Hiker Fest (All Ages)

Name: Hiker Fest (All Ages)
Start: 2026-01-24T10:00:00-05:00
End: 2026-01-24T14:00:00-05:00
Location: Metroparks Toledo - Oak Openings Preserve Metropark

Schedule

Sat Jan 24 2026 at 10:00 am to 02:00 pm

UTC-05:00

Location

Metroparks Toledo - Oak Openings Preserve Metropark | Swanton, OH

Oak Openings Preserve, Buehner Center
Saturday, January 24, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Reservations Required for Hikes Only, Fee: FREE
Join us at Hiker Fest, presented by Mercy Health, for a full mind, body and wellness experience. Embrace the beauty of the season at this winter celebration of outdoor adventure and community. Take part in volunteer-led hikes through scenic trails, learn hiking tips during informative sessions, and explore gear, clubs, and resources at the hiking fair.
This free event is part of a collaborative campaign between Metroparks Toledo and Mercy Health that promotes the power of parks in improving the community’s mental and physical well-being.
Warm up after your hike with complimentary coffee and hot chocolate, sponsored by Earnest Brew Works, available at the Buehner Center. Food available for purchase.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or new to the trails, this event offers inspiration and tools to help you enjoy the outdoors all season long. Bundle up and join the fun!
You do not need to register for a hike to participate in the event! Enjoy the trails on your own if you’d like!
Hiker Fest After Party at The Wheelhouse
When the hikes wrap up, head over to The Wheelhouse at the Beach Ridge Area of Oak Openings Preserve Metropark (3520 Waterville Swanton Road) for the official Hiker Fest After Party, presented by Earned Brew Works. Enjoy Earnest’s craft beers, the all new coffee menu, good company and food from a local food truck, Noon to 4 p.m., Sabrosa Taco Truck. The Wheelhouse will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
More Hiker Fest Event Information
All hikes will run rain, snow, or shine. Please dress for the weather in layers and bring water in a reusable water bottle, snacks for longer hikes, and a backpack to carry your items. All minors must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the event.
Hike Schedule:
10:15 am: 5-mile Hike REGISTER: https://ohmetroparkstoledoweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/search.html?module=PST&fmid=49143413
10:30 am: 3-mile Hike REGISTER: https://ohmetroparkstoledoweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/search.html?module=PST&fmid=49143694
11 am: Family Hike REGISTER: https://ohmetroparkstoledoweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/search.html?module=PST&fmid=49143928
11:30 am: 1-mile Slow Stroll REGISTER: https://ohmetroparkstoledoweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/search.html?module=PST&fmid=49144256
12:00 pm: 5-mile Hike REGISTER: https://ohmetroparkstoledoweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/search.html?module=PST&fmid=49143576
12:30 pm: 3-mile Hike REGISTER: https://ohmetroparkstoledoweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/search.html?module=PST&fmid=49143870
1:00 pm: Family Hike REGISTER: https://ohmetroparkstoledoweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/search.html?module=PST&fmid=49144163
Information Session Schedule:
10:30 a.m.: Stretching for Hikers - Dr. Holly Eichner
Warm up with Dr. Holly Eichner! Learn exercises and stretches to improve balance and prevent injuries on the trail.
11:30 a.m.: Benefits of Outdoor Winter Activity and How to do it Safely - Dr. Tanya Baldwin
Dr. Baldwin is a Family Physician out of Bay Meadows Family Medicine in Oregon. She is also a devoted wife, mother of 3 daughters, sister, aunt, daughter and brand new grandmother. She loves to exercise, travel and cook.
1 p.m.: Travel Hiking – Brittney Exarhos, Acorn Expeditions
Thinking about adventure beyond your Metroparks? Get practical tips and destination inspiration from well-traveled Brittney Exarhos, owner of Acorn Expeditions.

If you are unable to register online, please call 419-407-9700 to speak with a member of our Customer Service department during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Must register all participants unless otherwise noted.

Dogs are not permitted unless otherwise noted.