A Passion for Nature: Metro Parks celebrates America 250 with an Ohio twist

It was America’s 250th birthday on July 4 and we want to continue the celebrations of that national achievement here in Ohio. It wasn’t until March 1, 1803, almost 27 years after the Declaration of Independence that gave these United States of America its freedom, that Ohio joined the Union, becoming the 17th state. This summer we are offering numerous programs, branded as America 250-Ohio, to celebrate some of the things that the great state of Ohio has added to the Union. Join us for these two programs at Highbanks Metro Park over the coming weeks.

At Highbanks Nature Center on Saturday July 18, from 4 to 5pm, wildlife artist Juliet Mullett shares her illustrations and stories of the positive impacts and success stories of wildlife around Ohio and the globe.

The program, America 250-Ohio: Wildlife Success Stories, is for visitors age 18 and older. Juliet has exhibited in many art galleries around central Ohio and was the keynote speaker for the Ohio Wildlife Rehabilitators annual conference and a guest speaker at various organizations throughout Ohio.

And on Tuesday August 11, at 11am, we have an exciting program for anyone age 6 and older: America 250-Ohio: River Walk to the Giant Sycamore

We will walk in the water over rocks and boulders as we hike in the Olentangy River to reach the famous giant sycamore tree. The tree we will be visiting is over 400 years old. This is a rugged 1.5-mile hike with varying water depth, up to knee level. Families are welcome to bring nets or buckets to explore the river. Meet at the River Bluff area at 8400 Olentangy River Road (not accessible from the main park entrance).

Sunday August 23, at 6pm, we have a program for all ages: America 250: Americana in the Gardens

Visitors can join Inniswood’s horticulturist for a walk to discover this year’s garden design inspiration, from American landscapes and symbolism to historical garden styles. Meet at the Gardens Entrance to begin the walk.

For more programs, look for programs marked with our special Eagle and Bison logo throughout the summer.

The America 250-Ohio Challenge

Looking for another way to celebrate America 250-Ohio while exploring Metro Parks? Try out the challenge in our app! We have highlighted 30 different locations in the parks that showcase our history. Some of these are trails with historic structures while others are educational signs detailing the history of the space. If you check-in on the app at 20 of these areas, you will receive a special prize at our Scioto Fest event. The challenge ends September 15, so get started today! Details about how to download the app and join the challenge can be found here.

80 Years and counting

Last year, Metro Parks celebrated its founding, 80 years before. Although we are the youngest of the major Metro Parks systems in Ohio, the Columbus and Franklin County Metropolitan Park District has forged its way to the forefront of its compatriots and its combined land holdings of more than 28,900 acres make it the largest of all the Metro Parks systems in the state.

To celebrate the continuing success story, Metro Parks is proud to publish ‘A Passion for Nature,’ a book that tells the fascinating history of our park district and explores the founding and development of each of the 22 parks. The story also illustrates the natural beauty of the entire park system, supported by more than 200 stunning photos from the Metro Parks photo archive. Written and designed by long-time Metro Parks author and communicator, Virginia Gordon, ‘A Passion for Nature’ is available for pre-order now for just $15 and will be published on July 31.