Free naturalist-led pawpaw hikes begin Tuesday, Sept. 15, at three Clermont County parks. The Clermont County Park District is hosting the four-day series, called Pawpaw Palooza, which runs through Friday, Sept. 18, and includes a virtual class and an after-dark outing.

Two of the five events take place at Sycamore Park in the Symmes Township area, the Clermont Guardian first reported. Naturalists will lead groups to pawpaw groves where hikers can taste and harvest the custard-like fruit, which the park district calls North America's largest wild fruit.

All programs are free and open to all ages. Only the Wednesday virtual class requires registration.

Here is the full schedule:

Tuesday, Sept. 15, 7–8 p.m. Pawpaw hike at Pattison Park, 2228 US-50, Batavia. The trail is mostly flat with uneven natural surfaces. Hikers will explore a pawpaw grove and may take fruit home.

Wednesday, Sept. 16, noon–1 p.m. Virtual Lunch and Learn on ways to eat pawpaws. Registration is required to receive the meeting link.

Wednesday, Sept. 16, 5–5:45 p.m. Shorter hike along the paved loop at Sycamore Park.

Thursday, Sept. 17, 7–8 p.m. Pawpaw hike at Clingman Park.

Friday, Sept. 18, 7:30–9 p.m. "Possums & Pawpaws," an after-dark hike that crosses the suspension bridge into Sycamore Park's Wilson Nature Preserve. The bridge, completed in November 2025, spans the East Fork Little Miami River and connects to a 25-acre island. The trail on the island is named Pawpaw Crossing, chosen through a community vote.

Participants on the in-person hikes may go home with pawpaws and seeds, depending on how much fruit is available, according to the park district. Programs are held rain or shine. In severe weather, cancellations are posted on the district's Facebook page and emailed to registered participants at least two hours before the event.

A full schedule and registration links are available at clermontparks.org/events. Questions can be directed to [email protected] or 513-732-2977.

Coming up: The park district hosts "Sunset on the River" at Chilo Lock 34 Park on Saturday, Sept. 19, from 6 to 9 p.m. That event is also free.