JILL SNYDER
Assistant Manager – Interpretation & Education
October is a great time to visit your Metro Parks. Animals are busy enjoying the last warmer days before winter sets in. The weather is nearly perfect – not too hot, not too cold – and the colors of the leaves and flowers are amazing!
Fall is also a wonderful time to join a guided nature program. Naturalists and Outdoor Adventure staff offer educational opportunities for individuals and families to learn about the outdoors. These public programs include hikes to remote areas, a chance to learn about the animals living in our parks, preschool storytimes, outdoor skills practice and even a few specifically for adults over 50. This month there are several fall color walks, nighttime, lantern hikes, painting and a chance to learn about animal skeletons. Check out the website to see all the program offerings. The best part is that all of these programs are free to attend!
Naturalists also offer field trip opportunities for schools, scouts, youth groups and senior centers. Field trips can be tailored to meet the needs of each classroom and group. Slate Run Farm has tours that take children back to the 1880s to learn about Ohio history. Parks use animals to teach life cycles and hikes to explain ecosystems. Field trips are age-specific, hands-on and engaging. To find out more check out the website.
Here are a few fall fun events you don’t want to miss!
Slate Run Metro Park’s Fall Fest
Saturday, October 16, 2021
11am-3pm in the Buzzard’s Roost Picnic Area
1375 State Route 674
Canal Winchester, OH 43110
Free fall family fun including hayrides, a corn maze, archery, activities from Slate Run’s Living Historical Farm, animals from Ohio Wildlife Center, games and crafts!
Blacklick’s Trick-or-Treat Trail
Tuesday, October 26, 2021
5-7pm in the Nature Center Park Lot and Buttonbush Trail
6975 E Livingston Ave.
Reynoldsburg, OH 43068
Advanced Registration Required – visit our website to sign up.
Wear your best costume and take a half-mile walk. Learn about tricks and get treats. Open to families and children of all ages.