Medina County Park District offers full lineup of October events

From spooky train rides and owl prowls to leaf hunts and not-so-creepy crawlies, the Medina County Park District has filled October with programs for all ages.

The month begins with A Healthy Dose of Nature: Hiking Series Oct. 4 at Allardale Park, where naturalists will lead a vigorous three-to-five-mile hike through the trails. Participants should dress for the weather, wear sturdy shoes and bring water. The ongoing hiking series continues Oct. 16 at the Chippewa Rail Trail.

Later that same day, the district will mark its 60th Anniversary Celebration and Park Perks Challenge Prize Collection Day at The Lodge at Allardale from 1 to 4 p.m. The family-friendly party features hayrides, games, face painting, magic shows, live music and raffle prizes. Visitors can also turn in Park Perks Challenge forms to claim rewards, with Moonstone Coffee on site serving warm drinks.

Families looking for fall fun will find plenty of seasonal activities. On Oct. 11-12 and again Oct. 18-19, the Susan Hambley Nature Center hosts Not-so Creepy Crawlies, a Halloween-themed open house with displays, games and activities that shed light on bats, skeletons, bugs and other critters.

Trains take center stage Oct. 17 and 18 with the return of Northeastern Ohio Live Steamers: Halloween All Aboard! at Lester Rail Trail. The free miniature train rides delight kids and adults alike, and children are encouraged to wear costumes — as long as they avoid long, flowing garments for safety.

Nature enthusiasts can also lend a hand with restoration efforts during Native Seed Collection events, scheduled Oct. 5 at Letha House Park East and Oct. 16 at the Medina Soil and Water Conservation District. Volunteers age 16 and older will collect seeds from native plants for future planting projects, supporting local habitats.

For those who prefer quieter walks, Natural Discoveries offers guided strolls focused on seasonal changes in the parks. October’s lineup includes a session at Green Leaf Park on Oct. 8 and a special themed hike, Slither and Slime, on Oct. 26 at Plum Creek Park North. The award-winning program series is designed for ages 7 and up.

Animal lovers have multiple opportunities to connect with wildlife this month. Dog owners can gather Oct. 12 for K-9 Kapers at Princess Ledges Nature Preserve, a chance for pups and their people to socialize while exploring the trails. On Oct. 25, the Ohio Owls program at Oenslager Nature Center invites families to learn about these nocturnal hunters during an evening hike through the Pine Forest.

Young children can enjoy the season too with Tales for Tots Oct. 23 at Oenslager Nature Center. The program for ages 3-6 pairs a story and craft with a short outdoor walk to celebrate autumn’s sights and sounds.

Other October highlights include the Narrating Nature Book Club Forest Hike Oct. 12 at Hubbard Valley Park, Senior Strides Oct. 14 at Schleman Nature Preserve, and a hands-on look at bones and forensics during Skulls, Bones, and Skeletons Oct. 31 at Krabill Lodge.

The month also offers special opportunities for hobbyists. The Photographers of the Park Club Meeting Oct. 26 at Oenslager Nature Center welcomes shutterbugs of all skill levels to share tips, network and focus on nature photography.

All programs are free unless otherwise noted, though some require advance registration. Space and supplies may be limited.

A full schedule of October events, including details on registration deadlines, is available at www.medinacountyparks.com.