Medina County parks prepare for fall season with hikes, foliage tour and special events

MEDINA — Cooler temperatures and changing leaves will bring a new season of programming to Medina County parks, with hiking challenges, nature programs, the annual fall foliage tour and family events planned throughout the coming months. The Medina County Park District has more than 80 programs scheduled for September, October and November, offering residents opportunities to explore the parks and learn more about the county's natural and cultural history. One of the district's signature fall programs, Trekking Through Autumn, is celebrating its 20th year. The self-guided hiking program runs through Nov. 30 and challenges participants to complete at least eight designated hikes to earn an award. The program allows hikers to explore different parts of the county at their own pace while experiencing the changing landscape throughout the fall. The district also has several programs planned for those interested in learning more about the region's history and natural environment. On Sept. 25, Folk Stories from the Chippewa Tribes will be held from 7-8:30 p.m. at Krabill Lodge. The program will explore Chippewa constellation figures and the folk stories connected to them. October will bring one of Medina County's longest-running fall traditions, the Medina County Fall Foliage Tour. The annual drive-it-yourself tour will take place Oct. 10 and 11 from noon to 5 p.m. in the Guilford, Montville, Sharon and Wadsworth townships. The tour, which dates to 1968, features stops highlighting Medina County agriculture, education and history. Participants can travel between the locations at their own pace while taking in the fall scenery. For families looking for a Halloween activity, Haunted Hidden Hollow is scheduled for Oct. 31 at Hidden Hollow Camp in Lodi. The free event will feature a hike, a skulls and bones exploration, games, activities, ghost stories around a campfire and treats. The event is open to all ages, and registration is not required. The district's fall calendar continues into November with the 25th annual Nature Art Fest, scheduled for Nov. 14 and 15. The free festival will feature professional artists selling nature-inspired artwork, including paintings, photography, stained glass, pottery, woodwork and jewelry. In addition to special events, the district's parks and trails offer residents opportunities to enjoy the fall season on their own. With the leaves changing and temperatures becoming more comfortable for outdoor activities, the district's fall programming provides several ways for residents to experience Medina County's parks before winter arrives. A complete schedule of programs, along with registration information and details about individual parks, is available through the Medina County Park District. Contact reporter Brooke Adams at (440)-822-8373 or badams@medina-gazette.com.