Jogging & Running

**If you would like to sign up, please TWINT the 8.- CHF to me at +41 78 317 7037. If you do not have TWINT, please let me know and we can figure out an alternative.** Join us for a pick-up football session at Sportanlage *Heerenschürli* on March 6th from 20:00 - 21:30! Football players of all ages, genders, and skill levels are welcome. We will be playing on half a pitch, so hopefully we can get a good 7- or 8-a-side game going. All you have to do is bring your football boots. I will provide balls and bibs. If you have any issues finding the group, my cell number is +41 78 317 7037 and my WhatsApp is +1 (440) 225-3090. ⚠️ By attending, you agree to the Swiss Kicks liability disclaimer in the group description and play at your own risk ⚠️

**[⚠️ >>Ticket needed (click here)<<](https://eventfrog.ch/en/p/eating-drinking/speed-friending-karaoke-7431993972208220780.html) or** **[www.social-circle.ch](www.social-circle.ch)** New to the city? Growing your social circle? Or simply done with awkward small talk? Come along for a relaxed, playful evening where real connections meet feel-good fun. Join our WhatsApp group for updates on the event: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/JRFHQScOLFi8Mf29OwDotb](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JRFHQScOLFi8Mf29OwDotb) *(If the link doesn’t open on your phone, try using WhatsApp Web on your computer)* We’ll begin with **Speed Friending** — short, guided 1:1 conversations designed to help you genuinely connect. Later, we’ll shift into **Karaoke mode** — sing your heart out, cheer others on, or just enjoy the atmosphere with a drink. The vibes get lighter, the conversations deeper. ✨ What you can expect: * Fun, easy conversation prompts * Open-minded, welcoming people * A safe space to be yourself * Laughter, music, and spontaneous duets Who it’s for: People in their 20s–40s in Zürich who want to make new friends in a more authentic, enjoyable way. ⚠️ Important: Please set up your profile first To join the event, create your profile here: [www.social-circle.app](http://www.social-circle.app/) *P.S. Photos may be taken during the event. If you prefer not to be photographed, please let the organizer know. Tickets are non-refundable.* Want more events like this? Join our newsletter: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/Hmm9DZP3wzaL8cXrtAAafw](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Hmm9DZP3wzaL8cXrtAAafw)

**❤️ WELCOME HOME** @ **Connection Space❤️** *Meet **new friends**. Reconnect with **old** ones. Feel at **home** — inspired by old traditional Greek cafés, where grandparents knew that the best connections happen over a drink and good company* . * **free** event * **See** **[PHOTOS & VIDEOS](https://photos.app.goo.gl/o476bvQ6ZC8CGhG57)** of our previous events * **Join our** **[WHATSAPP](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ks9sGHsw16TIaJmDUQqoSi)** (zero-spam promise) and **[INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/wearetheconnectionspace/)** for **latest info** on this event and **extra events** . . **Why? Offline fun meaningful connections** is what we all deeply desire and makes us truly happy and healthy (scientifically proven - read below)! . . **How?** We are not a "drinks meetup" - instead we create **one** event to **make new friends** that has many **free** and **fun** optional activities: * **20:00 speed-friending** (glass room on ground floor) guaranteed process to meet new people while having fun - with moderator * **20:30 team versus team playful games** (glass room on ground floor) lets stop being serious and be childish again ! With moderator * **22:00 dance party** (glass room on ground floor) with reggaeton and hits * new-comer area * fun social card/board games * mindful card/board games * 3 chill-out rooms (if you prefer quietness) * big outdoors area * or simply **talk to anyone** ! . . . * We booked 100% of the location so its **safe to talk to everyone** * ***The event is inspired*** *by the [Swiss Stammtisch](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stammtisch) and Greek village coffeeshops ("[Καφενείο](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kafenio)"), once vibrant [community hubs](https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=569660528&sxsrf=AM9HkKlXnclaLfgcockKtdr9qHdmD5jaGw:1696060562834&q=greek+%5D(https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=569660528&sxsrf=AM9HkKlXnclaLfgcockKtdr9qHdmD5jaGw:1696060562834&q=greek+)%CE%BA%CE%B1%CF%86%CE%B5%CE%BD%CE%B5%CE%B9%CE%BF&source=lnms&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwi52fX67dGBAxXnlf0HHZNiBHUQ0pQJegQICRAB&biw=1460&bih=913&dpr=2&udm=2) where people gathered daily. We innovate this concept with a modern twist. I, Christos, fondly remember visiting these with my grandfather and now revive this fading tradition with a modern twist. Hope you enjoy it ❤️* * 95% of people come **solo** \- you can too❤️ * Want to **host an activity** in 1 of our 4 private rooms? Workshops, games, connection activities, music, or any other ideas then send a message to Christos on 0768175380 * **Everyone is welcome**! Wir wollen gerne mehr **Schweizer/innen** dabei haben! Alle sind willkommen und die meisten können Deutsch sprechen. Not an expat event. **Everyone is welcome**! * The "**Connection Space**" meetup group is an independent meetup group and is **only** associated with "**[Career Direction Space](http://meetup.com/career-direction-space/)**" group and no other meetup group * **Testimonials** (scroll to "photos" section to read testimonials) *"The best event I know on Meetup to connect to new friends."* *"First participation, an evening to remember!"* *"So far in 7 years this is the first time I see a really good organised event!"* *"Mega schön" "Had a blast!"* *"I was positively surprised. They organized everything so well; I met some interesting, friendly people. I highly recommend it"* *"Great! Everything excellent, super organized... lots of people. Great atmosphere"* *"I am really grateful for the warm atmosphere, inspiring moments"* * We encourage no/low alcohol consumption and only allow responsible behaviours. . . . . . Want **more info** than our Summary above? Then please read below: . . . . . **WHY?** we ❤️ **uniting people** and building **community** while having **fun!** We truly believe that **fun meaningful offline connections** to new & existing friends makes us truly happy and healthy! Our community meets **every 2 Fridays** in a **homey,** caring and **welcoming** "come as you are" environment ! . **WHAT is this event?** We are not a "party or drinks" meetup, nor we follow a "forced" process and agenda. Instead, we are a **Connection Community** inspired by Greek village cafes and Swiss Stammtisch — a welcoming environment where neighbours gathered as equals to share stories and build lasting friendships. We meet in a "**fixed-rhythm**" every 2 Fridays in a **homey** & **lovingly-hosted space** so you can connect with new and familiar faces. We provide **several optional activities** to help you **connect** with others—so you're free to **explore what resonates** with you! Together these activities create a unique **Connection** **Event.** . **HOW? Today's activities** are: * **new comer area** (never was easier to spark a conversation, with ice-breakers, optional for first time attendees) * **fun social games** (like "cards against humanity" and more - read game names below) * **mindful games** (no small talk, connect deeper, from [The School of Life](https://www.theschooloflife.com/shop/?_product_type=games-card-sets) \- read game names below\) * \*\* 20:00 - 20:30 Speed-friending\*\* (glass room on ground floor) guaranteed process to meet spark new fun discussions and meet new people - with moderator) * \*\* 20:30 - 21:00\*\* **Team Versus Team Playful games** (glass room on ground floor) to stop being so serious, stop adulthood and be silly ! * \*\* 22:00 - 00:00\*\* **Dance Party** (glass room on ground floor) lets dance the week away with reggaeton & hits * beautiful **homey** industrial location in downtown ZH * **German-speaking** area (falls du nur Deutsch sprechen möchtest) * \*\* chill-zones\*\* in private quiet rooms (if you want to talk or play games in quietness) * or simply **hang-out** and **meet new & old friends** **without** a process ❤️ . . . **TIPS on how to connect:** * **Look out for a good smile/vibe** in a person/group of 2-3 people and say "Hi my name is xxx, can I join?". * **Try something different** (person, game, table, activity) often until you find **fun** **quality connection.** We have a lot of activities * **Ask** **Support:** we understand going out to meet friends can be a stretch. We make this easy with a fun and safe event. Also you can ask for help from our clearly communicated (see photos of this event) "**People Connectors**" who can help you discreetly to connect with others * **Invest time**(not quickly just come by) as friendships are an investment * **Come back**: big turnaround, people come randomly at each event, so you never know who you ll meet . . **.** **Some final words:** * **Bravo** **to you** for the courage to go out to meet new people! We know **everyone is unique** \- thats why we got a big new\-comer area\, 4 co\-hosts welcoming and connecting you\, and many activities for you to **choose** from to find what **suits you**! * **Weather?** Event takes place rain or shine, with indoors rooms and outdoors area that is ultra rain-protected * **Coming late?** no problem, we got many people until closing at 00:00 so come whenever! * **Too many attendees?** no problem, we got the space! Also as per the "what" above: you define what makes the event meaningful for you! Furthermore, the co-organisers have one goal: to say hi and introduce you to the event and people (if you want to please ask)! Finally remember: you dont have to talk to everyone, focus in a few people! Less is more! If you dont know where to start look for a good smile or an activity more matching to you. From there keep on trying people and activities.. * **Why so many options above for connection?** We always have: a first-timer area, Fun social games, Mindful games, ice-breaker questions or simply just talk freely to anyone. Often we add: Speed-friending and a Music jam. We believe **you are unique** and each of us prefers different ways of connection. Also we want to provide an opportunity for everyone to try something new * **Easy and Safe:** We have the whole location reserved for us so its safe to open up and meet new friends (unlike bars in Zürich where people find it strange if strangers talk to them). Christos and volunteers will also help with connection. Read more info below. * **Christos** (see [PHOTO](https://photos.app.goo.gl/pdtVaVGCyDEJ28uE8)) and our co-organisers will be wearing name budges and will aim to **welcome** **everyone.** * more info via our **[LINKS](http://linktr.ee/connectionspace)** * Yes YOU are **good** & **courageous** for looking for new fun connections! * Everyone is in same situation and you ll be surprised how **friendly people** are ❤️ * Come **early** though **later** also ok as many people there **until 00:00** * **It works**! We heard of many new friendships, living together and even getting a new job * **Mindful Connection Games:** from [The School of Life](https://www.theschooloflife.com/shop/?_product_type=games-card-sets) available: Confessions Game, The Friendship Game, Connection Game, The Loser Game, Games for grown-ups and three sets of "100 questions" (Conversation Toolkit & Careers & Relationships) * **Fun Social Games:** bring your own **board/card games** or choose from: Cards against humanity, Exploding Kittens, Codenames, Debatable, Sotally Tober, Taboo, Mafia, Uno, Monopoly and more. . . . . ``` Disclaimer & participation terms (Connection Space): By registering for and/or attending this event (“Event”), you agree: Registration required. Follow organizer/venue instructions; we may refuse entry or remove anyone for safety/behavior.You attend voluntarily and at your own risk; risks include injury/illness, conflicts/harassment, emotional distress, and property loss/damage.To the maximum extent permitted by law, Connection Space/organizers/staff/venue/partners aren’t liable for injury, loss, theft, damage, or costs; this doesn’t limit liability where unlawful (e.g., gross negligence/intent).Zero tolerance for violence, threats, harassment/discrimination, unwanted touching, weapons, illegal drugs, or unsafe/excessively intoxicated behavior. Report issues; we may remove participants and contact security/police/emergency services.You’re responsible for your health/fitness, alcohol use, transport home, allergies/diet; no allergen-free guarantee.You’re responsible for your belongings and any damage you cause.Photos/video/audio may be recorded and used for marketing by Connection Space/partners; opt out by telling us at check-in (we’ll try, but can’t guarantee exclusion from background footage).You must follow third-party venue rules; we may change schedule/location/format for safety or operational reasons. Finally, the organisers have the right to refuse entry with and without a ticket as the organizers see fit. In case of a ticket purchase a full refund will be made in that case. ```

Hello dear tennis enthusiast. Every Friday morning we meet up for our “Adult tennis group sessions” in Zurich. It is open for both women and men. You will train in groups of max 4 players per 1 court Level: 11am - Medium Level Group Fee : 70 CHF per person (all included) Monthly payments are preffered, this way you have guaranteed booked slot for the whole month. We train on nice clay courts at TA Frauental during the summer and winter season. To Book your spot please send payment via Twint in advance min. 48 hrs before the event starts - Twint number is +41 78 257 75 42 (feel free to message me for more info via Whatsapp on +41 78 257 75 42) Cancellation policy: Please notify me at least 48 hrs before the start of our training session, so I can find a replacement for you, if replacement not found you can invite your friend to take your slot otherwise you lose the fee. If you want to improve your tennis game, JOIN us and lets train together. See you on the court!

Hello dear tennis enthusiast. Every Friday morning we meet up for our “Adult tennis group sessions” in Zurich. It is open for both women and men. You will train in groups of max 4 players per 1 court Level: 10am Beginners Group 1 Fee : 70 CHF per person (all included) Monthly payments are preffered, this way you have guaranteed booked slot for the whole month. We train on nice clay courts at TA Frauental during the summer and winter season. To Book your spot please send payment via Twint in advance min. 48 hrs before the event starts - Twint number is +41 78 257 75 42 (feel free to message me for more info via Whatsapp on +41 78 257 75 42) Cancellation policy: Please notify me at least 48 hrs before the start of our training session, so I can find a replacement for you, if replacement not found you can invite your friend to take your slot otherwise you lose the fee. If you want to improve your tennis game, JOIN us and lets train together. See you on the court!

First Saturday hash will be an OUTSTATION: **Bern Hash House Harriers 1000th Run Extravaganza!** **When:** 7th March 2026 @ 14:00 **Where:** Herrenschwanden, Dorf **Trail:** A to A **Hares:** a select crew of some of Bern H3's finest **What to bring:** money for restaurant (optional) **Special info.:** please fill out the Google form at this link - [https://forms.gle/jZYxwdectdMtZK5P8](https://forms.gle/jZYxwdectdMtZK5P8) **Word about the day:** Trail will have it all: forests, countryside, mud, bugs, snacks and BEER! There will be Trails for both walkers and runners, with a scrumptious Drink Stop and our first Circle in the esteemed Hashing Universe of quadruple digits! **How to get there:** It's best to come by public transport. From the Postauto station upstairs in the Bern Bahnhof, catch either Bus 105 from Stop V at 13:33 (direction ("Lyss"), arriving at Herrenschwanden, Dorf at 13:44, or Bus 106 from Stop U at 13:38 (direction "Zollikofen"), arriving at Herrenschwanden, Dorf at 13:50. Once there, look for Hashers. It's a small village, we'll probably outnumber the locals. If you do choose to come by car, please park in the lot by the old schoolhouse here: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/6zVGmoT5ZGC8Tyx1A](https://maps.app.goo.gl/6zVGmoT5ZGC8Tyx1A)

**Founders Running Club** (FRC) brings founders, investors, tech, creative people and startup enthusiasts together for weekly easy runs and networking. We like to be comfortable when we run and finish with coffee and conversations. Choose your pace or follow a pacer—pets, friends, family, are welcome. 🗓️ Launched in San Francisco, July 16, 2022 🌍 Now in 35+ cities 📅 Running + Networking events + Community **Join the community** [http://foundersrc.com/chats](http://foundersrc.com/chats) **Stay updated**: Instagram [http://instagram.com/foundersrc/](http://instagram.com/foundersrc/) Podcast [http://podcast.foundersrc.com/](http://podcast.foundersrc.com/) LinkedIn [http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/](http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/) Strava [http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC](http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC) Website [http://foundersrc.com/](http://foundersrc.com/)

**Join me for a beautiful run alongside the Werenbach.** Start in front of the Opera, run until "Zollikerberg, Trichtenhausermühle" and back. The track is around 5K one way, has just under 200m elevation and can be run – go and back – in a little bit over an hour... at least that's how long it takes me. I will only go, if it is not raining. *Please be on time.* Join me for some recharging forest and river vibes. Escape the city but without having to go far. See you there Max

Hi everyone! Wanna Dance into the Weekend? This Saturday we will have an energetic and fun Afrodance Workout class with Vanessa to your favourite Afrobeats, Dancehall and Brazilian tunes. No dance experience needed, easy-to-follow class and for beginners! 💃🏻 Always a great group of people coming together to enjoy the dance moves, the good vibes, music and to sweat it out together. First free class - please book your spot When and Where: Saturdays, 10:30-11:30 Location: Offdance Studio Zweierstrasse 106 8003 Zürich Big dance studio with changing rooms and showers. Please [sign up here](https://afroworkout.as.me/free-class) to reserve your free Afrodance Workout class [https://afroworkout.as.me/free-class](https://afroworkout.as.me/free-class) There will be always more people in a class than shown on Meet up. Don‘t hesitate to sign up! Contact Vanessa for any questions! 079 324 16 61 Can‘t wait! Check daily updates on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/afroworkout.ch?igsh=dnV2Y28yMmVna3F2&utm_source=qr) Website for more information and class info [https://www.afroworkout.ch](https://www.afroworkout.ch) Move, Dance and Stay Fit to Afrobeats!

Are you looking for a way to start your Sundays on the right foot? Look no further! Our weekly Sunday morning yoga class is the perfect way to energize your mind, body, and soul. This Sunday morning yoga class is designed to help you relax and find inner peace, leaving you feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the week ahead on a positive note. In this class, you will experience a combination of physical postures, deep breathing and mindfulness that will help to reduce stress, improve your focus and concentration, boost your energy levels, and enhance your overall well-being. You will also develop greater body awareness, increase flexibility, and strengthen your muscles. The peaceful and calming environment will allow you to disconnect from the world and focus on your own well-being. This is the perfect opportunity to prioritize self-care and invest in your physical and mental health. The hybrid yoga class, both online and in-person, is for everyone. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned yogi, you'll benefit from this yoga class. I promise that you will feel much more relaxed, recharged and rejuvenated after this yoga class, 100% guaranteed :) Your contribution: 25 CHF (online live, first time 15CHF), 30 CHF (first time 15CHF, in the Yoga Studio at Oerlikon, Zurich). Note: We're excited to announce the new Referral Program! Share your love of yoga with your friends or colleagues and receive a free class for every referral who signs up. Plus, your friends can enjoy their first class for just 10 CHF. Please let me know which format (online or in-person) you like to join. See you on the mat :)

To celebrate International Women's Day on March 8th, I'm organizing a Girls Walk in the afternoon at 5:15 PM. From 6:00 PM to 6:30 PM, you can enjoy a delicious prosecco, wine, or tea with snacks. A Girls-only Pilates group will also start at 6:30 PM. Sign up and join the group chat in the description if you’re interested. Pilates has 8 spots and for the walk there are unlimited spots. I hope to see you soon. 🎀 📍Frauentalweg 16, Zurich (Reactics studio) 🕔 17:15 - 18:00 Girls Afternoon Walk Together ☀️ 🕕 18:00 - 18:30 Tea with Girls Together 🕣 18:30 - 19:20 Pilates Girls only 💕 How it works: We’ll meet at Reactics studio. You can drop off your bag there. If you don't want to exchange clothes, you can also come and have a nice walk, wine, prosecco or cup of tea with snacks and girls talk. For the Clothes Swap: Bring clothes you'd like to swap and a large towel to the studio. I'll create a chat before the event starts with a size poll so you know what to expect. I'm expecting sizes XS, S, and M. There will be a clothes swap from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM, and at 7:30 PM, I'll start with a Pilates class on the mat for all levels. There are plenty of Pilates mats in the studio, so you don't need to bring your own. The large towel is for the clothes swap. 👚👙👗 Please remove your shoes at the studio entrance. Whatsapp group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JuYk8RqeSmh8ArmHjEPZsB?mode=gi_t Tickets: https://eventfrog.ch/de/p/sport-fitness/yoga/clothes-swap-pilates-7430941225711104518.html

**_DE_** (_EN below_): Wir, Peter und Patrick, sind zwei Physiotherapeuten mit einer Leidenschaft für Sport und Bewegung. Bei unserem **Gruppenfitness Training** trainierst du gemeinsam mit anderen, das motiviert, macht Spaß und hilft, dranzubleiben. Wir kombinieren Kraft, Ausdauer, Beweglichkeit und funktionelle Übungen, passend für alle Fitnesslevels. **Wichtig:** Bitte kommt in bequemer Sportkleidung. Wer nicht direkt auf dem Boden trainieren möchte, bringt gerne eine Matte mit. Du kannst an einem kostenlosen Probetraining teilnehmen. Danach besteht die Möglichkeit, ein Trainingsabo zu lösen: • 5 Trainings: 160 CHF • 10 Trainings: 280 CHF • 20 Trainings: 490 CHF Werde Teil unserer aktiven Community und erlebe, wie viel Energie Gruppentraining geben kann! **_EN_** We, Peter and Patrick, are two physiotherapists with a passion for sports and movement. In our **group fitness sessions**, you train together with others! it’s motivating, fun, and helps you stay consistent. We combine strength, endurance, mobility, and functional exercises, suitable for all fitness levels. **Important:** Please wear comfortable sports clothing. If you prefer not to train directly on the ground, feel free to bring a mat. You can join a free trial session. After that, you have the option to choose a training package: • 5 sessions: CHF 160 • 10 sessions: CHF 280 • 20 sessions: CHF 490 Become part of our active community and experience how energizing group training can be!

Join us for our inaugural hike of the 2026 season as we hike the first leg of the Big Walnut trail. We will leave from Morse Rd at Hanna Realty and hike 2 miles on a flat paved trail along Big Walnutl creek and looping Academy Park. See you Sunday at 3 pm!

⚠️ **IMPORTANT: You must sign up and buy a ticket here to attend:** [https://groupvibe.com/](https://groupvibe.com/) **Join the Columbus City Brunch Club and make new friends!** Each meetup brings together 4–6 people for casual conversations over brunch. We use the Groupvibe platform to facilitate the meetup and ensure everyone’s a good fit. 👉 **To attend, you’ll need to complete registration via this link:** [https://groupvibe.com/](https://groupvibe.com/) We’ll share the exact location of the upcoming meetup the night before only if you have bought a ticket or membership plan. **Why this works:** \* Smaller groups make real conversations easier. \* Discover new restaurants in your city, together. \* Curated lunch venues with good food and vibe. \* If you hit it off with your group, there’s plenty of time to hang out afterwards. **Note:** RSVPs on Meetup don’t reflect total attendance. Many attendees register directly via our website. The event on [Meetup.com](http://meetup.com/) is only a placeholder. This meetup is organized by Groupvibe, a small team passionate about helping people form meaningful friendships offline.

**Adults Only** Roller Skating — Don’t Miss This We’re bringing back childhood — but this time it’s adults only. Music. Lights. Good vibes. **Beginner-friendly** No experience needed — just show up and roll. This is our first paid event so we can host bigger, better experiences going forward. Limited spots. Cross posted **20 rsvp max** ✅ Adults-only session ✅ Newbie friendly (help included) ✅ Great workout (burn up to 600 calories/hour) ✅ Possible drinks after Skate Zone 71 Meet 8:20 PM (arrive before 8:35) **You will still need $13 admission + $6 skate rental** (or bring your own) bring cash I can often get us a $2 discount!

Columbus libraries: [https://cml.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S105C3262835](https://cml.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S105C3262835) Location: [Knotty Pine Brewing](https://www.knottypinebrewing.net/) [Menu, scroll to the bottom](https://www.knottypinebrewing.net/menus-1) Book summary: Adunni is a fourteen-year-old Nigerian girl who knows what she wants: an education. This, her mother has told her, is the only way to get a "louding voice" -- the ability to speak for herself and decide her own future. But instead, Adunni's father sells her to be the third wife of a local man who is eager for her to bear him a son and heir. When Adunni runs away to the city, hoping to make a better life, she finds that the only other option before her is servitude to a wealthy family. As a yielding daughter, a subservient wife, and a powerless slave, Adunni is told, by words and deeds, that she is nothing. But while misfortunes might muffle her voice for a time, they cannot mute it. And when she realizes that she must stand up not only for herself, but for other girls, for the ones who came before her and were lost, and for the next girls, who will inevitably follow, she finds the resolve to speak, however she can--in a whisper, in song, in broken English--until she is heard

**History** [Slate Run Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/slate-run/), located south of Canal Winchester in Pickaway County, has roots tracing back to the early planning efforts of the Columbus and Franklin County Metropolitan Park District. In 1963, Metro Parks officials identified the land along Slate Run as having strong potential for a large metropolitan park due to its expansive acreage, diverse habitats, and natural features like the stream that gave the area its name. The largest stream in the vicinity, Slate Run, flows south to northwest through a ridge, providing a logical basis for the park's designation. Between 1964 and 1968, Metro Parks acquired approximately 1,662 acres through multiple parcels, including a key 212-acre farmstead that had been continuously operated since 1805. This acquisition phase positioned Slate Run as a future major addition to the system, following the openings of other parks like Sharon Woods in 1968 and Highbanks in 1973. The park officially opened to the public in 1981, marking it as the sixth Metro Park in the district and, at the time, the largest with its substantial land holdings. From the outset, Metro Parks envisioned incorporating a living historical farm to educate visitors about 19th-century Ohio agriculture. The focal 212-acre parcel, purchased from the White family heirs in 1964, included historic structures that made it ideal for this purpose. The park's development preserved natural areas such as grasslands, wetlands, meadows, and forests while integrating interpretive elements. Upon opening, Slate Run quickly became a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Central to the park's identity is the Slate Run Living Historical Farm, which interprets life on a typical Ohio farm in the 1880s. The gothic revival farmhouse on the site was constructed in 1856 by owner Isaac Fridley and later restored by Metro Parks for historical accuracy. Visitors can explore interiors like the living room, parlor, and kitchen, where interpreters demonstrate period activities. The multi-bay barn, built in 1881 by Samuel Oman (the fourth owner), was meticulously restored with help from Amish carpenters. Heirloom animals such as Percheron horses, pigs, geese, and turkeys inhabit the farm, enhancing the immersive experience. The historical farmstead reflects a long lineage of ownership and agricultural use dating back to the early 19th century. Continuous farming on the land since 1805 made the site authentic for recreating late-19th-century practices, including grain harvesting and animal husbandry. Metro Parks focused on authenticity by restoring original buildings and introducing period-appropriate methods, such as horse-powered threshing machines from the late 1880s. The farm operates with volunteers and staff in period attire to portray daily rural life. This educational component has drawn school groups and families for decades. Today, Slate Run Metro Park spans about 1,705 acres and attracts roughly 250,000 visitors annually for its blend of natural preservation and historical interpretation. The park maintains diverse habitats supporting wildlife like nesting sandhill cranes and reintroduced northern bobwhite quail. Trails and open spaces offer opportunities for hiking and observation amid the preserved landscapes. The Living Historical Farm remains a crown jewel, continuing to teach about Ohio's agricultural heritage. Ongoing programs and restorations ensure the site's relevance for future generations. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Slate Run](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/SLR-parkmap@2x.gif). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Five Oaks, Sugar Maple, Covered Bridge, Shagbark, and Lake Trails. This will be around 4.5 to 5 miles. While Slate Run is moderately strenuous in a few places, it's generally a good place to hike and doesn't seem to wear people out. Some spots on the hike are unshaded, though, so be prepared for the possibility of some sun. I find Slate Run to be very underappreciated for the quality of its hiking. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet at the [Shady Grove Picnic Area](https://www.google.com/maps/place/39%C2%B045'30.1%22N+82%C2%B050'13.2%22W/@39.758347,-82.83701,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m4!3m3!8m2!3d39.758347!4d-82.83701?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDIxMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). You can use the map pin I've provided here; it's accurate. There's a latrine at Shady Grove, but there is no running water (no water fountains). We will pass a water fountain when we get to the Buzzard's Roost Picnic Area, although I can't guarantee this fountain won't be off for the winter. I'd recommend bringing some water just in case, at least for after the hike. I'd also recommend [hiking shoes](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D972KN3W) for this park. **After the Hike** Once we're finished at Slate Run, we'll head over to [Loose Rail Brewing](https://looserailbrewing.com/) for [drinks](https://looserailbrewing.com/canal-winchester-canal-winchester-loose-rail-brewing-drink-menu) and [food](https://looserailbrewing.com/canal-winchester-canal-winchester-loose-rail-brewing-food-menu). The brewery's actual address is [37 W Waterloo St, Canal Winchester, OH 43110](https://www.google.com/maps/place/37+W+Waterloo+St,+Canal+Winchester,+OH+43110/@39.8432511,-82.8071032,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88387be3ac496d83:0x23e8ee9d9391dd6b!8m2!3d39.8432511!4d-82.8071032!16s%2Fg%2F11cp8n8x1j?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDIxMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), and it's about 10-12 minutes from Slate Run. We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.