8 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.

Rockbridge Winter Wander | Jan. 24
Cross our state’s largest natural bridge during this 1.5-mile round trip hike in Rockbridge. This cold weather trek allows participants to learn about Rockbridge State Nature Preserve’s history, as well as get a peek at the birds that call the area home. Make sure to bring appropriate hiking equipment — including but not limited to sturdy boots, trekking poles and water — as the trail is populated with tree roots and hills.

The Beauty of Winter | Jan. 25
Participants meet at the Brecksville Nature Center before beginning this 2.5-mile hike along Brecksville Reservation’s Hemlock Trail. The route makes for a beautiful wintertime journey, with visitors catching a glimpse of Chippewa Creek Gorge and taking the opportunity to spot local wildlife. Make sure to prepare for hills, stairs and the potential for mud or ice along the way.

Sunday Stargazing at Squire’s Castle | Jan. 25
Look to the stars at this Willoughby Hills event designed for astronomy enthusiasts and novices alike. Get a look at Saturn and Jupiter through a telescope and peek at the expansive night sky with a pair of binoculars. Put a camp chair or blanket on your packing list, as well as a reusable mug for grabbing hot chocolate. In the event of inclement weather or clouds, organizers plan to meet at a shelter for star stories and a short hike.

Campfire Cooking | Jan. 30
Come with an appetite to this fireside gathering in Groveport’s Walnut Woods Metro Park. Equipment for cooking over the fire, as well as food for roasting, will be provided by the park. For those interested in participating in this cozy, hour-long get-together, meet in the Tall Pines area.

Annual Clifton Gorge Winter Hike | Feb. 7
If “hike at your own pace” sounds appealing, meet fellow participants in John Bryan State Park’s Orton Lot for a 3-mile trek to Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve. Staff from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources are positioned along the trail, ready to answer questions about the gorge’s natural features. As you hike, historical reenactors share stories about the way back when of the region. Upon reaching the end, participants can treat themselves to snacks and hot beverages at the Clifton Gorge Exploration Center.

Great Backyard Bird Count | Feb. 13-14
Make your way to Lake Hope State Park in McArthur to participate in a global citizen science project. Leading ornithological organizations ask civilians to count and observe birds, and those interested in the effort can meet at the park’s nature center. Binoculars will be provided and there is no prior experience necessary to attend.

Winter Hike | Feb. 21
Hit the trails for a 1-, 3-, 5- or 8-mile hike at Glouster’s Burr Oak State Park. Those who are interested in a naturalist-guided hike can join the 1-mile excursion, and all hikes will start at the park’s picnic shelter. After all is said and done, hikers can warm up with bean soup, cornbread and s’mores around a cozy campfire.