Wilderness Hiking

RESCHEDULED DUE TO RAIN. This is a moderate circuit hike of 7.6 miles with 1320 feet of elevation gain on trails rich in both history and scenery. Adventuring's very first hike occurred 47 years ago this month, as our Founders ventured out in 1979 to Hoover Camp in the heart of Virginia's Shenandoah National Park. It's an exceptionally scenic spot, where two modest streams (Mill Prong and Laurel Prong) merge to create the Rapidan River. Hoover Camp was originally built by President and Mrs. Herbert Hoover as a mountain hideaway and fishing retreat, a precursor to today's Camp David. Though many of the original structures have disappeared, the President's House (a.k.a. the Brown House) and the Prime Minister's Cabin survive to this day. Our hike will begin at Milam Gap, just south of Big Meadows. We'll have one stream crossing at Big Rock Falls before we reach Hoover Camp, where we'll lunch on or near the porch of the Brown House and then explore the rest of the site. Our return route will first use the Laurel Prong Trail and then the Cat Knob Trail to reach the Appalachian Trail, which will take us back to our cars at Milam Gap. We will decide at the end of the hike whether to enjoy refreshments at the charming New Market Taproom in Big Meadows Lodge or somewhere on the drive home. Total length of this moderate circuit hike will be 7.6 miles with 1320 feet of elevation gain on the return leg. Bring plenty of beverages, lunch, sunscreen, sturdy boots, and $5 for the Adventuring trip fee. On the way to the hike, we'll stop at Sheetz in Warrenton so folks can pick up snacks or lunch. Carpool passengers should pay their drivers $20 (assuming each car has at least one rider with a Park Pass, which is usually the case). Meet at 8:30 a.m. on Sunday morning May 24 in the Kiss & Ride Lot of the East Falls Church Metro Station at North Sycamore and 19th Streets, to your right as Metro riders leave the station's only exit. NEW! Please [click here](https://adventuringlgbtq.com/Adventuring_Release_Form.pdf) to review our release form. When you RSVP to an event, you affirm that you have read and agree to the terms of the release.

This hike will **NOT** be the famous (?) Billy Goat A rock-scramble, but an exploration of the woodland trails on the Maryland side of the Potomac. Trails used will include a short section of the Berma Road and the Valley, Gold Mine, and Ford Mine trails and a portion of the C & O Canal Towpath, plus a side trip to view the Falls from the Maryland side. No rock scrambles or steep hills. Just a walk in the Park. Estimated 5 to 7 miles total. The photo above is **not** along the trails we will use. **Please plan to arrive a bit early if you have not been to the Maryland side to hike. This Park has an entry fee, but a Great Falls or a National Park annual pass will get you in at no cost.** Exit from the Beltway onto the Clara Barton Parkway west (up-river) towards Potomac, MD. Turn left when it ends at MacArthur Blvd and follow that road about 5 miles to the Park entrance. I can take 3-4 passengers from my house in Herndon if anyone wishes to save the drive. Text any questions to 703 401-5399.

**[The Mountain Club of Maryland](https://www.mcomd.org/)** will once again hike the AT starting at Pen Mar (MD/PA line) to Harpers Ferry in one day (Saturday May 23, 2026). The distance is about 41 miles over rocky and rough trails with several significant climbs. **Serious Hikers:** This hike is intended for the serious hiker who has done three or more hikes of 15 miles or more. At a bare minimum, hikers should be able to hike at a rate of 2.5 to 3 miles an hour for 14 hours over mountainous terrain. **Checkpoints:** There are 9 checkpoints along the way providing water/Gatorade and snacks to the hikers, including lunch food at the Washington Monument checkpoint which is the halfway mark (21 miles). **Camp Round Meadow**: Stay the night of May 22nd at the Catoctin Mountain Park, Camp Round Meadow ([https://www.nps.gov/cato/planyourvisit/camp-round-meadow.htm](https://www.google.com/url?q=https://nam02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.nps.gov%252Fcato%252Fplanyourvisit%252Fcamp-round-meadow.htm%26data%3D05%257C02%257Ccommscoordinator%2540patc.net%257C4cc96f4f25e144d8abe508de89452bd1%257C8b963a7d5a8641d0b3b2c86aae93f582%257C0%257C0%257C639099127380906758%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata%3DzHAaA2LtIAsW8TA8kslO5FdbqhGtHhRBqz5pytTFimI%253D%26reserved%3D0&sa=D&source=calendar&usd=2&usg=AOvVaw2cXjHIhp5XxlXIlr3aUQ4d)). Cost is included in the registration fee which is $60.00 plus fees. **More Information/Registration:** For more information about the HAM and/or to register please visit [https://2026HAM.eventbrite.com](https://www.google.com/url?q=https://nam02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252F2026ham.eventbrite.com%252F%26data%3D05%257C02%257Ccommscoordinator%2540patc.net%257C4cc96f4f25e144d8abe508de89452bd1%257C8b963a7d5a8641d0b3b2c86aae93f582%257C0%257C0%257C639099127380916036%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata%3DrREvlpfhIdUtcsDIOkDmw19gA0GQEt%252BnxlZ5aYRpNMk%253D%26reserved%3D0&sa=D&source=calendar&usd=2&usg=AOvVaw2nozGm_zDX2xllBu-ICDJF).

🔥 60-Minute Full-Body Circuit Training Workout ⏱️ Structure Overview We will meet at the volleyball court in Founders Park in Alexandria, VA Warm-up: 10 minutes Main Circuits: 40 minutes Finisher: 5 minutes Cool-down: 5 minutes 🟢 1. Dynamic Warm-Up (10 Minutes) Perform continuously, 30–45 seconds each: Jumping jacks Bodyweight squats Arm circles (forward/backward) Walking lunges Inch-worm walkouts High knees Glute bridges Push-ups (easy pace) Goal: Increase heart rate + activate major muscle groups. 🏋️ Main Workout (40 Minutes) Format: 3 Circuits 4 exercises per circuit 40 seconds work / 20 seconds rest Repeat each circuit 3 times before moving on Rest as long as you want between circuits Cool down 5 Min IMPORTANT!!!!! Liability statement: I understand that I am responsible for exercising at my own pace and within my own physical limits, and for monitoring my condition during participation. I voluntarily assume all risks associated with my participation and agree that I attend entirely at my own risk. I hereby release and hold harmless the organizer, and affiliated parties from any and all liability, claims, or demands arising out of or related to any injury, medical condition, loss, or damage that may occur as a result of my participation.

Join us for an evening meditation hike. This is part of a series of unique walking programs focused on methods to tap into your own quiet space. Learn to unwind from your day and listen to the sounds of nature, silence, and your inner wisdom as we take a peaceful walk through the park. Learn a simple yet powerful way to meditate and commune with nature to invigorate your mind, body, and spirit. Each session consists of: * A Pre-walk "Intro to Meditation" to prepare you for the walk with suggested mediation techniques to use (from 6:30-6:45PM) * Walking in silence along the paths (approximately two miles from 6:45 – 8:15PM, with a brief break) * A Post-walk reflection to journal and time for sharing (from 8:15 – 8:30PM) Cost is $10 This is a rain or shine event. I'll See YOU on the Trail! Marcia Fairweather 301-352-5272 7 Days to live everyday as a Wellness Day (http://www.renewandrecharge.com/7daystowellness/signupforteleconference.html) Visit us online at www.frescoadventure.com (http://www.frescoadventure.com/) Live Life as an adventure! Details for Hiking Adventures Please review the information below and call if you have any additional questions. If you need to make changes in your attendance, please call before 3PM on the program date. Always leave a number for me to contact you so that I may call you back if needed. *** WHAT TO WEAR: * Comfortable, well-broken-in, sturdy walking shoes or ankle-high boots. * Protective clothing should include: * Long comfortable loose fitting pants * A cotton blend shirt provides for better perspiration and comfort * Dress in layers for warmth and comfort *** WHAT TO BRING: * Water canteen or bottle filled with water (at least 1 quart, bring what you feel you can carry or need to drink) * A journal or pad of paper to record your thoughts *** WHERE TO MEET: McDonalds at 4130 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC You may arrive by metro (Red line) on the Tenely exit and walk a few blocks down the street on Wisconsin Avenue. We will end closer to the Van Ness metro stop, so if you drive and park near the meeting location, you will need to walk a few blocks to return. Be onsite by 6:15PM to sign-in. We will begin the program promptly at 6:30PM, so please be on time. IMPORTANT: Your registration and RSVP to his program assumes the following Acknowledgement of Risks, Responsibility, and Release of Liability Fresco Adventures, a program of Fresco Enterprises, LLC is the sponsor of arrangements for this activity and is not responsible for any damage, loss, injury, or accident due to any act by the participants. Note: There are elements of risk in any activity associated with the outdoors and the use of any related equipment. Although precautions are taken to provide proper organization and suitable equipment so that you have a safe and enjoyable experience, there can be no guarantee of absolute safety against injury and accident. Acknowledgement of Risks, Responsibility and Release: I recognize the apparent risks of this activity which I and any minor children for which I am responsible, will engage in and confirm that I am mentally and physically capable of participating in the activity. I participate willingly and voluntarily, and I assume full responsibility for any personal injury. I hereby release Fresco Enterprises, LLC, its principals, agents, or volunteers from all liability and waive any claim for damage arising from any cause whatsoever.

Join us for a **scenic, social hike at Rock Creek Park** as we explore the "Southern Loop," starting from the Nature Center. Starting at the **Nature Center**, the "Southern Loop via Western Ridge Trail, Rock Creek, and Valley Trail" is a well-loved route. With over 2,700 glowing reviews on AllTrails, it offers beautiful scenery, well-maintained paths, and a refreshing escape close to the city. This **easy hike** winds through lush forested trails, showcasing the beauty of Rock Creek Park. While the trail is mostly straightforward, please note that sections may be **slippery**, so wear sturdy, grippy shoes. To learn more about the trail, click the link in the **Trail Map section below**. Get ready for fresh air, great conversations, and plenty of scenic moments! This hike is perfect for all levels, so bring your good vibes and let’s hit the trail together! **Meeting Time & Location:** Meet us at 9:30 AM at the **Rock Creek Park Nature Center,** located at 5200 Glover Rd NW, Washington, DC 20015. There’s plenty of parking available at the Nature Center. We’ll gather right in front of the building to start the hike. **Distance:** 5.6 miles **Elevation Gain:** 685 feet **Difficulty:** Moderate Walk/Hike This hike is a moderate walk with natural trails and a few gentle inclines to get your heart rate up. The terrain includes some uneven sections, and the fallen leaves can make it a bit slippery in spots. With sturdy footwear, it’s an enjoyable and accessible hike for most levels. **Estimated Duration** This hike is expected to take approximately 2.5 hours. **Pace:** Moderate Pace We'll walk a steady, comfortable pace that’s manageable for most hikers with a reasonable fitness level. Breaks are regular but not overly frequent, allowing for a balanced experience of exercise and enjoyment. **Parking** Ample parking is available at the Rock Creek Park Nature Center, with additional overflow parking located across the street. **Trail Map (AllTrails)** [Rock Creek Park - Southern Loop](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/rock-creek-park-nature-center-a2f0474?u=i&sh=ylk43q) With over 2,700 reviews on AllTrails, this popular route offers insights into the trail’s conditions and highlights. Click the link above to learn more and prepare for your hike! **Restrooms** Restrooms are available at the Nature Center, our meeting point at the start of the hike. They open at 9:00 AM. Additionally, there are restrooms approximately 1 hour into the hike, where we’ll take a brief break. **Dog Attendance** For everyone’s comfort and enjoyment, we kindly ask that you leave your dogs at home for this hike. Thank you for understanding! **Lunch After the Hike** After the hike, join us for an optional lunch at **Pete’s New Haven Style Apizza** (4940 Wisconsin Ave. NW), an affordable, counter-service spot just a 10 minute drive away. They serve New England-style pizza, pastas, salads, antipasti, and local brews—something for everyone!

*You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, [https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf](https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf) and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "I accept" to be permitted on the hike.* (Nature/exercise hike up to 8ish miles on largely flat dirt trails.) MULBERRIES. THOUSANDS OF what is arguably the YUMMIEST OF OUR NATIVE BERRIES! Come to the National Colonial Farm at Piscataway Park to pick some to eat yourself along our hike and possibly to entice some hungry goats with delish mulberry leaves. They are just some of the human-loving colonial-era farm animals that dwell along the Potomac River. (I expect that it should be peak mulberry season.) There are TWO PARTS to this MYSTERY HIKE. The main mystery is how far we will go, depending on hikers' desires and what we'll find along the way, and we'll visit some trails that haven't been recently scouted. FIRST: a foray with multiple stops around the farm and along the Potomac River to taste some native red and non-native white mulberries, eyeball birds and critters chowing down on the sugar-sweet berries, to meet colonial-era farm animals (such as sassy Hog Island sheep, awesome Ossabaw hogs, and perky turkeys), and to ogle the views of Mt. Vernon, across the river. (This protected National Park Service property exists to protect the views from Mt. Vernon!) We'll hike at a 2.5 to 3-mile an hour pace while moving, but we'll DAWDLE A LOT to enjoy the other birds (such as sunflower-yellow prothonotary warblers and blindingly blue indigo buntings), skinks, lichens, and anything else that we stumble upon. PART TWO is optional. We'll hike as close as we can get to Mockley Point, a farther-flung part of the park at a pace of around 3 mph with fewer stops. Near the river we'll dally a bit more to enjoy the views before returning to the start. \**\*MUST-READ/IMPORTANT NOTES:* The end time is just for planning purposes. We'll likely end earlier, especially if you only attend the first part of the hike. Adults only. No pets, not even pet prothonotary warblers. Heavy rain cancels. Some of our route has NOT been scouted recently. The water in the restrooms may not be potable so bring plenty of your own water to drink and enough to wash off your mulberries. We can only pick roughly a pint of berries each so if you bring a container, keep it small! **WEATHER POLICY:** Heavy rain cancels. Forecast will be posted here by 5 p.m. on Saturday. **MEET 10 am, VISITORS CENTER, NATIONAL COLONIAL FARM / PISCATAWAY PARK:** [3400 Bryan Point Rd., Accokeek MD](https://maps.app.goo.gl/FVn2MpjwBEgzvsyQ7) [https://www.nps.gov/pisc/planyourvisit/ncf.htm](https://www.nps.gov/pisc/planyourvisit/ncf.htm) USE THIS GPS: 38.694773, -77.065278 . Park in dirt parking lot on the RIGHT, not at the farm buildings. Walk toward the river for the visitor center. It's NOT the building in the parking lot. [https://maps.app.goo.gl/L5ryrJdoGXtv6bGC7](https://maps.app.goo.gl/L5ryrJdoGXtv6bGC7) **BRING:** Mandatory water, sense of awe, and sense of humor, snack/lunch. Optional: hat, sunblock, bug spray, container and ice chest for your berries, fully-charged cell phone, and camera. (Long lenses also welcome.) On the Mockley Point leg, we may hike on one or two trails that haven't been mowed enough so long pants are recommended. (The leader will wear shorts though.) Binoculars or camera are also recommended. **RESTROOMS:** At start.

**Lake Artemesia Walk – College Park** Join us for a relaxed, easy-paced walk around beautiful Lake Artemesia. A chance to unwind, enjoy nature, and connect with others in a calm, welcoming setting. We’ll walk the scenic loop, take in the lake views, and enjoy light conversation along the way. All fitness levels are welcome. **Main parking lot:** **55th Ave & Berwyn Rd** College Park, MD 20740 Bring plenty of water, whatever you need for your hike, and your awesome authentic self. Keep it easygoing. RELEASE OF LIABILITY & ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT: By being a member of this Group, RSVPing to any Activity, or participating in any Activity, You accept and agree to the terms and conditions described below: 1. You acknowledge that hiking in nature carries the risk of potential harm to yourself, including the risk of injuries such as broken bones or muscle/tendon injuries, illness, disability, or death. 2. You agree that You will at all times be responsible for Yourself and Your own safety. 3. You release and hold harmless with respect to all injury, disability, death, or loss of property, whether caused by negligence or otherwise, this group's leadership and members for the hikes that you participate in. 4. You acknowledge and agree that this Group is merely a collection of friends or potential friends who enjoy doing activities, and that in no event does any Organizer or Other Member assume any responsibility or liability for You. 5\. You agree not to sue and to release\, discharge\, waive and hold harmless all organizers and other members from and against all liabilities\, claims\, demands\, losses\, damages\, suits and proceedings\, for negligence\, carelessness or any other cause which you may have or that hereafter may accrue arising\, resulting from or related to your membership in this group or participation in any activity\.

A Communion With Your Inner Self Unwind from your day and listen to the sounds of nature, silence, and your inner wisdom as we take peaceful walks through local parks and central downtown DC locations. Learn a simple yet powerful way to meditate by "walking with yourself" through silence. Let this commune with nature invigorate your mind, body, and spirit. This is a series of four hikes along various trails in Washington, DC. Each session consists of: * A Pre-walk "Intro to Meditation" to prepare you for the walk with suggested mediation techniques to use * Walking in silence along the paths * A Post-walk reflection and time for sharing The evening program is from 6:30-8:30PM at the following locations around the Washington DC area: Saturday, May 23: Glover Archibald Park Sunday, June 7: Circles of Washington, DC featuring local historical sites Saturday, August 8: C&O Canal in Georgetown Saturday, September 12: Soapstone Valley North Trail Cost is $25 for the entire series. Come to participate and learn all about how you can use meditation techniques to enhance your life. This is a rain or shine event. I'll See YOU on the Trail! Marcia Fairweather 301-352-5272 Visit us online at www.frescoadventure.com (http://www.frescoadventure.com/) Details for Hiking Adventures Please review the information below and call if you have any additional questions. If you need to make changes in your attendance, please call before 3PM on the program date. Always leave a number for me to contact you so that I may call you back if needed. *** WHAT TO WEAR: * Comfortable, well-broken-in, sturdy walking shoes or ankle-high boots. * Protective clothing should include: * Long comfortable loose fitting pants * A cotton blend shirt provides for better perspiration and comfort * Dress in layers for warmth and comfort *** WHAT TO BRING: * Water canteen or bottle filled with water (at least 1 quart, bring what you feel you can carry or need to drink) * A journal or pad of paper to record your thoughts *** WHERE TO MEET (check out the map details on each meetup for each date): **Saturday, May 23:** Glover Archibald Park into Georgetown, meet at the McDonald's at 4130 Wisconsin Ave. NW **Sunday, June 7:** Circles of Washington, DC featuring local historical sites. Meet outside of the Smithsonian Metro on the Mall **Saturday, August 8:** C&O Canal in Georgetown, meet at 23rd and K St. at the circle on Pennsylvania Ave. **Saturday, September 12:** Soapstone Valley Trail, meet at Starbucks outside of the Van Ness Metro station on Connecticut Ave. IMPORTANT: Your registration and RSVP to his program assumes the following Acknowledgement of Risks, Responsibility, and Release of Liability Fresco Adventures, a program of Fresco Enterprises, LLC is the sponsor of arrangements for this activity and is not responsible for any damage, loss, injury, or accident due to any act by the participants. Note: There are elements of risk in any activity associated with the outdoors and the use of any related equipment. Although precautions are taken to provide proper organization and suitable equipment so that you have a safe and enjoyable experience, there can be no guarantee of absolute safety against injury and accident. Acknowledgement of Risks, Responsibility and Release: I recognize the apparent risks of this activity which I and any minor children for which I am responsible, will engage in and confirm that I am mentally and physically capable of participating in the activity. I participate willingly and voluntarily, and I assume full responsibility for any personal injury. I hereby release Fresco Enterprises, LLC, its principals, agents, or volunteers from all liability and waive any claim for damage arising from any cause whatsoever.

Please note; during the warmer months, especially on the weekends, this park charges a fee to enter. It's $3 for in-state, & $5 for out of state license plates. Also, the drive down River Road to the Orange Grove parking lot can take up to 10 minutes if the park is crowded. Please leave yourself enough time to get there. **Another important factor to consider is that May 24 is the Sunday of Memorial Day Weekend. If the parking lot is full, we might have to switch to a different trail for those who are still interested in hiking with us that day, even if the plans have to change due to overcrowding.** We will meet between 2:15 pm & 2:30 pm. We will start as close to 2:30 pm as possible. **If the weather turns out to be unpleasant in the morning**, we will push this hike off by a few hours, weather permitting, but we want to try to keep it on the same day. **If the parking lot is full**, we will change parking / hiking locations (the Note at the end has my alternative trail idea) or we can try for a later time that day. Adam & I will do our best to get there around 2 pm so that we can assess the parking situation & reach out to people that are on their way, if we need to adjust our plans for the day. If people would like to leave a comment about their preference, it might save us time on the day of the hike, in case we need to change plans on the fly. This hike will be a 3 mile loop. Our journey will begin by crossing the swinging bridge from River Road to the Grist Mill trail (where we ended last time.) When we reach the end of the Grist Mill Trail, there is another bridge; the Grist Mill Walking Bridge, very appropriately named. That bridge is not as long or wobbly (in my opinion) as the swinging bridge & has more wood slats down & more "side paneling". From there we will walk along a narrow trail next to the road (inside of the guard rail) & make our way over to the Bloede Dam Trail. ***The Bloede Dam & River Road Trails start pretty high up & have a few rocks that we needed to walk around or climb over. If you are afraid of heights, please reconsider hiking with us on this trail. We are always glad to have anyone join us, but we do not wish for anyone to have a panic attack while out on a trail.*** This will lead us back down the other side of the Patapsco River to the River Road Trail where we will eventually reach the parking lot where we started. Below is the AllTrails link for the scouted path we did this past Sunday. https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/evening-hike-2139875?u=i&sh=c68rvg As always, come prepared for the weather, bring some form of hydration, any hiking supplies you need, and some good topics for conversation! See you all there! NOTE: I found this trail on AllTrails, which is only a 13 minute drive from the Patapsco Avalon area. I believe that I have hiked it before with Abdullah, but I might not have time to scout it again before the day of the hike. The good thing about having this as an alternative hiking option is that there are 3 different parking lots which all lead right onto the same loop in different locations! https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/maryland/rockburn-pain-cave-iskills-and-nu-trail-loop?u=i&sh=c68rvg

**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.

This is a small but pretty park with a 1.7-mile loop. We will walk it 2 times. It goes along a ridge and has moderate elevation changes.

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.

Hi ladies. Let's hike the edward thomas trail, lake trail , spring creek and a short walk on the multi purpose trail. This is one large loop . Wear your shoe of choice. Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area. 4.2 miles in length .

Hi ladies. Let's hike the Edward Thomas, Spring Creek, and a little multi-purpose trail - approximately 4 miles so please wear your shoe of choice. Please bring a water bottle as needed and appropriate shoes. Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area.

June 17, 2026: Worthington Library. Wild Ohio: The Best of Our Natural Heritage. Jim McCormac. Worthington, Ohio. 7 pm.