Discover the health benefits of nature through the Mind, Body & Spirit program series of free outdoor programs designed to support mental clarity, reduce stress, and improve physical health, all through time in nature. From forest therapy to quite paddling experiences to family backpacking trips in the woods, this year-round series invites you to explore meaningful ways to recharge in the outdoors. Each experience is guided by Metroparks outdoor experts and supported by health professionals from Mercy Health.
Programs are FREE, but reservations are required. All are welcome!
Winter Woods Mindfulness Night Hike (All Ages)
Oak Openings Preserve, Beach Ridge Area, The Wheelhouse
Saturday, February 21, 6:30 to 9 p.m.
Oak Openings Preserve Metropark, Beach Ridge Area, Wheelhouse
Registration Required, FREE
Join us in Winter Woods Mindfulness Night Hike, presented by Mercy Health, for a full mind, body and wellness experience. Explore the winter woods at night with a self-guided mindfulness walk through the beautiful Oak Openings Preserve Metropark. Hikers will follow a marked trail at their own pace, with mindfulness stops and prompts along the way to encourage nature enjoyment.
Come to the Wheelhouse early from 6:30-7PM and chat with cardiologists at Mercy Health; Dr. Hemindermeet Singh, Dr. Guneet Ahluwalia, and Dr. Khalid Minhas. If you would like to hike in a large group, the 7PM session will be open to as many hikers that would like to join. The remaining sessions will be smaller for those that would like to hike in smaller groups or on their own.
At the end of your hike stop by the Wheelhouse for a campfire, s'mores and conversation with other hikers.
This free program is part of a collaborative campaign between Metroparks Toledo and Mercy Health that promotes the power of parks in improving the community’s mental and physical well-being.
6:30-7PM, Chat with three cardiologists at Mercy Health inside the Wheelhouse.
7:00 PM, Large hiking group leaves, open to as many hikers that would like to join. [REGISTER]
7:30 PM, Small hiking group leaves, open to 12 people only. [REGISTER]
7:45 PM, Small hiking group leaves, open to 12 people only. [REGISTER]
9:00 PM, Trail, s’mores, and Wheelhouse close.
Beverages are available for purchase at the Wheelhouse.
Metroparks Eco-Therapy Experience (Ages 16 and up)
Farnsworth, Roche de Bout
Saturday, March 7, 10 to 11 a.m.
Reservations Required, FREE [REGISTER]
Join us at Metroparks Eco-Therapy Experience, presented by Mercy Health, for a full mind, body and wellness experience. Connect with the land as you immerse yourself in the healing elements of nature. Take a mindful moment to enjoy the beauty of the Maumee River and reconnect with your untamed roots through invitations and sharing circles.
This free program is part of a collaborative campaign between Metroparks Toledo and Mercy Health that promotes the power of parks in improving the community’s mental and physical well-being. Bring an optional sit-upon and plan for leisurely strolling under 1 mile.
Stay after the Eco-Therapy Experience and warm up in the beautiful Roche de Bout to do a free diabetes screening and chat with Mercy Health experts to celebrate Kidney Health Month.
UPDATED: 02/05/2026
Learn more about the Metroparks Toledo and Mercy Health partnership.