Calendar
Great Parks' programming and events elevate outdoor experiences by providing opportunities for adventure to challenge, excite and build confidence; enrichment to inspire learning and creativity; wellness to promote physical and mental well-being and celebrate communities across Hamilton County. Discover a rich calendar of outdoor experiences at Great Parks of Hamilton County. Whether you’re looking for paddleboard yoga, native-plant gardening, children’s garden clubs, family storytime on the farm, or guided sunset hikes, there’s an adventure for every age. Filter events by location, activity type, or visitor group to easily plan a visit across scenic parks, lakes, gardens, and nature preserves. Many programs are free or low-cost, offering accessible ways to build confidence, wellness, creativity, and connection. Perfect for families, nature enthusiasts, and community explorers seeking enriching, active time outdoors.
January 2026
Winter Hike Series
calendar_today Saturday, January 24
watch 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM
group Adult, Child, Family
What to know
This annual series of challenging and educational hikes, ranging from four to 5.5 miles, explores the natural history and unique features of five iconic Great Parks destinations. Each week, join the hiking group that suits you best: the standard hike, a leisurely stroll, a fast-paced challenge, a family experience with nature games (perfect for kids ages 5-10) and more! All hikes conclude with soup, cookies and camaraderie. Registration is required for each hike. When registered, your selected hiking group will appear in the confirmation email, which hikers should have ready at check-in. Hikers will receive a button with space to commemorate each registered hike with a sticker throughout the series. Children must be accompanied by a paid adult. Registration closes on Friday at 3 p.m. before each hike.
Cost: $10 (ages 5+) Age(s): Adults & children 5+
Location: Woodland Mound | Seasongood Nature Center
Hiking Groups:
Mushroom Hike – Go on an adventure searching for mushrooms.
Wildlife in Winter - Walk and learn about how animals survive the winter.
Bird Hike – Explore birds overwintering in Ohio. Binoculars recommended.
Fast Hikes – Challenge yourself with a faster-paced nature hike.
Leisurely Hikes – Relax and enjoy a slower-paced educational hike.
Family Hike – Play games and explore nature as a family. Recommended for ages 5-10.
Standard Hikes – Enjoy a moderately paced nature-based education hike.
Bird Walk
calendar_today Sunday, January 25
watch 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM
group Adult, Child, Family
What to know
Discover bird species that enjoy the park as their wintering grounds. Stroll along the paved trail around the lake in search of songbirds and waterfowl.
Cost: Free Age(s): All ages
Location: Sharon Woods | Harbor Parking Lot
Backpacking Skills Series | Campsite Selection
calendar_today Sunday, January 25
watch 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
group Adult, Family
What to know
From trip planning and gear selection to hygiene and nutrition, get prepared for a night in the wilderness with tips from certified backpacking instructors. Participants will walk away with new knowledge, professional advice and brand-new personal gear. Sign up for the full series package and receive a Great Parks beanie!
Cost: $23 per class, $115 for series package Age(s): Adults & children 12+
Location: Sharon Woods | Sharon Centre Auditorium
Dates & Topics:
Jan. 11 | Trip Planning & Gear
Jan. 18 | Navigation
Jan. 25 | Campsite Selection
Feb. 1 | Water & Hygiene
Feb. 8 | Nutrition & Stoves
Native Ingenuity: Spear Making
calendar_today Sunday, January 25
watch 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM
group Adult, Child, Family, Scout
What to know
Settle into the nature center and discover the creativity and resourcefulness of Native American cultures. We will learn about traditional tools and the ingenuity behind them. Craft your very own spear and take your shot at launching them with the atlatl, an ancient spear-thrower used for hunting.
Cost: $5 (register by2 days prior)p;Age(s): 8+
Location: Sharon Woods | Sharon Center
Plant Removal at Withrow Nature Preserve
calendar_today Tuesday, January 27
watch 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
group Adult
What to know
Some plant species diminish biodiversity, outcompete native species, and threaten the ecosystem. Learn how to identify and properly treat aggressive plant species that could be present in your backyard while removing them along the Trout Lily Trail. This event runs from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm.
Age(s): 14+
Location: Withrow Nature Preserve | Parking Lot | 7075 Five Mile Road, Cincinnati, OH 45230
VOLUNTEER EVENT