My favorite experience from the parks and outdoor recreation was being able to overlook the skyline of Columbus from the Scioto Audubon park. The view from this park showed the plausibility of successfully witnessing the beauty of nature and man-made creations in a single, sublime glance.  Wandering the grassy fields to the boardwalk through the wetland, exposed me to the sights and scents of the marshy Columbus terrain.  An owl zoomed overhead and planted itself on the dry earth only feet away from me, before scooping up a small creature and returning to the night sky.

Then, I journeyed to the Franklin Park Conservatory where I wandered through the gardens and explored the geometrically sound pathways.  I surveyed the gorgeous architectural structures of the garden, from the mute fountains to the frosted wrought iron gates surrounding the paths.  I absolutely recommend visiting the Franklin Park Conservatory during any season, and I intend to return to the park during the spring months in order to embrace the full effect of nature within the greenhouses and gardens.

After bidding farewell to the lovely Franklin Park Conservatory, I moseyed on down to the Park of Roses where I wandered down the paths of dying roses under a dusky sky.  The roses, wilting and sagging, reminded me of my own mortality and I reflected on the beauty of the unmerciful cycle of life.  During early September months of next year, I hope to return to the tranquil gardens and visit the roses in their prime, mimicking myself in the blossoming years of my own life.

I completed my park experience at the Topiary Parks, where I overlooked a plethora of artfully-crafted green figures.  The topiary figures lit up under ethereal Christmas lights and I gawked at the still green forms.  The silhouettes of green boats, puppies, and dancing children peppered the enchanting park.  Additionally, I glanced a sign that listed “The Old Deaf School Park” and, after some research, I learned the transfixing park was once home to the Ohio School for the Deaf, until the buildings burned down in a shocking 1981 fire.

After much reflection, I learned Columbus takes great care in maintaining their parks.  The history surrounding Columbus parks is rich, and the grounds of the park are entirely diverse.  I encountered many remarkable terrains during my trip around Columbus nature, from unrefined wetlands to stately rose gardens.  I intend to return to the parks during different seasons, to revel in their beauty.  Additionally, after conversing with my fellow Environmental and Natural Resources scholars, I would love to explore some of the coffee shops on the coffee shop list.  After experiencing the unbridled glory of nature, I’d now love to indulge in the decadence of Columbus’ many coffee shops.

To someone attempting to complete the parks assignment, I would recommend spreading out the trips to the parks.  I tackled the trips in one evening and I wish I had given myself more time to soak in the different parks.  I would also suggest exploring the parks with friends, because you can later discuss your experiences, and the different impressions the individuals from your entourage had about the parks.