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Wilderness Hiking

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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! Check out wilderness hiking events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.

Discover all the wilderness hiking events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.

Absolutely! Find wilderness hiking events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.

Wilderness Hiking Events Today

Join in-person Wilderness Hiking events happening right now

Planggenstock hike
Planggenstock hike
**Walk description:** The hike starts in front of the bus stop Reichenburg Altersheim at 8:35. Then we walk to Näfels following a ridge hike. It is not a broad ridge hike like Stoss but it is not a very narrow ridge hike like the hike between Schwytz and Glarus for those we remember. But the path is probably still a little slippery and there are probably still small traces of snow You need to be fit and have good hiking shoes. [von Reichenburg nach Glarus Nord | Wanderung | Komoot](https://www.komoot.com/tour/2895207010) **How to go with the train (from Zurich and I will meet you on the way):** [Verbindungen Zürich HB nach Reichenburg, Altersheim | Das Online-Portal der SBB für Fahrplan, Zug und ÖV](https://www.sbb.ch/de?date=%222025-04-25%22&moment=dep&p_cursor=%22M3xPRnxNVMK1MTTCtTE5MjMzNsK1MTkyMzM2wrUxOTIzNzXCtTE5MjM4MMK1MMK1MMK1MjXCtTE5MjMwN8K1NsK1MMK1MsK1MMK1MMK1LTIxNDc0ODM2NDjCtTHCtTJ8UERIwrVjMjE4MGMzMmI2ZTkzZGJiMjdlNWQ5NWNmNmY2MzNjZXxSRMK1MjUwNDIwMjV8UlTCtTEyMzQwMHxVU8K1MHxSU8K1SU5JVA==%22&selected_leg=0&selected_trip=4&stops=Z%C3%BCrich+HB_I8503000~Reichenburg,+Altersheim_I8574481&time=07_14&day=2026-04-26&trip=1) **dedicated whatapp group** [WhatsApp-Gruppeneinladung](https://chat.whatsapp.com/GxCQyCn1WJZBC9b8Nc7eRL) **Registration:** To sign up, please select "Yes" in the WhatsApp community survey for this activity: [🌄 Switzerland Discovery Crew (Preferred Ages 18-35)🌄 | WhatsApp-Kanal](https://www.whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaoercY1XquRrJm58k3V) If the event will happen in more than 30 days, I haven't added the survey in the channel yet. (Because message in a WhatsApp channel can be read by a new member only 30 days before he joins. But you can already enter the corresponding WhatsApp group) If you are concerned about privacy, only the admin of a WhatsApp channel can see who has voted in a poll (unlike a WhatsApp group). Please sign up only when you are certain! You can also register through Meetup, as it helps build momentum; however, I rely only on the number of people who signed up through the WhatsApp survey.
Sunny HIKE from Werdenberg via Voralpsee to Wildhaus, 1150m up, 550m down, 6h
Sunny HIKE from Werdenberg via Voralpsee to Wildhaus, 1150m up, 550m down, 6h
We start in the picturesque and smallest swiss town of Werdenberg (photo), from where we walk up the Grabserberg with spring flowers, make a lunch break near the beautiful Lake Voralpsee and go via the Ölberg (1428m) to Wildhaus, approx. 1150m up, 550m down, 17km, 6 h. Around Wildhaus there may be some snow, but the paths are safe. We go in a moderate pace, with time to take pictures, enjoy the spring flowers and have nice talks. Arriving in Wildhaus we may take a coffee or a beer. The return from Wildhaus will be by bus, either via Buchs or via Nesslau, whichever is more convenient for you Starting from Zürich : 7:38 Zürich HB, Gleis 11, IC3 direction Chur Sargans arr 08:32, Gleis 5 Note: You have to pass the station building in direction north to get to track 6. You may have to rush since it is only 3 min !! Sargans dep 08:35, IR13 from track 6, to Buchs SG, arr. 8:44 From Buchs SG, Bus 797, Kante D, dep. 8:53 Final destination is: Werdenberg, Städtli, arr. 8:56 Myself I will meet you in Werdenberg, Städtli. What you should bring: * good shoes (they may get muddy), * sun protection, * rain protection, * poles, if you have, * enough to drink and food for the whole day DISCLAIMER: By joining the walk you accept the terms listed here. This is NOT a guided tour. Instead, this is a get-together of individuals who themselves are responsible for their judgement, choices and actions. It is your own responsibility to prepare appropriately before the event: You need to understand what activity is foreseen, assess the difficulty, risks and dangers and the expected weather conditions. Furthermore, you need to assess the requirements regarding experience, capabilities and fitness condition, and judge if you personally have the necessary experience, capabilities and fitness level. You yourself also need to assure adequate preparation, equipment (boots, clothes, gear...) and insurance cover and do everything as if you were going by yourself. During the event it is also your own responsibility to apply your own judgement and to take considerate responsible decisions yourself, fully within your own responsibility and judgement. The event is entirely at your own risk. The organiser also does not warrant on the accuracy or completeness of the description above. The organiser just offers you to join one another and to go together, but holds no responsibility for anything, including injuries or death that might result directly or indirectly from this event.
Rapperswil monastery and hike
Rapperswil monastery and hike
Hi everyone, Let's visit the famous Rappelswil monastery followed by a short-hike. We will start at Pfaffikon SZ and finish at Uerikon and have a picnic lunch along the way. https://www.zuerich.com/en/visit/attractions/rapperswil-hurden-wooden-bridge-a-walkway-across-lake-zurich **Hike description:** Distance: 16 km Time: 5 h Elevation difference: 300 m up and down **Travel itinerary:** see photo **Meeting point:** Pfaffikon SZ **Minimum of 5 participants with confirmed donation; max. 15** **Booking system:** Mandatory donation of 10 CHF to your favourite charity. To secure your spot or move from the waiting list to the going list, please send me a confirmation of your donation to [[[[laurameetup@yahoo.com](mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com)]([mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com](http://mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com/))]([mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com](http://mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com/))]([mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com](http://mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com/)) Alternatively, you can donate here: [Zurich Weekends and Hiking | Schweizerisches Rotes Kreuz](https://actnow.redcross.ch/en-GB/project/zurich-weekends-and-hiking?tab=overview) Check out our Facebook page: [https://www.facebook.com/share/15HuDGWwiM/?mibextid=wwXIfr](https://www.facebook.com/share/15HuDGWwiM/?mibextid=wwXIfr) Cancelled in case of bad weather. See you, Laura
Ticino hike - Nature trail “Zwischen Bergen und See”
Ticino hike - Nature trail “Zwischen Bergen und See”
The tour follows the nature trail ‘Zwischen Bergen und See’ featured on the official Ticino website. -> [Der Lehrpfad zwischen Bergen und See](https://www.ticino.ch/de/hike/details/Der-Lehrpfad-zwischen-Bergen-und-See/22874002.html) We will be covering most of stages 1 and 2, from Dirinella to Magadino. The tour itself does not take us to the highest peaks, but is a route that could also be called “Spring in Ticino”, and I expect stunning blossoms, nature in full bloom and the Mediterranean setting of Ticino. A pleasure tour and a short holiday for the heart and the senses. Komoot Link: [Nature trail “Zwischen Bergen und See”](https://www.komoot.com/de-de/tour/2705965632) **Key data** Length: 15,9 km Ascent: 680 m Descent: 680 m Duration without breaks: approx. 5:15 hours Technical difficulty: A challenging hike. A high level of fitness is required. The paths are generally easy to walk on. Sure-footedness is required. - We might encounter two short T2 sections, but otherwise it should be fairly straightforward. **Arrival and departure** Meeting point: 7:50 Zürich HB under the blue angel 8:05 Departure from Zürich with the IR46 towards Locarno 8:49 Departure from Arth-Goldau with the IC21 towards Lugano 9:49 Departure from Bellinzona with the S20 towards Locarno 10:06 Departure from Cadenazzo, Stazione with the B350 towards Dirinella 10:38 Start of hike Dirinella Return journey expected between 17:30 to 20:00 from Ticino, see Information in “Breaks” **Breaks** A short break is planned approximately every hour. After two/three hours, there will be a slightly longer break for lunch. About an hour after midday, we’ll might have the chance to enjoy a coffee or a drink of our choice at San Nazarro. The Tour itself will approximately finish at 17:30 in Magadino-Vira. On the way home, we’re planning to stop off in Bellinzona afterwards and have a pizza for dinner together. However, this is just an idea for now, and everyone can decide for themselves whether they’d like to join in or not. Please bring enough food for lunch, and in case dinner doesn’t work out, I’d recommend packing an extra sandwich. **Disclaimer** **Important Notice** This is **NOT a guided tour**, but an informal meetup of individuals acting on their own responsibility. Participation is at your own risk. Each participant is solely responsible for: * assessing the requirements and difficulty of the hike, * evaluating their own fitness and capabilities, * ensuring adequate equipment (boots, clothing, etc.) and sufficient insurance coverage, * checking the weather forecast in advance. In case professional rescue services are required, each participant will be responsible for the costs. The organizer accepts no responsibility for any injuries, accidents, or death that may result directly or indirectly from this event. The organizer does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of the hike description. By joining this hike, you agree to the terms stated above. **Image license (example image, not from the tour)** GeminiAI generated
Ice Climbing Course for Beginners
Ice Climbing Course for Beginners
Meager Mystery hike (10-15km, 400-600m, 5-6hrs)
Meager Mystery hike (10-15km, 400-600m, 5-6hrs)
This a beginners hike for peole with little or no experience. That being said, you should still own & wear hiking shoes to be safe on the trail. We will start at a comfortable time and walk at an easy pace. The weather will be sunny with temperatures up to 18°C. Ideal conditions for a spring hike. If we still find some wild garlic in the forest, we shall forage a bit. Around lunch we will enjoy our picnic lunch and we will finish in the late afternoon – with an optional visit of a food truck festival at the end of the hike. Should you have questions about the shoes and gear, feel free to ask me, once you have sent me your whatsapp number. The gear list will be shared in the whatsapp group. **This is a guided hike by a Swiss certified mountain leader and the participation fee is set at 20 CHF.** If you are joining for the first time, kindly send me your full name and WhatsApp number via direct message on meetup upon sign-up. Once you sign up, you will be temporarily on the waiting list. As soon as I have received your whatsapp message you will receive payment instructions and you will be moved to the list of participants once you have wired the participation fee via TWINT. Further details (what to bring & how to dress) will be shared in the WhatsApp group that will be created on Friday prior to the hike. The group size is limited to 15 participants.

Wilderness Hiking Events This Week

Discover what is happening in the next few days

Gulme Trail Hike, Amden ⛰️🌿
Gulme Trail Hike, Amden ⛰️🌿
**🐕✨ Dog lovers, time to get back out there!** We’re back with a new group dog hike — and this one’s worth it 😍 📅 Sunday, 26 April 📍 Gulme Trail, Amden 🚊 Train from ZH HB 8:12 —> Ziegelbrücke 8:58 + BUS 650 from Ziegelbrücke 9:04 —> Arvenbüel, Arven 9:37 A beautiful scenic loop above Walensee 🌊 Expect alpine meadows 🌼, forest paths 🌲, and stunning views all the way up to the Gulmen summit ⛰️ 🥾 Details: ~10.5 km | ~600 m elevation | ~3.5h [Official details ](https://www.amden-weesen.ch/en/poi/detail/gulme-trail-85cf1375fd) 🐾 Expect: * happy dogs * a relaxed, chill atmosphere * a mix of movement + chats + chaos (the good kind 😄) 👥 All friendly dogs & humans welcome! Join our [WhatsApp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/IMc3JGToenY1K6FpzXwwW2?mode=gi_t) or follow [pawsadventures_zurich](https://www.instagram.com/pawsadventures_zurich?igsh=eTFxd3kxd3owcTh4&utm_source=qr) on Instagram where we’ll be sharing pics and info too!
Clarity Walk
Clarity Walk
## Schritt für Schritt zu dir **Meditative Coaching-Wanderung auf den Uetliberg** Inmitten der Natur, fern vom Alltag, entsteht Raum für das, was im Trubel oft untergeht: deine Gedanken, deine Fragen, deine innere Stimme. Diese besondere Wanderung verbindet achtsame Bewegung mit gezielten Coaching-Impulsen. Während wir gemeinsam vom Triemli auf den Uetliberg gehen, wechseln sich stille Gehphasen mit kurzen Reflexionspausen ab. Schritt für Schritt näherst du dich deinem persönlichen Thema – ohne Druck, in deinem eigenen Tempo. Die Natur unterstützt dich dabei, Abstand zu gewinnen, klarer zu sehen und neue Perspektiven zu entwickeln. Ob du vor einer Entscheidung stehst, dich neu ausrichten möchtest oder einfach bewusst Zeit für dich suchst – dieser Weg führt dich zurück zu dir. Am Ende erwartet dich nicht nur die Weite über Zürich und die Alpen, sondern vor allem mehr Klarheit in dir. ## Ziel der Wanderung * Klarheit über ein persönliches Thema gewinnen * innere Ruhe und Abstand zum Alltag finden * neue Perspektiven und Lösungsansätze entwickeln * einen konkreten nächsten Schritt für dich mitnehmen ## Ablauf & Key Facts * **Dauer:** ca. 2,5 Stunden * **Strecke:** Triemli → Uetliberg * **Format:** Geführte Coaching-Wanderung mit Geh- und Reflexionsphasen * **Voraussetzung:** normale Grundkondition, keine Coaching-Erfahrung nötig * **Kosten**: Die Teilnahme erfolgt auf Basis deines Wunschpreises. Diesen wählst du bereits bei der Buchung deines Tickets – im Einklang mit dem Wert, den diese Erfahrung für dich hat. ## Für wen ist das geeignet? Für Menschen, die sich bewusst Zeit für sich nehmen möchten. Für alle, die spüren, dass ein Thema in ihrem Leben Aufmerksamkeit braucht – und die bereit sind, sich diesem in Ruhe und Tiefe zu widmen.
☀️ Vinyasa Yoga & Sunday Uetliberg Walk 🚶‍♂️
☀️ Vinyasa Yoga & Sunday Uetliberg Walk 🚶‍♂️
☀️ Calm Yoga & Sunday Walk ✨( Open Spots) Let’s start day the gentle way, with calm movement, good energy, and nice company. We’ll begin with a soft Vinyasa Flow to open the body, find your breath, and ease into the day, no rush, no pressure, just mindful movement and a relaxed vibe. After class, we’ll take an easy walk to Ürliberg enjoying some fresh air, and maybe a little sunshine. We’ll finish at the top and there will be the perfect time to chat, laugh, and just enjoy time together. 📍 Where: Reactics Studio – Wiedikon Frauentalweg 16 – Google Maps https://maps.app.goo.gl/mCBb8rAGY7Q28Jun6?g_st=ipc 🕒 When: Sunday, 30.11.2025 at 11:00-12:00 am and then walk up to Ütliberg 💰Price: 25 CHF 💡Limited to 8 participants – please reserve your spot with payment via Twint, Revolut or cash- registration requirement ⚡️please only register if you are really interested in joining the class !!! ✨ Level: All levels welcome Yoga mats and probs are available at the studio. 🧘‍♀️To stay connected, payment and get updates, join the WhatsApp group below And follow me on Insta @flowwithselai ⬇️ https://chat.whatsapp.com/JuyFngJkCnTHcCuTx5S4hZ?mode=ac_c
Walk and Connect - Easy Trail on Zürichberg
Walk and Connect - Easy Trail on Zürichberg
**[👉Ticket needed](https://eventfrog.ch/de/p/sport-fitness/wandern/walk-and-connect-easy-trail-on-zuerichberg-7450133696307268861.html)** **🌿 Social Sunday Trail on Zürichberg – Walk, Talk & Connect! 🥾💬** Join us for a relaxed trail on Zürichberg with fresh air, easy forest paths, and great conversations. We’ll match you with new people for one-on-one chats along the way – less small talk, more real connection. 😊 It’s the perfect Sunday plan to slow down, enjoy nature, and meet like-minded people in a beautiful part of Zurich. **👋 Coming alone? That’s totally fine!** We’ll match you with people who share your vibe using the Social Circle app (onboarding during the event). 📲 Stay in the loop: Join our WhatsApp group for updates and the live meeting location on the day: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/HoV0WQOjorpGIL92yG5nkY?mode=ems_copy_t](https://chat.whatsapp.com/HoV0WQOjorpGIL92yG5nkY?mode=ems_copy_t) If the link doesn’t open on your phone, try using WhatsApp Web on your computer. **🕒 Timeline** * ⏰ 11:20 – Meet under the big clock at Zurich Main Station (HB) * 🚋 11:45 – Take tram line 6 from Bahnhofplatz/HB to Zoo * 🚶 12:05 – Short walk to the trail entrance on Zürichberg * ❄️ 12:15 – Quick icebreakers to get things flowing * 🗣️ 12:30 – Easy trail through the forest with one-on-one matchups (we switch partners along the way) * 🏙️ 15:00 – Head back to the city 🎒 What to Bring * 📱 Your smartphone for the friend-matching * 👟 Comfy shoes for forest paths * 🥤 Water and a small snack Let’s make your Sunday social, simple, and refreshing! 🌳💬 **Disclaimer** Participation in this event requires a valid ticket, which must be purchased in advance via the link provided in the event description. Please note that tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. We do not accept cash payments on the day of the event. To ensure a smooth and safe experience, we kindly ask all participants to follow the instructions and announcements from the event organizers. While our team works hard to create an enjoyable and welcoming atmosphere, attendance is at your own risk. We want everyone to feel comfortable and respected. If you encounter any issues or uncomfortable situations during the event, please speak directly to a member of our team — we’re here to help. We reserve the right to exclude participants from the event if they do not adhere to basic standards of respectful interpersonal behavior. This decision is at the discretion of the responsible organizers. By signing up, you agree that any content captured during the event (including photos and videos) may be used on Social Circle’s social media channels and those of our partners. Please be aware that we cannot wait for late participants, as this disrupts the planned group flow and connections. If you're delayed or choose a different route, it’s your responsibility to catch up with the group. A live location will be shared in the event's WhatsApp chat to help you reconnect. Join out Whatsapp newsletter: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/KWSK2jINyuG9uHHjtxfnmP?mode=gi_t](https://chat.whatsapp.com/KWSK2jINyuG9uHHjtxfnmP?mode=gi_t)
COLD WATER PLUNGE - picnic edition
COLD WATER PLUNGE - picnic edition
Welcome cold lovers! We have been practising cold water plunges for over 4 years. We believe in the benefits of cold water exposure. The feeling you get after the swim is magnificent, it makes you feel alive. We have started this group to safely experience the cold water together. We motivate each other, do active warmup exercises, and also share our life stories with a warm coffee/tea afterwards. The event is every Sunday at 11:30, we meet no matter the weather. Take along: a large towel, comfortable bathing suit, flip-flops, and warm clothes (hat, gloves, etc). If you’re planning swimming out take along a bright swim buoy. The event is Free. IMPORTANT: Every participant takes responsibility for themselves when attending this event. Before attempting cold water exposure, individuals with health conditions (e.g., heart problems or hypertension) should seek advice from a healthcare professional. Safely acclimating the body to cold temperatures requires preparation and gradual exposure.
Open Sharing Circle ✨ (Deutsch)
Open Sharing Circle ✨ (Deutsch)
Open Sharing Circle ✨ _____ **Wichtig: Bitte seid pünktlich, damit der Austausch möglichst nicht gestört wird :)** Dieser Circle findet auf Deutsch statt. Wir kommen zusammen, um im Moment präsent zu sein und uns so zu zeigen, wie wir wirklich sind. Die Intention ist, in einem sicheren und vertrauensvollen Raum zu teilen — Gedanken, Emotionen, Ziele, Meinungen — alles, was sich für dich im Moment lebendig anfühlt. Niemand muss etwas teilen, und jede\*r ist willkommen. ⸻ Worum geht es? • Stärkung von Selbstwahrnehmung & Selbstvertrauen • Persönliches Wachstum • Aufbau tiefer Beziehungen & Vertrauen • Menschen auf einer echten, menschlichen Ebene kennenlernen • Sich frei fühlen, sich authentisch auszudrücken ⸻ Circle-Vereinbarungen Frei & freiwillig Du darfst alles teilen, was du möchtest — und musst nichts teilen. Sprich aus deiner eigenen Erfahrung Teile aus deiner persönlichen Perspektive: deine Erfahrungen, Gedanken, Gefühle und Wahrnehmungen. Der Raumhalter kann dich dabei sanft unterstützen, indem er als Zeichen eine Hand auf die Brust legt. Respekt & Vertraulichkeit Wir begegnen uns respektvoll und ohne zu urteilen. Was im Circle geteilt wird, bleibt im Circle. Rede-Objekt Nur die Person, die das Rede-Objekt hält, spricht. Verständnisfragen sind willkommen. Redezeit & Raum teilen Nimm dir Zeit beim Teilen und lass gleichzeitig Raum für andere. Ratschläge & Unterstützung Sprich für dich selbst und gib Ratschläge nur mit Einverständnis. Bitte frage ausdrücklich nach, wenn du Ratschläge oder Unterstützung möchtest. Trigger & Emotionen Jede\*r ist für die eigenen Gefühle und Themen selbst verantwortlich. Starke Emotionen (z. B. Weinen) sind willkommen und werden respektiert. Unterstützung wird nur angeboten, wenn sie gewünscht ist. Eigene Bedürfnisse Kümmere dich selbst um deine Bedürfnisse (WC, Essen usw.) und respektiere den Gruppenraum. Raumhalter Das Organisationsteam wählt Raumhalter, die den Ablauf des Circles unterstützen und darauf achten, dass die Vereinbarungen eingehalten werden. Der Circle kann bei Bedarf sanft unterbrochen werden. Fokusrunde Der Raumhalter kann intuitiv eine kurze Fokusrunde initiieren, wenn es unterstützend wirkt. Mobiltelefone Bitte schalte dein Handy auf lautlos und nutze es nur für Notizen, falls nötig. Zeit Dauer: ca. 3 Stunden. Du kannst jederzeit gehen, idealerweise während der Pausen (etwa alle 45 Minuten). Nach dem Circle gibt es Raum, um zu bleiben, sich zu verbinden oder weiter zu teilen, wenn du magst. Teilnahme CHF 5 Basisbeitrag + freiwillige Kollekte. Damit unterstützt ihr Raummiete, Organisation und ermöglicht es uns, den Sharing Circle möglichst vielen Menschen zugänglich zu machen. Bezahlung: Bar vor Ort oder per Twint an +41 79 123 16 74.
Golf together
Golf together
Summer is finally here — and I’m happy to be hosting this golf get-together again in Zurich. We’ll meet at Otelfingen at 10:00 AM at the entrance, start with a couple of hours at the driving range, and then head to the golf café to relax and socialize. You’re very welcome to join — whether for the full session or just part of it. Please feel free to bring your own clubs, or you can rent them at the venue.

Wilderness Hiking Events Near You

Connect with your local Wilderness Hiking community

Trails & Ales! Blendon Woods Metro Park / Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery
Trails & Ales! Blendon Woods Metro Park / Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery
**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.
Sharon Woods HIKE
Sharon Woods HIKE
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.
Hike Blendon Woods Metro Park
Hike Blendon Woods Metro Park
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.
Sharon Woods HIKE
Sharon Woods HIKE
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.
Hike Char-Mar Ridge Park
Hike Char-Mar Ridge Park
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.
Wild Ohio: The Best of Our Natural Heritage. Jim McCormac
Wild Ohio: The Best of Our Natural Heritage. Jim McCormac
June 17, 2026: Worthington Library. Wild Ohio: The Best of Our Natural Heritage. Jim McCormac. Worthington, Ohio. 7 pm.