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
Photo Walk in 3rd District
Join me for a photowalk! :)
We start our journey at St. Nikolas´ Russian Orthodox Church and make our way past Sunhof to Hundertwasserhaus. At the end of the walk everyone is welcome to join for a warm drink at a nearby cafe.
The event is free of charge but will be limited to max 10 people as it is meant as an opportunity to connect. It is suitable for all regardless of age/level/gear.
Startup Circle #38 [save the date]
The Startup Circle of the TU Wien TOP Fellows invites to the next Startup Circle. Details are yet to be planned, this is a "safe the date".
VIENNA INDOOR FITNESS TRAINING (gratis Probetraining)
Hallo Sportsfreunde!
Vienna Indoor Fitness ist die "Winter-Edition" der Vienna Outdoor Fitness Trainingsgruppe! Training mit Freunden und Gleichgesinnten in Wien unter Aufsicht und Unterstützung von ausgebildeten Coaches.
Euch erwarten abwechslungsreiche Workouts, die euer Wohlbefinden steigern, eure Muskeln stärken und Kalorien verbrennen - somit auf längere Sicht: Adieu, Körperfett! :-)
Funktionelles Ganzkörpertraining mit verschiedensten Übungen mit dem eigenem Körpergewicht unterstützt von Fitnesskleingeräten wie Battle Ropes, Widerstandsbänder, Kettlebells, TRX-Trainer, Ringen und auch Elementen aus dem Fitnessboxen.
Für wen: Einsteiger & Fortgeschrittene
Durch die verschiedenen Variationen kann das Training sowohl für Anfänger, als auch für Fortgeschrittene angepasst werden und jeder kommt dabei an seine Grenzen!
!!!PROBETRAINING GRATIS!!!
Kostenbeitrag: € 16,- in bar / 10er Block für 130€
Weiters trefft ihr motivierte Gleichgesinnte zum gemeinsamen Schwitzen und Spaß haben! ;-)
Mitzubringen: Trinkflasche, gemütliche Sportbekleidung und - wenn vorhanden - eine Fitnessmatte!
UMKLEIDE- UND DUSCHMÖGLICHKEITEN VORHANDEN!
Kleidung und Wertgegenstände können sicher verstaut werden!
Wir freuen uns riesig darauf, euch wiederzusehen und auch neue Gesichter kennenzulernen und gemeinsam mit euch zu trainieren!
Sportliche Grüße, Geri
***
Hello workout buddies! :-)
The „winter edition“ Vienna Indoor Fitness Training is finally back with challenging, functional full-body workouts mixed with boxing elements.
New Spirit with qualified coaches Geri & Domi, professional equipment and new ways to make you feel better, build muscles, destroy that bodyfat and get in shape.
Who: Beginner & intermediates
!!! FREE TRIAL TRAINING SESSION !!!
How much: € 16,- cash / € 130,- for a book of 10 workouts
What: Functional full body workouts with periodic focus on certain body parts like arms, shoulders, back and legs.
The training consists of bodyweight-exercises as well as resistence training that is supported by rubber-bands, TRX, kettlebells, battle ropes, free weights and nature elemtens. This makes the training either easier or harder. Every training session is different and we hardly run out of ideas to get you motivated and healthy.
Also: meet cool people and have fun!
Please bring: Water, sports-clothes and a fitness mat.
CHANGING ROOM AND SHOWERS AVAILABLE!
Clothes and valuables can be stored safely!
We are looking forward to meeting you and to breaking a sweat together!
Sporty regards, Geri
Mike Casa Show | English Stand-Up Comedy Special @TheComedyPub
### [GET TICKETS HERE!!!](https://www.universe.com/events/mike-casa-show-english-stand-up-comedy-special-thecomedypub-tickets-9BPY86?ref=MeetUp)
Mike Casa debuts in Vienna! Hilarious stand-up about office life, AI chaos & modern dating.
🌟 Long Event Description (SEO Friendly, Engaging & Informative)
After welcoming more than 14,000 spectators to his solo shows in 2025 and reaching over 300 million views across social media, Mike Casa arrives in Vienna for the very first time!His sharp, playful, and deeply relatable observational stand-up comedy dives into the absurdities of everyday life — from office struggle to AI chaos and the chaos of modern dating.
Mike’s comedy blends real-world experience with perfectly timed punchlines, mixing intelligence and absurdity in a way that has captivated audiences around Europe and online. On Wednesday, March 5, 2025, The Comedy Pub in Vienna hosts this unmissable English stand-up hour, tailor-made for anyone who has ever worked a job they didn’t love, been confused by AI, or tried (and failed) at dating apps.
Expect a hilarious journey through:
🧑💻 the quirks and frustrations of office life
🤖 the invasion of AI into our everyday routines
❤️ the wonderfully weird world of modern dating
😂 witty observations about life, culture, and everything in between
Whether you’re an expat, a student, a professional, or just someone who loves stand-up comedy, Mike Casa’s fresh and unpredictable performance will leave you laughing and thinking, “He gets it.”
🍺 About the Venue – The Comedy Pub Vienna
📍 Nestled in the heart of Vienna’s 5th District, The Comedy Pub is Vienna’s premier home for English comedy. A cozy, pub-style venue with a lively international crowd, it offers full bar service, great sound, and an energetic atmosphere — perfect for a night of sharp observational comedy.
📅 Event Details
📆 Wednesday, March 5, 2025🚪 Doors: 20:30🎤 Showtime: 21:00📍 The Comedy Pub, Kettenbrückengasse 7, 1050 Wien🗣️ Language: English
❤️ Why You Should Come
✔️ First time ever in Vienna — Mike Casa’s European stand-up debut here!✔️ Intelligent humor about the everyday — work, tech, love, life.✔️ Perfect English comedy night for locals, expats, tourists & friends.✔️ A laugh-out-loud evening in a cozy, lively comedy club.
If you’ve ever wondered how office life, AI, and dating somehow get funnier the more you live them, this show is for you — and this is your chance to see Mike Casa live in Vienna before he sells out all over Europe.
Mike Casa debuts in Vienna with a hilarious English stand-up show about office life, AI chaos & modern dating. March 5 @ The Comedy Pub Vienna. Tickets available!
#MikeCasa #StandUpVienna #EnglishComedyVienna #ComedyPubVienna #ViennaComedy #LiveComedyAustria #ModernComedy #OfficeHumor #AICulture #DatingComedy #ViennaEvents #ViennaNightlife #ExpatsInVienna #FunnyVienna #ComedyShowVienna #StandUpSpecial
Radeln in Wien - Warum du das auch machen solltest!
**Radeln in Wien – Warum du das auch machen solltest!**
> Am 5. März lädt die Brompton Junction Vienna zu einem besonderen Abend rund ums Radfahren in der Stadt. Im Fokus: Frauen\*, die Lust haben, das Fahrrad neu oder wieder für sich zu entdecken – ganz ohne Leistungsdruck. Gemeinsam mit der passionierten Allwetterfahrerin Elli, der Leistungssportlerin Katharina und der Mechanikerin Lisa aus der Citybiker Werkstatt entsteht ein inspirierender Mix aus Motivation, Know-how und Praxis. Es geht um sichere Mobilität im Alltag, den Umstieg vom Auto aufs Fahrrad oder Lastenrad, sportlichen Einstieg ins Rennradfahren sowie einfache Wartungstipps, die jede selbst umsetzen kann.
> Der Abend versteht sich als Safe Space für Personen, die erst kürzlich mit dem Radfahren begonnen haben, oder noch hadern, ebenso wie für erfahrene Radlerinnen, die Austausch und Community suchen. Ziel ist es, zu ermutigen, Wissen zu teilen und zu zeigen: Radfahren in Wien ist machbar, sinnvoll – und macht Spaß.
> Die Abendveranstaltung richtet sich bewusst an Frauen\* und schafft einen geschützten Raum für Austausch, Inspiration und praktische Tipps rund ums Radfahren in der Stadt. Drei unterschiedliche Perspektiven treffen aufeinander: Aktivismus, Sport und Praxis.
> Die Wiener Rad-Aktivistin Elli zeigt, warum das Fahrrad (und Lastenrad) ein realistischer Ersatz für das Auto im Alltag sein kann und wie eine sichere Infrastruktur den Unterschied macht. Katharina, eine Leistungssportlerin aus dem Laufbereich gibt Einblicke in ihren Einstieg ins Rennradfahren, spricht über Motivation, Training und Ernährung – niedrigschwellig und alltagstauglich. Ergänzt wird der Abend durch praktische Hands-on-Tipps von Mechanikerin Lisa aus der Citybiker Werkstatt: einfache Wartungsarbeiten, richtige Sattelhöhe, Luftdruck und vieles mehr.
> Ziel ist es, Hemmschwellen abzubauen, Wissen zu teilen und Community zu stärken.
✨ Social meetup and Making Friends✨
Social meetup and making friends
Would you like to make new friends?
⛳️After a long day at work, what’s better than to communicate with great people, good vibes, and city views?
Let’s meet, chat, and enjoy the evening together!
✨Participation fee is 2€
Donations are welcome ✨
This is your chance to:
• Meet new people and catch up with familiar faces
• Share stories
• Exchange contacts and grow your circle
• Soak in the winter vibe
⭐️Please register if you go and unregister if you don’t go. 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
THURSDAY👋⚽FOOTBALL FRIENDLY 20:30-22:00 (Donaucity) w/ SORIN & Video Highlights
Things to know before playing:
Ladies and Gentlemen, boys and girls;
We play Thursday Night Football (outdoor only) . We play 90 minutes (kick off is at 20:30, and we meet at least 15 minutes before for a warm up phase). Post-Corona football matches are most likely between 14-16 and 28-32 players. If you would like to join please bring artificial turf shoes (like the ones for indoor turf) and shin pads (not mandatory but definitely recommendable).
All I ask is that you come with a good mood, be respectful to everyone, and pay online using the link below.
[FOOTxp Thursday Night Football](https://footballexperiences.net/kickaball/p/thursdaynightfootball/)
Other methods for payments.
**Bank Transfer**:
Sorin-Florian Brici
AT27 2011 1829 5564 7001
**\* [Revolut](https://revolut.me/brici)** \- Recommended
**\* [Wise](https://wise.com/pay/me/sorinb256)** \- Also recommended
**\* [Paypal](https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/sorinSocial)** \- Please use non\-Commercial product
We play light: no sliding, hard tackling, fighting, screaming, & hopefully no injuries. We need to respect current regulations in Vienna, Austria.
The main priorities are to have fun and being safe. The drinks are relatively free after the game in the local pub, served to those who have shown fantastic football fair-play skills. We’ll confirm the location, the pitches, and the dressing room numbers via our dedicated Football WhatsApp group. Keep an eye out for the group messages. See you all soon.
Sorin SMS/ WhatsApp +43 6764276984 (please ask to be added to our football groups). We will probably need to confirm your presence if you are coming for the first or second time.
Important management rule:
\> "No shows" are penalized with 10€ fee\. Please remove your name from the list at least SIX\!\!\! \(6\) HOURS before the event\. Book a place via FootballExperiences\.NET using this link
[Kick A Ball via FOOTxp.COM](https://footballexperiences.net/kickaball/)
One small final note:
Please avoid trying to take justice in your hands. If someone is talking bad, complaining, insulting someone, fouling on purpose or committing the usual football shenanigans, please let the organizers know. Measures will be taken, we assure you. Any misbehavior on your part, such as responding in an obscene way, fighting, or leaving the pitch is not a practical and diplomatic way of resolving the issues (it tends to create more tension and cause more problems). Let’s be respectful and mature and try to enjoy the game we all love. That’s why we’re all here. Get to know people from all over the world and have fun!
Thank you.
Sorin
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
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
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
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’
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 🧊🔥
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.
✨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
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.
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.

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