ROYALVIEW MOUNTAIN BIKE EXPO
June 17 // Mill Stream Run Reservation
Be one of the first to ride the new Royalview mountain biking trail during this kickoff event. Skills clinics scheduled throughout the day help beginners and kids get acquainted, as well as teach safety and repair basics such as how to fit a helmet and how to change a tire. Trust us, you'll get a flat at some point. Weather permitting, an obstacle course race and group rides are on tap as well. 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Royalview Picnic Area, Strongsville, visit website for directions, clemetparks.com
NATURE AT NIGHT
July 14 // North Chagrin Reservation
If your idea of great nightlife is star-gazing and learning about animals that wake up as the moon begins to rise, this free annual event is for your family. A celebration of the mystery of nature at night includes puppet shows, crafts, live animal presentations and more. And you thought the sun had all the fun this time of year. 5-11 p.m., North Chagrin Nature Center, Mayfield Heights, visit website for directions, clemetparks.com
DOG PADDLE AND PET-A-PALOOZA
Aug. 26 // Hinckley Reservation
Hundreds of dogs will show up (with their owners, of course) to take a swim at the Hinckley Reservaton's Ledge Pool (for a nominal donation to the Medina County SPCA). Beyond taking a dip, you can browse the pooch fair or take your best friend on naturalist-led hikes. You can always check out the dogs available for adoption, too. Hint, hint. 1-5 p.m., Ledge Pool and Recreation Area, Hinckley, visit website for directions, clemetparks.com
