious during the coldest winter temperatures. Opossums have thick fur on their main body, but their ears and tails are exposed. These vulnerable areas may develop frostbite, so they find logs and burrows to line with leaves to stay warm and protect their exposed skin areas. Sometimes, when the temperature drops below zero for extended periods, they enter a state of torpor.
Another mammal that utilizes torpor to survive the winter months is the eastern chipmunk (Tamias striatus). Chipmunks will overwinter in their insulated underground burrows, where they will intermittently wake up every few days to eat before returning to their torpor state. Chipmunks store food in buried caches, allowing them to easily retrieve it throughout the winter.
Winter Wildlife in Lorain County
Despite all the dormancy and migration, there are still many ways to discover wildlife in winter in Lorain County Metro Parks!
1. A visit to Sandy Ridge Reservation in the winter reveals owls roosting in the trees and waterfowl in the wetlands before the ponds freeze over.
2. Lakeview Park also offers viewing opportunities of waterfowl that spend the winter on Lake Erie's waters. Large flocks fly just over the surface of the water, looking for fish to eat.
3. Columbia Reservation hosts a man-made hibernaculum that is utilized by the park's snakes each winter. If you visit on a warm, late winter day, you may be lucky enough to see some of the snakes emerging to sun on the rocks!
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4. Bird feeding stations can be enjoyed inside or outside at the French Creek Nature Center, Carlisle Visitor Center, the Carriage Barn at Vermilion River Reservation, and various other nature centers throughout the county.
While winter is undoubtedly a time of survival and challenges for Ohio's wildlife, their use of migration, adaptation, and dormancy ensures they can successfully endure the winter season and greet the spring with renewed energy. So be sure to go out this winter and enjoy the wildlife in our Lorain County Metro Parks!
PHOTOS: Little brown bats in cave (top); Opposum* (bottom)
*Photo courtesy of Gary Korzan
KIDS & FAMILY PROGRAMS
FIRE & ICE WALK !
∆$
Sat., Jan. 17 | 11:00 am-3:00 pm
Vermilion River Reservation, Mill Hollow
$5/person | Registration required
Embrace the sights and sounds of winter! Enjoy ice sculptures, firepits, sled dogs, Frozen characters, s'mores, snowshoe hikes, food trucks, and more!
LIVE ANIMAL PROGRAMS
WILD THINGS !
Tue., Jan. 6 & Jan. 20 | 1:30-2:15 pm
Tue., Feb. 3 & Jan. 10 | 1:30-2:15 pm
Carlisle Reservation, Visitor Center (LaGrange)
Free | No registration required
WILD ENCOUNTERS !
Sun., Jan. 25 & Sun., Feb 22 | 1:30-2:30 pm
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
Free | Registration (child only) required
GROUNDHOG DAY !
Mon., Feb. 2 | 10:00-10:45 am
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
Free | Registration (child only) required
ASTRONOMY PROGRAMS
STARLAB EXPERIENCES ! !∆
Free | Registration required
Portable planetarium program featuring a new topic each time! For ages 5 yrs. and up
Sun., Jan. 11 | 10:00-10:45 am & 1:00-1:45 pm
Sun., Feb. 8 | 10:00-10:45 am & 1:00-1:45 pm
Carlisle Reservation, Visitor Center (LaGrange)
Sat., Jan. 31 | 10:00-11:00 am & 2:00-3:00 pm
Sat., Feb. 21 | 10:00-11:00 am & 2:00-3:00 pm
Vermilion River Reservation, Mill Hollow Carriage Barn
PRESCHOOL PROGRAMS 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., Jan. 8 & Thur., Feb. 5 | 9:30-10:30 am
Columbia Reservation, Briarwood Lodge
Tue., Jan. 13 & Tue., Feb. 10 | 9:30-10:30 am
Cascade Park (Elyria)
Sun., Jan. 18 & Sun., Feb. 15 | 9:30-10:30 am
French Creek Nature Center (Sheffield)
Mon., Jan. 26 & Mon., Feb. 23 | 9:30-10:30 am
Kopf Family Reservation (Avon Lake)
PRESCHOOL PARK PALS SERIES !
Tue., Jan. 13 & Feb. 3 | 10:00-11:00 am
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.
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.
LITTLE
EXPLORERS !∆
Fri., Dec. 19 & Jan. 9 & Feb. 20 | 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.
Vermilion River Reservation, Mill Hollow Carriage Barn
$3/child | Registration (child only) required
Each session, explore a new historical period or event by studying the food. Then, experience the past by cooking the main ingredients of the time!
KIDS & FAMILY PROGRAMS
KIDS CRAFTING PROGRAMS
WINTER SENSORY BIN MAKING !∆
Tue., Dec. 23 | 10:00-11:00 am & 3:00-4:00 pm
Vermilion River Reservation, Mill Hollow
Free | Registration (child only) required
WILDLIFE IN WINTER !∆
Tue., Jan. 6 | 10:00-11:00 am
Wellington Reservation
Free | No registration required
WINTER WONDERLAND CRAFTS !∆$
Sat., Jan. 24 | 12:00-3:00 pm
Amherst HealthPlex
$3/child | Registration (child only) required
STORYTIME PROGRAMS
CHRISTMAS STORIES & SNACKS !∆
Tue., Dec. 9 | 10:00-11:00 am
Wellington Reservation
Free | Registration (child only) required
CONSERVA-STORIES SERIES !∆
Tue., Dec. 9 | 10:30-11:00 am
Miller Nature Preserve, Conservatory (Avon)
Free | Registration required
STORYTIME AT FRENCH CREEK !∆
Dec. 10 | 10:30-11:30 am
Jan. 10, 15, & 31 | 10:30-11:30 am
Feb. 18 | 10:30-11:30 am
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
Free | Registration (child only) required
INDOOR PLAY SPACES INDOOR PLAY SPACES
'DISCOVERING DINOSAURS' WINTER DISPLAY ! $
Feb. 1-28 | 10:00 am-5:00 pm, daily
Miller Nature Preserve, Conservatory (Avon)
Standard $2 admission | No registration required* *Some supplemental programs may require registration Explore the world of dinosaurs as we transform the conservatory into a prehistoric paradise for the entire month of February! Set among the permanent plant collection within the 5,000 square-foot greenhouse, the 'DISCOVERING DINOSAURS' winter display features a variety of artifacts, life-sized replicas, interpretive information and opportunities for handson investigation suited for dinosaur enthusiasts and amateur paleontologists of all ages!
'DISCOVERING DINOSAURS' LIVE PARTY ∆$
Fri., Feb. 20 | 6:00-7:30 pm
$5/person | Registration required Dinosaur-themed activities both indoors and out! Enjoy lighted scenes amongst our garden beds, dinosaur movie shorts and songs, and dinosaur snacks in the Orchid Room!
Hours: 8:00 - 4:30 pm, daily Slide, play loft, live animals, and more!
French Creek Nature Center
French Creek Nature Center
Hours: 10:00 am - 4:30 pm, daily
Hours: 10:00 - 4:30 pm, daily
• Tree climbing structure, toys, live animals, and more!
ADULT-FOCUSED PROGRAMS
HEARTS A GLOW !∆$
Fri., Feb. 13 | 5:30-8:00 pm
Schoepfle Garden (Birmingham)
$5/person | Registration required
Celebrate Valentine's Day with your sweetheart on this gorgeous luminary walk around the garden! Enjoy warm beverages, hot fires, and cool tunes along with some fun surprises!
EVENING FUN
BOOK CLUB !
Thur., Dec. 4 & Jan. 8 & Feb. 5 | 7:00-8:00 pm
Wellington Reservation
Free | No registration required
FRENCH CREEK THEATRE PRESENTS 'MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG' !∆$
Dec. 5-6 & Dec. 12-13 | 7:30 pm
Dec. 7 & 14 | 2:00 pm
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
$15/person | Ticket required
TABLE GAME NIGHTS !
Thur., Dec. 18 & Jan. 29 & Feb. 26 | 6:00-8:00 pm
Wellington Reservation
Free | No registration required
PAINT AND SIP !∆$
Fri., Dec. 19 | 6:00-8:00 pm
Wed., Jan. 7 | 6:00-8:00 pm
Miller Nature Preserve, Orchid Room (Avon)
$30/person | Registration required
TRIVIA NIGHTS ! !∆
Free | Registration required
Enjoy free, fun, and friendly trivia competition with friends!
Sat., Dec. 27 & Feb. 7 | 6:00-7:00 pm
Amherst HealthPlex
Thur., Jan. 22 & Feb. 26 | 6:30-8:00 pm
Miller Nature Preserve, Orchid Room (Avon)
'RIPPLES OF PLASTIC' DOCUMENTARY SCREENING !∆
Sat., Jan. 17 | 2:00-3:00 pm
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
Free | No registration required
HISTORY
SCHOEPFLE HOUSE AND GARDEN TOURS !
Sat., Dec. 6 | 11:00 am-12:00 pm
Sat., Jan. 10 & Feb. 14 | 2:00-3:00 pm
Schoepfle Garden (Birmingham)
Free | No registration required
SCHOEPFLE OPEN HOUSES !
Sat., Jan. 24 & Feb. 28 | 10:00 am-12:00 pm
Schoepfle Garden (Birmingham)
Free | No registration required BACON HOUSE TOUR !
Sun., Feb. 15 | 1:00-2:00 pm
Vermilion River Reservation, Mill Hollow
Free | No registration required LIFE OF OTTO SCHOEPFLE !∆
Wed., Feb. 25 | 9:30-11:00 am
Schoepfle Garden (Birmingham)
Free | Registration required
Celebrate Otto Schoepfle's 115th birthday with a program about his passion for plants, including a tour of his house and a garden tour. All ages welcome!
BIRDING PROGRAMS
COFFEE WITH THE BIRDS !∆$
Sat., Dec., 6, 13, 20, & 27 | 7:30-8:30 am
Sat., Jan. 17 & 31 | 7:30-8:30 am
Carlisle Reservation, Visitor Center (LaGrange)
$3/person | Registration required
Inside the warmth of the Discovery Den, watch the feeders and enjoy morning coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.
CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE BIRD KIND !
Sat., Jan. 10 & 24 | 10:00 am-12:00 pm
Sat., Feb. 7 & 28 | 10:00 am-12:00 pm
Vermilion River Reservation, Mill Hollow
Free | No registration required
Learn about winter bird feeding, and participate in attempting to feed our resident winter birds by hand! All ages welcome!
GREAT BACKYARD BIRD COUNT ! !
Free | No registration required
The Great Backyard Bird Count is an annual four-day event that engages bird watchers of all ages in counting birds to create a real time snapshot of where the birds are across the continent. Join us to participate!
Fri., Feb. 13 | 7:30-9:30 am
Carlisle Reservation, Visitor Center (LaGrange)
Sat., Feb. 14 | 7:30-9:30 am
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
FRIENDS OF THE METRO PARKS
Tue., Jan. 13 | 10:00-11:00 am & 7:00-8:00
Carlisle
Sun., Mar. 1 & Mar. 8 | 9:00 am-12:00 pm
Carlisle Reservation, Visitor Center (LaGrange)
$8 (11 yrs+); $4 (3-10 yrs); Free (Under 3 yrs)
SEASONAL PROGRAMS & EVENTS
HOLIDAY LIGHTS !
Fri., Nov. 28-Sun., Dec. 21* | 5:30-9:00 pm
*Wednesdays-Sundays (Closed Mondays & Tuesdays)
Walking Trail: Carlisle Reservation, Visitor Center
Drive-Thru: Carlisle Reservation, Equestrian Center
Free* | No registration required
*Admission is free, but visitors are asked to bring a nonperishable food donation Second Harvest Food Bank
Celebrate the holidays this year with our festive Holiday Lights displays! The mile-long drive-through portion features our classic light displays that you can enjoy from the comfort of your vehicle. Or, enjoy a festive ½-mile walk on our decorated trail on Wednesday-Saturday evenings. However, on Sundays, walkers will not be permitted along the trail to allow for Little Green Choo rides. Cookies, hot chocolate, and more will be available for purchase and additional activities such as Santa visits, balloon twisting, and a Santa gift shop will also be offered. For more information, call (440) 458-5121 or visit us online at: loraincountymetroparks.com/holiday
'NIGHT TREE' STORY TIME !∆$
Thur., Dec. 4 | 5:00-6:00 pm & 6:30-7:30 pm
Henry's Barn at the North Star Preserve (Oberlin)
$3/person | Registration required
SANTA'S WARM WINTER WISHES LUNCH !∆$
Sat., Dec. 6 | 11:30 am-1:00 pm
Miller Nature Preserve, Orchid Room (Avon)
$18/person | Registration required
SANTA NIGHTS AT LAKEVIEW !
Dec. 6-7 & 12-13 | 5:00-7:00 pm
Lakeview Park, Sunset Terrace (Lorain)
Free | No registration required Drive through Lakeview Park to see the light displays then come inside to visit Santa and celebrate the magic of the holiday season with hot chocolate, cookie decorating, and crafts.
HOLIDAY HYGGE CRAFT & COCOA !∆
Thur., Dec. 11 | 2:00-4:00 pm
Miller Nature Preserve, Orchid Room (Avon)
Free | Registration required
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA !∆$
Sat., Dec. 13 | 11:30 am-1:00 pm
Lakeview Park, Sunset Terrace (Lorain)
$18/person | Registration required
OLD FASHIONED HOLIDAY !
Sat., Dec. 6 & Sun., Dec. 7 | 3:00-6:30 pm
Vermilion River Reservation, Mill Hollow
$5/person | Registration required
Step back-in-time to the 1860’s as you tour the candlelit Benjamin Bacon House Museum where members of the Brownhelm Historical Association portray Brownhelm residents celebrating the holidays. Tours take place during specified time blocks.
ELF TOY WORKSHOP !∆$
Sun., Dec. 14 | 2:00-4:00 pm
Wellington Reservation
$15/child | Registration (child only) required
CHRISTMAS TREE STRING ART CLASS !∆$
Sat., Dec. 20 | 1:00-3:30 pm
Vermilion River Reservation, Mill Hollow
$12/person | Registration required
SANTA SCAVENGER HUNT !
Sun., Dec. 21 | 10:00 am-2:00 pm
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
Carlisle Equestrian Center 13630 Diagonal Rd., LaGrange
Walking Trail
Carlisle Visitor Center 12882 Diagonal Rd., LaGrange
This free festive celebration features a drive-through light display, a decorated walking trail, rides on the Little Green Choo, and more holiday activities! Entrance is free, however we ask for a canned food donation for Second Harvest Food Bank.
Cookie McLoda/Les Kreeger
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)
Dec. 15 & 29, Jan. 12 , Feb. 9 | 9:00-10:00 am
Jan. 26 & Feb. 23 | 11:00am - 12:00pm
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.
Carlisle Reservation, Equestrian Center (LaGrange)
CITIZEN SCIENCE SERIES ! ∆
These hikes will involve participants in collecting data for a Citizen Science Project. Some of our projects include monitoring winter tree health, signs of seasonal change, migration patterns, bird counts, mammal counts, and more!
Dec. 3 | 11:00am - 12:30 pm
Dec. 9, 16, 23 | 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Dec. 30 | 7:00 - 8:00 pm
Jan. 6, 13, 20 | 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Jan. 27 | 7:30 - 8:30 pm
Feb. 3, 10, 17 | 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Feb. 24 | 8:00 - 9:00 pm
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
WATERFOWL HIKE !
Wed., Dec. 3 | 8:30-10:30 am
Sandy Ridge Reservation (North Ridgeville)
BACON WOODS STROLL !
Wed., Dec. 3 | 10:00-10:45 am
Vermilion River Reservation, Bacon Woods
WILDLIFE TRACKS & SIGNS HIKE !∆
Thur., Dec. 4 | 10:30-11:30 am
Columbia Reservation (Columbia Station)
NATURE WALK !
Thur., Dec. 4 | 1:00-2:30 pm
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
WILDLIFE WALK !
Thur., Dec. 4 | 2:30-3:30 pm
Columbia Reservation (Columbia Station)
DECEMBER FULL MOON HIKE !
Thur., Dec. 4 | 4:30-5:30 pm
Wellington Reservation
FULL MOON HIKE ! ∆
Thur., Dec. 4 | 5:30-7:30 pm
Sandy Ridge Reservation (North Ridgeville)
EARLY PEOPLE OF THE BLACK RIVER HIKE !∆
Sat., Dec. 6 | 1:00-2:30 pm
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
OWL PROWL HIKE !∆
Sat., Dec. 6 | 5:30-7:00 pm
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
WATERFALL TREK ! ∆
Mon., Dec. 8 | 10:00-11:00 am
Cascade Park (Elyria)
WILDLIFE TRACKS & SIGNS HIKE ! ∆
Tue., Dec. 9 | 10:30-11:30 am
Cascade Park (Elyria)
WATERFALL HIKE ! ∆
Tue., Dec. 9 | 3:00-4:00 pm
Cascade Park (Elyria)
EARLIEST SUNSET STROLL !
Tue., Dec. 9 | 4:30-5:30 pm
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
WATERFOWL HIKE !
Wed., Dec. 10 | 8:30-10:30 am
Sandy Ridge Reservation (North Ridgeville)
SCHOEPFLE GARDEN TOUR !
Wed., Dec. 10 | 10:00-11:00 am
Schoepfle Garden (Birmingham)
FRENCH CREEK EXTENDED LOOP !∆
Wed., Dec. 10 | 10:00 am-1:00 pm
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
NATURE WALK !
Wed., Dec. 10 | 1:00-2:30 pm
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
END OF FALL HIKE !
Thur., Dec. 11 | 10:30-11:30 am
Columbia Reservation (Columbia Station)
TREASURE HUNT:COMPASS NAVIGATION !∆
Thur., Dec. 11 | 2:30-3:30 pm
French Creek Reservation, Pine Tree (Sheffield)
GUIDED HIKES
WILDLIFE TRACKS & SIGNS HIKE !
Sat., Dec. 13 | 10:00-11:00 am
Vermilion River Reservation, Mill Hollow
WINTER TREE ID !
Sat., Dec. 13 | 2:00-3:00 pm
Vermilion River Reservation, Mill Hollow
WINTER WILDLIFE TRACKING !
Sun., Dec. 14 | 1:00-2:00 pm
Sandy Ridge Reservation (North Ridgeville)
LEAVE NO TRACE & DAY'S DAM LITTER CLEAN UP !∆
Sun., Dec. 14 | 1:00-3:00 pm
Black River Reservation, Day’s Dam (Lorain)
END OF FALL HIKE !
Mon., Dec. 15 | 10:30-11:30 am
Kopf Family Reservation (Avon Lake)
WILDLIFE TRACKS & SIGNS HIKE ! ∆
Mon., Dec. 15 | 2:30-3:30 pm
Kopf Family Reservation (Avon Lake)
END OF FALL HIKE !
Tue., Dec. 16 | 10:30-11:30 am
Cascade Park (Elyria)
WILDLIFE APPRECIATION HIKE!∆
Tue., Dec. 16 | 1:00-3:00 pm
Columbia Reservation (Columbia Station)
WATERFALL HIKE ! ∆
Tue., Dec. 16 | 3:00-4:00 pm
Cascade Park (Elyria) Avon
BIRD TALK WALK !
Wed., Dec. 17 | 10:00 - 10:45 am
Miller Nature Preserve, Conservatory (Avon)
WINTER WATERFALL WALK !
Thur., Dec. 18 | 11:00 am -12:00 pm
Black River Reservation, Day’s Dam (Lorain)
BRIDGEWAY TRAIL WALK & TALK !
Fri., Dec., 19 | 1:00 - 2:30 pm
Black River Reservation, Bur Oak (Elyria)
AUDUBON CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT !∆
Sat., Dec. 20 | 7:30-9:30 am
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
SUNRISE COFFEE HIKE !
Sat., Dec. 20 | 8:00-9:00 am
Vermilion River Reservation, Bacon Woods
WATER CROSSING SAFETY !∆
Sat., Dec. 20 | 2:30-4:30 pm
Kipton Reservation (Oberlin)
BASICS OF COMPASS NAVIGATION !∆
Sun., Dec. 21 | 11:00 am - 3:00 pm
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
WINTER SOLSTICE PACK WALK !
Sun., Dec. 21 | 2:00- 3:00 pm
Wellington Reservation
WINTER SOLSTICE HIKE !
Sun., Dec. 21 | 2:00- 3:00 pm
Vermilion River Reservation, Bacon Woods
YULE SUNSET STROLL !
Mon., Dec. 22 | 4:30 - 5:30 pm
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
FESTIVUS WALK & TALK !
Tue., Dec. 23 | 1:00 - 2:30 pm
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
TRAIL COFFEE HIKE !∆
Sat., Dec. 27 | 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
WILDLIFE TRACKS & SIGNS HIKE ! ∆
Mon., Dec. 29 | 10:30 - 11:30 am
Kopf Family Reservation (Avon Lake)
WILDLIFE WALK !
Mon., Dec. 29 | 2:30 - 3:30 pm
Kopf Family Reservation (Avon Lake)
WINTER FUN SCAVENGER HUNT!
Tue., Dec. 30 | 1:00 - 2:00 pm
Schoepfle Garden (Birmingham)
MERRY AND BRIGHT HIKE !
Tue., Dec. 30 | 2:00 - 2:45 pm
Miller Nature Preserve, Conservatory (Avon)
NYR ALL TRAILS HIKE !
Fri., Jan., 2 | 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Wellington Reservation
NEW YEAR SUNSET & MOONRISE HIKE!
Fri., Jan., 2 | 4:00 - 5:30 pm
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
NEW YEAR HIKE!
Sat., Jan., 3 | 10:00 - 11:00 am
Vermilion River Reservation, Bacon Woods
LUMINARY HIKE !
Fri., Jan., 23 | 6:00 - 7:30 pm
Wellington Reservation
GUIDED HIKES
WINTER WONDERLAND HIKE!
Sat., Jan., 24 | 2:00 - 3:00 pm
Vermilion River Reservation, Bacon Woods
WATER CROSSING SAFETY!∆
Sat., Jan., 24 | 2:30 - 4:30 pm
Kipton Reservation (Oberlin)
WILDLIFE WALK!
Mon., Jan., 26 | 2:30- 3:30 pm
Kopf Family Reservation (Avon Lake)
FOREST EVENING HIKE!∆
Tue., Jan., 27 | 5:00 - 6:00 pm
Vermilion River Reservation, Bacon Woods
NATURE WALK!
Wed., Jan., 28 | 1:00 - 2:30 pm
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
WINTER TRIVIA TREK!
Fri., Jan., 30 | 3:30 - 4:30 pm
Miller Nature Preserve, Conservatory (Avon)
SUNSET STROLL!
Fri., Jan., 30 | 5:00 - 6:00 pm
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
NATIONAL HOT CHOCOLATE DAY NATURE WALK!∆
Sat., Jan., 31 | 2:00 - 3:00 pm
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
NATIONAL HOT CHOCOLATE DAY HIKE!∆
Sat., Jan., 31 | 5:00 - 6:30 pm
Wellington Reservation
OWL PROWL HIKE!∆
Sat., Jan., 31 | 5:30 - 7:00 pm
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
FEBRUARY FULL MOON HIKE!
Sun., Feb., 1 | 5:30 - 6:30 pm
Wellington Reservation
FULL MOON HIKE! ∆
Sun., Feb., 1 | 6:00 - 7:30 pm
Sandy Ridge Reservation (North Ridgeville)
ROAR-AND-SEEK KIDS STROLLS! ∆
Tue., Feb., 3 | 11:00 - 11:30 am & 2:00 - 2:30 pm
Miller Nature Preserve, Conservatory (Avon)
WATERFALL TREK!∆
Wed., Feb., 4 | 10:00 - 11:00 am
Cascade Park (Elyria)
VERMILION RIVER ICICLE HIKE!
Wed., Feb., 4 | 11:00 - 11:45 am
Vermilion River Reservation, Mill Hollow
NATURE WALK!
Wed., Feb., 4 | 1:00 - 2:30 pm
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
WINTER TREE ID!
Thur., Feb., 5 | 2:30 - 3:30 pm
Columbia Reservation (Columbia Station)
VERMILION RIVER ICICLE HIKE!
Sat., Feb., 7 | 2:00 - 2:45 pm
Vermilion River Reservation, Mill Hollow
NATURE IN WINTER HIKE!
Mon., Feb., 9 | 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Kopf Family Reservation (Avon Lake)
WILDLIFE WALK!
Mon., Feb., 9 | 2:30 - 3:30 pm
Kopf Family Reservation (Avon Lake)
WATERFALL HIKE!∆
Tue., Feb., 10 | 3:00 - 4:00 pm
Cascade Park (Elyria)
OWL PROWL!∆
Tue., Feb., 10 | 5:00 - 6:30 pm
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
NATURE WALK!
Wed., Feb., 11 | 1:00 - 2:30 pm
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
I HEART NATURE HIKE!
Fri., Feb., 13 | 3:00 - 3:45 pm
Miller Nature Preserve, Conservatory (Avon)
FRIDAY THE 13TH PACK WALK!
Fri., Feb., 13 | 5:30 - 6:30 pm
Wellington Reservation
HEART HUNT HIKE!
Sat., Feb., 14 | 2:00 - 3:00 pm
Vermilion River Reservation, Bacon Woods
WHOOO'S YOUR VALENTINE HIKE!∆
Sat., Feb., 14 | 2:00 - 3:30 pm
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
WINTER WILDLIFE TRACKING!
Sun., Feb., 15 | 1:00 - 2:00 pm
Sandy Ridge Reservation (North Ridgeville)
TREASURE HUNT: COMPASS NAVIGATION!∆
Sun., Feb., 15 | 2:30 - 3:30 pm
French Creek Reservation, Pine Tree(Sheffield)
WINTER TREE ID!
GUIDED HIKES
Tue., Feb., 17 | 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Cascade Park (Elyria)
WATERFALL HIKE!∆
Tue., Feb., 17 | 3:00 - 4:00 pm
Cascade Park (Elyria)
NEW MOON STARGAZING HIKE!∆
Tue., Feb., 17 | 7:00 - 9:00 pm
Wellington Reservation
SCHOEPFLE GARDEN TOUR !
Wed., Feb., 18 | 10:00 - 11:00 am
Schoepfle Garden (Birmingham)
MODERN DINOSAUR HIKE!
Wed., Feb., 18 | 10:30 - 11:30 am
Miller Nature Preserve, Conservatory (Avon)
NATURE WALK!
Wed., Feb., 18 | 1:00 - 2:30 pm
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
NATURE IN WINTER HIKE!
Thur., Feb., 19 | 10:30 - 11:30 am
Columbia Reservation (Columbia Station)
WATERFALL & ICICLE WALK!
Thur., Feb., 19 | 1:00 - 2:00 pm
Black River Reservation, Day’s Dam (Lorain)
WILDLIFE WALK!
Thur., Feb., 19 | 2:30 - 3:30 pm
Columbia Reservation (Columbia Station)
BRIDGEWAY TRAIL ICICLES WALK
Fri., Feb., 20 | 1:00- 2:30 pm
Black River Reservation, Bur Oak (Elyria)
WATER CROSSING SAFETY!∆
Sat., Feb., 21 | 2:30- 4:30 pm
Kipton Reservation (Oberlin)
WINTER TREE ID!
Mon., Feb., 23 | 2:30 - 3:30 pm
Kopf Family Reservation (Avon Lake)
NATURE WALK!
Wed., Feb., 25 | 1:00 - 2:30 pm
OWL PROWL HIKE!∆
Thur., Feb., 26 | 5:30 - 7:00 pm
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
Hikes must be completed between November 1-March 1
Hikes must be completed between November 1-March 1 submit completed participation form (Available at the front desk) and pick up your button by March 10!
submit completed participation form (Available at the front desk) and pick up your button by March 10! Hike Form
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center (Sheffield)
NATURE SENSORY HIKE!
Thur., Feb., 26 | 2:00 - 2:45 pm
Amherst Beaver Creek Reservation (Amherst)
Sat., January 17 | 11 AM-3 pm Vermilion River reservation $5 per person, 3 & under free
Watch artists carve unique ice sculptures and warm yourself at firepits along the icy cliffs of the Vermilion River. Enjoy the sights and sounds of winter, have fun roasting s'mores, visit with sled dogs and Frozen characters, and take a ride on the Little Green Choo Train. Naturalist-led scenic snowshoe hikes will also be held, weather permitting. A variety of food trucks will have warm treats and hot beverages for sale, and some may be cash only.
This is a ticketed event. Registration is required by January 17.
Snowshoeing in the Metro Parks
Rent snowshoes and explore the Lorain County Metro Parks this winter! If there is adequate snow cover (at least 4 inches on the groun d), rentals will be available at French Creek. Guided snowshoe walks will also be of fered and will be treated as popup programs. Keep an eye on the weather, and when t he weather permits, watch for these programs on our Facebook Page and our program catalog!
Questions? Contact Lexi at arohrbach@loraincountymetroparks.com .
SNOWSHOE RENTALS*
$2 per person, per hour (first-come, first-served), cash only
French Creek Nature Center | 10:00 am-4:30 pm, daily
*Rentals are only available for rent if there is ad equate snow cover of at least 4"
