Wilderness Hiking

A new year is a small threshold nothing more than a moment on a calendar, yet somehow it invites us to step a little beyond what’s familiar. To stand where the ground feels less certain, and where something new might begin. I’m opening my place in Prague 9 with my friends, for a simple gathering to share that moment together. Space is limited, so it’s a first‑come, first‑saved kind of evening. We’re already around 10–12 people out of the meetup group, and there’s room for a few more curious souls. Maybe I’ll see you here. Or maybe we’ll cross paths somewhere along the way. Either way, the year is waiting and it’s always more interesting when we step into it together. Everyone brings their own drink or something small to eat, and we’ll put everything on the table to share. I’ll prepare some French pancakes to add a little warmth to the evening.

Who can attend this meetup: The tour is an introduction to Prague and is mainly for expats and visitors to our city but everybody who would like to join is invited. ***Important***, please also fill in the booking form on our [website](https://freewalkingtourprague.eu/en/schedule) if you are planning to come (otherwise we will not expect you). Description: Meet us by the Powder Tower, the historical gate to the Old Town and starting point of the Royal Route. Then have an educative walk through the narrow and picturesque streets of the historical center of Prague. Enjoy the unique diversity of architectural styles from Gothic to Art Nouveau. See some of the most interesting sites and get to know fascinating facts and legends of the 1000-year old capital of Bohemia. End the tour at the riverside 5 minutes away from the Charles Bridge, from which you can continue the tour on your own (or again with us) towards Malá Strana or Prague Castle. ====== Meeting point: We will be standing by the Powder Tower at the side of the Namestí Republiky square with a green umbrella in hand :) Map: https://goo.gl/maps/tzqKpZ2945S2 Price: there is no fixed price, you will be able to decide yourself how much you value the tour. If you don't know how much is best (and can afford it) we recommend 200Kč, but it really depends on you how much you contribute. Join us also on our [Facebook profile](https://www.facebook.com/freewalkingtoursprague/) :) and if you are travelling to other cities check out our friends at the [Free Tour Community website](https://freetourcommunity.com/). For any questions, please contact us at info@freewalkingtourprague.eu. Unfortunately, the meetup application does not always send us phone notifications. Reminder - only people who booked on our [official free walking tour website](https://freewalkingtourprague.eu/en/schedule) can join the tour and if the tour shows fully booked on the website it means there are no free spots. The meetup list doesn't count in this case. We look forward to meeting you, Michal, Amanda, Lana, Iva & Chris

Celebrate 2025 with fellow internationals right under Charles Bridge, with Prague Castle in front of you and fireworks lighting up the river. ✨🌉 Not in a random underground club, but at one of Prague’s most iconic NYE locations with breathtaking views! 😊 What to expect: • 🌉 Direct views of Charles Bridge & Prague Castle • 🎆 Midnight outside with fireworks over the river • 🎧 Two music stages + open terrace • 🍸 Fast bars + open kitchen all night • 🌍 Big international & local crowd Tickets can be grabbed below 👇 https://goout.net/cs/lavka-nye-2026-charles-bridge-terrace-club/szwxudy/

2025 wasn’t an easy year. But it was the year **ON** was born — and that means everything to us. Before the fireworks, before the rush, let’s gather for a **small, friendly NYE warm-up** with good music, good drinks, and familiar faces. Expect **funky house vibes**, positive energy, and a space to reset together and get ready for an **energetic 2026** 🖤 We’ll wrap things up early so we can all step outside and catch the fireworks on time 🎆 Thank you for being part of our community — truly. Come say hi, have a drink, and start the night **ON**. 📍 Korunní 17, Vinohrady #onbar #nyeprague #nyewarmup #communitybar #funkyhouse #hello2026

We invite you to an unforgettable evening full of games, fun and a great atmosphere! *May your year be full of epic moves, sucessful strategies and most importantly ... minimal rule arguments!* Come and end the year with us the way you like it best: at the table, with a great group of people and great board games. Entrance fee: 200 CZK/person - (paid on site) What to look forward to Welcome drink Tournaments for small prizes, Codenames, Pictomania, Shit Happens, and many other games. Friendly atmosphere until the morning Reservations recommended - capacity is limited! Reservations at: web: [RESERVATIONS](www.deskohub.cz/en-US/reservation) mail: info@deskohub.cz We look forward to seeing you!

Hi all! **To begin with with the most important note, this hike is organized from Plzeň (I'm not coming to Prague)**, but since it is not so complicated to join us (just takes longer...), I thought perhaps someone would like to join us from Prague, too. So there is this option 🙂 If you feel like joining us, you have to take the R train towards Železná Ruda - leaving Praha-Hlavní nádraží at 7:05. We would get on the train and join you in Plzeň-Hlavní nádraží. The same for the way back, I (and possibly the others from Plzeň) would get off again in Plzeň, and you could just continue further to Prague. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- All information as follows: Let's start the new year in the best possible way! Join us for a winter hike to the lovely Šumava mountains. 🥾 Highlights of the hike: \- winter hike in the Šumava Protected Lanscape Area \- the largest natural lake of Czechia \(yes\, the two small lakes\!\) Here is the approximate trail https://mapy.com/s/dutocacopu Nevertheless, I reserve the right to adjust the trail depending on the group and weather conditions :-) Wear **waterproof** **shoes** good for hiking! **Take** **food** for most of the day with you, there won't be anything to get in the forest. Taking a bottle with warm tea is also recommended. The pace is always adjusted to the group, but please note that it does involve some small climbing in a winter season, so a decent condition is required (being used to hiking/walking a bit). COST: Approximately 170 Kč for train tickets. As always, if you know about someone interested, feel free to take them with you. This event is free of charge, but any **contribution for organizing and to cover the subscription fees is more than welcome** (100+ CZK is recommended, but it's totally up to you how much you think the trip was worth, your financial possibilities etc.). I can get tickets for everyone from Plzeň if you let me know in advance. You will pay at the end of the trip. Planned arrival back at 19:30 (or possibly a bit earlier). It's okay if your plans change, but please also change your status accordingly. I wish everyone a great start into 2026, and I'm looking forward to seeing you! Jirka 🙏🤗

Dear Adventurers, Let's see if we can score some snowy scenery without venturing too far or climbing too high. In other words, without investing too much effort 😁 ⚠️ Uneven slippery trails -> gear up accordingly; spikes may be handy, especially for the super steep descent at the end ⚠️ Expect a somewhat slower pace than usual, about 4.5 km/h. Apologies for that (and maybe pack an extra layer to keep warm) 😕 📍 **Trail** 25 km • ↑ 779 m • ↓ 712 m [MAP OF THE TRAIL](https://mapy.com/s/nehugodave) **🚌 Travel** → **[RJ bus](https://idos.cz/vlakyautobusymhdvse/spojeni/prehled/?p=Fyb5SSWpsOpfNdTbad2ENIP7nOB12u:w.z1hOCr78r:FTxWQvrEFda8VHlwnmDx3ooNV:Pf99MI-) at 8:00** – Praha Černý Most > Liberec Fügnerova + local bus. ← **[Bus 700](https://idos.cz/vlakyautobusymhdvse/spojeni/prehled/?p=Fyb5SSWpsOpfNdTbad2ENNwzC2DuLcG2VcbUq:C0nzzGCnkgP9z0yHf9qrCvXoDcX76xlIV9I7R37a4J68q3LA--)** **at 16:47** – Tanvald Centrum > Praha Černý Most. Please buy your bus tickets in advance, except the local one. [🛍️](https://emojipedia.org/shopping-bags/) **Gear & Paraphernalia** – Weather-appropriate outfit (layers layers layers, windproof, waterproof), footwear with good tread, **spikes** if you have them – Tea/coffee/water and enough food for the day to keep you going – Map app on your phone [☎️](https://emojipedia.org/telephone/) **Contact** +420 732 570 684 (Elena) You join at your own risk. By joining our events, you accept our Terms and Conditions. Looking forward! 😊

Hi All, Come and join us for social running and a coffee! We meet at the main gate of Vystaviste - tram stop Vystaviste Holesovice. We will run in Stromovka. Usually we run around 50mins and it is up to everyone how many kilometres. We welcome all levels of runner. We can all run together or, if there is more of us, we can split into groups and at the end of the run we all meet close to the starting point to go for a coffee to a nice local coffee place (where they also sell cakes and great chocolate). If the weather is great, we can also just sit in one of the outside coffee placces in Stromovka and enjoy the sun. This is where we meet: http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/7/7/3/1/600_447930513.jpeg

🎨 **Art Night at Sophie’s Hostel** 🍷 **Sip. Paint. Express.** Join us for a one-of-a-kind **Art Night** where creativity flows as freely as the drinks! Whether you're a seasoned artist or just looking to try something new, this is your chance to **draw anything you want**, in a relaxed and inspiring setting. 🎨 All painting supplies are provided for just **150 CZK (Pay on arrival either by cash or card)** — or feel free to **bring your own** and join in for free. 🍷 Our **amazing bar** will be open all night, so grab your favorite drink and let the creativity pour. 🕒 There’s **no time limit** — stay as long as you’re vibing. 💫 It’s not about being perfect — it’s about **expressing your feelings through art**. Whether you come solo or with friends, **Art Night at Sophie’s Hostel** is your space to relax, sip, create and meet new people.

Who can attend this meetup: The tour is an introduction to Prague and is mainly for expats and visitors to our city but everybody who would like to join is invited. ***Important***, please also fill in the booking form on our [website](https://freewalkingtourprague.eu/en/schedule) if you are planning to come (otherwise we will not expect you). Description: Meet us by the Powder Tower, the historical gate to the Old Town and starting point of the Royal Route. Then have an educative walk through the narrow and picturesque streets of the historical center of Prague. Enjoy the unique diversity of architectural styles from Gothic to Art Nouveau. See some of the most interesting sites and get to know fascinating facts and legends of the 1000-year old capital of Bohemia. End the tour at the riverside 5 minutes away from the Charles Bridge, from which you can continue the tour on your own (or again with us) towards Malá Strana or Prague Castle. ====== Meeting point: We will be standing by the Powder Tower at the side of the Namestí Republiky square with a green umbrella in hand :) Map: https://goo.gl/maps/tzqKpZ2945S2 Price: there is no fixed price, you will be able to decide yourself how much you value the tour. If you don't know how much is best (and can afford it) we recommend 200Kč, but it really depends on you how much you contribute. Join us also on our [Facebook profile](https://www.facebook.com/freewalkingtoursprague/) :) and if you are travelling to other cities check out our friends at the [Free Tour Community website](https://freetourcommunity.com/). For any questions, please contact us at info@freewalkingtourprague.eu. Unfortunately, the meetup application does not always send us phone notifications. Reminder - only people who booked on our [official free walking tour website](https://freewalkingtourprague.eu/en/schedule) can join the tour and if the tour shows fully booked on the website it means there are no free spots. The meetup list doesn't count in this case. We look forward to meeting you, Michal, Amanda, Lana, Iva & Chris

Hello Runners, It is that time of the year again. New beginnings. Fresh start. Clean slate. 365 days of 2026 left, and everything is possible. Whether you want to become the best runner you have ever been, or finally put on running shoes and jog the streets of Prague in the company of other lovely runners, you are invited to come and run with us! And if you have any leftovers from Silvester's celebrations and you would like to share them, bring those as well. This is entirely optional. This time we will meet at JZP metro station. You can leave things at my place. The route we will run will be New Year's surprise :) See you there!

Sing for yourself, Sing for someone, Sing for the moment 🙂Choose your song & let your bathroom artist out :D coz everyone can sing... 👉 Every Friday, we welcome you to join our International Karaoke Nights. Singing or not singing, we guarantee you a lot of fun, making new friends, and meeting international people. 🏅We organise the biggest social events in the Czech Republic where you enjoy amazing cocktails and a variety of drinks, with happy hours waiting for you. 📍LOCATION Tequila Tales Bar & Music Club Újezd 19 118 00 Prague, Czech Republic (Nearest tram stop- Hellichova & Ujezd) ❓Questions❓ Write to https://www.instagram.com/tequilatales_prg/

***(She loves me!)* A Brief History of Quarry Trails** [Quarry Trails Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/quarry-trails/) traces its origins to a vast limestone quarry operated by the Marble Cliff Quarry Company starting in the early 20th century. The site, located along the Scioto River west of downtown, supplied crushed stone for local construction projects and roads throughout central Ohio. Operations peaked mid-century, with massive excavation creating deep pits and steep cliffs that reshaped the landscape. By the 1980s, demand declined, and the southern section of the quarry closed (with the northern section of the quarry remaining in operation to this day by a separate company), leaving behind scarred terrain and abandoned equipment. Environmental concerns arose as the area became a dumping ground and off-road playground for locals. Columbus Metro Parks began eyeing the property in the 1990s for potential reclamation into public green space. In 2015, Metro Parks acquired the initial 180 acres from the quarry's owners, marking a pivotal step toward transformation. Thrive Companies, a local developer, partnered in the deal to build adjacent housing while funding park improvements. Cleanup efforts removed tons of debris, stabilized cliffs, and addressed water quality in the flooded quarries. Planners envisioned a mix of adventure and preservation, incorporating the site's industrial remnants as features. Community input from nearby Grandview Heights and Hilliard residents shaped early designs. The project gained momentum with state and federal grants supporting habitat restoration. The park officially opened its first phase in November 2021, featuring 3.5 miles of trails, a waterfall overlook, and climbing walls on the quarry faces. Visitors quickly embraced the unique terrain, with mountain biking loops and a 25-foot waterfall drawing crowds from across the metro area. Metro Parks added a canoe/kayak launch on the Scioto River, connecting to the city's broader trail network. Dog parks and picnic areas rounded out the amenities, making it a year-round destination. Expansion continued with land acquisitions pushing the total toward 600 acres. By 2023, the park hosted events like guided hikes and birdwatching tours. Ongoing development includes a planned adventure center with zip lines and more extensive single-track trails set for completion in the coming years. Metro Parks collaborates with conservation groups to plant native species and monitor wildlife returning to the reclaimed quarries. The site now serves as an educational hub, with interpretive signs explaining its quarrying past and ecological recovery. Local schools incorporate field trips to study geology and restoration science. Quarry Trails exemplifies Columbus's shift from industrial reuse to innovative urban parks. It stands as the newest addition to the Metro Parks system, complementing favorites like Scioto Audubon and Highbanks. Today, Quarry Trails continues evolving, with future phases adding connections to the Olentangy Trail and more water access points. Annual visitor numbers have surged, boosting nearby businesses in the evolving west side neighborhoods. The park's success has inspired similar reclamation projects elsewhere in the region. It highlights how Columbus balances growth with green space preservation. Residents enjoy a one-of-a-kind spot that honors the area's gritty history while offering modern recreation. Quarry Trails remains a testament to community vision and adaptive reuse in our city. ***(She loves me not.)* A Briefer History of Valentine's Day** The origins of Valentine's Day trace back to ancient Rome and the festival of Lupercalia, celebrated in mid-February to honor fertility and purification rites. During this raucous event, young men drew names of women from a box in a matchmaking lottery, often leading to pairings or marriages. By the late 5th century, Pope Gelasius I officially replaced Lupercalia with St. Valentine's Day on February 14 to Christianize the pagan holiday. Although several early Christian martyrs were named Valentine, the most commonly associated figure is a 3rd-century Roman priest who secretly married couples against Emperor Claudius II's ban on young men marrying, believing single soldiers fought better. Legend claims Valentine was imprisoned and later executed on February 14, around 269–270 AD. The romantic associations with Valentine's Day emerged much later, during the Middle Ages. The pivotal moment came in the late 14th century when Geoffrey Chaucer, in his poem "Parlement of Foules" (c. 1381), linked St. Valentine's Day with courtship, writing that birds chose their mates on this date. This literary connection spread rapidly among the English and French nobility, transforming the saint's feast day into a celebration of romantic love. By the 15th century, lovers began exchanging handwritten notes called "valentines," often containing verses or simple declarations of affection. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Valentine's Day became increasingly commercialized, especially in England and later the United States. The introduction of printed valentines in the 1840s, pioneered by Esther Howland in America, turned personal notes into mass-produced cards adorned with lace, ribbons, and Cupid imagery. Factories began producing elaborate cards, and the tradition of giving flowers (especially roses), chocolates, and jewelry took hold during the Victorian era. Today, February 14 is one of the most widely celebrated secular holidays worldwide, generating billions in spending on cards, candy, flowers, and romantic dinners. While still officially the feast day of Saint Valentine in some Christian traditions, the modern version has largely shed its religious roots in favor of universal expressions of love and friendship. From ancient fertility rites to global commercial phenomenon, Valentine's Day has evolved dramatically over two millennia while retaining its core focus on human connection. ***(She loves me!)* Map of the Park** Here is a [Map of Quarry Trails](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Quarry-Trails_JUNE-2025_1980px-Web.jpg). ***(She loves me not.)* Summary** For this hike, we'll do a loop of the park. This will be about four miles. Now, this won't be one of our longer hikes. However, in my experience, Quarry Trails tends to wear people out more quickly than other parks. I suspect this is because most of the trails are either paved or heavily graveled (no surprise at a park which abuts an active stone quarry), with some elevation changes along the way. ***(She loves me!)* Where We'll Meet** Quarry Trails has multiple entrances, but none of them are connected internally within the park. So you must drive to the correct one for this event. Set your GPS to [2319 Quarry Trails Dr, Hilliard, OH 43026](https://www.google.com/maps/place/2319+Quarry+Trails+Dr,+Hilliard,+OH+43026/@39.9998462,-83.0873077,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x883891dd76f5eedf:0xf1cb9d34c1069580!8m2!3d39.9997868!4d-83.0872621!16s%2Fg%2F11y17k0ms5?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), or use the map pin I've provided here. Do not just type "Quarry Trails" into Google Maps and expect it to take you to the correct place. It probably won't. We will meet in the parking lot of the Lake Area. The best entrance to this parking lot will be your first left off of Quarry Trails Dr after Gunnison Dr (which will be on your right). I recommend taking a few minutes and looking at Maps before you head out to make sure you know where you're going. ***(So walk with me...)* Restrooms and Water Fountains** There are a few port-a-potties sprinkled throughout the park (including two at the parking lot we'll be meeting at), and the Park Office, roughly in the center of the park and which we'll pass twice on this hike, has restrooms and a water fountain. This is the only water fountain, though, at Quarry Trails. ***(At Trails Quarry!*)** **After the Hike** Afterward, we'll head over to [Johnnie's Tavern](https://johnniestavern614.com/) for [drinks](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Johnnie's+Tavern/@39.993202,-83.0903169,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m8!1e2!3m6!1sCIABIhAulLarLYZC3hY_vRGwoakV!2e10!3e12!6shttps:%2F%2Flh3.googleusercontent.com%2Fgps-cs-s%2FAG0ilSzkwnMN29-lrgzp50Rzeaq5jXCGM1xLS1poH0Mc52-E9NYBvdS99ei7zGmlAYJZyk8OeNW5YvS7agj8M2Bom4ri1m_-NcJiT-LQUDphkS-SB5Vq8JhO-8NSP-_m80HeLz4-pGhjrwhuBKSv%3Dw146-h195-k-no!7i4284!8i5712!4m7!3m6!1s0x883891c4d61ba04d:0x5134f225cbf678bf!8m2!3d39.9932439!4d-83.0902078!10e9!16s%2Fg%2F11c1p57s3t?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) and [food](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Johnnie's+Tavern/@39.993202,-83.0903169,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m8!1e2!3m6!1sCIABIhB5lD4Uly_4O9BjNH4r3ywB!2e10!3e12!6shttps:%2F%2Flh3.googleusercontent.com%2Fgps-cs-s%2FAG0ilSy7tQcc7CtCeuUAKwEVJoxtOs8Ycohjy3mGZZOC_kJVdB8wEaGuC4-p5z_jxn2JnpmSEkh_HG7Aok_ZPEgmK57rEBqNIPH8J5tiyAP5vbrRYkUso_fKTkW5vJc47UusNoGiRzs2Vf0m1JcV%3Dw146-h195-k-no!7i4284!8i5712!4m7!3m6!1s0x883891c4d61ba04d:0x5134f225cbf678bf!8m2!3d39.9932439!4d-83.0902078!10e9!16s%2Fg%2F11c1p57s3t?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). Its actual address is [3503 Trabue Rd, Columbus, OH 43204](https://www.google.com/maps/place/3503+Trabue+Rd,+Columbus,+OH+43204/@39.9932491,-83.090227,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x883891c4d6199677:0x1fda03b0add81e7c!8m2!3d39.9932491!4d-83.090227!16s%2Fg%2F11c14yf3m6?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), and it's only about a five minute drive from where we'll be parked at Quarry Trails. We should be at the tavern by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to meet us for drinks.

Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area. If trail conditions are poor, we will use the Multipurpose Path.

Hi ladies. Let's hike the multi-purpose trail - approximately 4 miles. Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area.

Join us at Highbanks for sledding, snacks, hot cocoa, and nature 🛷🌲🌈 Bring your own sled. No snow? We’ll enjoy the nearby trails together instead. This event is dog and kid-friendly and accessible to wheeled aids. [Please register here for more details closer to the event ](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScn3P7WpBONMJXiL6v_KrVGj688NLtmeUl81rIMt_6GHe8jEQ/viewform?usp=preview)