Campos de entrenamiento al aire libre

**📣IMPORTANT📣:** registrations are essential! Attendees that have not registered will be charged $5 to enter. For FREE entry, get your membership below: [https://bit.ly/LanguageExchangeMembership-FluentFast](https://bit.ly/LanguageExchangeMembership-FluentFast) **== Find someone to practice with before the event ==** (Optional:) post the language you're learning (and teaching language) in the comments so the right people can connect with you. E.g. a comment like: "#learnFrench #teachEnglish seeyou all soon :-)". **Overview:** Every week, over 150 people from 23+ countries meet at out language exchange to practice a new language and make new friends over a beer.🍻 The first thing you will notice when you go to New To Melbourne is the great community atmosphere; people in our group are friendly and helpful and always welcoming of new group members. I hope you can bring a friend and join us for some language practice :-) Our language exchange is free and runs every We3ednesday night, there's cheap food & drinks if you arrive at 6pm and want some dinner ;-)🍻🍟 **If you want to attend:** Event cost: **FREE**! (you must register for free entry: [https://bit.ly/LanguageExchangeMembership-FluentFast](https://bit.ly/LanguageExchangeMembership-FluentFast)) **First Time? / What is a language exchange?** If you've never been to a language exchange (many people haven't) we wrote an article for first timers (based on our 8+ years of running language exchanges). It's a comprehensive article and well worth reading: [https://bit.ly/firstTimeAtTheLanguageExchange](https://bit.ly/firstTimeAtTheLanguageExchange) **===== EVENT FORMAT =====** When you arrive, you receive a badge with your native language and the languages you would like to learn. Place them on your chest with your native language on the right and other languages you are learning on the left. Then go meet people and exchange languages! What to bring: Pen and Paper and good vibes! Age Group: 18+ **===== FREE BEER AND PIZZA FOR FRIENDLY VOLUNTEERS! =====** We're looking for friendly volunteers who want to help out and welcome newcomers to the group. We provide free beer/drinks and food (pizza wedges etc) and a friendly team of other volunteers to hang out with. If it's your first time at the event, you're welcome to applt - our volunteers are often newcomers too :-) To find out more about volunteering at our language exchange, please see the link below: [https://bit.ly/NTM-Lang-Exchange-volunteering](https://bit.ly/NTM-Lang-Exchange-volunteering) **===== Group Rules =====** We pride ourselves on running events where people feel safe and open to making new friends. To protect our group members, we have several rules in place: 1\. This is \*not\* a dating group\, please do not ask for people's numbers / socials\. Contact them via the meetup\.com private chat if you want to get in touch\. 2\. Please do not advertise other groups / events / tours on this page or to this groups attendees during / after events\. 3\. Please do not advertise products and services \(e\.g\. MLM / mentorship\)\. Please do not ask our attendees to complete surveys\. 4\. Please do not add people to wechat / whatsapp groups\. By join our group or attending our events, you agree to these rules. If you attend an event and someone is breaking these rules, you can speak to the host if you wish. **===== MENU🍔 =====** The management gave us a special menu with some cheap eats :-)🍟 This section will be updated soon. **===== NEW TO MELBOURNE! =====** This event is run by New to Melbourne! We run fun and affordable event for people mostly between 18-35 including: international students, backpackers and even some locals :-) You can find all our upcoming social events and tours here: [https://bit.ly/FF-Free-language-exchange](https://bit.ly/FF-Free-language-exchange) See you soon! :-)

Let's have fun while watching the night view with our friends! 🏃‍♂️Training menu🏃‍♂️ Every Wednesday 6:00p.m~ Fed Square Assembly 【https://maps.app.goo.gl/zmPQ6U533pUDcNSA9?g_st=ic】 If you have luggage, please consider using the lockers at the station. 💥40~60 min Jog+Walk Pace: Easy pace, suitable for beginners. If you got tired, let's walk together. 【schedule】 6:00 p.m Gathering 6:10 p.m Start 7:00 p.m End of training Challengers we are waiting for you 😊

**Sahaja Yoga Meditation** offers free, guided collective meditation sessions for everyone. Each class includes a simple introduction to meditation, basic techniques for inner balance, and a short talk or discussion on a topic of the day. These meditation classes are suitable for **complete beginners** and **regular meditators**. No prior knowledge or experience is required. **Chairs are provided**, and there are **no physical exercises, postures, or special clothing** needed. Classes usually run for **60 to 90 minutes**, and **no booking is required**. Every session is free and led by volunteers who share Sahaja Yoga to help others experience peace, balance, and self-realisation.

This meetup is your introduction to Dianetics, and you can have your questions answered. **[DIANETICS THE ALL-TIME CLASSIC ON THE HUMAN MIND](https://www.dianetics.org/about/films/what-is-dianetics.html)** For 75 years, Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health has remained popular, with over 20 million copies sold across 206 nations. Why? Because it challenges everything you thought you knew-about yourself, your decisions, and the unseen influences affecting your life. You may not know what the reactive mind is-yet. But once you do, it will change your life forever. This hidden part of your mind stores painful experiences and uses them against you, altering your thoughts, emotions and behaviors in ways you don't even realize. Inside this handbook, you'll discover: • Why the same struggles keep repeating—and how you can break free • The real reason behind stress, unreasonable fears, and negative emotions • A clear step-by-step method to clear your mind and unlock your true potential This is not theory—it's a practical, one-on-one journey into your reactive mind and how you can get rid of it. You don't have to wait for change-you can start today. **Discover the Power of Your Mind** Join us for a relaxed, interactive **Dianetics Meetup**, where it's your chance to explore the groundbreaking discoveries in *Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health* and have all your questions answered. Come with your curiosity—leave with insight. Ask for Michel, Pam or Donovan. If the time and date do not suit you personally, you may reschedule, SMS Pam on: 0405 648 822 https://www.dianetics.org/about/films/what-is-dianetics.html

**Sahaja Yoga Meditation** offers free, guided collective meditation sessions for everyone. Each class includes a simple introduction to meditation, basic techniques for inner balance, and a short talk or discussion on a topic of the day. These meditation classes are suitable for **complete beginners** and **regular meditators**. No prior knowledge or experience is required. **Chairs are provided**, and there are **no physical exercises, postures, or special clothing** needed. Classes usually run for **60 to 90 minutes**, and **no booking is required**. Every session is free and led by volunteers who share Sahaja Yoga to help others experience peace, balance, and self-realisation.

This ride is open to financial MBTC members. Cost for venue is $200 and cost pp will vary depending on the number of people attending. Ideally, we need 10 people to come along and it will be a nice cheap weekend. •What we'll do: Come join us for 1, 2 or 3 days of touring in Creswick and surrounds. We'll also make time to enjoy the various CresFest acts available over the weekend both free and paid. Some will need to be prebooked depending on your choice. Day 1 [https://ridewithgps.com/routes/54455563](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/54455563) Day 2 [https://ridewithgps.com/routes/54455709](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/54455709) Day 3 [https://ridewithgps.com/routes/54455809](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/54455809) If you would prefer, you can also make use of the accommodation and come along for 3 days of riding the Creswick Trails or just to do your own thing. Friday 10th April, Catch the 8.36 am train from Southern Cross Station to Ballarat. We'll meet in the Ballarat Station waiting room at 10 oclock and make our way to Creswick via Kingston, where we'll stop for lunch. It's approx 30k til lunch, so we won't be stopping for a coffee along the way. If you'd like a coffee before you start, please catch the earlier train (7.53am) Saturday we'll head out to the north (this could change if the wind is unfavourable) and then over to Clunes for lunch. Sunday we'll pack up and make our way back to Ballarat via the Creswick Trails and State Forest. Cresfest tickets are currently on sale, so if you are interested in booking a paid event it would be a good idea to start thinking about that now. I have booked a table at the American Hotel for 6.30 on Saturday. There is a supermarket and plenty of cafes in town to purchase food. We can have a BBQ dinner on Friday night, a short walk from the hall. The entire town is booked out but we have secured the use of the local Scout Hall for the two nights. The Hall has plenty of grassed area to pitch your tent or park your van. You can also sleep inside the hall, however, it is a concrete floor. The hall is well equipped, with oven and hotplates, microwave, crockery, cutlery, pots pans, kettle, griller oven, fridge, tables and chairs. You only need to bring your bedding. There is a toilet in the hall but no shower. A free shower is located at a local park, a short distance from the hall. Etiquette: Social pace. We wait for each other to regroup at key navigational points. No one is left behind with a puncture. **RIDE REGISTRATION FORM** The form should be available within a day or two of the ride announcement. The link to the form will be seen in the event messages when you RSVP. Please complete it when available. **ESSENTIAL ITEMS** Functioning headlight & tail light Spare tube and a puncture kit, basic tools MYKI card, ATM card/cash, rain gear, food/snacks, etc. • Important to know Touring or mountain bikes only as we will be riding some loose gravel roads. Not suitable for road bikes Bring camping gear including tent, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, **Water** Recommended to bring 2 water bottles due to distances between towns. It's your responsibility to check the temperature and distance for the day and carry an appropriate amount of water. When riding outside suburbia remember that carrying too much water is better than not enough as the distances between water availability may vary greatly from the planned route due to road closures or other unforeseen circumstances. Check your app for any changes the day before a the ride, as the ride may be cancelled in the event of extreme weather or other unforeseen circumstances. If you cannot make it to the ride please change your RSVP to 'NO' at least one day before the ride day. This ride is for MBTC club members, or those who have not yet done 3 days riding with. To join our club check out [https://www.mbtc.org.au/membership](https://www.mbtc.org.au/membership) Benefits include other rides not listed on Meetup, special event meetings, social events, RWGPS club subscription, etc. The MBTC Refund & Cancellation Policy can be found [here](https://www.mbtc.org.au/refund-cancellation-policy/). When I RSVP for this event/activity I acknowledge that the activity of bicycle riding can be dangerous and that I may suffer loss or injury or death and I agree that in consideration of my participation in any event conducted by the MBTC that I will absolve from liability the MBTC, its officers, and any event organiser from all claims, demands, or suits whether for personal injury or property loss suffered whether by negligence or breach of contract or otherwise, save for any right I may have pursuant to the Trade Practices Act 1977 (Commonwealth) as amended. I agree that photos taken of me during MBTC rides or social events may be used for publicity purposes.

How about we kick off the best day with a jog and coffee together? Trust me, you won't want to miss out! 🏃‍♂️Training menu🏃‍♂️ Every Sunday 8:00~ Fed Square Assembly 【https://maps.app.goo.gl/zmPQ6U533pUDcNSA9?g_st=ic】 If you have luggage, please consider using the lockers at the station. 💥40~60 min Jog+Walk Pace: Easy pace, suitable for beginners. If you got tired, let's walk together. 【schedule】 8:00 Gathering 8:10 Start 9:00 End of training Challengers we are waiting for you 😊

## Burkes Lookout Hike and Meditation ### Dandenong Ranges - Aroha Are you an **adventurer or explorer** who keeps missing out on great hikes because you don’t have a car? **We’ve solved that problem.** Hi, my name is Pranav, and I am a techie. Along with my team, we are bringing you small hiking and meditation sessions. Our adventures come with a **built-in Carpool Hub**, where hikers can easily connect with drivers and passengers heading to the same trail. No car? No problem - just grab a seat and join the adventure. This experience is more than just a hike. Along the trail we’ll pause for a **short guided meditation in nature**, giving everyone a chance to slow down, breathe, and fully enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the Dandenong Ranges. Whether you’re coming solo or with friends, this event is all about **nature, connection, mindfulness, and community**. ## 🗓 Event Details **📍 Hike Location:** Burkes Lookout **Meeting Point:** Mount Dandenong Observatory **Hike Distance:** \~5–6 km **Start Time:** 12:00 PM Please arrive early so we can do a quick introduction before starting. **End Time:** Around 2:00 PM Meditation: Followed by Hike **Difficulty:** Easy to Moderate Beginner-friendly with a relaxed, social pace. CarPool Hub: Follow the link below to complete carpool registration [Click Here](https://aroha-connect--pranavgoyalwork.replit.app/) 🧘‍♀️ Nature Meditation Session After the hike, there will be a **short guided meditation session**. This will include: • Simple breathing exercises • Mindful awareness of nature • A chance to relax and reset mentally No meditation experience is needed. This is a **gentle, beginner-friendly practice** designed to help everyone feel calm, present, and refreshed. 🚗 The Carpool Hub (What Makes This Hike Different) One of the biggest reasons people miss hikes is **transport**. Access our **Carpool Hub** where hikers can: [Click Here](https://aroha-connect--pranavgoyalwork.replit.app/) • Offer seats if they are driving • Request a ride from fellow hikers • Coordinate pickup locations This makes the hike **accessible to everyone**, even if you don’t own a car. Carpooling also helps reduce traffic and makes the journey more social from the very start. 🌿 Why Join? ✨ Meet new people in a relaxed environment ✨ Enjoy a beautiful hike in the Dandenong Ranges ✨ Experience a calming meditation in nature ✨ Perfect for solo explorers or small groups ✨ Carpooling makes the adventure easy Many people arrive alone and leave with **new hiking buddies and friends**. 🎟 Tickets Standard Ticket: $11 Your ticket supports: • Event organisation • Safety preparation • Group coordination • App infrastructure for the Carpool Hub 🚗 **Driver Appreciation Ticket:** $5 Available for drivers offering seats to fellow hikers. 🥾 What To Bring 👟 Comfortable walking shoes 💧 1–2L water 🥪 Snacks ☀ Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses 📱 Phone with maps downloaded Optional: 🧘 Small towel or mat for meditation 🌧 Light rain jacket 📱 After Booking Once you purchase your ticket you’ll receive access to: • The **Carpool Hub** to organise rides • Final meeting instructions • Event updates Please arrange your transport in advance if possible. 📍 About the Location Burkes Lookout is one of the most scenic viewpoints in the Dandenong Ranges. On a clear day you can see: • Melbourne skyline • Port Phillip Bay • The Yarra Valley It’s the perfect spot to pause, take photos, and enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings. 🍽 Optional Post-Hike Coffee After the hike we may stop at a nearby café in Mount Dandenong for coffee or lunch. Joining is optional, but many people stay to **continue the conversations and friendships started on the trail**. ⚠ Important Information • Must be **18+** to attend • Please respect fellow hikers and nature • Participate at your own risk • Positive and inclusive community 🌿 Our Mission We believe hiking should be **accessible, social, and meaningful**. By combining **hiking, meditation, and carpooling**, we’re creating a community where people can explore nature, meet like-minded people, and recharge mentally. Come for the hike. Stay for the community. 🥾 Ready to explore Burkes Lookout and experience nature differently? Grab your ticket and join us. ### Confirm your RSVP by buying a ticket on EVENTBRITE below: [Click Here](eventbrite.com.au/e/burkes-lookout-hike-and-meditation-dandenong-ranges-aroha-tickets-1984701864704?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true) *For More Questions:* Message us at: [aroha.life.community](https://www.instagram.com/aroha.life.community/) Or reach out to me directly at pranavgoyal.work@gmail.com

\*\*\*This is not a hosted Meetup. I'm actually on stage at this show, so can't host but am supplying special discount tickets for this pre-view of the show. So you're welcome along.\*\*\* Event ticket site: https://www.comedyfestival.com.au/browse-shows/an-introvert-s-guide-to-extroverts/ Event description from the ticket page: ......... Following the New Zealand International Science Festival, Luke is returning to Melbourne International Comedy Festival with more goofing and education about introverts and extroverts. \-\-\- PSY24IGE: The role of introverts in society has been diminishing in recent years with their historical positions increasingly taken by those with extrovert tendencies. How can introverts survive and what do they need to do to adapt? This lecture explores the history of introverts in society, their current status and potential future. It is a core lesson within PSY24 and may be attended by others for course credit. Update, tutor Matt Boring (Luke Morris) will be taking this lecture and there are to be no questions about Dr. Lachmann's escaped lab monkeys. It's all totally fine. Do not worry about the escaped monkeys. Bundoora University has that all under control. Funding and show support from Comedy Victoria.

* 🌏 **MELBOURNE → Mount DISAPPOINTMENT**🏙️ * 📅 SUN **12 APR, DAY TRIP ☀️** * ✨Hike gently. Breathe deeply. Live fully✨ \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Leave the rhythm of the city behind and step into a slower, softer day — where time stretches and nature quietly does its work. Soon the forest surrounds us — tall eucalyptus trees, fresh air, and a calm that invites you to slow down. Our guided **hike** unfolds gently through peaceful bushland, around 9–10 km of easy, flowing movement. There is no rush — just space to breathe deeper, notice more, and reconnect with yourself. We pause at **breathtaking lookouts**, where the landscape opens wide and grounding. In this stillness, we share a guided meditation — simple, quiet, and deeply refreshing. Later, we gather for a relaxed **picnic** with a fresh **fruit platter,** snacks, drinks, and easy conversation. The day continues with lightness — a friendly bocce game, laughter, and connection. A gentle wander leads us to a **waterfall** and one more beautiful lookout to complete the experience. Everything is taken care of — transport, guided hike, snacks, drinks, coffee, tea, and gear. Whether you come solo or with friends, you’ll feel part of something warm and real. 🌿 Come as you are — and leave feeling lighter, clearer, and quietly renewed. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ## 🎒 All-Inclusive — Just $99! ✔️ Guided 9 km hike + all gear 🥾 ✔️ Unlimited **snacks** & refreshments 🥤 ✔️ Coffee & tea throughout the day ☕ ✔️ **Fruit** platter 🍏 ✔️ **Meditation** & relaxation session ✨ ✔️ **Comfortable Mercedes minivan transport** (round trip) 🚐 ✔️ Fun bocce game experience 🎯 ✔️ Scenic lookouts & curated itineraries 🌄 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- #### 🕒 Itinerary: 🌅 07:30 — Meet at **St Paul’s Cathedral,** Flinders Street 🍉 08:00 — Short **break** to stretch and refresh ☕ 09:00 — Morning **coffee/tea** and snacks (included!) 🥾 09:15 — Easy **Hike -** 10 km - 140 elevation 🌄 12:30 — Breathtaking **lookout + Mineral springs** 🌿 13:00 — **Meditation** & grounding 🍽️ 13:30 — **Picnic** & **Fruit platter** + drinks/snacks (included!) 🌟 14:30 — Bocce **game** 🌸 15:30 — **Waterfall visiting +** Breathtaking **lookout** 🚐 16:30 — **Scenic** countryside drive 🏙️ 18:00 — Return to **Melbourne** with a heart full of memories 📍 Drop-off: Hammer Hall, Melbourne \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **🎒 What to Bring?** ✔️ **Comfortable hiking shoes (or able to supply, let me know size)** **✔️ Wind/water-resistant jacket**🧥 ✔️ **Long pants & long sleeves** 🌿 ✔️ **Hat/beanie** 🧢 ✔️ **A positive mindset & big smile!** 😊 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **💰 How to Book?** Secure your spot with a **$99 transfer**: 🔹 **PayID:** 0414 661 458 🔹 **Bank Transfer:** **NAME:** KARAPETIAN G **BSB:** 013233 **ACCOUNT:** 226325836 **Ref:** MD 🌟 **Limited spots available—RSVP now!** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ❗️**Please Note:** **Payments are only credited or refunded if the event is canceled or rescheduled by the organizer.** In all other circumstances, payments are **non-refundable and non-transferable**. ❗️Thank you for understanding and supporting the planning involved in creating these experiences! 🌿 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 📢 **Questions?** Feel free to **DM me anytime!** 📩 ✨ **Let’s make this an adventure to remember** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Visit our sources: https://www.facebook.com/groups/812911556223655/?ref=share Instagram: nogeography.hike.kayak https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/no-geography-hike-and-kayak/ \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- \*\*\*Where Relaxation Meets Adventure **\*\*\*** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **LIABILITY WAIVER** The organizer of this group cannot accept any liability for any loss, damage, injury, or accident to participants or their property at this event. By participating in this event, you're taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. By joining this event you agree to these terms. ## **COVID-19 Safety Measures** * The event host is instituting the above safety measures for this event. * Please do not attend if you are experiencing any flu-like symptoms, such as fever, cough, or sore throat. * If you have recently tested positive for COVID-19 or have been in close contact with someone who has, we kindly ask that you refrain from attending. * Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in keeping our community safe!

Main Library, Meeting Room 3B Join us for a welcoming evening of reflection, gentle music, and meaningful conversation. We’ll begin with a short grounding moment, followed by a brief reading from spiritual or philosophical traditions, and an open reflection circle where participants can share (or simply listen). Libera Animae is an interfaith community focused on inner growth, creativity, and authentic connection. All backgrounds are welcome.

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who want to discuss international travel and culture, and anyone who enjoys getting together for good conversations."

Private Group. Closed to the Public Knowing ourselves and understanding our abilities is the first step toward wielding our gifts with control and accuracy. In subsequent classes we will verify and hone our talents with activities and discussion. These are hands-on workshops and participation is expected. The goal of our series will be to develop expertise in areas of particular interest such as mediumship, channeling, divination, healing and, etc.. Our ultimate directions will be determined by class members as we evolve. I look forward to sharing and discovering with you. - Cynthia

**History** [Prairie Oaks Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/prairie-oaks/) sits along the Franklin and Madison County border, west of Columbus near areas like Hilliard and West Jefferson. The land was part of the broader push in the late 1990s and early 2000s to expand the Metro Parks system into the northwest and western quadrants of the county. Metro Parks began acquiring parcels for what would become Prairie Oaks during the millennium era, as part of a wave of new parks aimed at protecting natural features around Big Darby Creek. Much of the property had been altered by past uses, including farming and quarrying, which left behind pits that later became the Darby Bend Lakes. The park's creation reflected growing interest in preserving remnants of the Darby Plains ecosystem, one of Ohio's original prairie regions that had largely disappeared after European settlement. The park officially opened to the public in 2000, making it one of the newer additions to the Metro Parks lineup at the time. As the 12th park in the system, it joined others acquired around the turn of the century, like Glacier Ridge. Initial access focused on basic trails and the scenic Big Darby Creek, a State and National Scenic River that winds through the property. Restoration efforts kicked off soon after opening, with crews using seeds native to the Darby Plains to replant nearly 500 acres of tallgrass prairie and grasslands. These plantings aimed to revive the open oak savannas that once characterized the area before widespread agriculture in the 1800s. Over the first decade, Prairie Oaks grew in popularity for its mix of restored habitats and recreational features. The former quarry in the eastern section transformed into the Darby Bend Lakes area, where four connected lakes now offer boating, fishing, and a dedicated dog swim spot. Trails expanded to showcase the prairie blooms, especially in summer and fall when asters and goldenrods light up the fields. Partnerships with groups like The Nature Conservancy highlighted the park's role in protecting the Darby Creek watershed, often called one of the "Last Great Places" for its water quality and biodiversity. Visitors from around central Ohio started discovering it as a quieter alternative to busier spots closer in. Restoration work continued into the 2010s, including wet prairie projects on about 190 acres to enhance hydrology and native plant diversity. The park's size reached over 2,200 acres, incorporating more floodplain along Big Darby Creek for flood storage and wildlife habitat. Amenities like parking at Sycamore Plains and Darby Bend Lakes improved access, drawing hikers, kayakers, and birders. Events and programs began emphasizing the prairie theme, from guided walks on blooming seasons to educational talks about pre-settlement landscapes. These efforts helped solidify Prairie Oaks as a showcase for ecological recovery in the Metro Parks system. Today, Prairie Oaks stands out for blending restored prairie with creek-side adventure, just a short drive from the west side. Its history mirrors the Metro Parks' shift toward large-scale habitat restoration in the 21st century. The park continues to evolve with ongoing stewardship, protecting what remains of the Darby Plains while offering locals a place to experience tallgrass vistas and oak openings. Whether paddling the lakes or walking the trails, it's a reminder of how much the region has changed since settlement — and how intentional work can bring some of it back. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Prairie Oaks](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/POK_map_1980.jpg). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Coneflower, Alder, and Sycamore Plains Trails, and, depending on conditions, the Osage Opening and Tall Grass Trails, or Lake View, Mound, Darby Creek Greenway, and River Rock Trails around the lakes. Either way, we'll go around 4.5 to 5 miles. For the most part, this won't be a terribly strenuous hike; Prairie Oaks tends to be flat. However, some of the hike won't be shaded, so be prepared for the possibility of some sun. Parts of the trails may also be muddy or wet, so I recommend [hiking shoes](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D972KN3W) and a change of socks. **Where We'll Meet** * Enter the Park at the main entrance at 3225 NE Plain City-Georgesville Rd. If you put "Prairie Oaks Metro Parks" into your Google Maps, it should default to this main address (but double-check to be sure). * After you enter the Park, the first parking lot on your right is the Park Office. Keep driving past this lot. * Enter the second parking lot you come to (which is also on your right). There's a picnic area, playground, and latrine here. There's no water fountain, though, so I recommend you bring water of your own, at least for after the hike. * I've included a screen shot in the Photos, below, where I've circled in blue the main Park entrance as well as the picnic area we're meeting at. **After the Hike** After we're done surveying the prairie grasses, we'll head over to [Crooked Can Brewing](https://crookedcanohio.com/) for [drinks](https://www.crookedcanohio.com/beer) and [food](https://www.crookedcanohio.com/center-street-market). The brewery has an entire food court, and they have a large free parking lot next to the [Early Television Museum](https://www.earlytelevision.org/). The actual address of the brewery is [5354 Center St, Hilliard, OH 43026](https://www.google.com/maps/place/5354+Center+St,+Hilliard,+OH+43026/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x883893f9ede6d5fb:0xbecf42d7055d9006?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.

Let’s walk the gardens and enjoy what has spring has on display.

Join us for a two mile trail hike alongside the Brookside Trail at Blendon Woods Metro Park. This trail is largely gravel and does include some hills and stairs. Hopefully we will see some wildlife while hike this scenic trail! Join us!