Bushcraft
Meet other local people interested in Bushcraft: share experiences, inspire and encourage each other! Join a Bushcraft group.
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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
Kayak, Canoe, Stand-up Paddling Board on the scenic Humber River!
**Explore the scenic Humber River in Toronto with our Kayak, Canoe, and stand-up paddle board 2-hour rentals during the week!** Use the following link to book your spot:[ ](https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/kayak-canoe-sup-rentals/)**[https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/kayak-canoe-sup-rentals/](https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/kayak-canoe-sup-rentals/)**[ ](https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/kayak-canoe-sup-rentals/)
The calm meandering Humber River is one of Toronto’s hidden gems! Home to a huge variety of wildlife, including Beaver, Blue Heron, Deer and much more, you’ll feel like you’ve left the city behind!
*Events are subject to weather and other factors out of our control. If we must cancel or delay an event we will those booked on the [torontoadventures.ca](http://torontoadventures.ca/) website know as soon as possible.*
**Weekday Pricing (per 2-hour rental), Payable online through:** [https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/kayak-canoe-sup-rentals/](https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/kayak-canoe-sup-rentals/)
Single Kayak (seats 1 person) : $44.95+taxes
Tandem Kayak (seats 2 people) : $79.95+taxes
Regular Canoe (seats 2 people) : $69.95+taxes
Large Canoe (seats 3 people) : $79.95+taxes
Stand-up Paddle Board ( 1 person): $44.95+taxes
**Included:**
* Boat(s), Paddle(s), PFD(s)/ “Life Jacket(s)”, & Coast Guard Safety Kit.
* Brief orientation covering paddling safety, Toronto Adventures’ rules, and the Humber River paddling route
* Our friendly staff to help you launch your boat(s) and/or boards.
* SUP Leash (For Paddle Board Rentals Only)
**What to bring?**
* Dress for the weather!
* Wear closed-toe athletic footwear you don’t mind getting wet & muddy (shoes not required on SUPs).
* Sunscreen, sunglasses & hats, are all recommended for sunny days.
* A water bottle.
* Government Issued Photo ID.
**Important Information**
Anyone under the age of 18 must have a Parent/Guardian/Adult accompany them all the times on the water. Online Adult Waivers are available through confirmation emails. For minors, waivers will need to be signed in person on location. There must be an Adult to Child ratio of 1:4 in the children are under 12 years of age. From ages 12-18 we require a 1:5 adult to youth ratio. We have lifejackets starting at 30 pounds and are fully adjustable.
* Paddlers must be comfortable treading water while wearing a PFD and reaching a shoreline (minimum 20 metres to shore).
* Late Fees Returning Boat(s)/Equipment – $20/15 minutes per boat.
**[Google Link Directions](https://torontoadventures.ca/directions/#humberriverlocation)**
**[Cancellation Policy](https://torontoadventures.ca/faq/#cancellation)**
We hope to see you out on the water!
Business Insights with Andy Li
It's a private session. Not a group event. Some sessions and diagnostics are done in chat text format, no live call is required needed.
Advanced sessions are done with the help of personal video call.
**Business Consulting with Andy Li**
Unlock powerful business insights with Andy Li. With 20 years of experience and multiple certifications, Andy offers professional guidance to elevate your business success and personal growth.
### Get Clarity and Solutions
**Services:**
- **Business Constellations:** Unlock your professional potential.
- **Family Constellations:** Resolve issues affecting business dynamics.
- **Psychotherapy & Hypnotherapy:** Overcome personal blocks impacting performance.
**Benefits:**
- **Enhanced Decision-Making:** Clear, actionable insights.
- **Conflict Resolution:** Address internal and external conflicts.
- **Strategic Planning:** Develop effective strategies.
- **Improved Leadership:** Boost your leadership skills.
- **Increased Productivity:** Overcome barriers to productivity.
- **Achieve Goals:** Gain guidance on money, business, and personal desires.
**Why Attend?**
- **Tailored Insights:** Customized guidance for any business or personal issue.
**Personal Sessions:**
- Available to book at your best time online or held at the Music Garden.
**Pricing:**
- Free express consultations ONLINE are available.
- Offline sessions starting from $25 CAD / 15 min.
**How to Participate:**
- **Pre-Registration Required:** Register at least one day before the event.
- **Easy Registration:** Message WhatsApp at 437-606-6502.
🔗 [Register Now](https://wa.me/%2B14376066502)
Don’t miss out on valuable insights to enhance your business success and achieve your goals. Reserve your spot today!
**Certifications:**
- Certified Hypnotherapist
- Licensed Psychologist
- Family Constellations Instructor
- Business Constellations Expert
- Master Teacher of Runic Reiki, Tantra Reiki, Kundalini Reiki
- Magister of Egyptian Temple Magic and Greek Mysteries
- President of Academy of Temple Arts
**Details & Testimonials:** [PsiTrends.com](http://www.psitrends.com)
Bucket List Australia/New Zealand+Updated Caribbean
AUSTRALIA/NEW ZEALAND! AFFORDABLE BUCKET LIST DREAM CRUISE!
SAVE AN EXTRA $250.00 off the price of your Cabin
TODAY ONLY!
CALL ME AT (905) 471 7843
SOLO CABINS ALSO AVAILABLE!
INSIDE CABIN Under $3000.00! Ocean View just $300.00 more
**Update for January Caribbean also Below!**
**January Caribbean LAST DAY TO SAVE $250**
**QUICK NOTE - Norwegian only has 6 SOLO Studio Cabins left - that I advertised yesterday. 10 were booked yesterday for a total of 35 Solo Cabins booked - almost half of Norwegian's inventory. Please call me today while they last at (905) 471 7843**
Hi Everyone!
Give yourself the gift of AUTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND next year!
Australia/New Zealand is on almost everyone's bucket list.
I have had so many requests from my group that could not make this cruise in March of 2026 - so here is the sailing for 2027.
Our group absolutely LOVES this cruise - I have booked it 6 TIMES!!!
**Go DOWN UNDER in 2027! AFFORDABLE AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND DREAM CRUISE!**
March 21 to April 1 2027
This is our 7th time booking this group cruise!
Weather? One of the best months to go. Sunny and dry and not too hot - temperature average 24C
Need a roommate? Just ask.
TRULY AMAZING PRICES
CALL ME AT (905) 471 7843 or email me at
traveltheworldhorizons@gmail.com
11 NIGHTS! March 21 to April 1 2027
Group Hotel available Pre - Auckland and Post - Sydney
INCREDIBLE ITINERARY
WHAT WILL YOU SEE?
Penguins, Kangaroos, Koalas, Fjords, Glaciers, Waterfalls, Vibrant Cities, Stunning Scenery, Wildlife, Lord of the Rings Locations, Amazing Alpine Mountains, Beaches, Hot Springs, Maori Culture and so much more!
Don't forget the incredible Sydney Zoo - cuddle a Koala!!
YOU WILL BE BLOWN AWAY WITH SCENERY ESPECIALL IN NEW ZEALAND!
PRICING - AMAZING
Don't forget take $250.00 off the cabin Price Today
Inside Cabin
$2,457.63 + Tax/Port $500.97 = $2958.60
Oceanview Cabin
$2,754.10 + Tax/Port $500.97 = $3255..07
Balcony Cabin
$5434.32 + Tax/Port $500.97 =$5934.29
AIR - Can be purchased from cities across Canada and the U.S Call Norwegian's Customized Air Service at 1-800327 7030 Extension 2
SOLO CABINS AVAILABLE
ONLY 2 INSIDE LEFT - PRICE CAN INCREASE AT ANY TIME!
Inside Solo $5037.35 TAKE $250.00 off this Price Today and Tomorrow
Ocean Solo $5499.11 . TAKE $250.00 off this Price Today and Tomorrow
Call me at (905) 471 7843
Final Payment November 21 2026
PORTS OF CALL
March 21 2027 AUCKLAND NEW ZEALAND 4:00pm
March 22 TAURANGA NEW ZEALAND
March 23 FUN DAY AT SEA
March 24 LYTTLETON NEW ZEALAND
March 25 DUNEDIN NEW ZEALAND
March 26 SCENIC CRUISING MILFORD SOUND nz
March 26 SCENIC CRUISING DUSKY SOUND NZ
March 26 SCENIC CRUISING DOUBTFUL SOUND NZ
March 27 FUN DAY AT SEA
March 28 FUN DAY AT SEA
March 29 MELBOURNE AUSTALIA
March 30 BURNIE TASMANIA
March 31 EDEN AUSTRALIA
April 1 SYDNEY AUSTRALIA
NORWEGIAN SPIRIT
I need
Credit Card Expiry and 3 Digit Code
Name as it appears on your Passport
Mailing Address
Phone Number
Date of Birth
All Information is private and not shared
INSURANCE IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED - ASK ME FOR DETAILS
Hope you can join us for this incredible vacation
MORE AT SEA PERKS INCLUDED
Inside Cabin 2 Perks
Ocean View Cabin and above 4 perks.
Package A Free at Sea Perks
Beverage or Soda Package \* 21 and younger only
Premium Beverage Package\* Gratuities extra
Ultimate Specialty Dining Package - 2 Dinner \* Gratuities extra (Balcony 3 Dinner)
$50.00 US Shore Excursion Package per cabin per port Example 9 Ports = $450.00 U.S
Internet Package - 150 Minutes per Person
Or
Package B Free at Sea Perks
$100.00 US On Board Credit per cabin
$50.00 US Shore Excursion Package per cabin per port see example above
Internet Package - 150.00 minutes per person
10 Professional Photo Package per cabiin
CANCELLATION:POLICY - Days to Voyage
119 to 91 Days - 25% Penalty
90 - 61 Days Days -50% Penalty
60- 31 Days -75% Penalty
30 Days or less 100% Penalty.
CALL ME AT (905) 471 7843 Please do not reply to this email - use leeann.jensen@sympatico.caTravel Agency Nexion 380 Wellington St Tower B 6th Floor London #67927204 (519) 660 6966
You need a Passport with minimum 6 months remaining from date of arrival. Prices/itinerary can change any time.
CROSS AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND OFF YOUR BUCKET LIST AT THIS INCREDIBLE PRICE!
Casual Board Games and Pub Social After
The Board Games event is a fun, sociable and charitable event
We are a fun, friendly and kind group of people mostly in our 20s, 30s and 40s. Beginners are welcome! We are a very inclusive and social group and we teach people how to play games they have not played before :)
We provide a variety of 40+ board games. The games usually take 5 or 10 minutes to learn and 30 to 60 minutes to play.
**Time**
* Board Games Start time: 630pm
* Board Games end time: 10pm
* Eat / Drink/ Socialise at a nearby pub afterwards
**Location**
30 Leeds St, Toronto, ON M6G 3R8 (Ukrainian Catholic Church of the Holy Protection)
The entrance to the board game room is at the back of the Church. There is a sign on the door that says BOARD GAMES GROUP.
Please use the map provided on the event page also.
Payment
**There are two ways to pay**
**$10 by Cash - coins are not accepted. Only bills.**
**$11.55 by Debit/Credit card**
**Charity Donations**
* This is a not-for-profit initiative. Revenue go towards covering costs of the event including venue, insurance marketing, refreshments and board games. Any surplus revenue is donated to charity
**Food and drink**
* Everyone will get cookies/candy for free
* Cups will be provided for tap water
* Bring your own food and drink.
* Please do not bring CHIPS AND CRACKERS as they make a mess and are greasy
* **ALCOHOL IS PROHIBITED AND WE HAVE A ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY ON THIS - there are no second chances**
Photos will be taken at the event and posted publicly for marketing purposes. Please only attend if you are ok with this or tell me when you arrive that you do not want to be in any photos
The event is officially hosted by Ace of Math Learning Program Ontario Inc.
Korean BBQ and buffet at Jongro (after Yorkville valleys hike)
This is a companion event for the [Yorkville valleys hike](https://www.meetup.com/hike-to-eat/events/314503313/). You don't have to join the hike to sign up for this, but it's more rewarding if you do.
Toronto has many all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ restaurants. [Jongro ](https://jongrobloor.ca/)is the only one that also has a full Korean buffet alongside. There's jokbal (pork trotters), kkanpunggi (fried chicken strips), gimbap, japchae, mandu, tteok, and more. For meat lovers, there's LA kalbi, marbled top blade, beef tongue, and even aged pork butt.
Monday-Thursday dinner is $44 before tax and tip.
If there are many people on the waitlist and it's at least 5 days before the event, we may arrange another table.
**Payment**
* After signing up for the event, you have 24 hours to e-transfer the fee to globaltorontoeats@gmail.com
* The $10 event fee is a deposit. It will be refunded when you show up.
* If you're on the waitlist, you don't have to pay the deposit until a space opens up. You have 24 hours to pay the deposit after you've made it off the waitlist.
* When sending the e-transfer, please add a note that mentions your meetup.com name.
* If you don't pay in time, you will be removed from the attendee list. The spot will be given to the next person on the waitlist.
**Cancellation and refund policy**
* You can cancel and get a full refund 5 calendar days before the event. For example, if the event is on Friday 7pm, you can cancel without penalty anytime before the preceding Sunday 11:59pm.
* No refunds within 5 calendar days of the event, unless someone can be found to take your place.
* Full refund if the event is cancelled or rescheduled.
Bushcraft Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Canoe Foundations Clinic
**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/canoe-clinic)**
***Join us for this essential course as we break down the foundations of wilderness canoeing!***
We are heading north to help you build up the necessary skills for your summer adventures. This isn't a rigid certification course but a practical, hands-on clinic led by our two master paddler guides, Rory & Zac. They will share their breadth of knowledge gathered over many years of paddling to help you feel confident and prepared on the water.
In this course you will learn:
* Fundamentals of canoeing safely and effectively
* Bowing & sterning
* Paddle strokes & techniques (including the J stroke!)
* Capsizing & righting a canoe
**Who is this course for?:** It is a day designed for anyone who wants to stop fighting the wind and start *gliding through the wilderness* with ease.
If you have never held a paddle before and want to start with the right habits, then this clinic is for you. If you have some experience but want to refine your technical skills for longer trips, then our guides can help you dial in your form. We provide the canoes, paddles, and safety gear so you can just focus on the rhythm of the water.
**Interested in joining this year’s Epics? Completing this and other relevant courses will support your approval process for advanced adventures.**
**Included:** Rentals for the canoes, paddles & life preservers.
**Who It’s For**: Beginner and intermediate paddlers who want to develop and hone their skills, as well as practice real-world simulations of emergency situations.
**Highlights**
**Outdoors Skills Training:** Develop essential skills to survive and thrive in the wild.
**Expert Instructors:** Our amazing expert guides will teach you everything you need to know in a safe and fun way.
**Backcountry Readiness:** These skills are the building blocks for every major wilderness expedition we run. Mastering these basics ensures you are ready to tackle vast, untouched lakes and winding rivers on your next big trip.
**Event cost: $95+HST - $50 optional transport available.**
**Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/canoe-clinic)**
**About Wilderness Union**
Wilderness Union is deliberate about building an outdoors community that connects you to the life-changing magic of the outdoors and helps you find your people.
Members range from 20-40 years old. The group is a mix of GTA locals and newcomers to Toronto from within Canada and abroad.
Attendance numbers on Meetup don't reflect our actual event attendance - we typically have 15-20 community members at each event. Large enough that there's someone new to meet but small enough that it's not overwhelming!
***Learn more at our website [www.wildernessunion.com](https://www.wildernessunion.com/)***
Wilkett Creek, Serena Grundy, Sunnybrook and Edwards Garden!
**MeetUp Point: Entrance is off Leslie Street. Turn left on Leslie to the parking lot 2 in Wilkett Creek Park.**
(Don't follow the pin)
Join us for a 12 km urban hike that is challenging. Starting past Wilcot Parking lot 2, we will be passing through sunnybrook Park and Edwards Gardens.
For lunch we can atop at the TBG Bloom Cafe or bring a lunch, lots of water. Please ensure arms and legs are covered as there are plenty of ticks out there.
Sunday Nature and Neighbourhood Walk! (Dinner and Music Listening Party after)
Hello everyone,
**\*\*Kindly Read Carefully\*\***
Please join me and my other groups for a fantastic spring afternoon involving a leisure nature and beautiful neighbourhood walk
\- Include trails\, parks\, cafes\, ice breakers\, washroom breaks and beautiful sties to see
-Our great event will continue as we hit a fabulous location for dinner, beverages and conversation (optional)
-Stick around after dinner and music listening party after
**Time and Location: Where to meet us?**
We will meet at out front of **Smoke Show** **744 Mt. Pleasant Rd)**
\*Arrive early if you like (however we will meet out front at
**3:00 p.m. (we will wait for everyone to arrive until roughly 3:30 p.m.)**
This will give us an opportunity to introduce ourselves as everyone arrives; then make our way on our small adventure through quieter and more natural parts of the city we don't usually get to see.
More details below:
Sincerely,
Steve Flemming
(Organizer/Host)
**Event Details:**
**Sunday Nature and Neighbourhood Walk! (Dinner and Music Listening Party after)**
-A great event planned as we explore Parks, Trails, Cafes and beautiful Neighbourhoods with cool sites to see
-During the walk we will stop and rest at different spots, bathroom breaks, take some lovely scenic photos, group photos and share some laughs together
-Play a couple ice breaker games near the beginning of the walk as well to help us get to know one another
\*This event is a great way to naturally make connections, get some fresh air, exercise and (re) connect with some wonderful people
**Bonus after our Leisure Nature and Neighbourhood Walk:**
\*Stick around after the walk for a fun Sunday evening gathering at an iconic venue with Reserved Seating, Great Menu, Beverages, Mingling and Music Listening Party
**Event Fee:**
10 dollars (cash only) when you arrive (HST is included)
or e transfer in advance to Steveflemming11@gmail.com
\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-
**Time and Location: Where to meet us?**
**Date:** Sunday May 14th
We will meet at out front of **Smoke Show** **744 Mt. Pleasant Rd)**
\*Arrive early if you like (however we will meet out front at
**3:00 p.m. (we will wait for everyone to arrive until roughly 3:30 p.m.)**
\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-
***Thanks for reading everyone, remember to RSVP and see you real soon!*** :)
\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-
Just a day hike to a back country lake or pond that I haven't been to yet
I haven't been to this body of water yet. just checking it out as a possible camp site.
From the hwy 400 turn off on Gibson lake road drive most of the way to the end. free parking at the boat launch.
Plan to set off 10 AM.
Any one that would like to go for a walk in the woods
Bring a lunch and bug spray
A Saturday Morning "Quicky" (For your heart rate, obviously)
On **Saturday, May 23rd**, let’s get our hearts pumping and our stomachs growling. We’re hitting the [Crothers Woods](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/crothers-woods-and-brickwotks-9914464) trails for a brisk city ravine loop before heading to the **Evergreen Brick Works**.
The pace will be snappy—think "I have a lunch date later" fast. We’ll be hunting down those legendary tapioca crepes and empanadas like they’re the last pieces of gear at an MEC sale.
* **The Mission:** An 8.5 km jaunt in about 2 hours. Level 2 if you please.
* **The Schedule:** Meet at **9:30 AM**. You’ll be back on your couch by 12:45 PM.
* **The Spot:** [50-58 True Davidson Dr.](https://www.google.ca/maps/place/43%C2%B041'36.9%22N+79%C2%B022'00.2%22W/@43.693588,-79.3672642,19z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d43.6935869!4d-79.3667166)
1. What3words [https://what3words.com/using.cashier.rainy](https://what3words.com/using.cashier.rainy)
The first time I saw your hiking boots, I knew we were all **sole-mates**. Don’t leave me hanging.
Gadi
Bushcraft Events Near You
Connect with your local Bushcraft community
Sunday Arts & Crafternoon: Launch Event! 🎉
**Let’s kick off our very first CBUS Maker Meetup!**
Whether you are looking to carve out dedicated creative time, wanting to get a lingering project across the finish line, or just looking to chat with fellow local makers—this is the space for you.
🧵 **What to Bring**
Bring any art or craft project you are currently working on, as long as it is portable and quiet. Think:
* **Yarn & Thread:** Knitting, crochet, embroidery, cross-stitch, hand-sewing, mending.
* **Paper & Sketching:** Sketchbooks, adult coloring books, watercolors, bullet journaling.
* **Digital:** Tablets, iPad drawing, laptop writing/design.
* *Please note: Because we are meeting in a shared public space, no power tools, sewing machines, or high-odor materials (like strong solvents or spray glues), please!*
**📍 Where to Find Us**
* We will be meeting at **Columbus Metropolitan Library - Karl Road Branch** in **Meeting Room 1**. Room is reserved under **CBUS Maker Meetup.**
**⏱️ Timeline**
* **1:00 PM:** Arrive, grab a seat, get settled, and do a quick round of introductions so we can see what everyone is working on.
* **1:15 PM - 3:00 PM:** Open maker time! Chat, craft, relax, and swap creative ideas.
**⚠️ A Note on RSVPs**
Space for this first meetup is strictly limited to 10 spots.
If your plans change and you can no longer attend, please update your RSVP to "Not Going" as soon as possible so someone on the waitlist can grab your spot. We ask that you try to give at least 48 hours' notice if you need to cancel.
***
**We can't wait to meet you and see what you're making! All skill levels welcome.**
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.
Art & Craft Maker Meetup
**Get your creative flow going with a Sunday Afternoon Maker Meetup!**
Whether you are looking to carve out dedicated creative time, wanting to get a lingering project across the finish line, or just looking to chat with fellow local makers—this is the space for you.
🧵 **What to Bring**
Bring any art or craft project you are currently working on, as long as it is portable and quiet. Think:
* **Yarn & Thread:** Knitting, crochet, embroidery, cross-stitch, hand-sewing, mending.
* **Paper & Sketching:** Sketchbooks, adult coloring books, watercolors, bullet journaling.
* **Digital:** Tablets, iPad drawing, laptop writing/design.
* *Please note: Because we are meeting in a shared public space, no power tools, sewing machines, or high-odor materials (like strong solvents or spray glues), please!*
**📍 Where to Find Us**
* We will be meeting at **Columbus Metropolitan Library - Martin Luther King Branch** in **Meeting Room 1**. Room is reserved under **CBUS Maker Meetup.**
**⏱️ Timeline**
* **1:00 PM:** Arrive, grab a seat, get settled, and do a quick round of introductions so we can see what everyone is working on.
* **1:15 PM - 3:00 PM:** Open maker time! Chat, craft, relax, and swap creative ideas.
**⚠️ A Note on RSVPs**
Space for this first meetup is strictly limited to 10 spots.
If your plans change and you can no longer attend, please update your RSVP to "Not Going" as soon as possible so someone on the waitlist can grab your spot. We ask that you try to give at least 48 hours' notice if you need to cancel.
***
**We can't wait to meet you and see what you're making! All skill levels welcome.**
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!
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.


















