October Events in our local parks

[April Boyer]

WALKING THRU AUTUMN
Saturday, Oct. 09, 2010 (begins at 9:00 am)

 

9 am - Ottawa Metro Park - Lima Lake

This is the 4th year for this popular series of 8 consecutive Saturday morning hikes, beginning Sept. 18 and concluding Nov. 6.  Combine the benefits of walking with an opportunity to explore some of the 27 miles of Metro Park trails.  Attend your first hike and receive a hand made hickory, sassafras or dogwood walking stick and a guide to the Metro Park trails.  Upon completing 6 out of the 8 hikes, participants will receive a 2010 Metro Parks hiking stick medallion.  All participants are required to register and a $10 registration fee is required.  The registration fee will be waived for those not interested in a hiking stick. 

All hikes will start at 9 am, will last approximately 1.5 - 2 hours and be on easy to moderate terrain.  Call 419-221-1232 to register.  Sept. 18 marks the first hike; however, participants may register as late as Oct. 1 for the final 6 hikes.  After this date, walk-ins are welcome but will not be eligible for the hiking stick nor the medallion.  Enjoy the special beauty of an Ohio fall morning as you explore your Metro Parks.  It's the natural thing to do!

 

FALL COLOR WALK
Sunday, Oct. 10, 2010 (begins at 2:00 pm)

 

2 pm - Ft. Amanda Park

Enjoy the sights and sounds of autumn as we walk amid rustling leaves and fresh autumn breezes.  As an added bonus discover how to identify these trees and others found in your Metro Parks. Registration required by Oct. 7.

 

NATURE PALS: LEAF KICKING
Thursday, Oct. 14, 2010 (begins at 1:00 pm)

 

1 pm - McElroy Environmental Center

Children ages 3-5 along with an adult companion are invited to explore the beauty and mystery of fall color.  Become a "leaf kicker" as we wander the trails in search of that perfect fall leaf.  A story, craft and hike are all part of the fun.  Registration required by Oct. 12.

FALL COLOR WALK
Sunday, Oct. 17, 2010 (begins at 2:00 pm)

 

2 pm - Kendrick Woods

Enjoy the sights and sounds of autumn as we walk amid rustling leaves and fresh autumn breezes.  As an added bonus discover how to identify these trees and others found in your Metro Parks.  Registration required by Oct. 14.

American Traditional Skills: Basket Weaving
Saturday, Oct. 23, 2010 (begins at 9:00 am)

 

9 am to 1 pm - McElroy Environmental Center

Join Carolyn Fast as she teaches us how to make a casserole basket that you can carry your 9x13 casseroles to church and family dinners.  Cost of the class is $34.  Register by Oct. 20.

NIGHT HIKE
Saturday, Oct. 23, 2010 (begins at 8:00 pm)

 

8 pm - Kendrick Woods

Explore the flora and fauna of Kendrick Woods by the light of the Hunter's moon.  Registration required by Oct. 20.

"GROWING UP" WILD WORKSHOP
Monday, Oct. 25, 2010 (begins at 6:00 pm)

 

6 pm - McElroy Environmental Center

This free workshop is geared for adults interested in providing nature-based learning experiences for children, ages 3-7.  This workshop focuses on wildlife and provides ideas for activities, crafts, songs and experiences appropriate for young children.  Day care providers, teachers, parents and/or grandparents will all benefit.  A 128 page resource guide will be provided.  Registration required by Oct. 15.