Canoing, Kayaking, Rafting

❄️🚶🏻‍♂️ Join us once again for this year's winter's night walks - final walk of the year! A shorter walk starting at London Bridge Station and covering some of the most iconic views of London city ... we start with some food at the **Winter by the River** market (plenty of Halal food options available). *Check timings / locations below if you want to join later at the food market and do not wish to/or have time to eat first.* 🎦 [A winter's night walk...](https://www.instagram.com/reel/ClrsH-LIZuK) 🟢 SHORT WALK: 📏7km (4.3 miles) 🚥 [View Walking/Hiking Levels Here](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPRjEOPjW8B/) ✊ *Note: You will see plenty of pretty lights along the way and have the opportunity view / to take pictures, but this is not a Christmas lights tour per se (there are plenty of other groups for such walks this time of year). Active Muslims is equally about focusing on the actual activity, in this case, it is a paced walk (and not a stroll), therefore it is advised to approach and attend these events with that mindset, intention and [purpose](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DBhPWpdIMKq/?igsh=MWVjdnZrdGZwd3dmYw%3D%3D).* 📍 **Meeting Point**: [Pin Location Here](https://maps.app.goo.gl/HAQKBszAwyvfYZfg8) (and on meetup): '**The Queens Walk**', Riverside, close to **Mayor's Office**, '**The Scoop**' and near the **'Black bean'** \- closest station is **London Bridge Station** only 5 mins walk. ⌚ Meet from **6:15pm** or even earlier if you wish to find/eat something first. We start the walk at **6:41pm** **sharp** insha'Allah - *you can arrive any time in-between so we will not wait for anyone running late.* ↪️ Starts: **London Bridge/Riverside** ↩️ Ends: **Bond Street Station** (Jubilee, Central, Elizabeth lines) *⚠️ It is a very busy time of year, extra care is required to be mindful of your surroundings, crossing roads, our group and people around you. You also need to make sure you keep the group in sight as we cannot wait for anyone losing the group.* ⛑️ You are responsible for your own safety and your own belonging at all times. 🗂️ "No shows" for previous events may be moved to the waitlist/not going to prioritise reliable attendees / new joiners - ***when there is a waiting list, priority is given by attendance records / new joiners.*** 📊 [[why it matters](https://tinyurl.com/28sh83cn)] 🌐 **[@Active.Muslims](https://www.instagram.com/active.muslims)** *(Follow for latest events updates)* 🚦 **[Walk/Hike Levels:](https://www.instagram.com/share/reel/BBxV4zomeZ)** 🟢 Easy 🟡 Average 🟠 Moderate 🔴 Challenging ⚫ Very Challenging

Если вы когда-нибудь мечтали увидеть тюленей, греющихся на берегу, то время пришло😍! Мы отправляемся на побережье северного Норфолка, которое славится первозданной природной красотой👍🏻. Возможно, именно поэтому его облюбовали тюлени, обитающие здесь круглый год. Грациозные в воде и немного неуклюжие на суше, с трогательными мордочками, огромные самцы, изящные самочки и крохотные детеныши — весь пляж просто усыпан животными, а воздух наполнен их криками. Вы можете наблюдать за морскими созданиями со специально оборудованных смотровых площадок или отважиться и подойти как можно ближе. Но не стоит забывать, что на суше тюлени чувствуют себя уязвимо, а потому необходимо обращать внимание на обозначения огороженных участков, созданных ради безопасности как людей, так и животных🛑. Нас ждет потрясающее зрелище, которое подарит море впечатлений, эмоций и множество замечательных фотографий! А ещё местечко Horsey Gap прославилось тем, что в 2015 году на его пляже родились первые в мире официально зарегистрированные тюлени-двойняшки! Прекрасным завершением дня после неспешной прогулки станет обед в пабе Nelson Head🍧. *** 📝План поездки: 📍**08:45 Встреча** у отеля **[Ibis London City Hotel](https://goo.gl/maps/ucQmtxqwjZs)**, 5 Commercial St, E1 6BF (рядом со станцией Aldgate East Station) 📍11:00 — 11:30 [St Georges](https://www.englishwhisky.co.uk/), остановка для дегустации/покупки английского виски (без тура по винокурне) 📍12:20 Короткая остановка у ветряной мельницы [Horsey](https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/horsey-windpump) для фотографий 📍12:30 — 14:30 Прогулка вдоль дюн Северного моря (Horsey Gap) в поисках тюленей 📍15:00 — 16:15 Домики с соломенными крышами и обед в деревне Horning на берегу озера 📍16:15 Отправление 📍19:00 London, Aldgate East 👣Продолжительность путешествия зависит от погодных условий и дорожных пробок. *** 🎁Включено в бронирование: ⚜️Аудиогид на русском ⚜️Тур-менеджер, говорящий на русском и английском языках ⚜️Транспорт, организация мероприятия ⚜️Профессиональный водитель с курсами IAM/RoSPA ⚜️Администрация и помощь во время путешествия ⚜️НДС и все налоги, комиссия платежной системы (карта/банк/PayPal) *** 🙅🏼‍♀️Не включено: ❌Питание во время путешествия: индивидуальный выбор ❌Трансфер в место встречи и после завершения поездки ❌Остановки автобуса для посадки/высадки пассажиров по пути следования ❌[Страховка](https://www.coverwise.co.uk/) в случае травм, потери багажа и личных вещей, отмены тура в последнюю минуту ❌[Evebus Club](https://evebus.com/ru/evebus-club/) – привилегии для участников программы, в том числе переносы броней без потерь ❌Экскурсовод: £20 с человека при условии набора группы от 6-ти участников *** 🎒Что взять с собой: ✅Воду/еду по желанию ✅Фотокамеру и зарядку для телефона ✅Хорошее настроение 🙂 ✳️Обо всем остальном мы позаботимся. Поэтому просто явитесь в указанное время и место и наслаждайтесь поездкой😉! 📩Этот тур, как и все путешествия Evebus, может быть организован в частном порядке! Для участия в индивидуальных поездках, пожалуйста, обращайтесь на info@evebus.com с пометкой «Тур на заказ».

We will enjoy a leisurely walk (approx 45 mins - 1 hour) along Regent's Canal from Angel station and ending at the fabulous Victoria Park Market. This event usually runs on the 4th Sunday of each month, unless there is bad weather or exceptional circumstances. There is a wondering food market in Victoria Park, and most of us will get something to eat together. We usually sit on the grass or public benches (if available) near the Bonner Gate entrance, behind the Dogs of Alcibiades statue. This is at the intersection of foodstalls running north/south and east/west. If it is raining or the market is closed, we can either go to the Pavillion cafe, or The Crown pub on Grove Road instead. WE WILL WAIT ONLY ABOUT 10 MINUTES AFTER THE START TIME. If you are running late, please catch us up along the canal. Please note, I will not be checking for meetup or whatsapp messages after the walk starts. We are a welcoming group, so feel free to mix around and say hello other people. You are responsible for yourselves on the walk, so please bring appropriate footwear etc. Please be mindful of those around you, especially where the canal gets narrow in places. Whatsapp group here: https://chat.whatsapp.com/IJd6MJfVDPC6jUw6iW77ZY Previously, there was a separate walk on the 3rd Sunday of the month, which started at Limehouse Basin, and then ran along the same canal to Victoria Park. Please note, the walks starting from Limehouse on the 3rd Sunday of the month are now cancelled for the foreseeable future.

**New Year’s Eve Walking Holiday – Northumberland** Join **Large Outdoors** for a five-night hotel-based New Year break exploring the quiet beauty of the Northumberland Coast. With guided walks along vast beaches and through castle-dotted landscapes, this is a longer escape designed for those who want extra time to relax and explore. ### **What to Expect:** 🚶 **Guided Walks** – Explore stretches of the Northumberland Coast Path with views of Bamburgh Castle, Holy Island and quiet coastal villages. 🌿 **Scenic Highlights** – Big skies, peaceful beaches, and a sense of space perfect for a reflective start to the new year. 🛌 **Accommodation Type** – Hotel stay with ensuite rooms and a warm welcome. ☕ **Relaxed & Sociable Atmosphere** – Enjoy a small group format, evening meals, and a New Year’s celebration without the crowds. 📅 **Dates:** Sunday 28 December 2025 – Friday 2 January 2026 📍 **Location:** Northumberland Coast 🔗 **Full details & booking:** [https://www.largeoutdoors.com/scenic-walking-holiday-northumberland](https://www.largeoutdoors.com/scenic-walking-holiday-northumberland)

**Join Us for an Epic Irish Night in Soho! 🎉🍻🍀** Get ready for an memorable evening at **Waxy O'Connor**, Soho's coolest Irish bar, right in the heart of London! ✨ We're gathering downstairs at the Cottage Bar for a night of pure, foot-stomping fun. 🕺💃 **What to Expect:** * **🎶 Live Folk Music**: The stage comes alive at **7 PM** with authentic folk tunes that'll have you singing along, dancing on benches, and channeling your inner leprechaun! * **🍴 Classic Irish Bites**: Dig into hearty pub grub like fish and chips, shepherd's pie, or loaded nachos—comfort food that hits all the right spots. * **🍺 Central Bar Vibes**: Sip on frosty pints of Guinness, crisp lagers, or expertly mixed Irish cocktails in a warm, buzzing atmosphere. * **🪑 Cozy Spots for All**: Claim a snug booth, pull up a bar stool, or join the crowd on communal benches—**everyone is welcome** to the craic! **📍 Where**: Waxy O'Connor, 14-16 Rupert St, London W1D 6DD. *Head downstairs to the Cottage Bar section—follow the sound of fiddles and laughter!* **📌 Pro Tip**: Arrive at the start time to snag the best area at the bar. No tickets required—free entry, first-come, first-served. Come for the pints, stay for the folk, and leave with stories that'll have you grinning for days. Let's make this Irish gem roar! 🎤🍻😎 *See you downstairs—sláinte!* \*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\* **Some Tips:** 1. **Let’s all commit to updating our RSVPs if plans change**—it helps us plan better and ensures great attendance for everyone. If you RSVP “yes” but don’t attend and don’t update your RSVP, you may be removed from the group to keep things fair. No stress, though—you can rejoin for a small £10 fee! Just send me a DM, and I’ll share the PayPal details to get you back in. 2. **Turn Up on Time at the start!** This helps the quality of the event and helps you. 3. If you are struggling with the **app**, use the web page instead, that's what I use. 4. **Attendee Numbers & Guest Lists:** We have this event listed at least on two groups and the guest list includes attendees from all. You can see the list of attendees here: [https://www.meetup.com/zensingles/](https://www.meetup.com/zensingles/) [https://www.meetup.com/cityzenlondon/](https://www.meetup.com/cityzenlondon/) [https://www.meetup.com/LoveLife](https://www.meetup.com/LoveLife) 5. Join our **social media**: **Instagram**: [https://www.instagram.com/cityzen.london/](https://www.instagram.com/cityzen.london/) **X:** https://x.com/CityZenLondon 6. **Our WhatsApp group:** [See private comment in the comments section below]. We have a few rules including no ads, no DMs unless recipient is in the "Direct Messaging List" or risk removal and £10 rejoin fee. 7. **Support Our Amazing London Event Hosts! 🙌** Our incredible crew of hosts is the heartbeat of London’s buzzing meetup scene, bringing people together for unforgettable experiences that spark connection, growth, and fun! 🌟 From museum adventures to flirty dating mixers, these rockstar hosts pour their energy, time, and passion into creating events that level up your social and communication skills. But hosting isn’t easy—it takes resources, effort, and heart. 💖 Please consider supporting our hosts with a donation to keep the good vibes flowing and help us make London the ultimate social hub! 🚀 Below, meet our hosts for this event and see how you can chip in to fuel their amazing work. 8. To encourage signing up early to events and regulate the number of attendees a late joiner/overflow fee may be applied to an event for any **additional** people wanting to join the event. This may happen on the day or even an hour before the event. So there may be people who obtained a free RSVP to network with our group and some who had to pay. If you have successfully signed up to our event on meetup paid or not then you are in. Happy networking **Zen & The Meetup Groups** *The Visionary Social Connector* Zen, our AI guru with 25 years in the game, founded these meetups to transform his own social skills and now helps others do the same. From sparking in-person networking to coordinating epic events, Zen’s passion for connection is unstoppable. Help him keep the momentum going! Support Zen: Donate to cover event planning tools, venue bookings, and more. **[Donation Link](https://paypal.me/Zenswalks)** \*\*\*\* **Disclaimer, Liability Waiver & Media Consent** By attending this event, you acknowledge and agree to the following: **Organiser Identity** – The organiser operates under the community name **“ZEN”**, which is used as an alias for privacy and branding purposes. By joining, you understand that “ZEN” refers to the organiser and/or designated hosts of this event. **Assumption of Risk** – You understand and accept that participation in any social, recreational, or group activity involves inherent risks, including but not limited to personal injury, illness, property damage, or other unforeseen incidents. You voluntarily choose to attend at your own sole risk. **Personal Responsibility** – You are solely responsible for your own safety, health, wellbeing, and personal belongings at all times. It is your responsibility to exercise good judgment, act responsibly, and take appropriate precautions before, during, and after the event. **No Organiser Liability** – The organiser, hosts, volunteers, and the community known as **ZEN** accept no responsibility and shall not be held liable for any injury, loss, damage, accident, theft, or any other issue that may arise as a result of your participation. **Guests** – If you bring guests, you accept full responsibility for their conduct, safety, and understanding of this disclaimer. **Independent Event** – This event may be held in conjunction with other social or non-singles meetup groups. ZEN is not responsible for the actions, behaviour, or arrangements of any third parties. **Media Consent** – By attending this event, you consent to being photographed, filmed, or recorded. You grant ZEN and its organisers the irrevocable right to use such images and recordings for promotional, marketing, social media, and community purposes without compensation or further approval. If you do not wish to be photographed or recorded, it is your responsibility to inform the organiser in advance and to remove yourself from areas where filming or photography is taking place. **Acceptance of Terms** – By attending, you confirm that you have read, understood, and accepted this disclaimer. You release ZEN, its organisers, hosts, volunteers, and members from all claims, demands, or causes of action, whether known or unknown, arising out of your participation or the use of photography/videography captured at the event. Your attendance at this event signifies your full acceptance of this policy. If you do not agree, you should not attend.

Ready to ditch the boring tours? Join us for the **Unconventional Friend-Maker Tour**—your guaranteed pathway to **laughter 😂, making new friends from around the world 🌍**, and seeing London like a true local! **Important**: please register on this [page](https://www.meetup.com/your-london-exploration-family-of-fun/events/312296041/?recId=192b19e1-8a4b-4ad9-abe3-dfa3a03b2392&recSource=event-search&searchId=4d0daa5b-e84e-4382-aab8-dfd7f70c0bbb&eventOrigin=find_page%24all) (please click on the URL for the original event page). We are **unlike any other tour provider**; this is an active, social, and creative daytime adventure designed for connection. Don't just take our word for it: **our clients are 100% happy!** Please message either Jingyi: +44 &487 832243 or Avi: +44 7391 692387. 👏On this tour, you'll get to experience: * ✴ **Outernet:** Know the latest digital art piece. * 🎡 **London Eye:** Stroll along the iconic riverside, * **Big Ben:** Uncover the history of the famous big clock and feel the **vibrant, romantic energy** surrounding London’s most famous landmark. * 🥂 **Trafalgar Sqaure:** Immerse yourself in **London’s artistic elegance**, surrounded by grand architecture, lively culture, and the charm of the city’s sophisticated heart. \#\#\# 🎲 Games Designed for Friends & Fun This tour is built around interaction to ensure you leave with new connections: * 🤝 **Icebreaker Trivia Titans:** Test your London knowledge as we hit iconic spots! Expect **hilarious, interaction-based questions** that require you to **collaborate closely** with your teammates. * 📸 **The Ultimate Global Photo Challenge:** Forget stiff selfies! You'll receive a set of highly **creative photo prompts** for each neighbourhood. Capture amazing memories *with* your new international friends. * 🗺️ **Urban Treasure Hunt Twist (The Collaboration Catalyst):** Scattered clues and secret missions lead you between districts, forcing you to **team up and collaborate** with new friends to unlock the next stage of our journey. This is a high-energy, cross-cultural puzzle where teamwork means success! 🥳 This unique experience is **10 pounds,** payable on site. We believe in making our tours accessible to everyone while ensuring our passionate guides can continue to share their love for London. For those who can't join us in person, the journey will be recorded 🎥, so you can still be part of the adventure! 😎 Lace up your walking shoes 👟, bring your appetite and **waterproof jacket** in case of rain, and get ready for a memorable adventure that celebrates the best of London's diverse and delicious neighbourhoods.

**To attend YOU MUST PURCHASE TICKETS HERE: [https://joinoutsiders.com/iceland](https://joinoutsiders.com/iceland)** ### AT A GLANCE An Iceland adventure to ring in the new year! Iceland in the winter is one of the most unique environments in the world and the perfect place for our New Year’s Eve adventure. This trip is made for outdoor enthusiasts who not only like to dive head-first into outdoor adventures but who also want to be immersed in a foreign culture. Each activity you can (or cannot) find yourself doing is a hand-picked, one-of-a-kind experience only Iceland can offer. Most people choose to visit Iceland in winter because of the high chance of seeing the Northern Lights. That’s not all we’re going there for. We plan on seeing the glacier lagoon, taking you on many hikes, bathing in the blue lagoon, potentially seeing the flowing lava of the active volcano, and of course exploring the city streets. *\*Final itinerary subject to change\** ITINERARY ### What To Expect ## **28th DECEMBER** (Leave the U.S. on December 27th) **ARRIVAL – SOUTH COAST - KIRKJUBÆJARKLAUSTUR** After you land in Keflavik airport. Our guide and driver will meet you at the airport and take you straight to the South Coast where we’ll spend two days exploring all the exciting sites and landscapes. Highlights include Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, Skogarfoss Waterfall, Dyrholaey Peninsula and Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach by Vík Village. **Overnight at Hotel Kria** ## **29th DECEMBER** **GLACIER LAGOON** Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before heading over to the Glacier Lagoon where we will see the famous icebergs floating on the lagoon. If we’re lucky we might spot some seals. Afterward, we’ll go on an exploratory hike. When the sun goes down we should be able to see the northern lights if the skies are clear. **Overnight at Hotel Kria** ## **30th DECEMBER** **FROM THE EAST TO REYKJAVIK** After breakfast, it’s time to head back to Reykjavik. On the way back our guide will show us some of the highlights of the South Coast before taking us to Reykjavik where we’ll spend the next four nights. **Overnight at Hotel Island** ## **31st DECEMBER** **NEW YEARS EVE** We have a free day to explore Reykjavik on our own. At night we’ll have our New Years’ dinner together at Hotel Island. After dinner we’ll walk down to Hallgrimskirkja Church at midnight to experience the authentic Icelandic New Years’ Eve fireworks show! **Overnight at Hotel Island.** ## **1st JANUARY** **FREE DAY** We have the day to ourselves in Reykjavik. Some of us may explore the city some more while others will take it easy potentially nursing a hangover from the night before. Whatever you decide, the day is yours! This is a good day to check out this famous [Tommi's ](https://tohttps//youtu.be/zOfYZSIJRjQ?si=Sx-Ppz008Hq0UXfg)***[Burger Joint](https://tohttps//youtu.be/zOfYZSIJRjQ?si=Sx-Ppz008Hq0UXfg)*** in Reykjavik. **Overnight at Hotel Island** ## **2nd JANUARY** **VOLCANO HIKE - BLUE LAGOON** We have a private bus taking us to the active volcano in Geldingadalur. After the hike the driver will take us to the famous Blue Lagoon where we can spend the evening relaxing in the milky blue waters. **Overnight at Hotel Island** ## **3rd JANUARY** **DEPARTURE** We’ll have a private airport transfer by bus to Keflavik Airport. WHERE WE’RE STAYING ### Hotel kria Hotel Kría is a modern hotel built in 2018. We are located just beside road No. 1, also known as the Ring Road, in the village Vik, South Iceland. Our strategic location is the perfect base for discovering the natural treasures of the breathtaking south coast. ### Hótel Ísland Hótel Ísland is centrally located next to Laugardalur, a place offering Iceland’s largest outdoor thermal pool, a botanic garden, Reykjavík park and zoo, an ice skating hall and a sports center. Apart from that the financial district of Reykjavík is just around the corner. Hótel Ísland offers refreshing accommodation for your comfortable and relaxing stay in Iceland's vibrant capital just two kilometres from the city centre. All main attractions are just minutes away, making the hotel ideally placed to access the very best of what Reykjavík has to offer. The city centre offers a variety of shops, restaurants, museums and cultural activities as well as an exciting nightlife HERE’S THE BREAKDOWN OF ### What’s included Price includes: * 2 nights in a standard room at Hotel Kria incl. breakfast * 4 nights in a standard room at Hotel Island incl. breakfast * Private bus and guide from day 1-3 * Private bus transfer to the active volcano – Blue Lagoon - Reykjavik * Blue Lagoon comfort entrance incl. use of towel, silica mud mask and 1st drink free of choice * New Years menu at Hotel Island * Private transfer by bus from Hotel Island to Kopar, from Kopar to Keflavik Airport (no guide incl.) **EXCLUDED:** * **Please Note:** Airfare is not included in this package. * Flights to and from Iceland * Cancellation insurance * Travel Insurance * Optional excursions * Meals other than specified * Personal expenses **To attend YOU MUST PURCHASE TICKETS HERE: [https://joinoutsiders.com/iceland](https://joinoutsiders.com/iceland)**

Are you ready to shoot unusual, creative portraits and learn about making the most of light? Shooting each other we'll try to get the best out of everyone and you'll get some tips to help you get the best out of the event. The thing about shooting portraits is that they are super fun! So out challenge today is knowing how to make people look good and shooting in a creative way. We'll set a few challenges to get you pointed in the right direction. To help get your creative juices flowing you'll work in a group which will allow you to bounce ideas off each other. Shooting each other we'll try to get the best out of everyone and you'll get some tips to make sure you get some great shots! Bring some props or wear something wacky and prepare to have a super fun day! EXPERIENCE * Any EQUIPMENT * Any camera * Any lens OTHER ESSENTIALS * Check the weather and wear appropriate clothing/shoes * A fun and experimental attitude! TRAVEL * As usual check TFL website for any issues that may delay your journey CONTACT Alex 07956 264049 UPCOMING EVENTS www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events/calendar Photo ©Drew Garty

**BOOK HERE**: https://sportas.co.uk/games/42845 **Game Description:** Please be aware that our sessions are also on our own mobile app. Therefore, the number of participants you currently see may not reflect the total number of participants. Elevate your volleyball skills at our adult coaching sessions! Led by expert coaches, our sessions cater to all levels, from beginners to experienced players. Develop your technique, agility, and teamwork through drills and gameplay. Join our vibrant community and unleash your full potential on the court. Let's play, learn, and excel together. **Rules** By booking this session, you acknowledge and agree to comply with our terms and conditions, privacy policies, and cancellation policy, which can be found below. Terms & Conditions at: https://www.littlegiantsvc.com/terms-and-conditions Privacy Policy at: https://www.littlegiantsvc.com/privacy-policy

**History** [Blacklick Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blacklick-woods/), established in 1949, holds the distinction of being the first Columbus Metro Park. Its creation stemmed from a post-World War II push to preserve natural areas amid rapid suburban growth. The land, originally farmland and woodlots along Blacklick Creek, was acquired by the Columbus Metropolitan Park Board through donations and purchases. Early efforts focused on basic trail development and reforestation to combat erosion. The park's name derives from the creek, which early settlers called "Black Lick" due to its dark, mineral-rich waters. By the 1950s, it served as a model for the expanding Metro Parks system. In the 1960s, Blacklick Woods expanded significantly with additional land acquisitions, reaching over 600 acres. A golf course was added in 1964, one of the first public courses in the region, designed to generate revenue for park maintenance. Native American artifacts, including arrowheads from the Adena culture, were discovered during construction, highlighting the area's prehistoric use as hunting grounds. The park introduced interpretive programs to educate visitors on local ecology and history. Flood control measures along the creek became a priority after heavy rains caused damage. These developments solidified its role as a recreational hub. The 1970s and 1980s brought environmental awareness, leading to habitat restoration projects at Blacklick Woods. Invasive species were removed, and native wildflowers were planted in the meadows. A nature center opened in 1976, featuring exhibits on wetlands and forests. The park's slate-covered bridge, a remnant of 19th-century infrastructure, was preserved as a historic feature. Birdwatching gained popularity with the addition of observation decks. Community volunteers played a key role in trail maintenance and cleanups. During the 1990s, Blacklick Woods underwent major upgrades, including paved multi-use trails for biking and hiking. The Walter A. Tucker Nature Preserve, a 53-acre old-growth forest within the park, was dedicated in 1995 to protect rare beech-maple woodlands. Educational partnerships with local schools introduced field trips on topics like stream ecology. The golf course was renovated to improve playability while minimizing environmental impact. Annual events, such as the fall festival, drew thousands to celebrate the park's natural beauty. These enhancements balanced recreation with conservation. In the 21st century, Blacklick Woods has adapted to increasing visitation with sustainable practices. Solar panels were installed at facilities in the 2010s to reduce energy costs. The park now spans 643 acres, offering diverse habitats from wetlands to uplands. Recent initiatives include pollinator gardens and prescribed burns to maintain prairie areas. It remains a flagship for the Metro Parks, inspiring similar preservations system-wide. Ongoing archaeological surveys continue to uncover traces of early inhabitants. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Blacklick Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BLK-map-May-2025-with-extended-greenway_1980px.jpg). **Summary** For this event, we will hike about 4.5 miles by doing a couple loops of the Buttonbush, Tucker, Maple Loop, and Beech trails. Blacklick Woods is a very nice park, but it is generally flat and not strenuous, so this will be one of the easier hikes that we do. **Where We'll Meet** Drive all the way to the back of the park to the parking lot that is nearest the Nature Center. There are restrooms here next to the Canopy Walk. We'll meet near these restrooms. Speaking of the [Canopy Walk](https://www.metroparks.net/blog/canopy-walk-is-your-gateway-to-the-sky/), it's not officially part of the event this time. However, if interested people want to freelance and check it out after the hike (before heading to the brewery), that's okay. **After the Hike** After we're done with the trails, we'll head to [Prost Beer & Wine Café](https://prostcafe.com/) for drinks and [food](https://prostcafe.com/reynoldsburg-prost-beer-and-wine-cafe-food-menu). The actual address of the brewery is [7354 E Main St, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068](https://www.google.com/maps/place/7354+E+Main+St,+Reynoldsburg,+OH+43068/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x8838648cfb8d2dbb:0x545274bab130e9bb?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and we should be there by 5:00 if you just want to do that and skip the hike.

We will meet next to the restrooms at the [Big Meadows Picnic Area](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/HBK_Web_1980.png). They're all the way at the back of the park, and they can be found at coordinates [40°09'06.6"N 83°02'30.2"W](https://www.google.com/maps/place/40%C2%B009'06.6%22N+83%C2%B002'30.2%22W/@40.151828,-83.0423587,214m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m10!1m5!3m4!2zNDDCsDA5JzA4LjAiTiA4M8KwMDEnNDUuMSJX!8m2!3d40.1522222!4d-83.0291944!3m3!8m2!3d40.151827!4d-83.041715?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTIwNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) (near the playground and the zip line). We'll hike about 5 miles at [Highbanks Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/highbanks/) on the Dripping Rock and Overlook Trails. Afterward, we'll head over to [Olentangy River Brewing](https://www.olentangybrew.com/) for drinks, coffee, or food (their Sunday [food truck](https://www.olentangybrew.com/eventsandfood) is Venezuelan and always gets good reviews). The actual address of the brewery is [303 Green Meadows Dr S, 43035](https://www.google.com/maps/place/303+Green+Meadows+Dr+S,+Lewis+Center,+OH+43035/@40.1551938,-83.0144045,17.25z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x8838f395cef06c97:0xe407de61b3e30069!8m2!3d40.1551765!4d-83.0124352!16s%2Fg%2F11c26jc7j9?entry=ttu). If you can't make the hike, we should be there by noon. **How to find our starting point in Big Meadows:** If you are new to Highbanks, the Big Meadows picnic area is 1.5 miles into the park just after you turn into the park off of U.S. Route 23. That is, after you enter the park, drive a mile and a half into the park. You will come to a crosswalk with a yield sign in the middle of it (this is not to be confused with the first such crosswalk you come to just in front of the Nature Center, which you arrive at maybe a quarter of a mile into the park). Just after this second crosswalk, make a left. Then make another almost immediate left into the parking lot on your left. There you will see the jungle gym and the kiddie zip line to your left. I will be just in front of the restrooms just a bit further down from the jungle gym and picnic shelter; the restroom building will also be on your left.

Looking for a creative night out that isn’t boring or corporate? Come hang out at **The Arcane Foundry** for an open candle bar and a 3D print paint and sip! Choose something from our 3D-printed shelf — *think ceramic paint-and-sip, but way cooler and with custom models we print in-house.* Or head to the candle bar and pick your fragrances to pour your own **pillar candle or container candle**. Sip complimentary tea, enjoy bakery snacks, and **BYOB wine or beer** while you paint, pour, and make whatever the hell you feel like making. No experience needed — this is all vibes, fun, and meeting new people while creating something you’ll actually want to take home. Starting at a very low price of $10 **All materials included. You just bring yourself (and your drink of choice).**

**Calling all queer crochet enthusiasts;** I am a visual artist located in Columbus that is searching for people who may want to gather while also participating in creating a piece of artwork. My goal is to spend time enjoying one another’s company while making a work of art that will be displayed within our community. I plan to teach people to crochet (if unfamiliar) while also inviting current fiber artists to join us for some much-needed social interaction. There are no expectations from those who attend, materials will be included, and any amount of participation is welcome! If you have a favorite crochet hook or current project you are welcome to bring that along too! The primary goal is to foster a safe space for our community to chat, create and be. For further information please email [landerknits@outlook.com.](http://landerknits@outlook.com.) \*This will be our first meeting, bring friends and make new ones. Come as you are and make along side other like-minded folks.