Wilderness Hiking

-Outdoor Functional Training for All Fitness Levels- Join us as we combine healthy, balanced movement with fun, gamified ideas to give you our unique FUNctional training! And in case that doesn’t really tell you what to expect, just think short intervals of exercise combined together in a playful and interactive way to help you strengthen your body in a sustainable way while allowing you to meet new people (and often even forget how hard you’re working out). As a reminder for those nervous about their fitness level: Everything we do, we do with all fitness levels in mind; so the exercises are always adjustable to your level and you’re always strongly encouraged to take it at your own pace - I mean, we’re not called My Pace for nothing! How to find us: We meet and train behind the calisthenics workout station on the Zirkuswiese of the Prater. Here a link to the location on Google maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/QdRPEaYTiavZbmVW7 Cost: In the interest of inclusivity, we've decided to make our sessions donations based here, so you're invited to pay what you can afford. If that actually makes you more uncomfortable and doesn't make it easier to come, know that we've received donations from €2 to €20 and they all made us very happy, because our primary goal is to get people moving and to show them it can be fun all in all. The money is secondary. One other thing that’s useful to know: - In the case of bad weather, we do have a back-up location that will protect us from the rain. Should we need to move, we will change the location of this event here. Please feel free to check back here before any event where you suspect bad weather or, even better, simply get in touch with us! We’re available via WhatsApp message or email. --- If you'd like to know more about My Pace, feel free to visit our website at https://www.mypace.at

We meet up to do comfort zone challenges in the streets of Vienna. Our goal is that everyone goes home having had experiences out of their comfort zone. ​​Most important things first: * ​You should speak either German or English to join. * ​​We're coordinating before, during and after the meetup in our "Social Adventures in Vienna" Telegram group, join it here: [https://t.me/czc_vienna](https://t.me/czc_vienna) * ​​Check out our Instagram to see pictures from previous meetups: [https://www.instagram.com/improv_czc/](https://www.instagram.com/improv_czc/) ​​Experience the fun to get out of your comfort zone, to grow beyond your expectations and to surprise yourself! Join the event to experience how easy it can be to be thrown in new situations! ​​What will we do? * ​​Introduction into the "comfort zone challenge" * ​​Introducing ourselves and our goals for this meetup * ​​Deciding on the groups & challenges * ​​(Optional) group-warm-up * ​​Doing the challenges in group of 3-4 * ​​Reflection: Meeting in a bar to reflect and have a drink ​​Be aware that consuming alcohol is discouraged until reflection. Also make sure you have enough time to attend the event until the end, since the reflection is an important part of the process and a good chance to let the other participants learn from your experience. ​--- ​Wir treffen uns um Comfort Zone Challenges in den Straßen von Wien zu machen! Unser Ziel ist es dass jede/r nach Hause geht mit dem Erlebnis, aus seiner/ihrer Komfortzone gegangen zu sein.

Herzlich Willkommen zu unserem kostenlosen Meditations Kurs! Einstieg ist jederzeit möglich, geeignet für Anfänger als auch Fortgeschrittene. Hier werden dir Grundlagen und Wissen von Sahaja Yoga-Meditation vorgestellt: speziell über Kundalini, Energiezentren, subtile Kanäle in und einfache Techniken, die unterstützend auf unser inneres Wachstum wirken und uns ins Gleichgewicht bringen. Wir lernen wie wir in unserem täglichen Leben in Balance kommen und in einem Zustand der Stille Kraft schöpfen können. Ein zentraler Punkt ist die spürbare Stille in jedem von uns. Sie ist der Moment im Hier und Jetzt, der uns Inspiration, Freude und vieles mehr schenkt. In diesem Zustand zu verweilen bedeutet Meditation - und das ist die Quintessenz für inneres Wachstum und Weiterentwicklung. Wir freuen uns schon auf dich!

**You start, but don't finish. We help you get it done.** Join our [WhatsApp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/K6LidaoQhe16wZ0Se9pNM6?mode=gi_t). Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/nocrastinationclub/) You just haven’t been able to follow through. You start things, lose momentum and find yourself starting over again. You’re not alone. Most people get support at the beginning. And applause at the end. But the part that actually matters? The middle. The quiet, repetitive, sometimes frustrating part where nothing feels exciting, and everything depends on showing up. **That’s where we are.** At NoCrastination, we don’t meet for hype. We meet to **show up and finish something, together.** Not perfectly. Not magically. Just consistently. **What this really is** This is a space for people who are: * building something * figuring things out * or simply trying to stay on track **without doing it alone** You don’t need to be an entrepreneur. You just need something you want to move forward. **What happens here** You bring something you’ve been putting off. We sit down together. We focus. And you leave with something done. That’s it. And that’s everything. **Why people keep coming back** * “I finally follow through on what I plan” * “I leave with real progress every time” **Time and Location** 🕐 **Time:** 9:30 PM – 12:30 NOON 📍 **Location:** Jaz in the City – Ground Floor long table Windmühlgasse 28, 1060 Vienna 💻 **Bring:** Your laptop, journal, or anything you’ve been avoiding **Hosted by**: NoCrastination. See you across from the ground floor bar ✨ you will see us sitting at the long table with our laptops ☕ Please do order something from the bar, so as to keep us in their good graces! Espresso: €3.5, Americano: €4.5, Latte: €5.5. Donations to support the community are voluntary and welcome. **How it works** * **9:30–09:45 → arrival + intro + set your task** * **2 × 75’ focus sessions + 15’ breaks** * Quiet focus, optional social breaks * Drop in anytime, stay as long as you want No pressure. Just structure + presence. **First time joining?** Look for **Mati** near the ground floor bar with the long table. We’ll get you settled 💛 **This space is for you if…** * You keep starting but don’t finish * You work alone and feel stuck * You want structure without pressure * You don’t want to do this alone anymore **What you’ll get** Not motivation. Not a productivity hack. **You’ll get: ONE THING DONE.** And then you come back, and do it again. **This is how it starts** You don’t need to commit to anything big. Just come once. Pick one thing. Finish it. We’ll be there. **Stay connected** Join our [WhatsApp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/K6LidaoQhe16wZ0Se9pNM6?mode=gi_t) Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/nocrastinationclub/) This is a space you can keep coming back to. **You’re not behind.** **You’re just in the middle.** And you don’t have to go through it alone. You are one of us.

**After-work bike ride on the Donauinsel 🚴‍♂️ WhatsApp details below 💬** **Distances** 📏 ~25 km (half loop) ~45 km (full loop) **Pace** 💨 25–30 km/h (steady) **Route** 🗺️ Prater bridge → Donauinsel north end (~12.5 km) → back to Prater bridge (25 km option) → continue to south end → return to Prater bridge (~45 km total) **Meeting point**📍 Prater Hauptallee (near Prater Hochstraße/A23) Google Maps: 48°11'59.4"N 16°25'31.4"E https://maps.app.goo.gl/AHBHHCnqcovcbYKj7 **WhatsApp community** 💬 https://chat.whatsapp.com/EybX7iRCRcHCKQ01N7Uhgn

Hello Viennovans! Pickwick's is getting quizzical every monday night! You have a chance to win a round of shots, a 40€ bar tab and/or eternal bragging rights 😉 Teams of up to 6 people, reserve your spot today! Start time is 7! FREE SHOT FOR EVERYONE COMING FROM VIENNOVA!

Hi everyone! On **Sunday, April 26, 2026**, I’m planning a scenic cross-border hike from the charming town of **Retz** in Lower Austria to the historic Czech town of **Znaim (Znojmo)**. This route leads through gentle countryside, vineyards, open fields, and quiet rural landscapes typical for the Weinviertel region. We start the hike in Retz and finish in the old town of Znaim, known for its impressive medieval architecture and its location above the Thaya River. The trail takes us through rolling hills and agricultural landscapes, gradually crossing the border into the Czech Republic. The terrain is mostly easy to walk, with wide paths and only moderate elevation changes. **Highlights** 🌾 **Typical Weinviertel landscapes** with vineyards, fields, and wide open views 🌍 **A scenic cross-border experience** from Austria into the Czech Republic 🏰 **Finish in the historic old town of Znaim**, a charming town with impressive medieval architecture **Hike Details** * **Duration:** approx. 6.5 hours (pure walking time including some sightseeing in Znojmo) * **Distance:** approx. 21 km * **Elevation:** ↗️ 400 m up * **Difficulty:** Easy to moderate (main challenge is the distance) * **Pace:** We’ll walk at a comfortable, social pace and take short breaks as needed More information on the trail: [https://www.bahn-zum-berg.at/weinviertel/weinberge-und-thaya-von-retz-nach-znaim/](https://www.bahn-zum-berg.at/weinviertel/weinberge-und-thaya-von-retz-nach-znaim/) **Fitness note** Although we will walk at a relaxed pace, the hike requires physical effort due to its length (about **21 km**) and elevation gain (around **350 meters**). The trails themselves are not technically difficult, but a reasonable level of fitness is needed to comfortably complete the distance. This hike is therefore probably **not suitable** for people who do not go hiking regularly, who have not joined our group hikes before, or who are not used to longer hikes. **Meeting Point & Travel** **Meeting Time:** 08:30 at **Praterstern station** (Ground floor near ticket machines, exit to platforms 1 & 2) Please arrive a few minutes early so we can buy the group tickets. **Departure:** Train **REX3** leaves at **09:01** (presumably Platform 1–2) **Arrival:** Retz at **10:12** **Direct trains from Znojmo back to Vienna:** 16:57, 18:57, 20:57 I recommend avoiding the last train back, just in case. **What to Expect** We’ll walk together at a **relaxed, social pace**, staying as a group throughout the day. This is **not a race or performance hike** — the focus is on shared experience, conversation, and enjoying the landscape at an unhurried rhythm. We’ll take regular short breaks whenever useful. 🥪 We don’t plan to stop at huts or restaurants during the hike, so please bring your own snacks and drinks (at least **1.5 liters of water**). 🌧️ Weather can be changeable, so **basic rain protection is recommended**. 🥾 Please wear **sturdy hiking shoes**. Some sections may be muddy, depending on the weather. Please note that **there are no public toilets on the trail itself.** 🧢 Please bring **sun protection** (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), especially on warm or sunny days. ⚠️**Important** Since we are crossing an international border on foot, please do not forget your **passport or national ID card (Personalausweis)**. Even though there are usually no border controls between Austria and Czechia, you are legally required to carry a valid travel document. Each person is responsible for their own documents and entry requirements. **Ticket Option** The **VOR Freizeitticket** costs **€19.90** for the day in Lower Austria. More information: [https://www.vor.at/en/tickets/ticket-overview/leisure-ticket](https://www.vor.at/en/tickets/ticket-overview/leisure-ticket) Please note: The following tickets are only valid until **Retz**: * Einfach-raus ticket * VOR Freizeitticket * Klimaticket Ostregion / Österreich You must buy your own ticket for the section between Znojmo and Retz (approx €3,4 for each direction). The VOR Freizeitticket is only valid on regional trains in Lower Austria. If you are unsure about ticket options, don’t worry — just message me directly. And if this sounds complicated: it isn’t. I will help coordinate everything at the meeting point so we can start the hike in a relaxed way. **Disclaimer:** As always, this is a free, private leisure activity. I am not a certified hiking guide, and participation is at your own responsibility and risk. I will send a weather update to everyone registered on **Friday evening**. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions. Looking forward to seeing you for this spring hike! Jörg **Essential Logistics** . . . **Travel Information** **Travel documents** Since we are crossing an international border, please bring your passport or national ID card. Even without regular border checks, you are legally required to carry valid identification. Each participant is responsible for their own travel documents and entry requirements. **Money** Card payments are widely accepted in the Czech Republic. The local currency is Czech Koruna (CZK), but many places also accept Euros. **Phone data** EU roaming rules apply. Your Austrian mobile data plan should work without extra cost. If you use a prepaid or non-EU SIM card, please check with your provider.

Hi everyone! On Saturday, April 25, 2026, I am planning a scenic spring hike in **Znojmo (Czech Republic)**. Join us for a relaxed and social day as we explore the historic town of Znojmo and beautiful sections of **Podyjí National Park**. **Highlights** 🌿 Scenic trails through parts of Podyjí National Park 🏰 Historic town of Znojmo with charming streets and viewpoints 🌄 Beautiful views over the Thaya river valley ☕ Flexible return — stay longer in Znojmo to explore, relax, or enjoy a café after the hike I also plan a short walk through the city so we can do some sightseeing together. After the hike, you are free to stay longer in Znojmo if you like. Since everyone buys their own train ticket, you can return at your preferred time. I highly recommend visiting the Znojmo Town Hall Tower (approx 4€ entrance) and the underground tour: [https://www.znojemskabeseda.cz/en/tourism/underground](https://www.znojemskabeseda.cz/en/tourism/underground) **Hike Details** **Duration:** Approx. 4 hours (pure walking time, not including sightseeing in Znojmo) **Distance:** Approx. 16 km **Elevation:** ↗️ 450 m up **Difficulty:** Easy (technically), but requires basic fitness due to the distance **Pace:** We’ll walk at a comfortable, social pace and take short breaks as needed **Meeting Point & Travel** **Meeting Time:** 08:30 **Meeting Location:** Praterstern station (ground floor near ticket machines, exit to platforms 1 & 2) **Departure:** Train REX3 leaves at 09:01 (presumably Platform 1–2). Please buy your own ticket before boarding the train. **Arrival:** Znojmo at 10:36 **Direct trains back to Vienna:** 14:57, 16:57, 18:57, 20:57 I recommend avoiding the last train back, just in case. **What to Expect** We will walk together as a group at a relaxed and friendly pace. This is not a race or performance hike — the focus is on enjoying nature, conversation, and a shared experience. We will stay together during the hike and take short breaks whenever useful. Please note: We do not plan to stop at huts or restaurants during the hike. **What to Bring** 🥪 Snacks and drinks (at least 1.5 liters of water) 🥾 Sturdy hiking shoes 🌧️ Basic rain protection 🧢 Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) Please note: There are no public toilets on the trail itself. **Ticket Information** The **VOR Freizeitticket** costs €19.90 for one day in Lower Austria. Important: The Einfach-Raus ticket, VOR Freizeitticket, and Klimaticket are only valid until **Retz**. You need an additional ticket for the short section between **Retz and Znojmo** (approx. €3–4 per direction). If you are unsure about ticket options, don’t worry. I will help coordinate everything at the meeting point so we can start the day in a relaxed way. **Travel documents** Since we are crossing an international border, please bring your passport or national ID card. Even without regular border checks, you are legally required to carry valid identification. Each participant is responsible for their own travel documents and entry requirements. **Disclaimer** This is a free, private leisure activity. I am not a certified hiking guide. Please join only if you feel comfortable with the distance and conditions. Everyone participates at their own responsibility. I will send a weather update to everyone registered on Thursday evening. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me. Looking forward to a beautiful spring day together! Jörg . . . **Travel Information** **Travel documents** Since we are crossing an international border, please bring your passport or national ID card. Even without regular border checks, you are legally required to carry valid identification. Each participant is responsible for their own travel documents and entry requirements. **Money** Card payments are widely accepted in the Czech Republic. The local currency is Czech Koruna (CZK), but many places also accept Euros. **Phone data** EU roaming rules apply. Your Austrian mobile data plan should work without extra cost. If you use a prepaid or non-EU SIM card, please check with your provider.

Join our outdoor yoga class in Vienna for a relaxing park yoga session designed for beginners and experienced yogis. Please read the complete event description ✨ What to Expect • Breath-led Yoga Flow • Gentle stretching and mindful movement • Relaxing outdoor atmosphere • Friendly and welcoming community 🧘 Level Beginner to intermediate 🎒 What to Bring • Yoga mat • Comfortable clothes • Water 💛 Energy Exchange Pay what you feel right (suggested between €10-€20) **Join us for instant updates:** **https://chat.whatsapp.com/JbCZPIUQrCv6lhd00M0oXI** 📍 **Location**: Auer-Welsbach Park – near the U4 Grünbergasse exit We will be at this location https://maps.app.goo.gl/YfwydU7UN9YiWZWE6 More details: Exit the U4 at Grünbergasse. When you come out of the station, turn left and cross the street. You’ll see the park entrance directly ahead. Walk about 100 meters inside the park, and you’ll find us on the right side on the grass

❄️ Welcome to Seek Discomfort – Ice Bathing Club Vienna! 🧊 Ready to do something a little crazy… in the best way? We’re a welcoming community of people who love stepping outside our comfort zones, trying new things, and facing the cold together. No matter who you are, where you’re from, or how old you are — you’re welcome here. New to Vienna? An expat? Just curious? Perfect. Most of our meetups are in English, and it’s a great way to connect with like-minded people. At our sessions, we dip (or swim!) in icy water, support each other, practice optional simple breathing techniques, and discover just how strong we really are — mentally and physically. **Arrival**: We usually arrive between 11:00-11:15 and then go into the water together. Depending on the weather and the mood, we might do a breathwork before dipping. ❗️Safety first, always. No pressure, no ego. You only do what feels right for you. Expect encouragement, positive energy, and a shared adventure you won’t forget. 🎒 What to bring: Swimsuit, towel, warm clothes, and something hot to drink. Come challenge yourself, feel alive, and maybe even fall in love with the cold. Hope to see you in the water soon 🧊🔥

Join me for a photo walk :) We will gather at Gasometer (in front of Apotheke - straight out of Ubahn). After a short introduction we will walk around the 4 iconic buildings, then make our way to Ostbahnsteg, where a view over Donaukanal awaits. At the end of the walk everyone is welcome to join for a warm drink at a nearby cafe. The event is free of charge but will be limited to max 10 people as it is meant as an opportunity to connect, and the park is the perfect location for losing parts of a group. It is suitable for all regardless of age/level/gear. IMPORTANT: as these events are usually full, please make sure to cancel at least 24h in advance if you see you aren´t able to make it. Failing to do so will result in a ban from the next 3 events.

**Walk & Talk** Willst du auch mehr Bewegung in dein Leben bringen? Und dich dabei noch gut unterhalten, so dass die Zeit verfliegt? Dann bist du hier genau richtig, denn mir geht es genauso. Alleine ist langweilig und die Zeit vergeht nicht, daher hab ich mir Walk & Talk überlegt. Inspiriert wurde ich durch die Walk & Talk Gruppe in Hamburg, wo ich mehrere Male dabei war als ich in Hamburg lebte. Unterschiedliche Menschen treffen sich einmal in der Woche für einen flotten Spaziergang und unterhalten sich dabei. Ich liebe es neue Menschen kennenzulernen und auch bekannte Gesichter wiederzusehen, dann geh ich ganz nebenbei und das macht auch noch Spaß.😊 **Walk:** Wir brauchen einfach regelmäßige Bewegung und ich weiß selbst, wie schwierig es ist, diese in den Alltag zu integrieren. Deshalb ist dieser Walk genau richtig. Nach diesem Spaziergang fühlst du dich einfach wohl, fit und entspannt. **Talk:** Das Reden kommt ganz von selbst beim Gehen. Du kannst über alles reden, egal, ob privates oder berufliches, alles was sich ergibt ist willkommen. Und wenn du keinen Bock aufs Reden hast, dann gehst du alleine, auch das ist völlig in Ordnung. **Wie das ganze abläuft:** * Die Teilnahme ist völlig kostenlos. * Wo: U6 Spittelau (im Freien), Richtung Donaukanal, Ausgang Josef-Holaubek-Platz, direkt vor dem Fernwärme-Turm (https://maps.app.goo.gl/XwAayz4FQe2EW8WK9) Wenn du mit der U4 kommst, geh bitte zum Hauptgebäude, wo die Züge und die U6 fahren. * Wann: Wir treffen uns dienstags um 13 Uhr, egal, ob bei Regen, Sturm und Kälte oder bestem Sonnenschein – Walk & Talk findet nahezu JEDE Woche statt außer ich bin mal im Urlaub. * Wir starten pünktlich und beginnen mit einer kurzen Vorstellungsrunde. * Wie gehen am Donaukanal entlang von Höhe Spittelau bis zum Schwedenplatz und zurück. * Ca. 7 Kilometer sind wir unterwegs und unterhalten uns dabei mit interessanten Menschen. Dabei kannst du neue Bekanntschaften schließen, dich inspirieren lassen, von Projekten erzählen oder einfach nur smalltalken und die frische Luft genießen. Alles ist erlaubt. * Nach ca. 1,75 Stunden sind wir wieder am Ausgangspunkt zurück. * Bei einer Teilnahme von über 5 Personen gehen wir in Paaren und wechseln diese alle 10 Min. Wenn du aber lieber alleine gehst, ist das auch vollkommen in Ordnung. * Für alle, die einfach mal etwas Neues ausprobieren wollen. **Bist du bereit?** Dann komm mit! **Start bei U6 Spittelau Ausgang Donaukanal** Nochmal: um **PUNKT 13.00 Uhr dort sein**, denn **nach kurzen Vorstellungsrunde gehen wir gleich los. Sei pünktlich, denn die Gruppe wartet nicht.** Du musst nichts vorbereiten oder dich gar anmelden, komm einfach vorbei. Ausreden gibt es nicht. Geh mit und freu dich auf eine tolle neue Erfahrung. **Wer macht es?** Ich bin Marie Meyer-Marktl und Ideengeberin, Host und Organisatorin von Walk & Talk. Ich unterstütze seit 2019 Menschen dabei Freude ins Arbeitsleben zu bekommen und bin Business und Life Coachin. „Strahle, wenn du an deine Arbeit denkst“, ist meine Vision für jedermann und jedefrau. Privat merkte ich, dass ich endlich wieder mehr Bewegung brauche – und das klappt am besten gemeinsam mit anderen Menschen. Sei dabei bei Walk & Talk und bring Bewegung in dein Leben. **Do you speak English? Then welcome to Walk & Talk!** This event is suited for all people who like to connect to other people and like to walk. The beauty of this regular event is that you are in the nature and you walk around 7 kilometers. In the meantime, if you feel for it, you talk, if not, you just walk. You do something for your health, get to know new people and you will feel much better. It’s FREE, all you need to do is to show up this Tuesday at no later than 1 pm at the U6 Spittelau exit to Donaukanal.

Early bouldering Session at the Edelweiss Center. Each participant is responsible for paying their entry fee upon arrival. Keep in mind that you need an Alpenverein Membership after your first trial visit. Meeting at the entrance area and entering together at 8’

**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.

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

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.

We will hike the Ridge Trail and Meadows Trail twice, for a total of 3.8 miles. There are some pretty good inclines so plan on getting a cardio workout :). This is a loop which is pretty easy to follow; thus faster walkers can take the lead and the rest (like me) will bring up the rear at a slightly slower pace. You could also just do the loop once for 1.9 miles. No one left behind. Optional lunch to follow in Canal Winchester. I'm working through the metro parks - this is the third one!

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.

Join us for one of our favorite hikes this Tuesday (4/21/26) at 6:30 pm as we hike the Hoover Dam Scenic Trail, starting at the west end of the dam. This hike includes some paved paths/roads along with some dirt trails, with a few beautiful views of the reservoir. Join us for this 2 mile hike, finding us in the parking lot at the corner of Sunbury and Smoke Burr.