Monroe County Master Gardener Association

Story & Photos by Gail K.

Despite a few of us getting turned around; we all reached the Beach Ridge Area in
the Oak Openings Metropark.

This is where the Cannaley TreeHouse Village is located; and the destination for our September tour.

Upon arrival; we were greeted by Nick & Patty, Park Rangers, who will lead our tour.

They shared the history behind the creation of this unique aspect within the Toledo Metropark system.

With everyone accounted for, we begin the walk to the village; Nick answering the many questions we had & sharing much more information on the Metro-Parks in Toledo.

Walking along the path we could peer thru the trees & catch sneak peeks at what lie ahead:      LOOK!  OVER THERE, ANOTHER ONE!!

Reaching the official entry point:

 we were given a brief description of each structure and sent off to explore at our own pace……

Here is a map of the village, the descriptive info on each treehouse, can be found on the Toledo Metropark web site.

Excited & eager to check things out- we scattered in different directions. Looking around, my first impression: this was gonna be way too cool!!  C’mon, let’s get started.

Pick a path…..

From my unique vantage point-I was overlooking-
WHOA–Look, over that way–
Where are those gals headed off to???

Our guides stayed on site- no questions went unanswered

There was much thought & planning put into the design-
construction was done to protect the environment as
well as the trees which were used; along with ensuring the structures would be safe for use………… 

You need to see what the various tree houses offer inside as well, since they are all different.

These are not like any tree house I ever saw as a kid.

The sleeping quarters were very unique in each treehouse-based on a theme…………

living areas and kitchens varied as well—
No two alike in any aspect……….

The cabins varied in occupancy limits. Exterior colors were chosen to enhance blending in with their surroundings.  

You could look to the right and to the left:
You could look up and then down.
Cabins and pathways were tucked in all around

ABOVE: I knew those girls were up to no good—ha ha

Our treehouse adventure brought the “kid’ out in all of us. It reminded me of the Ewok village in the Star War movies.
BELOW:   Yeah, I see you Tom!!!

Time’s up-meeting @ the swing set, ‘Smores please???Walking to our cars, we pass by the bike trail; most of us will be making one more stop before heading home….

   APPLES OR PUMPKINS ANYONE????

 It was a good day!! I must say, my photos do not dojustice to the treehouse village.  I suggest you take a
look for yourself…check the web site for public viewing timesand who knows, you may decide to bunk there for a day or two.