Metro Parks - Central Ohio Park System

Blacklick Hiking Club
2025-09-06 09:00 - 10:00 (America/New_York) | Blacklick Woods, 6975 East Livingston Ave, Reynoldsburg, OH, 43068, United States
Join the hiking club! Meet the first Saturday of every month for a moderately-paced hike and to meet like-minded people.

Grandparents & Grandkids on the Farm: Meet the Animals
2025-09-06 10:00 - 12:00 | Slate Run Living Historical Farm, 1375 OH-674, Canal Winchester, OH, 43110, United States
Program ongoing between 10am- noon
Join us for an opportunity for grandparents and grandkids to explore the farm together and meet
the animals. (Nieces/nephews and borrowed grandchildren will work too)

I-Spy Trail
2025-09-06 11:00 - 14:00 | Blendon Woods, 4265 E Dublin Granville Road, Columbus, 43081, United States
Test your observation skills along the paved lake trail! See if you can spot all of the critters hidden in the woods.

Bye-Bye Butterflies
2025-09-06 12:00 - 12:30 | Blendon Woods, 4265 E Dublin Granville Road, Columbus, 43081, United States
Learn about the epic migration undertaken by monarch butterflies, the perils the face along the way, what you can do you help them on their journey, and watch as we tag and release any that are ready to migrate.

Tram Tour
2025-09-06 13:00 - 14:00 | Blacklick Woods, 6975 East Livingston Ave, Reynoldsburg, OH, 43068, United States
Hop on the tram for a guided tour of Blacklick Woods.

River Walk to the Giant Sycamore (hike in river)
2025-09-06 13:00 - 15:00 | Highbanks River Bluff, 8400 Olentangy River Rd., Columbus, OH, 43235, United States
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 (water will be higher than rain boots) up to knee level. Closed toed shoes (water sandals, old tennis shoes etc) are required. No flip flops. Families are welcome to bring nets or buckets to explore. Not wheelchair or stroller accessible. Participants should expect to get wet and bring towels and change of shoes for the way home. Hint: keeping an extra garbage bag in your car to sit on in case you get more wet than expected. No bathrooms at River Bluff. Age 6+ due to water levels. No registration required. Parking limited. Ages 6+ due to water levels.
IMPORTANT: River Bluff area does NOT have restrooms or water fountains. Please bring a water bottle. Apply insect repellent before coming to the program.
***This program is contingent on Olentangy water levels and would be postponed in the event of high water levels. This post will be updated by 12pm on the day of the program. You can also contact the Highbanks nature center after 10am the day of the program (Highbanks Nature center phone number 614-846-9962).
Meeting location notes: River Bluff area is not located at the main area Highbanks. River Bluff entrance is located off 315 on the opposite side of the river as Highbanks main park. River Bluff Area physical address: 8400 Olentangy River Road, Columbus OH 43235 Please call Highbanks nature center 614-846-9962 for questions prior to the day of the program. Day of program, please call Highbanks Ranger cell phone at 614-906-3149.

Fall Migration Bird Hike
2025-09-07 09:00 - 11:00 | Blacklick Woods, 6975 East Livingston Ave, Reynoldsburg, OH, 43068, United States
Take a 1.25-mile hike and search the forest for migrating songbirds.

5-Mile Hike Alum Creek Greenway Hike
2025-09-07 09:00 - 11:00 | Three Creeks, 3860 Bixby Road, Groveport, OH, 43125, United States
Let’s enjoy early autumn with an almost 5-mile hike along the Alum Creek Greenway. We’ll get some exercise and make an occasional stop for water or if we see anything interesting. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water. Meets at the Three Creeks Heron Pond Area bulletin board, 3400 Williams Rd.

Grandparent's Day Paddle!
2025-09-07 09:00 - 11:00 | Quarry Trails, 2600 Dublin Road, Columbus, OH, 43228, United States
Join us to celebrate Grandparent’s day at Quarry Trails Metro Park! Solo sit-in kayaks with a weight limit of 275 Ibs will be available for ages 10+. A couple of tandems will be available for all ages, with an adult present in the boat! First come first serve, all equipment and instruction provided. Use address 2319 Quarry Trails Dr, Columbus, OH. Please follow signage and be on the lookout for construction traffic.

Bird Hike
2025-09-07 10:00 - 11:00 | Battelle Darby Creek, 1775 Darby Creek Drive, Galloway, OH, 43119, United States
Take a ~1-mile hike to look for birds. Limited supply of binoculars available, all experience levels welcome. Ages 8+, meet at the Indian Ridge Bulletin Board.

For Adults: Science Sunday - The Importance of Trees
2025-09-07 13:00 - 14:00 | Blacklick Woods, 6975 East Livingston Ave, Reynoldsburg, OH, 43068, United States
Join Shelly Douglas from Green Columbus as we learn about how trees impact us during this session about tree equity, the impacts of tree canopy on human health, and community-driven initiatives in Central Ohio. Meet at Beech Maple Lodge.

Backpacking Series: Week 1- Four Essentials & Site Selection
2025-09-07 13:00 - 14:30 | Scioto Grove, 5172 Jackson Pike, Grove City, OH, 43123, United States
Metro Parks Outdoor Adventure Backpacking Series is BACK!!!
Are you wanting to learn more about backpacking? Join us for a 6-week series of interactive classes designed as an introduction to backpacking, building up to an overnight trip at the end! Attendance at all classes is NOT required – however, the overnight trip will only be open to those who attend at least ONE class.
Each week’s topic will have two dates to choose from in that week – you don’t need to attend both dates in the week. This series is for all ages and all backpacking abilities, from beginner to experienced backpackers.
Week #1: Four Essentials & Site Selection. This week we will be discussing the 4 essentials of backpacking sleep systems as well as information about picking the proper site to spend your night in the wilderness. It is not as easy as simply pitching a tent, but we will go through all of the steps to set you up for success! We have gear for demonstration, but you are encouraged to bring your own.
Meet at the Arrowhead Picnic Area at Scioto Grove Metro Park.
Fall Backpacking Series:
Week 1: 4 Essentials & Site Selection
Week 2: Water & Waste
Week 3: Fuel, Fire, & Food
Week 4: Clothing & Foot Care
Week 5: Prep, Safety, and Outdoor Ethics
Week 6: Shakedown Hike!

Canning, Pickling, and Preserving
2025-09-07 13:00 - 15:00 | Slate Run Living Historical Farm, 1375 OH-674, Canal Winchester, OH, 43110, United States
Program begins at 1pm behind the farmhouse with a presentation about food preservation from 1-1:30 pm.
Then watch the farm ladies demonstrate how to preserve the garden produce using traditional 19th century methods.

Meet Morty
2025-09-07 14:00 - 16:00 | Blendon Woods, 4265 E Dublin Granville Road, Columbus, 43081, United States
Our newest Ambassador, Morty the European Starling, will be on display in the Nature Center.

Fall Flowers
2025-09-07 16:00 - 17:00 | Blacklick Woods, 6975 East Livingston Ave, Reynoldsburg, OH, 43068, United States
Join a naturalist for a 1-mile hike to learn about wildflowers blooming in September.

Family Full Moon Hike
2025-09-07 20:00 - 22:00 | Sharon Woods, 6911 Cleveland Ave., Columbus, OH, 43081, United States
Join us for a guided night-time walk in the woods and see the forest in a way most people don’t get to experience. Trail is not suitable for strollers.

Fast-Paced Full Moon Hike
2025-09-07 20:00 - 22:00 | Sharon Woods, 6911 Cleveland Ave., Columbus, OH, 43081, United States
Join us for a Fast-Paced Full Moon Hike through the night-time woods. This program is not suitable for strollers or slow walkers.

Preschoolers: Riding and Wading
2025-09-08 10:00 - 11:00, 2025-09-08 13:00 - 14:00 | Blacklick Woods, 6975 East Livingston Ave, Reynoldsburg, OH, 43068, United States
Take a tram ride to Blacklick Creek and then wade in the water in search of aquatic critters.

After School: Crafts
2025-09-08 17:00 - 19:00 | Blacklick Woods, 6975 East Livingston Ave, Reynoldsburg, OH, 43068, United States
Stop by the Nature Center to make some simple nature-themed crafts.

Yoga with Naomi
2025-09-08 18:00 - 19:00 | Scioto Grove, 5172 Jackson Pike, Grove City, OH, 43123, United States
Join us at Scioto Grove Metro Park for free outdoor yoga in the park, perfect for any level! Yoga will take place at The Grove Lodge. We will be outdoors on the deck weather permitting. In the case of inclement weather, we will be indoors the lodge. Bring your own mat!

Backpacking Series: Week 2 - Water & Waste
2025-09-08 18:00 - 19:30 | Scioto Grove, 5172 Jackson Pike, Grove City, OH, 43123, United States
Are you wanting to learn more about backpacking? Join us for a 6-week series of interactive classes designed as an introduction to backpacking, building up to an overnight trip at the end! Attendance at all classes is NOT required – however, the overnight trip will only be open to those who attend at least ONE class.
Each week’s topic will have two dates to choose from in that week – you don’t need to attend both dates in the week. This series is for all ages and all backpacking abilities, from beginner to experienced backpackers.
Week #2: Water & Waste. One of the most important considerations for backpacking is where you will get clean, drinkable water. We will cover all of the important information you need to keep yourself hydrated and healthy on the trail. Participants will have the opportunity to practice treating water. We will provide a few filtering devices to share, however, you are encouraged to bring your own treatment system to practice with!
Fall Backpacking Series:
Week 1: 4 Essentials & Site Selection
Week 2: Water & Waste
Week 3: Fuel, Fire, & Food
Week 4: Clothing & Foot Care
Week 5: Prep, Safety, & Outdoor Ethics
Week 6: Shakedown Hike!

Intro to Rucking
2025-09-09 09:30 - 10:30 | Quarry Trails, 2600 Dublin Road, Columbus, OH, 43228, United States
A blend of cardio and strength training, the activity of rucking is quickly gaining popularity within the fitness community. But what is rucking exactly? Rucking originated in the military, where carrying large amounts of weight across great distances is a necessity. Simply put, rucking is walking with a weighted pack or rucksack. Join us for a staff led Intro to Rucking program, meet at the Lakes Area of Quarry Trails Metro Park. It is recommended to bring a backpack with weight to wear as we are traversing the trails.

Preschool: Turtle Time
2025-09-09 10:00 - 11:30, 2025-09-09 14:00 - 15:30 | Sharon Woods, 6911 Cleveland Ave., Columbus, OH, 43081, United States
Meet our resident Box Turtle and learn all about how terrific turtles are through games, song, and a fun craft!

Try It! Archery
2025-09-09 15:30 - 17:00 | Scioto Grove, 5172 Jackson Pike, Grove City, OH, 43123, United States
Come try your hand at this free archery program! Come out anytime between the times listed. All equipment provided. Ages 8+.

Evening Kayaking
2025-09-09 16:00 - 19:00 | Quarry Trails, 2600 Dublin Road, Columbus, OH, 43228, United States
Come out anytime during the listed times and enjoy kayaking the lake at Quarry Trails Metro Park, kayaking will be first come first served. Solo, sit in kayaks available for ages 10+, max weight: 275Ibs. A couple of tandem kayaks will be available for all ages, with an adult. Equipment and instruction is provided. Free and fun!
Use address 2319 Quarry Trails Dr, Columbus, OH. Please follow signage and be on the lookout for construction traffic.

Puppy Socialization Adventure Hike
2025-09-09 18:00 - 19:00 | Rocky Fork, 7180 East Walnut St., Westerville, OH, 43081, United States
Introduce your puppy to the outdoors and hiking in the presence of other dogs and people. Puppies should be fully vaccinated and under 1yr old. Hike will be at a slow pace with opportunities for you to practice skills you are working on, so bring favorite treats. Please no retractable leashes; max. six foot leads. This program is not meant to be a “puppy playtime”, but an opportunity for you to teach your puppy how to walk calmly and politely in a new environment. Please leave older dogs at home. Meets Tuesdays in September & October at 6pm, except Sept 30. Hike will conclude by 645pm. Hike will be cancelled in event of inclement weather; see the Rocky Fork Facebook page for up to date information on cancellation.

Story Time
2025-09-10 10:00 - 11:00 | Blacklick Woods, 6975 East Livingston Ave, Reynoldsburg, OH, 43068, United States
Enjoy a reading of “Box Turtle at Long Pond”, meet a live turtle and make a turtle craft to take home.

Try it! Kayaking
2025-09-11 10:00 - 12:00 | Quarry Trails, 2600 Dublin Road, Columbus, OH, 43228, United States
