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Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

Bushcraft Events Today

Join in-person Bushcraft events happening right now

✨Business Networking (Speed Networking)✨
✨Business Networking (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€ (cash) and order a drink 📌 Limited spots. Please register if you are really come and unregister if your circumstances changed. If you are registered and won’t come you can loose the possibility to join next time! Come for the networking. Stay for the conversations. Leave with new contacts and new friends. 💬✨ Join us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/makegoodfriends?igsh=YjA2czVxNjF0cGJi&utm_source=qr
🌏 Business Networking (Speed Networking)
🌏 Business Networking (Speed Networking)
⭐ Business Speed Networking Vienna Make connections. Find opportunities. Meet inspiring people. Looking to expand your professional circle and actually enjoy the process? This business speed networking event in Vienna is designed for people who value real conversations, not superficial small talk. 💎Participation fee is 10€ and order a drink. 📌 Limited spots. Please register if you are really come and unregister if your circumstances changed. If you are registered and won’t come you can loose the possibility to join next time! 💼 What to expect: Structured speed networking with short one-to-one conversations. Each round lasts about 10 minutes, then you meet a new person. Clear format, easy flow, and a professional office-style environment. 🤝 Who it’s for: Entrepreneurs, freelancers, startup founders, managers, and professionals from different industries who want to connect, exchange ideas, and explore collaboration opportunities. ⭐️ The atmosphere: Focused, respectful, and business-oriented. Come for the networking. Stay for the conversations. Leave with new contacts — and new opportunities 💬✨
Bouldering Edelweiss Center
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’
DIE MACHT DER DANKBARKEIT
DIE MACHT DER DANKBARKEIT
***"Dankbarkeit beginnt, eine Reihe von Ereignissen zu unserem spirituellen Wohl zu schaffen."*** -Harold Klemp EIN GEHEIMNIS FÜR SPIRITUELLES LEBEN! Spirituelle Erfahrungen berühren uns direkt im Innersten unseres Seins. Du **bist** **Seele** \- ein ewiger\, einzigartiger\, heiliger Funke Gottes\. Als Seele hast du das **Gottwissen** in dir. Lesung und spirituelle Gespräche aus einem e-Booklet von Harold Klemp: [Gratisbücher](https://www.eckankar.at/gratisbuecher/) Mehr Informationen und Veranstaltungen: [Infos](https://www.eckankar.at/) Tel.: 0043-1-7150999
Bratislava Discovery: Bunkers (from Vienna)
Bratislava Discovery: Bunkers (from Vienna)
Past-era discoveries and open networking night in Bratislava, Slovakia, conveniently starting and ending at Vienna Main Station (Wien Hauptbahnhof). After arriving in Bratislava's Petržalka suburb by direct train, we'll first head to the corn fields near the Austrian border to scout hidden WW2 bunkers and an iron curtain memorial site. Underway, we'll also look for the now-defunct tracks of the old Viedenská električka tram which until 1935 hauled theatre-goers and coffee lovers all the way to Vienna downtown. After so much history, it's time for early dinner. Fast-forward to a local restaurant in Bratislava's quaint downtown with tasty, reasonably-priced Slovak food and beer. Full and satisfied, we'll continue on to the [International Night Bratislava](https://bratislava.ixpat.com/internationalnight) for networking, games and fun. Right after this social highlight, we'll hop on our train back to Vienna, arriving shortly before midnight. Total time: Half-day Language: English Bring: Valid Passport/Visa or EU-National ID Card (driver's license doesn't count as travel ID) Wear: Seasonal outfit, rain gear depending on weather **Value and booking** Price includes train roundtrip, local transit and friendly host. Discount available for groups. Food/drinks are at your own expense. 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/bratislava
Run+B-fast
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
Meeting the Inner Child in Holotropic States - A Transpersonal Perspective
Meeting the Inner Child in Holotropic States - A Transpersonal Perspective
What if your “inner child” wasn’t just a concept—but a vivid, living presence you can actually meet? In this talk, Sonja explores how inner child work unfolds during practices like holoptropic breathwork — where early imprints, unmet needs, and developmental trauma can emerge with clarity, emotional depth, and transformative potential. Going beyond traditional therapeutic models, we’ll explore how these experiences move through various layers of the psyche where different “inner children” and dimensions of the self may appear. Through real examples from holotropic sessions, this lecture sheds light on the healing intelligence of expanded states—and how they can help unravel deep relational patterns. 🌀 A blend of theory & lived experience 🌀 Space for dialogue 🌀 Short guided journey to meet your inner child Come with curiosity, leave with a deeper, more grounded perspective. After the talk, feel free to stay and connect with like-minded individuals in a relaxed atmosphere. Doors open: 18:30 // Start: 19:00 Entry 5€ cash only (Members free; become a member: psychedelicsociety.at) Sagedergasse 18, 1120 Vienna (Entry between Billa and Bipa) (not barrier-free) Language: English About the speaker: Sonja Busch is a senior teacher and trainer in holotropic states, trauma healing, and psycho-spiritual transformation. As core staff of Grof Transpersonal Training in Europe and founder of the European Association for Holotropic Breathwork, she is dedicated to preserving the depth of this work. Her background bridges body-based therapy, transpersonal psychology, and social sciences. She has extensive experience working with trauma survivors and offers counseling and integration support in Vienna. www.sonja-busch.com //We do not provide any illegal substances, nor allow their distribution or consumption at our events. Our mission is to provide high-quality information and safety guidelines about psychedelic substances. https://www.psychedelicsociety.at/ https://www.instagram.com/psychedelicsocietyat/ Telegram: t.me/psychedelicsocietyvienna

Bushcraft Events This Week

Discover what is happening in the next few days

Young Democrats Cornhole Tournament!
Young Democrats Cornhole Tournament!
To ring in the warm weather, we're hosting our second annual Young Democrats Cornhole Tournament on May 17th! For those who don’t know, cornhole is an outdoor game where players take turns throwing bean bags at inclined boards with a hole in them to score points. The goal is to have fun, so whether you’re a seasoned cornhole pro or new to the game, everyone is welcome to join! And who knows, you may even walk away with the championship title and one of our real corn prizes 🌽 🍿. Join your fellow Americans for an a-MAIZE-ing time. When: Sunday, May 17th at 2 PM Where: Burggarten, Josefsplatz 1 1010 Vienna (find us by the Mozart-Denkmal) In the event of bad weather, we will provide updates on alternative plans.
Outdoor Improv-Picknick for Spontaneity & Creative Flow (Session in German)
Outdoor Improv-Picknick for Spontaneity & Creative Flow (Session in German)
This is an event for ages 16 and up. Children are not allowed to participate. We cannot guarantee age-appropriate scenes and exercises. We meet at Donauinsel Coordinates: https://maps.app.goo.gl/FVhWPCS2ttP4EQ4Q8 We advise you to join the WA-Group because we maybe move to a different meadow. And the exact coordinates where we are will be posted there. **Stop overthinking and start playing!** 🌿 This session is a soft, safe space to practice being present and letting go of perfectionism. Please note: The main part of this session will be held in **German**. **Raus aus dem Kopf, rein in den Moment!** 🎭 Hast du das Gefühl, oft festzustecken oder alles perfekt machen zu wollen? Improvisationstheater ist das perfekte Training gegen Procrastination und Perfektionismus. Hier lernst du, dem ersten Impuls zu vertrauen und mit dem zu arbeiten, was gerade da ist. **Outdoor Vitality:** Training by the water is pure mindfulness. Nature helps calm your nervous system and instantly stops overthinking. Fresh air, open space, and improv—the perfect combo to clear your mind and boost your well-being. **Bonus für Körper & Geist:** Das Training am Wasser ist Achtsamkeit pur. Die Natur hilft dir, das Nervensystem zu beruhigen und das Gedankenkarussell sofort zu stoppen. Frische Luft, weite Sicht und Impro – die beste Kombi, um mentalen Ballast einfach abzuwerfen. **Was dich erwartet:** In einer wertschätzenden Atmosphäre nutzen wir einfache Spiele und Bewegung, um: * 🌱 **"Ja, genau!" zu sagen:** Impulse annehmen statt sie zu zerdenken. * ✨ **Fehler zu feiern:** Perfektionismus ablegen und spielerisch "scheitern". * 🧠 **Präsenz zu stärken:** Ganz im Hier und Jetzt reagieren. **Der Ablauf:** Wir starten mit 1,5 Stunden lockerer Gruppenspiele. Danach folgen sehr kurze, lustige Impro-Szenen. **Wichtig:** Du machst nur das, worauf du Lust hast. Es ist ein Safe Space – keine Vorkenntnisse nötig! 👤 **Host:** Simon Brauner (über 70geleitete Trainings) Das Event ist kostenlos. Wir freuen uns über Spenden. The event is free. We welcome donations. **Komm vorbei, lass den Planungsmodus hinter dir und entdecke die Freude am Moment. Wir freuen uns auf dich! 💚** WA-Gruppe: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/JgmE1fAt7284tf0eIFlBtI](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JgmE1fAt7284tf0eIFlBtI) This is a German-speaking improv session focused on mindfulness and overcoming mental blocks. No acting experience needed - just bring your presence and curiosity!
Vienna Hiking Challenge
Vienna Hiking Challenge
**Stadtwanderweg 2 — Fifth hike of our Vienna Hiking Challenge** ❗️Even if Meetup shows the event as full, please still join the WA group and fill out the registration form. The form will indicate whether there are still spots available for the hike❗️ Join the WA group for the information: https://chat.whatsapp.com/GqWhKBUCR5RAhI6WUguIcR?mode=gi_t —————— 🌿 **Stadtwanderweg 2 — Vienna Hiking Challenge** 📆 Date & Time: 17 May, 11:00 📏 Length: 10 km ⏱ Walking time: approx. 3–4 hours For this hike we’re heading to Hermannskogel — the highest point of Vienna (542 m). The route goes through forests, open meadows and some of the most beautiful green areas on the edge of the city. **Important** After joining this event, please enter the WhatsApp group — https://chat.whatsapp.com/GqWhKBUCR5RAhI6WUguIcR?mode=gi_t Before the hike, I will share a registration form there and create a separate group for confirmed participants. **What is the Challenge:** we’re hiking all Vienna Stadtwanderwege and collecting stamps in the Wanderpass. • max. 20 participants • moderate pace • 5€ organisational contribution At the end of the challenge we’ll hold **a raffle with prizes** and a final meetup. Join the challenge and collect your next stamp! 🌿 ——————— ❗️Please make sure to fill out the registration form: the link will be posted in the WA group ❗️
Wenn das Leben tiefere Fragen stellt
Wenn das Leben tiefere Fragen stellt
**Begegnungen jenseits von Small Talk** Es gibt Momente im Leben, in denen sich Fragen nicht mehr übergehen lassen. Zu Sinn. Zu Beziehungen. Zu Innerer Ruhe, Weisheit, Spiritueller Ganzheit. Zu dem, was wirklich zählt. Dieses Treffen bietet einen Raum, um diesen Fragen bewusst zu begegnen — in Verbindung mit dir selbst und im Austausch mit anderen. Mit echten Gesprächen, klarer Reflexion und einfachen, umsetzbaren Impulsen für den Alltag. Ein zentraler Bestandteil ist das, was ich **Soul Polishing** nenne: eine regelmäßige Praxis, mit sich selbst in Kontakt zu bleiben — und innere Balance, Ruhe und Stärke zu entwickeln. Nicht einmal. Sondern immer wieder — wie Zähneputzen. Ein erfülltes Leben entsteht nicht zufällig. Es entsteht durch Aufmerksamkeit, durch ehrliches Hinschauen und durch kleine, bewusste Schritte im Alltag. Du kannst selbstverständlich auch alleine kommen. Die Atmosphäre macht es leicht, in Kontakt zu kommen. Du entscheidest selbst, wie viel du teilen möchtest — Zuhören ist genauso willkommen. Der Abend verbindet Momente der Stille und innerer Relexion mit Austausch und Raum für Begegnung. Open end — für ein entspanntes Miteinander. Du gehst mit mehr Klarheit. Mehr Ruhe. Und einem stärkeren Gefühl, wieder näher bei dir selbst zu sein. Lass dich inspirieren, begegne Gleichgesinnten und genieße eine ruhige, herzliche Atmosphäre. Für Kaffee, Tee, kleine Snacks und Getränke ist gesorgt. Beitrag: € 15 pro Person (zur Deckung der Kosten für Raum und Verpflegung) Ich freue mich auf dich. Dieter Langenecker [www.langenecker.com](http://www.langenecker.com/) Schau' dir dazu dieses kurze **[Video](https://youtu.be/In8dqdxpCF4)** an.
Improv with Talkin' "Emotions"
Improv with Talkin' "Emotions"
## To secure your spot RSVP is not enough. To properly sign up and secure your spot, please fill out the Google Form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeN8avKVUfU2QIiOYVSXahwQWk-2_vgJQweiyyLDwkAquXPCA/viewform?usp=publish-editor Spots are limited. If you sign up and later can’t attend, please inform us early so someone else can take your place. Improv depends on group energy — commitment matters. \*\*\* Improv theatre is one of the best ways to step out of your comfort zone — while actually having fun. In this workshop we’ll focus on: * Storytelling techniques * Scene work * Playfulness and connection * Understanding how comedy works No experience needed. Just curiosity and willingness to try. \*\*\* ## Workshop Structure **First half:** Warm-up games and storytelling exercises to build energy, trust and spontaneity. **Second half:** Scene work. We’ll apply what we explored and create improvised moments together. It’s interactive. You’ll be on your feet. You’ll participate. \*\*\* ## Break & Sharing You’re welcome to bring food and drinks to share during the break. Let’s keep it relaxed and social. Improv works best when we connect not just on stage, but off stage. \*\*\* About talkin’ talkin' is an event series focusing on personal development and social adventures, hosted by amateurs and non-professionals. Every participant has the chance to lead their own talkin' event! We believe that the best way to grow as a person is to go out of your comfort zone, and have fun along the way. You don't think that's possible? Come and join us and see for yourself! The English speaking group invites internationals in Vienna, but also Austrians who enjoy speaking English. We are a group of people who organize monthly Social Adventures, everyone is free to join. This event will be held in English, please respect each other and speak English only. German events will be organized in the future as well. \*\*\* To stay updated about all our events join our Telegram :). [https://t.me/czc_vienna](https://t.me/czc_vienna "https://t.me/czc_vienna")
Donauinsel Impro-Picknick
Donauinsel Impro-Picknick
Donauinsel Improv Training mit Picknick Lerne spielerisch Improtheater-Techniken und unterschiedliche Formate kennen! Dabei trainierst du deine Kreativität und Spontaneität und arbeitest an deinem Selbstbewusstsein. You will need B1-level German skills to participate. English translation below. Man benötigt Deutschkenntnisse auf B1-Niveau, um teilzunehmen. Hier findest du uns: https://www.google.com/maps?q=48.2233687,16.4163003 Koordinaten vom Treffpunkt --> Ihr könnt gerne Essen und Snacks für das Picknick mitbringen. Am besten etwas was man gut mit der Gruppe teilen kann. **Was dich erwartet** • Lustige Gruppenspiele • Kreative Theater-Übungen • Kurze Improv Szenen, nur 5 bis 8 Minuten • Gemeinsam Geschichten erfinden • Viel Lachen, Sonne und Spaß **Impro: Was bringt’s dir persönlich?** • Spontanität • Selbstvertrauen • Kreativität • Fehler annehmen lernen • Schauspiel trainieren • Teamwork **Safe Space** Ein sicherer Raum ohne Leistungsdruck, in dem gegenseitige Wertschätzung an erster Stelle steht. Ihr seid zu keiner Zeit verpflichtet mitzumachen und könnt jederzeit aus Szenen aussteigen oder auch für einzelne Übungen aussetzen. **Leitung** Ich leite seit drei Jahren Impro-Trainings, organisiere Wettbewerbe und Shows und gehe auch selbst regelmäßig zu Fortbildungen. Ich habe über 80 Trainings geleitet. **Beitrag** Es gibt zur Zeit keinen fixen Trainingsbeitrag, aber wir freuen uns immer über freiwillige Spenden für die Leitung und die Organisation. **Achtung:** Das Event ist nur für Teilnehmer\*innen ab 16 Jahre, da wir nicht immer für absolut jugendfreie Geschichten oder Szenen garantieren können. **WA-Gruppe:** https://chat.whatsapp.com/KjK8PzmA8ZGF2gujtOH9D2 Wir empfehlen den Beitritt zur WA-Gruppe da wir nicht immer auf der selben Wiese sind. Hier wird der genaue Live-Standort geteilt. Bitte beachtet aus Datenschutzgründen, dass beim Beitritt der WA-Gruppe alle Mitglieder eure Telefonnummer sehen können. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Donau Insel Improv Training & Picnic** Learn improv theater techniques and different formats in a playful way! You will train your creativity and spontaneity while working on your self-confidence. **Find us here:** [https://www.google.com/maps?q=48.2233687,16.4163003](https://www.google.com/maps?q=48.2233687,16.4163003) (Meeting point coordinates) **--> Please bring your own food and snacks for the picnic! We can then share and eat together.** **What to expect:** * Funny group games * Creative theater exercises * Short improv scenes (only 5 to 8 minutes) * Creating stories together * Lots of laughter, sun, and fun **Improv: What’s in it for you?** * Spontaneity * Self-confidence * Creativity * Learning to embrace mistakes * Acting practice * Teamwork * **Safe Space** A secure environment without pressure to perform, where mutual appreciation is the top priority. You are never under any obligation to participate and can step out of scenes or skip individual exercises at any time. **Instructor** I have been leading improv training for three years, organizing competitions and shows, and regularly attend further training workshops myself. I have led over 80 training sessions. **Contribution** There is currently no fixed fee for the training, but we always appreciate voluntary donations for the instruction and organization. **Please note:** This event is for participants aged 16 and over, as we cannot always guarantee that stories or scenes will be entirely "family-friendly." **WhatsApp Group:** [https://chat.whatsapp.com/KjK8PzmA8ZGF2gujtOH9D2](https://chat.whatsapp.com/KjK8PzmA8ZGF2gujtOH9D2) We recommend joining the WhatsApp group since we are not always on the same meadow. The exact live location will be shared there. *Please note for privacy reasons that by joining the WhatsApp group, all members will be able to see your phone number.*
Social Hike: Kaptivating Kahlenberg
Social Hike: Kaptivating Kahlenberg
After a quick train & bus ride from Vienna Main Station (Wien Hauptbahnhof), this easy hike starts at a quaint village known for its harbor and laid-back taverns. Slowly pacing upwards next to a small creek, our group eventually arrives at Kahlenberg's mountain top with what's probably the most captivating scenic spot of entire Vienna. Descending along gentle slopes flanked by lush vineyards, we'll end up at the fringes of Grinzing district for our return commute. 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/kahlenberg

Bushcraft Events Near You

Connect with your local Bushcraft community

Ultimate Frisbee at Whetstone
Ultimate Frisbee at Whetstone
Gold Star Business Networking
Gold Star Business Networking
Bring your business cards and network in person with other business professionals! Gold Star Referral Clubs is one of the most established professional networking organizations in the country, with multiple groups in central Ohio. Join us!
Hike Blendon Woods Metro Park
Hike Blendon Woods Metro Park
Hi ladies. We will meet in front of the Nature Center and head to the two Observation decks. We will then hike Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook and Sugarbush trails to get approximately four miles total distance. We will walk approximately a 18 minute mile pace. Please wear appropriate hiking shoes.
Ultimate Frisbee on Saturday
Ultimate Frisbee on Saturday
DraftKings Sports & Social-Meetup
DraftKings Sports & Social-Meetup
**📅 DATE:** Saturday, May 16th, 2026 **⏰ TIME:** 7PM–9PM (Check-in from 7PM–8:30PM) **📍 WHERE:** DraftKings Sports & Social – 840 N. High St., Columbus, OH **🎟️ Check in:** at the host stand when you arrive say, **"DK Meetup Social"** 🍻 Join us for a fun, social night out! Meet new people, grab a drink, and kick back in a high-energy atmosphere right in the heart of Columbus 🎉 🎯 **What to Expect:** 🎶 DJ starting at 9PM 🏓 “Water” Pong + games 📺 Huge 37ft TV wall for all the live sports action 🥂 **Drink & Food Specials (7PM–9PM):** $3 Domestic Drafts – Miller Lite & Coors Light $3 Well Liquor Cocktails $4 Select Call Liquor – Tito’s, Bacardi, Tanqueray, Dulce Vida Blanco, Jameson & Jack Daniel’s $4 Topo Chico Seltzers $5 White Tea & Green Tea Shots $3 OFF Appetizers (excluding traditional bone-in wings) **📌 Quick Details:** 🔞 21+ only 🚗 Parking available at Hubbard Garage (behind venue) Pull up, bring your crew (or come solo), and get ready for a great night out 🥂
Trails & Ales! Blendon Woods Metro Park / Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery
Trails & Ales! Blendon Woods Metro Park / Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery
**History** The history of [Blendon Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blendon-woods/) began long before its 1951 opening, rooted in a landscape of rugged ridges and deep ravines that made the land unsuitable for traditional farming. In 1945, a report proposing a metropolitan park system for Franklin County specifically highlighted these cliffs of Bedford Shale as some of the "wildest land in the vicinity". Following this recommendation, the recently formed park district purchased the first 229 acres in early 1949. Because the terrain was so uneven, developers had to cut a mile-and-a-half-long roadway through dense woods just to bring in heavy equipment. This initial preservation effort ensured that the mature second-growth hardwood forests remained largely untouched by the urban expansion spreading toward Westerville. Opening day arrived on Labor Day, September 3, 1951, marking Blendon Woods as the second park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The final push to open was a frantic race; the State Highway Department only finished the primary gravel access road four days before the gates opened. Early staff members, consisting of just four full-time employees, had to hand-dig pit toilets and learn construction skills on the fly to build the first picnic shelters. Despite the dusty conditions and limited facilities, the park was an immediate success, drawing massive crowds from across Central Ohio. By the end of the 1950s, annual visitation had already climbed to over 190,000 people. As the surrounding suburbs grew in the 1960s, the park faced severe overcrowding that threatened its natural habitats. In response, Franklin County voters passed the first Metro Parks levy in 1960, providing the funds necessary for a decade of steady expansion. During this era, the park nearly doubled in size, growing from 264 acres to over 570 acres by 1968. Planners also addressed a critical water shortage by collaborating with the U.S. Soil and Conservation Service to build a lake in 1964. This body of water originally served as a temporary reservoir before its role shifted toward conservation and wildlife support. The 1970s marked a transition toward the specialized wildlife and educational focus for which the park is known today. In 1971, the Walden Waterfowl Refuge was established around the 11-acre Thoreau Lake, creating a sanctuary that remains restricted to provide a quiet habitat for migratory birds. A formal nature center was also developed during this period, expanding on the guided Sunday walks that had been a park staple since the early 1950s. The park’s famous "Monarch Mansion" also became a prominent fixture, starting a long tradition of raising and releasing thousands of monarch butterflies each September. These initiatives cemented the park’s reputation as a premier destination for birders and nature enthusiasts. In more recent decades, Blendon Woods has continued to modernize while maintaining its wilderness character. The 10-acre Natural Play Area was added in 2017, encouraging kids to explore the ravines and woods off-trail. This was followed by the opening of a $1.5 million inclusive playground in April 2025, designed to accommodate children of all physical abilities. The nature center also underwent major renovations to include immersive, three-dimensional exhibits and a new butterfly house. Today, the park encompasses 653 acres, preserving a unique geologic and biological corridor amidst the bustling Westerville and Northeast Columbus area. **Map of the Park** Here is a map of [Blendon Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/BLN_map_Inclusive-Playground-and-Butterfly-Trail_May-2025_1980px.png). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Lake View, Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook, Brookside, and Sugarbush Trails. This sounds like a lot, but it will really be only a little over five miles. Blendon Woods has a few hills here and there, but it's not one of the more strenuous metro parks. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet just in front of the Nature Center. This is about a mile into the park from the main entrance. You have to go past the Ranger Station and the Shadblow Reservable Area to get to it, so don't stop too early at the Ranger Station and get it confused with the Nature Center. **After the Hike** Afterward, we will head over to [Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/) at Easton for [drinks](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/#dinner-menu) and [food](https://forbiddenroot.com/wp-content/uploads/Cbus-Food.pdf). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks. The brewery's actual address is [4080 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4080+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88388a86d10b6619:0x4d42b470a5cf11d3?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111); however, I recommend pointing your GPS to the [Worth Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Worth+Garage/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388b4df6082825:0x17582f0eccd9dda1!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11rzfvvv8b?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) across the street. Parking in this garage is free as long as you're not on the first floor, and it is literally right next to the brewery.