PARKEXPLORER GEAUGA PARK DISTRICT ACTIVITY GUIDE - Amazon AWS
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PARKEXPLORER
GEAUGA PARK DISTRICT ACTIVITY GUIDE
SUMMER 2021 Campers at Headwater’s Park
4 One man’s cycling 7 Introducing 14 Ages 12-18: invent 18 What to
journey leads to The Geauga’s first public a meme in the park to know about your
Maple Highlands Trail mountain bike trail earn a reward! neighborhood spiders
UPCOMING EVENTS Mark your calendars!
All public programs and special events are subject to change or be cancelled.
Geauga Park District will continue to follow current state guidelines for COVID-19 safety.
Please check our website for updates before heading out.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 8 • 10 AM - 5 PM
FREE Indoor/Outdoor Juried Show with Nature-Inspired Artwork For Sale
FREE Bus Ride from Chardon Arts Festival on Chardon Square
Food Trucks, Entertainment, Demonstrations & Workshops
at Big Creek Park Live music, crafts & activities • Nature Writing Contest event & open mic 3-5 PM
Moths & Meteors Wednesday, August 11, 9 PM - Thursday, August 12, 6 AM
at Observatory Park
Overnight Event Take in the Perseid Meteor Shower plus night flying moths
REGISTRATION REQUIRED - SPACE IS LIMITED attracted to our black light & mercury vapor lamps!
Amphitheater concerts at Big Creek Outdoor movie nights at Observatory Park;
Nights Out Park (registration required); 7 - 8:30 PM
Paul Kovac’s Big Grass Band 7/17
activities begin at 8:30 PM, movies at dark
Apollo 13 (PG) 7/24
in the Parks Chardon Polka Band 8/14
The Pop Tarts 8/28
Mary Poppins (G) 8/7
West Woods Wednesdays Wednesdays, July 14, August 11 & September 8
FARM MARKET 4 - 7 PM at The West Woods' Picnic Shelters
Purchase locally grown/made items the second Wednesday
of each month July through September.
Sunday, September 12, at The West Woods
Registration 7 AM • Costume Contest 8:30 AM • Race/Walk 9 AM
Challenge yourself to this one-of-a-kind trail run through wooded
hills — cave garb encouraged. Also this year, all who complete the
course earn a 10th anniversary commemorative medal! Virtual option
& 1-Mile Fun Walk available this year. Register ahead & save at http://bit.ly/gpdcaveman. 10th ANNIVERSARY
Geauga Park District at Thursday, September 2 – Monday, September 6 • 11 AM - 7 PM
Visit our building in the Natural Resources Area to meet the
The Great Monarch Butterfly and learn what's new in Geauga Park District!
Geauga County Fair Daily live Monarch tagging at 1:30 PM as butterflies are available.
SUMMER PROGRAMS on pages 8-13
• Registration is required in advance for • Programs are generally free of charge; those with fees UGA G Geauga Gems Trekking Series Program
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Fulfills one of the naturalist-led requirements toward
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limited enrollment programs on a first are noted. Payment of fees must be made at the time of
your Trekking Series reward
come, first served basis. Registration registration with a credit/debit card.
can be completed online or at • Registration fees are refundable up to five days prior to Nature’s Not To Be Missed
Program focused on unique encounters with Nature
440-286-9516. the event, or if the Park District cancels the program.
• Programs may be cancelled in the event • If you or a member of your family has special needs, Virtual Program
of severe weather or a storm warning. please call the Park District regarding available accessibility Register and receive a login to participate from home
accommodations.
Fully Wheelchair/Stroller Accessible
Nature Scopes - Program recommended
2 PARKEXPLORER • www.geaugaparkdistrict.org for our fifth-grade Nature Scopes students
PARKEXPLORER A seasonal guide to the programs, special
events and news of Geauga Park District
Upcoming Events................................... 2
Feature: The Maple Highlands Trail......... 4
Park Spotlight: Headwaters Park............ 6
New Mountain Bike Trail........................ 7
July Programs......................................... 8
August Programs................................. 10 Howard Bates Pat Preston Bill Dieterle Mario Innocenzi
September Programs............................ 12 Dennis Ibold, Commissioner
Writing Contest & Meme Promotion.... 14
From the Executive Director................. 15 F RO M T H E B O A R D
Park Locations & Amenities.................. 16 O F PA R K C O M M I S S I O N E R S
Geocaching.......................................... 17
In Nature: Spiders................................ 18
Dear Friends, Neighbors & Park Enthusiasts:
Fun Page.............................................. 19
I am one of the newest members of the Board of Park Commissioners,
having been appointed in 2020, and I am still learning about all of the
amenities of the Geauga County parks.
I am pleased that it is summertime and the weather will allow us
Park Mission more opportunities to enjoy our Geauga County parks and the many
The mission of Geauga Park District is amenities and activities available.
to preserve, conserve and protect the
natural features of Geauga County This year Geauga Park District has awarded contracts for
and to provide outdoor recreational improvements at Swine Creek, Veterans Legacy and Spring Brook.
experiences to our residents of every age,
Summer camps are being offered through August. For details and
every ability and at all times of the year.
registration, call 440-286-9516. Camps include exploring, hiking,
fishing, stream exploration, biking, fishing, kayaking and more.
Park Hours Geauga Park District has wonderful improved trails and picnic areas
for you and your family. I encourage you to spend a few minutes
Daily 6 AM - 11 PM
learning about our parks that are not in your nearby neighborhood and
Big Creek Park’s Donald W. Meyer Center visit some that you have not yet been to. Like most of you, I have not
is open weekdays 10 AM - 4:30 PM been to every park, and I am planning to expand my park usage in the
good weather.
The West Woods Nature Center
is open daily 10 AM - 4:30 PM Like me, I encourage you to learn about our parks and utilize the parks
Observatory Park is open daily till 1 AM from and programs that are offered. It will be a wonderful experience for
Memorial Day to Labor Day and till 11 PM you, your friends and family.
from Labor Day to Memorial Day; its
Robert McCullough Science Center Sincerely,
and Oberle Observatory are open
2nd & 4th Fridays & Saturdays of each month
6 - 11 PM and every other Sunday
Dennis J. Ibold
of each month 1 - 4 PM Dennis J. Ibold
The Maple Highlands Trail
is open daily dawn till dusk
Burton Wetlands Nature Preserve
is open daily 6 AM - 9 PM
For more information on your
parks, programs or events Executive Director
Phone: 440-286-9516 John Oros
Fax: 440-286-1285
Park Board Meetings
www.geaugaparkdistrict.org Dates and times are subject to change. Find the current schedule
info@geaugaparkdistrict.org on our website under About GPD, or call 440-286-9516.
www.geaugaparkdistrict.org • PARKEXPLORER 3
FEATURING PARK FRIENDS
Treasure Discovered:
The Maple Highlands Trail
By Dave Lair
Dave Lair is a Newbury resident,
current Portage County Interim
Finance Director, retired Geauga I have enjoyed three cycling
phases in my life. As a youth,
also able to enjoy riding in the
annual Newbury Memorial Day
County Administrator, former
I pedaled all around Newbury Parade, in which half the residents
Newbury Fiscal Officer, former
on my three-speed Schwinn. As participated and the other half
private-sector manager of I.T. a middle-aged adult, I enjoyed watched, traveling about a half
and operations, widowed father miles of cycling fun with the mile in total and pelting onlookers
of three, grandfather to seven, wife I was ultimately married to with wrapped hard candy. Perhaps
Vietnam Veteran, avid biker, for almost 49 years. We rode all the highlight of our tandem time
kayaker, swimmer, and lover of around Northeast Ohio, often up was the shortest ride of all: with
wildlife. to 40 miles a day, and traveled our youngest daughter still in high
to ride around the Niagara Falls school, we accepted the offer
area on a succession of three to participate in a spring choir
tandem bicycles: a single-speed concert featuring old time tunes.
model bought at a craft-and- Our role was to wait backstage
clutter sale, a seven-speed Huffy until the final seconds of that old
we rode home from Cleveland, standard, “Bicycle Built for Two,”
and finally a nice 21-speed then emerge on our tandem from
lightweight model with which stage right, pedaling very slowly
we could climb the formidable across the stage toward stage left.
Niagara Escarpment at about 5 As for daughter embarrassment:
mph in creeper gear. We were Mission Accomplished!
4 PARKEXPLORER • www.geaugaparkdistrict.org
I am currently in my third and and the scenic beauty to be found to Swine Creek Reservation. I
final cycling phase, usually riding there, including five covered also recently joined an awesome
solo. When COVID-19 hit last bridges you cross between Chardon bike group comprised of mainly
year, my almost daily visits to the and Middlefield. Pretty soon I was “mature” riders – we call
Geauga YMCA came to an end beginning to ride in excess of 20 ourselves the CyCo Maniacs.
and I roused the long dormant miles a day on the tandem, and The standard ride is a Saturday
21-speed tandem and began to when a friend sold me a very nice morning 7+ mile round trip
ride it. I found that the routes 24-speed solo bike, I was back to from Headwaters Park to a
we used to take along local the 40+ mile per day trips that I nice coffee shop in downtown
roads to destinations like nearby used to enjoy with my wife, riding Middlefield, with some of us
Punderson seemed somewhat from the Lake County line down extending our own trips after the
risky, giving the number of group completes its route. The
distracted drivers on the road, only caution I
so I fairly quickly headed for would offer a
The Maple Highlands Trail and new rider on
discovered what a wonderful this beautiful
resource we have to enjoy in route: keep an
our own county. I have traveled eye out for the
a number of other bike trails road apples
in Northeast Ohio and western encountered
Pennsylvania, but nothing on the
matches the great condition southern
of The Maple Highlands Trail portion, where
cyclists and
Amish buggies
share the trail.
Photos provided by Dave Lair
www.geaugaparkdistrict.org • PARKEXPLORER 5
P ark - Photo by Steve
ters Hu
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Park Spotlight
Spend Some Time
at Headwaters Park
There are so many reasons to visit be accessed by the public during evergreen plantations, and the land is
Headwaters Park. It has a little bit of naturalist-led programs. home to wild turkey, fox, mink, owls,
everything: hiking, camping, fishing, hawks and a variety of songbirds.
horse trails, kayaking and canoeing At the headwaters of the Cuyahoga Headwaters Park is also a popular
(borrow or bring your own), a River, East Branch Reservoir is the stopover for migratory waterfowl
reservable boathouse, and a diversity northernmost of the four reservoirs each spring and fall: Common Loons,
of wildlife that is a sight to see. that supply water to the Akron Tundra Swans and many types of
metropolitan area. The City of ducks.
This 926-acre park is leased from Akron implements a variety of
the City of Akron in a partnership management practices to maintain Headwaters Park’s Boathouse is
that allows for conservation of a high-quality water supply. These reservable and features an indoor
natural areas as well as enjoyment of include keeping watershed lands lodge and an outdoor covered area
recreation and outdoor education. in natural states so that forests, with a fireplace overlooking the lake.
There are two entrances: 13365 Old meadows and wetlands can filter out Kayak and canoe borrowing goes on
State Road (Rt. 608) and a secondary sediment and pollutants before they throughout the summer and is free
one at 15055 Mayfield Road (Rt. reach waterways. The natural state for Geauga County residents; visit
322). Five trails here total 4.7 miles, of watershed lands also provides the Headwaters Park page of our
including more than 2 miles of the quality habitats and recreation website for details. Seeing the park
statewide Buckeye Trail along the opportunities. from the water is a whole new great
western shore. The eastern shore, experience. This park is also a favorite
These waters are surrounded by a of anglers who have reported catches
meanwhile, and all islands are
beech-maple forest, meadows and of perch, crappie, Northern Pike and
designated preserves that can only
Largemouth Bass.
Field Notes:
It’s not unusual to see a
Bald Eagle or Osprey soaring
overhead, flying by, or perched
in the trees over Headwaters
Park. Kayakers have even
reported seeing them swoop
down to catch a fish!
6 PARKEXPLORER • www.geaugaparkdistrict.org
A New Way to See Nature D
E
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A
Big Creek Park opens
4
Geauga County’s first public
mountain 5biking trail
reek
Geauga County’s first single-track mountain bike
Big C
trail is now open thanks to a partnership with the
Cleveland Area Mountain Bike Association (CAMBA),
which
1 2 and laid out the trail with the
developed
help of the Park District’s in-house
3 construction crew.
The trail itself is 2.8 miles, with
hikers sharing the space for just
ROBINSON ROAD
over a half a mile. Direction of
travel changes daily to foster even
wear of the trail; please consult
signage for guidance when you
SH
arrive. The trail map published on
A
RE
D
SH
ARE D
the park’s website will lead you
6 to the marked entrance of the
mountain bike trail and show you
the lay of the land.
“We’re really excited to work with
CAMBA, and really appreciated
all the time and expertise they
Photo by Michael Ryba
volunteered,” said Director of
Planning & Operations Matt McCue.
“They did a great job with some of their members
helping.”
CAMBA Treasurer Mike Ryba said his team surveyed
the land multiple times, identifying points that were
the most attractive and those that needed to be
Claridon Woodlands Bike Track
avoided.
“Natural surface trails are sensitive to compaction
and erosion, so we try to stay high and dry, all the
Another single while creating a trail that’s fun to ride at both slow
track mountain and faster speeds in either direction.”
bike trail can be
found at Claridon “Big Creek’s new trail would be considered a
Woodlands. ‘traditional’ trail with some modern touches,”
Although Ryba said, “meaning there is minimal disruption of
considerably the natural resources, so the rider gets to see the
shorter at .38 best Nature can offer. Difficulty-wise, it would be
mile, the linear considered on the easy side of intermediate.”
track features
The master plan for this park calls for more trail
several 2-foot-
in the future, which would lean more toward
wide boardwalk
intermediate difficulty.
crossings and
an embankment CAMBA’s mission is to create, preserve, promote,
wall on one of its turns. There is also a pump track located here protect and enhance diverse and enjoyable trail
where mountain bike riders gain momentum by “pumping,” the experiences for mountain bikers throughout
goal being to ride it repeatedly without pedaling. Northeast Ohio. Learn more at https://camba.us/wp.
www.geaugaparkdistrict.org • PARKEXPLORER 7
JULY
Register online or by calling 440-286-9516 beginning June 20 at 10 AM
All programs and special events are subject to change or be cancelled.
Please check our website for updates before heading out.
Adventure/Discovery Arts Astronomy Kids Seniors
15 Elderberries:
3 Hidden Habitats Hike 11 Ansel’s Cave Hike: Kayaking Adventure
Thursday, July 15, 9-10:30 AM &
Saturday, July 3, 9-10:30 AM & History Written in Rock 11 AM-12:30 PM
11 AM-12:30 PM, Holbrook Hollows Sunday, July 11, 1:30-3:30 PM Headwaters Park, Boathouse
Search for hidden habitats of critters along The West Woods
forested trails. Rain or shine; dress appropriately. Explore from the water! Bring sunscreen and water.
Explore Ansel’s Cave on this two-mile, medium-level A collaboration with Geauga Department on Aging
Approximately 1.5 miles over hilly terrain. hike with a rare opportunity to go into this restricted
Registration required. and University Hospitals Geauga Medical Center.
area! Rain or shine; dress for the weather. Wear Registration required; out-of-county registration
sturdy shoes. Registration required.
3 Nature Exploration opens July 1.
Kayak (Ages 10+ w/adult) 11 Dragon Hunting 16 Lake Kelso Kayak
Saturday, July 3, 10-11:30 AM & at Orchard Hills Friday, July 16, 6:30-8 PM
1-2:30 PM, Bass Lake Preserve Sunday, July 11, 2:30-4 PM Burton Wetlands Nature Preserve
A peaceful float to experience the sights and Orchard Hills Park Enjoy the wildlife and surroundings of these tranquil
sounds of summer. Experience recommended. Discover the dragonflies and damselflies inhabiting waters. Basic skills and life vests required. Rain
Bring a snack, water and sunscreen. Registration these wetlands, observe their behaviors, and try or shine, except for thunderstorms. Registration
required beginning June 19. catching some. Nets provided. Bring binoculars, required beginning July 9.
camera, sunscreen and water. Wear sturdy shoes in
5 Geauga Skywatchers case we venture off-trail. Registration required. 17 Horseback Trail Ride
Club: Picture This! Connecting the Parks
Monday, July 5, 6:30-7:30 PM 12 Early Morning UGA G
Saturday, July 17, 10 AM-2 PM
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Nature Walk
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Virtual program Holbrook Hollows
Tips for beginners on equipment needed to Monday, July 12, 8-9:30 AM & Trailer your horse for a ride from Holbrook Hollows
photograph the night sky, sunsets and other celestial 10-11:30 AM, Big Creek Park, Tupelo Pond to Cleveland Metroparks’ South Chagrin Reservation.
objects. Visit the Geauga Skywatchers YouTube See what the season has to offer on this Bring lunch and water bottle. Expect gravel trails,
channel to see Part I of this series. Designed for medium-level hike over hilly terrain. Binoculars boardwalk, stream & river crossings, a ride along a
grades 6-12 but anyone can join. Registration recommended. Registration required. road and bicycles. Helmets recommended. Bring a
required at https://geaugalibrary.libcal.com. shovel for clean up. Registration required.
7 Drop-in Nature Craft: 12 Bouldering for
Beginners (Ages 10-13)
17 Nights Out in the Parks:
Dragonfly Magnet Paul Kovac’s Big ‘Grass Band
Monday, July 12, 8-9:30 AM,
Wednesday, July 7, 1-3 PM Saturday, July 17, 7-8:30 PM
10-11:30 AM, 1-2:30 PM & 3-4:30 PM
The West Woods, Turkey Ridge Big Creek Park, Amphitheater
Claridon Woodlands, Boulder Wall
Drop in during program hours to create a dragonfly Enjoy a four-piece bluegrass ensemble. Lawn chairs
magnet with natural materials and learn fun facts Join this introductory class to learn some
beginner grips and types of rock holds. No gear recommended. Held indoors if inclement weather.
about dragonflies. Craft available while supplies last. Registration required.
Children must be accompanied by an adult. required, just a good pair of tennis shoes. Waiver
required. Registration required.
17 Nassau Astronomy
10 Buckeye Trail UGA G
13 Toddler Time: Sensing Night with CVAS
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Highlight Hike
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the Summer (Ages 1-2 w/adult) Saturday, July 17, 7-11 PM, Observatory
Saturday, July 10, 8:30-10 AM & Park, Nassau Astronomical Station
Tuesday, July 13, 9 - 10 AM & 11 AM -
10:30 AM-Noon, Orchard Hills Park Join members of the Chagrin Valley Astronomical
Noon, The West Woods, Turkey Ridge
Highlights on Orchard Hills Park as we follow the Society to take in wonders of the night sky using our
Blue Blazes of the 1,444-mile Buckeye Trail. Ability Enjoy experiencing Nature with your little one as
we see, smell and touch summertime in the park. telescope! Discover this amazing facility and all it
to hike about four miles. Held rain or shine; dress has to offer. Limited number of people permitted in
accordingly. Bring water. Registration required. Strollers and carriers welcome! All attending
must register, including adults and siblings. building; may result in a wait. Cancelled if cloudy.
Registration required.
10 Treasures Among 18 Backcountry Silver
the Trees Flea Market 13 Union Chapel Bat Count Creek Hike
Saturday, July 10, 9 AM-3 PM Tuesday, July 13, 8:30-9:30 PM Sunday, July 18, 9 AM-Noon
The West Woods Newbury Union Chapel, St Rte 44 The West Woods, Affelder House
Join Geauga Ohio Horseman’s Council for an See the “Bat Condo,” a nursery roost for Big and (drive parking near power lines)
annual favorite to peruse dozens of vendors selling Little Brown Bats. Participate in this annual survey Discover the diversity of Silver Creek. Must walk
treasures of all kinds! A portion of the proceeds by counting bats as they exit and head out to without assistance through steep terrain, slippery
benefit Geauga Park District’s Bridle Trail Fund. feed for the evening. Directions to site will be sent stream bottoms and obstacles. Wear sturdy shoes
before program. Registration required. with good traction that can get wet. Walking sticks
10 Welton’s Gorge recommended. Bring water bottle. Rain or shine;
Backcountry Ravine UGA G 14 West Woods dress for the weather. Registration required.
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Wednesdays Farm Market
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Exploration 21 Grandparents in
Saturday, July 10, 9:30 AM-Noon & Wednesday, July 14, 4-7 PM
1:30-4 PM, Welton’s Gorge The West Woods Picnic Shelters the Park: Summer Fun
Off-trail hike into a rocky woodland ravine. Slippery Purchase locally made/grown items. Snacks Wednesday, July 21, 10:30-11:30 AM
stream bottoms, steep grades and obstacles. Rain or available for purchase. Live music by Rebecca Big Creek Park, Deep Woods Shelter
shine; dress appropriately. Wear sturdy shoes with Wohlever. Get outside with the grandchildren and enjoy summer
good traction. Registration required. with crafts and activities. Bring a picnic lunch to
enjoy. Mostly outdoors; dress for the weather with
8 PARKEXPLORER • www.geaugaparkdistrict.org comfortable shoes. Registration required.
Geauga Park District will continue to follow
current state guidelines for COVID-19 safety.
Fully Accessible Nature Scopes
JULY
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22 Maple Town Tune 24 Summer Stroll 24 Nature Explorers:
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Traders Jam Session Saturday, July 24, 11 AM-12:30 PM Fishing (Ages 6-11 w/adult)
Thursday, July 22, 7-10 PM & 4-5:30 PM, The West Woods, Affelder Tuesday, July 27, 10:30 AM-Noon & 1-2:30 PM,
The West Woods, Nature Center Pass by streams, forests and maybe a waterfall, Big Creek Park, Maple Grove
Come play, sing or enjoy as audience. All looking and listening for Nature along the way.
Learn about the fish in the pond, then go fishing! Dress
levels, genres and instruments are welcome. Approximately 2 miles. Registration required.
for the weather. Adult must register and attend with child.
Registration required. Registration required by phone.
24 Movie Night: “Apollo 13”
23 Family Night in the Park (Rated PG) Saturday, July 24 27 Branch Weaving Workshop
Friday, July 23, 8-9:30 PM 8:30-11:30 PM, Observatory Park Tuesday, July 27, 6-8 PM, The West Woods
The West Woods, Affelder House Movie at dusk; enjoying free ice cream treats while Fee: $7 Geauga residents, $9 out-of-county residents
Enjoy a Nature walk, craft and s’mores by the supplies last! Registration receipt must be shown Join Brigitte Fiorille from Fairmount Center for the Arts
campfire. Bring lawn chairs or blankets for to enter. Bring blankets, chairs and refreshments. to learn the basics of creative weaving with multi-
seating. Registration required. Movie shown indoors if inclement weather. colored yarns on a branch base. Ages 10+ with adult.
Registration required.
23 Full Moon Hike: 25 Summer Exploration:
The Green Corn Moon Pond and Meadow 29 Drop-in Nature Craft:
Friday, July 23, 9-10 PM Sunday, July 25, 11AM-12:30 PM & Catalpa Seed Pod Snakes
Observatory Park 2-3:30 PM, Swine Creek Reservation Thursday, July 29, 1-3 PM
A naturalist-led hike enjoying Nature at sunset. With nets in hand, search for small critters that call Big Creek Park, Aspen Grove
Learn about the connection between growing these habitats home. Equipment provided. Wear Design your own snake with natural materials while
corn and the stars. Observe the rising full moon shoes/boots that can get wet. Registration required. learning some fun facts about them. Craft available
using park telescopes, weather permitting. Bring while supplies last.
binoculars too. Registration required. 25 The Sky Tonight
Planetarium Show 31 LaDue Kayak Float
23 Moonlight Paddle Sunday, July 25, 2 PM & 3 PM Saturday, July 31, 10 AM-Noon, LaDue
(Ages 12+ with adult) Friday, July 23 Observatory Park Reservoir, Rt. 44 Parking Lot South of US 422
9-11 PM, Headwaters Park, Boathouse Learn about what to watch for in the night sky Look for cormorants, herons, eagles, osprey and more
Enjoy beautiful East Branch Reservoir, with this week. Runs 45 minutes. Please only register while exploring the lake and shoreline. Bring your own
stargazing and Nature’s night sounds. Experience for one time slot. Registration required. kayak and binoculars or reserve ours. Basic experience
required. Cancelled the day prior if bad weather is required. Ages 16+ w/adult. Registration required
forecast. Registration required beginning July 16. 26 Nature Journaling: beginning July 23.
24 Introduction to Field Study 31 Russell Uplands
Monday, July 26, 9:30 AM-Noon &
Archery for Families Discovery Hike
1:30-4 PM, Orchard Hills Park, Lodge
Saturday, July 24, 9-10:30 AM & Fee: $20 Geauga residents, $24 out-of-county residents Saturday, July 31, 10-11:30 AM &
11 AM-12:30 PM, Observatory Park, Learn basic journaling techniques and different ways 1-2:30 PM, Russell Uplands Preserve
Nassau Astronomical Station to record your field observations. Partially outdoors. Explore the forested trails of this beautiful park. Parking
Learn the basics of target archery. Participants Taking photos is optional. One-time registration fee limited; carpooling recommended. Rain or shine; dress
must be age 9+ and at least 50” tall. Minors must for the monthly series includes a journal, pen and for the weather. Approximately 1.5 miles over hilly
have adult registered with them. Registration pencil. Registration required by phone only. terrain. No restrooms available. Registration required.
required.
RECURRING PROGRAMS
1 8 15 22 29 13 27 Geauga Walkers
Lunchtime Yoga in the Park 9 10 Odds & Ends Baskets Tuesdays, 1-2:30 PM
(Ages 10+ with adult) Thursdays, July 1, 8, Friday, July 9, 12:30-5:30 PM & July 13 at Holbrook Hollows
15, 22 & 29, Noon-1 PM, The West Woods Saturday, July 10, 12:30-5:30 PM July 27 at Whitlam Woods
Fee: $7 Geauga resident, $10 out-of-county resident Big Creek Park, Deep Woods Hikes for active seniors 1-1½ miles long. Naturalist
Enjoy yoga with Darlene Kelbach from Fairmount Fee: $20 Geauga residents, $24 out-of-county residents led. Call Geauga Senior Center for full schedule:
Center for the Arts. Dress comfortably, bring yoga Design and weave a basket with a basic provided 440-279-2126. Registration required.
mat and water bottle. Registration required. pattern. Weaving experience recommended.
Registration required. 30 31 Timbertots:
7 14 21 28 Geauga Forest Explorers
Cyclists Weekly Ride 9 10 Night Sky Viewing (Ages 3-5 w/adult)
Wednesdays, July 7, 14, 21 & 28 Friday & Saturday, July 9 & 10 Friday, July 30, 10-11 AM & 1-2 PM
4-5:30 PM, The Maple Highlands Trail 9-11 PM, Observatory Park Big Creek Park, Deep Woods
A senior bike ride for 55+. Bring your bike, Drop in during program hours to observe the wonders
of the night sky using the Oberle telescope.
Saturday, July 31, 10-11 AM & 1-2 PM
helmet and water. Meet the group at the Park
Avenue trailhead parking area behind Marc’s in
B Benner Metzenbaum Park, Wisteria Hill
Chardon to join an escorted ride! 9 23 Certify Your Home Explore sights, sounds and smells of the forest with
Nora the Explorer! Outdoors, weather permitting;
As “Dark Sky Friendly”
8 26 After-Work Walk Friday, July 9, 7-8 PM, Observatory Park
dress accordingly. All attending (adults & siblings)
must register. Registration required.
UGA G
Thursday, July 8, 6:30-7:30 PM & Friday, July 23, 7-8 PM, Virtual program
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Monday, July 26, 6:30-7:30 PM Learn what to do to limit light pollution and certify your home as “Dark Sky Friendly.” July 23 is
Big Creek Park, Deep Woods Shelter online via the free software Zoom. Register and receive a link to join. Registration required.
Join a naturalist for a medium level one-mile hike
along the Hemlock Trail. Registration required. www.geaugaparkdistrict.org • PARKEXPLORER 9
AUGUST
Register online or by calling 440-286-9516 beginning June 20 at 10 AM
All programs and special events are subject to change or be cancelled.
Please check our website for updates before heading out.
Adventure/Discovery Arts Astronomy Kids Seniors
14 Meadow Meander
2 Geauga Skywatchers 8 Nature Exploration Saturday, August 14, 9:30-11 AM
Club: Humans to Mars Kayak (Ages 10+ w/adult) The Rookery
View amazing displays of meadow and prairie plants
Monday, August 2, 6:30-7:30 PM Sunday, August 8, 10-11:30 AM & and some wildlife that benefit from these plantings,
Virtual program 1-2:30 PM, Bass Lake Preserve like pollinators. Indoor presentation with separate
Overview of NASA’s planning for sending Enjoy a peaceful float on this beautiful lake and registration follows. Registration required.
humans to Mars and the 1987-92 Space experience summer. Experience recommended.
Exploration Initiative study. Learn the objectives, Bring a snack, water and sunscreen. Registration 14 Plant Your Own Meadow
the mission, space propulsion systems, space required beginning July 25.
environment concerns, living on Mars, and Saturday, August 14, 11:30 AM-12:30 PM
colonization plans. Current status of robotic 9 Early Morning UGA G The Rookery, Great Blue Heron Lodge
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also discussed. Visit the Geauga Skywatchers
Nature Walk including pollinators and look amazing, too. Previous
YouTube channel to see Part I. Designed for Monday, August 9, 8-9:30 AM & outdoor walk (separate registration) will showcase
grades 6-12 but anyone can join. Registration 10-11:30 AM, Observatory Park, meadow and prairie plants already established.
required at https://geaugalibrary.libcal.com. Join a naturalist for an early morning walk to Registration required.
see what the season has to offer. Binoculars
4 Drop-in Nature Craft: recommended. Registration required. 14 Bass Lake Kayak
Buckeye Yarn Art (Ages 10+ w/adult) Saturday, August 14
Wednesday, August 4, 1-3 PM
10 Nature Explorers: 1-2:30 PM, Bass Lake Preserve
The West Woods, Turkey Ridge Streamlife Safari Enjoy wildlife and the surroundings of these tranquil
(Ages 6-11 w/adult) Tuesday, August 10, waters. Experience required. Rain or shine, except
Drop in during program hours to create yarn art
for thunderstorm; dress accordingly; wear shoes to
with a buckeye nut as the center and learn fun 10:30 AM-12 PM & 1-2:30 PM get wet/muddy. Bring drinking water. Registration
facts about buckeye trees. Children must register The West Woods, Deer Run Shelter required beginning August 6.
with adult. Registration required.
Discover wildlife such as crayfish, and crane fly
7 Amphibious Adventure larva. Rain or shine; dress accordingly and wear 14 Nights Out in the Parks:
shoes/boots for wading in a rocky stream; no
Saturday, August 7, 1-2:30 PM & sandals. Adult must register and attend with child. Chardon Polka Band
3-4:30 PM, Swine Creek Reservation, Registration required by phone. Saturday, August 14, 7-8:30 PM
Hayes Road Entrance Big Creek Park, Amphitheater
Hike the rugged Valley Trail down to the creek,
11 West Woods Enjoy your favorite polka tunes with a twist! Lawn
then discover what lives in and around the Wednesdays Farm Market chairs recommended. Held indoors if inclement
creek. Wear close-toed shoes that can get wet. weather. Registration required.
Wednesday, August 11, 4-7 PM
Registration required.
The West Woods Picnic Shelters 15 Affelder Stream
7 Movie Night: Purchase locally made/grown items. Snacks will
be available for purchase. Live music by Rebecca Exploration
“Mary Poppins” (Rated G) Wohlever. Sunday, August 15, 9-11 AM & 1-3 PM
Saturday, August 7, 8:30-11:30 PM The West Woods, Affelder House
Observatory Park 11 Moths & Meteors Search for salamanders, crayfish and more in the
Enjoy a movie under this dark sky, enjoying free Overnight Event Affelder stream. Outdoors; rain or shine; dress
ice cream treats while supplies last! Movie at accordingly and wear shoes/boots for walking in a
Wednesday, August 11, 9 PM-6 AM rocky stream; no sandals. Registration required.
dusk; registration receipt must be shown to enter.
Bring blankets, lawn chairs and refreshments.
Observatory Park
Movie shown indoors if inclement weather. Spend the night enjoying the Perseid Meteor 16 Summer Stroll UGA G
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Monday, August 16, 7-8:30 PM
8 Celebrating National black light and mercury vapor lamps! Best meteor
viewing 1-3 AM. Naturalist on site until sunrise. The Rookery, Great Blue Heron Lodge
S’more Day See website for all rules and camping guidelines. An easy stroll along the Interurban Trail! Look
Sunday, August 8, 10 AM, 11 AM, Cancelled if inclement weather. Registration and listen for Nature along the way. Registration
required beginning June 20 for Geauga residents required.
1 PM, 2 PM, 4 PM & 5 PM
and August 1 for out-of-county residents.
Chickagami Park, Amphitheater 17 Toddler Time: Sensing
Roast a marshmallow and build a delicious s’more
to celebrate plus learn a bit of s’more history.
12 Lake Kelso Kayak the Summer (Ages 1-2 w/adult)
Runs 30 minutes. Registration required. (Ages 10+ w/adult) Tuesday, August 17, 9-10 AM &
Thursday, August 12, 6:30-8 PM, Burton 11 AM-12 PM, B Benner Metzenbaum Park
8 Nature Arts Festival Wetlands Nature Preserve, Lake Kelso Experience Nature with your little one as we see, smell
Sunday, August 8, 10 AM-5 PM Enjoy wildlife and surroundings of these tranquil and touch summertime in the park. Strollers and carriers
waters. Experience and life vests required. Rain or welcome! All attending must register, including adults
Big Creek Park
shine, except for thunderstorm; dress accordingly and siblings. Registration required by phone only.
30th annual event with Nature-inspired arts on and wear shoes to get wet/muddy. Bring drinking
display and for sale by regional artists. Activities
for the whole family! Includes live music, Nature
water. Registration required beginning August 5. 19 Elderberries at Camp
Writing Contest winner readings, food vendors
and more. Park at Chardon Arts Festival on
13 Family Night in the Park Thursday, August 19, 9 AM-Noon
Chickagami Park
Chardon Square and take a FREE 5-minute bus Friday, August 13, 8-9:30 PM
A morning of traditional camp fun, including archery,
ride to the park. Visit our website for a complete Big Creek Park, Campground Parking camp crafts and more! A collaboration with Geauga
schedule of events when available. Families will enjoy a Nature walk, craft and Department on Aging and University Hospitals
s’mores by the campfire. Bring lawn chairs or Geauga Medical Center. Registration required
blankets for seating. Registration required. beginning June 20 for Geauga residents and
10 PARKEXPLORER • www.geaugaparkdistrict.org August 1 for out-of-county residents.Geauga Park District will continue to follow
current state guidelines for COVID-19 safety.
Fully Accessible Nature Scopes
AUGUST
19 Singing Insects 22 Hidden Gems Hike: UGA G
28 Introduction to
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Evening Concert Swine Creek Valley Archery for Families
Thursday, August 19, 7:45-9:30 PM Sunday, August 22 Saturday, August 28, 9-10:30 AM &
Holbrook Hollows Noon-1:30 PM & 2-3:30 PM 11-12:30 PM, Chickagami Park
The summer insect ensemble resounds on warm Swine Creek Reservation, Valley Shelter Learn the basics of target archery. Participants
August nights, but how can we learn who’s singing Discover this amazing, often-overlooked area. Ability must be age 9+ and at least 50” tall. Minors must
in the dark? Noted cricket/katydid expert Lisa to hike 1.5 miles over hilly terrain with stream have adult registered with them. Registration
Rainsong will lead this expedition to discover their crossing. Held rain or shine. Wear shoes to get wet/ required.
songs and who is singing! Registration required. muddy. Registration required.
28 Trail Horse
20 Meet the Artists: Geauga 22 Full Moon Hike: Nature Challenge
Arts Council Juried Art Show The Sturgeon Moon Saturday, August 28, 10 AM-3 PM
Friday, August 20, 7-9 PM Sunday, August 22, 9-10 PM The West Woods
The West Woods Observatory Park Challenge yourself and your horse on a 1-2 hour
Meet local artists representing their works featured Experience Nature at night and learn about the course with natural trail obstacles and Nature
in this annual juried art show, now in its 15th year. amazing Great Lakes sturgeon, for whom this questions. Awards and certificates given in youth
Artwork on display through October 5. month’s full moon is named. Then, weather and adult divisions. Helmets recommended. Trailer
permitting, observe the rising full moon using park your horse to The West Woods shelter parking
20 Moonlight Paddle telescopes. You may also bring binoculars to view lot. Participants will be assigned departure times
the moon. Registration required. in order of registration. Ride out individually or in
(Ages 12+ w/adult) Friday, August 20 pairs at a leisurely pace. Expect hills, gravel, mud,
9-11 PM, Headwaters Park, Boathouse
A unique opportunity to stargaze and listen to
23 Nature Journaling: streams, bicycles, hikers and other challenges.
Bring shovel to clean up after your horse in the
Nature’s night sounds. Experience required. Cancelled Snag Ecology parking lot. Registration required.
the day prior if bad weather is forecast. Registration Monday, August 23, 9:30 AM-Noon &
required beginning August 13. 1:30-4 PM, Claridon Woodlands 28 Nights Out in the Parks:
21 Nature Break:
Fee: $20 Geauga residents, $24 out-of-county residents The Pop Tarts
Learn basic journaling techniques to record your Saturday, August 28, 7-8:30 PM
Women’s Retreat Nature observations. Learn about the importance of
Big Creek Park, Amphitheater
Saturday, August 21, 8:30 AM-Noon dead standing trees in the forest. Partially outdoors.
Taking photos is optional. A one-time registration Celebrate Geauga Park District’s 60th Anniversary
Bass Lake Preserve, Lodge fee for the monthly series includes a journal, pen and head back to the ‘60s for some groovy
Fee: $4 Geauga residents, $5 out-of-county residents entertainment featuring top hit favorites from the
and pencil. Registration required by phone only.
Take a break and relax in the park, choosing from best girl groups and female pop singers of this
activities including yoga, a Nature-related activity
and kayaking. Bring a mat or beach towel; dress in
26 Drop-in Nature Craft: decade! Lawn chairs recommended. Held indoors
if inclement weather. Registration required.
layers with comfy clothes for being outside and for Recycled Picture Frame
yoga. Registration required. Spider Webs 29 Stream Exploration &
21 Geauga Gems UGA G Thursday, August 26, 1-3 PM Monitoring at the Upper
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Trekking Series Hike Turn an old picture frame into a spider web wall Sunday, August 29, 10 AM-Noon &
Saturday, August 21, 10-11 AM & hanging while learning some fun facts about orb
weaver spiders. Craft available while supplies last. 1:30-3:30 PM, Offsite, Chesterland
3-4 PM, Chickagami Park
Children must be accompanied by an adult. Take a backcountry hike and enter the Chagrin
Ability to hike a mile on mostly even terrain. Held
River to catch and identify stonefly larvae, water
rain or shine; dress accordingly and bring drinking
water. Registration required. 26 Maple Town Tune pennies and other invertebrates as well as
Rainbow Darters and stream fish as indicators of
Traders Jam Session stream water quality. Dress for the weather with
21 Welton’s Gorge UGA G
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The West Woods, Nature Center knee-deep water. Directions will be provided to
registrants. Registration required.
Exploration Come to play, sing or simply enjoy as audience.
Musicians of all levels, genres and instruments are
Saturday, August 21, 1-3:30 PM
welcome. Registration required. 29 The Sky Tonight
Welton’s Gorge Planetarium Show
A strenuous off-trail hike into a rocky woodland
ravine. Discover deep rock ledges, cool streams, plants,
27 Homeschool Days: Sunday, August 29, 2 PM & 3 PM
salamanders and more. Slippery stream bottoms, steep Family Learning Fair! Observatory Park, Robert McCullough
grades and obstacles. Rain or shine; dress accordingly; Friday, August 27, 10:30 AM-12:30 PM & Science Center
wear sturdy shoes with good traction. Walking stick 1:30-3:30 PM, The West Woods Join us for a planetarium presentation on the night
recommended. Registration required. sky this week. Each program 45 minutes; please only
Drop in anytime during program hours to
participate in fun activities and gather information register for one. Registration required.
21 Nassau Astronomy from Geauga County organizations that offer
Night with CVAS educational opportunities for homeschool
RECURRING PROGRAMS
Saturday, August 21, 7-11 PM students. Program mostly outdoors, so dress
accordingly. Please allow an hour or more to
Observatory Park,
Nassau Astronomical Station
participate. All attending must register, Find August’s recurring
including adults and siblings. Registration
Join members of the Chagrin Valley Astronomical required. programs continued at the
Society to take in the wonders of the night sky
using our newly restored telescope! Discover this bottom of page 15.
amazing facility and all it has to offer. Limited
www.geaugaparkdistrict.org • PARKEXPLORER 11
number of people permitted in building; may result
in a wait. Cancelled if cloudy.SEPTEMBER
Register online or by calling 440-286-9516 beginnning June 20
at 10 AM All programs and special events are subject to change or be cancelled.
Please check our website for updates before heading out.
Adventure/Discovery Arts Astronomy Kids Seniors
12 Nature Exploration Kayak
2 The Great Geauga 11 Backcountry Hike UGA G
(Ages 10+ w/adult) Sunday,
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County Fair Saturday, September 11, September 12, 10-11:30 AM & 1-2:30 PM
9:30 AM-12 PM, The West Woods, Burton Wetlands Nature Preserve
Thursday, September 2 – Monday, Enjoy a peaceful float along this beautiful wetland
September 6, 11 AM-7 PM Affelder House
as we experience the sights and sounds of nature.
Geauga County Fairgrounds, Off-trail hike in a mature woodland to enjoy views Experience recommended. Bring a snack, water and
Natural Resources Area along Affelder Stream and Silver Creek. Must be sunscreen. Registration required beginning August 29.
capable of several miles of strenuous off-trail
Meet the Monarch Butterfly and see what’s new hiking with muddy woodlands and some steep
with Geauga Park District! Daily live Monarch slopes. Dress for weather; wear sturdy boots/ 13 Beeches at Beartown UGA G
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shoes with good traction. Registration required. Monday, September 13, 9-10:30 AM
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available. Closes Sept 6 at 6 PM.
& 11 AM-12:30 PM, Beartown Lakes
8 West Woods 11 Scout Day: Brownie Girl Reservation, North Point Shelter
Wednesdays Farm Market Scouts “Hiker Badge” Learn about the beech tree and its connections in
the forest. Approximately 2 miles on gravel trail.
Saturday, September 11, 9:30-11 AM
Wednesday, September 8, 4-7 PM Registration required.
The West Woods, Nature Center
The West Woods Picnic Shelters
Purchase locally made/grown items.Snacks will
Brownies (with an adult), work on requirements
1, 2, 3 & 5. We’ll take a late summer hike,
13 Geauga Skywatchers
be available for purchase. Live music by Jesse enjoying this special time to enjoy the outdoors. Club: Black Holes
Huge. All attending must register, including adults. Monday, September 13, 6:30-7:30 PM
Registration required. Virtual program
9 Toddler Time: Sensing Learn about these mysterious “dark stars” and their
the Summer (Ages 1-2 w/adult) 11 Scout Day: Webelos extreme gravity zones. Explore how they work and how
Thursday, September 9, 9-10 AM & “Into the Wild” you can contribute to their research. Visit the Geauga
11 AM-Noon, Orchard Hills Park Skywatchers YouTube channel to see Part I of this
Saturday, September 11, 1-4 PM series. Designed for grades 6-12 but anyone can join.
Experiene Nature with your little one as we The West Woods, Nature Center Registration required at https://geaugalibrary.libcal.com.
see, smell and touch summertime in the park. Webelos (with an adult), work on this elective.
Strollers and carriers welcome! All attending
must register, including adults and siblings.
Partially outdoors; dress accordingly. All
attending must register, including adults.
16 Elderberries:
Registration required. Registration required. Astronomy Night
Thursday, September 16, 7-9 PM
10 Chagrin River Bird 11 Chagrin River Bird Observatory Park, Robert McCullough
Quest Birding Challenge Quest Celebration Science Center
Friday, September 10, 4-6 PM Saturday, September 11, 4-7:30 PM Rotate between a planetarium show and night sky
The West Woods, Turkey Ridge Shelter The West Woods Nature Center viewing (weather permitting) to peer deep into the
Bird enthusiasts: a 24-hour birding marathon night sky to see celestial features. A collaboration with
The 24-hour birding challenge ends with a Geauga Department on Aging and University Hospitals
awaits you! Assemble a team and register by celebration! Turn in your checklists for judging
going to www.clevelandaudubon.org and click Geauga Medical Center. Registration required
and enjoy hearty refreshments, awards, and door beginning June 20 for Geauga County residents and
on the Bird Quest button. Then come to The West prizes. Details at www.clevelandaububon.org.
Woods for team check-in to get all your supplies September 1 for out-of-county residents.
and goodies. Spend the next 24 hours birding;
visit website for rules.
12 Caveman Crawl 5K 17 End of Summer Stroll UGA G
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Friday, September 17, 4-5:30 PM
10 Eco Printing Workshop Sunday, September 12, 7-11 AM & 6-7:30 PM, Walter C. Best Wildlife
Friday, September 10, 6 - 8:30 PM The West Woods Preserve, Sunset Shelter
Big Creek Park, Meyer Center Fee: $20 early registration, $25 day of event Take a mile-long stroll along the paved trail around
Fee: $35 Geauga residents, $38 out of county residents Experience this one-of-a-kind 5K trail run the lake, looking and listening for Nature along the
Join artist Deb Berkebile to create a silk scarf, through wooded hills, now in its 10th year, and way. Registration required.
learning a form of natural dyeing utilizing bundled earn a commemorative medal just for finishing.
plant materials to draw pigments for interesting Cave costumes encouraged! Virtual option 18 Ansel’s Cave Hike:
and surprising marks on fibers. No experience available. Details and online/paper registration
necessary. Dress for mess and bring 6-12 leaves for forms available at http://bit.ly/gpdcaveman. History Written in Rock
experimentation. Registration required. Paper registration forms also at The West Woods Saturday, September 18, 10 AM-Noon &
Nature Center and Big Creek Park’s Meyer 1-3 PM, The West Woods, Nature Center
11 Late Summer Center. Day-of registration 7-8:30 AM, costume
contest 8:30 AM, events themselves at 9 AM.
Explore the sights and sounds of Ansel’s Cave on
Family Bike Ride Course is primarily well graded dirt and gravel
this medium-level two-mile hike – a rare opportunity
to go into this restricted area! Rain or shine: dress
Saturday, September 11, 10 AM-2 PM with minimal pavement running. Unique awards accordingly. Wear sturdy shoes. Registration required.
Headwaters Park, Bike Trail Parking for winning runners and most creative costumes.
Families, head out to Headwaters for a ride with
Walkers welcome! Please note: No dogs allowed
in the race or walk. Registration required.
18 Nassau Astronomy
Executive Director John Oros and Park Board
Commissioner Mario Innocenzi along The Maple
Night with CVAS
Highlands Trail, culminating with complimentary 12 60th Anniversary Hike Saturday, September 18, 7-11 PM
food and beverages at Crystal Lake Shelter. Sunday, September 12, 9-10:30 AM Observatory Park, Nassau Station
Registration required. & 1-2:30 PM, Whitlam Woods UGA G
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Celebrate Geauga Park District’s 60th Society to take in the wonders of the night sky using
Anniversary with a mile-long, medium-level hike our newly restored telescope! Discover this amazing
at one of our first parks! Registration required. facility and all it has to offer. Limited number of
people permitted in the building; may result in wait
12 PARKEXPLORER • www.geaugaparkdistrict.org to get inside. Cancelled if cloudy.Geauga Park District will continue to follow
current state guidelines for COVID-19 safety.
Fully Accessible Nature Scopes
SEPTEMBER
19 Geauga Gems Fall Hike 25 A Passion for Pawpaws 26 The Sky Tonight
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Saturday, September 25, 1:30-4 PM Planetarium Show
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Sunday, September 26, 2 PM & 3 PM
Claridon Woodlands Discover why the pawpaw has been called Observatory Park, Robert McCullough
Take a fall hike along the Whitetail, Tree Tappers American’s forgotten fruit and how it is making
Science Center
and Drake trails to discover what the season has a comeback as we hike through a pawpaw
patch. Registration required. Join us for a planetarium presentation about
to offer. Registration required.
what to watch for in the night sky this week. Each
20 Full Moon Hike: 26 Nature Trek Fitness Hike program is 45 minutes. Please only register for one.
Registration required.
The Pawpaw Moon Sunday, September 26
Monday, September 20, 7:30-8:30 PM 9-11 AM & 1-3 PM 27 Nature Journaling: Galls
Observatory Park Observatory Park, Cygnus Shelter Monday, September 27, 9:30 AM-Noon &
September brings ripe pawpaw fruit! Enjoy a Let’s move it, people! Burn off those calories 1:30-4 PM, Frohring Meadows
naturalist-led hike observing Nature after sunset on this fitness hike, learning some cool Nature Fee: $20 Geauga residents, $24 out-of-county residents
and learn about Ohio’s official native fruit. Then, facts along the way. Participants should have
Learn basic journaling techniques to record your
weather permitting, observe the rising full moon the ability to hike at least three miles. Held rain
Nature observations. This month will be learning
using park telescopes. Bring binoculars too. or shine, so dress accordingly and bring water.
about the insect galls we find in the meadow.
Registration required. Registration required.
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Partially outdoors. Taking photos is optional. A one-
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time registration fee for the monthly series includes
26 Thompson Ledges
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Wednesday, September 22, 7-8:30 PM Backcountry Hike phone only.
Burton Wetlands Nature Preserve Sunday, September 26, 10 AM-Noon
Enjoy an evening stroll along the Kettle Trail & 1-3 PM, Thompson Ledges Township
approximately 1.25 miles. Participants should be Park, Thompson Road 8 9 The Bird
prepared for the weather. Registration required. (East of Thompson town square on Rte 528) Tornado Strikes Again!
Explore these magnificent ledges, oak and hemlock Wednesday, September 8, 7-8:30 PM
23 Maple Town Tune forests and unique plant and bird life. Capable of & Thursday, September 9, 7-8:30 PM
Traders Jam Session hiking several miles of rocky uneven terrain with
Berkshire High School, Parking Lot
steep slopes. Wear sturdy footwear that can get
Thursday, September 23, 7-10 PM wet and muddy. Registration required. Witness a cyclone of hundreds of Chimney
The West Woods, Nature Center Swifts plummeting into an old chimney used
Come to play, sing or simply enjoy as audience. as a migratory motel on their journey to South
Musicians of all levels, genres and instruments are America. Bring a chair to watch an unforgettable
welcome. Registration required. RECURRING PROGRAMS spectacle! Registration required.
25 Introduction to 10 24 Citizen Science:
Archery for Adults 1 8 15 22 29 Space Projects
Saturday, September 25, 9-10:30 AM Geauga Cyclists Weekly Ride Friday, September 10, 7-8 PM
& 11 AM-12:30 PM, Chickagami Park Wednesdays, September 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 Observatory Park
Learn the basics of target archery. Participants 4-5:30 PM, The Maple Highlands Trail Friday, September 24, 7-8 PM
must be at least 50” tall. Registration required. A senior bike ride for 55+. Bring your bike, helmet Virtual program
and water. Meet the group at the Park Avenue We’ll share some citizen science projects that will
25 Horseback Riders: Amish trailhead parking area behind Marc’s in further our understanding of the universe.
Sept. 24 is online via free software Zoom. Register
Buggy Training & Trail Ride Chardon to join an escorted ride!
and receive a link to join. Registration required.
Saturday, September 25
9:30 AM-1:30 PM, Swine Creek 7 21 Geauga Walkers 10 11 24 25
Reservation, Woods Edge Shelter Tuesday, September 7, 1-2:30 PM
Bring your horse to meet and experience a
Night Sky Viewing
Orchard Hills Park
stationary and moving Amish horse and buggy Friday & Saturday, September 10 & 11
in a non-threatening way courtesy of Rhoda Tuesday, September 21, 1-2:30 PM Friday & Saturday, September 24 & 25
Wengerd. Learn to safely share the trail with Burton Wetlands Nature Preserve 9-11 PM, Observatory Park
buggies till 11 AM. Then join a naturalist-led Hikes for active seniors 1-1 ½ miles long. Naturalist
Drop in during program hours to observe the
trail ride. Bring a lunch to share time with led. Call Geauga Senior Center for full schedule:
wonders of the night sky using the Oberle
other riders at Woods Edge Shelter. Helmets 440-279-2126. Registration required.
telescope.
recommended and bring shovel for clean up.
Registration required. 8 11 Timbertots: Leave 10 24 Monarchs &
25 Crystal Lake Canoe it to Beavers (Ages 3-5 w/adult) Meadow Insects
Wednesday, September 8, 10-11 AM & Sunday, September 12, 12:30-4 PM
(Ages 10+ w/adult)
1-2 PM, Claridon Woodlands Orchard Hills Park, Lodge
Saturday, September 25, 1-2:30 PM
Headwaters Park, Boat Launch Saturday, September 11, Sunday, September 19, 12:30-4 PM
Explore the beautiful East Branch Reservoir 10-11 AM & 1-2 PM, The Rookery Swine Creek Reservation, Lake Side
while searching for the historic Crystal Lake and Join Nora the Explorer to discover Nature’s engineers
Net butterflies including Monarchs and meadow
learning about its rich history. Ages 10+ with through fun activities and a walk. Outdoors, weather
insects such as grasshoppers & katydids. Nets
adults with canoeing experience. Wear shoes permitting, dress accordingly. All attending must
provided or bring your own. Sunscreen, socks,
that get wet, a change of clothes and bring register, including adults and siblings. Registration
hat and long pants recommended. Drop in
water. Registration required by phone only required.
any time.
beginning September 17.
www.geaugaparkdistrict.org • PARKEXPLORER 13Nature Writing Contest Winners
Congratulations to all 30 talented winners of our 26th Annual Child Poetry Child Prose
Nature Writing Contest! Their works are linked from our 1st .........Mitch Neff 1st .........Manya Raina
News & Updates page for you to enjoy. All are also invited to 2nd .......Adam Nitz 2nd .......Kiefer Schatz
honor them during our Nature Arts Festival at 3 p.m. (details 3rd ........Gabrielle Armstrong 3rd ........Joshua Gordon
on page 10), where judges will discuss their decisions and HM.........Liam Gorris HM.........Ava Carbone
winners will read their works, followed by a casual open mic. HM.........Amarianna Mormile HM.........Saanvi Chari
Adolescent Poetry Adolescent Prose
1st..........Maya Taylor 1st..........Chloe Leng
2nd........Carmen Hu 2nd........Omar Elbadawy
3rd.........Saoirse Niehus 3rd ........Abby Colbow
HM.........Hannah McCauley HM.........Angela D’Souza
HM.........Gregory Palumbo HM.........Mariana Del Rio
Adult Poetry Adult Prose
1st..........Karen Morgan 1st..........Andrew France
2nd........David Adams 2nd........Matt Hayward
3rd.........Nancy Huth 3rd ........Mike Albright
HM.........Nanette Barrett HM.........Samantha Schatz
HM.........Sam Wright HM.........Jacob Silvia
CALLING AGES 12-18
It’s time for more young people to discover their
parks! So if you are age 12-18 living in Geauga
County, earning an exciting prize this summer
will be as easy as creating a meme with a picture
you took in a Geauga Park District park. Plus, all
qualified participants will be entered to win one of
five exciting grand prizes!
Visit our website under News & Updates for
guidelines, and watch for the great prize unveil
coming in July.
14
MEET MEME IN THE PARK
PARKEXPLORER • www.geaugaparkdistrict.orgYou can also read
