OTTAWA COUNTY – The Park District of Ottawa County has kicked off its annual Outdoor Hiking Challenge with a full list of self-guided destinations, as well as the guided adventures listed below. The varied challenges allow participants to discover new outdoor destinations in Ottawa County. Complete 9 or the 12 destinations and earn a pair of logoed Merino wool socks.

“For this year’s Outdoor Hiking Challenge, in this special America 250 anniversary year, we renamed our Guided Walks offerings to Guided Adventures because each one invites patrons to have an adventure by either foot, bicycle, or paddle, where indicated, in the spirit of exploration and discovery,” said Park District Executive Director Jannah Wilson. “There are multiple ways to take advantage of outdoor recreation areas in Ottawa County. We are especially excited to be partnering with the Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge and the Friends of Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge for two Guided Paddles on the Portage River. The Park District of Ottawa County is the facilitator of the Portage River Water Trail, and we are so very proud of this scenic 36-mile trail and its numerous paddle sport launch sites along the Trail. The Outdoor Hiking Challenge is an invitation to get outdoors, have some adventures, and enjoy the seasonal beauty of Ottawa County as we transition into the magical season of autumn.”

Guided Adventures:

Wednesday, September 23, October 14, October 28, 10-11 a.m. and Tuesday, September 15, 9-10:30 a.m. (also part of Creating Healthy Communities 2026 Recreation Mix fall program series), Magee Marsh Wildlife Area, 13229 W. State Route 2, Oak Harbor, 43449

Join the Division of Wildlife for a short hike in search of birds on their fall migration. We will be on the lookout for migratory songbirds, shorebirds, and waterfowl on their way south. Fall migration adds a different challenge compared to the spring, though the number and diversity of birds can still be incredible. Bring your own binoculars or borrow a pair. Suitable for all experience levels. Meet in the parking lot in front of the west entrance to the Magee Marsh Boardwalk. GPS Coordinates: 41.62994, -83.19338

Friday, September 11, Guided Portage River Paddle, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. or 1-4 p.m., 7870 W State Route 163 Oak Harbor, 43449 (Fairgrounds Kayak Launch)

Preregistration required and paddling experience required

THIS PROGRAM IS FULL, BUT NAMES CAN BE ADDED TO THE WAIT LIST

Saturday, September 26, 10:45am, Dieperink Tract Trail, Middle Bass Island. Ferry travel required.

Join us for a guided walk through the woods at the NEW Dieperink Tract Trail in Middle Bass Island Forested Wetland Preserve. The half-mile trail leads through a regenerating wet forest of Silver Maple, American Elm, and young Green Ash, to higher drier forest of Black Walnut and Common Hackberry. Spot migrant songbirds enjoying fruits and insects as they stop for rest and refueling. Take the 9:15 a.m. Miller Ferry from Catawba. Middle Bass Island golf cart rental available at J.F. Walleyes; bicycle rental available at Middle Bass Island State Park. From the Middle Bass Ferry Dock, head north on Fox Rd. There is a small parking lot for golf carts and a bicycle rack at the trailhead-between Mueller Rd. and Deist Rd. on the right side of Fox Rd. just before the Middle Bass Island Airport. Questions, call or text 419-366-2087.

Saturday, September 26, 2-3 p.m., Wolcott Family Cemetery Walk, Meet at 9999 E. Bayshore Rd. in Danbury Township.

Join Doug and Linda Huber of the Ottawa County Historical Society for a one-hour cemetery walk. The cemetery is located about ¼ mile from the Wolcott Keeper’s House at 9999 E. Bayshore Road in Danbury Township. We’ll gather at the house and walk the short distance to the cemetery. Wear comfortable shoes.

Thursday, October 29, 4-5 p.m., Fall Foliage Walk, Islander Woods and Trailhead, 3655 NW Catawba Rd., Port Clinton, 43452

Observe the vibrant fall colors at the Park District of Ottawa County’s newest public park. Executive Director Jannah Wilson will lead a short walk discussing the seasonal changes at this serene, 7.6-acre park.

Wednesday, November 25, 10-11 a.m., Veterans Park, 600 Washington St., Genoa, 43430

Choose your own adventure at Veterans Park. Upon arrival, select from three choices – pickleball, disc golf, or a guided quarry trail walk with Park District staff. All equipment provided.