Weekend Road Trips

**Explore the scenic Humber River in Toronto with our Kayak, Canoe, and stand-up paddle board 2-hour rentals during the week!** Use the following link to book your spot:[ ](https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/kayak-canoe-sup-rentals/)**[https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/kayak-canoe-sup-rentals/](https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/kayak-canoe-sup-rentals/)**[ ](https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/kayak-canoe-sup-rentals/) The calm meandering Humber River is one of Toronto’s hidden gems! Home to a huge variety of wildlife, including Beaver, Blue Heron, Deer and much more, you’ll feel like you’ve left the city behind! *Events are subject to weather and other factors out of our control. If we must cancel or delay an event we will those booked on the [torontoadventures.ca](http://torontoadventures.ca/) website know as soon as possible.* **Pricing (per 2-hour rental), Payable online through:** [https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/kayak-canoe-sup-rentals/](https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/kayak-canoe-sup-rentals/) Single Kayak (seats 1 person) : $40 +taxes Tandem Kayak (seats 2 people) : $70 +taxes Regular Canoe (seats 2 people) : $60 +taxes Large Canoe (seats 3 people) : $70 +taxes Stand-up Paddle Board ( 1 person): $40 +taxes **Included:** * Boat(s), Paddle(s), PFD(s)/ “Life Jacket(s)”, & Coast Guard Safety Kit. * Brief orientation covering paddling safety, Toronto Adventures’ rules, and the Humber River paddling route * Our friendly staff to help you launch your boat(s) and/or boards. * SUP Leash (For Paddle Board Rentals Only) **What to bring?** * Dress for the weather! * Wear closed-toe athletic footwear you don’t mind getting wet & muddy (shoes not required on SUPs). * Sunscreen, sunglasses & hats, are all recommended for sunny days. * A water bottle. * Government Issued Photo ID. **Important Information** Anyone under the age of 18 must have a Parent/Guardian/Adult accompany them all the times on the water. Online Adult Waivers are available through confirmation emails. For minors, waivers will need to be signed in person on location. There must be an Adult to Child ratio of 1:4 in the children are under 12 years of age. From ages 12-18 we require a 1:5 adult to youth ratio. We have lifejackets starting at 30 pounds and are fully adjustable. * Paddlers must be comfortable treading water while wearing a PFD and reaching a shoreline (minimum 20 metres to shore). * Late Fees Returning Boat(s)/Equipment – $20/15 minutes per boat. **[Google Link Directions](https://torontoadventures.ca/directions/#humberriverlocation)** **[Cancellation Policy](https://torontoadventures.ca/faq/#cancellation)** We hope to see you out on the water!

Join us for our new spring series for 2026 - BOARDGAME FRIDAY! This is a great place to meet new people, make new friends and play some fun games. Come with a group or by yourself! There will be games like Catan, Avalon, Ticket to Ride, Uno, Monopoly, Cards Against Humanity and more! **The restaurant, Aifam, will be giving out a free alcoholic drink of your choice (Wine or Beer) with the purchase of each sandwich!** Address: 102 Harbord St, Toronto, ON M5S 1G6 **This event has an entry fee of $15 to be paid via cash or e-transfer. If you purchase any food at the venue the entry fee reduces to $12.5!** **Looking forward to hosting this!**

**Looking for a more intentional way to meet someone—without giving up your Friday night (long weekend) plans?** East Asian–focused mixer to start, then opens to all. Celebrate Asian Heritage Month + long weekend with a live local band to end the night. **When:** Friday\, May 15\, 2026 \| 7:30pm – 11:00pm **Where:** Tenjin Karaoke Bar **Tickets: [https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/toronto-dating-hub-asian-heritage-month-singles-mixer-live-music-night-tickets-1988262089432?aff=meetup](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/toronto-dating-hub-asian-heritage-month-singles-mixer-live-music-night-tickets-1988262089432?aff=meetup)** **Rsvp on meetup is not a ticket** 🕖 **How the Night Flows** **7:30PM – 8:30PM \| East Asian Early Access Singles Hour *(Curated Window)*** * Designed for East & Southeast Asian singles seeking a more intentional and culturally familiar space to connect * “East & Southeast Asian” would generally refer to Chinese, Korean, Japanese, Taiwanese, Vietnamese, Filipino, Thai, Indonesian, Malaysian, Singaporean, etc. * Quiet, conversation-first socializing before the room expands **8:30PM – 11PM \| Signature Singles Mixer \(Professionals ages 28\-45\)** * Our typical open format mixer for likeminded professionals ages 28-45 - all ethnicities/cultures are welcome * Low pressure, unstructured mingling **9:30PM – Late \| Live Music Night \(Open to Public\)** * Live band + DJ: BitterXBroke * Guests from mixer + general public combine into nightlife setting

Hogtown Hash House Harriers (HH3) is a Toronto social running/walking and beer drinking group, with events happening every other Saturday, plus one Thursday and one Friday per month. We start at different locations across the city, run or walk together, and typically end at a local pub where we continue to socialize. Expect plenty of laughs, songs, quirky traditions, and a beer stop or two along the way. New members and non-beer drinkers are always welcome! HH3’s Friday event (A.K.A. ‘The Hogans’) is traditionally our shortest and slowest trail with the most beer stops! Meet and greet at 7pm; head out around 7:30pm. Date / Time: Friday May 15 @ 7pm Start location: Christie Pits Pub, 814 Bloor Street W. Nearest TTC stop: Christie station, subway line 2 Cost: $15 for drinkers, $2 for non-drinkers, paid at start of trail. Note: Most of our regular members do not use Meetup, so you can expect to meet more people than those who RSVPd here

**🌿 Cottage Escape: Canoe, Hike & Recharge (3–7 Days)** **Location:** Bonnechere Provincial Park. [https://www.ontarioparks.ca/park/bonnechere/camping](https://www.ontarioparks.ca/park/bonnechere/camping) **Dates:** May 16 – May 23 (join for 3 days or the full 7—your choice) *** **🧭 What this is about** A relaxed, nature-first getaway to unwind, recharge, and disconnect from the noise. Think quiet mornings, fresh air, light adventures, and meaningful conversations. Whether you’re looking to reset, reflect on your next move, or just enjoy the outdoors—this is a low-pressure space to do it. *** **🏡 Stay & Cost** * Cottage booked for the full 7 days (May 16–23) * **Cost:** \~$250 per person (full stay) * Short stay (3 days) or longer stay (7 days)—flexible based on what works for you * Goal is to share costs and keep it affordable for everyone *** **🚗 Travel Plan (Flexible)** * **Car 1 (Long Weekend):** May 16 → May 18 (night) or May 19 (morning) * **Car 2 (Full Stay):** May 16 → May 23 (I think you get cellular network. So wfh is a possibility) We’ll coordinate rides once the group forms. *** **🌲 Activities (optional & weather-dependent)** * Canoeing & lakeside downtime * Hiking & exploring nearby trails * Light workouts / stretching * Meditation & quiet reflection time * Casual conversations on startups, career ideas, or just life No rigid schedule—join what you like, skip what you don’t. *** **🛖 Base Setup** * Ontario Parks cottage (safe, maintained, and patrolled) * Acts as a basecamp—no need to worry about tents * Balance of social time and personal quiet time (everyone’s preference respected) *** **🎒 What to bring** * Personal essentials & comfortable outdoor clothing. Check à [https://www.ontarioparks.ca/park/bonnechere/camping](https://www.ontarioparks.ca/park/bonnechere/camping) Site #5 * Food/snacks (we can coordinate basics) * Anything that helps you relax—books, journal, yoga mat, etc. * Cottage Site: **C5** (details available on park page) *** **🤝 Who this is for** * People who enjoy nature, calm, and good company * Those looking to reset, think clearly, or just take a break * Open-minded, respectful, low-drama individuals

**MEDITERRANEAN ESCAPE! AMALFI COAST -ROME-VENICE-CROATIA - SLOVENIA -SICILY-MONTENEGRO- GREECE** **May 17 2026** **LAST CHANCE** **FINAL PAYMENT THIS SATURDAY BY 5:00PM** **(905) 471 7843 or email traveltheworldhorizons@gmail.com** BE IN AWE! WITH THIS INCREDIBLE ITINERARY! You can also stay up to two days pre and post and explore ITALY - Rome and Venice. I will set you up in a great hotel and suggest excursions. **TRAVEL BEFORE THE BUSY SEASON AND EXTREME HEAT!** 2 for 1 AIR - Only $1.034.86 per person! Save another $150.00 off your cabin price. **PICK YOUR PERKS!** **FREE AT SEA DRINK PACKAGE\*** **SPECIALITY DINING\*** **FREE WIFI** **FREE $50.00 U.S. EXCURSION PACKAGE PER PORT = up to $300.00 U.S in discounts** **SOLO CABINS AVAILABLE!** **BEST PRICE ALERT - THIS INCREDIBLE CRUISE INCLUDING AIR IS UNDER $3000.00 FOR INSIDE CABIN DOUBLE OCCUPANCY AND RETURN AIR FROM ITALY! ONLY $2,903.84** See full information below and call me and LETS ESCAPE together! (905) 471 7843 OR traveltheworldhorizons@gmail.com THE MOST SOUGHT AFTER PORTS IN THE MEDITERRANEAN! Fly in two days early and explore ROME ITALY - Stay 2 days post cruise in VENICE with a Group Hotel If you are new to the group or have just been waiting for the right trip - give me a call at (905) 471 7843 and lets talk. You will meet new friend! Step out of your comfort zone and have an amazing cruise to look forward to. PRICING INSIDE CABIN $1146.05 + Port $409.78 + Tax $294.20 TOTAL =$1,850.03 2 Perks OCEAN VIEW $1,678,41 + Port $409.78+ Tax $294.20 =$2382.39 4 Perks BALCONY $2969.39 + Port $409.78 + Tax $294.20 =$3673.33 4 Perks **SOLO CABINS - YES I HAVE A FEW!** Inside Cabin including Port and Taxes - $3405.80 Ocean View Cabin including Port and Taxes $4420.58 **ROOMMATES NEEDED** Female looking to share inside cabin Female looking to share ocean view  Call me at (905) 471 7843! LETS ESCAPE!! See details below! **Croatia and Sicily are two of the hottest destinations for 2026!** Join two nights before the cruise (Optional) to enjoy the incredible city of Venice ! I will have group hotel. If you have not been to Venice this is the time to visit - if you have been - I know you want to go back! We are on the Norwegian Gem Final Payment January 17 2026 Package A Perks Beverage or Soda Package \* Premium Beverage Package\* Ultimate Specialty Dining Package - 1 Dinner \* $50.00 US Shore Excursion Package per cabin Internet Package - 150 Minutes per Person Or Package B Perks $100.00 US On Board Credit per cabin $50.00 US Shore Excursion Package per cabin Internet Package - 150.00 minutes per person 10 Professional Photo Package per Cabin ABSOLUTELY AMAZING ITINERARY - YOU WILL SEE SO MUCH!!! PORTS OF CALL ROME - May 17 2026 Board 4:00pm AMALFI COAST (Salerno) May 18 2026 7:00am to 6:00pm CANTANIA SCILY May 19 2026 7:00am to 4:00pm CORFU GREECE May 20 2026 10:00am to 7:30pm KOTOR MONTENGERO May 21 2026 8:00am to 6:00pm SPLIT CROATIA May 22 2026 7:00am to 5:00pm KOPER SLOVENIA May 23 2026 8:00am to 7:00pm VENICE (RAVENNA) May 24 6:00am FLIGHT $1034.86 includes all taxes and fees. Toronto to Rome Venice to Toronto NOTE You can fly up to 2 days pre and or post - Once you make payment for your flight on January 17 no changes can be made to your flight schedule. You will receive your flight 30 + days before the cruise, probably before that. Norwegian is now offering specialized bookings through their air department - ask me for details. I need Credit Card Expiry and 3 Digit Code Name as it appears on your Passport Mailing Address Phone Number Date of Birth All Information is private and not shared INSURANCE IS Necessary - I will speak to you personally Hope you can join us for this incredible vacation \* 20 Gratuity on Dining and Beverage Package Staff Gratuity not included CANCELLATION:POLICY 120 Days Prior - No Penalty 119 to 106 Days - 25% Penalty 105 to 91 Days -50% Penalty 90-61 Days -75% Penalty 60 Days or less 100% Penalty. BOOKING Call me at (905) 471 7843 or email me at [leeann.jensen@sympatico.ca](mailto:leeann.jensen@sympatico.ca) \*20% Gratuity on Beverage Packages and Dining Staff Gratuity not included Please make sure you are full insured - ask me for details. CRUISE FIRST CERTIFICATE - Deposit $150.00 Canadian and Norwegian will match your deposit with $150.00 FREE $$$$ Total deposit $300.00!!!! If you cancel the cruise the full $500.00 will go back to your Norwegian Latitude Account for another cruise booking. You keep the free money and there is no expiry date. The deposit does not go back to your credit card. You need a Passport with minimum 6 months remaining from date of arrival. Prices/itinerary can change any time. Travel Agency Nexion 380 Wellington St Tower B 6th Floor London #67927204 (519) 660 6966 LeeAnn (905) 471 7843

Picture above - the Amalfi Coast - Italy **MEDITERRANEAN ESCAPE! AMALFI COAST -ROME-VENICE-CROATIA - SLOVENIA -SICILY-MONTENEGRO- GREECE** **BE IN AWE! WITH THIS INCREDIBLE ITINERARY!** **5 DAYS PRE BOXING DAY** **Thursday Dec 11 - Tuesday 15 ONLY** **SAVE $250.00 off your Cabin** **2 for 1 AIR** **FREE AT SEA DRINK PACKAGE\* SPECIALITY DINING\*FREE WIFI FREE $50.00 U.S. EXCURSION PACKAGE PER PORT** **SOLO CABINS AVAILABLE!** TRAVEL BEFORE THE BUSY SEASON AND THE EXTREME HEAT! **BEST PRICE ALERT - THIS INCREDIBLE CRUISE INCLUDING AIR IS UNDER $3000.00 FOR INSIDE CABIN DOUBLE OCCUPANCY AND RETURN AIR FROM ITALY! ONLY $2,903.84** See full information below and call me and LETS ESCAPE together! (905) 471 7843 OR traveltheworldhorizons@gmail.com **THE MOST SOUGHT AFTER PORTS IN THE MEDITERRANEAN!** No roommate yet - hold your Cabin until we find one for you. Fly in two days early and explore ROME ITALY - Stay 2 days post cruise in VENICE with a Group Hotel If you are new to the group or have just been waiting for the right trip - give me a call at (905) 471 7843 and lets talk. You will meet new friend! Step out of your comfort zone and have an amazing cruise to look forward to. PRICING INSIDE CABIN $1146.05 + Port $409.78 + Tax $294.20 TOTAL =$1,850.03 2 Perks OCEAN VIEW $1,678,41 + Port $409.78+ Tax $294.20 =$2382.39 4 Perks BALCONY $2969.39 + Port $409.78 + Tax $294.20 =$3673.33 4 Perks SOLO CABINS - YES I HAVE A FEW! Inside Cabin including Port and Taxes - $3405.80 Ocean View Cabin including Port and Taxes $3897.98 Call me at (905) 471 7843! LETS ESCAPE!! See details below! Croatia and Sicily are one of the hottest destinations for 2026 Join two nights before the cruise (Optional) to enjoy the incredible city of Venice ! I will have group hotel. If you have not been to Venice this is the time to visit - if you have been - I know you want to go back! We are on the Norwegian Gem Final Payment January 17 2026 Package A Perks Beverage or Soda Package \* Premium Beverage Package\* Ultimate Specialty Dining Package - 1 Dinner \* $50.00 US Shore Excursion Package per cabin Internet Package - 150 Minutes per Person Or Package B Perks $100.00 US On Board Credit per cabin $50.00 US Shore Excursion Package per cabin Internet Package - 150.00 minutes per person 10 Professional Photo Package per Cabin ABSOLUTELY AMAZING ITINERARY - YOU WILL SEE SO MUCH!!! **PORTS OF CALL** **ROME** \- May 17 2026 Board 4:00pm **AMALFI COAST (Salerno)** May 18 2026 7:00am to 6:00pm **CANTANIA SICILY** May 19 2026 7:00am to 4:00pm **CORFU GREECE** May 20 2026 10:00am to 7:30pm **KOTOR MONTENGERO** May 21 2026 8:00am to 6:00pm **SPLIT CROATIA** May 22 2026 7:00am to 5:00pm **KOPER SLOVENIA** May 23 2026 8:00am to 7:00pm **VENICE (RAVENNA)** May 24 6:00am **FLIGHT** $1053.81 includes all taxes and fees. Toronto to Rome Venice to Toronto NOTE You can fly up to 2 days pre and or post - Once you make payment for your flight on January 17 no changes can be made to your flight schedule. You will receive your flight 30 + days before the cruise, probably before that. Norwegian is now offering specialized bookings through their air department - ask me for details. I need Credit Card Expiry and 3 Digit Code Name as it appears on your Passport Mailing Address Phone Number Date of Birth All Information is private and not shared INSURANCE IS Necessary - I will speak to you personally Hope you can join us for this incredible vacation \* 20 Gratuity on Dining and Beverage Package Staff Gratuity not included CANCELLATION:POLICY 120 Days Prior - No Penalty 119 to 106 Days - 25% Penalty 105 to 91 Days -50% Penalty 90-61 Days -75% Penalty 60 Days or less 100% Penalty. BOOKING Call me at (905) 471 7843 or email me at [leeann.jensen@sympatico.ca](mailto:leeann.jensen@sympatico.ca) \*20% Gratuity on Beverage Packages and Dining Staff Gratuity not included Please make sure you are full insured - ask me for details. CRUISE FIRST CERTIFICATE - Deposit $250.00 Canadian and Norwegian will match your deposit with $250.00 FREE $$$$ Total deposit $500.00!!!! If you cancel the cruise the full $500.00 will go back to your Norwegian Latitude Account for another cruise booking. You keep the free money and there is no expiry date. The deposit does not go back to your credit card. You need a Passport with minimum 6 months remaining from date of arrival.Prices/itinerary can change any time. Travel Agency Nexion 380 Wellington St Tower B 6th Floor London #67927204 (519) 660 6966 LeeAnn (905) 471 7843

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/bruce-fc-26)** ***Join us for the first camping trip of the season as we head to the turquoise waters and towering cliffs of the famed Bruce Peninsula!*** We are kicking off the year with a beginner-friendly weekend at one of Ontario’s most legendary landscapes: The Bruce is famous for its shimmering, crystal-clear pools and rugged limestone shores. Securing a spot here can be tough, but luckily we have handled all the logistics, so you can focus on mastering your camp skills, soaking in the fresh spring air and maybe even going for a cheeky swim. Our home for the night is a cozy site at Cyprus Lake, tucked within the National Park. Whether you want to learn to build the perfect campfire or simply chill in a hammock under a canopy of pines, this trip is designed for relaxation and discovery. When the sun goes down, we will gather for a communal dinner under skies that offer some of the best stargazing in the province. What's included * Professional & certified guides * ‍All camp meals, cooking equipment and mess kits * ‍Tents Sleeping bags and sleep pads can be rented from WU for a small fee. Please note that due to the trip’s itinerary and extremely limited parking options on the Bruce Peninsula during long weekends, you’ll need to ride with Wilderness Union for this adventure. Please note that the cost of transport is included in the price. **Whether you’re a seasoned camper or it’s your first time in a tent, this adventure has something for everyone.** **Highlights** **Grotto Exploration -** Visit the famous sea caves that feel more like the Mediterranean than Ontario **Dark Sky Stargazing -** Our campsite sits in a Dark Sky Preserve, offering a window into the cosmos in dazzling, untouched clarity. **Learn Camp Skills**\- Our guides will show you how to set up a tent\, build a roaring fire and any other skills you want to learn so you can feel totally prepared for the season ahead\. **Event cost: $420+HST** **Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/bruce-fc-26)** **About Wilderness Union** Wilderness Union is deliberate about building an outdoors community that connects you to the life-changing magic of the outdoors and helps you find your people. Members range from 20-40 years old. The group is a mix of GTA locals and newcomers to Toronto from within Canada and abroad. Attendance numbers on Meetup don't reflect our actual event attendance - we typically have 15-20 community members at each event. Large enough that there's someone new to meet but small enough that it's not overwhelming! ***Learn more at our website [www.wildernessunion.com](https://www.wildernessunion.com/)***

One of our favourite locations for our first trip of 2026, McCrae Lake is in in the south, and will have warmer weather than the more northern lakes. This is an easy trip, good for novice paddlers, to test your new kit, or get back into shape. McCrae Lake is a large lake divided into several bays, on crown land, close to Toronto. The water quality is excellent, and there is good fishing. The backcountry campsites are large, quiet, have a steel grill and thunder box, and are free. More information on McCrae Lake: [https://www.ontario.ca/page/mccrae-lake-conservation-reserve-management-statement](https://www.ontario.ca/page/mccrae-lake-conservation-reserve-management-statement) The water may be warm enough to swim, and the bugs will not be out yet. Fun activities include hiking on wilderness trails, paddling up and down rapids, swimming with rattle snakes, diving off of cliffs into the lake, and dragging out the bodies of people who tried to do all of those things. Watch for the Five-Lined Skink. Or, you can relax in a hammock. McCrae Lake is very popular. We may have to wait for room in the parking lot, and empty campsites. **If anyone in our group can go into McCrae Lake on Thursday or Friday to secure a campsite, it would be appreciated.** Arrive early Sat. AM. to get a parking spot or after 3:00 PM when day hikers go home. We are not required to go home on Monday night. You can continue to camp for as long as you wish. Carpooling is recommended to reduce the number of parking spaces required. Most areas of the lake have cell service sufficient for text messages and data. One portage, 150 metres, well used trail, over a high granite ridge. Paddle distance: 5 km. Canoe rentals should be available if you reserve one in advance: Swift Canoe Georgian Bay [https://swiftoutside.com/georgian-bay/](https://swiftoutside.com/georgian-bay/) Wawautosa Marina [https://www.wawautosa.ca/](https://www.wawautosa.ca/) Driving Distance: From Hwy 7 and Hwy 400, Vaughan Metropolitan Center: 142 km., 1 hour 30 mins. **ACTUAL LOCATION:** **McCrae Lake Parking Lot Muskoka District Municipality, ON** **44.92206400775243, -79.7772977860336** **Please fill in the Spread Sheet below:** https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1V1iupkEzye3zj5O8Sagri1FZyVLGOeM1EDy4ZkgcABo/edit?usp=sharing

Join us for a relaxed and enjoyable brunch at 17 Arrows Kitchen and Bar! This is a great opportunity to meet new people, enjoy good food, and ease into the weekend with great conversation. Whether you’re new to the group or it’s your first event, you’ll feel right at home.

**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.

Who’s up for a fun night out? Get your boots on, grab your cowboy hat, and let’s have some fun! Thinking about checking out PBR Cowboy Bar & Smokehouse for a lively evening to unwind, connect, and enjoy the night together. • Lively atmosphere with country vibes • Delicious food + drinks • Music, dancing, and lots of laughs • Great conversation and new connections