Nature NOW!

Nature NOW!

Witness Nature as it Happens

Nature NOW! programs offer guests a glimpse into the remarkable spontaneity of natural phenomena. From wildlife encounters to awe-inspiring floral blooms, each experience is as unique as the ecosystems surrounding us. Nature NOW! programs are entirely dependent on optimal environmental conditions, which cannot always be determined with considerable notice.

Fill out each program’s interest form to receive a 24-hour notice of optimal conditions, a registration link and more specific details of these free programs.

Current Programs

The Great Amphibian Migration

Every spring, the amphibians are on the move at Great Parks. If it’s nighttime, over 40°F and rainy, you might see salamanders, frogs and toads flock to their breeding waters to lay eggs. Fill out the interest form to receive a 24-hour notice of optimal conditions, a registration link and additional details about this annual trek to the breeding grounds. 

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Pawpaw Hike

The pawpaw tree produces Ohio’s largest native fruit – the pawpaw, also known as the custard apple or Appalachian banana. To get a taste of this tropical-flavored delight, you’ll need to act fast! Once the fruit ripens, it is quickly devoured by wildlife and doesn’t last long. You’ll learn more about the incredible pawpaw tree and taste its unique fruit on this pawpaw hike. Fill out the interest form below to receive a 24-hour notice of optimal conditions, a registration link and additional details. 

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Peak Fall Leaf Peep

Great Parks offers some of the best regional views of trees transforming with a stunning array of colors in the fall. Predicting when leaves will be at their peak color can be tricky, as timing depends on changes in temperature, daylight and rainfall. Complete the interest form below to receive a 24-hour notice when conditions are ideal for peak foliage color, a registration link and additional details about these leaf viewing hikes. 

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Note: The programs have limited capacity. Completing an interest form does not guarantee a spot. Spots are first-come, first-served. Specific location details are shared only with registered guests.