Ample ways found to enjoy great outdoors at Metro Parks
Now that September is here and the weather might be starting to cool down, organized hikes are back on the menu at the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks.
The ambitious can take a brisk-paced morning fitness hike at Blendon Woods. More leisurely hikes include one to observe fall migration at Blacklick Woods.
Those looking for a new fall activity can check out geocaching at Glacier Ridge, make a kaleidoscope for Grandparents Day at Inniswood, or try out a stand-up paddleboard at Prairie Oaks Metro Park, with or without canine companionship.
And before the evenings turn too cold, head out for one of the last showings of outdoor movies with “Frozen 2” at Blendon Woods.
h Start your Friday right with a brisk
four-mile fitness hike from 8 to 10 a.m. Sept. 10 at Blendon Woods, 4265 E. Dublin-granville Road, Westerville.
h Stroll through the forest from 9 to 10 a.m. Sept. 11 at Blacklick Woods,
6975 E. Livingston Ave., Reynoldsburg. The one-mile walk will be dedicated to looking for migratory songbirds as well as noticing whatever else is going on in the woods.
h The Metro Parks outdoor movie programs continue from 9 to 11 p.m. Sept. 11 at
Blendon Woods, 4265 Dublin-granville Road, Westerville. Meet at the Picnic Area Lot next to the Ranger Station for a showing of “Frozen 2,” as well as a special frozen treat.
h If you’ve ever been curious about geocaching,
you can meet local enthusiasts and learn about the sport from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Sept. 11 at Glacier Ridge,
9801 Hyland Croy Road,
Plain City, where you’ll learn how to use your smartphone to find “treasure.” It’s recommended that you download a geocaching app and register for a free account ahead of time.
h Ever wonder if stand-up paddleboarding is for you? Find out from 2 to 6 p.m. Sept. 11 at Darby Bends Lake at Prairie Oaks, 2755 Amity Road, Hilliard. Stand-up paddleboards will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Those 10 and older will get a 30minute SUP experience, with instruction and all equipment provided. From 6 to 7 p.m., those 15 and older can take their dogs — who must be wearing wellfitted life jackets provided by owners — out on the lake, and see if they like it.
h Celebrate Grandparents Day from noon to 2 p.m. Sept. 12 at Inniswood Metro Gardens, 940 S. Hempstead Road, Westerville. You’ll be making a kaleidoscope, which you can then take out into the gardens to use, and take home afterward.
All programs are free, and none require pre-registration. For more information and other activities at the parks, visit www.metroparks.net.