Find your adventure in Geauga Park District this summer – naturalist-led canoe and kayak floats, archery experiences, Nights Out in the Parks, and night sky viewings at your International Dark Sky Park, to name just a few!
Here are our offerings for July, August and September 2024, minus those with limited space that have already filled. For those requiring it, registration is open now for Geauga County residents online at www.geaugaparkdistrict.org, then opens June 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!
July
Geauga Skywatchers
Monday, July 1, 6:30-7:30 PM
Burton Public Library
Take in an astronomy program; topic to be determined. Designed for grades 6-12, but anyone can join. Registration required through Geauga County Public Library’s website.
Early Morning Hike
Tuesday, July 2, 8-9 AM
Welton’s Gorge
Geauga Gems Trekking Series
Join us for an early-morning, up-paced hike through the field and forest of this beautiful park. Held rain or shine, so dress for the weather. No registration required.
Geauga Cyclists
Tuesdays, July 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30, 9-10:30 AM
Chardon Bike Trailhead, 312 Park Avenue
Seniors enjoy the company of other bike riders on this easy ride along The Maple Highlands Trail. Bring your own bike and water and wear a helmet for safety. Park at the Chardon Bike Trailhead. The trail is flat and ride is approximately 1 1/2 hours long. Rides held every Tuesday May to October in coordination with Geauga Department on Aging, University Hospitals Geauga Medical Campus and the City of Chardon. For details call Melissa Wheeler at the Department on Aging, 440-279-2167. No registration required.
Geauga Walkers
Tuesday, July 2, 1-2:30 PM
Whitlam Woods
Hike for active seniors of 2 miles. Naturalist led. Moderate hilly terrain. Call Geauga Senior Center for full schedule: 440-279-2167. No registration required.
Pond Exploration
Saturday, July 6, 10:30-11:30 AM
Big Creek Park, Aspen Grove
We’ll supply the nets; you supply the curiosity! Learn about pond habitat, then we’ll scoop a net in the pond to discover animal life under the water. No registration required.
Family Stream Adventure
Saturday, July 6, 1-3 PM
Swine Creek Reservation
Venture into a forested stream to discover wildlife such as crayfish, salamanders and crane fly larva. Outdoor family program even in light rain. Dress accordingly and wear shoes or boots for wading in a rocky stream; no sandals, please. Follow park signs toward Swine Creek Lodge and park in areas indicated. Registration required.
Movie Night: “Guardians of the Galaxy”
Saturday, July 6, 8:30-11:30 PM
Observatory Park
Join us for this outdoor screening of Guardians of the Galaxy (PG-13) at this International Dark Sky Park! Bring your own blankets, lawn chairs and refreshments. Pre-show activities begin at 8:30 and movie at dusk, approximately 9:30. Movie shown indoors if inclement weather.
Breeding Birds Van Trip
Sunday, July 7, 8 AM-4 PM
The Rookery
Nature’s Not to Be Missed
Travel with us by park van to Cuyahoga Valley National Park and surrounding natural areas seeking hard-to-find warblers, sparrows and vireos plus our more familiar breeding birds. Bring sack lunch and binoculars and dress for the weather. Adults only, please. Registration required.
Bass Lake Kayak
Sunday, July 7, 10 AM-Noon
Bass Lake Preserve
Spend a morning on the tranquil waters of Bass Lake enjoying the wildlife and beautiful surroundings. Basic kayaking skills required; instruction not given. Rain or shine, except for thunderstorms. Bring drinking water and wear shoes that can get wet or muddy. Registration required beginning June 30 at 10 AM.
Thompson Ledges Hike
Sunday, July 7, 3-4:30 PM
Thompson Ledges Township Park (Thompson Road, just east of the Thompson town square on Rt. 528)
Geauga Gems Trekking Series
Explore the developed part of Thompson Ledges Park south of Thompson Road featuring oak and hemlock forests and unique plant and bird life. Must be capable of hiking several miles of muddy, rocky terrain with some steep slopes. Wear sturdy footwear that can get wet and provide good traction. Meet at picnic shelter. Ages 10+; no younger children, please. Child must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required.
Woodland Hike
Monday, July 8, 9-10:30 AM
Claridon Woodlands
Geauga Gems Trekking Series
Take a morning walk in the cool shade of the woods. We’ll listen for birds, look at trees and plants, and maybe also find a few surprises along the way. No registration required.
Habitat Hike
Wednesday, July 10, 10-11:30 AM
Sunnybrook Preserve
Geauga Gems Trekking Series
Join a naturalist for a late morning walk to explore this beautiful park of many habitats! No registration required.
Astrotots: 3-2-1 Blast-off! (Ages 3-5 w/adult)
Friday, July 12, 11 AM-Noon or 1PM-2PM
Observatory Park, Robert McCullough Science Center
Come SEE a rocket. Come BE a rocket. Come put together a rocket fueled by your own imagination! Come admire Commander Melvin’s rocket collection and help us do the final countdown for a real, onsite air-powered rocket launch. Register only ages 3-5. Registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Make A Sundial
Friday, July 12, 7-8 PM
Observatory Park, Robert McCullough Science Center
Learn the science and art behind making sundials, and take home your own! Followed by night sky viewing, weather permitting. No registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Night Sky Viewing
Friday, July 12, 9-11 PM
Observatory Park
If skies are clear, observe the night sky through the Oberle telescope and other telescopes spaced out around the plaza. Planetarium presentation if cloudy. No registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Hound Hike
Saturday, July 13, 8-9 AM
Welton’s Gorge
Dogs and their humans, join us for a trail hike of over two miles. Cold Nose Companions Dog Training will also share tips and tricks to practice during the hike. Bring dog towels, water, a water bowl, poop scoop and bags for dog clean-up. Only one dog per handler, who must be able to fully control dog, kept on leash at all times (8 ft. max). Dogs must be non-aggressive to people and other dogs. No registration required.
Welton’s Gorge Backcountry Gorge Exploration
Saturday, July 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, 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 walking stick or one will be provided. Long pants recommended. Registration required.
Nights Out in the Parks: Bent String Band
Saturday, July 13, 7 PM-8:30 PM
Big Creek Park, Amphitheater
Enjoy a mix of early American roots music performed by the Bent String Band, including early jazz, acoustic blues and originals…all with the feel of jazz-age swing! Held in the Cherry Room if inclement weather. No registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Night Sky Viewing
Saturday, July 13, 9 PM-11 PM
Observatory Park
If skies are clear, observe the night sky through the Oberle telescope and other telescopes spaced out around the plaza. Planetarium presentation if cloudy. No registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Polliwog Paddle Family Canoe (Ages 5+ w/adult)
Sunday, July 14, 1 PM-3 PM
Eldon Russell Park, Horwath’s Shelter
Take an easy-paced, short-distance float on the wildlife-rich Upper Cuyahoga River. Bring a water bottle, sunscreen and a change of clothes in case of capsize. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required by phone beginning July 7 at 10 AM.
Nature Journaling: Beetles
Sunday, July 14, 1-3:30 PM
The Rookery, Great Blue Heron Lodge
Fee: $20 Geauga residents, $24 out-of-county residents
Attend this monthly series to learn basic journaling techniques to record your Nature observations. This month our inspiration will be the amazing world of beetles. Partially outdoors. Taking photos is optional. First-time participants must pay $20 for Geauga residents or $24 for out-of-county residents to purchase a new journal, pen and other supplies. Those who attended the series before, but not within the calendar year, must pay $10 for Geauga residents or $12 for out-of-county residents to cover additional instruction and supplies. Those who already registered within the calendar year are free. Registration required by phone only. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Drop-in Nature Craft: Pebble Art
Monday, July 15, 2:30-4 PM & 6:30-8 PM
Orchard Hills Park, Lodge
Drop in during program hours to create a piece of art using pebbles while supplies last. Children must be accompanied by an adult. No registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Nature at Night Bike Ride
Monday, July 15, 8-10 PM
Headwaters Park, Bike Trail Parking Lot
Bring your bike and take a leisurely six-mile-round-trip evening bike ride on The Maple Highlands Trail to discover singing birds, flickering fireflies, flying bats and any other wildlife that presents itself as darkness descends. Our electronic bat detector will also be on hand to amplify the echo-location signals sent out by bats as they hunt insects, and our thermal imaging scope to discover unseen wildlife in the darkness. Bring a bike or helmet light since we will be riding after sunset. Cancelled by heavy rain/storms; check website for program status. No registration required.
Archery Practice (Ages 9+)
Tuesday, July 16, 10-10:30 AM
Chickagami Park
These 30-minute sessions are for you to take the next step in improving your aim through practice. Must have participated in one of our archery intro programs to register. Children must be accompanied by adult. Registration required.
Geauga Walkers
Tuesday, July 16, 1-2:30 PM
Russell Uplands Preserve
Hike for active seniors of 2 miles. Naturalist led. Moderate hilly terrain. Call Geauga Senior Center for full schedule: 440-279-2167. No registration required.
Introduction to Archery for Families
Tuesday, July 16, 1-2:30 PM
Chickagami Park
Families with children ages 9+ learn the basics of target archery together. Participants must be 50″ or taller, wear closed-toe shoes and be accompanied by an adult if under 18 years of age. Registration required for all participating.
Archery Games for Adults
Tuesday, July 16, 3-4:30 PM
Chickagami Park
Take the next step in improving your aim through playing archery games. Must have participated in one of our archery intro programs to register. Registration required.
Timbertots: Bees & Blossoms (Ages 3-5 w/adult)
Friday, July 19, 1-2 PM
Orchard Hills Park, Lodge
Explore the amazing lives of bees and other animals that help flowers bloom with fun activities! Registration required for all attending.
Basic Learn to Kayak (Ages 10+ w/adult)
Saturday, July 20, 8-10 AM
Headwaters Park, Boathouse
Learn basic kayak-handling techniques for safe kayaking on flat water. Wear shoes that can get wet or muddy and bring water and a change of clothes in case of capsize. Ages 10+; no younger children, please. Child must be accompanied by an adult. No private kayaks or unregistered people. Registration required beginning July 13 at 10 AM.
Interurban Railroad Hike
Saturday, July 20, 9-11 AM
The Rookery
Geauga Gems Trekking Series
Learn the fascinating history of the Interurban Railroad as we hike along the old railroad bed on-trail approximately 2.5 miles over level terrain. Held rain or shine, so dress accordingly. Cancelled by heavy rain/storms; check website for program status. No registration required.
Timbertots: Bees & Blossoms (Ages 3-5 w/adult)
Saturday, July 20, 10-11 AM & 1-2 PM
Swine Creek Reservation, Woods Edge
Explore the amazing lives of bees and other animals that help flowers bloom with fun activities! Registration required for all attending.
Introduction to Archery for Families
Saturday, July 20, 1-2:30 PM
Chickagami Park
Families with children ages 9+, learn the basics of target archery together. Participants must be 50″ or taller and wear closed-toe shoes. Ages 9+; no younger children, please. Child must be accompanied by an adult. required for all attending.
Introduction to Archery for Adults
Saturday, July 20, 3-4:30 PM
Chickagami Park
Adults will learn the basics of target archery together. Please wear close-toed shoes. Registration required.
Nassau Astronomy Night with CVAS
Saturday, July 20, 8-11 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. No registration required.
Dragon Hunting
Sunday, July 21, 1:30-3:30 PM
Beartown Lakes Reservation, Minnow Pond
Explore the wetland habitats at Beartown Lakes to discover what dragonflies inhabit the area, learn about these amazing insects as you observe their interesting behaviors, and try your hand at catching some! Nets provided; bring your own binoculars, camera, sunscreen and water. Wear sturdy walking shoes (no flip-flops) in case we venture off-trail.
Full Moon Hike: The Green Corn Moon
Sunday, July 21, 9:30-10:30 PM
Observatory Park
Take a naturalist-led hike of 1.5 miles over level terrain at a gentle pace to look for fireflies and experience Nature at night, then observe the rising full moon using park telescopes, weather permitting. No registration required.
Bicycling Basics for Adults
Wednesday, July 24, 6:30-7:30 PM
Mountain Run Station, Chardon Rotary Shelter
Whether you’re new to bicycling or returning to it after a few years, we’ll help you get started. Drop by to get your key measurements, be fitted for a helmet, and take our “balance bike” for a spin. If you have a bike, feel free to bring it along, but we’ll also have several bikes for you to try out! Registration required.
Teen Cuyahoga Kayak Challenge (Teens entering grades 8-10)
Wednesday, July 24, 9 AM-3 PM
Eldon Russell Park, Horwath’s Landing
The wilds of the Upper Cuyahoga River are home to a wondrous variety of birds and beasts. Teens, join a naturalist on this adventure as we paddle our way, discovering plants and wildlife in and along the river. Bring lunch and water bottle in a waterproof bag, as well as sunscreen, insect repellent, and your completed waiver. Registration required.
Grandparents in the Park Summer Picnic
Wednesday, July 24, 11:30AM-1:30 PM
Holbrook Hollows
Grandparents and grandchildren enjoy a day in the park together with a picnic and fun activities for all ages. In collaboration with the Department on Aging. Food and beverages provided. Registration required for all attending.
Drop-in Nature Craft: Nature Prints
Thursday, July 25, 2:30-4 PM & 6:30-8 PM
Claridon Woodlands, Judge Lester Taylor Lodge
Drop in during program hours to create a Nature print wall hanging, while supplies last, and learn fun Nature facts. This craft uses acrylic paints, so dress for a mess. Children must be accompanied by an adult. No registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Maple Town Tune Traders
Thursday, July 25, 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. No registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Basic Learn to Kayak (Ages 10+ w/adult)
Friday, July 26, 6:30-8:30 PM
Headwaters Park, Boathouse
Learn basic kayak-handling techniques for safe kayaking on flat water. Ages 10+; no younger children, please. Child must be accompanied by an adult. No private kayaks or unregistered people. Registration required beginning June 30 at 10 AM.
Make a Sundial (Virtual)
Friday, July 26, 7-8 PM
Learn the science and art behind constructing sundials and get the information you need to make your own! We will send you a link to this virtual program a few days before the program. Registration required.
Night Sky Viewing
Friday, July 26, 9-11 PM
Observatory Park
If skies are clear, observe the night sky through the Oberle telescope and other telescopes spaced out around the plaza. Planetarium presentation if cloudy. No registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Geauga Gems Trekking Series Hike
Saturday, July 27, 9-10:30 AM
Holbrook Hollows
Geauga Gems Trekking Series
Enjoy a morning hike! Must have the ability to hike at least 2 miles with several fairly steep hills. Rain or shine, so dress accordingly and bring water. No registration required.
Introduction to Archery for Kids (Ages 9-16)
Saturday, July 27, 9-10:30 AM
Chickagami Park
Learn the basics of target archery. Participants must be 50″ or taller, wear closed-toe shoes and be accompanied by an adult; not a drop-off program. Registration required for child only.
Archery Practice (Ages 9+)
Saturday, July 27, 10:45-11:15 AM
Chickagami Park
These 30-minute sessions are for you to take the next step in improving your aim through practice. Must have participated in one of our archery intro programs to register. Children must be accompanied by adult. Registration required.
Night Sky Viewing
Saturday, July 27, 9-11PM
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. No registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Important Bird Area Walk
Sunday, July 28, 8-10 AM
Orchard Hills Park
Join Blackbrook Audubon Society on our Important Bird Area (IBA) walks on the fourth Sunday of each month. Good for beginners and experienced birders, and a fun way to learn more bird identification tips firsthand. IBA walks are free and open to all. Bring binoculars and dress for the weather. For more info, visit www.blackbrookaudubon.org. No registration required.
Stream Hike
Sunday, July 28, 1-2:30 PM
Swine Creek Reservation, Valley
Salamanders, minnows, crayfish – there’s so much life to discover in our streams, and of course getting in the water helps beat the summer heat! Wear close-toed creek-walking shoes. We’ll provide the nets and hike down to the stream. Ages 7+; no younger children, please. Child must be accompanied by an adult. No registration required.
Paracord Keychain
Sunday, July 28, 1-2 PM & 2-3 PM
Big Creek Park, Cherry Room
Fee: $8 Geauga residents, $10 out-of-county residents
Choose two awesome paracord colors and learn how to braid the double helix DNA keychain pattern. Cobra knot will be used to make a 4-inch-long keychain, ring included. Registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
The Sky Tonight Planetarium Show
Sunday, July 28, 2-2:45 PM & 3-3:45 PM
Observatory Park, Robert McCullough Science Center
Enjoy a planetarium presentation about what to watch for in the night sky this week. No registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Weave a Waste Basket
Monday, July 29, 9 AM-3:30 PM
Swine Creek Reservation, Lodge
Fee: $35 Geauga residents, $40 out-of-county residents
Skill level: intermediate. Build on your basket-weaving skills while we weave a waste basket with design details. Due to preparation expenses, a refund may not be processed if cancellation occurs within five days of the program. Registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Monarch Egg-Collecting Hike
Tuesday, July 30, 10 AM-Noon & 1:30-3:30 PM
Orchard Hills Park, Lodge
Geauga Gems Trekking Series, Nature’s Not to Be Missed
Hike up to two miles with a naturalist, mostly on-trail but some off-trail as well, to help collect Monarch eggs from milkweed plants, which will be reared and eventually displayed as adult butterflies at The Great Geauga County Fair. Hike will on rolling terrain and held rain or shine. Note park rules forbidding harvesting eggs and caterpillars for personal use. Long pants recommended. Registration required.
Geauga Walkers
Tuesday, July 30, 1-2:30 PM
Chickagami Park
Hike for active seniors of 2 miles. Naturalist led. Call Geauga Senior Center for full schedule: 440-279-2167.
August
Drop-in Nature Craft
Thursday, August 1, 2:30-4 PM & 6:30-8 PM
Veterans Legacy Woods, The Club
Drop in during program hours to create art from Nature, while supplies last, and learn fun Nature facts. This craft may use acrylic paints, so dress for a mess. Children must be accompanied by an adult. No registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Prairie Blooms Hike
Saturday, August 3, 1-2:30 PM
Observatory Park
Take an easy hike to view and identify prairie flowers and grasses at their peak bloom. No registration required.
Family Bingo in the Park
Saturday, August 3, 7-8:30 PM
Observatory Park
BINGO! Join us anytime during program hours for some classic fun as we play bingo with Nature-themed prizes! Fun for all ages, then stay for the evening movie night under the stars. Held in the McCullough Science center if inclement weather. No registration required.
Movie Night: “Migration”
Saturday, August 3, 8:30-11:30 PM
Observatory Park
Head this way for the hit animated feature Migration (PG)! Bring your own blankets, lawn chairs and refreshments. Pre-show activities begins at 8:30 and movie at dusk, approximately 9. Movie shown indoors if inclement weather. No registration required.
Grand River Extreme Kayak for Adults
Sunday, August 4, 9 AM-4:30 PM
Grand River Conservation Campus, Ashtabula County
Endeavor this strenuous day-long paddle for experienced kayakers! We’ll explore the wilds of the Grand River with a wonderful variety of birds, dragonflies, reptiles and other critters. Bring lunch, snacks and a water bottle in a waterproof bag, sunscreen and insect repellent if needed. Previous kayak experience needed; park kayaks provided. Adults only, please. Registration required beginning July 28 at 10 AM.
Welton’s Gorge Backcountry Gorge Exploration
Sunday, August 4, 9-11:30 AM
Welton’s Gorge
Geauga Gems Trekking Series
Take a strenuous off-trail hike into a rocky woodland ravine with deep rock ledges, cool streams, 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.
Accessible Nature Cart Tours
Sunday, August 4, 2-3 PM
Frohring Meadows
Our cart tours enable people with limited mobility to enjoy our beautiful parks. Along the way, we’ll make stops to talk about interesting natural and cultural features. All participants must be able to enter and exit a six-seat golf cart. We ask that participants limit registration to themselves and one guest. Registration required.
Nature Journaling: Fabulous Fungi
Sunday, August 4, 1-3:30 PM
Sunnybrook Preserve, Lodge
Fee: $20 Geauga residents, $24 out-of-county residents
Attend this monthly series to learn basic journaling techniques to record your Nature observations. This month our inspiration will be fabulous fungi. Partially outdoors. Taking photos is optional. First-time participants must pay $20 for Geauga residents or $24 for out-of-county residents to purchase a new journal, pen and other supplies. Those who attended the series before, but not within the calendar year, must pay $10 for Geauga residents or $12 for out-of-county residents to cover additional instruction and supplies. Those who already registered within the calendar year are free. Registration required by phone only.
Nature Adventure Day Camp (Youth entering grades 5-7)
Monday, August 5 – Friday, August 9, 9 AM-3 PM
Claridon Woodlands, Judge Lester Taylor Lodge
Fee: $150 Geauga residents, $175 out-of-county residents
Ready to explore!? Join us for an exciting week of exploring through Nature study and recreational activities. We’ll bike, kayak, try archery, explore and more! Campers will begin and end each day at various parks: Claridon Woodlands on Monday, Headwaters Park on Tuesday and Wednesday, Observatory Park on Thursday, and Chickagami Park on Friday. Schedules, required waivers and other details will be sent at a later date. Bring lunch, water and a raincoat in a backpack for each day’s activities; other equipment provided in the registration fee. Financial assistance available; call for details. Registration required.
Drop-in Nature Craft
Monday, August 5, 2:30-4 PM & 6:30-8 PM
The Rookery, Great Blue Heron Lodge
Drop in during program hours to create art from Nature, while supplies last, and learn fun Nature facts. This craft may use acrylic paints so dress for a mess. Children must be accompanied by an adult. No registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Geauga Skywatchers: The Summer Triangle
Monday, August 5, 6:30-7:30 PM
Bainbridge Library
One patch of the sky, the Summer Triangle, contains a huge collection of amazing sights! From the Milky Way to black holes to exoplanets, this easy-to-find region has a lot to offer. We’ll explore this patch of the summer sky and learn how to take in some of its best features. Designed for grades 6-12, but anyone can join. Registration required through Geauga County Public Library’s website.
Geauga Cyclists
Tuesday, August 6, 13, 20, 27, 9-10:30 AM
Chardon Bike Trailhead, 312 Park Avenue
Seniors enjoy the company of other bike riders on this easy ride along The Maple Highlands Trail. Bring your own bike and water and wear a helmet for safety. Park at the Chardon Bike Trailhead. The trail is flat and ride is approximately 1 1/2 hours long. Rides held every Tuesday May to October in coordination with Geauga Department on Aging, University Hospitals Geauga Medical Campus and the City of Chardon. For details call Melissa Wheeler at the Department on Aging, 440-279-2167. No registration required.
Timbertots: Camp Day (Ages 3-5 w/adult)
Friday, August 9, 1-2 PM
Big Creek Park, Maple Grove
A preschool version of big kid camp with activities, crafts and s’more! Held outdoors, so dress accordingly. Registration required for all attending.
The Summer Triangle
Friday, August 9, 7-8 PM
Observatory Park, Robert McCullough Science Center
Explore the Summer Triangle, a fascinating portion of the night sky including double stars, black holes, the Milky Way, exoplanets and more! Followed by night sky viewing, weather permitting. No registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Night Sky Viewing
Friday, August 9, 9-11 PM
Observatory Park
If skies are clear, observe the night sky through the Oberle telescope and other telescopes spaced out around the plaza. No registration required. Planetarium presentation if cloudy. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Polliwog Paddle Family Canoe (Ages 5+ w/adult)
Saturday, August 10, 10 AM-Noon
Eldon Russell Park, Horwath’s Shelter
Take an easy-paced, short-distance float on the wildlife-rich Upper Cuyahoga River. Bring a water bottle, sunscreen and a change of clothes in case of capsize. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required by phone beginning August 3 at 10 AM.
Celebrating National S’more Day
Saturday, August 10, 6:30-9 PM
Claridon Woodlands
Roast a marshmallow and build a delicious s’more to celebrate National S’more Day, plus learn a bit of s’more history and how this campfire treat became so popular. Registration required for all attending. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Night Sky Viewing
Saturday, August 10, 9-11 PM
Observatory Park
If skies are clear, observe the night sky through the Oberle telescope and other telescopes spaced out around the plaza. Planetarium presentation if cloudy. No registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Lake Kelso Kayak (Ages 10+ w/adult)
Sunday, August 11, 10:30 AM-Noon
Burton Wetlands Nature Preserve, Lake Kelso
Paddle the tranquil waters of Lake Kelso, enjoying the wildlife and beautiful surroundings. Basic kayaking skills required as instruction is not given. All equipment provided. Ages 10+; no younger children, please. Child must be accompanied by an adult. No private boats. Held rain or shine, except in thunderstorm. Registration required beginning August 4 at 10 AM.
Timbertots: Camp Day (Ages 3-5 w/adult)
Sunday, August 11, 1-2 PM & 3-4 PM
Chickagami Park, Overlook Shelter
A preschool version of big kid camp with activities, crafts and s’more! Held outdoors, so dress accordingly. Registration required for all attending.
Moths & Meteors Overnight Event
Sunday, August 11, 9 PM- Monday, August 12, 6 AM
Observatory Park, Grounds
Nature’s Not to Be Missed
Register to bring a tent and spend the night enjoying the Perseid Meteor Shower and the night-flying moths attracted by our black light and mercury vapor lamps! NOTE: Only those who can show receipt of registration will be permitted entry. Best meteor viewing 1-3 AM. Naturalist on site from sunset to sunrise. Camping guidelines: Tents only. Set up Sunday after 4 PM; must remove Monday by 9 AM. No campers, trailers, generators, alcoholic beverages, grills or open fires. Pets must be leashed at all times. Cancelled in case of inclement weather. Registration required for all attendees, up to six people per registration.
Toddler Time: Sensing the Summer (Ages 1-2 w/adult)
Tuesday, August 13, 9:30 -10:30 AM & 11 AM-Noon
The Rookery, Great Blue Heron Lodge
Enjoy experiencing Nature with your little one as we see, smell and touch summertime in the park. Strollers and carriers welcome! Registration required for all attending. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Geauga Walkers
Tuesday, August 13, 1-2:30 PM
Welton’s Gorge
Hike for active seniors of 2 miles. Naturalist led. Moderate hilly terrain. Call Geauga Senior Center for full schedule: 440-279-2167. No registration required.
Introduction to Archery for Adults
Wednesday, August 14, 10:30 AM-Noon
Chickagami Park
Learn the basics of target archery. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes. Registration required.
Archery Practice (Ages 9+)
Wednesday, August 14, 3:45-4:15 PM
Chickagami Park
These 30-minute sessions are for you to take the next step in improving your aim through practice. Must have participated in one of our archery intro programs to register. Children must be accompanied by adult. Registration required.
Nature Break: Women’s Retreat
Saturday, August 17, 8:30 AM-1 PM
Bass Lake Preserve, Lodge
Fee: $8 Geauga residents, $10 out-of-county residents
Take a break and relax in the park with yoga, kayaking and a Nature-related lesson and activity. Continental breakfast and lunch provided. Bring a mat or beach towel and dress in layers. Registration required.
Welton’s Gorge Backcountry Gorge Exploration
Saturday, August 17, 9:30 AM-Noon
Welton’s Gorge
Geauga Gems Trekking Series
Strenuous off-trail hike into a rocky woodland ravine with deep rock ledges, cool streams, salamanders and other stream life. Must be able to hike 2 miles unassisted over rugged terrain including slippery rocks, downed trees, steep slopes and stream crossings. Rain or shine, so dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes with good traction even in wet conditions. Bring a walking stick or we will provide you with one. Wear long pants. Registration required.
Nights Out in the Parks: The Hot Jazz 7
Saturday, August 17, 7-8:30 PM
Big Creek Park, Amphitheater
The Hot Jazz 7 plays furiously fun music in the New Orleans Ensemble Jazz style of the roaring 20s. Join us for an evening of great classic jazz! Held inside if inclement weather. No registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.