Summit Metro Parks

It’s National Trails Day! So get out there and explore your Metro Parks. With over 150 miles of trails, you’re sure to have fun.

And don’t forget – we’re halfway through Spree for All. Complete five related hikes to win rewards. For details, visit bit.ly/spree-for-all.

Photo by Rob Blair

On the cusp of summer, a solitary figure sets off into unknown lands. At 18 months, it is time for a maturing black bear to leave its mother’s side and seek a new home. Despite their build, black bears tend towards a shy demeanor and plant-based diet, best supported by healthy forests.

Thanks to improving habitat, these once extirpated mammals have returned to Ohio; a testament to the resilience of the species and the power of restoration.

➡️ Join us today for a National Black Bear Day Open House from 12 – 3 p.m. at F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm. Drop in to learn about Ohio’s largest mammal.

➡️ For kids wanting to learn even more, join us on June 8 at 10:30 a.m. for Bears for Kids at Liberty Park Nature Center. Kids and their adult companions will join a naturalist to learn all about bears through fun outdoor activities.

As a conservation agency, Summit Metro Parks is a leader in protecting native biodiversity and providing nature-based solutions for mitigating environmental impact. But we can’t do it alone.

Together, we can reduce waste, conserve energy and support a thriving local ecosystem.

On this World Environment Day, find out how you can live sustainably through actions that support a greener future for our community and wildlife at bit.ly/SMPGreenerFuture.

Photo of spotted sandpiper by Doug Dawes

Don’t forget! Our next book club program is on June 10 at 6 p.m. at Summit Lake Nature Center (411 Ira Ave., Akron). We’ll be discussing “A Sand County Almanac” by Aldo Leopold. Don’t forget to bring your mug — we’ll supply the beverages.

There’s no denying that fishing in your Metro Parks waters is “reel” fun for all ages! With free programs like our Kids’ and Special Needs Fishing Derbies this June plus numerous lakes and ponds perfect for casting on your own, there’s something for every angler to enjoy.

Learn more at https://ow.ly/OVI550YUAxa.

Photo by Jackie Boesinger Meredyk

Our newly restored 1928 Ford Model AA truck is hitting the road this summer. We’ll be at parades, car shows and events throughout Summit County.

Purchased in 2001 by Friends of the Metro Parks and gifted to Summit Metro Parks, the truck symbolizes the more than 100-year history of the park district. Learn more about this historical ride: https://ow.ly/YMFM50Z75jV

Do you love working outside? Do you have a passion for ground maintenance and construction projects? We’re hiring a Park Technician III to help maintain and enhance the park district’s lands and facilities.

For a full job description and instructions on applying, visit bit.ly/SMPcareers.

Imagine Summit County without the parks and experiences so many individuals, families and other groups rely on. Eliminating property taxes without a replacement plan would remove nearly all funding for Summit Metro Parks, threatening trails, park access, educational programming and the natural spaces that make our community special.

Understanding how services are funded helps keep our community informed. Learn more: ProtectPublicServices.org