Lieux de randonnée abordables

**Please RSVP at [our website](https://surreyyoungwalkers.org.uk/walk-detail.php?id=2214) (green button) and not here, thanks!** Let's walk the Circle Line! Meeting outside Waterloo station (at Paddington London Mural ), we'll go together to our start point of Westminster tube station and from there visit (and photograph!) every stop on the original (circular) Circle Line. This is a great way to take in the sights of central London whilst also providing those training for the Jurassic Coast Mighty Hike a chance to get lots of (admittedly flat) miles in! Please note the distance and terrain (tarmac) and plan your footwear accordingly. There is of course an easy option to hop on the tube back for those who prefer a shorter walk :) We'll have a cafe/pub stop in the morning and afternoon but please bring a picnic lunch. We've provided an automated estimate of the end time and this will be affected by many factors - please only use as a guide. The description above may also have specific notes on ending details.

*If that sounds like a bit of you, then get **Sunday 17 May 2026** in your diary. It sees the return of the Grand Flaneur Walk, in which the dapperest chaps and chapesses of London Town dress up to the nines in their finest seersucker, blazers, boaters and playsuits, before embarking on the dandiest — and let's be honest, showiest — stroll around central London you're likely to witness.* *The rendezvous, for anyone who wishes to watch or take part (it's open to all), is 12pm at [Courtyard Wine Cellars](https://www.coventgarden.london/brand-directory/courtyard-wine-cellars) in Covent Garden, where a complimentary dram is promised for participants, before a few stirring words on the subject of flanerie shared by Chap editor Gustav Temple. After this, the budding boulevardiers set on their 'merry way towards Baudelaire only knows where'.* Further info at: https://londonist.com/london/things-to-do/grand-flaneur-walk Join us for our next meetup at Richmond Park, where we’ll focus on outdoor and nature photography. This is a prime time to capture the park’s transition into late spring, focusing on the deep textures of the ancient oaks and the dynamic movement of the deer herds. 📍 Meeting point: [Courtyard Wine Cellar](https://www.coventgarden.london/brand-directory/courtyard-wine-cellars) 🧭 Address: 17B and 18B The Market Building, London, WC2E 8RB Bring your any camera (digital, analog, phone or video), and let’s see what we can capture! **What to expect** A friendly environment where all cameras and skill levels are welcome. This is not a workshop; if you’d like to grow your photography skills, check out our other events and workshops designed for those who want to learn more about photography techniques. **Stay connected** The day of the event, Live location will be shared on our WhatsApp group ([https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ek2mMMZioqu19CJJPoQal4](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ek2mMMZioqu19CJJPoQal4)) **Want help with your camera?** We welcome all kind of photo and video cameras! You’re welcome to ask for tips: we’re a supportive community. However, for a proper learning experience, we recommend asking the host about 1:1 coaching sessions or checking our Meetp page for upcoming workshops. **Join our online communities** * Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/friendsbyframe](https://www.instagram.com/friendsbyframe) * WhatsApp: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ek2mMMZioqu19CJJPoQal4](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ek2mMMZioqu19CJJPoQal4)

**PLEASE NOTE that we are now hosting our games on Sportas.** **BOOK HERE:** https://sportas.co.uk/organiser/east-village-basketball/games **Game Description:** Ready to hit the court, level up your game and meet fellow ballers? Join us at East Village Basketball 🏀 every Sunday, 5:30pm - 7:30pm at Harris Chobham Academy Sports Hall in Stratford, London. **👥 Stay Connected!** Join our WhatsApp group for updates, discounts, waitlist alerts and community banter: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/KoCHcbG51YWKtTNgNblydH](https://chat.whatsapp.com/KoCHcbG51YWKtTNgNblydH) Any questions, feel free to WhatsApp me directly on +44 (seven) 365 804 810 **What to Expect:** ⚡ 2 hours of non-stop pickup games ⛹️ Half-court games (4x4) on both sides 💪 Friendly competition in a fun, positive environment 🥇 Open to mixed adults (18+) - whether you’re sharpening your skills or shaking off the rust! 🏀 Players should at least be familiar with basic offence, defence and basketball rules 🏆 Max 20 players per session (spots go fast, so book early) **Important Notes:** 🕔 Sports hall doors open at 5:20pm - head in, get changed and warm up 🏀 We aim to start games by 5:40pm, so please arrive by 5:20pm to be ready 🚫 If you’re feeling unwell or have COVID symptoms, please stay home 💧 Bring your own water bottle 🚨 Please don't arrive TOO early - the hall is used just before us and staff need time to prepare the court. **Getting Here:** 📍 Entrance: Corner of Celebration Avenue and Temple Mills Lane. Google Maps - [https://maps.app.goo.gl/AfCZZzEG734J9gko7](https://maps.app.goo.gl/AfCZZzEG734J9gko7) 🅿️ Parking: Pay-and-display available across the road. 🚇 Nearest Tube Stations: Stratford, Stratford International (DLR) & Leyton **Safety** Participation is at your own risk. If you have any health concerns, consult a health professional before joining. **Rules** 4 x 4 half-court games on 2 half courts, with 4 teams of 5 players. Time: 5-min games (running clock) Scoring: 1s and 2s. Substitutions: One sub rotates in after each game. Fouls: Offence calls fouls. Disputed calls: For major disagreements, challenger shoots a 3-pointer to resolve the issue. See you Sunday! ✌️🏀

🌿 BENFLEET TO HADLEIGH CASTLE & LEIGH-ON-SEA SUMMER COASTAL WALK 🌿 Join us for a beautiful summer adventure exploring one of Essex’s most scenic coastal routes — from the Thames Estuary and peaceful marshlands to the dramatic ruins of Hadleigh Castle, finishing beside the beach at charming Leigh-on-Sea. This walk has all the perfect ingredients for a wonderful day out… estuary views, rolling hills, history, seaside charm, and great company. ✨ Highlights: • Scenic Thames Estuary & Essex marshland views • Tea stop at a unique moored boat café • A fairly steep but rewarding climb to magnificent Hadleigh Castle ruins • Stunning photo opportunities • Coastal paths, beach atmosphere & Leigh-on-Sea charm • Pub lunch/drinks by the sea to finish 🍷🍽️ 🏰 Hadleigh Castle: Built around 1215 by Hubert de Burgh and later extensively fortified by Edward III during the Hundred Years’ War, Hadleigh Castle became a favourite royal residence. Today, its romantic ruins and striking towers overlook the Essex marshes, offering breathtaking views and a fascinating glimpse into England’s past. 📍 MEETING POINT: London Liverpool Street Station ⏰ Meet: 10:30am 🚆 Train: 11:15am to Benfleet (journey approx. 45 mins) 🥾 WALK DETAILS: • Linear walk • Approx. 4.5 miles • Moderate pace • One fairly steep incline 💷 ORGANISER’S FEE: £5 cash on the day 🌞 Come and enjoy a wonderful mix of coast, countryside, history and seaside relaxation — ending with lunch or drinks at a local Leigh-on-Sea pub. A perfect summer escape just outside London. 🌊

Walk length 14miles/22km approx. Circular. A really picturesque circular hike from Saunderton across fields and woods to Booker returning past West Wycombe Hill and Wheeler Common. We will have a snack lunch stop at Booker and optional drinks at the end. THIS IS A SUBSTANTIAL HIKE AND HILLY IN PLACES, PLEASE ENSURE YOU ARE HAPPY WITH THIS. Meeting and Transport, please read... Train from London: The 9.53am train from London Marylebone gets to Saunderton for 10.52am. I suggest you arrive at London Marylebone from 9.20am to give you time to get tickets and any group saves. Please note the organizer will meet you at Saunderton (see photo below). The walk should finish around 5pm but may be slightly earlier or later than this depending on weather ans pace. Meet outside Saunderton station for the hike to start at 11am after the train from London arrives (Saunderton station has no facilities). Car parking should be free. Train is £16 approx. return with a group save or by using a network railcard. Walk Cost: £7 cash on the day organizer fee (For paypal it is 'colin45@hotmail.co.uk' Please send as friends and family to avoid charges. For bank transfer message organizer. Please make a note of the organizers numbers - Colin 07709305681. Walking Safety: Walking is a great way to keep fit and generally very safe; however it does contain an element of risk. Before going on any of these walks you need to be reasonably fit and be prepared to be responsible for your own safety. You should wear appropriate clothing such as proper walking shoes, warm and wet weather clothing and carry sufficient food and water. Please see our Terms and Conditions (http://www.meetup.com/London-Explorers/pages/Terms_and_Conditions/) COULD EVERYONE PLEASE AVOID COMMENTS BELOW THAT ARE NOT SPECIFIC TO THE EVENT AS THIS GENERATES SPAM, JUST CHANGE YOUR RSVP IF YOU CAN'T GO. YOU CAN MESSAGE ME. MANY THANKS.

🏞️ Starting from the beautiful Henley on Thames and going through the English countryside. Henley on Thames is said to be one of the most beautiful towns in England, recently voted by The Times as one of the best places to live in the English countryside. *✊ **Pace & Purpose:** Active Muslims is about focusing on the actual activity. These are **paced walks and hikes (not strolls)**, so please join us with that* ***[active mindset and purpose](https://www.instagram.com/reels/DBhPWpdIMKq/)*** *in mind.* 🟠 **HIKE:** 📏16km (10 miles) 💓 Av. Pace: 5.1km/h 🏔️ Elev. Gain: 273m 🚥 [View Walking/Hiking Levels Here](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPRjEOPjW8B/) 📍 **Meet: \*** **London Paddington Rail Station (you can meet others here if traveling by rail from London ) or Meet the organiser directly outside Henley-on-Thames station at 15:00** 🔄 Starts/Ends: **Henley-on-Thames Station** ⌚Meet from 13:20 (if travelling from Paddington Station), the train leaves at **13:38** \[Arrives 14:27 \| With one change at Twydford at 14:15 \| Return train estimate: 19:00 or 20:00\] **\*** **PLEASE NOTE: The orgaiser will meet you direclty outside Henley-on Thames station.This hike is later than usual due to the Spartan event being held nearby. We aim to start the hike around 15:00. It is possible the host may be delayed due to the previous event!** 🚆 Travel & Tickets All our regular walks & hikes are free to join. You are welcome to arrange your own travel or meet us at the destination station. ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ **Buy Your Own Ticket** We recommend buying on the day. Use a Network Railcard or a GroupSave discount where possible. ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ 🚻 Paddington (near platform 12), Twyford Station, Henley on Thames and on first train. **🎒 Essentials:** **Gear:** Appropriate Footwear **Food/Water**: Packed lunch, snacks, and water. **Tech:** Fully charged phone **Prayer:** If you are praying, please ensure you have wudu beforehand. **📋 Attendance Policy:** When an event has a waiting list, priority is given to new joiners and those with a reliable attendance record - *previous "No-Shows" may be moved to the waitlist to ensure spots go to reliable attendees [[why it matters](https://tinyurl.com/28sh83cn)]* ⛑️ **Disclaimer:** are solely responsible for your own safety on these events and have the fitness level required for it. That you do not require special attention, medication or additional care. You are also responsible for your belonging at all times. 🚦 **[Walk/Hike Levels:](https://www.instagram.com/share/reel/BBxV4zomeZ)** 🟢 Easy 🟡 Average 🟠 Moderate 🔴 Challenging ⚫ Very Challenging **Follow us for updates: 🌐** [@Active.Muslims](https://www.instagram.com/active.muslims)

Have you ever wanted to partake in hikes where you get exposed to new areas with luscious forms of nature, some amazing views and possibly some hidden gems? If so, this may be the right event for you. Welcome to another Hiking event where all of this is possible. This is the opportunity to form friendships, discover a different perspective of London, improve your fitness, embrace nature but also feel great about yourself. With this particular Hike, we’ll be hiking from Falconwood to Grove Park. We’ll be traversing through many nature pathways and parks but also make new discoveries too. This is also part of the capital ring which is a 78 mile pathway split into 15 hiking routes. This is section 2. If you want to be part of the journey, feel free to join us. My fellow explorers, if you enjoyed the event, I’m more than happy to accept any donations which of course are optional but will go a long way to help me unlock and deliver even more exciting and engaging events and resources: https://www.paypal.me/calvinjoy Starting point: Falconwood Station Ending point: Grove Park station Walking length: 6.9km Duration: 2 hours Required clothing: Smart casual, comfortable shoes and a jacket in case it gets cold
Departure: 20 minutes after the meeting time. WHAT - Hike WHERE - Falconwood to Grove Park WHEN - 2pm - 5pm MEETING POINT - Outside Falconwood Station NEAREST STATION - Falconwood station REQUIREMENTS - Just your good behaviour is all and whatever is listed above for the walk. Disclaimers: Please be on your best behaviour and respect one another. This group doesn’t tolerate any misbehaviour and misconduct. Should such a thing take place, you will be removed. If you ask a question that either already has the answer to it or doesn’t relate to the event at all, I won’t respond. Whenever an event takes place, I will cut off contact 20 minutes after the event commences. If you message even 1 minute after the cut off time, I won’t be available as I’m conducting the event. There will be photography and videography by myself so if you are photo conscious and/or do not want to be in the video, do kindly inform me and I’ll try my utmost best to not involve you in the picture. Let’s all be responsible but please be aware you come at your own risk. Do be mindful of your possessions, belongings and most importantly, your safety. The ‘London society of explorers’ accept no risk of liability at this event.

**🌳 Large Group Social Hike** One of our **bigger, more sociable** hikes. Prefer a smaller group? See our standard-size hikes. 📏 **Key Info:** • Distance: 14 miles (22km) • Grading: [Intermediate/Challenging](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/HikeGradings.pdf) • Ascent: 580m • Hiking time: 5.5 to 6.5 hours • Cost: £33 (includes guided hike + return train) • Refunds: Payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. If you follow our [[Resale Process](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf)] and your place is rebooked, we’ll issue a refund. • Toilet Breaks: On the train, at the mid-afternoon stop, and at the end pub 📍 **Meeting Point** • Location: Victoria station. Meet between WHSmith (no 34) and Nero Express (no 29) - [MAP](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/Victoria.jpg) & [PHOTO](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/VictoriaPhoto.jpg) • Time: Meet 8:10am, leave 8:30am for the 8:46am train • Return: 7:34pm arrival back in London (you’re committed until then) 🌟 **Highlights** • Hike the **most spectacular coastal trail in Southern England** — the famous Seven Sisters • A great physical challenge with options to self shorten if needed • Enjoy **breathtaking cliff-top views** for much of the hike • Pass **Birling Gap** and the iconic **Belle Tout Lighthouse** • Finish in **Eastbourne — England’s sunniest town** • Explore the **South Downs National Park** — the newest in the UK 🥾 **Hike Description** This is Outdooraholics’ most popular hike, a dramatic and exhilarating journey across the chalk cliffs of Sussex that we have been leading for over 12 years. The **Seven Sisters** are a spectacular series of gleaming white chalk cliffs shaped over thousands of years by natural erosion processes. Erosion has since created an “eighth sister,” and today the cliffs stand as one of England’s most iconic landscapes. We begin in the coastal town of **Seaford**, home to a Napoleonic-era **Martello Tower** built in 1810 as part of a chain of 103 coastal defences against French invasion. From here, the trail climbs onto the cliff tops, where for much of the day we walk high above the sea, treated to endless coastal views and fresh sea air. Our route follows the **South Downs Way**, passing through **Birling Gap** and past the striking **Belle Tout Lighthouse**, famously moved 17 metres inland in 1999 to save it from falling into the sea. The final highlight is **Beachy Head**, a dramatic beauty spot with sheer chalk cliffs dropping into the sea below. We finish in **Eastbourne**, statistically England’s sunniest town, where we celebrate our coastal adventure with refreshments in a local pub. 🧭 **Guide:** • Leader: [GRAHAM](https://www.outdooraholics.co.uk/MeetTheOutdooraholics.pdf) • Contact (hike day only): 07796 098487 🍽️ **Food:** • Bring a packed lunch • Pub visit after the hike (drinks optional) 🎒**What to Bring** • Hiking boots/shoes • Water (2 litres minimum) • Packed lunch • Waterproofs (jacket and trousers) • Hat and gloves if cold • Train tickets are arranged – just meet us at the meeting point ⚠️ **Safety** Your guide is a trained hike leader and Outdoor Activity First Aider ❓ **Want to Know More?** • [New to Our Trips?](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/new_to_our_day_hikes.pdf) (perfect for first-timers, answers “what to expect”) • [About Us](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/about_us.pdf) (who Outdooraholics are, credibility, history) • [FAQs](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf) (covers common queries) 📲 **Explore More &** **Stay Connected** [Day hikes list](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/hikesbygrade.pdf) 👣 [Calendar - All trips](https://www.meetup.com/outdooraholics/events/calendar/) 📖 [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/outdooraholics/) 📸 [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/Outdooraholics) & [Photos group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/Outdooraholics) 📄 **Terms and Conditions** By signing up or attending you agree to our [Terms and Conditions](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/TermsConditionsOutdooraholicsHikingUK.pdf) **Cliffs – danger** There are sheer drops off the cliffs and some of these soft chalk cliffs are crumbling at the edges with chunks regularly falling and no fencing in place. Please keep at least 3 metres away from the edges. If you fall, or the ground at the edge of the cliff collapses it will almost certainly be fatal. © Outdooraholics Hiking UK Ltd 2026 E & OE

The days are getting longer and the weather is finally warming up - the perfect time to get out on your bike! We’re teaming up with Hornchurch Cycling Club again this year and are offering an amazing medal to those who enter early. Join us for the Tour Essex Sportive on Sunday the 17th of May, starting and finishing at Redbridge Cycling Centre. Ride the same roads as Stage 3 of the 2014 Tour de France and enjoy the stunning Essex countryside with a choice of 110, 72, or 42-mile routes. \- Smooth\, scenic roads 
- 3 amazing feed stops (sweet & savoury treats you won't find elsewhere)
 \- Fully signed routes with mechanical support & chip timing Whether you're riding for a challenge or a great day out, this is the sportive for you. Book your place now and secure your medal at [www.sportiveuk.co.uk](http://www.sportiveuk.co.uk/) See you there! Jeremy & Luke
 SportiveUK

Join **TeamMC** for our *London to Oxford Bike Ride 2026* — an inspiring challenge that combines fitness, fun, and fundraising for a powerful cause. Every mile you cycle will help provide vital support for **struggling families in Palestine, South Asia, and East Africa** — helping them access food, healthcare, and essential aid. **REGISTRATION MANDATORY** Link: [https://register.enthuse.com/ps/event/London2Oxford](https://register.enthuse.com/ps/event/London2Oxford) **Registration Fee:** £25 **Fundraising Target:** £200 **Distance:** 100km (≈ 60 miles) **Elevation:** 700m **Start Time:** 8:00 AM **Start Location:** TEAMMC Cycles, London E1 **Finish Location:** Oxford Central Mosque **All participants will receive:** * Finisher’s Medal ✅ * Food and refreshments at the finish line ✅ * Support vehicle with drinks and snacks along the route ✅ * Transport for you *and your bike* back to London ✅

The days are getting longer and the weather is finally warming up - the perfect time to get out on your bike! We’re teaming up with Hornchurch Cycling Club again this year and are offering an amazing medal to those who enter early. Join us for the Tour Essex Sportive on Sunday the 17th of May, starting and finishing at Redbridge Cycling Centre. Ride the same roads as Stage 3 of the 2014 Tour de France and enjoy the stunning Essex countryside with a choice of 110, 72, or 42-mile routes. \- Smooth\, scenic roads 
- 3 amazing feed stops (sweet & savoury treats you won't find elsewhere)
 \- Fully signed routes with mechanical support & chip timing Whether you're riding for a challenge or a great day out, this is the sportive for you. Book your place now and secure your medal at [www.sportiveuk.co.uk](http://www.sportiveuk.co.uk/) See you there! Jeremy & Luke
 SportiveUK

Hi ladies. We will meet in front of the Nature Center and head to the two Observation decks. We will then hike Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook and Sugarbush trails to get approximately four miles total distance. We will walk approximately a 18 minute mile pace. Please wear appropriate hiking shoes.

Join the CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group for a dynamic afternoon of B2B networking! This event is perfect for professionals looking to expand their business connections, share insights, and foster collaboration within the community. Whether you are a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this event offers a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas, build relationships, and grow your network in a supportive environment. Connect with like-minded individuals, explore potential partnerships, and discover new opportunities for professional growth. Don't miss out on this chance to enhance your business network and take your career to the next level with CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group! We meet the 4th Monday of every month from 11am-1pm. Welcome and general networking from 11am - 11:30am with core meeting 11;30 - 12:30 and a final round of networking from 12:30 - 1pm.

[The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations. If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!). **HOW IT WORKS** **Step 1: Bring a topic** Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event. **Step 2: Circle up & share** We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds. **Step 3: Walk, talk & float** We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!" **Step 4: Feel more alive** Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times. *For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)* **HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC** A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about. Recent topics include: * "What are you passionate about right now?" * "What makes a good friend?" * "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?" * "How do you want to be remembered?" * "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?" Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter. **WHAT TO EXPECT** This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.* But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here. **FAQ** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space. * Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know. * Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **LOGISTICS** * If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs. * There's a restroom along the route at [Tuttle Park Community Center](https://maps.app.goo.gl/KTZJgLE1CrrbRNmJ7), which is about two‑thirds of the way from [Clinton-Como Park](https://maps.app.goo.gl/z8Cx8evwLiWundMe8) to our [turnback point](https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZXk7qUVszLQ8EJxHA). * Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details. * If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋 **IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...** [The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up. * This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).

**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.

CONNECTED – Grove City A casual, people-first networking gathering. CONNECTED – Grove City is a casual, people-first networking gathering. Join us for a relaxed, low-pressure space to meet new people, build real relationships, and have meaningful conversations — no sales pitches required. From 7:30–8:30 AM every 3rd Wednesday of the month at the Grove City Business Center. Coffee & baked goods available for purchase at Pick ’Em Up Joe's. Free street & public lot parking behind the building. Free to attend & open to all!

We'll get in around 4 miles at Three Creeks Metro Parks, primarily natural trails. 17-18 minute miles, no one left behind, and faster walkers are free to lead out. Optional lunch after! If you're joining for hiking all the metro parks, this is the sixth one!