Stark Parks offers March outdoor programs

Stark Parks will offer a variety of programs and activities in March, including ranger-led walks, wildlife programs and family-friendly outdoor adventures. Registration information is available at StarkParks.com.

Ranger Walks

Join law enforcement rangers for a one-mile guided walk on the Sandy Valley Trail, meeting at the Maple Street Trailhead on March 4 from 5–6 p.m. Rangers will discuss how they protect wildlife and visitors and the importance of conservation. The program is free, but registration is required.

Backyard Habitat: Intro

This program is part of a series designed to help residents certify their yards as sustainable ecosystems for wildlife. Participants will receive instructions on obtaining Certified Backyard Habitat designation from Stark Parks naturalists. The class will be held March 5 from 6–7:30 p.m. at Sippo Lake Park’s Exploration Gateway. Pre-registration is required.

Species Spotlight: Coyote

Visitors can explore the world of coyotes and learn about enrichment practices at the Wildlife Conservation Center at Sippo Lake Park West on March 7. Drop-in sessions will be offered at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Participants will meet Girlfriend, the park’s resident coyote, and watch a live enrichment demonstration. No registration is required.

Sap to Syrup

A hands-on maple syrup program will be held March 14 from 1–3 p.m. at Quail Hollow Park. Participants can learn about sap tapping, collecting and boiling, and sample syrup. Visitors may explore stations independently or join a guided tour with a naturalist.

Yeti Trail Challenge

The rescheduled Yeti Trail Challenge will take place March 21 at Fry Family Park. The 5-mile course features Yeti-themed challenges along the trail. Doors open at 9 a.m., and participants may begin the course between 9:30 and 10 a.m. The event is open to all ages. Trails are not suitable for strollers and will not be groomed. Pre-registration is required. The fee is $5 per person.

Adventure Kids

Children can learn about amphibians through reading, crafts and an outdoor hike at Sippo Lake Park’s Exploration Gateway. Programs will be held March 18 from 10–11 a.m. for ages 3–5 and March 21 from 1–2 p.m. for ages 6–9. An adult must accompany children. Pre-registration is required.

Signs of Spring Hike

Participants can hike the trails of Walborn Reservoir on March 28 from 2–3 p.m. to look for signs of spring. Pre-registration is required.

Yoga

Certified instructor Kim Kohler will lead hourlong yoga sessions at Sippo Lake Park’s Exploration Gateway on March 2, 7, 14, 16, 21 and 23. Pre-registration is required, and participants must bring a mat. Fees are $8 for in-county residents and $12 for out-of-county residents.

Namaste for a Drink will be held March 9 from 6:30–8 p.m. at Tam O’Shanter Park. Participants must be 21 or older to register.

Stark Parks manages 15 parks, four lakes and more than 120 miles of hiking, biking and equestrian trails across more than 6,800 acres. For more information, visit StarkParks.com.