MEDINA, Ohio — Fall has arrived, so it’s time to dig out your winter fleeces, coats and vests and enjoy the frosty weather in the great outdoors.
The Medina County Park District (MCPD) has planned both gentle and ambitious hikes for you this November.
There are also indoor programs for those who wish to avoid the brisk weather.
Here are some events to check out:
A Healthy Dose of Nature: 10 a.m. to noon Nov. 2, Buckeye Woods Park, 6335 Wedgewood Road in Medina.
MCPD offers beautiful views, fresh air, the sounds and scents of nature — and hiking, which is good for you.
Hiking is great for your heart, blood pressure and muscles, and reduces symptoms of stress and anxiety.
Join a naturalist for a 3- to 5-mile vigorous hike. Dress for the weather, wear appropriate footwear and bring a bottle of water.
Meet at the ball fields. Ages 10 to adult. No registration required. Free.
Fun Family Fotos: 1 to 4 p.m. Nov. 3, Oenslager Nature Center, 6100 Ridge Road in Sharon Township.
Photographers of the Parks (POTP) is offering this event at the reasonable cost of $20 for three completed photos.
Club members will take several portraits of you and yours in front of a “green screen.” (Pets are not allowed at the nature center, so please leave Fido at home.)
You will have the opportunity to pick the background for your photos from five creative options.
Photos will be edited to insert into your selected background, and digital files will be emailed to you so that you may send them to a printing service of your choice.
Advance registration is needed to determine an approximate session time.
Email [email protected] with questions or for advance registration. Walk-ins are welcome and will be fit into the schedule in the first available time slot.
Proceeds from this event will benefit POTP.
Nature Art Fest: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 9 and noon to 4 p.m. Nov. 10, Oenslager Nature Center.
The 23rd annual Nature Art Fest will feature unique items inspired by nature from professional artists. From paintings to stained glass, you’ll find unusual holiday gifts for everyone on your list.
Bring the family and spend the day in one of the most beautiful parks in the county.
All ages welcome. No registration required. Free.
Underappreciated Animals: Noon to 5 p.m. Nov 9, 10, 16 and 17, Susan Hambley Nature Center, 1473 Parschen Blvd. in Brunswick.
Carrion, bugs and vermin, oh my! These dietary staples paint many incredibly helpful creatures in a bad light.
Drop by to learn about these misunderstood animals and leave with a new appreciation — and a fun craft.
All ages welcome. No registration required. Free.
Senior Strides: 10 to 11 a.m. Nov. 12, Brunswick Lake Trail, 1473 Parschen Blvd. in Brunswick. (Meet in the Cleveland Clinic parking lot next to Panera).
Join park volunteer Connie for a social hike for seniors. It’s a great opportunity to make new friends — and get your exercise at the same time.
Walks are 1 to 2 miles in length. Dress for the weather and wear appropriate footwear.
Ages 50 and older. No registration required. Free.
Natural Discoveries: 10 to 11 a.m. Nov. 13, Letha House Lodge (West), 5800 Richman Road in Spencer.
Join the staff for an easy walk to observe the unfolding of nature.
Ages 7 to adult. No registration required. Free.
Cornucopia of Caring: 2 to 4 p.m. Nov. 16 and 17, Oenslager Nature Center.
Stop by the nature center to make a seasonal craft for yourself and a second one to help fill the cornucopia that will be donated to those in need of some holiday cheer.
All ages welcome. No registration required. Free.
A Healthy Dose of Nature: 10 a.m. to noon Nov. 21, Sharon Nature Preserve, 6734 State Road in Sharon Township.
Join a naturalist for a 3- to 5-mile vigorous hike. Ages 10 to adult. No registration required. Free.
S’more Birds: 1 to 3 p.m. Nov. 23, Oenslager Nature Center.
Join the staff to learn about winter bird feeding, look for birds and enjoy s’mores over a fire.
All ages welcome. No registration required. Free.
Natural Discoveries Hiking Series — Turkeys: 3 to 4 p.m. Nov. 24, Oenslager Nature Center.
The center is one of the better park locations to spot these iconic birds, making it a great place to talk turkey.
Pull on your hiking boots and gobble ‘til you wobble. Ages 7 to adult. No registration required. Free.
For a complete list of park programs, check out www.medinacountyparks.com.
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