Slate Run Metro Park isn't resting on slate rock -- settlers mistook the dark soil for 350-million year old slate. It's actually shale, a soft rock made from clay deposited by water about 350 million years ago. Slate Run features a variety of habitats ranging from the open areas of grasslands, wetlands and meadows to the forested areas of beech, oak, hickory and sugar maple. Red-winged blackbirds, meadowlarks, indigo bunting, belted kingfishers and numerous other birds and wildlife can be seen at the 156-acre wetlands. More than 70 species of birds have been spotted there. The park features Slate Run Living Historical Farm where visitors can learn about and help with chores on a working 1880s farm. About 12 miles of trails wind through the fields, forests, ravines and grasslands. Visitors will cross a restored 1800s covered bridge on one of the trails.
From I-270, take U.S. 33 east toward Lancaster to the Canal Winchester/S.R. 674 exit. Turn right onto Gender Road/S.R. 674 and go about two miles until it dead-ends into Lithopolis Road. Turn left and go about 1/2 mile to S.R. 674. Turn right and go about four miles to the entrance on the right. Once inside the park, go past the ranger station and take the first road left and follow the signs to the farm.
http://www.tripleblaze.com/trail.php?c=3&i=7355