Wilderness Hiking
Meet other local people interested in Wilderness Hiking: share experiences, inspire and encourage each other! Join a Wilderness Hiking group.
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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
Stadtwanderweg 6: Gentle Hills & a Start to Spring
Hi everyone!
On **Saturday, March 7, 2026**, I’m planning a relaxed early-spring hike along **Stadtwanderweg 6 – Zugberg & Maurer Wald** in the south of Vienna.
This route takes us through quiet forest paths, gentle hills, and open clearings with beautiful views towards the Vienna Basin and the Wienerwald.
It’s a lovely mix of nature, culture, and calm atmosphere.
**What makes this hike special**
⛪ Wotruba Church (Kirche zur Heiligsten Dreifaltigkeit)
🌌Sterngarten Georgenberg (Open-Air Planetarium)
🌄Zugberg & Mitzi-Langer-Wand
🌳 Maurer Wald & Eichwiese
⛪ Bergkirche Rodaun
This hike is ideal if you want a moderate workout without technical difficulty.
The trails are well marked and mostly easy, but you should feel comfortable walking for several hours.
**Meeting Point**
📍**Rodaun – Tram 60 Terminus**
09:00 a.m.
Please arrive a few minutes early so we can start calmly together.
**Hike Details**
Duration: approx. 4 hours (pure walking time)
Distance: approx. 13–15 km (depending on small variations)
Elevation: approx. 350–400 m ascent
Difficulty: Easy (technically), requires basic fitness
Pace: Comfortable and social, with regular short breaks
https://www.bergfex.at/sommer/wien/touren/wanderung/870506,stadtwanderweg-6--zugberg--maurer-wald-lt-beschilderung
**Group Pace and Staying Together**
**Friendly reminder:** This is a social hike, not a speed competition.
We will walk at a relaxed group pace. If you prefer to walk much faster, this might not be the right hike for you.
Staying roughly together helps with navigation, safety, and group feeling.
Thank you for helping create a supportive and inclusive atmosphere for everyone.
**Practical Notes**
I’ll send a weather update on Thursday evening to everyone who’s registered. Early March can feel like spring — or like winter returning for one last surprise.
🥾 Wear sturdy hiking shoes
🧥 Dress in layers
💧 Bring at least 1 liter of water
🥪 Bring your own snacks (there is no planned restaurant stop)
Some sections may be muddy depending on the weather.
**Disclaimer**
As always, this is a free, private leisure activity. I’m not a certified hiking guide, and participation is at your own responsibility and risk.
If you enjoy forest air, gentle hills, and a calm Saturday outdoors, you’re very welcome to join.
Looking forward to seeing you!
Jörg
Bouldering Edelweiss Center
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 14’
Transformative Trencin (from Vienna)
Crowned European Capital of Culture 2026 under the motto "Awakening Curiosity", beautiful Trencin lies right on the Vah, Slovakia's longest river.
From Vienna main station, a quick train whisks us over to the Slovak capital in less than 60 minutes. There, we have a quick break before taking another express train to our destination. Once arrived, the immediate thing catching our eyes is Trencin castle, the city's dominant feature. Before making our way up castle hill through Brezina Park, we first wander through the town's quaint city core along baroque Hotel Elizabeth, elongated Mierové Square, the medieval Parish Stairway built in 1568 and Gothic St. Michael's Carner.
Underway we'll have fun with ice breakers, discussion prompts and local trivia. After dinner, we take a casual walk along the Vah river bank back to the station. Heading westwards, our return train follows the stunning silhouette of the Lower Carpathians.
To secure your spots, please ...
Step 1: RSVP here on Meetup first (optional but recommended)
Step 2: Complete your booking at https://vienna.ixpat.com/trencin
Quick road bike tour to the Greifenstein power station
The first bike tour for 2026 to the Greifenstein power station, take the opportunity and start with a new personal record!
We will meet up north of the danube right next to the bike rentral "Fahrradverleih Copa Beach".
From there, we follow the Danube Cycle Path (Donauradweg) heading upstream along the northern bank of the Danube River. This well-maintained path offers us scenic views of the river and the surrounding nature. We pass through a charming smalller town or two and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the riverside. Continuing along the path, we eventually reach the Greifenstein power plant, a notable landmark along the Danube. Halfway through we'll take a short 5-10 minute break.
For our return trip, we cross the river at the Greifenstein power plant using the bridge or designated crossing point. Once on the southern bank, we follow the Danube Cycle Path downstream. This route provides us with a different perspective of the river and takes us through lush landscapes and picturesque areas. We continue along the path until we arrive back at Copabeach.
**Distance:** 45 km
**Elevation gain:** close to none
**Max altitude:** 182 m
**Average speed:** 23-25 km/h (if we don't have significant headwind). This bike tour is not for everyone. Please only participate if you feel fit enough for this average speed. If you're too slow, we'll wait once or twice, but sooner or later you'll be left behind if you can't keep up.
**Note:** The route is almost 100% asphalted. A road bike is recommended.
**Course:** https://www.bergfex.at/mybergfex/activities/activity/18c49e9b1834f14bbb8f022bed6eac34/
Don't forget your helmet and something to drink/snack.
Run+B-fast
Hi Running fellows,
Whether you’re a walker, new to running, a semi-pro, a marathonist or a sprint star - if you want to start your weekend in an active way and enjoy the outdoors in lovely surroundings with a fun, international and multilingual group of people, you are welcome to join us!
Every Saturday at 9:30 am, we meet, we run, in the magnificent Schönbrunn park, and then we go for breakfast.
Want to discuss politics or the best recipes for banana pancakes? Not a problem. Not feeling social? Tune out with your earbuds - we can talk over breakfast. We are casual. You can be too.
What to expect: Start by meeting Adrian, Ali, Liz, Paul and Sonia on-time at 9:30am outside the Schönbrunn U-Bahn stop (exit Grünbergstraße). (Coordinates: 48.1858130, 16.3200640) From there, we walk to the side park entrance where the “running” part begins. The important thing is that you run at your own pace. Typically, small groups of people will run at the same pace as you, so you never have to walk/run alone :)
We finish one hour later, at about 10:40am, reconvening just inside the Hietzinger Tor exit. (Coordinates: 48.1858825, 16.3032647). From there, we’re off to breakfast!
Breakfast Details: Anker bakery opposite the U4 Hietzing station and depending on the weather, grab something for a picnic in Schönbrunn park, or hang out in the bakery. If you missed us earlier, you can always go there around 10:45.
We are a fun group of runners who don’t take things too seriously. We meet, chat, RUN, stretch, chat, EAT and we hang out over a beer every now and then. It's that easy. Please join us for breakfast after the run! The more the merrier.
Typically we are 10-30 people, as not everyone who comes signs up on meetup.
Important disclaimer: Please only run as much as you feel you can, considering the temperature, weather conditions, your own fitness etc... run and walk at your own pace as the organizers do not assume any liability for any injuries or health issues. Sonia, Adrian, Ali, Paul and Liz
Meaningful Conversations: Reducing Suffering
**A Gentle Space for Inner Freedom (A special Meaningful Conversations event)**
Viktor Frankl wrote that even in the most difficult circumstances, one inner freedom remains: the freedom to choose how to react to any given situation.
This event begins in that space.
Pain and challenging situations are part of being human. Life brings loss, sadness, the feeling of injustice, the sense of not being good enough, change, uncertainty, and limitation — often without explanation and without choice.
This gathering is an invitation to pause, to step out of inner struggle for a moment, and to meet life as it is — with dignity and clarity.
Through shared reflections and gentle guidance, the event opens a space where psychological clarity and spiritual depth can be practically experienced rather than just explained.
A calm, respectful space to stop, listen, and reconnect with what remains steady and free, even when life is not.
**This event is especially for you if you’re new to Dieter Langenecker’s work —**
**Or if you’d like to reconnect with it.**
It also offers a natural entry point into **the monthly Meaningful Conversations**,
A gentle, ongoing space for staying connected to what truly matters
And to live with greater depth and contentment.
Tanja Odermatt & Dieter Langenecker
PS: A contribution of € 15,- for room rent, coffee/tea, and cookies will be collected.
**Watch this short video:** https://youtu.be/In8dqdxpCF4
Sweat, Nourish & Chill - Winter Edition
-Indoor Functional Training (All Levels) followed by Brunch!-
Come for the sweat, stay for the nourish & chill! Once a month, on the first Saturday of the month, we combine our awesome, fun workout with some brunching! In the winter, we are graciously hosted by Superbude Wien Prater.
After our fun functional training, we'll drift over to Café Brenner (also part of Superbude), find a spot to chill and enjoy the awesome location a bit longer. A nice chance to connect with the other lovely people that worked out with us and eat a little. They have all day breakfast!!!
There is no obligation to stay after the workout, but of course, you are very welcome to!
As always at My Pace, we'll bring our unique blend of playful and mindful elements to give you your fundamentally different functional training! If this is your first My Pace workout, expect HIIT, strength training with your own bodyweight and absolutely no seriousness!
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!
Infobox:
• We meet and train in the event location of the Superbude Hotel called Transponder (if you are standing in front of the main entrance of the hotel, before going in, look to your right and we'll be the next door down)
• You can always get in touch with Jason at +436802355041 (SMS or WhatsApp work best) or email us at office@mypace.at if you have any questions or need assistance (German or English)
• We highly recommend bringing a water bottle! A mat/towel to lie on is also very good to have!
• Please, please don't be late - the warm up is possibly the most important part of the workout! Plus it's kind of disrespectful to everyone else joining!
• By participating in any My Pace workout, you confirm having read and understood the General Terms and Conditions as set out at https://www.mypace.at/legal-stuff and agree to be bound by them.
Wilderness Hiking Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Hike from Hütteldorf to Rodaun
Hi everyone,
On **Sunday, 8.03.2026,** I am planning to go around the western part of Vienna, starting at Hütteldorf U4 train station. We will hike along and outside the wall of the Lainzer Tiergarten, past the Lainzer Tor to Georgenberg with Wotruba Church and the Hermann Mucke open-air planetarium. We will continue partly along the Lainzer Tiergarten wall to Kaufberg, Breitenfurt Ost, Doktorberg, and Eichkogel, finishing at Rodaun (tramway line 60).
You can decide during the hike how far you’d like to go. Walking all the way from Hütteldorf to Rodaun is optional and only recommended if you feel fit and motivated on the day.
There are **possible exit points**:
1\. Lainzer Tor \(after 5 km and 180 m elevation gain\)\, public toilet\, bus 56B bound for Hietzing U4
2\. Wotrubakirche \(after 8 km and 330 m elevation gain\)\, tramway 60 about 1 km away
3\. Breitenfurt Ost \(after 16 km and 410 m elevation gain\)\, bus 250 at 14:36\, 15:06\, and at half\-hour intervals\, bound for Wien Liesing Bahnhof
4\. Rodaun\, end of tramway line 60 \(after 23 km and 600 m elevation gain\)\, end of hike expected at 16:30
**Meeting Point**
**Bahnhof Wien Hütteldorf, 9 a.m.**, outside (south of) the U4 station Hütteldorf, at the lift at the pedestrian bridge over the Vienna River (see the photo below).
**Hike Details**
Duration: approx. 6.5 hours (pure walking time to Rodaun)
Distance: up to 23 km (if walking the full route)
Elevation: approx. 600 m ascent and 550 m descent
Difficulty: Easy to medium
Walking the full route to Rodaun requires good basic fitness
Shorter options are possible
Pace: Comfortable and social, with regular short breaks
**Group Pace & Staying Together**
Fun (but serious) group disclaimer:
If you sprint ahead and disappear, I will assume you’ve chosen a new life among wild boars, dog walkers, and people power-walking in jeans. Running ahead voids all group benefits, including navigation, moral support, access to snacks, and protection from aggressive squirrels. By running ahead, you explicitly accept these terms and conditions.
**Practical Notes**
I’ll send a I'll send a weather update on Thursday, March 5th evening to everyone who’s registered.
Dress warmly in layers.
Wear sturdy, winter-appropriate hiking shoes.
**Bring your own snacks and drinks (at least 1 liter of water)**. There will be no hut or restaurant stop along the route.
**Some sections may be muddy or slightly icy, depending on the weather.**
**Disclaimer**
As always, this is a free, private leisure activity. I’m not a certified hiking guide, and participation is at your own responsibility and risk.
Looking forward to seeing you for this winter walk across Vienna.
Christian
Social Hike: Rosebud Valley
You really don't want to miss this one: Mystical parks, biosphere forests and alpine air quality levels are waiting. Join us for this poem of a hike up and around this charming valley in Western Vienna, enjoying abundant nature and deep forest trails while taking in rich city views along the way.
Underway we'll have fun with ice breakers, discussion prompts and local trivia.
Price includes train tickets, beverage and friendly host.
To secure your spots, please ...
Step 1: RSVP here on Meetup first (optional but recommended)
Step 2: Complete your booking at https://vienna.ixpat.com/rosebud
Weekly Sunday Ice Bathing in the Danube 🧊
❄️ 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.
❗️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 🧊🔥
✨Speed Networking✨
⭐️Speed Networking Vienna
Make connections. Find opportunities. Meet new friends.
⭐️Looking to expand your circle, meet inspiring people and actually enjoy the process? This is not just about business contacts — it’s about real human connection, shared interests and new friendships that can grow into something meaningful.
🔄 How it works:
10-minute one-to-one chats, new person each round. Easy, natural and relaxed — no awkward vibes, no forced conversations.
⭐️Perfect for people from different professions who want to connect, collaborate, exchange ideas and simply meet great new people.
💎Price 10€ and order a drink
📌 Limited spots – registration required.
Come for the networking. Stay for the conversations. Leave with new contacts and new friends. 💬✨
Join us on WhatsApp and Instagram and don’t miss new events 🔥
https://www.instagram.com/makegoodfriends?igsh=YjA2czVxNjF0cGJi&utm_source=qr
https://chat.whatsapp.com/ERvtYIUDqtHLtVwwytpKLZ
Join us on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/makegoodfriends?igsh=YjA2czVxNjF0cGJi&utm_source=qr
Gespräche über Spiritualität, Seele, Sinn, Stille und Bewusstes Sein (Deutsch)
**Jenseits des Oberflächlichen – mit spiritueller Tiefe, praktischer Inspiration und in entspannter Atmosphäre.**
*"Es gibt absolut nichts Falsches daran, auf der „Ebene der Form“ zu manifestieren – sei es materieller Wohlstand, kreative Errungenschaften oder Dinge dieser Art. Tatsächlich kann das Manifestieren auf diese Weise zu den lohnendsten und erfüllendsten Erfahrungen auf unserer menschlichen Reise gehören.*
*Doch für viele von uns geht wahre Manifestation über die äußere Welt hinaus und dringt tiefer – in unser inneres Sein (und darüber hinaus)."* (N.N.)
### Einladung zu den nächsten **Spirituellen Gesprächen**
Bist du es leid, Gespräche zu führen, die an der Oberfläche bleiben?
Sehnst du dich nach Austausch, der inspiriert, berührt – und wirklich etwas in dir bewegt?
Dann lade ich dich herzlich zu den **Spirituellen Gesprächen** ein:
einer zweistündigen Zusammenkunft für Menschen, die sich nach Tiefe, Orientierung und einem sinnerfüllten Leben sehnen.
Gemeinsam erforschen wir, wie es ist, im **Jetzt** zu leben –
jenseits von Gedankenmustern, innerem Lärm und der rein verstandesmäßigen Sicht auf die Welt.
### Wer ist eingeladen?
Menschen mitten im Leben (typischerweise 45+), die
* äußerlich vieles erreicht haben, sich innerlich aber noch nicht ganz angekommen fühlen
* eine tiefere spirituelle Verbindung und echten Sinn suchen
* persönliche Begleitung und Austausch auf Augenhöhe schätzen
### Themen, in die wir gemeinsam eintauchen
* **Spiritualität erforschen** – die Verbundenheit von Selbst und Leben entdecken
* **Weisheit kultivieren** – innere Ruhe, Kraft und Klarheit wachsen lassen
* **Mit Wandel umgehen** – Lebensübergänge bewusst gestalten
* **Den eigenen Sinn erkennen** – was trägt dich wirklich?
* **Dem Leben vertrauen** – Freude, Liebe und Offenheit zulassen
Bring deine Gedanken, Fragen und das mit, was dich gerade bewegt.
Wir teilen Einsichten, Erfahrungen und Impulse – ohne Dogma, ohne Belehrung.
Diese Gespräche sind **frei von religiösen oder spirituellen Zugehörigkeiten**.
### Über mich
Ich bin **Dieter Langenecker**, spiritueller Begleiter und Moderator für tiefgehende Gespräche.
Seit vielen Jahren unterstütze ich Menschen dabei, innere Klarheit zu finden, ihrem eigenen Weg zu vertrauen und ein Leben zu gestalten, das sich stimmig und erfüllt anfühlt.
👉 *Hier kannst du dir ein Bild von meiner Arbeit machen:* **[Video](https://youtu.be/_BN4Ch42EUk)**
Ein Nachmittag für **Tiefe, Offenheit und echte Verbindung**.
Begegne Gleichgesinnten, lass dich inspirieren und genieße eine warme, ruhige Atmosphäre.
Für Gebäck und Getränke ist gesorgt.
**Beitrag:** € 15,-
(zur Deckung der Kosten für Kaffee/Tee, gesunde Süßigkeiten und Raummiete)
Bitte gib mir kurz Bescheid, falls du doch nicht teilnehmen kannst.
Und sei bitte pünktlich.
Falls das Haupttor geschlossen ist, nutze den Code **2008 + Schlüsselsymbol** oder schreibe mir unter **0681 1069 1321**.
Wenn dich das anspricht, **melde dich jetzt an** und sei Teil einer tiefgehenden Gesprächsrunde.
Ich freue mich auf dich.
Dieter Langenecker
[www.langenecker.com](http://www.langenecker.com/)
🌏Business lunch and networking
🔹 Business lunch& Networking in Vienna
Looking to meet like-minded professionals, potential clients, or future partners?
Join us for a relaxed Business Breakfast & Networking event in a warm, friendly atmosphere — no stiff pitches, no boring presentations.
What to expect:
☕️ Business breakfast
🤝 Live networking
🗣 Opportunity to introduce yourself and your business
📇 Exchange contacts
💡 New ideas, insights, and valuable connections
The format is friendly and structured:
every participant will have space to talk about themselves and their project.
⸻
📍 Where:
Zoku Vienna
🕚 When:
Sunday 1 of March , 14.00-16.00
💶 Participation fee:
€10 per person and order a drink or food
⸻
Who should join:
✔️ Entrepreneurs
✔️ Freelancers
✔️ Business owners
✔️ Startup founders
✔️ Anyone growing a project and valuing meaningful connections
⸻
⚠️ Limited spots available
(to keep networking effective, personal, and high-quality)
👉 Register in advance and come connect, share, and grow your network 🚀✨
Join us on WhatsApp and Instagram and don’t miss new events 🔥
https://www.instagram.com/makegoodfriends?igsh=YjA2czVxNjF0cGJi&utm_source=qr
https://chat.whatsapp.com/ERvtYIUDqtHLtVwwytpKLZ
✨✨Speed Friending ✨ age 20-29/30-39
⭐️Would you like to meet new friends?✨Welcome to Speed Friending in Vienna! Age 20-29/30-39.
Please read the description attentively:
Our next event is coming soon!
💎Price 10€ and order a drink for boys
It is for free for girls
✨if you’re not comfortable with the price, you are welcome to skip this event.
💡 How it works:
• You’ll have a short conversations with different people.
• After each round, you’ll switch to meet someone new.
• You’ll note who you liked, and if there’s a match, we’ll connect you after the event.
🧑🤝🧑 Age groups:
The main groups are for ages 20-29 and 30-39
You are welcome)! Register today)✨
Join us on WhatsApp and Instagram and don’t miss new events
https://www.instagram.com/makegoodfriends?igsh=YjA2czVxNjF0cGJi&utm_source=qr
https://chat.whatsapp.com/ERvtYIUDqtHLtVwwytpKLZ
Wilderness Hiking Events Near You
Connect with your local Wilderness Hiking community
Sunday at Highbanks Metro Park
We will meet next to the restrooms at the [Big Meadows Picnic Area](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/HBK_Web_1980.png). They're all the way at the back of the park, and they can be found at coordinates [40°09'06.6"N 83°02'30.2"W](https://www.google.com/maps/place/40%C2%B009'06.6%22N+83%C2%B002'30.2%22W/@40.151828,-83.0423587,214m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m10!1m5!3m4!2zNDDCsDA5JzA4LjAiTiA4M8KwMDEnNDUuMSJX!8m2!3d40.1522222!4d-83.0291944!3m3!8m2!3d40.151827!4d-83.041715?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTIwNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) (near the playground and the zip line).
We'll hike about 5 miles at [Highbanks Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/highbanks/) on the Dripping Rock and Overlook Trails. Afterward, we'll head over to [Olentangy River Brewing](https://www.olentangybrew.com/) for drinks, coffee, or food (their Sunday [food truck](https://www.olentangybrew.com/eventsandfood) is Venezuelan and always gets good reviews).
The actual address of the brewery is [303 Green Meadows Dr S, 43035](https://www.google.com/maps/place/303+Green+Meadows+Dr+S,+Lewis+Center,+OH+43035/@40.1551938,-83.0144045,17.25z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x8838f395cef06c97:0xe407de61b3e30069!8m2!3d40.1551765!4d-83.0124352!16s%2Fg%2F11c26jc7j9?entry=ttu). If you can't make the hike, we should be there by noon.
**How to find our starting point in Big Meadows:**
If you are new to Highbanks, the Big Meadows picnic area is 1.5 miles into the park just after you turn into the park off of U.S. Route 23. That is, after you enter the park, drive a mile and a half into the park. You will come to a crosswalk with a yield sign in the middle of it (this is not to be confused with the first such crosswalk you come to just in front of the Nature Center, which you arrive at maybe a quarter of a mile into the park).
Just after this second crosswalk, make a left. Then make another almost immediate left into the parking lot on your left. There you will see the jungle gym and the kiddie zip line to your left. I will be just in front of the restrooms just a bit further down from the jungle gym and picnic shelter; the restroom building will also be on your left.
Trails & Ales! Slate Run Metro Park / Loose Rail Brewing
**History**
[Slate Run Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/slate-run/), located south of Canal Winchester in Pickaway County, has roots tracing back to the early planning efforts of the Columbus and Franklin County Metropolitan Park District. In 1963, Metro Parks officials identified the land along Slate Run as having strong potential for a large metropolitan park due to its expansive acreage, diverse habitats, and natural features like the stream that gave the area its name. The largest stream in the vicinity, Slate Run, flows south to northwest through a ridge, providing a logical basis for the park's designation. Between 1964 and 1968, Metro Parks acquired approximately 1,662 acres through multiple parcels, including a key 212-acre farmstead that had been continuously operated since 1805. This acquisition phase positioned Slate Run as a future major addition to the system, following the openings of other parks like Sharon Woods in 1968 and Highbanks in 1973.
The park officially opened to the public in 1981, marking it as the sixth Metro Park in the district and, at the time, the largest with its substantial land holdings. From the outset, Metro Parks envisioned incorporating a living historical farm to educate visitors about 19th-century Ohio agriculture. The focal 212-acre parcel, purchased from the White family heirs in 1964, included historic structures that made it ideal for this purpose. The park's development preserved natural areas such as grasslands, wetlands, meadows, and forests while integrating interpretive elements. Upon opening, Slate Run quickly became a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Central to the park's identity is the Slate Run Living Historical Farm, which interprets life on a typical Ohio farm in the 1880s. The gothic revival farmhouse on the site was constructed in 1856 by owner Isaac Fridley and later restored by Metro Parks for historical accuracy. Visitors can explore interiors like the living room, parlor, and kitchen, where interpreters demonstrate period activities. The multi-bay barn, built in 1881 by Samuel Oman (the fourth owner), was meticulously restored with help from Amish carpenters. Heirloom animals such as Percheron horses, pigs, geese, and turkeys inhabit the farm, enhancing the immersive experience.
The historical farmstead reflects a long lineage of ownership and agricultural use dating back to the early 19th century. Continuous farming on the land since 1805 made the site authentic for recreating late-19th-century practices, including grain harvesting and animal husbandry. Metro Parks focused on authenticity by restoring original buildings and introducing period-appropriate methods, such as horse-powered threshing machines from the late 1880s. The farm operates with volunteers and staff in period attire to portray daily rural life. This educational component has drawn school groups and families for decades.
Today, Slate Run Metro Park spans about 1,705 acres and attracts roughly 250,000 visitors annually for its blend of natural preservation and historical interpretation. The park maintains diverse habitats supporting wildlife like nesting sandhill cranes and reintroduced northern bobwhite quail. Trails and open spaces offer opportunities for hiking and observation amid the preserved landscapes. The Living Historical Farm remains a crown jewel, continuing to teach about Ohio's agricultural heritage. Ongoing programs and restorations ensure the site's relevance for future generations.
**Map of the Park**
Here is a [map of Slate Run](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/SLR-parkmap@2x.gif).
**Summary**
For this event, we will hike the Five Oaks, Sugar Maple, Covered Bridge, Shagbark, and Lake Trails. This will be around 4.5 to 5 miles. While Slate Run is moderately strenuous in a few places, it's generally a good place to hike and doesn't seem to wear people out. Some spots on the hike are unshaded, though, so be prepared for the possibility of some sun.
I find Slate Run to be very underappreciated for the quality of its hiking.
**Where We'll Meet**
We'll meet at the [Shady Grove Picnic Area](https://www.google.com/maps/place/39%C2%B045'30.1%22N+82%C2%B050'13.2%22W/@39.758347,-82.83701,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m4!3m3!8m2!3d39.758347!4d-82.83701?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDIxMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). You can use the map pin I've provided here; it's accurate. There's a latrine at Shady Grove, but there is no running water (no water fountains). We will pass a water fountain when we get to the Buzzard's Roost Picnic Area, although I can't guarantee this fountain won't be off for the winter. I'd recommend bringing some water just in case, at least for after the hike.
I'd also recommend [hiking shoes](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D972KN3W) for this park.
**After the Hike**
Once we're finished at Slate Run, we'll head over to [Loose Rail Brewing](https://looserailbrewing.com/) for [drinks](https://looserailbrewing.com/canal-winchester-canal-winchester-loose-rail-brewing-drink-menu) and [food](https://looserailbrewing.com/canal-winchester-canal-winchester-loose-rail-brewing-food-menu). The brewery's actual address is [37 W Waterloo St, Canal Winchester, OH 43110](https://www.google.com/maps/place/37+W+Waterloo+St,+Canal+Winchester,+OH+43110/@39.8432511,-82.8071032,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88387be3ac496d83:0x23e8ee9d9391dd6b!8m2!3d39.8432511!4d-82.8071032!16s%2Fg%2F11cp8n8x1j?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDIxMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), and it's about 10-12 minutes from Slate Run. We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.
2026 season kickoff hike!
Join us for our inaugural hike of the 2026 season as we hike the first leg of the Big Walnut trail. We will leave from Morse Rd at Hanna Realty and hike 2 miles on a flat paved trail along Big Walnutl creek and looping Academy Park. See you Sunday at 3 pm!
Sharon Woods HIKE
Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area. If trail conditions are poor, we will use the Multipurpose Path.
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.

















