SPRING 2019 from the summer camps executive director

pring is a great time to get out and explore your Metro Parks and enjoy the best Sof what nature has to offer. The early emerging spring peepers with their sleigh bell-like sounds are my personal favorite harbinger of the season. Pick a park and head out on a woodland or meadow trail and spend an hour or so taking in all the sights and sounds that surround you as nature springs back. REGISTRATION OPENS MARCH 1 Animals are awakening, birds are migrating back, woodland wildflowers are blooming and your Metro Parks are bursting with adventures. Check metroparks.net for a fantastic range of week-long camps available for your kids this summer. We have Traditional Day Camps for Grades 1-3 and 4-6, plus age-appropriate Speaking of adventure, be sure and check out Metro Parks’ newest venture to Nature Adventure Camps for PreSchool and Grades 1–3, 4–6 and 7–9. get folks to discover, learn, enjoy and grow in the outdoors. We’ve put together a team of individuals who will focus on creating experiential recreation programs and opportunities where individuals can discover strengths they didn’t know they contents had or learn new outdoor pursuits. connect with us About Us______4 Check out this issue of the ParkScope or look on our website or Facebook tiny.cc/mp-fb We have the place for you ______5 Events for Outdoor Adventure offerings this spring and take a walk on the wild side. Map ______6 tiny.cc/mp-inst We’re going to have multi-night backpacking trips at Clear Creek and Battelle Parks______8 Darby Creek, stand-up paddle boarding throughout the park district, kayaking on Programs______28 tiny.cc/mp-tw the Scioto River and Big Darby Creek and a Metro Five-0 Outdoor Adventure for Front cover photo: Mindi McConnell folks over 50 to name just a few. tiny.cc/mp-ytube While there are always adventures for everybody at a Metro Park, this year the

choices are endless. This spring, our naturalists and education staff are offering tiny.cc/mp-blog about 500 free interpretive programs, as they have for more than 60 years. Many of these programs will give you the chance to see wildlife up close, walk the woods tiny.cc/mp-news with your dog when the moon is full or discover amphibians in a vernal pool. So get up, get outside and find that adventure you have been dreaming of in Web metroparks.net E-mail [email protected] one of your Metro Parks. Information 614.891.0700 Reservations 614.508.8111 Fax 614.895.6208 Tim Moloney, Executive Director InfoLine 614.508.8000 Annette Boose 2 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 3 about us WE HAVE THE PLACE FOR YOU Your Metro Parks offer a wide range of fun opportunities to get out and explore nature, Metro Parks are vitally important to establishing and maintaining the quality of life in our Central but what you might not know is that we also offer great options for hosting your family Ohio community, ensuring the health of families and youth and contributing to the economic reunion, wedding reception, class reunion, birthday party, baby shower and more! and environmental well-being of a community and a region. Metro Parks offers 24 rental facilities ranging from small (50 people) to large (250 Metro Parks attract nearly 11 million people per year and offer exceptional settings for renewal people) for any kind of get-together you can imagine. Our outdoor shelter houses of the human spirit. Visitors can enjoy healthy, fun-filled interaction with the natural world every are available to rent April 1 – October 31 and our indoor lodges are available to rent day of the year. Each year, Metro Parks naturalists offer over 4,000 free programs for individuals of all ages and abilities. year-round. Established in 1945, Metro Parks operates 19 natural area parks in seven Central Ohio counties, OUTDOOR SHELTERS THE GROVE and provides more than 230 miles of trails. The park system protects more than 27,500 acres of We have outdoor shelters available land and water and offers year-round recreational and educational op­por­tunities for youth and by reservation at Blacklick Woods, adults. Facilities and programs are available to the public free-of-charge—made possible by voter support of the 2009 Metro Parks levy. Blendon Woods, Battelle Darby Creek, Highbanks and Homestead. The Mission of Metro Parks is to conserve open spaces, while providing places and opportunities Our indoor lodges and banquet that encourage people to discover and experience nature. rooms are located in Blacklick In accordance with its mission, Metro Parks works to conserve and enhance habitat for the more Woods, Blacklick Woods Golf than 2,400 species of animals and plants that thrive within the parks. Course, Battelle Darby Creek, High- Funding for Metro Parks comes from Franklin County property tax, local government funds, banks, Sharon Woods and Scioto NEW LODGES earned income, grants and partnerships. Grove Metro Parks. Each facility is In the last year we have opened two unique, with a variety of amenities Metro Parks is a separate political subdivision of the state of Ohio organized under Ohio Revised new indoor lodge facilities, Eagleview Code, Section 1545. Metro Parks’ Board of Park Commissioners, composed of three citizens who so you can find the perfect fit for at Blacklick Woods Golf Course and The serve three-year terms without compensation, governs the Park District. Board members are the gathering you’re planning. appointed by the Judge of the Probate Court of Franklin County. Grove at Scioto Grove Metro Park. These facilities are some of the largest in the Metro Parks’ Board of Park Commissioners­ meets monthly. Meetings are open to the public. district and are well-suited for any event! Visit metroparks.net for meeting time, dates and location. HOW TO MAKE A RESERVATION Reservations are accepted 1-year THE GROVE in advance online, over the Board of Park Commissioners Executive Director JB Hadden Tim Moloney The Grove’s main room has three walls of phone, or in person. We also offer Greg S Lashutka floor-to-ceiling windows that truly give discounts to Franklin County Jim McGregor you the feeling of being outside while Residents for all of our facilities. enjoying the warmth of the indoors. It Come out, enjoy our beautiful also includes Wi-Fi and a full-wall projec- facilities and make some incred- tor so you can enjoy the convenience of ible memories with your family, opportunities technology for your event in the park! friends and community!

Metro Parks is committed to conserving natural resources and providing places and oppor- EAGLEVIEW tunities that encourage people to discover and experience nature. To accomplish this goal, a Eagleview, our newest facility, EAGLEVIEW well-trained, dedicated and talented staff is necessary. Job opportunities are very diverse and opened October 2018 and is encompass a wide variety of positions ranging from park technician to naturalist and park our largest facility in the district. ranger, as well as seasonal and internship opportunities. It offers a large meeting room, Check frequently on the web at tiny.cc/mp-jobs. The online application system makes the entrance foyer, and kitchenette application process faster, easier, and more eco-friendly. with a fridge, microwave and ice maker.

4 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 5 Columbus & Franklin County METRO PARKS

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Clear Creek 62 Seven miles 116 south of ) C lear 16 C Cr Rd (C R 1 Lancaster on le C e ek ar ree To US 33 k Lancaster Greenway Trails 33 BATTELLE DARBY CREEK Mac Albin BLACKLICK WOODS Diana Morse

Battelle Darby Creek Park details Blacklick Woods was the first Park details is the largest Metro Park ADDRESS ADDRESS: 1775 Darby Creek Drive, Galloway OH 43119 Metro Park and features a 6975 E Livingston Ave Battelle Darby Creek boasts more than 7,000 Reynoldsburg OH 43068 ACRES 7,103 54-acre state nature preserve acres of forests, prairies, bluffs, wetlands and streams. TRAILS Blacklick Woods opened in 1948 and boasts ACRES: 643 one of the best beech-maple forests in Franklin Big and Little Darby creeks harbor about 100 Ancient (1.9 miles), Camp Chase (12.5 miles) County, along with a swamp forest and button- species of fish and more than 40 species of Cobshell (0.8 miles), Darby Creek TRAILS: bush swamp. mussels, including the federally endangered Greenway (5 miles), Dyer Mill (3.2 miles) Beech (0.5 miles) clubshell and northern riffleshell. A remarkable Edgewood, Lake & Prairie Way (2.3 miles) A walk along the trails provides healthy exercise Blacklick Creek Greenway (16 miles) diversity of species of birds, butterflies and Harrier Loop, Rail Way & Teal (3 miles) as well as an excellent opportunity to view Buttonbush (0.5 miles) other wildlife are also found in the forests and Hawthorn (0.8 miles), Indian Ridge (0.6 miles) white-tailed deer, coyotes, mink and other Maple Loop (0.9 miles) remaining prairies that line the creek banks. Riffle Run (0.2 miles), Terrace (2 miles) wildlife in a purely natural setting. Multipurpose (4.1 miles) Turkey Foot (0.5 miles), Wagtail (1.6 miles) Walter A Tucker (0.1 miles) The park has numerous excellent vantage The park boasts more than 600 acres of lush points for birding. Barred owls are a prominent prairies and 1,000 acres of restored wetlands ACTIVITIES ACTIVITIES: attraction for birders in spring. and wet prairies. Bison have been reintroduced Biking, Canoeing & Kayaking, Cross-Country Ski- Biking, Cross-Country Skiing, Golf Courses to the Darby Plains in one of the prairie areas ing, Fishing, Hunting, Ice Skating, Natural Play The nature center’s observation windows allow Nature Center, Pets, Picnicking, Sledding intersected by the Darby Creek Greenway Trail. Area, Nature Center, Pets, Picnicking, Sledding visitors to view birds and other wildlife at the feeders. DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB: A 14,000 sq-foot nature center features a DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB tiny.cc/mp-blk 53-foot living stream, stocked with creatures tiny.cc/mp-bdc The Walter A Tucker State Nature Preserve is found in Big Darby Creek, plus interactive exhib- a heavily wooded 54-acre area featuring a HOURS & INFO: HOURS & INFO its that highlight the natural and cultural history buttonbush swamp. The seasonal swamp pools 6:30am to 10pm April to September Cedar Ridge area: 6:30am to 10pm April–Sept of the area. are prime locations for breeding salamanders 6:30am to 8pm October to March 6:30am to 8pm October–March and frogs. Cell phone: 614.208.4247 All other park areas 6:30am to dark year-round For information on the park’s rental facilities go Nature Center: 614.861.8759 to metroparks.net or phone 614.508.8111. Cell phone 614.370.6254 For information on the park’s rental facilities go Golf Course: 614.861.3193 Nature Center 614.878.7106 to metroparks.net or phone 614.508.8111.

8 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 9 BLACKLICK WOODS GOLF COURSES Virginia Gordon BLENDON WOODS Gil Sears

Blacklick Woods Golf Course is carts allow you to play from tee to green without ever having to leave the cart. Blendon Woods features the Park details ADDRESS 4265 E Dublin-Granville Rd, spread over 235 acres of beautiful As home to First Tee of Central Ohio, Metro 118-acre Waldon Waterfowl Refuge Westerville OH 43081 Parks has turned a 10-week summer program park land Blendon Woods features 653 acres of gently at Blacklick Woods Golf Course into a year- rolling woods and open fields. More than 230 Blacklick Woods Golf Course feature an 18-hole round outreach program. ACRES 653 species of birds have been seen at the park. regulation course (par 72), a 9-hole executive course (par 30), a full-service driving range with a First Tee is an amazing program that teaches At the heart of the Waldon Waterfowl Refuge, TRAILS short game area, and three practice holes. life skills and leadership through the game the 11-acre Thoreau Lake is a magnet for migrat- Brookside (0.8 miles), Goldenrod (1.3 miles) of golf to youth age 7 to 17. Last year more ing waterfowl and shore birds. It includes two Hickory Ridge (0.3 miles), Lake (0.3 miles) For tee times, golf outings or banquets, call than 1,000 youth participated with us in this elevated observation shelters with spotting Overlook (0.6 miles), Ripple Rock (0.4 miles) 614.861.3193. Tee times can also be booked nationally recognized program. scopes that allow for a close-up view of water- Sugarbush (2 miles) online. fowl without disturbing them. For more on First Tee of Central Ohio visit ACTIVITIES Forty acres of the course’s 235 acres are natural their website: thefirstteecentralohio.org Birds frequently seen at Thoreau Lake include Cross-Country Skiing area—a place where birds and birdies peace- pied-billed grebes, great blue and green heron, Day Camp fully coexist. Golf Course details wood duck, lesser scaup, American black duck, Disc Golf, Ice Skating mallard, northern pintail, northern shoveler, Natural Play Area Audubon International has certified the golf ADDRESS American wigeon and hooded merganser. Nature Center courses as a Cooperative Sanctuary for their 7309 E Livingston Avenue, Pets, Picnicking comprehensive environmental management The nature center’s wildlife observation window Reynoldsburg OH 43068 and protection of wildlife habitats. Metro Parks offers a view of The Creek, a 100-foot-long con- has developed the courses with a long-range struction mirroring natural creeks in the park. DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB vision of protection and enhancement of the DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB tiny.cc/mp-bln Ice skating enthusiasts can enjoy a safe natural environment. tiny.cc/mp-blkg 0.4-acre skating pond, only 18 to 24 inches HOURS & INFO In addition to regular golf cart rentals, Metro HOURS & INFO deep. The park also features an 18-hole disc golf course. Loaner discs are available. 6:30am to 10pm April to September Parks has two solo adaptive carts for rental by 6:30am to dark 6:30am to 8pm October to March golfers who are physically challenged and can Golf shop phone 614.861.3193 For information on the park’s rental facilities go Cell phone 614.620.1861 no longer play golf the conventional way. These to metroparks.net or phone 614.508.8111. Nature Center 614.895.6221

10 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 11 CHESTNUT RIDGE Robert Shunk CLEAR CREEK David Dover

Chestnut Ridge is the first ridge Park details Clear Creek is home to Ohio’s Park details in the foothills of the Appalachian ADDRESS largest state nature preserve ADDRESS 8445 Winchester Rd NW 23833 Clear Creek Rd Mountains Carroll OH 43112 Clear Creek Metro Park features over 5,300 acres Rockbridge OH 43149 of woodland interspersed with blackhand sand- The park is situated on a narrow outcropping of stone cliffs, ravines and creeks and is home to ACRES 5,390 Blackhand sandstone, deposited more than 300 ACRES 486 more than 2,200 species of plants and animals. million years ago when Ohio’s ancient ocean Forested areas range from Canadian hemlocks TRAILS drained from the land. The high hills that make TRAILS and ferns, to oak and hickory, to Ohio’s last Cemetery Ridge (2.5 miles) up the ridge span about 4,500 feet and rise to Homesite (0.4 miles) remaining colonies of rhododendron. Chestnut (2.5 miles) 1,116 feet at the highest point. Meadows (1 mile) Ohio Audubon has recognized Clear Creek as an Creekside Meadows (1.7 miles) Milkweed (0.6 miles) Black oak, shagbark hickory and northern red Important Bird Area. It is one of the few places Fern (1.7 miles) Ridge (1 mile) oak trees along the upper slopes and ridge in Ohio to observe 20 species of breeding war- Good Prairie (0.3 miles) Mountain Bike (9 miles) enhance the woodland beauty of the 486-acre blers. The valley is home to nearly 100 species of Hemlock (1.5 miles) Metro Park. Sugar maples and American beech breeding birds, including black vultures, scarlet Lake (0.9 miles) trees are plentiful along the lower slopes. ACTIVITIES tanager, veeries, wood thrush, hermit thrush Prairie Warbler (0.6 miles) Fishing and wild turkey. Tulip Tree (0.6 miles) MOUNTAIN BIKING Mountain Biking About 40 species of plants and animals listed ACTIVITIES The 9-mile Mountain Bike Trail through the Picnicking on Ohio’s rare and endangered species list have Fishing woods provides a terrific workout for moun- been found within the park. State threatened Pets tain bike enthusiasts of all abilities. The 12- to DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB great rhododendron and a large variety of ferns Picnicking 18-inch-wide trail is on an all-natural surface tiny.cc/mp-chr can be seen in the ravines. and features a 230-foot change in elevation. The DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB trail was designed and built by volunteers with HOURS & INFO The topography of the park is extremely tiny.cc/mp-clc rugged. Centuries of glacial flooding have cut the Central Ohio Mountain Bike Organization 6:30am to dark the present valley through the Black-hand (COMBO). There is also a Pump Track, a loop of Cell phone 614.208.4298 HOURS & INFO: dirt berms and rollers, great for cyclists of all sandstone leaving an array of spectacular cliffs, 6:30am to dark ages and abilities. steep ravines and scenic outcroppings of rock Office phone 740.969.8210 overlooking the creek.

12 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 13 GLACIER RIDGE Adam Brandemihl GREENWAYS Bill McCracken

Glacier Ridge is named for the Park details Greenway trails connect scenic CAMP CHASE (12.5 miles) Part of the Ohio to Erie Trail, weaves through ridge or end moraine left when ADDRESS rivers with the diverse neighbor- Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park 9801 Hyland Croy Rd glaciers retreated 14,000 years ago Plain City OH 43064 hoods of Central Ohio DARBY CREEK (8.5 miles) Crushed gravel trail with separate sections More than 50 species of birds have been seen ACRES 1,036 Metro Parks works with several agencies and that run through Battelle Darby Creek and at Glacier Ridge Metro Park’s restored wetlands communities to create and maintain parts or all Prairie Oaks Metro parks in the Honda Wetland Education Area. The TRAILS of the Greenway trails shown on this page for wetlands include a boardwalk and a 22-foot Ironweed (2.8 miles) the citizens of Central Ohio. HERITAGE (6.5 miles) observation tower to see waterfowl and other Marsh Hawk (3 miles) Runs from Old Hilliard to Plain City, through animals. Mink have been seen frequently in the Red Oak (0.8 miles) The Central Ohio Greenways are multi-use trails the Heritage Trail Park and along Homestead area. Savannah (5 miles) used for recreation and alternative transporta- Metro Park The park has a bridle trail, the Savannah Trail, ACTIVITIES tion. They connect people to the places they DOWNTOWN CONNECTOR (5 miles) with a staging area for horse trailer parking. Biking live, work and play as well as preserve open Metro Parks manages a 0.8-mile section There is also a free 18-hole disc golf course, Cross-Country Skiing space to promote air and water quality. of the trail, also known as the I-670 Trail open year-round (bring your own discs). Disc Golf (More information at tiny.cc/mp-gtr or from Horseback Riding MORPC at: www.centralohiogreenways.com). OLENTANGY (15 miles) A natural play area features cedar structures Natural Play Area Scenic trail runs south from Worthington with towers, ramps, ropes, ladders and a zipline. Obstacle Course Hills Park to Confluence Park in downtown A 3-acre obstacle course features 12 challenging Pets (including Dog Park) Columbus stations surrounded by a half-mile paved trail. Picnicking Greenway Trails Visitors can crawl through tunnels, climb poles ALUM CREEK (24.5 miles) (10 miles) and ropes and go over logs and more. DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB Runs south from Westerville to Three Creeks SCIOTO tiny.cc/mp-glr Stretches through the heart of Columbus The 2.5-acre dog park features an open field, and through Scioto Audubon Metro Park BLACKLICK CREEK (16 miles) drinking fountains, paved path and a wooded HOURS & INFO Connects Pickerington Ponds, Blacklick Woods area for dogs to explore and is open to dogs of 6:30am to dark and Three Creeks Metro parks all sizes. Cell phone 614.216.8859

14 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 15 HIGHBANKS Terry Peck HOMESTEAD / HERITAGE TRAIL Leslie Dybiec

Highbanks was named for the Park details Homestead features two large Heritage Trail is great for 110-foot shale bluffs on the ADDRESS: playgrounds for kids biking and horse riding 9466 US23 N, Lewis Center OH 43035 Olentangy River Homestead Metro Park offers a quiet, coun- The 87-acre Heritage Trail Park is adjacent to ACRES: 1,200 try atmosphere with a covered bridge, train the Heritage Rail Trail, a 6.1-mile multi-pur- Highbanks Metro Park encompasses 1,200 acres station replica and two barns. Other features pose trail converted from abandoned of woodlands, fields and wetlands. Three miles TRAILS: include shelters, a 2.5-acre fishing pond, play right-of-way. The paved trail starts in Old of the Olentangy State Scenic River run along Big Meadows Path (1 mile) equipment and courts for sand volleyball and Hilliard off Main Street and continues toward the park’s western boundary. Coyote Run (3.5 miles) basketball. A 0.8-mile paved trail, great for Plain City. Dripping Rock (2.5 miles), Eagle View (0.3 miles) hiking, biking, running, or walking your leashed An observation deck sits atop a towering 110- A bridle trail runs parallel to the main trail for Multi-Use (2.3 miles), Oak Coves Path (0.4 miles) pet, winds through the park and connects to foot shale bluff overlooking the river.Several 3.6 miles. prehistoric cultures used the bluffs as a lookout, Overlook (2.3 miles), Scenic River (0.6 miles) the 6.1-mile Heritage Trail. including the Cole Culture who built the nearby Sycamore (0.4 miles), Wetland Spur (0.4 miles) 1,500-foot horseshoe-shaped earthwork about ACTIVITIES: Park details Park details 800-1200 years ago. Biking, Canoeing & Kayaking, Cross-Country ADDRESS ADDRESS Eagles have nested at the park and eaglets have Skiing, Day Camps, Fishing, Natural Play Area, 4675 Cosgray Rd,Hilliard OH 43026 7262 Hayden Run Rd, Hilliard OH 43026 fledged here since 2010. The nest can be seen Nature Center, Pets, Picnicking, Sledding from this same observation deck, or from the ACRES 44 ACRES 87 River Bluff Area west of the Olentangy. DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB: TRAILS TRAILS tiny.cc/mp-hbk Concretions are a noteworthy feature of the Outer Loop (0.8 miles) Multipurpose (6.1 miles), Bridle (3.6 miles) park’s geology. These round rocks developed HOURS & INFO: around decaying animals on the ocean floor. ACTIVITIES ACTIVITIES 6:30am to 10pm April to September Fishing, Play Areas, Pets, Picnicking Biking, Horse Riding The fossilized jawbone of a prehistoric fish, 6:30am to 8pm October to March dinichthys, was found in one. See a life-size Cell phone: 614.906.3149 replica of this fish in the nature center. DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB Nature Center: 614.846.9962 tiny.cc/mp-hom tiny.cc/mp-htr For information on the park’s rental facilities go (Nature Center hours 9am to 8pm April to HOURS & INFO HOURS & INFO to metroparks.net or phone 614.508.8111. September, 9am to 6pm October to March) 6:30am to dark, Cell phone 614.216.8859 6:30am to dark, Cell phone 614.216.8859

16 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 17 INNISWOOD Bryan Knowles PICKERINGTON PONDS Scott Zimmermann

Inniswood boasts more than Garden details Pickerington Ponds is home to Park details 2,000 species of plants and ADDRESS: one of Franklin County’s largest ADDRESS 940 S Hempstead Rd 7680 Wright Rd several feature gardens Westerville OH 43081 remaining natural wetlands Canal Winchester OH 43110

The 123-acre Inniswood Metro Gardens is a con- ACRES: 123 Pickerington Ponds is a premier spot for bird- ACRES 1,608 tinual source of inspiration for Central Ohioans. watching, with more than 260 species seen. Streams and woodlands filled with wildflowers TRAILS: The combination of seasonal ponds and rich ACTIVITIES wetland vegetation, with bordering woodlands, and wildlife provide a majestic backdrop to the Boardwalk (0.5 miles) Biking serve as a magnet for migrating waterfowl, beautifully landscaped gardens and lawns. Brookwood (0.5 miles) Nature Preserve shore birds and land birds. There are 10 feature gardens, and more than Chipmunk Chatter (0.6 miles) Pets Frog Talk Walk (0.1 miles) Picnicking 2,000 species of plants, which include specialty Deer, beaver, fox and other wildlife can be seen Sisters’ Garden Loop (0.3 miles) collections of hostas, daffodils, daylilies and near the ponds and adjoining woods and fields Spring Run (0.3 miles) TRAILS conifers. of this 1,608-acre park. More than 400 acres Arrowhead (1.7 miles) Inniswood was once the 37-acre estate of sisters have been designated a state nature preserve. ACTIVITIES: Blacklick Creek Greenway Grace and Mary Innis, who donated their home Biking/Pets (outside gardens on (16 miles - connects with Three Creeks and property to Metro Parks in 1972. Since 2000, Metro Parks has restored more than Chipmunk Chatter Trail) 750 acres of wetland and surrounding upland and Blacklick Woods) Over 250 members strong, our fun, energetic habitat, such as grassland and woodland, to Killdeer (1.1 miles) and dedicated volunteers provide hundreds of DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB: reestablish the native wetland and plant com- Meadowlark (1 mile) hours of service each month and are crucial to tiny.cc/mp-inn munities that existed on the sites prior to their Yellowlegs (0.5 miles) the success of Inniswood Metro Gardens. For conversion for agriculture. more information about volunteer service and HOURS & INFO: DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB to find out about the next volunteer training 7am to dark The park has been designated as one of Ohio’s tiny.cc/mp-pkp class, call 614.895.6226. Innis House: 614.895.6216 Important Birding Areas by Audubon Ohio. You can support Inniswood by becoming a Cell phone: 614.208.4301 Sandhill cranes are seen frequently flying over HOURS & INFO member of the Inniswood Garden Society. Visit the ponds. Great blue heron and osprey nest 6:30am to dark inniswood.org to learn about membership. here. Cell phone 614.208.4329

18 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 19 PRAIRIE OAKS Kim Graham ROCKY FORK Dan Bissonette

Prairie Oaks features nearly Park details Rocky Fork includes an off-leash Park details ADDRESS 500 acres of lush flowering ADDRESS 3225 Plain City-Georgesville Rd, trail for dogs and a dog park 7180 Walnut St West Jefferson OH 43162 prairies and grasslands Rocky Fork Metro Park features more than three Westerville OH 43081 Big Darby Creek flows through the 2,203-acre ACRES 2,203 miles of walking trails that wind through woods park and provides a beautiful backdrop for and fields. ACRES 1,003 outdoor adventure. The Darby Watershed is TRAILS TRAILS nationally recognized for its ecological diver- Alder (0.6 miles) The park features an off-leash dog trail, the first Beech Woodland (1.3 miles) sity, and is home to nearly 100 species of fish Beaver Lake (0.9 miles) in the park system, plus a 2-acre dog park with Bridle (2.5 miles) and 44 species of mussels. Bridle (5.7 miles) splash pads. Dog (0.3 miles) Coneflower (2.5 miles) Darby Bend Lakes is a water recreational Millstone Connector (0.5 miles) Darby Creek Greenway (3.5 miles) The 2.5-mile bridle trail includes a separate park area, featuring three beautiful lakes. Visitors North Meadow (1 mile) Lakeview (0.9 miles) entrance on Bevelhymer Road for horse trailer can enjoy trails, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, River Rock (0.7 miles) parking. non-motorized boating and picnicking. There Sycamore Plains (2.2 miles) ACTIVITIES is even a doggie beach and dog-swimming There are two picnic areas plus a grill pad in the Biking area for your pet. The park features a natural woods. The Millstone Picnic Area has a large Horseback Riding play area around Beaver Lake. ACTIVITIES Biking, Boating, Canoeing/Kayaking shelter for family picnics and a play area for kids, Pets Picnicking Ashy sunflower, royal catchfly and other Cross-Country Skiing, Fishing featuring three large climbing boulders, with an Swings prairie flowers can be seen against a backdrop Horse Riding. Natural Play Area elevated boardwalk to provide ADA access to of big and little bluestem grasses. Northern Pets, Picnicking the top of one boulder. harriers, meadowlarks, coyote, jumping mice DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB and Henslow’s sparrow can be seen through- DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB Enjoy sitting in the big wooden chairs behind tiny.cc/mp-rky out the changing seasons. Metro Parks has tiny.cc/mp-pok the Millstone picnic shelter as you look for restored 800 acres of prairies at the park, wildlife in the open fields. HOURS & INFO using only seed representing the native plant HOURS & INFO 6:30am to dark species of the Darby Plains. 6:30am to dark Cell phone 614.595.9979 Cell phone 614.208.4321

20 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 21 SCIOTO AUDUBON Bob Zahller SCIOTO GROVE Virginia Gordon

Scioto Audubon is the only Park details Scioto Grove features mature Park details downtown Metro Park and ADDRESS forests and scenic bluffs ADDRESS 400 W Whittier St 5172 Jackson Pike features a 35-foot climbing wall Columbus OH 43215 The 620-acre park has more than seven miles Grove City OH 43123 of trails, two picnic areas with shelters, tables An old industrial site on the Scioto River has ACRES 120 and grills, a kids play area and several overlook ACRES 620 been transformed into a 120-acre park that decks. The park is located on a scenic bend of serves as a haven for wildlife and a place for ACTIVITIES the Scioto River and is a great destination for TRAILS the young at heart and urban professionals Biking canoeists, kayakers, anglers and people wanting Arrowhead (1.3 miles), Hickory (0.6 miles) interested in active recreation. Boating to see waterfowl and other wildlife. Dogs on Mingo (2.5 miles), Overlook (1.7 miles) Canoeing/Kayaking leashes are welcome throughout the park, REI River (1.2 miles) The climbing wall covers 7,000 square feet and Fishing which also features a sledding hill. features bouldering, top rope and lead climbing. Obstacle Course ACTIVITIES There are four auto belays, but climbers must Pets A 3D archery course (and a separate static or Archery bring their own climbing harness. Picnicking traditional archery course) makes the park the Backpacking Rock Climbing place to go for archery enthusiasts. Canoeing/Kayaking There is also a 9-station obstacle course that Drone Field features nine challenging stations, including a With support from outdoor retailer REI, we TRAILS Fishing tire run and flip, an eight-foot wall, tunnel crawl, constructed a backpack trail along the river for Scioto Greenway (2 miles) Pets balance beams and monkey bars, cargo climb, those just getting into the sport, as well as those Hermit Thrush (0.1 miles) Sledding over/under, log run and belly crawl. Wetland (0.4 miles) seasoned backpackers who want a quick over- Connector Trails (2.5 miles) night without having to journey several hours. The area has been designated as an Important DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB Bird Area (IBA) by Audubon and Birdlife Interna- Backpacking is free and reservations can be tiny.cc/mp-sgr DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB made by calling 614.539.3339. Backpacking tional. More than 200 species of birds have been tiny.cc/mp-sio sighted within the IBA. available for reservation every other weekend HOURS & INFO from mid-April to the end of Ocober. 6:30am to 10pm April to September HOURS & INFO Fishing and boating are available on the river 6:30am to 8pm October to March 6:30am to 10pm April to September For information on the park’s rental facilities go and the park also features a 2.5-acre dog park Cell phone 614.949.1078 6:30am to 8pm October to March to metroparks.net or phone 614.508.8111. and a quarter-acre butterfly garden. Cell phone 614.202.5197

22 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 23 SHARON WOODS Allison Shaw SLATE RUN FARM & PARK Danielle Robbins

Sharon Woods features oak- Park details Slate Run Wetlands are the site Park details hickory, beech-maple and swamp ADDRESS of nesting sandhill cranes ADDRESS: 6911 Cleveland Ave 1375 SR674 North forests in its 761 acres Westerville OH 43081 A 156-acre wetland wildlife refuge features Canal Winchester OH 43110 Spring Hollow Lodge Lodge: a mosaic of restored marshes, meadows and The park includes seven miles of trails, with two 1069 W Main St, Westerville OH 43081 ponds. More than 150 species of birds have ACRES: 1,705 miles winding through the 320-acre Edward S been recorded here, including northern harriers, Thomas State Nature Preserve, named in honor ACRES 761 sandhill cranes, green herons and nesting TRAILS: of a renowned Ohio naturalist and one of Metro blue-winged teal. Bobolink (1.5 miles) Parks’ founding park board members. ACTIVITIES Camp Starview (2 miles) The park’s grassland area includes prairie Covered Bridge (0.5 miles) The park has eight species of oaks, some more Biking, Fishing, Natural Play Area grasses, cool-season grasses, hardwood forest Five Oaks (1.5 miles), Kokomo (1.5 miles) than 250 years old, plus large hickory, maple and Nature Preserve, Pets, Picnicking and remnant wooded fence rows and is one of Lake (0.4 miles) beech trees. Sledding the premier butterfly and birding sites in Central Sassafras (2.5 miles - horseriding only) The 11-acre Schrock Lake provides a scenic TRAILS Ohio. It is also home to savannah, grasshopper Shagbark (0.5 miles), Sugar Maple (1.4 miles) backdrop where you can enjoy the splashing of Edward S Thomas (1.1 miles) and Henslow’s sparrows, bobolinks, eastern waterfowl, glimpse a painted turtle sunning on Lake (0.4 miles) meadowlarks and other wildlife. The 14-acre ACTIVITIES: a rock or see a spectacular sunset. Catch and re- Oak Openings (0.2 miles) Buzzard’s Roost Lake is also a magnet for birds. Day Camps, Fishing, Horseback Riding lease fishing is allowed from the lake’s four docks. Spring Creek (1.8 miles) Natural Play Area, Pets, Picnicking Multipurpose (3.8 miles) Slate Run Living Historical Farm The park boasts a 7.5-acre natural play area Connector (0.3 miles) DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB: where you can wander off-trail, climb trees, The historical farm provides opportunities for tiny.cc/mp-slr dig in the mud and experience unstructured DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB visitors to compare farm work and family life of OR the 1880s with their lives today. play in nature. There are two sledding hills for tiny.cc/mp-shn tiny.cc/mp-srf winter fun. As you stroll through the gardens, barns and HOURS & INFO HOURS & INFO: For information on the park’s rental facilities go farmhouse, you will see the farm’s costumed 6:30am to 10pm April to September 6:30am to dark to metroparks.net or phone 614.508.8111. staff and volunteers going about their daily 6:30am to 8pm October to March chores. Pigs, geese, turkeys, sheep, Percheron Cell phone: 614.329.1392 Cell phone 614.315.5520 horses and other heirloom animals can be seen. Farm phone: 614.833.1880

24 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 25 THREE CREEKS Carey Sherrill WALNUT WOODS Mindi McConnell

Three Creeks is named for the Park details Walnut Woods is bordered by Park details confluence of Alum, Blacklick ADDRESS Walnut Creek and features ADDRESS 3860 Bixby Road 6716 Lithopolis Rd and Big Walnut creeks Groveport OH 43125 dramatic stands of pine trees Groveport OH 43125

Three Creeks is made up of five distinct areas ACRES 1,100 Walnut Woods includes restored wetlands that ACRES 1,098 connected through the Alum Creek Greenway provide habitat for waterfowl such as geese, Trail. Metro Parks operates the Confluence Trails TRAILS swans, mallards, wood ducks, mergansers TRAILS Alum Creek (24.5 miles) and Heron Pond areas and the City of Columbus and teals. Some of the wetlands dry out in Buckeye (2 miles) Blacklick Creek (16 miles) Recreation and Parks Department operates the summer and create a muddy habitat ideal Kestrel (1.3 miles) Bluebell (1 mile) Madison Mills, Smith Farms and Sycamore Fields for shorebirds and wading birds, such as Monarch (1.4 miles) Confluence (1mile) areas. This most creek-centric of Ohio’s parks is killdeer, Wilson’s snipe, greater and lesser Sweetgum (2.6 miles) the major hub in the Franklin County Green- Evergreen (0.5 miles) yellowlegs, bitterns, rails and various species ways program, an interconnected system of Heron Pond (0.6 miles) of sandpipers. ACTIVITIES: trails along the major streams in Central Ohio. Madison Mills (0.2 miles) Biking Sycamore Fields & Several vernal pools attract breeding amphib- Canoeing/Kayaking You can fish for bluegill, largemouth bass, Smith Farm trails (1.2 miles) ians in spring. There are numerous buckeye Fishing catfish and crappie in Heron and Turtle ponds, Turtle Pond (0.4 miles) trees alongside the creek, and long rows of old Pets and also fish in Alum, Big Walnut and Blacklick nursery trees, such as serviceberry, crab apple Picnicking creeks, home to over 25 species of fish. ACTIVITIES and red maples. The Tall Pines Area is noted Sledding More than 100 species of birds have been Biking, Canoeing/Kayaking, Fishing for pine and sweetgum trees. sighted in the park. The ponds on the west side Natural Play Area, Pets, Picnicking DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB of the park along the Alum Creek Greenway Trail There are two dog parks in the Buckeye Area, tiny.cc/mp-wal DETAILS & DIRECTIONS ON WEB provide seasonal wetlands for waterfowl and one for large dogs (20 pounds and over), and tiny.cc/mp-thc shore birds. another for small dogs. The 3-acre large dog HOURS & INFO park includes a separate fenced doggie swim- 6:30am to dark HOURS & INFO The Bluebell and Confluence trails feature ming pond, and a small shade shelter with a Cell phone 614.357.9375 enormous cottonwoods and sycamores and 6:30am to 10pm April to September picnic table. The 1-acre small dog park also produce one of the best displays of woodland 6:30am to 8pm October to March includes a shade shelter and picnic table. wildflowers in spring. Cell phone 614.208.2874

26 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 27 Battelle Darby Creek programs

PRESCHOOLERS: WATER BABIES Learn about amphibians, animals that APRIL metro parks programs spend their days as babies in the water! Nature Center COMPOSTING DISPLAY MAR 12 TUE 9:30 OR 11AM Stop by and view an interactive display March, April, May 2019 (advanced registration opens Feb 20) and learn how you can help the environ- ment by composting at home! FULL MOON HIKE Nature Center Take a brisk moonlit 4-mile hike through Ranger Station APR 6-20 SAT-SAT 9AM–7PM METRO FIVE-0 programs for ages 50 and older are color-coded by degree of difficulty: fields and forests. LEVEL 1 (easy, fully accessible) LEVEL 2 (slow pace, less than 1-mile hike) MAR 20 WED 7PM LEVEL 3 (up to 2-mile hike, moderate pace) LEVEL 4 (hike over two miles at strenuous pace) BISON Not a cow, not a buffalo, it’s a bison! Join PRESCHOOLERS: WATER BABIES us for a 1-mile hike as we learn about this Learn about amphibians, animals that 2,000-pound mammal. Nature Center spend their days as babies in the water! VERNAL POOL CELEBRATION APR 6 SAT 6PM BATTELLE DARBY CREEK Nature Center Celebrate some of our strangest and most MAR 22 FRI 11AM OR 1PM important wetlands and the creatures that PRESCHOOLERS: TRASH TO TREASURE live there. Displays from local organiza- Learn how you can use composting to tions and animals will be on exhibit. Take MARCH WOODCOCK WATCH turn everyday scraps into gardening gold! a hike with a naturalist to see an active Check out the woodcock’s aerial Nature Center vernal pool and discover what we catch in courtship dance. Ages 10 and older VERNAL POOL DISPLAY our traps. Nature Center Nature Center APR 9 TUE 9:30 OR 11AM See animals found in vernal pools and learn why they are important. Nature Center MAR 9 SAT 11AM–4PM MAR 24 SUN 7:30PM PHOTO GROUP: ENHANCED COLOR- MAR 2-10 SAT-SUN 9AM–5PM TO-BLACK & WHITE CONVERSION YOGA IN THE PARK TRIVIA NIGHT Learn new techniques that produce Learn movements in an outdoor setting Kick off your weekend with some Friday TYKE HIKE exceptionally high-quality, high-impact to help rejuvenate your mind and body. night trivia! Theme and team registration black and white images. Nature Center Bring your infants and toddlers out for Ranger Station info can be found on the Battelle Darby some nature themed developmental Creek Facebook page. Nature Center APR 13 SAT 10AM activities followed by a short walk! MAR 9 SAT 11:30AM Ages 4 and younger Ranger Station MAR 29 FRI 7–9PM YOGA IN THE PARK MAR 6 WED 10AM METRO FIVE-0: Level 2 BISON Learn movements in an outdoor setting Not a cow, not a buffalo, it’s a bison! Join WILD TEAS to help rejuvenate your mind and body. us for a 1-mile hike as we learn about this Learn how to identify wild plants that Ranger Station PHOTO GROUP: ENRICH YOUR 2,000-pound mammal. Ages 50 and older make great teas and try some samples. PHOTOS USING COLOR THEORY Nature Center Nature Center APR 13 SAT 11:30AM Learn traditional color theory to improve your photo composition and digital color MAR 10 SUN 1PM MAR 31 SUN 1PM theory to improve their look on hi-res displays and photo prints. Nature Center MAR 9 SAT 10AM

28 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 29 Battelle Darby Creek programs Battelle Darby Creek & Blacklick Woods programs

COFFEE AND COMPOSTING YOGA IN THE PARK PRESCHOOLERS: FLOWER POWER Join us for a cup o’ Joe while you learn MAY Learn movements in an outdoor setting Ready, set, grow! Learn about plants and about the process of composting and the to help rejuvenate your mind and body. how they grow. Plant one for yourself to different ways that you can set up your MARVELOUS METABOLISMS Ranger Station take home! Nature Center own composting system. Nature Center Come and view an interactive display MAY 11 SAT 11:30AM MAY 31 FRI 11AM OR 1PM APR 14 SUN 1PM about natural patterns of fasting in wildlife as well as the metabolic benefits. Animals featured! PRESCHOOLERS: FLOWER POWER BLACKLICK WOODS FULL MOON HIKE Nature Center Ready, set, grow! Learn about plants and Take a brisk moonlit 4-mile hike through how they grow. Plant one for yourself to fields and forests.Ranger Station MAY 4-10 SAT-FRI 9AM–7PM take home! Nature Center APR 19 FRI 8PM MAY 14 TUE 9:30 OR 11AM MARCH BISON Not a cow, not a buffalo, it’s a bison! Join EARTH DAY FESTIVAL us for a 1-mile hike as we learn about this WARBLER WALK MORNING COFFEE Celebrate our planet with a variety of 2,000-pound mammal. Nature Center Join us on a 2-mile hike as we search for AND WILDLIFE WATCH family-friendly activities and service op- warblers. Ages 14 and older View animals through the nature center portunities. More details can be found on MAY 4 SAT 1PM Indian Ridge windows and enjoy a cup of coffee. the Battelle Darby Creek Facebook page. Nature Center MAY 18 SAT 8AM Nature Center WARBLER WALK MAR 2 SAT 8–10AM APR 20 SAT 10AM–4PM Join us on a 2-mile hike and search for warblers. Ages 14 and older HONEYBEE DISPLAY Indian Ridge Learn about honeybees, their important KINDNESS ROCKS PRESCHOOLERS: TRASH TO TREASURE role in pollination and how farmers care Help spread kindness through the world Learn how you can use composting to MAY 11 SAT 8AM for their own hives. Nature Center by decorating rocks and hiding them for turn everyday scraps into gardening gold! someone else to find.Nature Center MAY 18-24 SAT-SUN 10AM–6PM Nature Center PHOTO GROUP: IMAGE REVIEW MAR 3 SUN 3PM APR 26 FRI 11AM OR 1PM Attendees are invited to share their pho- tos and receive constructive feedback. FULL MOON HIKE All skill levels. Nature Center Take a brisk moonlit 4-mile hike through NATURE BABIES WILD EDIBLES fields and forests.Ranger Station Enjoy stories about nature and learn some Learn how to identify wild edible plants MAY 11 SAT 10AM nature signs in American Sign Language MAY 18 SAT 8PM and how you can create some delicious to practice. Ages 2 and younger dishes with them. Nature Center BABY ANIMAL DISPLAY Nature Center REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS APR 27 SAT 11AM Learn about baby animals found inside MAR 4 MON 10AM the park and how they are cared for, FROM AROUND THE WORLD plus what to do if you find an animal See and touch these cold-blooded WILDLIFE SEARCH infant without its mother. animals, both native and exotic. METRO FIVE-0: Level 2 Use radio telemetry to find a wild animal Nature Center Nature Center TIMBERDOODLE TANGO that we have been tracking through the Search for the male woodcock as he MAY 25-27 SAT-MON 10AM–6PM park. Ages 6 and older Indian Ridge MAY 11-17 SAT-FRI 10AM–6PM performs his aerial courtship display. Ages 50 and older Nature Center APR 28 SUN 1PM MAR 6 WED 7PM

30 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 31 Blacklick Woods programs Blacklick Woods programs

WOODCOCK WALK SCOUT DAY: PRESCHOOLERS: HUMMINGBIRDS Search for the male woodcock as he BROWNIES WOW JOURNEY APRIL Learn about the lives of these fascinating performs his aerial courtship display. Brownies (2nd & 3rd Grade) will partici- flyers through stories, activities and crafts. Nature Center pate in five activities that are part of the STORY TIME Beech Maple Lodge “WOW” journey. Advanced registration MAR 8 FRI 7PM Learn about nature through stories and APR 10 WED 10AM OR 1PM MAR 23 SAT & 20122200 activities. Ages 2-5 Nature Center POND LIFE DISPLAY APR 1 MON 10AM FUNGUS DISPLAY Learn about the creatures of Ohio pond TOTS ON THE TRAILS Learn what fungus can be found in the ecosystems and the various roles they Share a slow-paced half-mile walk with FAMILY-FRIENDLY LANTERN HIKE park, as well as history and uses for this play. Nature Center your toddler and discover nature together. Take a 1.5-mile lantern-lit hike through the diverse group. Nature Center Ages 1-4 Nature Center MAR 9-10 SAT-SUN 8AM–6PM forest. Nature Center APR 13-14 SAT-SUN 8AM–8PM MAR 29 FRI 10AM APR 5 FRI 9PM SALAMANDER SEARCH STOP, HUMMER TIME Explore the trails while looking for this WILDFLOWER DISPLAY MORNING COFFEE Learn about the life history of humming- elusive amphibian. Nature Center View our display about Ohio’s beautiful AND WILDLIFE WATCH birds, as well as tips to attract them to wildflowers.Nature Center your yard. Ages 16 and older MAR 10 SUN 2PM View animals through the nature center MAR 30-31 SAT-SUN 8AM–6PM windows and enjoy a cup of coffee. Nature Center Nature Center APR 14 SUN 2PM PRESCHOOLERS: POND LIFE Learn about the life inside a pond through A WALK IN THE PARK APR 6 SAT 8–10AM stories, activities and crafts. Nature Center Celebrate Take a Walk in the Park Day AFTER SCHOOL: with a 2-mile hike. Nature Center ARCHERY & ATLATLS MAR 13 WED 10AM OR 1PM CUB SCOUTS: TIGERS Learn to shoot a compound bow and MAR 30 SAT 1PM —MY TIGER JUNGLE Work on requirements toward earning this try something more primitive, an atlatl. BUZZ ABOUT BUZZARDS Tiger achievement Advanced registration Ages 8-15 Sassafras Turkey vultures are back! Learn what the GIRL SCOUTS: JUNIORS-HABITATS & APR 17 WED 3–5PM Buzzard Day buzz is about. Nature Center Girls will participate in activities toward APRIL 6 SAT 20222202 earning the Habitats Badge. Advanced MAR 15 FRI 2PM registration NATURE SCHOOL: WILDFLOWERS EGGSPERIMENTS Try some eggcellent eggsperiments. MAR 30 SAT & 20222201 Learn tips and tricks for identifying ST. PATRICK’S DAY SCAVENGER HUNT different types of wildflowers. Nature Center Search for green things hidden in the Nature Center APR 20 SAT 1–4PM park. Nature Center YOU CAN EAT THAT Take a short walk to explore what wild APR 7 SUN 2PM MAR 17 SUN 12–4PM edible plants are available in the spring NATURE TRAM and try some samples. Nature Center METRO FIVE-0: Level 1 Take a tram ride through the park. HOMESCHOOLERS: POND LIFE MAR 31 SUN 2PM DRAW A BIRD Ash Grove Picnic Area Learn about pond ecology and the life Sketch some birds on Draw a Picture APR 21 SUN 2PM cycles of some of the organisms in the of a Bird Day. Materials provided. pond. Ages 6-12 Nature Center Ages 50 and older Nature Center MAR 18 MON 10AM OR 1PM APR 8 MON 6PM

32 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 33 Blacklick Woods programs Blacklick Woods programs

METRO FIVE-0: Level 2 NATURE BABIES METRO FIVE-0: Level 3 WILDFLOWER WALK MAY Enjoy stories about nature and learn some WALK & WONDER Take a 1-mile walk to look for spring nature signs in American Sign Language Explore Adena culture on a 2-mile walk blooms on the trails. Ages 50 and older BE A NATURALIST! to practice. Ages 2 and younger out to the Blacklick Circle. Ages 50 and Nature Center If you enjoy spending time outside and Nature Center older Nature Center APR 25 THU 3PM learning about local plants and wildlife, MAY 6 MON 10AM MAY 15 WED 3PM come and find out what it is like to Be a Naturalist! Nature Center TOTS ON THE TRAILS PRESCHOOLERS: TINY TRAVELER ENDANGERED OHIOANS DISPLAY Share a slow-paced half-mile walk MAY 1 WED 7PM SERIES—TROPICAL RAINFOREST View our display to learn which plants and with your toddler and discover Discover the unique wildlife that make up animals are endangered in Ohio and why. nature together. Ages 1-4 METRO PARKS AND COSI’S this special area through discussion, books Nature Center Nature Center and activities. Beech Maple Lodge CITYWIDE STAR PARTIES: MAY 17-19 FRI-SUN 8AM–8PM APR 26 FRI 10AM CREATURES OF THE NIGHT MAY 8 WED 10AM OR 1PM Join Metro Parks, COSI and Ohio Wildlife Center for an evening of stargazing, meet DOG WALK TREE ID DISPLAY animals and learn more about creatures EVENING TRAM RIDE Bring your furry friend for a 2-mile walk. Come out to learn about some of our of the night as we look up to the night sky Enjoy a tram ride through the park just Nature Center common trees and how to identify them. before sunset. Ash Grove Picnic Area and see what’s out there! MAY 18 SAT 10AM Nature Center Nature Center MAY 10 FRI 8PM APR 27-28 SAT-SUN 8AM–8PM MAY 3 FRI 7–10PM SUNDAY IN THE SWAMP MIGRATION MANIA Scoop up slimy critters from a buttonbush SPRING WILDFLOWER WALK MORNING COFFEE Take a 2-mile hike through the forest to swamp. Nature Center Take a 1-mile walk to search the forest for search the trails for migrating songbirds. AND WILDLIFE WATCH MAY 19 SUN 1–3PM spring blooms. View animals through the nature center Nature Center Nature Center windows and enjoy a cup of coffee. MAY 11 SAT 10AM–12PM STORY TIME APR 28 SUN 2PM Nature Center Learn about nature through stories and MAY 4 SAT 8–10AM MOTHER’S DAY TRAM RIDE activities. Ages 2-5 Nature Center HOMESCHOOLERS: Enjoy a tram ride through the park. MAY 20 MON 10AM THE KEY TO IT ALL WARBLER WALK Ash Grove Picnic Area Learn how plants and animals are classi- Wake up with the birds to search the MAY 12 SUN 2PM fied through activities and a craft. trails for warblers. Nature Center TURTLE TIME Ages 6-12 Celebrate World Turtle Day by meeting Beech Maple Lodge MAY 5 SUN 8–10AM HOMESCHOOLERS: the nature center turtles. Ages 6-12 ENDANGERED SPECIES Nature Center APR 29 MON 10AM OR 1PM Learn which animals are endangered in SUNDAY IN THE SWAMP MAY 23 THU 10AM OR 1PM Scoop up slimy critters from a buttonbush Ohio and the reasons why, through swamp. Nature Center activities and discussion. Ages 6-12 Beech Maple Lodge MAY 5 SUN 1–3PM MAY 13 MON 10AM OR 1PM

34 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 35 Blacklick Woods / Blendon Woods programs Blendon Woods programs

CENTIPEDES & MILLIPEDES AFTER SCHOOL SNACKS JUST FOR KIDS: COCOA AND BIRDS KRATTS & KRAFTS Learn how to find and identify these Join the naturalist in feeding our ambassa- Enjoy a warm cup by the nature center Enjoy an episode of Wild Kratts and make many-legged insect relatives. Nature Center dor animals some tasty treats! Nature Center window as we provide some special a craft to take home! Ages 3 and older treats for our hungry winter residents. Nature Center MAY 25 SAT 2PM MAR 4 MON 4PM Ages 4-15 MAR 25 MON 1PM Nature Center SUNDAY IN THE SWAMP 2/4/6 FITNESS HIKE MAR 17 SUN 1–3PM Scoop up slimy critters from a buttonbush Take an invigorating, fast-paced hike RELAXING YOGA swamp. Nature Center along gravel and natural surface trails; Let the stress of the day melt away with an choose 2, 4 or 6 miles. Pace will be under WOODCOCK WATCH hour of outdoor yoga. Bring a towel MAY 26 SUN 1–3PM 20 minutes per mile. Ages 14 and older Learn about these fascinating birds and or mat. Follow park signs for location Nature Center view their awesome mating flight. MAR 25 MON 6:30PM ART IN THE PARK: NATURE PAINTING MAR 9 SAT 9–11AM Natural Play Area Shelter Learn how to paint a simple scene inspired MAR 17 SUN 7PM by spring. Materials provided. Nature Center SPRING BREAK PUPPET SHOW ORPHANED/INJURED Join the Blendon Woods Puppets for a MAY 27 MON 7PM WILDLIFE DISPLAY PRESCHOOL: springtime story. Ages 3 and older Discover when animals need human help FIRST DAY OF SPRING FLING Nature Center TOTS ON THE TRAILS and when to leave them alone. Come celebrate the season through MAR 28-29 THU-FRI 10AM OR 1PM Share a slow-paced half-mile walk with Nature Center activities, crafts, songs and a story! your toddler and discover nature together. MAR 9 SAT 9AM–4PM Nature Center Ages 1-4 Nature Center BEGINNING BIRDING MAR 20 WED 9:30AM, 11AM, 1PM Look for early spring birds on a relaxed MAY 31 FRI 10AM MAR 21 THU 9:30AM, 11AM, 1PM OHIO WILDLIFE CENTER: 1-mile hike. Ages 6 and older I FOUND A BABY. NOW WHAT? Nature Center Learn what to do when you find wildlife 2/4/6 FITNESS HIKE MAR 31 SUN 9AM that might need help. Animals will be visit- Take an invigorating, fast-paced hike BLENDON WOODS ing for the presentation! Nature Center along gravel and natural surface trails; choose 2, 4 or 6 miles. Pace will be under MAR 9 SAT 2PM 20 minutes per mile. APRIL MARCH Ages 14 and older TREE MYTHS Nature Center AFTER SCHOOL SNACKS Learn about myths of old on a 2-mile hike. MAR 23 SAT 9–11AM Join the naturalist in feeding our FIRST FRIDAY STORYTIME Nature Center Join us as we read books focused on ani- ambassador animals some tasty treats! MAR 16 SAT 10AM Nature Center mals and nature! Ages 2-6 Nature Center SPRING BIRDS: WOODPECKERS MAR 1 FRI 10AM Enjoy a 2-mile hike on woodland trails to APR 1 MON 4PM COFFEE AND BIRDS see and hear these beautiful birds. Enjoy a warm cup by the nature center Nature Center SPRING BIRDS window as we provide some special treats FIRST FRIDAY STORYTIME Search for early spring migrants and resi- for our hungry winter residents and early MAR 23 SAT 10AM Join us as we read books focused dent species on a 1-mile hike. Nature Center migrants. Ages 16 and older on animals and nature! Ages 2-6 Nature Center MAR 3 SUN 9AM Nature Center MAR 17 SUN 9–11AM APR 5 FRI 10AM

36 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 37 Blendon Woods programs Blendon Woods programs

2/4/6 FITNESS HIKE WILDFLOWER HIKE RELAXING YOGA GOT WOODPECKERS? Take an invigorating, fast-paced hike Take a 2-mile walk to see beautiful Let the stress of the day melt away with Take an off-trail hike in the new Blendon along gravel and natural surface trails; blooms. Nature Center an hour of outdoor yoga. Bring a towel or Ravines to search for six species of resi- choose 2, 4 or 6 miles. Pace will be under mat. Follow park signs for location. dent woodpeckers. Meet at 5280 Cambria APR 14 SUN 2PM 20 minutes per mile. Ages 14 and older Nature Center Way, Westerville 43081. Park along the Nature Center road. Ages 6 and older Blendon Ravines APR 22 MON 6:30PM METRO FIVE-0: Level 4 APR 6 SAT 9–11AM MAY 4 SAT 12PM PARK TOUR: BLENDON RAVINES Join Metro Parks’ Director Tim Moloney HOMESCHOOL: SALAMANDERS WILDFLOWER WANDER for a hike on the newly acquired area near Learn more about these fascinating SPRING BIRDS: WARBLERS Take a 1.5-mile off-trail hike in the new Blendon Woods. This is a very rugged, amphibians! Ages 6 and older Search for migrating birds on a 1.5-mile Blendon Ravines park property in search off-trail hike. Be prepared to climb up and Nature Center hike. Nature Center of spring wildflowers. Meet at 5280 Cam- down steep hills and ravines. APR 25 THU 10AM MAY 5 SUN 8AM bria Way, Westerville 43081. Park along the Ages 50 and older Blendon Ravines APR 26 FRI 1PM road. Blendon Ravines APR 16 TUE 10AM–12PM GEOLOGY HIKE APR 6 SAT 2PM 2/4/6 FITNESS HIKE Take a 1.5-mile hike along the Ripple Rock EGG DISPLAY Take an invigorating, fast-paced hike Trail to explore some local geologic SPRING BIRDS: WATERFOWL Explore the stunning array of bird egg along gravel and natural surface trails; features. Nature Center Enjoy an early morning hike to Thoreau sizes and colors. Nature Center choose 2, 4 or 6 miles. Pace will be under MAY 5 SUN 1PM Lake for some great waterfowl watching. 20 minutes per mile. Ages 14 and older APR 17-21 WED-SUN 1–4PM Nature Center Nature Center AFTER SCHOOL SNACKS APR 7 SUN 9AM APR 27 SAT 9–11AM PRESCHOOL: WORMOLOGY Join the naturalist in feeding our Plan to get a little dirty as we dig into the ambassador animals some tasty treats! 2/4/6 FITNESS HIKE lives of worms and other soil creatures. Nature Center Take an invigorating, fast-paced hike Nature Center MAY MAY 6 MON 4PM along gravel and natural surface trails; APR 18 THU 9:30AM, 11AM, 1PM choose 2, 4 or 6 miles. Pace will be under APR 19 FRI 9:30AM, 11AM, 1PM 20 minutes per mile. Ages 14 and older FIRST FRIDAY STORYTIME 2/4/6 FITNESS HIKE Join us as we read books focused on ani- Nature Center Take an invigorating, fast-paced hike mals and nature! Ages 2-6 APR 9 TUE 6–8PM METRO FIVE-0: Level 3 EGG HUNT! along gravel and natural surface trails; Take a 1.5-mile hike through the woods Nature Center choose 2, 4 or 6 miles. Pace will be under as we hunt for eggs and nests! MAY 3 FRI 10AM 20 minutes per mile. Ages 14 and older EARTH DAY CLEANUP Ages 50 and older Nature Center Nature Center Help pull invasive plants and pick up litter on- and off-trail. Register at APR 20 SAT 2PM 2/4/6 FITNESS HIKE MAY 7 TUE 6–8PM www.earthdaycolumbus.org Nature Center Take an invigorating, fast-paced hike along gravel and natural surface trails; APR 13 SAT 10AM KRATTS & KRAFTS EVENING WILDLIFE WATCH choose 2, 4 or 6 miles. Pace will be under Enjoy an episode of Wild Kratts and make Hike out to Thoreau Lake to view animal 20 minutes per mile. Ages 14 and older a craft to take home! Ages 3 and older activity at night. Nature Center USES OF PLANTS Nature Center Nature Center Learn how Native Americans used various MAY 10 FRI 8PM MAY 4 SAT 9–11AM plants on a 2-mile hike. Nature Center APR 22 MON 1PM APR 13 SAT 2PM

38 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 39 Blendon Woods programs Clear Creek & Glacier Ridge programs

INTERNATIONAL PRESCHOOL: FROGGY FUN BACKCOUNTRY BIRDING CLEAR CREEK MIGRATORY BIRD DAY Discover these awesome amphibians as Look and listen for spring migrants on a Join us for crafts and games in celebration we try to catch some tadpoles! 2-mile backcountry hike. of the incredible journey made by Blendon Woods Group Shelter Ages 10 and older Park Office birds each spring. MAY 22 WED 9:30AM, 11AM, 1PM MARCH APR 28 SUN 8:30–10:30AM Nature Center MAY 23 THU 9:30AM, 11AM, 1PM MAY 11 SAT 1–4PM METRO FIVE-0: Level 4 BIRD SONGS BACKCOUNTRY HIKE MAY MOTHER’S DAY GARDEN ADVENTURE Use your ears to identify birds on a Enjoy views of black hand sandstone and Help us plant our vegetable and 1.5-mile hike. Nature Center hemlock trees on a rugged 4-mile back- WILDFLOWER HIKE pollinator garden, then be sure to MAY 26 SUN 8AM country hike to Stone Fence Hill. Search for spring blooms on a 1.5-mile stop by all summer to help it grow! Nature Ages 50 and older hike along the Cemetery Ridge Trail. Center Park Office Creekside Meadows KIDS POND STUDY MAY 12 SUN 12:30–2PM MAY 4 SAT 10–11:30AM Take a 1.5-mile off-trail hike to the back MAR 14 THU 10AM–1PM side of the lake where we will do a SPRING CREEKIN’ pond study. Ages 6-12 STONE FENCE HILL HIKE OVERNIGHT BACKPACKING TRIP Take a rugged 1.5-mile off-trail hike Advance registration Take a rugged 4-mile backcountry hike Guided overnight backpacking trip through the new Blendon Ravines park MAY 26 SUN & 20250302 to Stone Fence Hill. Enjoy views of black through moderate to strenuous terrain. property to explore the creek. Meet at hand sandstone and hemlock trees along Expect to hike 4 to 6 miles while carry- 5280 Cambria Way, Westerville 43081. Park the way. Park Office ing your equipment. Ages 18 and older along the road. Ages 6 and older MEMORIAL DAY CELEBRATION Advance registration MAR 16 SAT 10AM–1PM Blendon Ravines Cook a hot dog, play yard games, MAY 25 SAT & 20961400 splash in the creek and join the MAY 18 SAT 2–3:30PM naturalist for a 1.5-mile hike! Nature Center APRIL GLACIER RIDGE RELAXING YOGA MAY 27 MON 11AM–2PM Let the stress of the day melt away with an hour of outdoor yoga. Bring a towel or SALAMANDER SHUFFLE Search for salamanders on a rugged mat. Follow park signs for location HOMESCHOOL: MARCH A-MAZE-ING MAMMALS 2-mile off-trail hike to a forested stream. MAY 20 MON 6:30PM Learn about mammal skull and pelt fea- Ages 8 and older Advance registration WALK AND WOOF tures with our fun maze. Ages 6 and older APR 20 SAT & 20950901 Enjoy a 2.5-mile hike with your dog. 2/4/6 FITNESS HIKE Blendon Woods Group Shelter Take an invigorating, fast-paced hike Glacier Ridge Dog Park MAY 29 WED 10AM along gravel and natural surface trails; METRO FIVE-0: Level 3 MAR 3 SUN 3PM MAY 30 THU 1PM choose 2, 4 or 6 miles. Pace will be under BACKCOUNTRY BIRDING 20 minutes per mile. Ages 14 and older Look and listen for spring migrants FOR FAMILIES: SALAMANDERS Nature Center on a 2-mile backcountry hike. Ages 50 and older Park Office Take a 1-mile hike and search for these MAY 21 TUE 6–8PM amphibians in the vernal pools. APR 25 THU 8:30–10:30AM Shelter House MAR 16 SAT 2PM

40 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 41 Glacier Ridge programs Glacier Ridge & Highbanks programs

FOR ADULTS: WALK AND WOOF EVENING BIKE RIDE FOR ADULTS: SALAMANDER HIKE VERNAL POOL MONITORING Enjoy a 2.5-mile hike with your dog. Take an 8.5-mile ride through grasslands Hike 3 miles to the vernal pool to learn Take a 1-mile hike to the vernal pools. Glacier Ridge Dog Park and forests as we search for wildlife. more about the secretive lives of Help to collect data and look for Ages 8 and older Shelter House salamanders. Ages 18 and older APR 17 WED 7PM salamanders. Ages 18 and older Nature Center MAY 17 FRI 7:30PM Shelter House PRESCHOOLERS: LOVE THE EARTH MAR 8 FRI 10AM–12PM MAR 17 SUN 2PM Celebrate Earth Day with activities includ- SCOUT DAY: BEARS, FURS, ing planting a flower.Shelter House FEATHERS AND FERNS EAGLE WALK Hike 3 miles and look for bald eagles FOR KIDS: APR 24 WED 10AM OR 1PM Work on requirements toward earning FIRST SIGNS OF SPRING HIKE this Bear Cub achievement. in their nest. Ages 8 and older Take a 1-mile hike and look for signs Advanced registration Nature Center that spring is here. Ages 5-12 OFF-TRAIL FROGGY HIKE MAY 19 SUN & 21522200 MAR 10 SUN 2–4PM Shelter House Take a 1-mile hike in the wetland to search for frogs and toads. Ages 5 and older MAR 28 THU 10AM OR 1PM Wetland FOR FAMILIES: PRESCOOLERS: SALAMANDERS Learn about the secretive lives of these APR 27 SAT 8PM FARM LIFE IN THE 1880s Visit with animals from Slate Run Farm amphibians through crafts, stories APRIL and try some activities and games from and other activities. Nature Center MAY the past. Shelter House MAR 13 WED 9:30AM, 11AM, 1PM KIDS: GO FLY A KITE MAY 30 THU 11AM–1PM Celebrate National Kite Month by flying METRO PARKS AND COSI’S CITYWIDE GEOLOGY AND FOSSILS OF HIGHBANKS your kite with us. Kids can use one of our STAR PARTIES: ASTRONOMY EXPERTS Join geologists from the Ohio Geological kites and can make a kite to take home. Join Metro Parks, COSI and Columbus HIGHBANKS Survey for a talk and 2.6-mile rugged hike Ages 15 and younger Astronomical Society to learn more about through the ravines. Learn about the rocks Glacier Ridge Energy Center (at the windmill) stargazing from experts as we look up to and fossils of Highbanks, deposited during APR 8 MON 10AM OR 1PM the night sky and see what’s out there! the Devonian Period nearly 400 million Ages 17 and older MARCH years ago. Ages 8 and older Glacier Ridge Energy Center (at the windmill) METRO FIVE-0: Level 2 Advance registration WALK OF THE MONTH MAY 3 FRI 7–10PM CREATURE FEATURE: AMPHIBIANS MAR 16 SAT & 20450700 (2 sessions) Take a 1-mile walk to discover the sights Meet some of these cold-blooded animals and sounds of the season. ADULTS: WILDFLOWER WALK and learn what makes them special. Ages BEGINNER BIRD SERIES: Ages 50 and older Shelter House Take a 1-mile stroll and learn about the 3-10 Nature Center FEEDER AND WINTER BIRDS importance of native plants. APR 10 WED 11AM MAR 3 SUN 2PM Learn how to identify common feeder Ages 18 and older Shelter House birds and take a short hike to look and MAY 11 SAT 3PM WOODCOCK WATCH STORYTIME: SALAMANDERS listen for some other winter visitors. Ages 10 and older Nature Center Take a 1-mile hike and search for this Meet some of these secretive animals and fascinating bird as it performs its aerial WALK AND WOOF learn more about them through stories. MAR 17 SUN 2–4PM courtship dance. Shelter House Enjoy a 2.5-mile hike with your dog. Ages 2-6 Nature Center Glacier Ridge Dog Park APR 12 FRI 8PM MAR 4 MON 10–10:30AM MAY 15 WED 7PM

42 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 43 Highbanks programs Highbanks programs

HOWL AT THE MOON STORYTIME: FUNGUS Enjoy a 3.5-mile hike with your dog. APRIL Enjoy stories about fungi and then take a MAY Nature Center short hike to look for some. Ages 2-6 Nature Center MAR 17 SUN 6PM HOMESCHOOLERS: BIRDING ADULTS: WILDFLOWER WALK Learn the basics of how to identify birds. APR 15 MON 10–10:30AM Hike 1 mile along the Scenic River Trail and Ages 7 and older Nature Center search for wildflowers, like grape hyacinth FOR KIDS: WILDLIFE SEARCH and dutchman’s breeches. APR 3 WED 10AM Search for signs of wildlife on a short hike. BEGINNER BIRD HIKE SERIES: Ages 18 and older Big Meadows Picnic Area Ages 6-12 Nature Center EARLY MIGRANTS MAY 1 WED 10AM–12PM Build your birding skills by taking a MAR 20 WED 10–11AM EAGLE WALK Hike 3 miles and look for bald eagles 1.5-mile hike to look and listen for in their nest. Ages 8 and older songbirds. Ages 10 and older BROWNIES: BUGS WOODCOCK WATCH Nature Center Nature Center Brownie Girl Scouts will meet all re- Take a short hike to check out the quirements for the Brownie Bugs Badge. APR 19 FRI 10–11:30AM woodcock’s aerial courtship dance. APR 7 SUN 2–4PM Advanced registration Ages 10 and older Nature Center MAY 3 FRI & 20422200 HOWL AT THE MOON MAR 22 FRI 7:45PM PRESCHOOL: BIRDS Learn about feathered friends through Enjoy a 3.5-mile hike with your dog. CENTRAL OHIO FOLK FESTIVAL crafts, stories and other activities. Nature Center FOR KIDS: WELCOME Enjoy free daytime concerts, local jam Nature Center APR 19 FRI 8–10PM TO SPRING SCAVENGER HUNT group tent, folk dance and instruction, Stop by the nature center and complete APR 10 WED 11AM OR 1PM storytelling and children’s activities. Over a nature scavenger hunt to win a small APR 11 THU 9:30 OR 11AM FOR KIDS: 30 workshops (nominal fee/all levels of prize. Ages 3-12 Nature Center EARTHDAY SCAVENGER HUNT expertise) on everything from guitar, WOODCOCK WATCH Complete a nature scavenger hunt and banjo, fiddle to songwriting. Food trucks MAR 27 WED 10AM–12PM available on site. Take a short hike to check out the win a small prize. Ages 3-12 woodcock’s aerial courtship dance. Nature Center Don’t miss the Saturday night concert at CAMPFIRE & SMORES Ages 10 and older APR 22 MON 10AM–12PM 7pm featuring Telluride Bluegrass Festival Come enjoy s’mores around the campfire. Nature Center 2017 band contest winners: Sugar & Limited number of roasting sticks The Mint (Prescott, AZ) and nationally APR 13 SAT 8PM provided. Nature Center FOR ADULTS: FUNGUS HIKE acclaimed folk duo The Small Glories Hike 2.5 miles on the Dripping Rock Trail MAR 29 FRI 11AM–1PM (Winnipeg, CAN). Concert Tickets $15. FAMILY OVERNIGHT to learn how to identify mushrooms. Workshop registration and Saturday Camp out with us and try a family-friendly Ages 18 and older Nature Center night concert tickets via Eventbrite or on EGGSTRAVAGANZA “Amazing Race,” do a cookout over a bon- APR 26 FRI 10–11:30AM grounds. Learn about eggs through games and fire, go on a night hike and enjoy many Festival sponsored by Columbus Folk activities. Take a short hike on the Scenic more fun activities! Bring your own tent River Trail to find bird nests and treat FOR KIDS: AMPHIBIAN SEARCH Music Society along with Metro Parks and and camping gear to accommodate your WCBE 90.5FM. stations. Big Meadows Picnic Area whole family. Ages 5 and older Search for amphibians off-trail near the Olentangy river. Ages 6-12 More info at: www.columbusfolkmusicso- MAR 31 SUN 1–4PM Advance registration Big Meadows Picnic Area ciety.org, including Eventbrite link. APR 13 SAT & 20452002 Big Meadows Picnic Area APR 28 SUN 2PM MAY 4 SAT 10:30AM–6PM MAY 5 SUN 10:30AM–5:30PM

44 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 45 Highbanks programs Homestead programs

WARBLER WATCH STORYTIME: BABY BIRDS HOMESTEAD Take a 3-mile hike in search of colorful Enjoy stories about infant feathered MAY migrating birds. Ages 10 and older friends and see some bird nests. Ages 2-6 Nature Center Nature Center NATURE SCAVENGER HUNT MAY 4 SAT 8–10AM MAY 20 MON 10–10:30AM MARCH Search for signs of wildlife. Once you find all the items, turn in your list for a prize! Ages 4-10 Nature Center PRESCHOOL: FLOWER FUN LUNCHTIME CHAT: BEEKEEPING STORY TIME MAY 4 SAT 12–2PM Learn about flowers through stories Pack your lunch and learn more about Listen to stories and meet an animal fea- and crafts and take a short walk to beekeeping. Ages 18 and older tured in the tale. Ages 2-6 Nature Center look for flowers in bloom. Nature Center MAR 7 THU 10AM, 11AM, 1PM FOR KIDS: NATURE CRAFTS Nature Center MAY 23 THU 12PM Create easy crafts featuring supplies found MAY 9 THU 11AM OR 1PM in nature. Ages 4-10 Lakeside Pavilion SPRING SCAVENGER HUNT MAY 10 FRI 9:30 OR 11AM MAY 7 TUE 10AM OR 1PM FAMILY FUN NIGHT Pick up a clipboard and go outside to find Come make s’mores around the campfire signs of animals getting ready for spring. EAGLE WALK and learn about nature at night through Return your list to earn a prize. MOTHER’S DAY IN THE PARK Hike 3 miles and look for bald eagles crafts and activities. Nature Center Ages 4-10 Nature Center Enjoy quality time with your mom as you in their nest. Ages 8 and older MAY 25 SAT 7–9PM MAR 26 TUE 12–2PM make crafts together and complete a Nature Center MAR 29 FRI 12–2PM scavenger hunt. Nature Center MAY 11 SAT 2–4PM FISHING WITH THE RANGERS MAY 12 SUN 12–2PM Try your hand at catching fish in the pond. ADULTS: WILDFLOWER WALK Poles and bait provided. Ages 6-17 APRIL MEET THE ANIMALS Search for wildflowers on a 2-mile hike on Dragonfly Day Camp Stop by the nature center and get the Coyote Run Trail. Ages 18 and older acquainted with our education animals. MAY 26 SUN 2–4PM FOR KIDS: GO FLY A KITE Nature Center Ages 2-10 Nature Center Celebrate National Kite Month by flying MAY 17 FRI 10AM–12PM CREATURE FEATURE: REPTILES your kite with us. Kids can use one of our MAY 25 SAT 1 OR 2PM Visit with turtles and snakes and learn kites and make a kite to take home. Ages 15 and younger Nature Center OFF-TRAIL MIGRATION MADNESS how we take care of these animals. NATURE HIKE Wander 3 miles off-trail to look for migrat- Nature Center APR 19 FRI 10AM OR 1PM Take a 1-mile walk to learn about animals ing songbirds. Ages 10 and older MAY 27 MON 2–2:30PM that live in the park. Nature Center Advance registration PRESCHOOLERS: LOVE THE EARTH MAY 26 SUN 3PM MAY 18 SAT & 20430501 FOR FAMILIES: GO CREEKING Celebrate Earth Day with activities includ- ing planting a flower.Nature Center Explore the Olentangy River looking for MEMORIAL DAY SCAVENGER HUNT HOWL AT THE MOON water animals. Ages 3-15 APR 22 MON 10AM OR 1PM Find items around the park related to the Enjoy a 3.5-mile hike with your dog. Big Meadows Picnic Area holiday. Turn in your scavenger hunt for a Nature Center prize. Ages 4-10 Nature Center MAY 31 FRI 10AM OR 1PM CAMPFIRE & S’MORES MAY 18 SAT 8–10PM Make s’more around the campfire or bring MAY 27 MON 12–2PM your own food to cook. Nature Center APR 28 SUN 2PM

46 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 47 Inniswood programs Inniswood programs

GROWING DAHLIAS GARDENING WITH HERBS: Part 1 HERB SOCIETY INNISWOOD Learn how to start and maintain your Join members of the Central Ohio Herb Join members of the Herb Society of dahlia tubers with members of the Greater Society as they discuss and demonstrate America, Central Ohio Unit for their public Columbus Dahlia Society. Innis House herbal history, herb family characteristics meeting and program. Ages 18 and older SUNNY SUNDAYS and use, cultural needs for plant health Innis House EVERY SUNDAY, 1:30-3:30PM MAR 10 SUN 2–4PM and propagation techniques. Plant a few STARTING MAY 5 APR 10 WED 7PM seeds to take home. Ages 18 and older Meet members of the Herb Society of MEET THE ARTISTS Advance registration America, Central Ohio Unit and ask them Join Judi McGee and Michael K. Rayer at JUNIOR GARDEN VOLUNTEERS MAR 31 SUN & 20831810 questions. Herb Garden a reception and view their watercolor art. Join us as we help prepare the gardens for Innis House spring. Ages 11-17 Advance registration MARCH MAR 17 SUN 2–4PM APRIL APR 13 SAT & 20821806 MEET THE ARTIST GARDENING FOR A View the pressed flower artwork of Anto- METRO FIVE-0: Level 2 GREENER WORLD: COMPOSTING GARDENING FOR A GREENER WORLD: BUILD YOUR BEST CONTAINER nia Bojanina at a reception. Innis House GARDEN BEES WORKSHOP Benefit the planet and your garden as we Learn how to set up your best container Create a bee house for your garden while learn the basics of composting. APR 14 SUN 2–4PM and how growing plants in containers can you learn about the non-aggressive Ages 18 and older Advance registration mason bee and their beneficial role in the benefit our planet. EVENING GARDEN WALK landscape. Ages 50 and older MAR 19 TUE & 20831808 Ages 18 and older Advance registration Join us for a relaxing stroll through the Advance registration APR 2 TUE & 20831811 gardens. Gardens Entrance MAR 3 SUN & 20841201 BUTTERFLIES TO TREES: SPRING FLING 2019 APR 14 SUN 6PM PRESCHOOL IN THE GARDEN: Get ready for spring with two OSU Exten- MUDDY PIES GARDENING FOR A sion garden experts. Joe Boggs discusses SCOUT DAY: JUNIORS FLOWERS Make mud pies and more as we get GREENER WORLD: STARTING SEEDS how butterfly gardens can attract more Participate in flower-friendly activities that hands-on with dirt. Discover what type of Benefit the planet and your garden as we than just butterflies. Jim Chatfield pres- will lead to earning the Flowers badge. soil best helps your garden grow. get to know easy to germinate ents the Ten Trees You Should Know. Advance registration seeds. Ages 18 and older Advance registration Fee $15 for Inniswood Garden Society APR 20 SAT & 20821812 Advance registration & Members and $20 for non-members. To APR 3 WED 20811904 (3 sessions) MAR 5 TUE & 20831807 register call 614.895.6216. WILDFLOWER WALK Ages 18 and older Innis House GARDENING WITH HERBS: Part 2 Learn how to identify common PRESCHOOL IN THE GARDEN: MAR 24 SUN 2–4PM Join members of the Central Ohio Herb wildflowers on a walk with an educator. SOUNDS OF SPRING Society as they discuss basic herb garden Gardens Entrance Join us in the gardens as we listen for design and bed preparation. Learn about APR 20 SAT 2PM sounds of the season. Discover who is call- GARDEN SCHOOL: WETLANDS choosing, planting and harvesting herbs. ing this time of year and practice listening Prepare to be wowed while discovering Make herbal vinegar to take home. the way animals do. Advance registration the many wonders of Ohio’s wetlands Ages 18 and older Advance registration METRO FIVE-0: Level 2 through hands-on activities and a sweet WILDFLOWER WALK & APR 7 SUN & 20831812 MAR 6 WED 20811903 (3 sessions) treat. Ages 6-10 Advance registration Learn how to identify common wildflow- MAR 29 FRI & 20821802 ers on a walk with an educator. Ages 50 and older Gardens Entrance APR 23 TUE 10AM

48 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 49 Inniswood & Prairie Oaks programs Prairie Oaks & Rocky Fork programs

CHILDREN’S GARDEN DAY: NATIONAL PUBLIC GARDENS WEEK METRO FIVE-0: Level 2 & Level 3 SOUP GARDEN Celebrate public gardens by visiting Innis- ADVENTURE DAY APRIL Discover what it takes to grow and harvest wood this weekend and receive a free gift Join us for a fun day of kayaking, paddle your own vegetable soup ingredients. for your garden. Gardens Entrance boarding, fishing, archery and more. Bring METRO FIVE-0: Level 3 Make crafts and enjoy family-friendly lunch or your own hot dogs to cook over MAY 18-19 SAT-SUN 1–4PM SIGNS OF SPRING gardening activities. Sisters Garden an open fire and we’ll supply the makings Enjoy a 2-mile walk as we search for signs for s’mores. Ages 50 and older APR 28 SUN 2–4PM of the season. Ages 50 and older INNISWOOD BOOK CLUB Darby Bend Lakes Rocky Fork Bulletin Board Join us for a discussion of this quarter’s MAY 18 SAT 10AM–2PM APR 7 SUN 2PM book: “A Buzz in the Meadow” by Dave MAY Goulson. Ages 18 and older Innis House CANOE THE LAKES PUPS AND PEEPS EGG HUNT MAY 18 SAT 2PM See the lakes from a canoe or kayak. Bring your dog so your favorite furry fam- PRESCHOOL IN THE GARDEN: Equipment provided. ily member can join in the seasonal fun NATURE MOMS MEET THE ARTISTS Darby Bend Lakes and search for eggs! Celebrate Mother’s Day early by learning Meet members of the Ohio Pastel Artists Rocky Fork Bulletin Board about moms of the animal world and MAY 27 MON 1–4PM League and view their plein air artwork at make a craft for your own mom to thank APR 13 SAT 1PM a reception. Innis House her for everything she does. Advance registration MAY 19 SUN 2–4PM ROCKY FORK MAY 1 WED 9:30AM, 11AM, 1PM MAY EVENING GARDEN WALK Join us for a relaxing stroll through the METRO PARKS AND COSI’S SPRING PLANT SALE gardens. Gardens Entrance CITYWIDE STAR PARTIES: CANINES, Purchase plants for your garden. A selec- MARCH CABERNET AND CONSTELLATIONS MAY 19 SUN 6PM tion of perennial plants and herbs are on Join Metro Parks and COSI for a dog’s sale. Sponsored by The Inniswood Volun- VERNAL POOL EXPLORATION night out where you and your furry friend teers, Inc. and the Herb Society of Ameri- Explore our swampy fields and forest to can enjoy the park as we look up to the ca, Central Ohio Unit. Gardens Entrance PRAIRIE OAKS search for frogs and salamanders at the night sky and see what’s out there! MAY 4 SAT 9AM–4PM height of their breeding season. Ages 17 and older MAY 5 SUN 11AM–3PM Rocky Fork Bulletin Board Rocky Fork Dog Park MAR 10 SUN 2–4PM MAY 3 FRI 7–10PM EVENING GARDEN WALK MAY Join us for a relaxing stroll through the HOMESCHOOL: METRO FIVE-0: Level 3 gardens. Gardens Entrance METRO PARKS AND COSI’S CITYWIDE SOUNDS OF THE SWAMP WALK OF THE MONTH MAY 5 SUN 6PM STAR PARTIES: STARLIGHT FLOAT Take a hike to a vernal pool as we listen for Take a 1.3-mile walk to discover the sights Join Metro Parks and COSI for an evening frog and toad calls! Ages 6-18 and sounds of the season. of stargazing and canoeing as we look up Advance registration Ages 50 and older Millstone Shelter JUNIOR GARDEN VOLUNTEERS to the night sky and see what’s out there! MAR 27 WED & 21921100 MAY 8 WED 11AM Join us as we help prepare the gardens for Canoes available, or bring your own canoe spring. Ages 11-17 Advance registration or kayak. Ages 17 and older MAY 11 SAT & 20821806 Darby Bend Lakes MAY 3 FRI 7–10PM

50 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 51 Rocky Fork & Scioto Audubon programs Scioto Grove & Sharon Woods programs

EVENING WILDLIFE WANDER LATE NIGHTS AT THE CLIMBING WALL LOOKING FOR LEPRECHAUNS SCIOTO GROVE See who starts to stir in the early The climbing wall will stay open until Find all the leprechauns hidden along the evening on a 1.5-mile hike. midnight every 2nd and 4th Friday of the trail and win a prize. Schrock Lake Restrooms Rocky Fork Bulletin Board month from April until October. We have MAR 17 SUN 2–4PM four auto belays. Bring your own climbing MAY 19 SUN 6:30PM MAY harness. Climbing Wall FAST-PACED ADULT FULL MOON HIKE APR 26 FRI 8PM–12AM METRO PARKS AND COSI’S CITYWIDE STAR PARTIES: Take a fast-paced 2.8-mile hike along grav- SCIOTO AUDUBON GLOW UP THE NIGHT el, paved and natural surface trails. Join Metro Parks and COSI for an evening Ages 18 and older Apple Ridge Bulletin Board MAY of glow in the dark archery and stargazing MAR 19 TUE 8PM PRESCHOOL STORY TIME as we look up to the night sky and see Bring your little ones for a nature what’s out there! The Grove METRO PARKS AND COSI’S SKYDANCER SATURDAY -inspired story or two. CITYWIDE STAR PARTIES: MAY 3 FRI 7–10PM Witness the amazing aerial display of the Grange Insurance Audubon Center STARRY, CLIMBING NIGHT American woodcock. Join Metro Parks and COSI for an evening EVERY THURS & SAT 10AM Apple Ridge Bulletin Board of late-night climbing and stargazing as we look up to the night sky and see what’s SHARON WOODS MAR 23 SAT 7:30PM WEEKLY BIRD HIKE out there! Climbing equipment provided. Search for birds in the park. Climbing Wall Grange Insurance Audubon Center SPRING BREAK: MAY 3 FRI 7–10PM MARCH I-SPY NATURE CHALLENGE EVERY SAT 10AM Pick up a scavenger hunt, complete the challenge and earn a prize. LATE NIGHTS AT THE CLIMBING WALL GIRL SCOUT DAY: NIGHT OWL Naturalist Office The climbing wall will stay open until Girls will participate in activities toward APRIL midnight every 2nd and 4th Friday of the earning the Night Owl Badge. MAR 25 MON 10AM–4PM month from April until October. We have Advance registration LATE NIGHTS AT THE CLIMBING WALL four auto belays. Bring your own climbing MAR 8 FRI & 20520100 SPRING BREAK: NATURE GAMES The climbing wall will stay open until harness. Climbing Wall Burn off some energy and see how well midnight every 2nd and 4th Friday of the you can play hide-and-seek in the forest. MAY 10 FRI 8PM–12AM HOMESCHOOLERS: month from April until October. We have MAY 24 FRI 8PM–12AM Natural Play Area four auto belays. Bring your own climbing JOURNAL MAKING MAR 26 TUE 1PM harness. Climbing Wall Create a journal and venture outside to fill LEARN THE ROPES a few pages. Ages 6-12 Spring Hollow Lodge APR 12 FRI 8PM–12AM Instructors will guide participants through MAR 12 TUE 10AM OR 1PM PRESCHOOLERS: the basics of climbing the 35-foot wall. SPRING FLING OPEN HOUSE LEARN THE ROPES Equipment provided. Advance registration Brush off your winter blues with games, HAPPY TAILS-N-TRAILS Instructors will guide participants through & crafts and activities that celebrate MAY 29 WED 21751402 Bring your canine companion for a 2-mile the basics of climbing the 35-foot wall. the coming of the season. hike followed by a doggie treat. Equipment provided. Advance registration Spring Hollow Lodge Apple Ridge Bulletin Board APR 24 WED & 21751402 MAR 28 THU 10AM–2PM MAR 16 SAT 10AM

52 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 53 Sharon Woods programs Sharon Woods programs

SPRING BREAK: EARTH DAY CLEANUP 2019 GEOTRAIL KICKOFF GO WILD KIDS CLUB: BINGO HIKE SPRING FLING OPEN HOUSE Help pull invasive plants and pick up litter Join us for the opening of this year’s Geo- Search for signs of spring as we play bingo Stop by for games, crafts and activities to on- and off-trail and around waterways. Trail treasure hunt. For more information, along the trail. Ages 5-12 celebrate the season. Spring Hollow Lodge Register at www.earthdaycolumbus.org go to www.geocaching.com. Schrock Lake Restrooms MAR 29 FRI 10AM–2PM Schrock Lake Picnic Shelter Apple Ridge Picnic Shelter MAY 4 SAT 2PM APR 13 SAT 2PM APR 27 SAT 1PM GO WILD KIDS CLUB: VERNAL POOLS WILDFLOWER WANDER Prepare to get wet as we explore the NATURAL PLAY AREA ADVENTURES: GO WILD KIDS CLUB: SOIL SAFARI Join Volunteer Anna Creswell on a creatures living in these wetlands. FAIRY, ELF & BUG HOUSES Dig in the dirt and explore what lives 1-mile stroll on- and off-trail in search of Ages 5-12 Spring Hollow Lodge Help us pull invasive plants and gather beneath your feet. Ages 5-12 spring wildflowers and edibles. natural items to build a house for your Natural Play Area Spring Hollow Lodge MAR 31 SUN 2PM favorite forest creature. Natural Play Area APR 28 SUN 2PM MAY 5 SUN 2PM APR 14 SUN 2PM APRIL HOMESCHOOLERS: FAST-PACED ADULT FULL MOON HIKE MAY COMPASS FRISBEE GOLF Take a fast-paced 2.8-mile hike along grav- Learn to use a compass to unlock the HAPPY TAILS-N-TRAILS el, paved and natural surface trails. secrets of the frisbee golf course. Bring your canine companion for a 2-mile METRO PARKS AND COSI’S Ages 18 and older Apple Ridge Bulletin Board Ages 6-12 Schrock Lake Picnic Shelter hike followed by a doggie treat. CITYWIDE STAR PARTIES: Apple Ridge Bulletin Board APR 18 THU 8:30PM BONFIRE AND S’MORES MAY 14 TUE 10AM OR 1PM Join Metro Parks and COSI for an evening APR 7 SUN 2PM under the stars as you gather ‘round the GPS EGG HUNT bonfire to roast s’mores, look up to the FAST-PACED ADULT FULL MOON HIKE Search for plastic eggs using GPS units Take a fast-paced 2.8-mile hike along LUNCHTIME CHAT: night sky and see what’s out there! (ours or your own) and you may win gravel, paved and natural surface trails. WILDLIFE OF SRI LANKA Apple Ridge Picnic Shelter a prize. Maple Grove Bulletin Board Ages 18 and older Apple Ridge Bulletin Board Join Anna Wittmer from Wild Birds Unlim- MAY 3 FRI 7–10PM ited as she talks about her travels to APR 20 SAT 10AM–2PM MAY 17 FRI 9PM Sri Lanka and shares photos of reptiles, SPRINGTIME NOTES FLUTE CHOIR birds and mammals from her adventures. PRESCHOOLERS: HOP TO IT! Experience the sounds of spring with HAPPY TAILS-N-TRAILS Feel free to bring lunch. Learn about bunnies through a story, craft the Michelle Tuesday Music School’s Bring your canine companion for a Ages 18 and older Spring Hollow Lodge and games. Spring Hollow Lodge combined flute choirs. They’ll perform an 2-mile hike followed by a doggie treat. APR 9 TUE 12PM Apple Ridge Bulletin Board APR 23 TUE 9:30AM, 11AM, 1PM exciting program with pieces inspired by APR 24 WED 9:30AM, 11AM, 1PM the adventures of our youth. MAY 19 SUN 4PM HOMESCHOOLERS: Spring Hollow Lodge FINDING YOUR WAY CACHE IN/TRASH OUT MAY 3 FRI 7PM MOVIE IN THE PARK: LEGO BATMAN Learn about different types of maps and Help make the park a better place to Enjoy bat-themed activities before you make your own as we go off-trail in the geocache by removing trash and invasive CHILDREN’S FISHING watch “The LEGO Batman Movie” (rated natural play area. Ages 6-12 species. Apple Ridge Picnic Shelter Drop a line in Schrock Lake and try to PG). Movie begins at dark. Bring your own Apple Ridge Picnic Shelter catch a big one. Ages 17 and younger seating. Apple Ridge Bulletin Board APR 27 SAT 10AM APR 10 WED 10AM OR 1PM Schrock Lake West Bulletin Board MAY 25 SAT 8PM MAY 4 SAT 10AM–12PM

54 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 55 Sharon Woods & Slate Run Farm programs Slate Run Farm programs

HOLIDAY TRAM TOUR EASTER TRADITIONS WASHDAY BLUES Hop aboard the tram for a tour of the park. APRIL Learn about using natural dyes for eggs Help the farmwife with the laundry and Maple Grove Bulletin Board and make a card or decoration to take try the scrub board and wringer. Watch home. Try the traditional game of egg as we make soap from lard and lye. MAY 27 MON 12PM HOMESCHOOLERS AT THE FARM: GIVE AND TAKE rolling and push an egg across the lawn Farmhouse without breaking it. Farmhouse Learn about livestock care and how the MAY 5 SUN 1–3PM PRESCHOOLERS: TRAM-N-TWEET animals help the farm family. APR 20 SAT 1–3PM Learn about birds as we zoom around the Ages 6 and older Farmhouse park on the tram. Schrock Lake Picnic Shelter MORNING CHORES APR 3 WED 1PM MORNING CHORES Join the farmer in feeding animals and MAY 29 WED 9:30AM, 11AM, 1PM Join the farmer in feeding animals and help with other barnyard chores. MAY 30 THU 9:30AM, 11AM, 1PM MORNING CHORES help with other barnyard chores. Ages 5 and older Advance registration Join the farmer in feeding animals and Ages 5 and older Advance registration MAY 11 SAT & 21251001 help with other barnyard chores. APR 20 SAT & 21251001 SLATE RUN FARM Ages 5 and older Advance registration APR 6 SAT & 21251001 TEA AND VICTORIAN TASTES FAMILY STORYTIME: SHEEP Join in some tea and taste traditions from Enjoy a story about these animals then Victorian times and see the decor of an MARCH SHEEP ON THE FARM see and touch some of the farm sheep. 1880s house. Farmhouse Watch sheep shearing, meet the lambs Farmhouse and learn about the uses of wool. MAY 11 SAT 1–3PM MAPLE TIME Farmhouse APR 27 SAT 11AM Sample this sweet treat and learn about HEIRLOOM GARDENING making maple syrup the 1880s way. APR 6 SAT 1–3PM Learn about the preservation of antique A short hike to the sugar bush leaves the MAY plant varieties and help plant the garden, Farm at 1 and 2pm. Sap collecting and WE DO WINDOWS weather permitting. Farmhouse boiling is weather dependent but all other Roll up your sleeves and find out how MAY 18-19 SAT-SUN 1–3PM activities will take place. Call 614.833.1880 the farm women do their spring-cleaning FAMILY STORYTIME: to see if sap is flowing.Farmhouse without electricity or other modern aids. SPRING IN THE GARDEN Farmhouse Enjoy a story, see what is growing around FAMILY OVERNIGHT AT THE FARM MAR 2-3 SAT-SUN 1–3PM APR 7 SUN 1–3PM the farm and help with some gardening Enjoy an overnight at the Farm, try camp- chores. Farmhouse fire cooking, a night hike, farm chores HOMESCHOOLERS AT THE FARM: MAY 4 SAT 11AM and parlor games. Ages 6 and older WHAT IS IT? DRAFT HORSE WORKSHOP Advance registration Take a look at 19th-century machines and Learn to groom, harness and drive these MAY 18 SAT & 21252000 tools and try to figure out how they work fine work animals. Ages 17 and older EGGS, FEATHERS AND FOWL and what their purpose is. Advance registration We will butcher chickens, show how eggs Ages 6 and older Farmhouse APR 13 SAT & 21251009 were preserved before refrigeration and HOMESCHOOLERS AT THE FARM: answer questions about keeping small BOTANY MAR 21 THU 1PM flocks at home. We may have newly Learn the basics of botany and look for SHEEP ON THE FARM hatched chicks to see. Farmhouse signs of spring around the Farm. Watch sheep shearing, meet the lambs Ages 6 and older Farmhouse and learn about the uses of wool. MAY 4 SAT 1–3PM Farmhouse MAY 22 WED 1–3PM APR 14 SUN 1–3PM

56 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 57 Slate Run Farm & Three Creeks programs Three Creeks programs

MORNING CHORES EAGLE WATCH WEEKEND HOMESCHOOLERS: NEW LEAVES TREE ID WALK Join the farmer in feeding animals and Take a 1-mile off-trail walk to see the nest- ALL ABOUT AMPHIBIANS Learn to identify trees from their flowers help with other barnyard chores. ing bald eagles through a spotting scope. Explore the edge of a wetland and learn and new leaves on an easy 1-mile walk. Ages 5 and older Advance registration Madison Christian Church Parking Lot about frogs, toads and other cold-blooded Confluence Area animals. Ages 6-17 Confluence Area MAY 25 SAT & 21251001 MAR 23 SAT 10AM OR 1PM MAY 5 SUN 2PM MAR 24 SUN 2PM APR 16 TUE 1PM TOY BOAT BUILDING HOMESCHOOLERS: Build a simple wooden boat to sail on PRESCHOOLERS: HOP INTO SPRING SPRING BREAK SPECIAL: BEGINNING BIRDING the pond. Farmhouse Discover frogs, toads and salamanders KID’S FISHING Discover the joys of birdwatching while through stories, activities and a short walk. Cast a line and try to catch some fish. learning the basics of identification and MAY 26 SUN 1–3PM Ages 15 and younger Heron Pond how to use binoculars. Ages 6-17 MAY 27 MON 1–3PM Heritage Nature Center Confluence Area MAR 26 TUE 10AM APR 24 WED 10AM MAY 7 TUE 10AM FAMILY FUN WALK THREE CREEKS OLDER HOMESCHOOLERS: ALL ABOUT EAGLES Use sight, sound, taste, touch and smell PRESCHOOLERS: Learn about the history of America’s na- to explore nature on a fun 1-mile walk. SWAMP THINGS tional bird and take a 1-mile off-trail hike Confluence Area Learn about the small creatures that make their homes in ponds and wetlands. MARCH to watch the eagles through a spotting APR 25 THU 7PM scope. Ages 7-17 Confluence Area Madison Christian Church Parking Lot MAY 14 TUE 10AM EAGLE WATCH WEEKEND SPRING BREAK SPECIAL: Take a 1-mile off-trail walk to see the nest- MAR 28 THU 10AM OR 1PM KID’S FISHING ing bald eagles through a spotting scope. Cast a line and try to catch some fish. HOMESCHOOLERS: Madison Christian Church Parking Lot Ages 15 and younger Heron Pond IN THE SWAMP Explore a wetland and learn about APR 26 FRI 1PM MAR 2 SAT 1–2:30PM APRIL the many creatures that call it home. Ages 6-17 Confluence Area METRO FIVE-0: Level 3 FOR ADULTS: EAGLE WATCH FROG FRENZY BEAUTIFUL BLUEBELLS MAY 16 THU 10AM OR 1PM Take a 1-mile off-trail walk to see the nest- Bring a flashlight and wading shoes to Enjoy a 1-mile walk among the bluebells ing bald eagles through a spotting scope. search for frogs in the ponds and listen to and other blooms. Ages 50 and older BARKING AND BREAKFAST Ages 18 and older their mating calls. Confluence Area Confluence Area Enjoy breakfast snacks for you and your Madison Christian Church Parking Lot APR 12-13 FRI-SAT 8PM APR 27 SAT 10AM dog then take a 3-mile walk. MAR 3 SUN 2–3:30PM Confluence Area PRESCHOOLERS: MAY 25 SAT 9AM TIMBERDOODLE TIME AWESOME AMPHIBIANS MAY Take a 1.5-mile walk to watch the aerial Discover frogs, toads and salamanders FLOAT THE POND courtship display of the American through stories and fun activities. Take a canoe out for a ride on Heron Pond. woodcock. Confluence Area Confluence Area BIRDING AND BREAKFAST Share a hearty breakfast then walk the Children must be at least 40 inches tall to APR 16 TUE 10AM MAR 9 SAT 6:30–8PM trails in search of migrating feathered ride. Heron Pond APR 18 THU 10AM friends. Confluence Area MAY 25 SAT 1–3PM MAY 4 SAT 8–10AM MAY 27 MON 1–3PM

58 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 59 Mink at Pickerington Ponds (Barb Jenks) 60 To learn more, visit metroparks.net