Junior Ranger Kickoff

Calling all young naturalists! Our Junior Ranger program is kicking off its 3rd season and we are excited to for youth to join in the fun and earn your Junior Ranger badge. Register to join us on Tuesday, June 10 at 6:00pm at Towner's Woods Park to get your new activity booklet and do an activity with park staff.

The Junior Ranger Program activities are designed for ages 5-12, however any age can participate! This self-guided program fosters a love of nature and provides ideas and activities that support exploration. Youth can participate for up to 3 years. We are offering new rewards this year for repeat rangers!

Less Mow to Let it Grow

The mission of Portage Park District is rooted in conservation and our new mowing reduction plan supports that mission by providing habitat for wildlife like ground nesting birds, increasing flowers for pollinators, reducing emissions from mowing equipment, and improving plant diversity. Read more about how this plan will improve your parks and benefit our community!

Switch Tower Fundraiser

Switch Tower IPA is a collaboration beer between Bell Tower Brewing Co, The Battleground, and the Portage Park District Foundation, brewed to support local conservation efforts and the preservation of the Brady Interlocking Switch Tower at Towner's Woods. A portion of the proceeds from each pint and 4-pack of Switch Tower IPA sold will go towards these efforts. The beer is a West Coast IPA with 7.0% ABV and 65 IBUs, featuring flavors of resinous pine and juicy grapefruit. Get your 4-pack while supplies last at Bell Tower Brewing Co. or The Battleground!

2025 Wild Hike Challenge

It is the Year of the River Otter! These cute and charismatic mammals are skilled predators and are documented at a number of our parks, including the newly opened Breakneck Creek Park. Download your WHC Form and complete 8 of the listed hikes to earn rewards!

The Cuyahoga River Water Trail is Ohio's 13th Water Trail. The Cuyahoga is an Ohio Scenic River (upper portion 1974), a National Heritage Corridor (Ohio & Erie Canalway 1996), and an American Heritage River (1998). In becoming an Ohio Water Trail (2019), the river that burned now sparks excitement, a symbol of efforts to clean up America’s waterways. A hallmark of the Cuyahoga River Water Trail is the diversity of opportunities around every crooked turn. Enjoy nature, exercise, and peaceful appreciation. Differences in the paddling skills needed, seasons of flow, and equipment options contribute to this variety. The calm, rural waters of the Upper Cuyahoga State Scenic River above Kent are best for beginners. Intermediate paddlers might explore from Kent to Cuyahoga Falls with its frequent access points.

Stay safe on your paddling trip! Check weather and water conditions, always wear a life vest, and never go alone or without a float plan. Check the website for more safety tips!

• The 2025 park schedule is packed with park construction, improvement, and restoration projects. Sometimes this work means your favorite park or trail may be temporarily closed. The most current closures or alerts can be found by clicking the orange Alerts icon at the top of the park website. Thank you for your patience as we continue to improve your Portage Parks!
• As warmer weather approaches, please plan for a safe park visit. Drink plenty of water, wear sun protection, protect yourself from ticks and mosquitos, and watch the weather forecast. General safety reminders are to walk with a buddy, let someone know your hike plan, and always keep at least one ear open (free of ear bud or headset).