9 Winter Events to Enjoy in Ohio’s Parks

There is so much to see and do during winter in Ohio, and even though the temperatures are low and the snow is piling up, it is one of the most beautiful times to explore our state. Look no further than our regional and state park systems, where hiking trails and nature preserves are filled with frosty branches, snowy scenes and plenty of family-focused events to help you make the most of the season. So bundle up and get ready to explore starting with these events. 

Ice Festival | Jan. 24-25
Frozen fun comes to the Lake Metroparks Farmpark during its annual Ice Festival. The celebration kicks off on Friday evening, when ice-carving demonstrators create stunning works, an ice chair invites fun photo ops with the family and an ice tower is set ablaze. Stick around on Saturday and enjoy cocoa and s’mores around the fire for an additional cost as well as speed-carving demonstrations and trips down the ice slide.

Archery and Fireside S'mores | Jan. 25
Whether you’ve been a longtime archer or are looking to try it for the first time, this afternoon activity is the perfect way to get outdoors and try something new. Upon arrival at the Pearson Metropark sledding hill in Toledo, visitors ages 8 and over can warm up by the fire before trying their hand at archery. A Metroparks Toledo staffer is on-site to provide instruction and guidance and grabbing a s’more is part of the fun. 

Squatch Talk | Jan. 25 
Gather around the fireplace on the second floor of Salt Fork State Park Lodge to hear the legend of Sasquatch. Bigfoot is one of Ohio’s most famous cryptids, and his legend has become a large part of the lore at Salt Fork State Park. During this one-hour talk, guests enjoy an entertaining fireside tale among the comfy confines of the lodge. 

Cowboy Campfire Coffee! | Jan. 26 
Get a taste of the cowboy life, no hats or boots required. Meet at Columbus’ Quarry Trails Metro Parks lower sled hill for this all-ages event that demonstrates how to make cowboy-style campfire coffee. All the materials needed to make the coffee will be provided, but guests are invited to bring their own reusable cups and mugs. 

Try It! Ice Fishing | Feb. 1 
Geared toward the younger crowd, this learning event encourages kids to try their hand at ice fishing. The free, two-hour event catering to ages 5 to 17 teaches kids about ice fishing equipment, technique and safety. Meet in the parking lot at Metroparks Toledo’s Cannonball Prairie Metropark,  dress for the elements and bring a full, reusable bottle of water. It is also important to note that participants ages 16 and 17 must have a valid Ohio fishing license.

Hand-Feed a Chickadee | Select Dates, Feb. 1-23 
This popular, free Cleveland Metroparks event is a regularly scheduled happening at the Brecksville Nature Center. Visit on Saturdays and Sundays in February between 10 a.m. and noon to feed chickadees from the palm of your had. Black oil sunflower seeds are provided, and park staffers provide instruction on proper feeding techniques. 

Eagle Excursion | Feb. 8 
For many birders, seeing an eagle is a bucket list item. While you're not necessarily guaranteed to see a bald eagle along the route, guests on the Eagle Excursion at Lake Hope State Park in McArthur can take an easy, 1.5-mile hike while learning about the life and history of the The naturalist-led hike lasts about an hour. It leaves from the Lake Hope Nature Center and follows along the Moonville Rail Trail.

Cocoa and Constellations | Feb. 13 
Stargazing doesn’t just have to be a summertime activity. Come see the dazzling stars and wintertime constellations at the Cleveland Metroparks’ Ironwood Golf Course in Hinckley. During this free event, sip hot chocolate and listen as naturalist Jenny McClain teaches about the night sky, from constellations to the phases of the moon.

Breakfast and Birding | Feb. 21 
Start your day at Mambourg Park in Lancaster with a light breakfast and a look at the native birds that call the area home. Guests of all ages are welcome to meet at the park’s nature center and watch birds and animals from the comfort (and warmth) of the observation area. While some binoculars will be available to borrow, you can also bring your own. Trail maps are also available for participants who want to bundle up, go outside and get a closer look at the birds. 

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