Upcoming Programs and Events Page

Events are subject to change. Follow our Facebook page for updates and announcements.

May Programs

Paddle Specialist Volunteer Training (Ages 18+)
Blue Creek, Nona France Quarry Pond boat launch
May 22, 5:30 to 9 p.m.
Reservations Required, Free [REGISTER]

Calling all volunteers! Paddling offers a great way to connect to nature while being active in the parks. Help Metroparks staff introduce new paddlers to the sport while providing a safe, enjoyable experience on the water. Volunteer Paddle Specialists help Metroparks staff set up for programs, assist with safety during paddling programs, and help clean up equipment post program. This training covers paddling safety for both you and the participant and program equipment for kayaking, canoeing, and stand up paddleboarding (SUPs). Additionally, learn necessary paddling skills such as safety considerations, fitting personal floatation devices, and basic strokes. This training is held on land and in water.

Archery Equipment Rentals (Ages 5 and up)
Westwinds, Static Archery Range
May 24, 10 a.m. to Noon or 10:30 am to 12:30 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $8 [ 10 A.M. TO NOON - REGISTER] OR [10:30 A.M. TO 12:30 P.M. REGISTER]

Rent archery equipment to shoot the 3D course. Each participant will need to show proficiency, safety and range etiquette before entering the 3D course. Instruction will take approximately 20 minutes and you can use the equipment for up to 2 hours.

Maumee River Kayak Eco-tour-14.6 Miles (Ages 18 and up)
Providence, Kuhlman’s Landing
May 26, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $85 [REGISTER]

Paddle 14.6 river miles on our very own Maumee River, a State Scenic River, by paddling from Providence Metropark to Side Cut Metropark on the Maumee River Water Trail with a naturalist. Learn about the wildlife that make the Maumee River and floodplain their home and the parks that protect this crucial natural resource along the way. Lunch provided--stop midway for wraps with vegetarian options available. This paddle involves multiple rapids and strenuous paddling. This is not for beginner paddlers.

Wildwood 50^th: Wildwood Night Hike (All Ages)
Wildwood Preserve, Metz Stables parking lot
May 30, 9:30 to 10:30 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $3 [REGISTER]

Take advantage of this rare opportunity to visit the park after hours and join a naturalist for a night hike. Learn about nocturnal animals, the moon, and the night sky. Enjoy activities that heighten your senses and fool your brain. This program runs rain or shine, dress for the weather, bring a reusable water bottle filled with water and minors must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the program.

June Programs

Art Among the Trees (Ages 18 and up)
Pearson, Black Swamp Shelter
June 1, 1 to 2:30 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $6 [REGISTER]

Tune into the sights and sounds of beautiful Pearson Metropark to find nature inspiration for an art creation. Enjoy a guided walk in the woods, then create a watercolor painting. All materials are provided, and no prior painting experience is required. Dress for the weather, as this program takes place outdoors.

Try it! Youth Fishing (Ages 17 and Under)
Cannonball Prairie, parking lot
June 2, 4 to 7 p.m.
No Reservations Required, FREE

Whether you are an experienced angler or trying fishing for the first time, we invite you to reel in Metroparks memories at these youth fishing events. Youth ages 16 and 17 will need to have an Ohio Fishing License. Fishing poles and bait available on a first come, first served basis—anglers are welcome to bring their own equipment. Help protect the balance of this ecosystem by taking all of your live bait home and dumping nothing into the water or onto land. This event runs rain or shine, dress for the weather, wear appropriate footwear, bring a reusable water bottle filled with water and minors must be accompanied by adult for the duration of the program. This is an Open House style – come anytime during the event.

Star Struck: Moon Viewing and Multiple Star Systems (Age 12 and up)
Whitehouse Library
June 2, 10 to 11 p.m.
Reservations Required, FREE [REGISTER]

Peer through a telescope to see the moon in a whole new light. Amateur astronomers John Starr and Jim Gasser will guide a telescope tour of moon features while we learn about the science and lore surrounding our closest celestial neighbor. Bring a camp chair and dress for the weather. Dress for the weather and minors must be accompanied by an adult.

Wildwood 50th: Toddler Trails (Ages 0-3)
Wildwood Preserve, Metz Stables
June 4, 10 to 11 a.m.
Reservations Required, FREE [REGISTER]

Celebrate Wildwood's 50th Anniversary this month at Toddler Trails! This outdoor, multi-sensory nature play and exploration introduces your toddlers up to three years of age to the natural world and promotes its preservation. Adult companions accompany and assist in their child's experience at the program. Register toddlers only.

Tai Chi Practice (Ages 18 and up)
Pearson, Packer-Hammersmith Center
June 4, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Reservations Required, FREE [REGISTER]

Practice your Tai Chi skills and connect to the natural energy flows around you with Certified Tai Chi Instructor Dr. Holly Eichner. This program is for those who have already completed the six-week Tai Chi for Beginners class with Holly. Poses can be accomplished in seated or standing positions. Wear tennis shoes (no sandals) and loose, comfortable clothing that allows your body to move freely. This program will be held outdoors, dress for the weather and bring a reusable water bottle filled with water.

Try it! Sunset Kayaking (Ages 8 and up)
Wiregrass Lake, parking lot
June 4, 8:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $18 [REGISTER]

Kayaking is a fun way to explore the water and stay fit while enjoying nature. Join Metroparks staff to learn basic paddle strokes and give kayaking a try during this beginner friendly 1 hour program at sunset. We recommend you bring a change of clothes and a towel. Dress to get wet and wear synthetic clothing (nylon, spandex, or polyester, no cotton). Wear old tennis shoes, water shoes, or sandals with a heel strap (no flip flops). Bring water and sun protection. Please leave all valuables at home. We will provide all boats, life jackets and other gear. This program runs rain or shine. Minors must be accompanied by an adult.

Seasons Change Forest Therapy (Ages 18 and up)
Swan Creek Preserve, Yager Center parking lot
June 7, 9 to 11:30 a.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $25 [REGISTER]

The end of Spring is a time of transition as Summer approaches. Transform with the land as you immerse yourself in the healing elements of Swan Creek Preserve Metropark and reconnect with your untamed roots through invitations, sharing circles, and a tea gathering led by an Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT)-certified guide. Healthy snacks will follow. Bring an optional sit-upon or lightweight stool, dress for outdoor experiences, and plan for leisurely strolling under 1 mile. Visit https://anft.earth/ to learn more about Forest Therapy. This program runs rain or shine, dress for the weather, wear closed-toed shoes and bring a reusable water bottle filled with water.

3 Mile Hike (Ages 16 and up)
Howard Marsh, parking lot
Saturday, June 7, 10 a.m. to Noon
Reservations Required, Free [REGISTER]

Enjoy hiking around the newest section of the beautifully restored marsh and take a step toward your fitness goals while you're at it! The focus of these hikes will be exercise, but we'll make occasional nature stops. These hikes are brought to you by Metroparks volunteers. If you are interested in becoming a Volunteer Hike Leader, please contact Hannah Gillen at Hannah.Gillen@MetroparksToledo.com or 419-205-7715. This program runs rain or shine, dress for the water and bring a water bottle filled with water.

Science Saturday (All Ages)
Providence, Heritage Center
June 7, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
No Reservations Required, FREE

Do you know the difference between a muskrat and a woodchuck? Do you know why muskrat were so important to the Providence area? You'll get the chance to touch real mammal pelts, learn about the importance of mammals in our ecosystem, and maybe even spot some in the wild.

1-Hour Fitness Hike (Ages 16 and up)
Toledo Botanical Garden, parking lot
Tuesday, June 10, 7 to 8 p.m.
Reservations Required, FREE [REGISTER]

Enjoy the beauty and blooms of Toledo Botanical Garden on this fun fitness hike. The focus of these hikes will be exercise, but we will make occasional nature stops. These hikes are brought to you by Metroparks volunteers. If you are interested in becoming a Volunteer Hike Leader, please contact Hannah Gillen at Hannah.Gillen@MetroparksToledo.com or 419-205-7715. This program runs rain or shine, dress for the weather, wear good hiking boots/shoes and bring a reusable water bottle filled with water.

Explorer Trolley Picnic & Park Tour, supported by Otterbein SeniorLife (All Ages)
Howard Marsh, parking lot
June 11, 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $5 [REGISTER]

Explore Howard Marsh Metropark from the comfort of the open-air Explorer Trolley. Experience the peace of the marsh and search for birds and other wildlife as you ride through this restored wetland with a naturalist. The hour-long tour will pause for a 30-minute picnic in a scenic park location. Explorer Trolley Park Tours are supported by Otterbein SeniorLife. The Explorer Trolley can accommodate two wheelchairs. All other participants must be able to climb two steps. This program runs rain or shine, dress for the weather, minors must be accompanied by an adult, pack your own lunch as food is not provided (optional).

Blacksmithing 101 (Ages 16 and up)
Providence, Isaac Ludwig Mill
Saturday, June 14, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $25 [REGISTER]

Ever wanted to learn how blacksmiths make all those cool designs and bend all that metal? Here’s your opportunity to learn the basics of blacksmithing from one of Ludwig Mill’s master blacksmiths. The lesson includes actual forge work as well as making a project to take with you.

Howard Marsh Phase 2 Kayak Eco-tour (Ages 12 and up)
Howard Marsh, parking lot
June 14, 9:30 a.m. to Noon
Reservations Required, Fee: $32 [REGISTER]

In 2022 Metroparks restored an additional 243 acres of Lake Erie coastal wetlands in the second phase of development at Howard Marsh Preserve Metropark. Experience the peace of the marsh and search for birds and other wildlife as you paddle through this restored wetland with a naturalist. This program runs rain or shine and minors must be accompanied by an adult. We recommend you bring a change of clothes and a towel. Dress to get wet and wear synthetic clothing (nylon, spandex, or polyester, no cotton). Wear old tennis shoes, water shoes, or sandals with a heel strap (no flip flops). Bring water and sun protection. Please leave all valuables at home. We will provide all boats, life jackets and other gear.

Try it! Tree Climbing (Ages 8 and up)
Side Cut, Silver Lake parking lot
June 15, 3 to 4:30 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $32 [REGISTER]

Ready for adventure? Take your love for nature to new heights with our fun and safe tree climbing program! Participants will use harnesses and climbing ropes to get to the treetops. All equipment provided. This program runs rain or shine, dress for the weather and wear closed toed shoes (no flip-flops).

Try it! Kayaking on Father’s Day (Ages 8 and 8 up)
Blue Creek, Nona France Quarry boat launch
Sunday, June 15, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Reservations Required, Free [REGISTER]

Join us in Try it! Kayaking, presented by Mercy Health, for a full mind, body and wellness experience. Kayaking is a fun way to explore the water, stay fit, enjoy nature, and to celebrate father’s day! Learn basic paddle strokes and give kayaking a try during this beginner friendly 1 hour program. 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.

Paint & Sip (Adults and 8+)
Side Cut, Lamb Center
June 16, 6 to 8 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $15 [REGISTER]

Celebrate the start of summer with our guided painting classes. No experience is necessary for this Summer-inspired landscape painting. Learn about the flora and fauna that call our Metroparks home, and then learn how to paint them! We'll provide step-by-step instruction, plenty of time to be creative, and a cup of lemonade! Bring a friend and your comfiest painting clothes. All other materials will be provided. Minors must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the program.

Try it! Canoeing (Families 4+, Dog Friendly)
Side Cut, Silver Lake dock
June 17, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $4 [REGISTER]

Enjoy a relaxing paddle around Silver Lake and learn basic paddle strokes during this beginner friendly 1 hour program. This program is dog friendly for friendly dogs! Participants must be 8 years or older to paddle, minors must be accompanied by an adult. Register all paddlers 8 years and older. Up to two children ages 4 to 7 may ride for free along with two paddlers that are ages 8+. For dog owners: We recommend that you bring a well-fitted dog life vest for your pooch. Please also remember that an important park rule is to keep your pets on a leash. The canoe dock at Silver Lake is accessible. We recommend you bring a change of clothes and a towel. Dress to get wet and wear synthetic clothing (nylon, spandex, or polyester, no cotton). Wear old tennis shoes, water shoes, or sandals with a heel strap (no flip flops). Bring water and sun protection. Please leave all valuables at home. We will provide all boats, life jackets and other gear. This program runs rain or shine. Minors must be accompanied by an adult.

Volunteer Orientation (Ages 12 and up)
Wildwood Preserve, Ward Pavilion
June 18, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Reservations Required, FREE [REGISTER]

Come learn about Metroparks Toledo’s Volunteer Program! Our Volunteer Orientation are not mandatory, but strongly encouraged for new volunteers or people interested in becoming a volunteer with Metroparks Toledo. It is designed to introduce you to our organization, our mission, and the impactful role you’ll play in helping us achieve our goals. During the orientation, you’ll learn about our core values, key programs, and the community we serve. We’ll also provide you with information about various program responsibilities, the expectations we have for volunteers, and the resources available to support you.

You’ll have the opportunity to meet your Volunteer Services staff as well as other volunteers, ask questions, and learn more about the many verities of programs we offer. Whether you’re new to volunteering or experienced, this orientation is your first step toward making a difference in the lives of others.

By the end of the orientation, you’ll have a clear understanding of your volunteer role, know how to make an impact, and be ready to start contributing to our mission. We’re excited to have you on board and look forward to working together to create a clean, safe, and natural park system for all to enjoy.

Camping 101: Oak Openings Family Camp-Out (Ages 4 and up)
Oak Openings Preserve, White Oak Campground
Friday, June 20, 4 p.m. to Saturday, June 21, 10 a.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $30 [REGISTER]

Curious about camping? Join us for an overnight experience just for families at beautiful Oak Openings Preserve Metropark. Make dinner over the campfire, play nature-themed games, explore the park on a guided night hike, and sleep under the stars. Wake up to birdsong and enjoy a continental breakfast before leaving camp with new Metroparks memories!

Archery Equipment Rentals (Ages 5 and up)
Westwinds, Static Archery Range
June 21, 10 a.m. to Noon or 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $8 [10 a.m. REGISTER] [10:30 a.m. REGISTER]

5-Mile Hike (Ages 16 and up, Dog Friendly)
Swan Creek Preserve, Airport Hwy parking lot
Sunday, June 22, 1 to 4 p.m.
Reservations Required, FREE [REGISTER]

Enjoy the summer breeze and the trees while taking a step toward your fitness goals. The focus of these hikes will be exercise, but we will make occasional nature stops. This program is dog friendly for friendly dogs. All dogs must stay on trail and on a 6ft leash for the duration of the program. Participating dogs must be licensed, vaccinated, spayed/neutered and four months of age or older. No more than 2 dogs per person. If any dog is being disruptive or aggressive they will be asked to separate from the group.

Oak Openings Wildflower Walk (Ages 12 and up)
Oak Openings Preserve, Oak Openings Lodge parking lot
June 22, 1 to 2:30 p.m.
Reservations Required, FREE [REGISTER]

Discover the beauty of an Oak Openings prairie in bloom and watch how the flowers change as the season progresses. Register for one or all of these walks led by Ohio Certified Volunteer Naturalists Chris and Randy Haar.

Try it! Tree Climbing, Sunset Climb (Adults and 8+)
Oak Openings Preserve, Buehner Center parking lot
June 27, 8 to 9:30 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $32 [REGISTER]

Ready for adventure? Take your love for nature to new heights with our fun and safe sunset tree climbing program! Participants will use harnesses and climbing ropes to get to the treetops. All equipment provided. This program runs rain or shine, dress for the weather, wear closed toe shoes, no flip-flops.

Try it! Tree Climbing (Ages 8 and up)
Oak Openings Preserve, Buehner Center parking lot
June 27, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $32 [REGISTER]

Try it! Youth Fishing (Ages 17 and Under)
Cannonball Prairie, parking lot
June 28, 9 a.m. to Noon
No Reservations Required, FREE

Stand Up Paddleboarding: Water Games! (Ages 8 and up)
Blue Creek, Nona France Quarry
June 28, 1 to 2:30 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $22 [REGISTER]

Let the games begin! Learn the basics of stand up paddleboarding, then practice your skills by competing in fun games on the water. Work with your team to throw, splash, and maneuver your way to the win! Registration is individual and teams will be formed at the start of the program. Prior stand up paddleboarding experience recommended, but not required. We recommend you bring a change of clothes and a towel. Dress to get wet and wear synthetic clothing (nylon, spandex, or polyester, no cotton). Wear old tennis shoes, water shoes, or sandals with a heel strap (no flip flops). Bring water and sun protection. Please leave all valuables at home. We will provide all boats, life jackets and other gear. This program runs rain or shine. Minors must be accompanied by an adult.

Explorer Trolley Park Tour 1920x1080.jpg

Staff can adapt many programs to be accessible to anyone who would like to participate. Please tell us your needs at the time of registration, but no later than 72 business hours prior to the program. For additional information or questions, please contact Metroparks staff by calling 419-407-9700 or by using the 'contact us' form at MetroparksToledo.com. All other participants must be able to climb two steps. Program runs rain or shine, dress for the weather and minors must be accompanied by an adult.

Supported by Otterbein SeniorLife

Explorer Trolley Picnic & Park Tour (All Ages)
Howard Marsh, parking lot
June 11, 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $ [REGISTER]

Explorer Trolley Picnic & Park Tour (All Ages)
Side Cut, Riverview parking lot
July 18, 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $5 [REGISTER]

Explore Side Cut Metropark from the comfort of the open-air Explorer Trolley. A naturalist will take you on an hour-long ride highlighting plants and animals that make their home along the mighty Maumee River. The tour will pause for a 30-minute picnic in a scenic park location.

Explorer Trolley Picnic & Park Tour (All Ages)
Glass City, Market Hall
August 20, 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $ [REGISTER]

Explore Glass City Metropark from the comfort of the open-air Explorer Trolley. A naturalist will take you on an hour-long ride highlighting some of the historical components of Glass City. The hour-long tour will pause for a 30-minute picnic in a scenic park location.

Explorer Trolley Night Ride (All Ages)
Pearson, Macomber Lodge parking lot
September 9, 8:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $ [REGISTER]

Explore Pearson Metropark after dark from the comfort of the open-air Explorer Trolley. A naturalist will take you on an hour-long ride highlighting nocturnal animals and nighttime nature in the Great Black Swamp.

Fall Color Explorer Trolley Picnic & Park Tour (All Ages)
Secor, Secor Center parking lot
October 29, 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $5 [REGISTER]

Explore Secor Metropark from the cozy fall comfort of the open-air Explorer Trolley. A naturalist will take you on an hour-long ride highlighting the colorful sights, sounds, and smells of the fall season. The hour-long tour will pause for a 30-minute picnic in a scenic park location.

---

Celebrate Blue Week! Explorer Trolley Park Tour (All Ages)
Oak Openings Preserve, parking lot
May 3, 3 to 4 p.m.
Reservations Required, Fee: $5 ; [REGISTER]

Celebrate Blue Week and explore Oak Openings Preserve Metropark from the comfort of the open-air Explorer Trolley. A naturalist will take you on an hour-long ride highlighting the blue plants and animals that help make this globally rare region so unique.