Get Out and Explore Your MetroParks
For more than 60 years, Five Rivers MetroParks has been connecting people with nature by providing clean, safe outdoor spaces that support the public’s physical, emotional and mental health.
A conservation agency, Five Rivers MetroParks supports the environment by protecting nearly 16,000 acres of land, 90% of which is in its natural state. This includes:
- 191 miles of trails for hiking, walking, backpacking, horseback riding, mountain biking and cycling
- A significant portion of the region’s 270 miles of river corridor
- 35 locations, including 18 MetroParks, the 2nd Street Market, eight conservation areas and eight portions of the region’s paved trail network.
With more than 2.05 million visitors last year, your Five Rivers MetroParks is a community asset that supports quality of life and attracts visitors who boost the local economy.
In addition to its many outdoor recreation amenities that can be enjoyed year-round, MetroParks offers free festivals, concerts, events and educational programs for those of all ages. Whether you want to relax and enjoy an afternoon picnic or find your new favorite hiking trail, your Five Rivers MetroParks has many ways for you to Get Out & Explore this season.
MetroParks on the Ballot
Five Rivers MetroParks has a 10-year, 1.0 mill levy on the ballot this November. The levy would cost under $3/month per $100,000 of appraised property value.
What the Levy Would Support
The levy supports keeping safe access to the parks for all of Montgomery County by:
- Protecting and improving natural areas, wildlife habitats, and water quality
- Ensuring safe picnic areas, restrooms, play areas, programs, trails, roads and bridges
- Providing outdoor recreation, education and festivals
- Keeping knowledgeable, helpful staff
What if the Levy Doesn’t Pass
Without this 1.0 mill levy, your MetroParks risks not being able to keep trails and facilities safe, clean, accessible and repaired. MetroParks also risks not being able to offer outdoor education and festivals and not being able to sufficiently protect our wildlife habitats and human environments.
Voting 101
- Voter Registration Deadline: Monday, October 7, 2024​
- Confirm your voting location with the Board of Elections​
- Plan to vote absentee or early if needed. Process begins Tuesday, October 8, 2024​
Election Day​ is Tuesday, November 5, 2024. Polls open 6:30am – 7:30pm
Ways to Get Out & Explore Your MetroParks
Hiking
Of the more than 75 miles of natural-surface trails in your MetroParks, many of them meander alongside rivers and creeks. There are a variety of hiking opportunities available at almost every MetroPark. New to the trails? Here are some free resources:
- Take the 2024 MetroParks Trails Challenge to discover new trails
- Download MetroParks’ Mobile App to help you navigate on the trails in real time
Picnicking and playgrounds
From beautiful garden parks to rustic old growth forests, MetroParks offers places for you to enjoy quality time with your loved ones. Picnic tables are a popular amenity and can be found in nearly all your 18 clean, safe MetroParks.
Make it a day outdoors by planning a picnic and playtime at one of MetroParks’ nature play areas, which encourage play through exploration using natural materials.
Get Out & Play in:
- Cox Arboretum MetroPark (nature play)
- Englewood MetroPark (nature play)
- Sugarcreek MetroPark (nature play)
- Hills & Dales MetroPark (nature play)
- Possum Creek MetroPark (nature play)
- Wesleyan MetroPark (traditional play)
- Island MetroPark (sprayground and traditional play)
Special events and festivals
Your Five Rivers MetroParks are home to some of the region’s most beloved festivals, including the United Irish Dayton Celtic Festival, African American Cultural Festival and Hispanic Heritage Festival, all hosted at RiverScape MetroPark.
Additionally, MetroParks produces special events and festivals throughout the year including the Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience at Eastwood MetroPark; Small Farm & Food Fest at Carriage Hill MetroPark; and Passport to MetroParks at RiverScape MetroPark, all of which are free to the public.
Mark your calendar for MetroParks’ many free festivals, concerts and events through the end of the year.
Cycling
The Miami Valley’s extensive trail system along with bike lanes downtown, Dayton’s bronze award as a Bicycle Friendly Community and the many must-see destinations along the trails showcase why the greater Dayton region is a destination for cycling enthusiasts.
Paddling
Kayak, canoe and stand-up paddleboard for an intimate river experience. Kayak rentals at RiverScape MetroPark are offered on Tuesdays, Thursdays and during special events through the end of September. No gear? No problem, MetroParks’ outdoor recreation staff host seasonal paddling programs, including free Try Paddlesports.
Programs for all ages
From ages 3 to 103, your Five Rivers MetroParks hosts programs that help inspire a personal connection to nature for those of all ages. Whether you want to keep your child’s mind engaged during summer months or are an adult looking for a new outdoor hobby, there is a program lead by professional MetroParks educators to help you connect to the great outdoors.
- Nature education programs for youth and teens
- Outdoor recreation programs
- Adult nature exploration programs
- Earth friendly living programs
- Programs for families and those of all ages
See a full calendar of programs here.
