Dedicate part of your Saturday, January 17, to connect with Geauga Park District and you won’t be disappointed!
From 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at The West Woods, Stoneflies & Stone Soup brings a brand new spin on experiencing winter in your parks.
First off, what are stoneflies?
“Winter stoneflies are super cool, literally!” says Naturalist Karie Wheaton, who will host. “In their tiny bodies, water can remain in its liquid form below the freezing point of water, a phenomenon called supercooling. So while the rest of their six-legged cousins have different strategies for surviving winter – migrating out of Geauga, hibernating or dying once their eggs have been laid – winter stoneflies use supercooling to survive and even mate during the coldest time of the year.”
This group will hike off trail along a ravine stream in search of moving dark specks on top of the snow. In the event there is deep snow, snowshoes will be available on a first come, first served basis, or you may bring your own.
Then, after the hike, contribute a can of non-cream based soup to the pot, which will be combined with the other hikers’ soups, and warm up with a delicious “stone soup” concoction – a much-loved winter Cub Scout and Boy Scout treat!
The day’s second adventure will be a Winter Campfire & Night Hike from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Orchard Hills Park.
Start your evening around a blazing campfire enjoy the company of the group, a few classic campfire stories and a cozy cup of hot chocolate.
Then journey into the darkness, without flashlights, to explore our senses and how nocturnal animals have adapted theirs to survive and thrive at night. Upon ensuring we can comfortably navigate in the dark, we’ll head back to the campfire before saying good-night.
Registration is not required for either program. Both programs are also Connect with Community-themed, including food drives to collect non-perishable items and help re-stock Geauga Hunger Task Force after the holidays. Please bring something to feel the connection!
The West Woods Nature Center is wheelchair/strolled accessible at 9465 Kinsman Road (Route 87) in Russell Township. Orchard Hills Park is located at 11340 Caves Road in Chester Township.
Also, please dress for the weather. Registration is not required. Call 440-286-9516 with questions.
For more information on the Geauga Park District, check them out online on their website, Facebook page, Twitter, and YouTube.
