The University of the Great Outdoors (UGO) is a new initiative by the Hamilton County Park District Naturalist Department to encourage health and nature appreciation in the Great Outdoors. Throughout the year, UGO programs will be offered at various parks with an emphasis on outdoor exercise and nutrition. The programs are designed to be fun and educational! Experience recreation in nature!

FEBRUARY 10
Outdoor Challenge / 4:30 p.m.
Winton Woods
It might be snowshoe soccer, frigid Frisbee golf or some other whacky outdoor game! Join us for some mid-winter craziness. Children should wear athletic clothes and shoes. Deadline to register is February 8. Register online.

FEBRUARY 13
Healthy Hike / 10:00 a.m.
Winton Woods Winton Centre
We’ll hike three miles and make sure to get our heart rates up for a good cardio workout. It will do our hearts good to be outdoors and see the beauty of Winton Woods, learning some natural history as we go.

FEBRUARY 14
Hike For Your Heart / 2:00 p.m.
Sharon Woods
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a short or long hike. Afterwards, we will enjoy warm refreshments as we learn some tips on how to keep our hearts healthy! Deadline to register is February 12. Register online.

FEBRUARY 19
Compass Course Challenge / 4:00 p.m.
Winton Woods
Participate in a brief, basic compass lesson and put your skills to the test with our orienteering course! Compasses will be provided. Deadline to register is February 17. Register online.

FEBRUARY 20
Outdoor Skills: Winter Survival / 2:00 p.m.
Winton Woods
Can you survive winter’s challenges? Join us for this fun and informative program where you will use a variety of outdoor skills and decision making techniques to successfully carry out the challenges that you face. Geared for ages seven and up. Light refreshments and hot drinks will be available. Cost is $5 and the deadline to register is February 18. Register online.

FEBRUARY 21
Wilderness Skills: Map and Compass / 2:00 p.m.
Winton Woods
Join us for this outdoor program on using a map and a compass. Try our orienteering course where you will follow a bearing, learn to travel around large obstacles and get back on the right track again! Cost is $5 and the deadline to register is February 20. Register online.

FEBRUARY 27
Indoor Rock Climbing / 2:00 p.m.
Winton Woods
We will be meeting at Winton Woods and drive you to RockQuest for a climbing and belaying lesson. All equipment is provided. Recommended for ages eight and up. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Cost is $20 and the deadline to register is February 25. Register online.

FEBRUARY 28
Mitchell Memorial Forest Hike / 2:00 p.m.
Mitchell Memorial Forest
Join us for a 3.9-mile hike on one of our newest trails! No strollers please! Deadline to register is February 27. Register online.