Wake Surfing

English (Español abajo⬇️)🏐 My name is Bryan and I am here to coach and help everyone reach the next level and improve your beachvolleyball skills while having fun at the same time ☺️. 👇🏽 Join the group 👇🏽 https://chat.whatsapp.com/DyXrqWKqJzp1B4R5drsLaz?mode=gi_t 📊 The level: We will train at the intermediate 1.5-2 levels, so several months of training are required to consistently control the ball at an Intermediate-High Intermediate Level. You should reliably be able to touch the ball 3 times and control where you want the ball to go on attacks. 🪙 The cost : The general rate for a class per person is 10€. The languages spoken in the class are English, German, and Spanish. ⏳📏 The duration and structure: Every class lasts for 90 minutes, and is broken up into three main parts. 1\. Warm up\. 2\. Technique drills\. 3\. Fun play/games to put theory into practice\. \*Note that there might be a chance to play longer if I don't have another class or free play with one of my groups. The session will also include music for a more fun atmosphere. 🎶🥁 🤔💭 Do I need to attend every time? You should only attend the class when you would like to and there is no obligation. However if you commit to a session, we expect you to be there. 🥤🧴What do I need to bring to the training? Please come dressed in sports clothes, bring plenty of water, sunglasses, sunblock, and a towel for our sessions. Please be on time, and bring adequate sport clothing and water. Cancelations are only accepted with 24 hours in advance. Español 🏐 Me llamo Bryan y estoy aquí para entrenar y ayudar a todos a alcanzar el siguiente nivel y mejorar sus habilidades de vóley playa mientras se divierten ☺️. 👇🏽 Únete al Grupo 👇🏽 https://chat.whatsapp.com/DyXrqWKqJzp1B4R5drsLaz?mode=gi_t 📊 Nivel: Entrenaremos en el nivel intermedio 1.5-2, por lo que se requieren varios meses de entrenamiento para controlar el balón de forma consistente en un nivel intermedio-alto. Deberías poder tocar el balón tres veces con fiabilidad y controlar su dirección en los ataques. 🪙 Precio: La tarifa general de una clase por persona es de 10€. Los idiomas que se hablan en la clase son inglés, alemán y español. ⏳📏 Duración y estructura: Cada clase tiene una duración de 90 minutos y se divide en tres partes principales: 1\. Calentamiento\. 2\. Ejercicios técnicos\. 3\. Juegos divertidos para poner en práctica la teoría\. \*Ten en cuenta que podría haber una oportunidad de jugar más tiempo si no tengo otra clase o juego libre con uno de mis grupos. La sesión también incluirá música para un ambiente más divertido. 🎶🥁 🤔💭 ¿Tengo que asistir siempre? Solo debes asistir a la clase cuando quieras y no hay obligación. Sin embargo, si te comprometes a asistir a una sesión, esperamos que estés presente. 🥤🧴¿Qué necesito traer al entrenamiento? Por favor, ven con ropa deportiva, trae abundante agua, gafas de sol, protector solar y una toalla para nuestras sesiones. Por favor, sé puntual y trae ropa deportiva adecuada y agua. Solo se aceptan cancelaciones con 24 horas de antelación.

Para tod@s los principiantes que queréis aprender a jugar beach voley, este es su evento. Enseñaremos paso a paso como se juega, la técnica, las posiciones en el campo y más que todo nos divertiremos. Espero veros pronto. For all the beginners who want to learn to play beach volleyball, this is your event. We will teach step by step how to play, the technique, the positions on the field and most of all we will have fun. I hope to see you soon.

Would you like to feel more confident on the dance floor without overthinking it? 💃🕺 Join us for a first dance class where you’ll learn basic steps to help you move with ease at any party. We’ll explore different Latin rhythms in a practical and fun way if you’re just starting or simply want to loosen up without pressure! This is a dynamic, welcoming space full of good energy, where the goal is to enjoy yourself, build confidence, and connect with the music (and other people) 🥳 Just come as you are and let yourself flow 🎶 📍Underground level of the Sant Antoni Market. As soon as you go downstairs, right next to Lidl and VivaGym. ¿Te gustaría sentirte más seguro/a en la pista de baile sin complicarte demasiado? 💃🕺 Te invitamos a una primera clase de baile donde aprenderás pasos básicos para defenderte con estilo en cualquier fiesta. Exploraremos distintos ritmos latinos de forma práctica y divertida, ideal si estás empezando o quieres soltar el cuerpo sin presión! Será un espacio dinámico, cercano y lleno de buena energía, donde lo importante es disfrutar, ganar confianza y conectar con la música (y con otras personas)🥳 Ven tal como eres y déjate llevar 🎶 📍Nivel subterráneo del Mercado de Sant Antoni. En cuanto bajas por las escaleras, justo al lado de Lidl y VivaGym.

In this 90-minute Vinyasa Yoga and Yoga Nidra session, you'll begin with a dynamic and fluid Vinyasa flow, designed to synchronize breath with movement. This phase will focus on building strength, flexibility, and balance while encouraging mindfulness in each posture. The sequences will gradually transition from energizing to more grounding, preparing the body and mind for deep relaxation. In the last 30minutes of the session I will guide you into a calming Yoga Nidra practice. Lying down in savasana, you’ll be led through a guided practice that invites deep rest, conscious relaxation, and inner awareness. This practice is designed to release physical tension, quiet the mind, and rejuvenate your entire being, leaving you feeling refreshed, centered, and deeply relaxed. 🙏 En esta sesión de 90 minutos de Vinyasa Yoga y Yoga Nidra, comenzarás con un flujo dinámico y fluido de Vinyasa, diseñado para sincronizar la respiración con el movimiento. Esta fase se enfocará en desarrollar fuerza, flexibilidad y equilibrio, al mismo tiempo que fomenta la atención plena en cada postura. Las secuencias irán transicionando gradualmente de energizantes a más estabilizadoras, preparando el cuerpo y la mente para una relajación profunda. En los últimos 30 minutos de la sesión, te guiaré en una práctica calmante de Yoga Nidra. Acostado en savasana, serás conducido a través de una práctica guiada que invita al descanso profundo, la relajación consciente y la conciencia interior. Esta práctica está diseñada para liberar la tensión física, aquietar la mente y rejuvenecer todo tu ser, dejándote con una sensación de frescura, equilibrio y profunda relajación. ❤️YOGA ALL LEVELS - TODOS LOS NIVELES! Disponibles en español y en inglés. (Tenemos esterillas! Pero siempre es mejor practicar en la de uno mismo 😊) Gracias •• Namaste ANAŸS SŸANA••YOGA Instagram @syanayoga EN: Available in Spanish and English. (We have mats, but i always recommend to practice on you own mat 😊) 1st CLASS: donation based Single class: 18€ •One month bonus -5 classes 70€ -Unlimited 80€ •Two months bonus -10 classes 130€ -2 months unlimited 150€ •Three months bonus -20 classes 240€ -3 months unlimited 200€ Thanks •• Namaste ANAŸS SŸANA••YOGA Instagram @syanayoga

​SHKUL SPORT BARCELONA - PADEL ​Unite all expats, guests and locals in Barcelona ​Padel is the fastest growing game in the world in the rocket sports. To get to know other exparts playing padel is a good way to have fun. ​The game lasts 1.5 hours. There are 4 people in the team. ​-> for beginners: basic master class for beginners, explanation of the rules, selection of partners for the game, rent of court, racket, balls ​-> for those who continue: formation of a group (we find partners for the game), rent of court, racket, balls ​ Rules: 1. ​Cancellation before 24 hours the game - non-refundable. 2. ​The validity period of a subscription for 4 games is 2 months from the date of payment. Reservation in MeetUp. After I send all information about event - in WhatsApp chat. You can participate just after confirmation. PAYMENT IS ONLY REQUIRED AFTER CONFIRMING THAT THE SPOT IS RESERVED FOR YOU. THERE IS NO NEED TO PAY WITHOUT A RESERVATION. Payment: https://tips.profee.com/shkulsportclub/event/5f5ec31a11b36be462e1f460

Enjoy one of the best city experiences in Barcelona. With this experience you will be able to see the Barcelona sunset from the sea and have an unforgettable moment with the people who are important to you. Free drinks on board included. (price per person 50€)

Aerial yoga Dinamico a dynamic and uplifting experience that makes you feel light, strong, and energized from the very first class — perfect for anyone looking to try something fun and different! And after flying in the hammock, you’re welcome to stay, relax, and enjoy a soothing cup of tea with the group. Aero Yoga Dinámico una experiencia dinámica y emocionante que te hará sentir ligero, fuerte y lleno de energía desde la primera clase — ¡ideal para quienes quieren probar algo diferente y divertido! Y después de volar en la hamaca, te invitamos a quedarte a disfrutar de un té relajante, perfecto para compartir y conectar con el grupo. \*Only with reservation [Envianos un mensaje en Whats App :)](https://wa.me/message/6TUN57VE6T5HO1)

🌅🏄‍♂️ SUNRISE SUP EXPERIENCE – BARCELONA 🏄‍♀️🌅 📞 CONTACT: +34 658 450 228 ✨ First official SUP (paddle surf) session 🌊 + 🌅 = the perfect plan 📅 Sunday, 4 May ⏰ 06:15 AM (be on time!) 🌅 Sunrise: 06:50 AM 📍 Meeting point: Manihi Escola de Surf 🔗 https://www.manihisurfschool.com/ 👉 We’ll meet here, pick up the boards, and go into the water with the instructor 💸 20€ per person 💳 Reservation required (payment link sent in private to secure your spot) ⏳ Duration: 1 hour ⸻ 🏄‍♂️ Included: ✔️ SUP board ✔️ Instructor ✔️ Facilities access ✔️ Wetsuit (optional) ⸻ 🎒 What to bring: • Swimsuit • Flip-flops • Towel ⸻ 🌊✨ What to expect: Calm water Total silence Sunrise in front of you Barcelona waking up A unique, relaxing but energizing experience 🔥 ⸻ 📩 Limited spots – DM to join ℹ️ For info & booking: message privately

¡Aloha surfer! Nuestras **Surfskate Sessions** te ofrecemos el entrenamiento semanal perfecto para aprender los movimientos necesarios para la mejora y evolución de tu surf. Nuestras **Weekend Sessions** se celebran los **sábados** y **domingos** a las **12.00**. Es una clase en grupo con una duración de 1h30' y los **precios** son: · 2 alumnos: 25€. · 3 o 4 alumnos: 20€. · 5 o más alumnos: 15€. \* Precio por persona. **Incluye**: monitor, surfskate, casco y espacio para dejar tus objetos personales. Además todas las clases estan pensadas para todas las edades (a partir de 8 años) y niveles. Los/las asistentes de menos de 18 años debéis venir acompañados de un tutor mayor de edad. Apúntate a uno de nuestros cursos semanales para estar súper ready para los días de olas ;) ¡Recuerda que para **confirmar tu plaza debes enviarnos un whatsapp al [622 37 87 55](https://wa.me/message/IYUPVZ3MONBMP1)**!

**SURFSKATE (BEGINNER - INTERMEDIATE)** Ride, flow and have fun with [Almas Libres](https://almas-libres.org). Join our weekly surfskate session, perfect for **beginners and intermediate** skaters, with our all-female coaching team to guide you. In collaboration with [Yow](https://yowsurf.com). **WHEN** Every Thursday **TIME** 19:30-20:30 **LOCATION** W-Hotel **CONTRIBUTION** 5€ **INCLUDED** • All-female coaching team • All equipment provided • Equipment (surfskate and protection) **must** be requested when signing up **LANGUAGES** Catalan • Spanish • English

PLEASE BE AWARE: this group is exclusively for open water swimming in the sea. Before joining any swim, you MUST read and understand all the points below. Safety and personal responsibility are our priorities. 1. RESPONSIBILITY: By joining, you acknowledge that you swim entirely AT YOUR OWN RISK. Each participant is solely RESPONSIBLE for their own safety and wellbeing. This is an informal group of amateur sea swimmers — there is no lifeguard, coach, or medical assistance provided. 2. DISTANCE & CONDITIONS: We usually swim 200–400 metres away from the shore, in deep water. To join, you must already know how to swim confidently — being used to swimming regularly in a pool and able to cover at least 1000 metres. This is not a swimming school. Remember: you swim entirely AT YOUR OWN RISK. The route goes parallel to the beach, about 600m forth and back (approx. 1200 meters in total). Slower swimmers will always be accompanied by an experienced member of the group, and no one will be left alone. If at any time you feel unwell, dizzy, tired, or decide to leave the water, you MUST inform someone from the group before exiting. For safety reasons, never leave the water alone or without having told another swimmer. 3. SWIM BUOY: Most of us use a SWIM BUOY, which increases visibility and allows us to keep small essentials dry while swimming. For safety reasons, newcomers should always swim with a buoy. If you don’t have one, please mention it in the comments so that one of the regular members may bring an extra buoy if available (subject to availability). 4. MEETING TIME: The meeting time varies throughout the year depending on sunrise. We usually gather a bit earlier to enter the water and watch the sunrise from the sea. PLEASE, BE PUNCTUAL so the group is not delayed. 5. MEETING POINT: We meet at the parking area right in front of “McDonald’s”, at the same level as the Red Cross building (Passeig Marítim de la Nova Icària, 38, 08005 Barcelona, near the restaurant L’Scamarla). For safety reasons, if you arrive late, do not enter the water alone. 6. BELONGINGS: There are no lockers available. Sometimes one of us comes by car and can keep a few belongings, but this is entirely at your own risk. The car owners do NOT take any responsibility in case the vehicle is broken into and items are stolen. We recommend not bringing valuables — only the absolutely necessary. If you must bring important items, the safest option is to carry them in a swim buoy. 7. EQUIPMENT: We suggest bringing GOOGLES, a SWIMMING CAP, and — if you have one — a neoprene wetsuit (although it’s also possible to swim without). 8. JELLYFISH: Remember that we are swimming in their home. Encounters are possible at any time of the year. Always stay alert, and if you see jellyfish, inform the rest of the group immediately so everyone can avoid them. --- 🌅 Welcome Sunrisers. We look forward to sharing with you the beginning of a new wonderful day, from the waters of Barcelona. 🌊

Come and Paddleboard with us on Saturday afternoon in Barceloneta with the friendly Supaddict school.. ☀️🌊 Paddleboard hire + guided lesson + insurance €30 euros per person. Info in the whatsapp group: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/HuMcA2pZh5L3FEd1hJXMyV?mode=wwt](https://chat.whatsapp.com/HuMcA2pZh5L3FEd1hJXMyV?mode=wwt) We'll head for drinks after at Be Gay Chiringuito, Mar bella beach. 🏳️‍🌈🧡. Ven a hacer paddle surf con nosotros el sabado por la tarde en la Barceloneta con la escuela amigable Supaddict. ☀️🌊 Alquiler de paddle + clase guiada + seguro: 30 euros por persona. más info en el grupo de WhatsApp: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/HuMcA2pZh5L3FEd1hJXMyV?mode=wwt](https://chat.whatsapp.com/HuMcA2pZh5L3FEd1hJXMyV?mode=wwt) Después iremos a tomar algo en Be Gay Cbiringuito, en la playa de mar bella. 🏳️‍🌈🧡

**FLOW STATE MEETS FREEDOM PARTY.** **JOIN THE EVENT HERE: https://luma.com/calendar/manage/cal-7syF5p6kFqFN9yn** This isn’t your average yoga class. It’s the kind of session that makes you forget where your mat ends and the music begins. Welcome to **DEEP HOUSE YOGA**, a free weekly community vibe where golden hour, deep beats, and full-body flow collide. Think: sunsets, melodic house, dynamic movement, laughs and a beautiful community. You’ll move, you’ll breathe, you’ll drop in, and somewhere between the beat drops and your breath, you’ll remember what it feels like to be fully *here* Grounded, connected, rooted in a siltent truth that needed to come back to the surface. Like a deep remembering of **who tf you are.** This isn’t about being perfect or zen, it’s about getting out of your head, into your body, and letting go of all the noise of the week. ✨ **Bring:** * Your mat (or towel, we don’t judge) * Comfy clothes * Water * Your friends * And an open vibe Come for the beats + movement Stay for the sunsets, the laughs, and the kind of people you actually want to hang out with. Led by **Saz Hartland**, Vinyasa + Yin teacher of 9+ years, community builder in Dubai, Prague & Japan, now creating a Deep House Yoga crew for the modern-day yogi who craves *connection, flow, and freedom (and fun)* Let’s flow & forget the world for a bit 🔥 **JOIN THE EVENT HERE: https://luma.com/ob7treyz**

It’s time to take control of your mental health. How do you get rid of stress, anxiety and uncertainty? These emotions are buried deep in your reactive mind. Find out what the reactive mind is, and in the process find yourself. Have you ever suffered from a traumatic experience, a deep loss or been through a painful breakup? Has your ability to communicate suffered as a result? And after that, even though you "moved on" did you find that things were never quite the same? Have you ever looked at childhood photos, or reminisced your early life and wondered where that happiness and spark went? Are your emotions out of your own control? Have you ever felt, even if you aren’t aware of it, that possibly you are getting in your own way of your happiness and success? How does this affect your self-confidence? Find out what is at the root of all stress, anxiety, depression and self-doubt. Find out how and why you hold yourself back from achieving your goals and having the life you have dreamed of. As soon as you learn what is at the root of these unwanted conditions, you’ll see it is something you can DO something about. You will not be labeled or categorized at this MeetUp.

**🪷 Speed Dating Live on Zoom for Singles near Surrey** You get to cycle through rapid one-on-one Zoom dates with Surrey singles matched by age and personality, while the host manages transitions so you can focus on the person in front of you. As part of the process, a two-minute quiz captures your personality — those details are used to identify compatible Surrey singles for your rounds, so the format works harder than any dating app. Once it is wrapped up, we send mutual match results — with nothing shared unless both parties agreed — and you are in control of what happens next. **Your age group, your link:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=537.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Surrey&groupurlname=the-collective-for-intentional-social-growth&ar=18-32&face_v=4.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=537.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Surrey&groupurlname=the-collective-for-intentional-social-growth&ar=30-46&face_v=4.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=537.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Surrey&groupurlname=the-collective-for-intentional-social-growth&ar=40-58&face_v=4.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=537.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Surrey&groupurlname=the-collective-for-intentional-social-growth&ar=55+&face_v=4.0) **⚠️ Required step:** This rsvp does not equal a reserved seat, so select your age range link above, fill in the registration, and answer the personality quiz — capacity is intentionally small so get in early, and your place is confirmed only once you have done both. --- **Your evening, step by step** 1. **Claim your spot** – by tapping the link for your age group, then finish the compatibility quiz, as the quiz plus registration is what counts. 2. **Jump on Zoom** – by clicking the Zoom link at the event start time, zero setup is required — just open the link, and once you are in the host handles the rest entirely. 3. **Have your dates** – short one-on-one rounds with personality-matched Surrey locals in your group, as the host signals each transition calmly and clearly, and the people in your rounds were sorted specifically for you. 4. **Find your matches** – mutual matches are sent to you privately after the event ends, since non-mutual choices are never shared with either party, and once you have it you decide how and when to connect. **Who shows up:** - Members from Surrey bored of dating apps that go nowhere and want to meet real locals without the faff. - First-timers from around Surrey looking beyond the app treadmill that goes in circles and are serious about meeting someone. - Individuals across Surrey getting away from apps that waste evenings for no return and want to meet real locals without the faff. - Residents from around Surrey looking beyond swiping with nothing to show for it and prefer meeting people in person first. - Locals calling Surrey home getting away from dating apps that go nowhere and are ready for a genuine first impression. **About the Event** - **Format:** Dedicated and hosted via Zoom with back-to-back private rounds per pair, sorted by personality quiz and age for every round. - **Where:** At-home — on any internet-connected device, no special equipment — just a device with a camera and internet, and couch desk or spare room are all equally valid spots. - **Host:** A supportive host guides every round from start to finish, so the evening runs without a hitch — not a single logistical thing is left for you to manage. - **Vibe:** Comfortable video rounds with Surrey singles who are here for the same reason you are, and the host keeps everything comfortable throughout. - **Duration:** Usually sixty to ninety minutes from round one onwards, though times can vary slightly. ⭐ *"Better than expected — way better than anything I have tried before"* – Surrey local, first event 💡 **Worth knowing:** put your phone on silent before joining, and the host takes care of everything else from there, since small prep leads to a noticeably better experience. --- ✨ Done with apps — start here — grab your place above before it goes and we sort the rest this time. See you in the first round. 💕 ✨

**🎯 Short Rounds Genuine People for Surrey People Done with Apps** Throughout the event, you'll spend your time in focused short video rounds with Surrey locals paired by quiz results and age range, with a dedicated host managing each round. During sign-up, you complete a brief compatibility form — we use those answers to pair you intelligently with Surrey locals, so every person you meet has been matched to you on purpose. After all the rounds, match notifications go to both parties — but only if the feeling was mutual — and you are in control of what happens next. **Pick your age range and grab a spot:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=537.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Surrey&groupurlname=bloom-with-genuine-peers-through-events&ar=18-32&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=537.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Surrey&groupurlname=bloom-with-genuine-peers-through-events&ar=30-46&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=537.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Surrey&groupurlname=bloom-with-genuine-peers-through-events&ar=40-58&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=537.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Surrey&groupurlname=bloom-with-genuine-peers-through-events&ar=55+&face_v=3.0) **⚠️ Spot not held yet:** Rsvping on meetup does not confirm your spot at the event, so tap your age group link above, register fully, and complete the personality matching quiz — numbers are intentionally limited so register early, and your spot is held only when both steps are done. --- **Perfect for:** - Women and men from Surrey ready to move past digital dating that never converts to anything real and prefer meeting people in person first. - Members based in Surrey who no longer want swiping left and right with no results and value real conversation over curated profiles. - Returners locally in Surrey who are tired of app fatigue and empty match queues and want to talk to real people tonight. - Returners near Surrey who have given up on profiles that never convert to actual dates and prefer structure over ambiguity. **What to Know** - **Format:** Live on a live video platform featuring private video date rounds, compatibility-matched within your age range. - **Where:** No travel required — on any internet-connected device, camera mic and Wi-Fi — that is the full tech list, and you can pick whatever quiet spot works for you. - **Host:** An attentive host keeps everything on track and stress-free throughout, so the focus stays entirely on the people you are meeting — from first round to final result it is all managed for you. - **Vibe:** Easy-going personal date rounds with Surrey singles who are here for the same reason you are, and first-timers always leave surprised by how natural it felt. - **Duration:** Around one to one-and-a-half hours from opening to close, and most people say it flies by. **The breakdown** 1. **Confirm your place** – through the age-specific link above, then fill in the personality matching questionnaire, as completing both steps locks in your place. 2. **Join the session** – by clicking the Zoom invite at the event time, no download is needed since it works in any browser, and a live host walks you through it from there. 3. **Connect** – focused private rounds with Surrey people matched to you by age and quiz, with everything paced by a host so nothing drags, as every round is with someone selected for you by the quiz. 4. **Collect your mutual matches** – mutual selections are shared privately once the evening wraps, with unmatched selections never disclosed to anyone, and you follow up at your own speed from there. ⭐ *"Better than every app I have tried combined — better than every app I have tried"* – Surrey single --- ✨ The best conversations start somewhere — select your bracket and register and the evening takes care of itself in this round. The evening starts the moment you register. 🥰 ✨

**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.