How to beat the cold: Metro Parks Edition

Blog by: Ali Iovino, Photos by: Kathleen O’Dowd

It’s the most wonderful time of the year.... Metro Parks’ Winter Hike Series season! Even in the cold the parks offer plenty to enjoy in the winter months. We encourage everyone to visit the snowscapes, winter wildlife, and new perspectives of your favorite trails. Here are some of our tips and tricks to overcoming the cold, drab weather and onto your winter adventure:

Make it fun:
The Winter Hike Series rewards park goers that visit 7+ parks in the winter
months. Visit the site to download your park passport and get it stamped at each park you visit. The Friends of the Metro Parks even offers of the opportunity to earn a walking stick or medallion if you conquer every park and have a current $10+ membership – learn more here. You will see both Metro Parks and Friends of Metro Parks out at January and February events, although you can visit any park at any time to count it towards your passport!

Dress Warm:
This seems obvious, but the right gear makes all the difference. Hats, scarves, ear warmers, cold-weather insoles for your shoes and extra cozy socks! Accessorize with hand warmers – either the one-time-use or rechargeable ones. Our Friends over at Public Lands, REI, and Jack Wolfskin can help get you set up for the season.

Drink Warm:
Bring some coffee or hot cocoa with you on the trail or make a plan to snuggle up with a toasty beverage after your park experience! Visit our Friends at Roaming Goat Coffee, Crimson Cup, or One-Line Coffee. Prefer a brew to warm up instead after your hike? Visit our Friends at Nocterra, Land-Grant, BrewDog, or Wolf’s Ridge Brewing.

Explore shorter trails:
Still not built for the cold? Try out some of the shorter trails. You don’t need to
explore a long distance to enjoy some beautiful views and wildlife in the parks!

Continue learning:
The Metro Parks curate fabulous programs year-round. Visit their site to search for upcoming programs and activities. Keep warm in some of the indoor offerings in nature centers.

We hope you enjoy the rest of the winter season and join us at our Winter Hike
Celebration on Sunday, February 23, 2025 11am-3pm at Blacklick Woods Golf
Course. In the meantime, don’t forget to tag us in your metro park adventures!

Scioto Fest 2024!

Climbing, Concerts, and a Cold One… It’s Scioto Fest!

Scioto Fest has grown over the years into a huge Metro Parks event, and Friends of Metro Parks has been through them all! Scioto Fest originally started as the “Climbing Festival,” a fun way to support the Scioto Audubon Climbing Community, and get a little something extra out of the event. We served beer and merch at the first climbing festivals, which we continue to do now, but at a much larger scale.

Scioto Fest started small, but as we started to gain traction, we introduced music, vendors, and beer partners, including a special beer made just for Scioto Fest as a collaboration between Friends of Metro Parks and local breweries.

Our first foray into brewery partnerships was with Land Grant. For Scioto Fest, they made they made “Outpost,” a Rustic Honey Lager made with Metro Parks harvested honey! From there, we moved on to “Wandering Monarch,” a collaboration beer between Land Grant and Nocterra. This year, after Nocterra moved in right next door to Scioto Audubon Metro Park, we got the collab beer “On Belay”

This year, we were excited to have performances by Later Gator, A Band Called Dreamland, and Ramblewood. There were over 100 people who pitched tents and camped under the stars, and we introduced more vendors than ever to our Friday and Saturday vendors aisle. This is a huge change from the early years of the climbing festival, where we had a couple hours to climb the wall, and a spotify playlist doing all the work.

We want to thank all of the volunteers who came out to serve beer, sell tokens and t-shirts, and help staff the climbing portion of the event!

We are excited to keep up the collaborations and partnerships between Friends of Metro Parks and local breweries and businesses. If you own a local business and you are interested in partnering with Friends of Metro Parks, please reach out to friends@metroparks.net.

Hidden Gems: An Off-Trail Wetlands Hike at Glacier Ridge Metro Park

On an overcast Saturday morning, August 31, 2024, I had the privilege of joining a Friends-only Hidden Gem Hike at Glacier Ridge Metro Park. This exclusive, off-trail wetlands exploration promised to reveal surprising relics of the past and showcase the park's rich biodiversity—and it didn't disappoint.

Under the late-morning sun, our small group ventured just off the multi-use trail into the woods, where we stumbled upon an unexpected surprise: two abandoned vehicles nestled in the landscape. A vintage car and the shell of an old school bus stood as silent witnesses to the land's history. Our naturalist guides explained that these remnants likely date back to when the area was farmland, predating the park's establishment. These unexpected artifacts, hidden within the park's natural landscape, truly embodied the essence of a hidden gem.

As we hiked, the naturalist guides regaled our group with fascinating pieces of the park's history. Glacier Ridge Metro Park, which opened in 2002, owes its existence to the generosity of two local farmers who offered their lands to become a Metro Park. Throughout our morning, we encountered scattered relics of this agricultural past, bringing the guides' stories to life. A particularly striking example was an old apple tree standing near the water's edge, serving as a living link to the land's farming heritage.

Armed with binoculars, we delved deeper into the vibrant ecosystem of Glacier Ridge's wetlands. Our group excitedly documented a green heron perched in the trees, painted turtles basking on the shore, and black swallowtail butterflies fluttering among fields of golden goldenrod. These sightings highlighted the healthy aquatic life and biodiversity thriving in the park's protected wetlands. Our guide explained that these areas, typically off-limits to regular visitors, are carefully preserved to maintain the delicate balance of the ecosystem.

This Hidden Gem Hike, available exclusively to Friends of the Metro Parks, offered a unique opportunity to explore these restricted areas and discover secrets of the park that few visitors get to see. It's experiences like these that make being a Friend of the Metro Parks so rewarding. We not only gained special access but also a deeper appreciation for the park's conservation efforts.

Ready to unlock these hidden experiences? Sign up to be a Friend for as little as $10 at metroparksfriend.org. Not only will you gain access to exclusive hikes like this one, but you'll also be supporting the preservation and enhancement of these vital natural spaces in our community. 

-Amanda Engen
Friends of Metro Parks Board Member

Blendon Woodstock: A Celebration of Community and Disc golf

We are thrilled to share the success of our recent event, Blendon Woodstock, held at Blendon Woods Metro Park. This inaugural festival was a remarkable celebration that united the disc golf community and local residents in a vibrant and engaging atmosphere.

The day began with a thrilling Disc Golf Tournament at one of the Metro Parks’ courses, where players showcased their skills across the beautiful landscape of Blendon Woods. Following the tournament, attendees were treated to a lively festival featuring live music from local bands, a variety of food trucks, and a beer tent offering local craft beers.

In addition to the competitive spirit of the tournament, Blendon Woodstock provided an excellent opportunity for newcomers to learn about disc golf. Instructional classes and engaging games allowed participants to experience the joys of the sport firsthand. Local vendors showcased their products, enhancing the community spirit and supporting our mission to promote the accessibility and beauty of our parks.

A significant aspect of this festival was our fundraising efforts aimed at improving the disc golf course. We had a great turnout for our Raffle as well as various other fundraising games. We are proud to announce that 100% of the funds raised will be reinvested back into the course, ensuring that it remains a top-notch facility for everyone to enjoy. Stay tuned for some upcoming announcements about improvements happening soon!

The highlights of Blendon Woodstock were numerous: fantastic weather, an incredible turnout, and a well-run tournament made for an unforgettable experience. The support from our community was overwhelming, proving that together, we can create something truly special.

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated,
volunteered, and supported this event. We look forward to continuing this event in the years to come and to continue connecting our community through the love of disc golf and enhancing our beautiful Metro Parks.

Stay tuned for more updates and future events as we strive to bring people together and promote the joys of our parks!

Birds of a Feather: Flocking to a Friends of Metro Parks Photo Hike at Blendon Woods

Three alumni of Columbus College of Art and Design (CCAD), an employee from World of Photography, and a professional portrait photographer of 15 years were joined by a passionate photo enthusiast and a naturalist with a deep understanding of what it takes to get the shot!

Spoiler: It sometimes takes a lot of patience, a tolerance for the intense summer sun, and slowing your pace enough to really see the world around you.

At Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks nature is your prime subject, because you are surrounded by diversity of fungi, plants, bugs, birds, landscapes, and weather conditions. On the day of this 'Friends Only' photo hike, it was a HOT early August day, which meant sweat-soaked (but happy) photographers. 

We were happy to be together, happy to have cameras in our hands, and happy to be out in the park! #naturelovers #photofriends #letshike

Any equipment will do. What's the best camera? I believe it's the one that is in your hands when the moment is right to freeze time! You're capturing (or creating) an impression of the natural world around you.

We set out on a Sunday afternoon, for a walk through prairie grasses filled with butterflies, bugs, and an occasional 'fly by,' by a native bird. We had to watch our step along the way, keeping our eyes out for pop-up fungi, settled in flood-prone dips and divot, in the prairie dirt. 

Through the camera lens we witnessed a hornet immobilizing an unsuspecting cicada, a Bugs Life-inspired mating ritual, and the explorations of a newborn praying mantis, curious and brave. The camera allowed us to slow down enough to really see!

The walk was just a short distance, but with more cameras than hands to hold them it was slow going. The group stayed together, while the sweat dripped down our backs and into our eyes, because we wanted to see what the others were capturing, wanting to learn from one another. 

And learn we did! It was a CCAD reunion, a naturalist-led excursion, and each photographer was just as ready to share as to learn, in the classroom before the hike and out under the summer sun. Become a Friend of Metro Parks and join us next time!

~ Kathleen O'Dowd

Friends of Metro Parks Board Member

(Check out "Accidental Wanderlust" at https://kathleenodowd.com for more nature photography, travel adventures, and many visits to Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks.)

Yappy Hour & SUP with your Pup!

June 7th was a perfect, sunny, Friday! The skies were blue, the breeze was blowing, and the summer heat was absolutely bearable. It was the perfect day for a Yappy Hour.

Friends of Metro Parks teamed up with Seventh Son and Outdoor Adventure to bring yet another Yappy Hour at Quarry Trails Metro Park , complete with SUP with your pup! Over 500 people attended the event, with dogs of all shapes and sizes taking a ride on a paddleboard… some more successfully than others.

Thanks to Seventh Son, Explorers Club, Chilljoy, and our vendors for an amazing night!

Introducing the Parks Connect Grant

Columbus, Ohio — Friends of Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks is excited to unveil the Parks Connect Grant, an initiative designed to foster a deeper connection between the community and our 20 remarkable Metro Parks. This grant provides financial support to offset various costs for groups and organizations interested in exploring our parks. To apply for a grant, visit the Friends of Metro Parks website.

"Since the launch of the Parks Connect Grant, we've witnessed an inspiring surge of enthusiasm from diverse groups and organizations throughout our city. This grant not only offers crucial financial backing but also ignites meaningful conversations about how our beloved Metro Parks can serve as a catalyst for positive change within our community," remarked Ben Shinabery, President of Friends of Metro Parks.

Created in 2023, the Parks Connect Grant is designed to enhance public use and enjoyment of our parks. Groups and organizations are invited to apply for funding to support a variety of activities, including:

• Transportation for group outings to our parks

• Refreshments for park-based events and gatherings

• Offset costs associated with park permits

• Marketing expenses for events within our parks

• Support for school and youth center field trips

Since launching Parks Connect, we’ve received 6 applications and awarded 3 grants. Parks Connect has enabled groups like Black Women in Nature to host events at Blacklick Woods and funded school buses for Red Oak Community School students to visit Glacier Ridge – and that’s only a few examples of the innovative ways the community is benefitting!

Interested organizations and groups can apply now for the Parks Connect grant. Grant applications are reviewed during monthly meetings by the Friends of Metro Parks Board of Directors. Upcoming 2024 meeting dates are: 

• Wednesday, June 19

• Monday, July 15

• Wednesday, August 21

• Monday, September 16

• Wednesday, October 16

• Monday, November 18

• Wednesday, December 18

Stay connected with Friends on Instagram, @metroparkfriend, on Facebook, LinkedIn, consider starting your membership as a Friend today or join in on the conversation using #MetroParkFriends!

Dudley Edmondson Returns Home

Photo: Aaron Lane

Renowned author, photographer, and filmmaker Dudley Edmondson returned home to Central Ohio last month, participating in two great programs with Friends of Metro Parks. A South High School (SHS) alum, Edmondson kicked off the weekend with a visit to his alma mater on Friday, May 24, followed by a morning event on Saturday, May 25 with Friends members at Blacklick Woods.

At the high school visit, Edmondson shared his journey with 9th, 10th and 11th graders and inspired students to consider nature and spending time in the outdoors. His own love for nature was fueled by a high school teacher who introduced him to bird watching.

Edmondson shared building blocks for success as the students continue to navigate their academic, personal and career journeys. Joined by several family members in the audience (many of whom were also South High alumni), Edmondson highlighted his work - from his beginnings as a photographer to producing films and authoring several books.“Black and Brown Faces in America’s Wild Places” features people of color sharing their experiences, backgrounds, and passions for the outdoors. 

Beautiful images graced the screen while Edmondson spoke. He recounted several personal stories throughout, reminding students that nature is a space for everyone and is a place where mental and physical health can flourish.

Several school and community leaders participated in the program, all of whom were thrilled to welcome Edmondson home to SHS. Speakers encouraged the students to find valuable takeaways from the accomplished alum’s story. Motivating remarks were shared by: Kwesi Kambon, Friends of Metro Parks board member and retired Columbus City Schools (CCS) administrator; Shannon Hardin, Columbus City Council President; Angela Chapman, CCS Superintendent; and Christina Vera, CCS Board of Education President. 

Students were also joined by: Frances Beasley, former Metro Parks commissioner; Ben Shinabery, Friends of Metro Parks Board President; and Tim Moloney - Metro Parks Executive Director. The students had takeaways indeed, as many Bulldogs raised their hands with questions at the end of Edmondson’s remarks.

One student shared that it was the first time the school has hosted a nature speaker, which piqued her curiosity as she has an interest in foraging plants and natural medicines. Kambon, whose leadership and planning made Edmondson’s visit to Columbus a reality, shared plans for continued partnership with SHS students interested in nature and careers in the outdoors. Moloney echoed the sentiments of the Friends of Metro Parks board member and encouraged students to reach out if interested in pursuing opportunities within the Metro Park system. 

The program concluded with Edmondson receiving a round of applause and an appreciation backpack full of goodies from the high school, presented by SHS’ principal Christy Nickerson.

– – – 

Blackick Woods event from the Canopy Walk. Photo by: Mike Emery

Saturday’s event brought more than 50 Friends members to the newly opened canopy walk at Blacklick Woods, to meet and hear from Edmondson. After brief welcomes from Moloney and Aaron Lane, Friends of Metro Parks Board Vice President, Edmondson greeted attendees and shared a bit of his story.

Edmondson then led the group on a stroll through the treetops, 35-feet in the air atop the canopy boardwalk. Binoculars in hand, Edmondson’s passion for nature was evident. He prides himself on being able to identify birds by their calls. He’s unapologetically prone to losing track of a conversation or spontaneously changing the topic when a bird, tree frog, leaf, butterfly or bug catches his attention. That’s just an expression of his love of nature.

Photo: Mike Emery

Speaking from the heart, he reminded the group that people and nature are intimately connected. We are nature, rather than being somehow separate from the natural world. Perspectives on the outdoors differ amongst indigenous communities, which are more closely connected to natural phenomena, compared with Eurocentric communities. There is a great deal to learn from those who have spent time in nature, respecting its life lessons and learning from its mysteries. 

After the canopy walkabout, Edmondson and Moloney led Friends members on a guided hike along trails in the Walter A. Tucker Nature Preserve area of the park. Participants walked along the boardwalk, using all of their senses to take in the natural surroundings. Their guides highlighted how different the trees seem from ground level, with different species more prone to be seen near the ground, compared to those that prefer to nest, rest, and commune high up in the canopy.

The trail is so alive with the sights, sounds, and smells of nature; it was a slow trek through the trees, as the group paused every several feet to whisper to one another about what bird might be calling its mate. It was a treat to walk the path alongside Edmondson, with his vast knowledge, and Moloney, with his entertaining storytelling and sense of humor.

Tim Moloney, Aaron Lane, Dudley Edmondson, and Kwesi Kambon

Photo: Mike Emery

Edmondson’s time in the park ended with bright smiles, words of praise, and invitations to return to nature again and again. The author, photographer, and filmmaker appeared to be encouraged and uplifted by the group’s interest in experiences he shared. The event’s participants were undoubtedly inspired by being in the presence of an individual who is so passionate about nature, the parks, and inviting everyone in to enjoy them.
—

Learn more about Edmondson and his work by visiting his website: https://dudleyedmondson.com/. 

Read more about Friday’s program in partnership with Columbus City Schools and Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks here (written by CCS), along with a story from NBC4 here. 

Tad Jeffrey Memorial Grants: 2024

Who was Tad Jeffrey?

Robert Hutchins “Tad” Jeffrey II was a Columbus businessman and philanthropist who sadly passed in 2016. A Bexley native, he was committed to reinventing his family business and uplifting the Columbus community. He served on numerous boards supporting organizations such as United Way, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus Symphony Orchestra, and COSI, to name a few.

As a Park Board Commissioner for 16 years, Tad hiked nearly every trail in the park system – often withhis grandchildren - and continually encouraged Central Ohio residents to experience nature in our wonderful Metro Parks. During his time on the board, Metro Parks doubled its acreage including the creation of Three Creeks Metro Park, which he championed.

His outstanding commitment to protect wildlife habitat and have people enjoy and learn about nature is why we continue to honor him through the Friends of the Metro Parks’ Tad Jeffrey Memorial Grants.

What is a Tad Jeffrey Memorial Grant?

Each year, Friends of Metro Parks sets aside funds for a mini-grant program called the “Tad Jeffrey Memorial Fund.” These funds help the parks implement unique projects and programs.

Friends of Metro Parks sends out an application to Metro Parks Staff for ideas that will support the wildlife and/or enhance the park experience for visitors. We award grants for items that would otherwise not be covered in the park budget to make each year bigger and better than the year before.

When you become a Friend, the Tad Jeffrey Memorial Grants are one of the many things your membership and donations support. You can also make a donation and designate the funds to support the grant directly through this form.

What was funded in 2024?

The exciting part: Announcing the grant recipients for 2024. We had a record number of submissions this year which led to some enthusiastic debates among the board (all in good fun, of course). Be on the lookout for these park updates over the remainder of the year for you to enjoy:

• Bathyscopes for stream programs at Battelle Darby Creek

• Bird feeders for the new canopy walk at Blacklick Woods

• Supplies for adventure backpacks at Blendon Woods

• Lanterns for early/late hikes at Clear Creek

• Chronolog stations for a community science program at Pickerington Ponds and Sharon Woods

• Bike fleet and helmets for Outdoor Adventures

• Installation of an oasis deck at Pickerington Ponds

• Lending Tackle Locker at Prairie Oaks

• Fireside updates at Quarry Trails

• Updates to bike repair stations at Scioto Audubon

Dudley Edmondson at Blacklick Woods

Meet author, photographer, and filmmaker, Dudley Edmundson.

Edmundson is a South High School Alum and celebrated author of “Black & Brown Faces in America’s Wild Places." This May, he returns home to share his memories of Blacklick Woods and his love of nature and photography with you.

Dudley offers his reflections on Blacklick Woods and is joined by Metro Parks Executive Director Tim Moloney

and President of Friends of Metro Parks Ben Shinabery

More details soon to come!