Find your adventure in Geauga Park District this autumn – first-come-first-served horse-drawn wagon rides, naturalist-led fall foliage experiences, and our annual Space Race, Holly Days Artisan Boutique/Mistletoe Market, and Winter Solstice Celebration, to name just a few!
Here are our offerings for October, November and December 2024. For those requiring it, registration is open now for Geauga County residents online at www.geaugaparkdistrict.org, then opens September 27 at 10 a.m. for out-of-county folks, and can also be done by calling 440-286-9516. Please note that fewer programs now required registration in advance. This should expand opportunities for you and your family and friends to experience naturalist-led hikes and similar programs, keep you off of some lengthy waiting lists, and alleviate the stress of needing to call us to cancel registration when something else comes up and you can no longer attend.
The following list is also published on our website and in our quarterly Park Explorer Activity Guide, which is mailed to every Geauga County household and available to peruse in all county libraries. Please just be sure to check the website for your chosen program or event before heading out, as all are subject to be changed or cancelled. We look forward to seeing you in Geauga Park District this season!
October
Edgar Allan Poe’s Universe
Friday, October 11, 7-8 PM
Observatory Park, Robert McCullough Science Center
Edgar Allan Poe didn’t only write spooky poems, he was also obsessed with astronomy. Explore his mind-bending ideas about the universe! Followed by night sky viewing, weather permitting. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Night Sky Viewing
Friday, October 11, 8-11 PM
Observatory Park, Robert McCullough Science Center
If skies are clear, observe the night sky through the Oberle telescope and other telescopes spaced out around the plaza. Planetarium presentation if cloudy. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Cemeteries of Geauga Van Trip
Saturday, October 12, 9 AM-4 PM
The West Woods
Explore Geauga‘s historic cemeteries on this day-long van trip. Adults only, please. We’ll visit Memorial Cemetery, Welton Cemetery and South Newbury Cemetery, along with several others, making several restroom stops and a break for lunch. Bring a bag lunch, water and snacks. Dress for the weather and wear hiking shoes/boots, as we will get out and walk at each location. Registration required.
ASM International’s Materials Park
Saturday, October 12, 1-2 PM
ASM International
Explore under the geodesic dome at ASM International’s Materials Park! We’ll meet some key minerals in the Minerals Garden, learn the history of the ASM dome, and find out more about the materials that make up our world. Registration required.
Night Sky Viewing
Saturday, October 12, 7-11 PM
Observatory Park, Robert McCullough Science Center
If skies are clear, observe the night sky through the Oberle telescope and other telescopes spaced out around the plaza. Planetarium presentation if cloudy. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Welton’s Gorge Backcountry Gorge Exploration
Sunday, October 13, 9:30 AM-Noon
Welton’s Gorge
Geauga Gems Trekking Series
Take a strenuous off-trail hike into a rocky woodland ravine with deep rock ledges, cool streams, wildflowers, salamanders and other stream life. Must be capable of hiking unassisted over rugged terrain including slippery rocks, downed trees, steep slopes and stream crossings. Held rain or shine, so dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes with good traction even in wet conditions. Bring a walking stick or one will be provided. Long pants recommended. Registration required.
Horse-Drawn Wagon Rides
Sunday, October 13, 1-5 PM
Swine Creek Reservation, Woods Edge
Nature’s Not to Be Missed
Enjoy the sights, sounds and scents of fall with a horse-drawn wagon ride! First-come, first-served boarding. Limited seating. No pets. Rides last about a half hour and are cancelled by bad weather. Last ride leaves at 4:30 PM. Also October 6 & 20.
Howling with Coyotes
Sunday, October 13, 7-9:30 PM
Observatory Park
Nature’s Not to Be Missed
Learn amazing facts about coyotes and hike out to two survey locations to broadcast real coyote recordings into the night with hopes of hearing return calls! Registration required for all attending.
Blackbrook Audubon: Wonderful Woodpeckers
Tuesday, October 15, 7-8:30 PM
Big Creek Park, Meyer Center
Join Blackbrook Audubon Society for a program about woodpeckers. We’ll look at woodpecker identification and the fascinating features of this family of unique birds. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Hawk Watch
Thursday, October 17, 8 AM-Noon
Veterans Legacy Woods
Let’s enjoy the view overlooking the valley of the western branch of the Cuyahoga River and see if we can catch a glimpse of migrating raptors! This is a stationary birding program. Bring binoculars. Registration required.
Elderberries: Horse-Drawn Wagon Ride
Thursday, October 17, 11:30 AM-1:30 PM
Swine Creek Reservation, Woods Edge
Nature’s Not to Be Missed
Seniors, enjoy a naturalist-led horse-drawn wagon ride just for you, as well as the natural wonders of autumn. Lunch sponsored by Burton Healthcare. In collaboration with the Geauga County Department on Aging and UH Geauga Medical Center. Wagon has stairs leading up to bench seating. Registration required.
Full Moon Hike: The Hunter’s Moon
Thursday, October 17, 6:30-7:30 PM
Observatory Park
Join us for this naturalist-led hike of 1.5-miles over level terrain at a gentle pace to experience Nature at night. Then, weather permitting, observe the rising full moon and the night sky using park telescopes.
Inclusive Fall Wagon Ride
Friday, October 18, 10-10:45 AM & 11-11:45 AM
Swine Creek Reservation, Woods Edge
Nature’s Not to Be Missed
A special program for adults in the developmental disability community! Enjoy the wonders of autumn with a naturalist as you ride a wagon pulled by a tractor through the woods. Dress for the weather. Wagon has stairs leading up to bench seating. Picnic shelter will be available for participants who wish to stay after the program. Registration required.
Cross-County Fall Colors Van Trip
Saturday, October 19, 10 AM-3 PM
Big Creek Park, Aspen Grove
Take a naturalist-led van trip to visit areas around the county with spectacular views of fall colors! We’ll start north at Big Creek Park, then head south to end at one of our newest parks, Troy Wetlands. Along the way we’ll stop at other amazing sites, including the spectacular Century Village Museum overlook and a surprise location to purchase a snack or treat. Bring a packed lunch. Registration required.
Introduction to Archery for Families
Saturday, October 19, 10:30 AM-Noon
Chickagami Park, Archery Range
Families with children ages 9+, learn the basics of target archery together. Participants must be 50″ or taller and wear closed-toe shoes. No younger children, please. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Arrive 15 minutes early to walk to the archery range. Registration required for all attending.
Archery Games for Families
Saturday, October 19, 1-2:30 PM
Chickagami Park, Grounds Archery Range
Families with children ages 9+, improve your aim through playing archery games. Must have participated in our Introduction to Archery program and be at least 50” tall to register. No younger children, please. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Arrive 15 minutes early to walk to the archery range. Registration required for all attending.
Accessible Nature Cart Tours
Saturday, October 19, 1-2 PM & 2-3 PM
The West Woods
Our parks are beautiful, but can be a challenge for people with limited mobility. Our cart tours are a terrific way to help you explore the parks! We will make stops to talk about interesting natural and cultural features we discover, all while being out in Nature. Participants must be able to enter and exit a six-seat golf cart. We also ask that participants limit registration to themselves and one guest. Registration required.
Introduction to Archery for Adults
Saturday, October 19, 3-4:30 PM
Chickagami Park, Archery Range
Learn the basics of target archery with other adults. Wear close-toed shoes. Arrive 15 minutes early to walk to the archery range. Registration required.
Headwaters Horse Ride
Saturday, October 19, 3-5 PM
Headwaters Park, Crystal Lake Rt. 608 Parking Lot
Bring your own horse for this leisurely ride on the Buckeye and Maple Bridle trails for a total of approximately 4 miles out and back, enjoying autumn color, views of the reservoir and Nature lore. Expect gravel, bridge crossing, possibly bikes and/or Amish buggies. Helmets encouraged. Bring a shovel to clean up after your horse in the parking lot. Registration required.
Sunset/Moonrise Horseback Ride
Saturday, October 19, 6-8 PM
Headwaters Park, Crystal Lake Rt. 608 Parking Lot
Bring your own horse for this leisurely naturalist-led ride to experience the sights and sounds of autumn as the sun sets and the moon rises over the East Branch Reservoir, a 4-mile out-and-back ride on the Buckeye and Maple Bridle trails. Expect hills, gravel, bridge and stream crossings. Helmets encouraged. Bring a shovel to clean up after your horse in the parking lot. Registration required.
Nassau Astronomy Night with CVAS
Saturday, October 19, 7-11 PM
Observatory Park, Nassau Astronomical Station
Stop in to discover this awesome facility and join members of the Chagrin Valley Astronomical Society taking in the wonders of the night sky using our restored telescope! A limited number of people will be permitted inside the building at a time, which may result in a wait to enter. Cancelled if cloudy; check our website or social media for notice.
Horse-Drawn Wagon Rides
Sunday, October 20, 1-5 PM
Swine Creek Reservation, Woods Edge
Nature’s Not to Be Missed
Enjoy the sights, sounds and scents of fall with a horse-drawn wagon ride! First-come, first-served boarding. Limited seating. No pets. Rides last about a half hour and are cancelled by bad weather. Last ride leaves at 4:30 PM. Also October 6 & 13.
Advanced Odds & Ends Baskets
Monday, October 21, 9:30 AM-4 PM
The West Woods, Affelder House
Fee: $25 Geauga County residents, $30 out-of-county residents
Advanced basket weavers, build on your skills by designing your own pattern to create a small basket. Due to program preparation expenses, a refund may not be processed if cancellation occurs within five days of the program. Registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Advanced Odds & Ends Baskets 2-Day Workshop
Monday, October 21, 6-9 PM
-AND- Tuesday, October 22, 6-9 PM
The West Woods, Affelder House
Fee: $25 Geauga County residents, $30 out-of-county residents
Advanced basket weavers, build on your skills by designing your own pattern to create a small basket. This is a two-day class. Due to program preparation expenses, a refund may not be processed if cancellation occurs within five days of the program. Registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Timbertots: Outstanding Owls! (Ages 3-5 w/adult)
Tuesday, October 22, 10-11 AM & 1-2 PM
Claridon Woodlands, Judge Lester Taylor Lodge
Join Nora the Explorer to discover what makes owls such a hoot with hands-on indoor activities and outdoor exploration. Dress for the weather. Registration required for all attending.
Geauga Walkers
Tuesday, October 22, 1-2:30 PM
Burton Wetlands Nature Preserve
Hike for active seniors of 2 miles. Naturalist leads hikes in Geauga Park District parks. Other hikes held weekly in Geauga County and surrounding areas. Call Geauga Senior Center for full schedule: 440-279-2167.
Nature Explorers: Night Hike (Ages 6-11 w/adult)
Thursday, October 24, 6:30-8 PM
Observatory Park
Experience Nature’s transition from day to night as we take a hike around Observatory Park. The sun sets and stars come out; Grey and Fox Squirrels go to bed; Flying Squirrels start getting active; and songbirds subside as the Barred Owls begin to call. Indoors and outdoors, so dress for the weather. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required for all attending.
Maple Town Tune Traders
Thursday, October 24, 7-9 PM
Veterans Legacy Woods, Freedom Hall
Singers and musicians take turns presenting tunes as others join in. All musical genres, instruments and musicianship levels welcome. Come to play, sing, or simply enjoy as an audience member. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Buckeye Trail Highlight Hike
Friday, October 25, 1-3 PM
Big Creek Park, Maple Grove Parking lot
Geauga Gems Trekking Series
The Buckeye Trail winds nearly 1,444 miles around Ohio. Let’s visit a Geauga Park District park that follows the Blue Blazes. Participants must be able to hike about 3.5+ miles of paved/gravel surfaces. Held rain or shine, so dress for the weather and bring water. Ages 10+ with adult; no younger children, please. Registration required.
Edgar Allan Poe’s Universe (Virtual)
Friday, October 25, 7-8 PM
Edgar Allan Poe didn’t only write spooky poems, he was also obsessed with astronomy. Come explore his mind-bending ideas about the universe! This is a virtual program and we will send you a link a few days before the program. Registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Nature at Night Hike
Friday, October 25, 7-8:30 PM
Beartown Lakes Reservation
Walking through a park in the dark is a unique experience. Even during the calm of early fall, all our senses become enhanced as we hike without the use of lights, making wildlife easier to discover. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Night Sky Viewing
Friday, October 25, 8-11 PM
Observatory Park, Robert McCullough Science Center
If skies are clear, observe the night sky through the Oberle telescope and other telescopes spaced out around the plaza. Planetarium presentation if cloudy. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
The Big Hike at Swine Creek
Saturday, October 26, 9 AM-Noon
Swine Creek Reservation, Woods Edge Parking Lot
Geauga Gems Trekking Series
Hike 5-6 miles on muddy trails with stream crossings and big hills, exploring as many trails as possible and making Nature observations as we go. Registration required.
Timbertots: Outstanding Owls! (Ages 3-5 w/adult)
Saturday, October 26, 10-11 AM & 1-2 PM
The West Woods, Nature Center
Join Nora the Explorer to discover what makes owls such a hoot with hands-on indoor activities and outdoor exploration. Dress for the weather. Registration required for all attending.
Night Sky Viewing
Saturday, October 26, 7-11 PM
Observatory Park, Robert McCullough Science Center
If skies are clear, observe the night sky through the Oberle telescope and other telescopes spaced out around the plaza. Planetarium presentation if cloudy. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
TOP 10 TRAILS Hike: Eagle Trail
Sunday, October 27, 9-10:30 AM
Headwaters Park, Mayfield Road Entrance
Geauga Gems Trekking Series
You voted, and now we hike! Headwaters Park’s Eagle Trail was voted one of the Top 10 Trails in Geauga Park District, so let’s explore this trail together and see what makes it so special.
The Sky Tonight Planetarium Show
Sunday, October 27, 2-2:45 PM & 3-3:45 PM
Observatory Park, Robert McCullough Science Center
Join us for a planetarium presentation about what to watch for in the night sky this week. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Campfire Cooking: Pie Iron Pot Pies
Sunday, October 27, 5-7 PM
Sunnybrook Preserve, Lodge
Fee: $4 Geauga County residents, $6 out-of-county residents
Learn a new outdoor skill and get inspired for your next camping adventure! Pie irons are great for sandwiches and dessert pies. This time we’ll bring back a favorite, the chicken pot pie, and hopefully inspire some ideas for your next outing. Registration required for all participants. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
November
Astrotots: Animals in Space (Ages 3-5 w/adult)
Friday, November 1, 9:30-10:30 AM, 11 AM-Noon, 1-2 PM
Observatory Park, Robert McCullough Science Center
Not all astronauts are people! Many, many different animals have travelled into space! Come learn why and help Commander Melvin decide which creatures have travelled in spaceships. Register just children ages 3-5. Registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Holly Days Artisan Boutique & Mistletoe Market
Friday, November 1, 5-8 PM
Saturday, November 2, 10 AM-4 PM
The West Woods, Nature Center
Browse a premier selection of Nature-themed holiday decor and gifts for sale by regional artisans – the perfect opportunity to find unique, handmade items for everyone on your list! Join us on Friday evening as well as Saturday to enjoy indoor AND outdoor vendors, as well as our Mistletoe Market featuring handmade gifts created by young artisans. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Astrotots XL: Animal Astronauts (Ages 6-11 w/adult)
Saturday, November 2, 9:30-10:45 AM & 1-2:15 PM
Observatory Park, Robert McCullough Science Center
Did you know that a variety of animals have left this planet and travelled in space? Come discover animals’ place in the exploration of space, both yesteryear and in the future!
Register just children ages 6-11. Registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Holly Days Artisan Boutique & Mistletoe Market
Saturday, November 2, 10 AM-4 PM
The West Woods, Nature Center
Browse a premier selection of Nature-themed holiday decor and gifts for sale by regional artisans – the perfect opportunity to find unique, handmade items for everyone on your list! Join us on Friday evening as well as Saturday to enjoy indoor AND outdoor vendors, as well as our Mistletoe Market featuring handmade gifts created by young artisans. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Astrotots: Animals in Space (Ages 3-5 w/adult)
Saturday, November 2, 11:30 AM-12:30 PM
Observatory Park, Robert McCullough Science Center
Not all astronauts are people! Many, many different animals have travelled into space! Come learn why and help Commander Melvin decide which creatures have travelled in spaceships. Register just children ages 3-5. Registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Backcountry Hike
Sunday, November 3, 1-3:30 PM
The Rookery
Geauga Gems Trekking Series
Explore for evidence of wetland wildlife like beavers, otters and herons. Hike more than 2 miles on and off trail with wet, muddy conditions, downed logs and stream crossings. Held rain or shine, so dress for the weather and wear appropriate foot gear. Registration required.
Geauga Skywatchers: Navigate the Night Sky
Monday, November 4, 6:30-7:30 PM
Observatory Park, Robert McCullough Science Center
Enjoy a planetarium program to help you learn to find your way around the night sky. Designed for grades 6-12, but anyone can join. Registration required through Geauga County Public Library’s website. In collaboration with the Chagrin Valley Astronomical Society, Geauga County Public Library, Burton Public Library and Foundation for Geauga Parks. Registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Geauga Walkers
Tuesday, November 5, 1-2:30 PM
Big Creek Park, Aspen Grove
Hike for active seniors of 2 miles. Naturalist leads hikes in Geauga Park District parks. Other hikes held weekly in Geauga County and surrounding areas. Call Geauga Senior Center for full schedule: 440-279-2167.
Early Morning Hike
Thursday, November 7, 8-9:30 AM
Big Creek Park, Aspen Grove
Geauga Gems Trekking Series
Join us for an early-morning up-paced hike with hilly terrain. Held rain or shine, so dress for the weather.
Timbertots: Turkey Time! (Ages 3-5 w/adult)
Friday, November 8, 10-11 AM & 1-2 PM
The Rookery, Great Blue Heron Lodge
What goes gobble gobble and struts around the park? Preschoolers having fun learning about turkeys! Activities will be indoors and out. Registration required for all attending.
Hidden Gems Hike
Friday, November 8, 5-6:30 PM
Sunnybrook Preserve
Geauga Gems Trekking Series
Hike with a naturalist along these beautiful trails to discover some of Nature’s hidden gems! Must have the ability to hike 2 miles over hilly terrain. Held rain or shine. Wear footwear that can get wet and muddy.
Make a Spectroscope
Friday, November 8, 7-8 PM
Observatory Park, Robert McCullough Science Center
Make-and-take a spectroscope and learn how this astronomical tool has let humans study faraway planets, stars and galaxies. Followed by night sky viewing, weather permitting. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Meet the Artists: Vic Weizer & Dwight Boyer
Friday, November 8, 7-9 PM
The West Woods, Nature Center
Vic Weizer has a passion for capturing images of birds of prey in Northeast Ohio. Dwight Boyer has a shared passion, photographing the beauty of wildlife in their natural habitat. Come meet both these talented wildlife photographers and view their work.
Night Sky Viewing
Friday, November 8, 8-11 PM
Observatory Park, Robert McCullough Science Center
If skies are clear, observe the night sky through the Oberle telescope and other telescopes spaced out around the plaza. Planetarium presentation if cloudy. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Scout Day: Wolf Cub Scouts – Finding Your Way Adventure
Saturday, November 9, 10-11:30 AM
Big Creek Park, Meyer Center
Wolf Cub Scouts, learn how to use a map and compass, then use those skills to go on an off-trail hike. Dress for the weather. Registration required for scouts only, but adult leader must attend.
Fire-Building Techniques
Saturday, November 9, 10 AM-Noon
Sunnybrook Preserve, Lodge
Let’s practice some fire-building skills. We will explore modern fire-building techniques, plus ways to improvise a fire-starter in a pinch. Build your fire to roast a marshmallow or two.
Registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Nature Trek Fitness Hike
Saturday, November 9, 1-2:30 PM
Frohring Meadows
Geauga Gems Trekking Series
Let’s move it, people! Burn off those calories on this fitness hike, learning some cool Nature facts along the way. Must be able to hike up to 4.5 miles on various trail conditions. Held rain or shine, so dress accordingly and bring water.
Scout Day: Junior Girl Scouts – Outdoor Art Explorer Badge
Saturday, November 9, 1-3 PM
Big Creek Park, Meyer Center
Junior Girl Scouts, work on your Outdoor Art Explorer badge and explore Nature through art! Partially outdoors, so dress for the weather. Registration required for scouts only, but adult leader must attend.
Night Sky Viewing
Saturday, November 9, 7-11 PM
Observatory Park, Robert McCullough Science Center
If skies are clear, observe the night sky through the Oberle telescope and other telescopes spaced out around the plaza. Planetarium presentation if cloudy. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
