“BEHIND THE SCENES”

Tuesday, August 15, 2023 at 6:00 PM

Let’s enjoy some fresh air with a hike at Eyring Wetlands Preserve Metropark. Check out the latest projects and hear about our future park projects. The staff will be meeting at 906 Mechanicsville Road, Austinburg, Ohio 44010 on August 15, 2023 at 6:00 pm. Most of the trail will be flat, however, there may be some wet areas. Please bring your boots and insect repellant!

Pets are welcome as long as they remain on the leash.

We look forward to getting out with our park patrons and beating “Cabin Fever” together.

Yip Yip, Nature’s Neat!

“Come One, Come All!”

Let’s walk together and enjoy our Ashtabula County Metroparks with a morning stroll aka Seniors Walk. We plan to begin at 8 am every other week led by our Metroparks staff. The terrain will be easy to moderate, go at your own pace and will be roughly a mile to 1.5 miles long. If you have any questions, please contact the Metroparks Office at 440-576-0717.

August 22, 2023 at 8:00 am

Old Austinburg Road Staging Area                    

2613 Old Austinburg Road

Austinburg, Ohio 44010

CELEBRATE THE NEW YEAR AT RED BROOK METROPARK!

Join us on New Year’s Day for a guided hike with Gloria.

Date: January 1, 2023
When: 1:00 p.m.
Location: Red Brook Metropark – 4338 Lake Road, Ashtabula, OH 44004

Distance: Approximately two miles

Time: Approximately one hour

This park has three miles of paved trails, beautiful forests and meadows.
– Dress in warm layers for the weather.
– Wear waterproof boots.
– Bring a hiking stick if you have one. 

We will meet at the North end of the parking lot.

If you have any questions, please contact the office at (440) 576-0717.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Ms. Antoinette Swegheimer, Ms Laura Beattie, and Mr. Brett Bellas:

What a wonderful day we had October 4, 2022 hiking the Upper Grand River Metropark and learning of its long history and the plans for its preservation and conservation. Inviting those of us from Camp Yakewi days to participate in a “History Hike” was a celebration of all Ashtabula County and the Western Reserve Land Conservancy have accomplished in saving this land for future generations. Those of us that have loved this bio-diverse and beautiful land for over fifty years are so grateful to you, the Board and Staff of Ashtabula Metroparks.  A truly memorable day. A park now that will be part of many more memories for so many more people. And above all, a sanctuary for birds, wildlife, trees and plantlife.

With gratitude,

Sheila Smith

Chesapeake Virginia

Staff member of Camp Yakewi 1966 and 1967 

Calling all campers, staff of Camp Yakewi, and nature enthusiasts:

Looking to reminisce or check out the changes to the camp? We will be touring the property and would enjoy your company on Tuesday, October 4th, 2022 at 1:00 pm.

Join Brett Bellas, Operations Manager for Ashtabula County Metroparks and former Camp Counselor at Camp Yakewi at 3199 Cork Cold Springs Road, Austinburg, Ohio 44010 (now known as Upper Grand River Metropark) parking area for a tour of the old camp, then gather at the pavilion for a campfire, smores and share old camp stories.

Please RSVP to (440) 576-0717 so we can supply enough smores for everyone.

ALL ARE WELCOME!!!

Ashtabula Bike Club

Saturday September 3, 2022 Ride begins at 10:00 am Jefferson Village Dog Park 259 E Jefferson Street Jefferson, Ohio  44047Please view and download the Map for this mornings ride Map for Jefferson Village Dog Park or see below. Picnic following ride.(Rain or Shine)Guests welcome. Arlene and Elliott Rice are hosting a picnic at their home. 120 Center Street Jefferson, Ohio  44047Map to Arlene and Elliott’s home Additional parking available at Rite Aid on the corner of Route 46 and E. Ashtabula Street. Bring your beverage of choice. Side dishes optional but welcome. Looking forward to seeing everyone, and catching up. Nancy

Ashtabula County District Library brings the library to you!

Ashtabula Bike Club

The July 19 ride begins in Dorset.
 

JUNE 13, 2022 at 6:30 PM – BEHIND THE SCENES

Come take a “Behind the Scenes” tour with Brett Bellas, Operations Manager at Ashtabula County Metroparks, Monday, June 13 at 6:30 pm. We will be meeting at our soon to open Upper Grand River Metropark, 3100 Cork Cold Springs Road in Austinburg Township. We will roughly walk 1 1/2 miles on primitive trails and share what is up and coming for this site.

Please dress for the weather including proper footwear for the hike. The trail is medium to moderate with some wet areas and small inclines. Other recommended gear would be water bottles, binoculars, bug spray and a hat. We hope to see you there.

If you have any questions please direct them to the Metroparks office at 440-576-0717. 

PLEASE NOTE:
Anyone caught removing barricades along the Greenway Trail will be cited, removing signage and barricades is prohibited on park property. In addition, Motor vehicles are not allowed on any portion of the Greenway Trail. Many people use the trail to walk, pedal and run as a means of enjoyment and exercise, and we want to make sure they are safe. If anyone has witnessed any violation of motor vehicle traffic or removing signage on the trails other than Metroparks vehicles and mowers please call the office at 440-576-0717 or the local Sheriff’s department.


With Memorial Day weekend here we want to remind people to be safe and enjoy our Metroparks and trails. The weather forecast is calling for a lovely weekend and we hope you enjoy time spent with family and friends. Please remember those who have served and given to our country. 

Presenting Thriving with Nature, a Family Wellness Workbook, a collaboration between Family Pride of NEO and the Ashtabula County Metroparks. The goal of this attractive workbook is to encourage children to get outside and enjoy time in nature while learning about their mental health. This comprehensive workbook covers topics like finding our strengths, setting boundaries, and practicing mindfulness.  Its creation began a year ago, when Family Pride therapist, Morgan Whitely, recognized the need for families’, especially during the pandemic, to more positively interact and connect with each other. In partnership with Laura Beattie from the Ashtabula County Metroparks, they created a fun, family-friendly workbook for children and their guardians to complete together.

Families can pick up copies of the workbook (and supplies to supplement the activities) the Metroparks office at, 91 North Chestnut Street, Jefferson, Ohio 44047. Families can also pick up a copy of the workbook at Family Pride’s offices at 1110 Lake Ave, Ashtabula, OH or call 440-576-0717.

Download a copy from www.familyprideonline.org or www.ashtabulametroparks.com .

The Ashtabula County Metroparks were created to conserve, preserve and to protect Ashtabula County’s natural resources and to provide outdoor recreational experiences to Ashtabula County residents. Family Pride of NEO is a non-profit community mental health agency conveniently located in Ashtabula, Lake, and Geauga Counties. At Family Pride we focus our mental health services to meet your unique needs. We offer individual, couples, and family counseling services in the home, office, school, via telehealth or in your community!

Ashtabula County Metroparks appreciate and support all of the community events. We look forward to seeing you all out on the trails!

2022  Ashtabula Bicycle Club Calendar Our Bicycle Season Begins in April.

Spring Warm UP Rides start at Austinburg Trailhead of the Western Reserve  Greenway Trail.

Every Tuesday at 6 pm.

Arrive early for extra miles, and return for 6 p.m. group start.  It still is chilly, so dress appropriately. 

All levels of bicyclers are welcome.

Wear a helmet.

Looking forward to seeing everyone.  We will follow Covid guidelines.  Masks are not indicated while riding bicycles.

Map to Austinburg Trailhead of the WRGT

April 5
April 12
April 19
April 26

 When I am in town, I usually arrive at 4, and circle back every hour to pick up interested riders.
It still gets dark early, and can be cold.

Come early for extra miles.

Regular Season Calendar
Ride starts promptly at 6:00 pm.
April 23           Saturday.  Earth Day ride      
1:00 PM             Start at Rock Creek WRGT parking area. 
                        Ride  the Greenway. 

May 3      A-Tech, 1565 State Route 167, Jefferson, Ohio  44047
                  Use Garrison Road Parking Area.
                  All routes start going north, or left out of parking lot.

May 10      Harpersfield Community Center, Kosicek Baseball Fields, 5604 Cork-Cold Springs Road
                      All routes start going west.  Left out of parking lot.

May 17      Eyring Metropark
                       A little hilly on the longer route

May 24      Hatches Corners Metropark

May 28      Saturday,  Memorial Day Weekend10 AM        Bylers Community Kitchen Amish Bakery  400 Ohio 193, 44047                           24 mile route, with 10 mile option 30 mile Route                                        with 16 and 20 mile options

May 31     Plymouth Township Road Department 1002 Plymouth Brick Road.

June 7      Geneva-On-The-Lake,  Crabapple Grove.  4605 Padanarum Road.
                 There are many distances to choose.
                 Long Route crosses busy Route 20.

June 14      El Torero, 513 Main St.  Orwell, Ohio  44076
                   Additional parking at WRGT near Welded Tubs Plant on Penniman Road
                   All Road Routes start by going south, and then east on Moore.
                   Many crossovers to return to trail and return to parking.
                   (You can choose to stay on trail and pick your distance)
                   Enjoy a meal afterwards if you are interested.

June 21      The former Happy Hearts parking lot.  2505 South Ridge East, Route 84
Paved 20 mile Route
Short Routes with gravel option to see Dewey Road Covered Bridge

June 28       Dave’s Route.  Little Pie Shop and Cafe
                       5050 Lake Road,  West Saybrook
                       Social activity following ride.

Pymatuning is a nice ride. It is far in south county, so may be long drive.
You can download maps and do the rides at your convenience
                   Pymatuning Lake
 North:  24 miles.  Enjoy the beautiful new paved trail across the spillway
South:  23 miles

July 5        Watson’s Auto Tech,  5000 State Road, and Route 84, Conneaut
                       Route is changed this year.  Challenging Route starts going North.
                  Other routes go south, and then make cut offs at the distance you choose.

July 12      Dorset Township Community Center, 2681 OH – 193, 44032
                  Mostly flat.  10 an 21 miles
July 19     Joe’s ride,  870 Dodgeville Road, Orwell
                    Enjoy overlook from their patio
                    Karen and Joe host a relaxed social following ride. July 26       

Pierpont, Williams-Ducro Funeral Home.
 8,11,18,25 mile ride into Pennsylvania.pdf

                   Various Rolling hill routes into Pennsylvania (The former Pierpont Elementary School)
                   1071 OH-7, Pierpont 

August  2   Chris and Paul Martello’s Ride
                         11 and 20 miles flat.  All routes start right out of parking area.
                          Herb Garden Bed And Breakfast
                         3699 OH -46 Jefferson, Ohio
                          Social following ride       

August  9   Sheffield Volunteer Fire Department, 
                  3636 Sheffield Monroe Road
                  Mostly flat.  Hildom Road has incline                 

August 16   White Turkey
                   388 E Main Road,  Conneaut, Ohio  Park in rear
                    Many distances.  Rolling hills 

August 23    D & M Tavern.  Across the road from Hunter’s Inn
                    Park at 4536 Footville-Richmond Road
                    Start by going north and quickly turn left onto State Road
                    for a long steady climb.  Short cut on Cork- Cold Springs Road
                    Option for flat six miles.  Go South from Parking lot to
                    Route 6 and turn around.
                    You can continue further south if you choose.  Route 6 is busy. 

August 30    Gangbusters Pizza  3397 Gageville-Monroe Road.  440-224-1800
                    (Remember to go across the street and talk
                    with owner to allow parking.)                 Order Pizza to go.  They close before our ride is over.
                     Park away from entrance. 

September 3    Saturday Labor Day Weekend.   Arlene’s Route.10AM              

Start at Jefferson Dog Park  259 E Jefferson Street
                             All routes go west out of park and right onto Hickock,
                             except short route with turns left onto Stumpville.

                             Picnic at Arlene’s following ride.Map to Arlene and Elliott’s  Home
                                          September  6    Lampson Road, 12 or 18 miles   

                                Meet at Lampson Road parking area on the WRGT.
                             Mostly flat.  Return on trail or ride trail only, if you want.                                    

September 13   Rock Creek    Enjoy a variety of distances.  Flat.  Stay on trail if you prefer.             

September 20   State Line United Methodist Church, 7321 Bushnell
                        New this year.  Mostly flat.  Furnace Road, and Middle Road, 
                            north of Busnell Road have long gradual incline as you return to parking.

September 24    Saturday.Annual Ferrantes bike ride
10AM                  Enjoy the end of season aromas of the vineyards.

September 27     Red Brook Metropark.  4338 Lake Road, Saybrook
                            Short end of season ride through Harbor neighborhoods,
                            with Lake Erie views.  Discover the Northern terminus
                            of the Lake To River Trail

 End of Regular Road Season    

October:      Rides return to Austinburg WRGT Trail head. 
                                  Ride every Tuesday as long as weather permits.
                                  Arrive early for extra miles.

October 8     Annual Bonfire, Potluck, 
    5 PM         Picnic at Ron’s.
                              4272 Gore Road, Conneaut, Ohio

 Bonfire Rain date  October 15

I have many longer routes that are great for any time.  Let me know if you would like to see them.

Thanks, and share this information.  Enjoy your rides.

Nancy

Join us for a hike Northeast Ohio Hiking Nemophilists  Sunday April 3, at 1:00 P.M. at Red Brook Metropark Link To:  Red Brook Metropark Birding at Red Brook 4338 Lake Road W., Ashtabula, Ohio  44004 Distance:  Three Miles Time:  Approximately 2 hours Ashtabula’s former country club and golf course.  Red Brook is Ashtabula County Metroparks’ newest park.  This park has three miles of trails. Beautiful forests, meadows and floodplain which protects two miles of Red Brook.  It is a public park and nature preserve. It is steps away from Lake Erie.  Red Brook is a favorite park for both runners and walkers.  Please wear waterproof boots and bring a hiking stick if you have one.  Dress in warm layers for the weather. Gloria

Join us for a hike   Sunday March 13, at 1:00 P.M.   Jordan Creek Park Chair Factory Falls 7250 Alexander Road Concord TWP  44077 The hike will start at Jordon Creek Park.  There are hills, staircases and waterfalls.  The forest has hemlock, oak, maple, shag bark hickory and beech trees.  We will see a yurt that houses the Research Station.  The hike has paved and gravel trails.  For a short distance we will be on the Greenway Corridor heading to Chair Factory Falls.  The hike will be about two hours. Bring a walking stick and wear wataerproof boots. We will meet at Jordan Creek Park 7250 Alexander Road Concord TWP  44077 We are meeting at the large parking lot by the picnic pavilion.  NOT the first small parking lot to the right. Any questions:  Marily:  emee0221@yahoo.com I will have extra walking sticks for anyone who needs one. For anyone interested, we are planning to go to Redhawk Grille for dinner afterwards. 7481 Auburn Road #9703, Painesville Ohio  44077 Looking forward to seeing you.  Marilyn, Sharon, Nancy

Happy New Year Keeping positive I have a growing list of excursions planned. I am looking forward to seeing everyone for socially distanced bicycle rides. Let’s enjoy conversation, and being outdoors. New calendar arrives in March.  April rides start on the Western Reserve Greenway trail in Austinburg at 6:00 pm.   I would love to hear any comments about routes, or scheduling.  I change it up each year.    Send suggestions regarding which routes to keep or remove.  New routes are being developed.  I hope you will find them interesting.  We have a big county.  Let us explore it. Looking forward to a better year. Warm up rides return in April.  Looking forward to seeing everyone in the New Year Nancy and Ron

Calling all bicycle enthusiasts!

ACMP Scavenger Hunt, visit 4 of the 10 parks and receive a prize, see details below!!!

Hatches Corners Metroparks Bike Ride 

Tuesday, July 6, 2021 at 6:00 p.m.  All skill levels are invited.  Must be 18 years of age and helmets are required. 

We hope you enjoy these!

NORTH SHORE TRAIL CELEBRATION CLIP AND PICTURES

Thank you Lauren Locke and the Gazette Newspapers for this great article!