PARKEXPLORER GEAUGA PARK DISTRICT ACTIVITY GUIDE - AWS

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PARKEXPLORER GEAUGA PARK DISTRICT ACTIVITY GUIDE - AWS
PARKEXPLORER
GEAUGA PARK DISTRICT ACTIVITY GUIDE

Photo by Holly Sauder
                               SPRING 2020
4 When the parks            7 Judge Grendell    14 Adventure camps       18 How can we all
become a backdrop for       names Pat Preston   present summer fun for   celebrate the 50th
special family traditions   Park Commissioner   grades 5 through 10      anniversary of Earth Day?
PARKEXPLORER GEAUGA PARK DISTRICT ACTIVITY GUIDE - AWS
UPCOMING EVENTS Mark your calendars!

    EARTH DAY                                            Commemorating the 50th Anniversary of Earth Day!
    Extravaganza                                    Saturday, April 18 • 11 AM - 3 PM • The West Woods
    with   Natural Resource                                       • Wildlife presentations • Live animals • Nature craft
           Management                                                 • Amphibian/reptile displays • Bird banding
                                                                  • Garlic mustard challenge with prizes • Food truck

    10th ANNIVERSARY Sunday, June 14 • The West Woods
                                                     Challenge yourself to this one-of-a-kind trail run
                                                     through wooded hills — cave garb encouraged. Also
                                                     this year, all who complete the course earn a 10th
                                                     anniversary commemorative medal!
                                                     Register ahead & save at http://bit.ly/gpdcaveman                                                                              10th ANNIVERSARY

         & 1-Mile Fun Walk                          Registration 7 AM • Costume Contest 8:30 AM • Race/Walk 9 AM

       ROPES                                        Claridon Woodlands’ high ropes course opens Sunday, May 24
                                                    Hours: Friday through Monday, 10:30 AM - 6 PM (last group up at 5 PM)
       & BOATS
        Visit website under News &
                                                    Headwaters Park’s kayak & canoe borrowing begins Sunday, May 31
                                                    Hours: Thursday through Monday, 10 AM - 6 PM (last boat out at 5 PM)
        Updates for details & restrictions

                                                     Take home a free milkweed plant to help the troubled
                                                     Monarch population! One pot per person, please.
             Milkweed                               Mother’s Day Giveaway: Sunday, May 10, 10 AM - 12:30 PM
             Giveaways                              				                    at The West Woods Nature Center
                                                    Father’s Day Giveaway: Sunday, June 21, 9:30 AM - Noon
                                                    				                    at Claridon Woodlands

        Nights Out
                                                      Amphitheater concerts at Big Creek Park (BC)                    Outdoor movie nights at Observatory Park;
                                                      or Claridon Woodlands (CW); 7 - 8:30 PM                         activities begin at 8 PM, movies at dark

                                                      Chardon Polka Band 6/13 (BC)                                    Jumanji: The Next Level (PG-13) 6/20

        in  the   Parks
        A great way to spend
                                                      Long Time Gone 7/18 (BC)
                                                      Hiram Rapids Stumblers 8/15 (CW)
                                                      The Pop Tarts 8/29 (BC)
                                                                                                                      The Martian (PG-13) 7/11
                                                                                                                      Up (PG) 8/8

           a summer evening!

     SPRING PROGRAMS on pages 8-13
    • Registration is required in advance for   • Programs are generally free of charge; those with fees                  UGA G     Geauga Gems Trekking Series Program
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      limited enrollment programs on a first      are noted. Payment of fees must be made at the time of                            Fulfills one of the naturalist-led requirements toward
                                                                                                                                    your Trekking Series award
      come, first served basis. Registration      registration with a credit/debit card.
      can be completed online or at             • Registration fees are refundable up to five days prior to                         Nature’s Not To Be Missed - Program focused
      440-286-9516.                               the event, or if the Park District cancels the program.                           on unique encounters with Nature
    • Programs may be cancelled in the event    • If you or a member of your family has special needs,
      of severe weather or a storm warning.                                                                                         Fully Wheelchair/Stroller Accessible
                                                  please call the Park District regarding available accessibility
                                                  accommodations.                                                                   Nature Scopes - Program recommended for our
                                                                                                                                    fifth-grade Nature Scopes students

2   PARKEXPLORER • www.geaugaparkdistrict.org
PARKEXPLORER GEAUGA PARK DISTRICT ACTIVITY GUIDE - AWS
PARKEXPLORER                                                A seasonal guide to the programs, special
                                                            events and news of Geauga Park District

Upcoming Events................................... 2                                          COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
Feature: A Long-Running Tradition......... 4                                 PROBATE/JUVENILE DIVISION GEAUGA COUNTY
Park Spotlight: Big Creek Park................ 6                                                        TIMOTHY J GRENDELL – JUDGE
Introducing Our New Commissioner...... 7                                                                            Courthouse Annex, 2nd Floor
Donor Recognition Nov to Jan............... 7                                                    231 Main Street, Suite 200 · Chardon, Ohio 44024
April Programs....................................... 8                                                                        Voice: 440-279-1830
                                                                                                                            www.geaugacourts.org
May Programs...................................... 10
June Programs...................................... 12
                                                                                                 F RO M T H E B E N C H
Summer Camp Schedule...................... 14
From the Executive Director................. 15
                                                            Dear Geauga County Friends and Neighbors,
Park Locations & Amenities.................. 16
Geocaching.......................................... 17     Congratulations to Director Oros, the hardworking Park Staff,
In Nature: Earth Day............................. 18        and the dedicated Park Board for another excellent “Frozen Fest,”
Fun Page.............................................. 19   a highlight of winter in Geauga County.
                                                            You know how much I love our Great Geauga County Parks!
                                                            Let’s see what others in Geauga County are saying:
              Park Mission                                    “As always Nora is just excellent! I cannot say enough about her.
                                                              What an asset to the Geauga Park community. I will be at the next
   The mission of Geauga Park District is                     program.” (Timbertots: Searching for Squirrels)
   to preserve, conserve and protect the
     natural features of Geauga County                        “Frozen Fest was phenomenal! Every single employee & volunteer
    and to provide outdoor recreational                       was so great & really made it a fun day for the kids! Thank you for
 experiences to our residents of every age,                   putting this on!” (Frozen Fest)
  every ability and at all times of the year.
                                                              “All of the volunteers at Frozen Fest were very helpful and caring.
                                                              They took time to work with our grandchildren to make them feel
                                                              special.” (Frozen Fest)
               Park Hours
               Daily 6 AM - 11 PM                             “Frozen Fest is supremely executed and the staff at The West Woods
                                                              who are directly involved deserve a huge round of applause. The
  Big Creek Park’s Donald W. Meyer Center                     happiness that exudes from this day is second to none. Thank you!”
     is open weekdays 10 AM - 4:30 PM                         (Frozen Fest)
        The West Woods Nature Center                        As spring reawakens the natural wonders in our Parks, I hope you
         is open daily 10 AM - 4:30 PM                      and your family will take some time to use and enjoy them.
Observatory Park is open daily till 1 AM from
 Memorial Day to Labor Day and till 11 PM                   Hope to see you at the Parks!
    from Labor Day to Memorial Day; its
     Robert McCullough Science Center                       Sincerely,
      and Oberle Observatory are open
2nd & 4th Fridays & Saturdays of each month
      6 - 11 PM and every other Sunday
           of each month 1 - 4 PM                           Timothy J. Grendell
                                                            Geauga County Probate/Juvenile Court Judge
           The Maple Highlands Trail
          is open daily dawn till dusk

       Burton Wetlands Nature Preserve                      Board of Park Commissioners                                 Executive Director
           is open daily 6 AM - 9 PM

     For more information on your
       parks, programs or events
         Phone: 440-286-9516
           Fax: 440-286-1285
                                                              Howard Bates      Jackie Dottore         Pat Preston           John Oros
     www.geaugaparkdistrict.org
                                                            Park Board Meetings
     info@geaugaparkdistrict.org                            Dates and times are subject to change. Find the current schedule on our website
                                                            under About GPD, or call 440-286-9516.

                                                                www.geaugaparkdistrict.org • PARKEXPLORER 3
PARKEXPLORER GEAUGA PARK DISTRICT ACTIVITY GUIDE - AWS
FEATURING PARK FRIENDS

    A Long-Running Tradition                                                                 By Dorothy Inghram (Davis)
                                                                                             and Ramie Allard (Inghram)
                                                                                              Photos provided by the family

                                             M
                                          ore than 90 years
                                      ago, in July of 1927, the
                                    Covert family came together
                                 in a Chardon Methodist church to
                              visit with relatives from as far away as
                             California. After that first family reunion,
                         the Coverts recognized a need to come together
                       each year, God willing, on the last Sunday of July to
                      share a meal, enjoy the outdoors, play games and visit
                      with relatives who they often didn’t see but once a year.

    Today, this reunion carries the
    name Covert-Davis Reunion, as Miss
    Mary Covert was married to James
    Davis, and the descendants of these
    two families find it important to
    come together and record their                                     1930 Reu
                                                                               nion    2019 Reu
                                                                                               nion
    history. They have continued the
    tradition of meeting annually on
    the last Sunday of July since 1927.      For many years, the reunion was          fit the needs best of the growing
    During the war years, the families       held in Willoughby Hills at Cleveland    family. Its shelters, playgrounds,
    agreed that the reunion should           Metroparks’ Squire’s Castle. Then        open spaces and natural habitats
    be postponed until after the war,        the families decided they were           were certainly a draw to continue
    as many of the young men were            outgrowing the location with             the reunion tradition. The West
    away from home. Three children           respect to shelter and picnicking        Woods, Big Creek Park, The Rookery,
    (two in Geauga County and one in         space and sought out alternative         Sunnybrook Preserve, Orchard Hills
    California), now in their 80s and 90s,   locations further east in Geauga         Park and Frohring Meadows, most
    from the Covert and Davis families       County.                                  recently, have all taken rank among
    that started this long-running event     Rain or shine, the multiple options      the parks chosen.
    are still attending today.               of the Geauga County park system         Each year the families came together

4   PARKEXPLORER • www.geaugaparkdistrict.org
PARKEXPLORER GEAUGA PARK DISTRICT ACTIVITY GUIDE - AWS
to share a potluck meal, play         The meal is always a pleaser, with     one of the park benches. A more
games and eat fresh fruit pies        some timeless favorite recipes         recent highlight of this tradition
and ice cream to wrap up the          returning each year. Games             is the homemade/homegrown
day. In the early days, games for     continue to be key in drawing          item auction. Propagated plants,
the children included a peanut/       this competitive family together.      crocheted afghans, canned goods,
candy toss on the grass and           No matter how old or young, we         up-cycled bird houses and famous
relay races. Adults would play a      are always in it to win it! Today’s    fudge are some of the favorite
very competitive baseball game,       games include sack relay races,        returning items that bring in
accompanied by fresh-squeezed         a water balloon toss, tug o’ war       money for the following year and
lemonade to quench the thirst of      and a raw egg toss. Scavenger          another wonderful reunion.
all those playing in the hot sun.     hunts along the trails and through     This year, the Covert-Davis
Following the games, the adults       the woods entertain the children,      Reunion will celebrate its 91st
would sit together and record the     while adults have the business         year at Frohring Meadows. We’ve
history of the year gone by, taking   meeting or indulge in a cornhole       watched this park from its infancy
minutes and updating births,          tournament or family history trivial   of grass growing in with no trees
deaths and marriages in a leather-    pursuit game. Minutes are written      to a pleasant balance of shade
bound folio (still in use today).     each year, and officers are elected    from the sun and open space
A hat would be passed to collect      on alternate years to take care of     to run, play and roll down hills.
money for prizes for the children’s   upcoming reunion details such as       Geauga Park District has done a
games, as well as the ice cream       the park reservation, shelter set-     beautiful job of preserving these
that had been kept cool by dry ice.   up and organizing games and ice        open spaces for the enjoyment of
Most of the reunions would end        cream.                                 generations to come. Our families
by dusk, just as mosquitoes began     Recently, the family sold printed      continue to come from as far
to arrive on the scene.               T-shirts with a maple leaf logo to     away as California for this long-
Many old traditions of this family    its members to raise funds for a       running family reunion. Come on
reunion remain intact to this day.    90-year commemorative plaque for       out and start your own!

                                                      www.geaugaparkdistrict.org • PARKEXPLORER 5
PARKEXPLORER GEAUGA PARK DISTRICT ACTIVITY GUIDE - AWS
Park Spotlight

                                    Spend Some Time

                                       at Big Creek Park
        T here’s good reason Big Creek Park has a fabulous reputation          attracting many species of songbirds that migrate from the
        among hikers.                                                          tropics to nest in mature forests. Small streams divide the
                                                                               uplands, exposing glacial deposits and bedrock in their ravines.
        This trail system is one of the best in the county, with nine routes   And clay slumps and floodplains are home to many distinctive
        totaling 3.8 miles that present a choose-your-own-adventure for        plant species, which Geauga County can feel proud to protect.
        all ages and abilities, including some that were greatly improved
        at the end of 2019!                                                    Facilities here include the brand new Deep Woods Lodge and
                                                                               two shelters, all reservable, as well as the Donald W. Meyer
        Wildflowers abound this time of year. In fact, two of the trails       Administrative Center (open weekdays 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
        are even named for them. For a good challenge, search the map          and Frances S. Hall Amphitheater, home of summertime
        on our website for the mile-long Hemlock Trail. The statewide          performances. Watch for announcements this spring when
        Buckeye Trail travels a portion of the park. And if that’s still not   reservations open for the new “tree house camping” facility, too!
        enough of a hike for you, take your vehicle over to one of the
        separate Tupelo Pond/Bridge Trail entrances for two more trails        You might also make it a point to schedule a springtime
        with 2.9 miles to explore!                                             scavenger hunt seeking the unique new playground near
                                                                               Maple Grove Shelter, new fishing piers, campgrounds, activity
        Then there’s the view. Totaling 644 acres, Big Creek Park is           field backstop, sand volleyball court and tetherball for a
        bisected south to north by Big Creek, creating a landscape of          complete tour of this awesome park close to home.
        varied relief. Most of the land is a rich beech-maple woods,

                                                                                  Field Notes:
                                                                                          Woodland
                                                                                      walks provide
                                                                                    the best chance
                                                                                         of seeing a
                                                                                          variety of
                                                                                       wildflowers
                                                                                    this spring. Get
Photo by Teresa Runion                     Photo by Anne Lynch                            out there!

  6     PARKEXPLORER • www.geaugaparkdistrict.org
PARKEXPLORER GEAUGA PARK DISTRICT ACTIVITY GUIDE - AWS
Introducing new commissioner
                            Pat Preston                                                        bring his diverse knowledge,
                                                                                               appreciation for nature, and
                          Pat Preston,               Through his business, Preston             business experience to the
                          owner of                   has been a mainstay in the                Board.
                          Preston                    community and has supported               “My philosophy on these
                          Superstore                 many community organizations,             unelected local board positions
                          in Burton,                 including Cardinal Local School           is that there should not be
                          was sworn                  District, UH Geauga, the                  only a few people who are
                          in by Judge                Newbury Bicentennial, St. Helen           appointed for a lifetime, and
                          Tim Grendell,              Computer Lab and Geauga                   their three-year terms are
as a Commissioner of the Geauga Park                 County STARS for Autistic                 designed to give other residents
District on December 30, 2019, for a term            children. He even sponsored               an opportunity to play a role in
commencing January 1, 2020 and ending                the Geauga County stop on                 the decision making process for
December 31, 2022. Preston took over for             the Experimental Aircraft                 the parks that they pay for with
Andrej Lah, who completed his term on                Association’s (EEA) national Air          their hard-earned tax dollars.
December 31, 2019.                                   Tour of its 1920s Ford Tri-Motor          I am confident that with this
A Geauga County resident for nearly                  aircraft.                                 new addition to the Board,
30 years, Preston has a long history of              Judge Grendell reflected on his           it will continue to balance
dedication to the community. Preston                 latest appointment this way:              preservation and conservation
said of running Preston Superstore, “It is           “Pat Preston understands the              with recreational uses of the
a lot of responsibility and we take it very          great benefits that our County            parks, and continue to make
seriously. We also contribute where we               Parks provide to Geauga County            our County’s Parks even better
can to make things better.”                          residents. Mr. Preston will               than ever.”

POETRY & PROSE · 3 AGE CATEGORIES · GET PUBLISHED · WIN $ PRIZES                                       Plus, save the date for
                                                                                                              the 29th Annual
Enter Geauga Park District’s 25th Annual
Nature Writing Contest
Entries accepted through May 1
                                                                                                  Sunday, August 2, at Big Creek Park,
Get your application at http://bit.ly/gpdnwc2020                                               including a new-and-improved Nature
or at The West Woods Nature Center or Big Creek Park’s Meyer Center                              Writing Winners Coffeehouse event!

     Thank You                       Debbie Remias
                                     John & Meta Dennis Trust
                                                                       Memorial Bench Plaque - Beartown Lakes Reservation
                                                                       Unrestricted donation
                                                                                                                              500.00
                                                                                                                            39,000.00

  to All of Our                      Scott & Carol Kenney
                                     Geauga Walkers Group
                                                                       Unrestricted donation
                                                                       Unrestricted donation
                                                                                                                               75.00
                                                                                                                              100.00

      Generous                       Christopher Reeder                Engraved paver - The West Woods Nature Center
                                                                       In memory of George L. Reeder                          375.00

        Donors                       Cleveland Foundation
                                     Junction Auto Sales
                                     Louise Foster
                                                                       Lewis & Ruth Affelder Fund
                                                                       Caveman Crawl sponsorship
                                                                       K9 donation
                                                                                                                              470.75
                                                                                                                              500.00
                                                                                                                              150.00
      Donations to                   April Oros                        K9 donation                                             50.00

Geauga Park District                 Geauga Park District patrons
                                     Interstate Towing & Transport
                                                                       K9 donation
                                                                       K9 donation
                                                                                                                              150.00
                                                                                                                              400.00
   November 2019                     Edward Carrol                     K9 donation                                             75.00

           through
     January 2020
                                                                www.geaugaparkdistrict.org • PARKEXPLORER 7
PARKEXPLORER GEAUGA PARK DISTRICT ACTIVITY GUIDE - AWS
APRIL
           Adventure/Discovery                   Arts          Astronomy         Kids        Seniors
                                                                                                                    11 Timbertots: Feathered
     2 Sunset Nature Stroll                                      5 Hypertufa Trough                                 Friends (Ages 3 - 5 w/adult)
    Thursday, April 2, 7- 8:30 PM                UGA G
                                                                Workshop                                            Saturday, April 11, 3 - 4 PM

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                                                                                                                    Big Creek Park, Meyer Center

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    Orchard Hills Park                                          Sunday, April 5, 2- 5 PM,
                                                                                                                    See description for April 10. Registration required.
    Enjoy a beautiful stroll through the park around            Claridon Woodlands
    sunset. We’ll watch for wildlife as some are
    settling down for the night, while others are
                                                                Fee: $33 (county resident), $37 (out of
                                                                county resident) Join artisan Cyndi Konopka
                                                                                                                    11 Nassau Night Sky Viewing
    just getting up. Registration required.                     to create a planter from cement, peat moss          Saturday, April 11, 7-11 PM
                                                                and vermiculite. Fee covers most supplies           Observatory Park, Nassau
     4 Hunter Education                                         (see participant supply list). Dress for mess.      Observe the wonders of the night sky using a
    Course (Day 1)                                              Refreshments served. Registration required.         giant research-grade telescope! If inclement
                                                                                                                    weather, join us for a planetarium presentation in
    Saturday, April 4, 9 AM - 3 PM                               6 Geauga Skywatchers                               the McCullough Science Center instead.
    Big Creek Park, Meyer Center
                                                                Club: The Moon
    Training on hunter safety, archery,
    ammunition, ethics and conservation during                  Monday, April 6, 6:30 - 7:30 PM
                                                                                                                    12 Annual Spring
    this two-day course. Attendance both days                   Bainbridge Public Library                           Bird Walk Series
    (also April 11) is required. Quiz given at the              Phases, eclipses and moonwalks; explore the         Sunday, April 12, 7:30- 9:30 AM
    end of the course. Under age 18 must be                     moon in fascinating detail. Learn about the         Burton Wetlands Nature Preserve
    accompanied by an adult. Registration is                    library’s new telescope-lending program and how     See birds as they return to prime breeding habitat
    required through the Ohio Division of Wildlife              to use a telescope to view the moon. Registration   during spring migration. Experienced leaders will
    at https://oh-web.s3licensing.com/Event/Index.              required at https://geaugalibrary.libcal.com.       assist with observation and identification. Dress for
                                                                                                                    the weather; bring binoculars and bird guide. At
     4 Spring Exploration                                        7 The Full Frog Moon                               different locations April 19, 26, May 3, 10 and 17.
    of the Upper Chagrin                        UGA G
                                                                Tuesday, April 7, 7:30 - 8:30 PM
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    Saturday, April 4,                                          Observatory Park
    10 AM - Noon & 1-3 PM, Offsite                              Come and learn what makes a full moon,              Tuesday, April 14, 1- 2:30 PM
    Hike where marsh marigolds, Virginia bluebells              meet a few frogs, and observe the rising            Headwaters Park, Route 322 Lot
    and other wildflowers carpet the wetlands                   “Frog Moon” using the park telescopes!              Naturalist-led hike 1 to 1 ½ miles long for active
    bordering the Chagrin River. A challenging                                                                      seniors. Call Geauga Senior Center for full
    hike with muddy paths and stream crossings.
    Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear. Park your
                                                                10 Timbertots: Feathered                            schedule, 440-279-2126. Also April 28.

    vehicle and be driven to the start of the hike              Friends (Ages 3 - 5 w/adult)                        16 Elderberries: Nature
    in a park van. Details provided to those who                Friday, April 10, 10 -11 AM &
    register. Registration required.                                                                                Photography & Bird Walk
                                                                1 - 2 PM, The West Woods
                                                                Join Nora the Explorer to discover the amazing
                                                                                                                    Thursday, April 16, 9 -11:30 AM
     4 Egg Hunt: Nature Style                                   lives of birds! Partly outdoors, weather            Frohring Meadows, Katydid Lodge
    Saturday, April 4, 1:30 -3 PM                               permitting; dress accordingly. Older or younger     Discuss tips on how to capture great images,
    The West Woods                                              siblings not considered registered participants.    followed by a bird walk. Begins with pancake
                                                                Registration required. Also April 11.               breakfast. A collaboration with Geauga
    Celebrate spring by following clues indoors
                                                                                                                    Department on Aging and University Hospitals
    and out to hidden eggs and fun facts. Find
    them all and get a fun prize! Drop in anytime                10 Earthquakes in Ohio                             Geauga Medical Center. Registration required.
    during program hours. Scavenger hunts for                   Friday, April 10, 7 - 8 PM
    preschool and school age children.                          Observatory Park
                                                                                                                    17 Astrotots: Satellites,
                                                                Learn the history of Ohio’s earthquakes,
                                                                                                                    Robots & Probes, Oh My!
     5 Bald Eagle Hike                                          followed by telescope viewing until 11 PM,          (Ages 3 -5 w/adult) Friday, April 17,
    Sunday, April 5, 12- 1:30 PM                                weather permitting. Also April 24.                  10 -11 AM & 1-2 PM, Observatory Park
    & 2:30 - 4 PM, Headwaters                    UGA G                                                              Oodles of machines have been rocketed into space.
                                                                 11 Hunter Education
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    Park, Boathouse                                                                                                 Discover cool facts about them and create a fun space
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                                                                Course (Day 2)                                      craft designed by Commander Melvin, our Astrotot
    Learn amazing facts about Bald Eagles
                                                                                                                    mascot. Registration required. Also April 18.
    and hike to an active nest, rain or shine,                  Saturday, April 11, 9 AM - 3 PM
    hopefully to observe eagle activity! Should
    be able to hike two miles over rolling terrain.
                                                                Big Creek Park, Meyer Center                        17 April Evening Adventure
    Registration required.                                      See description for April 4. Registration           Friday, April 17, 7:30 - 9 PM                       UGA G
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                                                                required through the Ohio Division of Wildlife
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                                                                at https://oh-web.s3licensing.com/Event/Index.      Eldon Russell Park
     5 Warbler Warm-up                                                                                              A woodcock air show accompanied by Spring
    Sunday, April 5, 2- 3:30 PM                                  11 Nature Trek                     UGA G           Peeper piping, Barred Owl bantering, beaver
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    The West Woods, Nature Center                                                                                   tail slapping and Great Blue Heron flapping will
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                                                                Fitness Hike                                        culminate in a spring evening hike for families.
    Noted local birders present techniques for
    ID’ing spring warblers using color patterns,                Saturday, April 11, 10 - 11:30 AM
    habitat, behaviors and song. For novice to                  Walter C. Best Wildlife Preserve,                   18 Early Morning
    intermediate birders with handouts provided.                Route 44 Lot                                        Winnowing Walk
    Walk follows to find early songbird migrants.               Welcome springtime by exploring around a            Saturday, April 18, 7- 8:30 AM
    A collaboration with the Audubon Society of                 lake on a paved trail. Held rain or shine, so
    Greater Cleveland.                                                                                              Frohring Meadows
                                                                dress accordingly. Registration required.
                                                                                                                    Witness the amazing courtship flight of a seldom
                                                                                                                    seen wetland species, the Common Snipe. Males
                                                                                                                    perform their unique winnowing displays with
8   PARKEXPLORER • www.geaugaparkdistrict.org                                                                       the sunrise as a backdrop.
PARKEXPLORER GEAUGA PARK DISTRICT ACTIVITY GUIDE - AWS
Fully Accessible      Nature Scopes
                                                                                                                                                        APRIL
18 Astrotots: Satellites,                                    19 Nature Trek                              UGA G               26 Lake Erie Bluffs

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Robots & Probes, Oh My!                                      Fitness Hike                                                    Birding Van Trip

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(Ages 3-5 w/adult) Saturday,                                 Sunday, April 19, 1 - 2:30 PM                                   Sunday, April 26, 6:45 - 11:15 AM
April 18, 10 -11 AM, Observatory Park                        Swine Creek Reservation, Woods Edge                             The West Woods
See description for April 17. Registration                   Learn some cool Nature facts while burning                      Bring binoculars, spotting scopes and cameras
required.                                                    calories! Should be able to hike at least three                 to explore this unique habitat for spring
                                                             miles. Rain or shine; dress accordingly; bring                  migrating birds. Reserve a seat on the van or
18 Signs of Spring Hike                            UGA G
                                                             water. Registration required.                                   drive yourself and meet at Lake Erie Bluffs;

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                                                                                                                             Dress for the weather with sturdy footwear and
Saturday, April 18, 9:30 -11:30 AM
The West Woods, Turkey Ridge Shelter                         23 Maple Town                                                   bring a snack and water. See website for trip
                                                                                                                             details. Registration required.
Hike in search of sights and sounds of spring before         Tune Traders
celebrating the 50th anniversary of Earth Day! Dress         Thursday, April 23, 7-10 PM                                     26 Annual Spring
for the weather with sturdy footwear; 2-3 miles              The West Woods, Nature Center
with hills, rain or shine. Registration required.                                                                            Bird Walk Series
                                                             Come to play, sing or simply enjoy as audience.
                                                             Musicians of all levels, genres and instruments
                                                                                                                             Sunday, April 26, 7:30 - 9:30 AM
18 Earth Day Celebration                                     are welcome. Short performances followed by                     The Rookery
Saturday, April 18, 11 AM - 3 PM                             sharing of songs and tunes in the round. Snacks                 See description for April 12. At different
The West Woods                                               to share welcome.                                               locations 19, May 3, 10 and 17.
Celebrate the 50th anniversary of Earth Day with
live animals, bird banding, wildlife presentations,          24 Earthquakes in Ohio                                          26 Hidden Gems Hike:                               UGA G

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a garlic mustard challenge with prizes, a Nature             Friday, April 24, 7- 8 PM                                       Explore Whitlam Woods
craft, a food truck and more! See website for                Observatory Park                                                Sunday, April 26, 1- 3 PM
schedule of events.
                                                             See description for April 10.                                   Whitlam Woods
18 Scout Day: Junior Girl                                    24 Meet the Artist
                                                                                                                             Discover this often-overlooked hidden gem of
                                                                                                                             a park as we hike its beautiful hemlock ravines,
Scouts - Geocacher Badge                                     Friday, April 24, 7 - 9 PM                                      rain or shine. Ability to hike two miles over hilly
Saturday, April 18, 9:30 - 11:30 AM                          The West Woods, Nature Center                                   terrain. Registration required.
The Rookery, Great Blue Heron Lodge
A morning of high-tech hide and seek as you
                                                             Meet photographer Jim Trombo and view his
                                                             breathtaking collection of Nature photographs
                                                                                                                             26 The Sky Tonight
work toward your badge. Bring your own GPS                   presented on canvas. Refreshments served.                       Planetarium Show
unit or enabled device, or use ours. Registration            Show runs through July 21.                                      Sunday, April 26, 2-3 PM
required by phone only at 440-279-0880.
                                                                                                                             Observatory Park
18 Scout Day: Wolf Cubs                                                                                                      Join us for a planetarium presentation about
                                                                                                                             what to watch for in the night sky this week.
Finding Your Way Elective                                                                                                    Building open house 1-4 PM. Also view the
Saturday, April 18, 1-3 PM                                                                                                   sun using our safe solar-viewing equipment,
The Rookery, Great Blue Heron Lodge                                                                                          weather permitting.
Discover how to use a map and compass to locate
objects and go on a hike. Registration required              25 Lesser Celandine,                                            28 Geauga Walkers
by phone only at 440-279-0880.                               An Undesirable Beauty                                           Tuesday, April 28, 1 - 2:30 PM
                                                             Saturday, April 25, 12:30 - 1:30 PM                             The Rookery
18 Nassau Astronomy Night                                    Orchard Hills Park, Lodge                                       See description for April 14.
with CVAS Saturday, April 18,                                The abundant and beautiful flowers of lesser
7-11 PM, Observatory Park, Nassau                            celandine disguise an invasive, aggressive menace               29 Geauga Cyclists
Join members of the Chagrin Valley Astronomical              to other wildflowers, gardens and lawns in your                 Kickoff & Safety Meeting
Society to take in the wonders of the night sky              neighborhood. Join park staff to learn how to get
                                                                                                                             Wednesday, April 29, 4 - 5 PM
using our amazing 36-inch-telescope! Discover                rid of this plant, benefit your local wildlife, and
this amazing facility and all it has to offer.               help spread the word among your neighbors.                      Chardon Heritage House,
Cancelled if cloudy.                                                                                                         111 E Park St, Chardon, OH 44024
                                                             25 Wildflowers & Invasives                                      Ages 55 and older, join us for a bike safety session
19 Annual Spring                                             Backcountry Hike                                      UGA G
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                                                                                                                             Cyclists! Review basic bike safety in advance of
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                                                             Saturday, April 25, 1:30 - 3:30 PM                              our weekly Geauga Cyclists rides, set for each
Sunday, April 19, 7:30-9:30 AM                               Orchard Hills Park, Lodge                                       Wednesday at 4 PM at Mountain Run Station.
Frohring Meadows                                             A rugged off-trail hike into woodland ravines.
See description for April 12. At different locations         See spring wildflowers and view the invasive,                   29 The Rookery Through
26, May 3, 10 and 17.                                        aggressive lesser celandine. Must be capable                    the Seasons Hike: Spring
                                                             of several miles of off-trail hiking. Dress for the
                                                                                                                             Wednesday, April 29, 6:30 - 8 PM
19 Bald Eagle Van Trip                                       weather; wear sturdy boots for wet terrain.
                                                                                                                             The Rookery, Great Blue Heron Lodge
                                                             Registration required.
Sunday, April 19, Noon - 4 PM                                                                                                Enjoy spring wildflowers such as white trout
The West Woods                                               25 Nassau Night Sky Viewing                                     lily and anemones on this easy hike, one in
Learn amazing facts about Bald Eagles. Search for                                                                            a series to discover the changing flora along
eagle activity and nests located in Geauga County.           Saturday, April 25, 7-11 PM                                     the Interurban Trail. A collaboration with the
Should be able to hike at least 1/2 mile over                Observatory Park, Nassau                                        Native Plant Society of Northeastern Ohio.
rolling terrain. Bring binoculars, spotting scopes           Astronomical Station                                            Registration required.
and cameras, a snack and water. Registration                 See description for April 11.
                                                                                   www.geaugaparkdistrict.org • PARKEXPLORER 9
required.
PARKEXPLORER GEAUGA PARK DISTRICT ACTIVITY GUIDE - AWS
MAY
             Adventure/Discovery                Arts      Astronomy          Kids       Seniors
                                                                                                                         10 Annual Spring
      2 Nature Explorers: All                              6 Geauga Cyclists                                             Bird Walk Series
     About Birds (Ages 6-7 & 8-11)                        Weekly Ride                                                    Sunday, May 10, 7:30 - 9:30 AM
     Saturday, May 2, 1-3 PM                              Wednesday, May 6, 4- 5:30 PM                                   Big Creek Park, Aspen Grove
                                                                                                                         See description for May 3. Also May 17 at
     Big Creek Park, Deep Woods Lodge                     Mountain Run Station                                           different location.
     Find migratory birds returning to their spring/      Ages 55 and older, join this senior bike group
     summer homes, play bird games, and other
     activities indoors and out. Drop-off program.
                                                          riding The Maple Highlands Trail each Wednesday
                                                          at 4 PM. Bring your own bike, helmet and water,
                                                                                                                         10 Mother’s Day
     Registration and waivers required.                   and meet in the parking lot for an escorted ride!              Milkweed Giveaway
                                                          Also May 13, 20 & 27.                                          Sunday, May 10, 10 AM - 12:30 PM
      2 Bilingual Chinese/                                                                                               The West Woods
     English Wildflower Walk                               7 Full Moon Hike                                    UGA G

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     Saturday, May 2, 2-3 PM                              Thursday, May 7, 8:30- 9:30 PM                                 Butterflies. Stop by anytime between the
     The West Woods                                       Observatory Park                                               specified hours and pick up a free pot of native
                                                          Explore the woods and wetlands after dark. A two-              milkweed and/or plant your own seeds to take
     Learn the surprising variety of Ohio’s native                                                                       home and grow. One pot per person.
     spring wildflowers conducted in Mandarin             mile hike over level terrain, searching for nocturnal
                                                          wildlife, then see the rising full moon through
     Chinese and English! Whatever language
     you speak, you’ll discover something new.            telescopes, weather permitting. Registration                   10 Wildflower
     Registration required.                               required for hiking portion.                                   Wanderings Walk
                                                           8 Homeschool Days: Bees                                       Sunday, May 10, 1- 2:30 PM
      3 Annual Spring                                                                                                    Headwaters Park, Rt. 322 Entrance
     Bird Walk Series                                     & Blossoms (Ages 5-7 & 8-12)                                   A naturalist-led hike to one of the best locations
     Sunday, May 3, 7:30- 9:30 AM                         Friday, May 8, 2-3:30 PM                                       in the Park District to find spring-blooming
     Eldon Russell Park                                   Claridon Woodlands                                             wildflowers, 1½ miles along gently rolling
                                                          Learn about pollinators and their importance                   terrain.
     See birds during spring migration as they
     return home to prime breeding habitat.               through hands on activities. Sample some honey
     Experienced leaders will assist with                 too! Adults may attend (need not register) or                  12 Geauga Walkers
     observation and identification. Dress for the        drop off child with waiver. Mostly outdoors;                   Tuesday, May 12, 1- 2:30 PM
                                                          dress for the weather. Registration required.
     weather; bring binoculars and bird guide.                                                                           Big Creek Park, Deep Woods
     Also May 10 and 17 at different locations.
                                                           8 Exoplanets                                                  Naturalist-led hike 1 to 1½ miles long for active
                                                                                                                         seniors. Call Geauga Senior Center for full
      3 Late Afternoon                                    Friday, May 8, 7- 8:30 PM                                      schedule, 440-279-2126.
                                                          Observatory Park
     Tea & Wildflower Walk                                Weird worlds have been discovered outside of                   13 Geauga Cyclists
     Sunday, May 3, 4-5:30 PM
     Big Creek Park, Deep Woods Lodge
                                                          our solar system. Learn about exoplanets and                   Weekly Ride
                                                          how you can participate in the search for more,
     Enjoy a variety of teas and pastries similar to      followed by night sky viewing using the park                   Wednesday, May 13, 4 -5:30 PM
     the British “afternoon tea” time, then go for        telescopes until 11 PM, weather permitting.                    Mountain Run Station
     a short hike to look at wildflowers in bloom.                                                                       See description for May 6.
     Rain or shine. Registration required.                 9 Ansel’s Cave Hike:
                                                          Spring Exploration                          UGA G              15 Mid-May Migrants
      4 Geauga Skywatchers
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                                                          Saturday, May 9, 9 -11 AM
     Club: Astrolabes - Part 1                            The West Woods                                                 Friday, May 15, 7 - 8:30 PM
     Monday, May 4, 6:30-7:30 PM                          Naturalist-led two-mile hike exploring spring                  Holbrook Hollows, Horse Parking Lot
     Geauga West Library                                  sights and sounds at Ansel’s Cave, rain or shine –             Enjoy an evening bird walk and discover what
     Learn about our oldest multifunction                 a rare opportunity to go into this restricted area!            mid-May migrants are passing through this new
     computer, the astrolabe, and discover                Registration required.                                         park. Bring binoculars and bird field guide.
     the secrets it holds. Also learn about the
     library’s telescope-lending program and               9 Wildlife-Friendly                                           16 Hidden Gems Hike:
     basics on how to use a telescope to view             Backyards Van Trip
     the moon. Registration required at https://
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                                                          Saturday, May 9, 1- 4 PM                                       Wonders of Spring!
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     geaugalibrary.libcal.com.
                                                          The West Woods                                                 Saturday, May 16, 9 - 11 AM
      5 Magee Marsh                                       Visit two local backyards which have been                      The Rookery
     Birding Van Trip                                     transformed into wildlife sanctuaries. Explore
                                                          each backyard alongside the homeowners. Dress
                                                                                                                         Discover natural springtime wonders along the
     Tuesday, May 5, 6 AM - 6 PM                                                                                         beautiful trails of The Rookery! Outdoors, so
                                                          for the weather. Registration required.
                                                                                                                         dress for the weather. Registration required.
     The West Woods
     Fee: $10 (Geauga county resident), $25                9 Nassau Night Sky Viewing                                    16 Campfire Cooking:
     (out-of-county resident) Visit one of the best       Saturday, May 9, 9 -11 PM
     bird-watching spots in the country to witness                                                                       Forks & Foil
     spring migration along the shores of Lake            Observatory Park, Nassau
                                                                                                                         Saturday, May 16, 11 AM -1 PM
     Erie. Transportation provided. Naturalists will      Observe the wonders of the night sky using a giant
     assist with bird identification. Bring binoculars,   research-grade telescope! If weather prevents sky              Big Creek Park, Maple Grove
     water and sack lunch. Registration required.         viewing, enjoy a planetarium presentation in the               Get inspired for your next camping adventure!
                                                          McCullough Science Center instead.                             Learn to create foil meals packed with sausage,
                                                                                                                         onions, peppers and other veggies. Hot dogs on
10   PARKEXPLORER • www.geaugaparkdistrict.org                                                                           standby for picky eaters. Registration required.
Fully Accessible        Nature Scopes
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16 Geauga Gems                                        22 Timbertots: Flower Fun                           27 Geauga Cyclists
Trekking Series Hike                        UGA G
                                                      (Ages 3-5 w/adult) Friday, May 22,                  Weekly Ride

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Saturday, May 16, 2- 4 PM                             10-11 AM & 1-2 PM, Headwaters                       Wednesday, May 27, 4-5:30 PM
Big Creek Park, Tupelo Pond                           Park, Crystal Lake Picnic Area                      Mountain Run Station, Parking Lot
Explore the beautiful Creek Trail on this             Find out how flowers can be fun with colors,        See description for May 6.
naturalist-led hike. Hike is at least three miles     counting and exploration! Program outdoors,
over hilly terrain rain or shine; dress accordingly   dress accordingly. Registration required.           27 After Work Wildflower Walk
and bring water. Registration required.
                                                      22 Exoplanets                                       Wednesday, May 27, 6:30 - 8 PM
16 Nassau Astronomy                                                                                       Beartown Lakes Reservation
                                                      Friday, May 22, 7- 8:30 PM
                                                                                                          Enjoy a walk to find late-blooming spring
Night with CVAS                                       Observatory Park                                    wildflowers along wooded trail and wetland
Saturday, May 16, 7-11 PM                             See description for May 8.                          areas. A collaboration with the Native Plant
Observatory Park, Nassau                                                                                  Society of Northeastern Ohio. Registration
Join members of the Chagrin Valley Astronomical       23 Timbertots: Flower Fun                           required.
Society to take in the wonders of the night sky       (Ages 3-5 w/adult)
using our amazing 36-inch-mirrored telescope!         Saturday, May 23, 10-11 AM,                         28 Maple Town Tune Traders
Discover this amazing facility and all it has to      Big Creek Park, Deep Woods                          Thursday, May 28, 7-10 PM
offer. Cancelled if cloudy.                                                                               The West Woods
                                                      See description for May 22. Registration
                                                      required.                                           Come to play, sing or simply enjoy as audience.
17 Annual Spring                                                                                          Musicians of all levels, genres and instruments
Bird Walk Series                                      23 Hound Hike/Pack Walk                             are welcome. Short performances followed by
                                                                                                          sharing of songs and tunes in the round. Snacks
Sunday, May 17, 7:30- 9:30 AM                         with the Chagrin Valley                             to share welcome.
Swine Creek Reservation, Woods Edge                   Beagles
See description for May 3. Also May 10 at
different location.                                   Saturday, May 23, 10 AM - Noon                      30 Exploring the Preserve:
                                                      Sunnybrook Preserve                                 Backcountry Hike                                           UGA G

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                                                      Bring your dog for a spring walk on woodland        Saturday, May 30, 10 AM -Noon
                                                      trails with the wiggly-waggly pack of the           & 1:30 - 3:30 PM
Sunday, May 17, 1- 2:30 PM                            Chagrin Valley Beagles, and some dog training
Burton Wetlands Nature Preserve                       fun led by professional dog trainers. Walkers       Stafford Preserve in Chesterland
Enjoy wildlife and the beautiful surroundings         without dogs also welcome. See website for          Off-trail hike into a mature woodland. See spring
of these tranquil waters. Basic skills required;      details. Registration required; arrive a few        wildflowers, ravines, streams and the history of
instruction not given. Held rain or shine except      minutes early to check in.                          the land. Rugged, wet terrain; must be physically
thunderstorms. Wear shoes to get wet or muddy                                                             capable of several miles of off-trail hiking. Wear
and bring drinking water. Registration required       23 Maple Highlands                        UGA G
                                                                                                          sturdy boots with good traction. Registration
                                                                                                          required. Directions sent after registration.
beginning May 10. Life vests also required.
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19 Blackbrook Audubon:                                Saturday, May 23, 2- 4 PM                           31 Horseback Trail Ride
The Wildlife of Bass Lake                             Mountain Run Station, Chardon                       (Walk, Trot & Canter)
Tuesday, May 19, 7- 9 PM                              Rotary Shelter                                      Sunday, May 31, 10 -11:30 AM
                                                      A two-mile spring hike from Mountain Run            Observatory Park, Cygnus Shelter
Big Creek Park, Meyer Center
                                                      Station to South Street and back again to           Bring your own horse to enjoy the spring
Nature enthusiast Chris Parker has documented         discover the sights and sounds that surround
the wonderful wildlife that occurs at Bass                                                                woodlands from the saddle on this naturalist-led
                                                      us. Registration required.                          trail ride at a walk, trot and canter. See details on
Lake Preserve. Join him to experience his close
encounters with Bald Eagles, river otters,                                                                website. Registration required.
mink, osprey, swans, loons, Prothonotary
                                                      23 Nassau Night Sky Viewing
Warblers and much more. A collaboration with          Saturday, May 23, 9 - 11 PM                          31 Horseback Trail Ride
Blackbrook Audubon Society.                           Observatory Park, Nassau                            (Walk Only)
                                                      See May 9 for description.                          Sunday, May 31, 1-3 PM
20 Geauga Cyclists
                                                      24 The Sky Tonight                                  Observatory Park, Grounds
Weekly Ride                                                                                               Bring your own horse to enjoy the spring
Wednesday, May 20, 4 - 5:30 PM                        Planetarium Show                                    woodlands from the saddle on this walk-only
Mountain Run Station                                  Sunday, May 24, 2- 3 PM                             naturalist-led trail ride. See details on website.
See description for May 6.                            Observatory Park                                    Registration required.
                                                      A planetarium presentation about what to
21 Elderberries:                                      watch for in the night sky. Building open house     31 Frog Fest Hike
Welcome to a Woodland                                 1-4 PM. Also view the sun using our safe solar-     Sunday, May 31, 8-9:30 PM
                                                      viewing equipment, weather permitting.              The West Woods
Thursday, May 21, 11:30 AM-1:30 PM,                                                                                                                    UGA G
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                                                                                                          Enjoy the sights and sounds of
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Claridon Woodlands                                    26 Geauga Walkers                                   spring as we hike the Discovery Trail
Go on a treasure hunt for mysterious boxes
with examples of diverse wildlife to learn their      Tuesday, May 26, 1- 2:30 PM                         in search of frog activity along the trail
                                                      The West Woods, Affelder House                      and in woodland breeding pools, rain or
ecological connections. Light lunch served.
                                                                                                          shine, so dress for the weather.
A collaboration with Geauga Department on             Naturalist-led hike 1 to 1 ½ miles long for
                                                                                                          Approximately 1/2 mile. Flashlights
Aging and University Hospitals Geauga Medical         active seniors. Call Geauga Senior Center for
                                                                                                          recommended. Registration required.
Center. Registration required.                        full schedule, 440-279-2126.

                                                                           www.geaugaparkdistrict.org • PARKEXPLORER 11
JUNE
            Adventure/Discovery                                Arts   Astronomy         Kids        Seniors
                                                                                                                                13 Dragon-Hunting Van Trip:
      1 Geauga Skywatchers                                              6 Basic Learn to Canoe                                  Morgan Park, Portage County
     Club: Astrolabes - Part 2                                         (Ages 10+ w/adult)                                       Saturday, June 13, 12:30 - 4:30 PM
     Monday, June 1, 6:30 -7:30 PM                                     Saturday, June 6, 1- 4 PM                                The West Woods
     Geauga West Library                                               Burton Wetlands Nature Preserve                          Hike in one of Portage County’s newer parks in
                                                                       Learn basic handling techniques for safe                 search of dragonflies and damselflies, exploring
     Learn about our oldest multifunction
                                                                       canoeing on flat water. Ages 10+ w/adult.                meadows, wetlands and surrounding habitats.
     computer, build your own working astrolabe,
                                                                       Phone registration begins May 30. Wear shoes             Bring lunch and water. Registration required.
     and discover the secrets it holds. Also learn
                                                                       to get wet or muddy, and bring water and a
     about the library’s new telescope-lending
     program and some basics on how to use a                           change of clothes. Registration required.                13 Nights Out in the Parks:
     telescope to view the moon. Registration                                                                                   Chardon Polka Band
     required at https://geaugalibrary.libcal.com.                      7 Forest Exploration                          UGA G
                                                                                                                                Saturday, June 13, 7- 8:30 PM
                                                                       & History Hike                                           Big Creek Park, Amphitheater

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                                                                       Sunday, June 7, 11 AM -Noon                              Enjoy your favorite polka tunes with a twist!
     Weekly Ride                                                       Swine Creek Reservation,                                 Refreshments served. Inside if inclement weather.
     Wednesday, June 3, 4-5:30 PM                                      Woods Edge
     Mountain Run Station                                              Explore the forest and learn about this park’s
                                                                                                                                13 Nassau Night Sky Viewing
     Ages 55 and older, join this senior bike                          history and unique features. Approximately               Saturday, June 13, 9-11 PM
     group riding The Maple Highlands Trail each                       1.5 miles of easy to moderate trail.                     Observatory Park, Nassau
     Wednesday at 4 PM. Bring your own bike,                           Registration required.                                   Observe the wonders of the night sky using
     helmet and water, and meet in the parking lot                                                                              this facility’s giant research-grade telescope!
     for an escorted ride! Also June 10,17 & 24.                        7 Family Fun at the Park!                               A planetarium presentation in the McCullough
                                                                       Sunday, June 7, 1- 2:30 PM                               Science Center if inclement weather.
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                                                                       Swine Creek Reservation, Lake Side
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     Friday, June 5, 7- 8 PM                                           Celebrate warm weather with a day outside
     Observatory Park                                                  in the park. Explore the pond, a meadow                  Trail Run & 1-Mile Fun Walk
     June brings late sunsets. Join us for a two-                      and a playground! Some activities might be               Sunday, June 14, 7-11 AM
     mile evening hike to look and listen for                          in wet/muddy areas; dress appropriately.                 The West Woods
     crepuscular wildlife at Observatory Park, then                    Registration required.
     stick around for the full moon program at 9                                                                                Fee: $20 for advance registration
                                                                                                                                Earn a commemorative 10th anniversary
     PM if you’d like. Registration required.                           7 Polliwog Paddle                                       medal just for finishing this year’s one-of-a-
      5 The Full                                                       Family Canoe (Ages 5+ w/adult)                           kind 5K - cave costumes encouraged! Details
                                                                       Sunday, June 7, 2 - 4 PM, Eldon                          and registration at http://bit.ly/gpdcaveman.
     Strawberry Moon                                                                                                            Registration forms also at The West Woods
                                                                       Russell Park, Horwath’s Landing                          Nature Center and Big Creek Park’s Meyer Center.
     Friday, June 5, 9-10 PM                                           Families with children 5 years and older, take           Walkers welcome! Proceeds benefit the Chip
     Observatory Park                                                  an easy-paced, short-distance canoe float on             Henry Institute for Outdoor Adventure.
     June’s full moon is “The Strawberry Moon.”                        the wildlife-rich Upper Cuyahoga River. Phone
     Come and get a taste of some strawberries
     and their history, then watch the full moon
                                                                       registration begins May 31 at 440-279-0880.
                                                                       Registration required.
                                                                                                                                14 Veteran’s
     rise using park telescopes!                                                                                                Appreciation Picnic
                                                                        9 Geauga Walkers:                                       Sunday, June 14, 1- 4 PM
      6 Basic Learn to Kayak                                           Summer Picnic                                            Big Creek Park, Deep Woods Lodge
     (Ages 10+ w/adult)                                                Tuesday, June 9, 12 - 2:30 PM                            Celebrate our veterans on Flag Day with a special
     Saturday, June 6, 9 AM - Noon                                     Frohring Meadows
                                                                                                                                picnic to say thank you for serving our country!
     Burton Wetlands Nature Preserve                                                                                            Veterans, with up to one guest each, are welcome
                                                                       Naturalist-led hike 1 to 1 ½ miles long for active       to enjoy food and fun at this new lodge in Big
     Learn basic kayak-handling techniques                             seniors. Annual picnic with a short hike at noon         Creek Park. Registration required.
     for safe kayaking on flat water. Under 18                         followed by a potluck lunch at 1 PM, bring a
     must be accompanied by an adult. Phone
     registration begins May 30. Wear shoes to
                                                                       dish to share. Call Geauga Senior Center for full
                                                                       schedule, 440-279-2126.
                                                                                                                                14 Cuyahoga Kayak
     get wet or muddy, and bring water and a                                                                                    (Age 12+ w/adult) Sunday, June 14,
     change of clothes. Registration required.                         10 Geauga Cyclists                                       1:30 - 4 PM, Eldon Russell Park
      6 National Trails Days:                                          Weekly Ride                                              Explore the wilds of the Upper Cuyahoga
                                                                                                                                River, home to a wondrous variety of birds and
     Hike Around the Reservoir                                         Wednesday, June 10, 4 -5:30 PM                           beasts. Must have experience. Under 18 must
     Saturday, June 6, 10 AM - 2 PM                                    Mountain Run Station                                     be accompanied by an adult. Registration
                                                                       See description for June 3. Also June 17 & 24.           required beginning June 7.
     Headwaters Park, Rte 608                          UGA G
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     Main Parking Lot                                                   12 How Far Are the Stars?                               16 Toddler Time: Sensing
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     Take a seven-mile hike around                                                                                              the Summer (Ages 1-2 w/adult)
     the East Branch Reservoir, including the                          Friday, June 12, 7- 8:30 PM
     preserve side not normally open to the                            Observatory Park                                         Tuesday, June 16, 10-11 AM
     public. Wooded lanes offer the possibility of                     Find out how humans figured out the distance             Walter C. Best Wildlife Preserve,
     wildlife sightings including eagles and osprey.                   to the stars! If weather permits, program will           Sunset Shelter
     Pack a lunch and water bottle. A short                            be followed by night sky viewing until 11 PM.            Enjoy the start of summer with your little
     portion of the walk will be on Routes 608                         Also June 26.                                            one as we see, smell and touch summertime
     and 322. Registration required.                                                                                            in the park. Strollers and carriers welcome!
12   PARKEXPLORER • www.geaugaparkdistrict.org                                                                                  Registration required.
Fully Accessible      Nature Scopes
                                                                                                                                               JUNE
17 Timbertots: Bees &                                                                                              27 Tree Frogs,
Blossoms (Ages 3-5 w/adult)                                                                                        Tadpoles & Toadlets
Wednesday, June 17, 10 -11 AM                                                                                      Saturday, June 27, 1-3 PM
& 1-2 PM, Frohring Meadows                                                                                         The West Woods, Turkey Ridge
Explore the amazing lives of bees and other                                                                        Discover the tiny toads and tree frogs near
animals that help flowers to bloom through                                                                         their springtime pools, and dip into the water
fun activities and exploration! Older or younger                                                                   with provided nets to find aquatic life while we
siblings will not be considered registered                  23 Geauga Walkers                                      share some natural history of these amazing
participants. Registration required. Also June 20.                                                                 creatures.
                                                            Tuesday, June 23, 1-2:30 PM
17 Geauga Cyclists                                          Observatory Park                                       27 Nassau Night Sky Viewing
                                                            Naturalist-led hike 1 to 1 ½ miles long for active
Weekly Ride                                                 seniors. Call Geauga Senior Center for full            Saturday, June 27, 9-11 PM
Wednesday, June 17, 4 - 5:30 PM                             schedule, 440-279-2126.                                Observatory Park, Nassau
Mountain Run Station                                                                                               See description for June 13.
See description for June 3. Also June 10 & 24.              24 Grandparents in
                                                            the Park: School’s Out!                                27 Moth Madness
18 Elderberries:                                            Wednesday, June 24, 1 - 2:30 PM                        Saturday, June 27, 10 PM - 1 AM
Dragon Hunting                                              Holbrook Hollows                                       Holbrook Hollows
                                                                                                                   Bring your curiosity and a flashlight to the
Thursday, June 18, 9-11:30 AM                               Celebrate the beginning of summer with
                                                                                                                   Old Ironsides Trail to see what species have
Swine Creek Reservation, Lodge                              your grandchildren and a Nature scavenger
                                                            hunt, craft and snack! Mostly outdoors;dress           been attracted to our lights. Naturalists will
No suit of armor needed for these dragons! An                                                                      be monitoring them all night. Cameras also
                                                            for the weather; sandals and flip flops not
up-close chance to see the wonders and variety                                                                     welcome to capture awesome images of some
                                                            recommended. Please bring a snack to share.
of these winged residents. Program begins                                                                          night-flying insects!
                                                            Registration required.
with breakfast. A collaboration with Geauga
Department on Aging and University Hospitals
                                                            24 Geauga Cyclists                                     28 Horseback Trail Ride
Geauga Medical Center. Registration required.
                                                            Weekly Ride                                            (Walk, Trot & Canter)
20 Welcoming Summer Walk                                    Wednesday, June 24, 4 - 5:30 PM                        Sunday, June 28, 10 AM - Noon
                                                            Mountain Run Station                                   Holbrook Hollows
Saturday, June 20, 10-11:30 AM                    UGA G
                                                      EM
                                            GEA

                                                            See description for June 3. Also 10 & 17.              Bring your horse for this naturalist-led walk,
                                                        S

Orchard Hills Park                                                                                                 trot and canter trail ride, moving out together
Take a guided hike to discover this unique                                                                         at a faster pace. See details on website.
park’s many habitats: pond, fields and                      24 The Rookery Through                                 Registration required.
orchards. Approximately 1.5 miles on a gravel               the Seasons Hike: Summer
trail. Registration required.                               Wednesday, June 24, 6:30- 8 PM                         28 The BUZZ About
20 Timbertots: Bees &                                       The Rookery                                            Native Pollinators
                                                            Enjoy blooming wildflowers such as native              Sunday, June 28, 1- 2:30 PM
Blossoms (Ages 3-5 w/adult)                                 honeysuckle, on this walk along the Interurban
                                                                                                                   The West Woods
Saturday, June 20, 3 - 4 PM                                 Trail. A collaboration with the Native Plant Society
                                                                                                                   Not only are insect pollinators important, they
Orchard Hills Park, Lodge                                   of Northeastern Ohio. Registration required.
                                                                                                                   are also remarkable – and important to our
See description for June 17. Registration                                                                          lives! Let’s explore the world of cuckoo bees,
required.                                                   25 Maple Town Tune Traders                             orchard mason bees, leaf-cutter bees and so
                                                            Thursday, June 25, 7-10 PM                             many more. After our indoor presentation, take
20 Movie Night:                                             The West Woods, Nature Center                          a short walk to look for active pollinators.
“Jumanji: The Next Level”                                   Come to play, sing or simply enjoy as audience.
                                                            Musicians of all levels, genres and instruments        28 Horseback Trail Ride
Saturday, June 20, 8-11:30 PM
Observatory Park
                                                            are welcome. Short performances followed by            (Walk Only)
                                                            sharing of songs and tunes in the round. Snacks
Pre-show activities begin at 8 PM and include                                                                      Sunday, June 28, 1- 3:30 PM
                                                            to share welcome.
the Geauga County Public Library’s Fun Bus.                                                                        Holbrook Hollows
Free popcorn and lemonade.
Bring blankets and lawn
                                                            26 How Far Are The Stars?                              Bring your own horse for this walk-only
                                                                                                                   naturalist-led trail ride, enjoying the summer
chairs. Will be shown indoors                               Friday, June 26, 7- 8:30 PM                            woodlands from the saddle at a leisurely pace
if inclement weather. Movie                                 Observatory Park                                       in the company of other riders. See website for
is rated PG-13. Night sky                                   See description for June 12.                           details. Registration required.
viewing after the movie,
weather permitting.                                         26 Epic Firefly Adventure                              28 The Sky Tonight
21 Father’s Day                                             Friday, June 26, 9-11 PM                               Planetarium Show
                                                            Swine Creek Reservation, Lodge                         Sunday, June 28, 2-3 PM
Milkweed Giveaway                                           Fun for all on this good ol’ fashioned lightning       Observatory Park
Sunday, June 21, 10 AM - Noon                               bug hunt. Help capture these elusive insects to        A planetarium presentation about what to
Claridon Woodlands                                          fill a giant jar with light. Begins inside with an     watch for in the night sky. Building open house
Dad likes plants too! To aid the struggling                 amusing presentation on firefly biology. Then          1-4 PM. Also view the sun using our safe solar-
Monarch Butterfly population, we’ll hand out                grab a provided net and head outside!                  viewing equipment, weather permitting.
free pots of native milkweed for you to plant.
One pot per person.

                                                                                   www.geaugaparkdistrict.org • PARKEXPLORER 13
Photos by Abby Smith

                                                                                               Get out for
                                                                                               some fun!
                                                                                                REGISTRATION REQUIRED
                                                                                                   AT 440-286-9516
     Junior Naturalist                                   Adventure Day Camps
     9 AM-4 PM - $150/week                               9 AM-4 PM - $150/week (out-of-county $175/week)
     (out-of-county $175/week)                           Youth entering grades 5 - 7          Teens entering grades 8 - 10
     Youth entering grades 5-7                           Mondays - Fridays:                   Mondays - Fridays:
     Monday-Friday, June 22-26                           June 8 -12; July 6-10; July 13-17;   June 15 - 19
     Ready to explore and learn how to be a              July 27- 31; August 3 - 7            July 20 - 24
     naturalist? Sign up for this exciting week          Are you adventure ready!? When you sign up for       Get ready for an exciting week of exploring,
     of exploring streams, lakes and forests             one of these exciting weeks, you're in for a great   biking, kayaking, fishing, archery, sending
     for exciting wildlife: macro-invertebrates,         time exploring, hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing,   rockets high into the sky and tackling the
     birds, amphibians, insects and more!                sending rockets high into the sky and more!          ropes course at Claridon Woodlands!

        All camps except X-Treme               X-TREME Days 9 AM-4 PM - $30/day                          (out-of-county $35/day)
        Days begin and end each                Teens entering grades 8-10
        day at The West Woods.                 Thursday, July 9                                               Thursday, July 16
        Transportation provided
        to other park locations                X-treme: Kayak Adventure                                       X-treme: High Ropes Adventure
        for activities facilitated             Eldon Russell Park                                             Claridon Woodlands
        by highly qualified staff.             The wilds of the Upper Cuyahoga River are home to a            Meet camp staff at Claridon Woodlands to
        Waivers required of each               wondrous variety of birds and beasts. Embark on a 10-mile      explore the high ropes course that towers
        participant, and other                 adventure discovering plants and wildlife in and along the     more than 30 feet high and features
        details are sent upon                  river. Meet camp staff at Eldon Russell Park and arrange for   10 exciting challenge elements – an
        registration. Each camper              pick-up at Camp Hi Canoe Livery in Hiram.                      adventurous day for sure!
        must daily bring lunch,                                                                               Thursday, July 30
        water and a raincoat in
        a backpack. Sunscreen                                                                                 X-treme: Biking Adventure
        and insect repellent also                                                                             Claridon Woodlands
        suggested. More equipment                                                                             Claridon Woodlands is home base for
        provided and included                                                                                 this biking adventure. Join camp staff
        in the fee. Financial                                                                                 to ride north to Mountain Run Station,
        assistance available; please                                                                          then south to Tare Creek Parkway along
        call for details.                                                                                     The Maple Highlands Trail, an adventure
                                                                                                              totaling 22 miles!

14   PARKEXPLORER • www.geaugaparkdistrict.org
From the Desk of
       THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

              Family Traditions in Nature
I

                                                                                                                               Photo by Holly Sauder
   hope you enjoyed the article about the Covert-Davis family reunions
in this edition of your Park Explorer. Reading about the lasting legacy
of these gatherings reminded me that we truly live in a special county.
With a heritage and legacy dating back to 1927 in Chardon, there must
be something special about Geauga County and this family that keeps
bringing people back. I was thrilled to read about the role Geauga Park
District has played in creating a special place for these reunions, and to
hear stories about their interactions with Nature. It was also fun hearing
about their time spent playing in the parks: on park playgrounds and
utilizing our shelters, creative games and activities crafted by the family,
and of course all of that great food that comes with family gatherings.

At the same time, this family recognizes the importance of protecting
our diverse habitats and ecosystems for many reunions to come. These
happy memories speak volumes to the role parks play in people’s lives,
and Geauga Park District couldn’t be more proud to host the Covert-
Davis family reunion. How exciting to hear they are celebrating their
91st year at Frohring Meadows this year. We hope this tradition of
                                                                                                               Photo by Jim
family and fun continues for years to come.                                                                                   Marquardt

We are entering a new decade. What a perfect time to start a family
tradition of your own. Your parks are waiting for you and your family to
craft a lasting legacy, and one of 25 open parks is waiting to host. With
these plans, you will get the opportunity to hike trails to see beautiful
spring wildflowers, hear a variety of songbirds, and take a moment to
relax and soak in the spring sunshine on a park bench. As winter turns
to spring, a variety of naturalist programs and recreational offerings
also await you. Whatever your spring venture, we hope you get out
often. Get out and play! Get out and enjoy your Geauga parks!

John Oros
Executive Director

Photo by Grace Rybak

                                                                                        Cove
                                                                                            rt-Da
                                                                                                 vis Re
                                                                                                       union

                                                                 www.geaugaparkdistrict.org • PARKEXPLORER 15
Join Geauga Cyclists!
     Seniors ages 55 and older, bring your bike, helmet and water bottle to become part of
     a fun, FREE group that rides Wednesday afternoons along The Maple Highlands Trail.
     Our goal is to make your ride a little more enjoyable, as well as provide someone to ride with who
     can help if you have a problem. Each ride will be led by someone from one of the collaborative
     partners. Cycling is one of the best exercises for aging bodies; it works your cardiovascular
     system to keep your heart healthy. And because cycling is a low-impact sport, it also
     reduces strain on your joints while you exercise.
     For more information, come to the Kickoff & Safety Meeting on Wednesday, April 29,
     at 4 PM at the Chardon Heritage House on Chardon Square. Details on page 9.

      Park Locations and Amenities                                                                             ICONS LISTED AT RIGHT
                                                                                                          IN THE ORDER THEY APPEAR

       Bass Lake Preserve
       11445 Lakeview Road, Munson, 44024
       NO TRAILS AVAILABLE; BOATING BY PERMIT ONLY
       Beartown Lakes Reservation
       18870 Quinn Road, Auburn/Bainbridge, 44023
       TOTAL TRAIL MILEAGE: 2.8

       Bessie Benner Metzenbaum Park
       7940 Cedar Road, Chester, 44026
       TOTAL TRAIL MILEAGE: 1.0

       Big Creek Park
       9160 Robinson Road, Chardon, 44024
       TOTAL TRAIL MILEAGE: 3.8
       Facility reservations are available - call or visit website for details

       Big Creek Park - Horse Trail
       12000 Woodin Road, Chardon, 44024
       Big Creek Park - Tupelo Pond
       9373 Ravenna Road, Chardon, 44024
       TOTAL TRAIL MILEAGE: 2.9

       Burton Wetlands Nature Preserve
       15681 Old Rider Road, Burton/Newbury, 44021
       TOTAL TRAIL MILEAGE: 1.7

       Chickagami Park
       17957 Tavern Road, Parkman, 44021
       TOTAL TRAIL MILEAGE: 1.6

       Claridon Woodlands
       11383 Claridon Troy Road, Claridon, 44033
       TOTAL TRAIL MILEAGE: 2.2
       Eldon Russell Park
       16315 Rapids Road, Troy, 44021
       TOTAL TRAIL MILEAGE: 1.3

       Frohring Meadows
       16780 Savage Road, Bainbridge, 44023
       TOTAL TRAIL MILEAGE: 3.5

       Headwaters Park
       13365 Old State Road, Claridon/Huntsburg, 44021
       TOTAL TRAIL MILEAGE: 3.3

       Holbrook Hollows
       7250 Country Lane, Bainbridge, 44023
       TOTAL TRAIL MILEAGE: 2.8

       The Maple Highlands Trail (TMHT)
       TOTAL TRAIL MILEAGE: 21.1
       City of Chardon: 1.2 and City of Middlefield: 0.5
       Access to trail also from Claridon Woodlands, Headwaters Park &
       Swine Creek Reservation; horses permitted on south section only

       Mountain Run Station - Access to TMHT
       12601 Chardon Windsor Road, Hambden, 44024
       MILEAGE OF LINK ACCESSING TMHT: 0.4

16     PARKEXPLORER • www.geaugaparkdistrict.org
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