Wilderness Hiking

A small NEXUS gathering built around movement and natural conversation. **Important!** We’re moving our full event schedule to our website. 👉 For all upcoming events and details, visit: [https://nexuswerkstatt.com](https://nexuswerkstatt.com)

**Cuddling as Collective Care – all genders** for **LGBTQIA+** **[Book a Ticket](https://wearevillage.org/en/shop/regenerative-touch/w11-2026)** **Member: 15 €** **Regular: 30 €** This Cuddle Puddle offers a safe, consent-based space for people of all genders within the LGBTQIA+ community to experience non-sexual touch, communal connection and rest. Guided exercises support emotional wellbeing, boundaries, and self-awareness. **Cuddle Puddles** are structured, guided spaces where people can experience the benefits of non-sexual touch — such as reduced stress, nervous system regulation, and a deeper sense of belonging. Touch, when consensual and caring, can support emotional resilience and mental health. This **Cuddle Puddle** is open to all genders within the LGBTQIA+ community, creating a space where diverse identities can meet beyond gendered expectations. A non-gender-restricted setting allows for broader empathy, mutual understanding, and connection, while honoring individual boundaries, choice, and safety at all times. **General Information** • This format is for all queer people (LGBTQIA+) interested in experiencing touch in a safe(r) setting. • This is a clothes-on format. • Bring a sheet and towel to cover cushions, mats, or massage tables. • This event will be in English • This event is also available at a reduced member price – but not part of the three-free-monthly-events benefit. • Concession tickets upon written request to **[events@wearevillage.org](mailto:events@wearevillage.org)** **Kuscheln als kollektive Fürsorge – Alle Geschlechter** für **LGBTQIA+** **[Anmeldung](https://wearevillage.org/shop/regenerative-touch/w11-2026)** **Mitglied: 15 €** **Regulärer Preis: 30 €** Dieser Cuddle Puddle bietet einen sicheren, einvernehmlichen Raum für Menschen aller Geschlechter aus der LGBTQIA+ Community, um nicht-sexuelle Nähe, gemeinschaftliche Verbindung und Entspannung zu erleben. Die angeleitete Erfahrung stärkt emotionales Wohlbefinden, Körperwahrnehmung und klare Grenzen. **Cuddle Puddles** sind angeleitete Räume für bewusste, nicht-sexuelle Berührung, die Stress reduzieren, das Nervensystem regulieren und das Gefühl von Zugehörigkeit stärken können. Konsensuelle Nähe unterstützt emotionale Stabilität und psychische Gesundheit. Diese Cuddle Puddle ist für alle Geschlechter innerhalb der LGBTQIA+ Community geöffnet. Ein nicht-geschlechtergetrennter Raum ermöglicht vielfältige Begegnungen jenseits von Rollenbildern und Erwartungen. So entsteht ein Feld für mehr Empathie, gegenseitiges Verständnis und authentische Verbindung, immer auf Basis von Wahlfreiheit, klaren Grenzen und gegenseitigem Respekt **Was ist Regenerative Berührung?** Regenerative Touch ist ein monatlicher Workshop für Queer People, bei dem wir uns gegenseitig helfen, langsamer zu werden, in unseren Körper zu kommen und in einer unterstützenden und nährenden Umgebung die wohltuende Wirkung von regenerativer Berührung erkunden. Berührung, die im täglichen Leben oft übersehen wird, ist ein grundlegendes menschliches Bedürfnis. In diesen Workshops schaffen wir einen Raum, der ausschließlich ihrer regenerativen und heilenden Kraft gewidmet ist, frei von romantischen oder sexuellen Konnotationen. Berührung kommuniziert direkt und erreicht Orte, die Worte nicht erreichen können. Hast du jemals die beruhigende Wirkung einer warmen Umarmung oder einer tröstenden Hand auf deiner Schulter erlebt? Selbst ein kurzes 15-minütiges Handhalten kann zu einer signifikanten Senkung der Herzfrequenz und des Blutdrucks führen und eine starke Entspannungsreaktion signalisieren. Eine einfache 20-sekündige Umarmung kann zu höheren Oxytocinspiegeln führen, dem Hormon, das mit Bindung und Vertrauen verbunden ist. Jeden Monat wird unser trauma-sensitiver Moderator den Abend um Themen wie Präsenz, Regulierung des Nervensystems und emotionale Sicherheit gestalten und sich auf praktisches Erleben anstatt auf zu viele Worte oder Techniken konzentrieren. Es sind keine Vorkenntnisse in Körperarbeit erforderlich – bring einfach deine Neugier mit. **Vorteile** – Erfahre eine Verringerung von Angstzuständen und Depressionen sowie eine erhöhte emotionale Widerstandsfähigkeit durch beruhigende, achtsame Berührung. – Kultiviere wertschätzende Anwesenheit und tiefere Verbindungen zu dir selbst und anderen. – Unterstütze die Heilung von Traumata und setze in einer sicheren, nährenden Umgebung Emotionen frei. – Verbessere deine Stimmung und deine Immunfunktion, indem du Stress reduzierst und Endorphine freisetzt. – Fördere ein Gefühl von Gemeinschaft und Zugehörigkeit durch gemeinsame, nonverbale Erfahrungen. – Ermutige tieferes Mitgefühl und Akzeptanz durch sanften, unterstützenden Kontakt.

DEUTSCH SIEHE UNTEN === Our silent walks are finally here. We challenge you to join us in the next two weeks for a daily silent walk in the morning through Hasenheide. **In a nutshell:** we meet at 07:55 am in front of Little Johns Bikes (1 minute walk away from metro Südstern), and at 08:00 am we start walking together into Hasenheide for a one-hour loop, finishing where we started. It is a completely silent activity, from start to finish, from hello to goodbye, and we ask you to respect that. Even if you come with friends, please do not talk during the walk. **Why should you join these walks?** The idea is to create space for a few simple things. First, a chance to start the day by being outside and seeing morning light for a longer stretch of time. Morning light helps regulate our circadian rhythm, and being outdoors makes that light much more effective than staying inside. Second, a chance to be together without small talk, or any talk at all. We invite you to feel accompanied without having to think about what to say or make conversation. Third, a chance to take some mindful time. While we walk, we invite you to notice the park around you and stay in the moment. What was your favourite bird today? How many bikes passed us? What sound do our steps make on grass, and how does that change on gravel? We will offer one optional daily question or challenge to help you stay grounded. And fourth, a chance to move, which is simply a great way to start the day feeling good. ===== Wir laden euch ein, in den nächsten zwei Wochen jeden Morgen mit uns einen stillen Spaziergang durch Hasenheide zu machen. **Kurz gesagt:** Wir treffen uns um 07:55 vor Little Johns Bikes, nur eine Minute zu Fuß von der Metrostation Südstern entfernt, und um 08:00 gehen wir von dort gemeinsam in Hasenheide und machen dort eine einstündige Runde, die wieder am Ausgangspunkt endet. Es ist eine komplett stille Aktivität, von Anfang bis Ende, und wir bitten euch, das zu respektieren. Auch wenn ihr mit Freund\*innen kommt, sprecht bitte während des Spaziergangs nicht. **Warum mitmachen?** Die Spaziergänge bieten... Die Idee ist, Raum für ein paar einfache Dinge zu schaffen. ... eine Möglichkeit, den Tag draußen zu beginnen und das Morgenlicht über einen längeren Zeitraum mitzunehmen. Morgenlicht hilft dabei, unseren zirkadianen Rhythmus zu regulieren, und draußen ist dieses Licht viel wirksamer als drinnen. ... eine Möglichkeit, zusammen zu sein, ohne Smalltalk oder überhaupt reden zu müssen. Wir laden euch ein, euch begleitet zu fühlen, ohne überlegen zu müssen, worüber ihr sprechen sollt oder wie ihr ein Gespräch anfangen könnt. ... eine Möglichkeit, sich etwas achtsame Zeit zu nehmen. Während wir gehen, laden wir euch ein, den Park um euch herum wahrzunehmen und im Moment zu bleiben. Welcher Vogel hat euch heute am besten gefallen? Wie viele Fahrräder sind an euch vorbeigefahren? Wie klingen unsere Schritte auf Gras, und wie verändert sich das auf Kies? Jeden Tag geben wir euch eine optionale kleine Frage oder Beobachtungsaufgabe mit, die euch helfen kann, geerdet zu bleiben. Und eine Möglichkeit, sich zu bewegen, was einfach ein guter Start in den Tag ist :)

**Village Heart Circle** hosted by **Marco Astolfi** & **Torsten Bless** for **GBTQ men\*** **[free event with registration](https://wearevillage.org/shop/heart-circle/w17-2026)** Are you looking for a space where you can express your feelings and share your experiences in a loving and supportive community of GBTQ men\*? In this circle we can sit together peacefully to speak from the heart and listen with our hearts, honouring the different ways from which we come in a safe and non-judgemental space, honouring the different ways from which we come in a safe and non-judgemental space. The Heart Circle is a practice originated by Native Americans and adopted by the Radical Faeries to build community. **General Information** We open the doors at 7:30 p.m. To protect the integrity of the Heart Circle, we ask that you arrive before 8:00 p.m. **Language**: This event will be in German and/or English depending on participant needs. 🔵 Suchst du nach einem Ort, an dem du deine Gefühle und Erfahrungen teilen kannst, in einer unterstützenden Gemeinschaft von schwulen, bisexuellen, trans und queeren Männern\*? Der Kreis ist ein Ort, an dem wir friedlich zusammensitzen, aus dem Herzen sprechen und mit dem Herzen zuhören können. Ein Ort, an dem wir die unterschiedlichen Lebensumstände, aus denen wir kommen, respektieren, ohne zu urteilen. Der Heart Circle ist eine Praxis, die von den Ureinwohnern Nordamerikas stammt und von den Radical Faeries übernommen wurde, um Gemeinschaft zu bilden. **Hinweise** Wir öffnen die Türen um 19.30 Uhr. Um die Unversehrtheit des Heart Circles zu bewahren, bitten wir dich, vor 20:00 Uhr zu erscheinen. **Sprache**: Je nach Bedürfnissen der Gruppe werden wir Deutsch und/oder Englisch sprechen.

What happens when incense and wine share the same air? In this intimate session, we pair natural incense with selected wines to explore how scent shapes taste, memory, and mood. As incense burns gently in the background, each sip unfolds differently — softer, rounder, more present. This is not a typical tasting, but a ritual of attention, guided slowly and intentionally. **Les Amis** is a women-only community of friendly souls. We provide access to hundreds of experiences that explore your passions and connect you with other event participants. **Check our website to learn more, and apply to join our community and events**: [lesamis.cc/apply](https://www.lesamis.cc/apply)

2 EURO DONATION FEE PER PERSON IS REQUIRED (on site, in cash), to pay back the Meetup subscription fees and support my Events. READ THE DESCRIPTION WITH THE INFO (IMPORTANT). WHATSAPP LINK BELOW 📳​ We take the RE1 train that arrives to Götz at 10,50 🚉😀: https://maps.app.goo.gl/c46xqArPdU4Fjtzx9 The train stops in several Berlin stations, as well as in Potsdam. I attach to the images screenshots that show the stations with the time 🚉⏱️ FYI: I get on the train in Werder Havel Once we reach Götz, we start our Hike, following this path: [https://www.komoot.com/tour/2175122193](https://www.komoot.com/tour/2175122193) Along our route there is a splendid panoramic tower 🗼 (see image attached). Bring your own food🍔 and drinks🥤. Route distance: 15 kms Pace: about 14 minutes per km (know by experience with my events) Breaks: 2 (about 1/3 and 2/3 of the way through) The Hike will end reaching the station of Groß Kreuz 🙂 In Groß Kreuz one train per hour is available to come back to Berlin (minute 15 of each hour). We can spontaneously decide to stay together longer at the end, going to some bakery close to Groß Kreuz station 🥐 ☕🥐 ☕ Of course it depends how we are synchronized with the next train. People can decide if stay longer together or shorter, taking the first available train to come back. Everyone is free 🙂🙂🙂 I do not provide a "personal support" for people who do not take the indicated train. You are responsible to check for the weather and decide if come or not. Thanks for understanding. If you have to contact me, make it via Whatsapp, not here on Meetup. WHATSAPP COMMUNITY 💬 to find each other (join it, we use this group to find and synchronize us, as well as post photos) [https://docs.google.com/document/d/157uLVXObKt1a4NqqvPa09NJW-050YBwHLW-7DbOD8R8/](https://docs.google.com/document/d/157uLVXObKt1a4NqqvPa09NJW-050YBwHLW-7DbOD8R8/)

**Outdoor – Berlin Wall Trail – Section 14 From Gropiusstadt to Johannisthal** with ***Harms*** and ***Thomas*** **Start: 11:00 a.m. at Lipschitzallee subway station (U7)** **LGBTQIA +** **[Free with registration](https://wearevillage.org/en/shop/village-outdoor/w17-2026)** Hike along the Berlin Wall Trail, past fields and nature, with a view from the Dörferblick viewpoint. Along the way, we pass historical sites and the Rudow-Altglienicke Landscape Park. The approximately 12 km long tour ends at Stubenrauchstraße. In April, we’ll set off together on the Berlin Wall Trail – along Berlin’s southeasternmost city limits. Our starting point is the Lipschitzallee U-Bahn station. From there, the trail leads us first through a quiet residential area and out to the Berlin Wall Trail. Soon, the view opens up across the vast fields in the south of the city – and with a bit of luck, we’ll be accompanied by the rapeseed blossoms, which bathe the landscape in a vibrant yellow. A special highlight awaits us at Dörferblick: The verdant hill rises approximately 86 meters and rewards us with an impressive view as far as Großziethen and the BER Airport. We continue to the former border crossing at Waltersdorfer Straße – a historically significant site from the time of German division. Afterward, we’ll enjoy nature in the Rudow-Altglienicke Landscape Park before crossing the Rudower Höhe along the motorway. After crossing the Teltow Canal, we continue our hike along the former border strip between the water and the road to our destination at the Stubenrauchstraße bridge. Since there are no places to stop for refreshments along the way, please bring enough food and drinks for a picnic. **What’s Village Outdoor?** Village outdoor Events are monthly meetups for the we are village community and their friends to enjoy outdoor activities in and around Berlin. Activities include forest hikes, bike tours, swimming in lakes, sightseeing, and kayaking. Each month features a free and easy walk or hike in Berlin or its surrounding areas, accessible by public transport. 🔵 **Outdoor – Berliner Mauerweg – Abschnitt 14 Von der Gropiusstadt bis Johannisthal** mit ***Harms*** und ***Thomas*** **Start:** 11 Uhr, U-Bahnhof Lipschitzallee (U7), Vorplatz Rückfahrt: Bus M11, 172 Massantebrücke Fur **LGBTQIA+** **[Kostenlos mit Anmeldung](https://wearevillage.org/shop/village-outdoor/w17-2026/)** Wanderung entlang des Berliner Mauerwegs vorbei an Feldern und Natur mit Aussicht von der Anhöhe Dörferblick. Unterwegs passieren wir historische Orte und den Landschaftspark Rudow-Altglienicke. Die ca. 12 km lange Tour endet an der Stubenrauchstraße Im April machen wir uns gemeinsam auf den Weg entlang des Berliner Mauerwegs – entlang der südöstlichsten Stadtgrenze Berlins. Unser Startpunkt ist der U-Bahnhof Lipschitzallee. Von dort führt uns der Weg zunächst durch ein ruhiges Wohngebiet hinaus zum Berliner Mauerweg. Schon bald öffnet sich der Blick über die weiten Felder im Süden der Stadt – und mit etwas Glück begleitet uns die Rapsblüte, die die Landschaft in ein leuchtendes Gelb taucht. Ein besonderes Highlight erwartet uns am Dörferblick: Die begrünte Anhöhe ragt etwa 86 Meter empor und belohnt uns mit einer beeindruckenden Aussicht bis nach Großziethen und zum Flughafen BER. Weiter geht es zum ehemaligen Grenzübergang an der Waltersdorfer Straße Grenzübergang – ein geschichtsträchtiger Ort aus der Zeit der deutschen Teilung. Anschließend genießen wir die Natur im Landschaftspark Rudow-Altglienicke, bevor wir entlang der Autobahn die Rudower Höhe passieren. Nach der Überquerung des Teltowkanal wandern wir auf dem ehemaligen Grenzstreifen zwischen Wasser und Straße weiter bis zu unserem Ziel an der Brücke Stubenrauchstraße. Da es unterwegs keine Einkehrmöglichkeiten gibt, bringt euch bitte ausreichend Proviant für ein Picknick mit.

Please note: This hike includes **at least three stops of roughly 30 to 45 minutes** at farms and gardens that mostly sell food, coffee, cake and of course - fruit wine! Therefore, expect it to last longer than usual hikes. Not far from the starting point, the bus stop "Plessower Eck", the first garden awaits us. We then continue along the Panoramaweg, discovering more of the local delicacies. Arriving on the pitoresque former fisherman's island of Werder, we explore the old town from where we head to Werder station to take the train back to Berlin. Meet us in the **first car of the train RE1**, departing from **Alexanderplatz station, platform 2, at 10:54 AM,** arriving at Potsdam main station at 11:29. **Please arrive early at Alexanderplatz station, as ongoing construction work may cause delays or disruptions when accessing the platform**. The RE1 also stops at **Berlin Ostkreuz at 10:44 and Berlin Hauptbahnhof at 10:59**, along with other stations. Unless you are subscribed to the Deutschlandticket, you'll need a ticket to Plessower Eck and back from Werder(Havel) Please note: * As a grown-up, you are responsible for yourself. * **Bring a plastic cup (no glass) for the fruit wine!** * Come prepared for cold and windy weather. * Wear appropriate footwear, we may come across some muddy sections. * Forecasts predict low chance of rain, but you never know... * Bring enough water, food and some cash with you. * Please be fair and only RSVP if you are sure you can make it and update if your plans change. See you on Saturday!

***Discover the mystical sunken birch forest, the valley and its unspoilt nature while hiking along river Briese.*** **HOW DO I JOIN THIS EVENT?** Click on link below to get complete info and to sign up for this event by getting your ticket. [https://urbanaturetravel.com/event/briesetal-fairytale-forest-25apr2026](https://urbanaturetravel.com/event/briesetal-fairytale-forest-25apr2026) **SPECIAL OFFER FOR NEW USERS** * 10% New User Discount using promo code: **MEETUP10** * Valid for this trip or any other trips available on our website. **WHY GO?** The Briesetal is one of Brandenburgs most scenic valleys, formed by river Briese. The quiet nature preservation area is home to mischievous beavers whose dams created a sunken birch forest. The valley is still dominated by unspoilt nature, seemingly untouched by humans. It's only a 40 minute train ride north of Berlin, making it the perfect day trip getaway from the city's hustling. Following the meandering river we traverse the mystical forest, walk on wooden planks through moors and marshes and explore natural habitats and endemic wildlife. On this hike, immerse yourself into nature’s wonder! Have you ever observed the tiny details of the outdoors? Such as the intricate veins on the back of a leaf? Or the delicate edges of flowers’ petals? Or the movement of a cheeky squirrel? On this walk, you will have the chance to truly connect with the natural world around you. No experience or preparation is needed, just your curiosity. You will be guided through every step of the way. **TRIP DETAILS** **Distance:** 13 km walking, 7 hours from start to closing, multiple break times **Hiking Difficulty:** Easy – walking on marked paths / dirt roads, mostly flat terrain, relaxed pace **Kid Friendly:** Yes **Pet Friendly:** Yes **What is included?** * Community Leader and Guide for the entire duration. * Guided hike. * Access to Google photos album dedicated for this trip for sharing all your amazing pictures and videos from the trip. * Access to a WhatsApp group for the confirmed participants. **Note:** Please contact us immediately if you do not have WhatsApp and we can make alternate arrangements from our end to ensure you do not miss out on any communication. **FOR FUTURE TRIP UPDATES:** Please do join our WhatsApp / Telegram channel for updates about our future trips including possible early bird discounts, contests etc. 1. [WhatsApp Channel](https://go.unt.global/travelgroup) 2. [Telegram Channel](https://t.me/urbanaturetravel)

***Canoe around the Spreewald river delta. Charismatic, quiet and sprinkled with the occasional beer garden. Enjoy nature at the UNESCO reserve.*** **HOW DO I JOIN THIS TRIP?** Click on link below to get complete info and to sign up for this event by getting your ticket. [https://urbanaturetravel.com/event/spreewald-canoe-26apr2026](https://urbanaturetravel.com/event/spreewald-canoe-26apr2026) **SPECIAL OFFER FOR NEW USERS** * 10% New User Discount using promo code: **MEETUP10** * Valid for this trip or any other trips available on our website. **WHY GO?** Join us for an unforgettable adventure in the beautiful **Lübbenau/Spreewald** region, just a stone's throw away from the vibrant city of Berlin, where we'll embark on a thrilling canoe (mix of Canoe's or Kayak) tour through the **UNESCO biosphere reserve**. Immerse yourself in the untouched nature as we paddle through the winding waterways, surrounded by lush greenery and enchanting landscapes. This is a unique opportunity to explore the hidden gems of the **Spreewald** region, known for its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. During the tour, our experienced guides will share fascinating stories and insights about the area, making this journey not just visually stunning but also intellectually enriching. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for a refreshing escape from the city, this canoe tour is perfect for everyone. Don't miss out on this incredible experience! Book your spot now and get ready to paddle your way through the wonders of the **Spreewald** biosphere reserve. **TRIP DETAILS** **Meeting Location and Time:** * **Option A - Joining from Berlin:** Meet in Berlin Central Train Station (Berlin Hbf) at 8:00 am. * **Option B - Joining at Lübbenau:** Meet outside Lübbenau Train Station at 9:30 am. **Note:** The exact platform in Berlin Hbf will be advised the day before the trip in the WhatsApp group for this trip. Please advise if you do not have WhatsApp and can make alternate arrangement to keep you in the loop. **Finishing Location and Time:** * **Option A - Finishing in Berlin:** Berlin Hbf at 7:00pm * **Option B - Finishing in Lübbenau:** Lübbenau Train Station at 5:00 pm **Distance:** 6 km of canoeing, 7 hours from start to closing, incl., around 3 - 4 hours of paddling and multiple breaks. **Hiking Difficulty:** Easy - walking on marked paths, relaxed pace / easy canoe paddling **Kid Friendly:** Yes **What is Included?** * Community Leader and Guide for the entire duration. * Guiding while canoeing. * **Canoe rental.** * Life jackets provided (if required). * Transportation to and from Berlin (based on the ticket option selected). * Access to Google photos album dedicated for this trip for sharing all your amazing pictures and videos from the trip. * Access to a WhatsApp group for the confirmed participants. **Note:** Please contact us immediately if you do not have WhatsApp and we can make alternate arrangements from our end to ensure you do not miss out on any communication. **Additional Things of Note:** * Space is very limited for this trip as we only have a very limited number of Canoe's. **WHAT IS THE PLAN?** **8:00 AM -** Meet in Berlin Central Train Station (exact location to be advised in WhatsApp group for the confirmed participants) **8:20 AM** \- Board train for Lubbenau \(Spreewald: RE 2 to Cottbus\) **9:30 AM** \- Get off at Lubbenau and head to boat pickup location **10:00 AM** \- Arrive at boat pickup location **10:30 AM** \- Start canoeing **1:00 PM** \- Break for lunch in an old pub with a beer garden **2:00 PM -** Start canoeing after lunch **4:00 PM -** Get back to boat pickup location to drop off the boats. **4:30 PM** \- Start heading towards Lubbennau Train Station **5:00 PM** \- Arrive in Lubbenau Train Station **5:30 PM** \- Catch train for Berlin **7:00 PM** \- Arrive in Berlin Central Train Station \(Berlin hbf\) **FOR FUTURE TRIP UPDATES:** Please do join our WhatsApp / Telegram channel for updates about our future trips including possible early bird discounts, contests etc. 1. [WhatsApp Channel](https://go.unt.global/travelgroup) 2. [Telegram Channel](https://t.me/urbanaturetravel)

**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.

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. 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, 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.