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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! Check out mapping events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.

Discover all the mapping events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.

Absolutely! Find mapping events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.

Mapping Events Today

Join in-person Mapping events happening right now

Pulau Ubin Hike
Pulau Ubin Hike
Off-the-Beaten-Track Hike: Buangkok Forest 🌳
Off-the-Beaten-Track Hike: Buangkok Forest 🌳
Join us for an 8km “off the beaten track” hike through a quiet pocket of greenery where the city fades into soft, natural calm. The route is easy to follow and sprinkled with a few muddy patches, so good shoes and a bit of adventure spirit will help. Do come prepared for mosquitoes, as this area is more natural than manicured. This walk is best for participants who are relatively healthy, comfortable with longer distances and have no fitness concerns 💪. If you’re ready for fresh air and a trail that feels refreshingly different from the usual paths, come set out on this quiet adventure with us. 🌿✨ This Meetup group is a community-led group by volunteers, who enjoy the Great Outdoors (GO) and would like to share the GO with u too! 🤎✌️😃 This is a free community walk, created simply for the joy of exploring together. To keep the spirit of the walk genuine and relaxed, we don’t involve donations, promotions, or sales of any kind. We warmly ask everyone to be punctual and considerate of fellow walkers, so that the journey remains smooth and enjoyable for all. 😊😊 Late cancellations or no-shows may affect your priority for future walks. The 'going' list may not necessarily follow a strict sequence. 🔄 To protect your privacy, we do not collect telephone numbers 📵. Communication will be through the Event page. Kindly check for any updates, especially on the day of the event, so that you will be updated on any changes. The route may be amended or the hike postponed in the event of inclement weather, for the safety of our walkers. 🚶🚶‍♂️ As part of Meetup's enhanced privacy/ security measures, the meeting point will now be visible to attendees only. Exercise care while you walk. Please inform us when you feel unwell and need to drop out. *Disclaimer: By joining this walk, you assume responsibility for your own safety and well-being 🚸, and will not hold the organizers/hosts liable for any loss or injury or other unforeseen events, ensuring a shared commitment to a safe and enjoyable experience for all. 😊 Thank you. 🙏
SWP #179: Photo Walk - Clarke Quay
SWP #179: Photo Walk - Clarke Quay
**Come join us for a fun and exciting photography meetup at Clarke Quay! This vibrant and colorful area is the perfect spot to capture some amazing photos.** **You can expect to photograph the beautiful architecture, bustling nightlife, and lively street scenes. Bring your mobile phone or any camera you have - it doesn't matter if you're a pro or a beginner, we're all here to have fun and learn together.** **Join us if you are interested in photography. It doesn't matter if you are a pro or a beginner; we do it for the love of photography. We'll kick off with a short meet and greet before heading out to click pictures together.** **After our photo walk, we'll end at a nearby coffee shop to chat and share our experiences.** **This is a free event, but please RSVP to let us know you're coming. If you have any trouble finding us or have questions, feel free to call or text: Jay: +65 9352 0249 Sandeep: +65 8609 1667** **Join our WhatsApp group for live location sharing: https://chat.whatsapp.com/D9YcKn9GR7jH8q2U2g0xld?mode=hqctcli We share our live location there to help everyone stay connected — especially as people naturally wander off while shooting.** **Meeting Point: Clarke Quay MRT - Clarke Quay MRT — Exit C (The Central / Read Bridge)** **Route: Read Bridge → Circular Rd → Carpenter St**
[Mini Hike] Maju Forest
[Mini Hike] Maju Forest
Meet: King Albert Park MRT Station (DT6) Passenger Service Centre When: Saturday 23rd May 4pm\*\* Event communication will be through the event chat. Please check the event chat on the day of the event to stay updated on any changes.\*\*\* Do something different on a Saturday. Join us for a Mini Hike through the Maju Forest. There will be \*MUD\*! Come prepared with a good hiking shoe. The Jurong Railway Tunnel is an abandoned, 1960s-era freight railway tunnel located under Clementi Road, near Maju Camp and the Bukit Timah area in Singapore. Built around 1965 to connect the Jurong industrial estate to the main railway line, the structure is a popular urban exploration spot known for its muddy conditions, "hidden", and often flooded, passageway covered by jungle. - *Mothership* We will end at Clementi Mall for dinner What to bring: \- Shades \- umbrellas \- Water \- Good walking shoes \- Long pants preferred \- Mosquito Repellent This is a Rain or Shine event. Where there are thunderstorms, we will adjourn for coffee or early dinner. We will resume the walk once the rain subsides. Event communication will be through the event chat. Please check the event chat on the day of the event so that you will be updated on any changes. Please try to be punctual. There will be 5 minutes grace for attendance taking. Please remember that we cannot wait because this would be unfair to those already present. Please keep in mind that I may not respond to messages sent after the walk starts because I will be busy helping the attendees and leading the walk. Please RSVP responsibly to help those on the waitlist get the chance to come for the walks. ***As a consideration for others, please confirm your RSVPs the day before the event to allow those on the waitlist sufficient time to schedule for the event.*** Thank you for your kind understanding. Disclaimer: Your physical well-being is your responsibility. Exercise care while you walk. Please let me know when you feel unwell and need to drop out. Walking comes with a risk of personal injury. ***By joining the walk, you accept responsibility for your safety and join the walk at your own risk. The organizer(s) will not be responsible or held liable for any accidents or injuries during or arising from the event.***
Live Share Care walk in support of Pack2Treat with Adventures Unlimited
Live Share Care walk in support of Pack2Treat with Adventures Unlimited
🌿 Adventure Unlimited Live Share Care Walk – Pack2Treat Support Event 🌿 Join us for a meaningful morning of connection, care, and gentle movement in support of Pack2Treat. We begin our Live Share Care Walk from **Katong Park MRT (Exit 1)**, stepping out into the soft coastal air where the east coast breeze meets early morning light. The route carries us through a refreshing blend of sea-side calm, park connectors, and river-side paths, where city noise slowly fades into rustling trees, open skies, and the rhythm of shared footsteps. [Pls note TEL late opening at 8.30am.] This is not just a walk — it is a journey through Singapore’s everyday beauty, from coastal neighbourhoods into the heart of our river corridors, ending at Geylang Bahru Market. At Geylang Bahru, we come together for a lunch distribution for elderly residents, especially seniors living alone. This is the heart of our purpose — to share warmth, dignity, and care through food and presence. After the walk, all participants are warmly invited to: \*Grab a simple brunch before spend time supporting older hawkers, provision shops, and mom-and-pop stores in the market These small businesses and elderly vendors are part of the same living fabric we are walking for — let’s continue that care with our choices and support. 🕛 Important reminder: Lunch for the elderly will be served by 12 noon sharp, so please enjoy a light brunch beforehand and return with energy and heart for the service. Let’s walk not just for health, but for community. For our seniors. For our hawkers. For each other. 🌱 Walk Distance : 9km - 2 hrs easy Brunch and Food marketing : 1.5 hr Food distribution : 1 hr **As of May all pack2treat schedule will be change so that participants can join us to shop and distribute food . Previously due to timing food distribution is handled by pack2treat volunteer closer to dinner time. Pack2treat's volunteer will assist and guide on food marketing and distribution the day.** **Please read this:** #1 – Attendance. This is a number-controlled event. Please come only if you are on the attending list. Please check your calendar and make sure you can come before RSVP, so as not to deny someone else who genuinely wishes to come. #2 – Punctuality. We will move out at 8.05am sharp. We are not able to wait for latecomers. #3 – Early Departure. Please inform the Event Host if you need to leave early. #4 – Waitlist. Please note that the waitlist may not be processed in order. We may prioritize spots for participants training for upcoming hikes/ trips. #5 – Weather. In case of severe weather conditions, we will provide an update or adjust the route accordingly. Important Liability Notice: By joining this walk, you acknowledge that you are participating voluntarily and understand the physical risks inherent in this activity. AU is not responsible for any injuries, accidents, or health complications that may occur during the walk. Please ensure you are medically fit and adequately prepared for the demands of the session. Thank you for your understanding! See you there! [https://vt.tiktok.com/ZS9YtwqwB/](https://vt.tiktok.com/ZS9YtwqwB/)
Punggol PCN (East ) to Coastal Walk ...around 7km
Punggol PCN (East ) to Coastal Walk ...around 7km
This time we do a normal flat walk in the afternoon around 7km 1way.....@ Punggol water Park PCN(East) **Programme:-** 8:00am - Meet at MRT ground Level- Exit A 8:10 am - take walk 8:15am-9:30am - Break at Red Bridge; 9:35- 10:35am - walk to Punggol Coast (SIT) canteen 10:40am-11:15am - lunch 11:20am :-End / Go Home **Please bring following.** \- Water \- Money \- Camera\- \- Sun block A cheeful smile for this event Contact Bong Lam - 96 196 902 **For Member only**
Quarry Walk (BTNR edition)
Quarry Walk (BTNR edition)
Take a walk with us to explore 4 **Quarries** (3 wet and 1 dry quarry) around **Bukit Timah Nature Reserve**. For those interested, and if weather permits, we can continue after lunch to explore another 3 quarries. Meeting Point : Beauty World MRT, Exit A, street level Meeting Time : 8:30 am End Point : The Rail Mall Est. End Time : 12:30 pm Est. Distance : 10 km Things to bring: \- Umbrellas \- Sun protection \(e\.g\. sunblock\) \- Water \- Snacks \- Hiking/Walking shoes

Mapping Events This Week

Discover what is happening in the next few days

Load Up! Level Up! Steps Training with Gary!
Load Up! Level Up! Steps Training with Gary!
🥾 **Backpack Endurance Hike – Consistency Steps Training!!!** Route: Hillview MRT EXIT A ➝ Dairy Farm Nature Park ➝ Bukit Timah Summit ➝ 2-3 Staircase Loops ➝ Beauty World Shopping Centre for lunch. **Date: 24th May 2026 (Sun)** **Meeting Time: 8 am** **Meeting point: Hillview MRT Exit A** **Your Leader in Fitness: Gary** Join us for a practical endurance training session designed to build back strength, overall stamina, and backpack carrying efficiency, perfect for those preparing for long-distance hikes and treks. We will tackle a mix of trail and stair climbs to simulate the kind of effort and strain experienced during multi-day hikes. This session focuses on consistency, not speed, ideal for beginners and experienced hikers alike who want to train smart. 🧳 What to Bring: \*Backpack (with at least 5-7kg weight to simulate real conditions) - Minimum 1.5L of water \*Light snacks or energy bars - Towel/small cloth \*Rain gear or poncho (weather dependent) - Proper hiking shoes \*Sunscreen and cap - EZ-Link card / small cash for lunch Note: Train smart. This is not a race. The goal is to develop strength and endurance through consistent effort and mindful pacing. Let’s gear up and get trail-ready! 💪 Bad weather contingency plan: *Waterproof your belongings and bring rain gear (rain cover, jacket, poncho, or umbrella). Please read this #1 - This is a number-controlled event. Please come only if you are on the attending list. #2 - We will move out at 8.05am sharp. We are not able to wait for late comers. #3 - As this is a limited number event, please check your calendar and make sure you can come before you RSVP. Do not change your attendance at the last minute and deny someone else who genuinely wishes to come. ### Important Liability Notice By joining this training, you acknowledge that you are participating voluntarily and understand the physical risks inherent in this activity. AU is not responsible for any injuries, accidents, or health complications that may occur during the training. Please ensure you are medically fit and adequately prepared for the demands of the session.
Steps Training in Nature
Steps Training in Nature
Virtual Skating Weekly Challenge!
Virtual Skating Weekly Challenge!
Hi Everyone, With Covid19 happening, there is still a limited participants for group events of up to 8 pax happening, so this just to keep the virtual skating together going. The Challenge is to skate as much as you can during this pandemic each week. And see how we rank on leaderboard of Strava. The ranking is arranged by most distances skated each week. Do join us through on Strava App below: Leaderboard updates on a weekly basis and resets every week (Mon to Sun) Join us at https://www.strava.com/clubs/freewheelers_sg (Kindly note that with specifically the Strava app, it is unable to cater for Inline skating option, so you will have list your tracking via run or ride for your ranking to show up in leaderboard. And this is the main challenge majority of skaters will be using.) Feel feel to contact Janice on Meetup if you need help with the apps to join us on these virtual skating challenges. You can also ask Janice for link to join a telegram group where impromptu small group skating events are frequently organized if you are looking for skating buddies. Special Note: Heard feedback from some Iphone users that trouble getting apps FOC. All these apps should be free. Please make sure you download the FREE VERSION. And please download the app, before you join via Challenge Links as the Challenge Links lead Iphone users to paid versions I think. Android Phones should be automatic directed to free version. IPHONE DOWNLOAD LINKS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/strava-run-ride-swim/id426826309
Sketches & Stories with Joon
Sketches & Stories with Joon
Join us for a laid-back drawing session with Joon, an artist originally from Korea who lived in New York before making Singapore home. We’ll draw together, but that’s just the starting point. Expect conversations about travel, museums, what it’s like to build a life across different cities, and the friendships that form across cultures. Bring your stories, some paper, a pencil/pen, or just yourself. Can’t draw? That’s fine. Neither can most of us. Beginners very welcome — we’ll keep it simple. Find Joon’s work on Instagram at [@joonartistic](https://www.instagram.com/joonartistic/). 📍 Yugoslavia Cage, KINEX Mall — near Paya Lebar MRT 🆓 Free as always. Just buy a drink or snack from the cafe to support the space.
Recharge & Explore: Guided Mount Faber Walk 🌉
Recharge & Explore: Guided Mount Faber Walk 🌉
Join us for a refreshing guided walk through one of Singapore’s most iconic hilltop destinations! Take in sweeping panoramic views of the city skyline and harbour while enjoying the cool breeze, lush greenery, and energizing outdoor atmosphere. This walk is perfect for anyone looking to stay active during the holiday season, connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts, and enjoy a relaxing escape from the busy city routine. Whether you’re aiming to boost your stamina, meet new people, or simply unwind in nature, this experience is suitable for all fitness levels. 🥾 Event Details Date: Thursday, 24 May 2026 Meeting Time: 2:45 PM (for a sharp 3:00 PM departure) Meeting Point: Telok Blangah MRT Station – Exit A (Street Level) Ending Point: HarbourFront MRT Station 🕒 Kindly arrive on time as the group will depart promptly at 3:00 PM. Latecomers may need to make their own way to catch up with the group. ⚠️ What to Bring / Recommendations ✅ Comfortable walking or sports shoes ✅ Raincoat or umbrella ☔ ✅ Hat/cap and sunblock 🌞 ✅ Water bottle 💧 ✅ Power bank 🔋 ✅ Positive energy and smiles 😄 👟 Walk Information The walk will be conducted at a moderate, brisk pace suitable for most participants. Enjoy the fresh air, scenic surroundings, and festive spirit while exploring the beautiful trails and viewpoints around Mount Faber. 📝 Disclaimer Participants are responsible for their own safety and well-being throughout the activity. Please stay alert, follow the guide’s instructions, and notify the organizer if you feel unwell or wish to stop during the walk. Outdoor walking may involve uneven paths and natural obstacles. By participating, you acknowledge and accept these risks. The organizer will not be held liable for any injuries, accidents, or incidents arising during or after the event.
LSC walk in support of Pack2Treat
LSC walk in support of Pack2Treat
🌿 Adventure Unlimited Live Share Care (LSC) Walk – Pack2Treat Support Event 🌿 Join us for a meaningful morning of connection, care, and gentle movement in support of Pack2Treat. We begin our Live Share Care Walk from **Katong Park MRT (Exit 1)**, stepping out into the soft coastal air where the east coast breeze meets early morning light. The route carries us through a refreshing blend of sea-side calm, park connectors, and river-side paths, where city noise slowly fades into rustling trees, open skies, and the rhythm of shared footsteps. [Pls note TEL late opening at 8.30am.] This is not just a walk — it is a journey through Singapore’s everyday beauty, from coastal neighbourhoods into the heart of our river corridors, ending at Geylang Bahru Market. At Geylang Bahru, we come together for a lunch distribution for elderly residents, especially seniors living alone. This is the heart of our purpose — to share warmth, dignity, and care through food and presence. After the walk, all participants are warmly invited to: * Grab a simple brunch before spend time supporting older hawkers, provision shops, and mom-and-pop stores in the market These small businesses and elderly vendors are part of the same living fabric we are walking for — let’s continue that care with our choices and support. 🕛 Important reminder: Lunch for the elderly will be served by 12 noon sharp, so please enjoy a light brunch beforehand and return with energy and heart for the service. Let’s walk not just for health, but for community. For our seniors. For our hawkers. For each other. 🌱 Walk Distance: 9km - 2 hrs easy Brunch and Food marketing: 1.5 hr Food distribution: 1 hr **PS. As of May all pack2treat schedule will be change so that participants can join us to shop and distribute food. Previously due to timing food distribution is handled by pack2treat volunteer closer to dinner time. Pack2treat's volunteer will assist and guide on food marketing and distribution the day.** Please read this: #1 – Attendance. This is a number-controlled event. Please come only if you are on the attending list. Please check your calendar and make sure you can come before RSVP, so as not to deny someone else who genuinely wishes to come. #2 – Punctuality. We will move out at 8.05am sharp. We are not able to wait for latecomers. #3 – Early Departure. Please inform the Event Host if you need to leave early. #4 – Waitlist. Please note that the waitlist may not be processed in order. We may prioritize spots for participants training for upcoming hikes/ trips. #5 – Weather. In case of severe weather conditions, we will provide an update or adjust the route accordingly. Important Liability Notice: By joining this walk, you acknowledge that you are participating voluntarily and understand the physical risks inherent in this activity. AU is not responsible for any injuries, accidents, or health complications that may occur during the walk. Please ensure you are medically fit and adequately prepared for the demands of the session. Thank you for your understanding! See you there! [https://vt.tiktok.com/ZS9YtwqwB/](https://vt.tiktok.com/ZS9YtwqwB/)

Mapping Events Near You

Connect with your local Mapping community

Franklin Park Conservatory / Columbus Brewing Company
Franklin Park Conservatory / Columbus Brewing Company
**History** The [Franklin Park Conservatory](https://www.fpconservatory.org/)’s roots trace back to 1852 when the Franklin County Agricultural Society purchased 88 acres of land to host the Ohio State Fair. After the fair moved to its permanent home, the city of Columbus transformed the grounds into Franklin Park in 1884. This transition shifted the space from a temporary event site to a dedicated public green space for the growing community. The park became a central hub for outdoor recreation and early civic gatherings in the neighborhood. In 1895, the landmark Victorian-style Palm House opened its doors, drawing heavy inspiration from the Glass Palace of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. This iron and glass structure became an immediate icon, housing exotic plants that residents would otherwise never see in the Midwest. It remains the oldest part of the facility and serves as a primary link to the conservatory’s 19th-century origins. For decades, it stood as a singular testament to grand horticultural architecture in Central Ohio. A major turning point arrived in 1992 when Columbus hosted AmeriFlora '92, an international horticultural exhibition. This massive event prompted a $16 million renovation and expansion, adding significantly more greenhouse space and the Dorothy M. Davis Showhouse. The festival put the conservatory on the international map and fundamentally changed its scale and ambition. Following the event, the facility transitioned from a city-run park to a private, non-profit organization. In 2003, the conservatory’s identity was further defined through a long-term partnership with world-renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly. After a successful exhibition, the Friends of the Conservatory purchased most of the glass installations, creating the largest permanent collection of Chihuly’s work in a botanical setting. These vibrant glass sculptures are now woven throughout the biomes, blending art with nature. This addition helped cement the conservatory as a premier cultural destination rather than just a botanical garden. Recent years have seen the site expand beyond the glass walls to emphasize community engagement and outdoor education. The 2018 opening of the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden added two acres of interactive landscape designed for hands-on learning. The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Community Garden Campus also provides local residents with space to grow their own food and learn sustainable practices. Today, the conservatory balances its historic Victorian charm with modern commitments to local ecology and the Columbus community. **Maps of the Conservatory** Here is the [main map](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/franklin-park-zones-scaled.jpg) of the Conservatory grounds. Here's a [map of the areas](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/ConstructionMap-2026.jpg) in which the Conservatory has ongoing construction (see below). **Summary** For this event, we'll explore Columbus's highly-rated and very popular Conservatory. As mentioned above, the Conservatory is doing renovations on parts of the facility. These renovations are scheduled to be ongoing until the Fall of next year. Basically, no matter when you go to the Conservatory over the next 18 months, you're going to see some metaphorical orange barrels. So let's just go now. **Tickets and pricing** On the first Sunday of every month, the Conservatory is free for residents of Franklin County and the city of Columbus. You must bring an ID to receive this discount. (Yes, they do check.) Otherwise, tickets are $25.20. Members of the Columbus Zoo (of which I am one) do get a discount on tickets, though I have never actually bought a ticket to the Conservatory (I've always gone on free days). I believe the discount is $4. Parking is always free. If you have additional questions about pricing or whether and for what you qualify, you can reach the Conservatory at 614-715-8000. **Where we'll meet** We will meet just outside the main entrance. I guarantee there's going to be a line. The Conservatory is always popular on free days, and especially in nice weather. **Your GPS is stupid!** Be careful simply typing "Franklin Park Conservatory" in your GPS and going where it tells you. The only way to access the parking lot to the Conservatory is off of Broad Street. Unfortunately, since Google Maps is unable to find its way out of a wet paper bag, it has a tendency to want to take people to a mythical, non-existent Conservatory entrance on Nelson Road. If your GPS does this, just drive to the north side of the Conservatory along Broad Street. Your GPS should then redirect you to the main Conservatory entrance. If your GPS doesn't, then throw your phone away\* and look for the big Conservatory sign on the south side of Broad Street between Nelson Road and Franklin Park West. You also should be able to use the map pin I've provided, below, and it should properly direct you to where you need to drive. \* Don't really do this. **After the event** After stopping to smell the roses, for those that are interested, we'll head to the nearby [Columbus Brewing Company Beer Hall](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/) for [drinks](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#draft-list) and [lunch](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#food-menu). The Beer Hall's actual address is [200 Kelton Ave, Columbus, OH 43205](https://www.google.com/maps/place/200+Kelton+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43205/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x883889a94ac4acad:0xadb2e60240dbc38b?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111) (it's literally just on the south side of the Conservatory). Be sure this is where your GPS is taking you when you use it, as the Brewing Company has a taproom on Harrison Avenue that is *not* what you want for this event. We should be at the Beer Hall by 1 if you can't make the Conservatory and just want to join us for drinks.
Bike Ride - Pickerington Ponds to Three Creeks
Bike Ride - Pickerington Ponds to Three Creeks
**Weather permitting**, we’ll take a casual ride from Pickerington Ponds (Glacier Knoll) to Three Creeks and back. Distance is **18–25 miles**, depending on where we turn around and whether we add a side loop. Pace is around **12 mph**, but this is a fun, no‑drop ride — we can slow down as needed. Here’s the **map** showing Glacier Knoll (bike), Confluence Park (flag), and BrewDog: [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit..](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit..). Text or call Scott at **614‑975‑4458** if you’re coming.
Trails & Ales! Blendon Woods Metro Park / Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery
Trails & Ales! Blendon Woods Metro Park / Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery
**History** The history of [Blendon Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blendon-woods/) began long before its 1951 opening, rooted in a landscape of rugged ridges and deep ravines that made the land unsuitable for traditional farming. In 1945, a report proposing a metropolitan park system for Franklin County specifically highlighted these cliffs of Bedford Shale as some of the "wildest land in the vicinity". Following this recommendation, the recently formed park district purchased the first 229 acres in early 1949. Because the terrain was so uneven, developers had to cut a mile-and-a-half-long roadway through dense woods just to bring in heavy equipment. This initial preservation effort ensured that the mature second-growth hardwood forests remained largely untouched by the urban expansion spreading toward Westerville. Opening day arrived on Labor Day, September 3, 1951, marking Blendon Woods as the second park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The final push to open was a frantic race; the State Highway Department only finished the primary gravel access road four days before the gates opened. Early staff members, consisting of just four full-time employees, had to hand-dig pit toilets and learn construction skills on the fly to build the first picnic shelters. Despite the dusty conditions and limited facilities, the park was an immediate success, drawing massive crowds from across Central Ohio. By the end of the 1950s, annual visitation had already climbed to over 190,000 people. As the surrounding suburbs grew in the 1960s, the park faced severe overcrowding that threatened its natural habitats. In response, Franklin County voters passed the first Metro Parks levy in 1960, providing the funds necessary for a decade of steady expansion. During this era, the park nearly doubled in size, growing from 264 acres to over 570 acres by 1968. Planners also addressed a critical water shortage by collaborating with the U.S. Soil and Conservation Service to build a lake in 1964. This body of water originally served as a temporary reservoir before its role shifted toward conservation and wildlife support. The 1970s marked a transition toward the specialized wildlife and educational focus for which the park is known today. In 1971, the Walden Waterfowl Refuge was established around the 11-acre Thoreau Lake, creating a sanctuary that remains restricted to provide a quiet habitat for migratory birds. A formal nature center was also developed during this period, expanding on the guided Sunday walks that had been a park staple since the early 1950s. The park’s famous "Monarch Mansion" also became a prominent fixture, starting a long tradition of raising and releasing thousands of monarch butterflies each September. These initiatives cemented the park’s reputation as a premier destination for birders and nature enthusiasts. In more recent decades, Blendon Woods has continued to modernize while maintaining its wilderness character. The 10-acre Natural Play Area was added in 2017, encouraging kids to explore the ravines and woods off-trail. This was followed by the opening of a $1.5 million inclusive playground in April 2025, designed to accommodate children of all physical abilities. The nature center also underwent major renovations to include immersive, three-dimensional exhibits and a new butterfly house. Today, the park encompasses 653 acres, preserving a unique geologic and biological corridor amidst the bustling Westerville and Northeast Columbus area. **Map of the Park** Here is a map of [Blendon Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/BLN_map_Inclusive-Playground-and-Butterfly-Trail_May-2025_1980px.png). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Lake View, Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook, Brookside, and Sugarbush Trails. This sounds like a lot, but it will really be only a little over five miles. Blendon Woods has a few hills here and there, but it's not one of the more strenuous metro parks. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet just in front of the Nature Center. This is about a mile into the park from the main entrance. You have to go past the Ranger Station and the Shadblow Reservable Area to get to it, so don't stop too early at the Ranger Station and get it confused with the Nature Center. **After the Hike** Afterward, we will head over to [Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/) at Easton for [drinks](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/#dinner-menu) and [food](https://forbiddenroot.com/wp-content/uploads/Cbus-Food.pdf). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks. The brewery's actual address is [4080 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4080+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88388a86d10b6619:0x4d42b470a5cf11d3?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111); however, I recommend pointing your GPS to the [Worth Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Worth+Garage/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388b4df6082825:0x17582f0eccd9dda1!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11rzfvvv8b?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) across the street. Parking in this garage is free as long as you're not on the first floor, and it is literally right next to the brewery.
Bike Ride - Pickerington Ponds to Three Creeks to Three Creeks
Bike Ride - Pickerington Ponds to Three Creeks to Three Creeks
**Weather permitting**, we’ll take a casual ride from Pickerington Ponds (Glacier Knoll) to Three Creeks and back. Distance is **18–25 miles**, depending on where we turn around and whether we add a side loop. Pace is around **12 mph**, but this is a fun, no‑drop ride — we can slow down as needed. Here’s the **map** showing Glacier Knoll (bike), Confluence Park (flag), and BrewDog: [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit..](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit..). Text or call Scott at **614‑975‑4458** if you’re coming.
Columbus Museum of Art, Free Admission Sundays
Columbus Museum of Art, Free Admission Sundays
Let’s meet and wander the galleries! General admission on Sundays is free.