Campfires

Meet: King Albert Park MRT Station (DT6) Passenger Service Centre When: Saturday 23rd May 4pm\*\* Event communication will be through the event chat. Please check the event chat on the day of the event to stay updated on any changes.\*\*\* Do something different on a Saturday. Join us for a Mini Hike through the Maju Forest. There will be \*MUD\*! Come prepared with a good hiking shoe. The Jurong Railway Tunnel is an abandoned, 1960s-era freight railway tunnel located under Clementi Road, near Maju Camp and the Bukit Timah area in Singapore. Built around 1965 to connect the Jurong industrial estate to the main railway line, the structure is a popular urban exploration spot known for its muddy conditions, "hidden", and often flooded, passageway covered by jungle. - *Mothership* We will end at Clementi Mall for dinner What to bring: \- Shades \- umbrellas \- Water \- Good walking shoes \- Long pants preferred \- Mosquito Repellent This is a Rain or Shine event. Where there are thunderstorms, we will adjourn for coffee or early dinner. We will resume the walk once the rain subsides. Event communication will be through the event chat. Please check the event chat on the day of the event so that you will be updated on any changes. Please try to be punctual. There will be 5 minutes grace for attendance taking. Please remember that we cannot wait because this would be unfair to those already present. Please keep in mind that I may not respond to messages sent after the walk starts because I will be busy helping the attendees and leading the walk. Please RSVP responsibly to help those on the waitlist get the chance to come for the walks. ***As a consideration for others, please confirm your RSVPs the day before the event to allow those on the waitlist sufficient time to schedule for the event.*** Thank you for your kind understanding. Disclaimer: Your physical well-being is your responsibility. Exercise care while you walk. Please let me know when you feel unwell and need to drop out. Walking comes with a risk of personal injury. ***By joining the walk, you accept responsibility for your safety and join the walk at your own risk. The organizer(s) will not be responsible or held liable for any accidents or injuries during or arising from the event.***

Join us for an 8km “off the beaten track” hike through a quiet pocket of greenery where the city fades into soft, natural calm. The route is easy to follow and sprinkled with a few muddy patches, so good shoes and a bit of adventure spirit will help. Do come prepared for mosquitoes, as this area is more natural than manicured. This walk is best for participants who are relatively healthy, comfortable with longer distances and have no fitness concerns 💪. If you’re ready for fresh air and a trail that feels refreshingly different from the usual paths, come set out on this quiet adventure with us. 🌿✨ This Meetup group is a community-led group by volunteers, who enjoy the Great Outdoors (GO) and would like to share the GO with u too! 🤎✌️😃 This is a free community walk, created simply for the joy of exploring together. To keep the spirit of the walk genuine and relaxed, we don’t involve donations, promotions, or sales of any kind. We warmly ask everyone to be punctual and considerate of fellow walkers, so that the journey remains smooth and enjoyable for all. 😊😊 Late cancellations or no-shows may affect your priority for future walks. The 'going' list may not necessarily follow a strict sequence. 🔄 To protect your privacy, we do not collect telephone numbers 📵. Communication will be through the Event page. Kindly check for any updates, especially on the day of the event, so that you will be updated on any changes. The route may be amended or the hike postponed in the event of inclement weather, for the safety of our walkers. 🚶🚶‍♂️ As part of Meetup's enhanced privacy/ security measures, the meeting point will now be visible to attendees only. Exercise care while you walk. Please inform us when you feel unwell and need to drop out. *Disclaimer: By joining this walk, you assume responsibility for your own safety and well-being 🚸, and will not hold the organizers/hosts liable for any loss or injury or other unforeseen events, ensuring a shared commitment to a safe and enjoyable experience for all. 😊 Thank you. 🙏

Join **The Nomad People** for an urban trekking adventure! Group chat : https://chat.whatsapp.com/EBv11zeeBAG3w3IRUSjGlE?mode=gi_t We’ll meet at **VivoCity Waterfront at 4:00PM (Sentosa Broadwalk)** and embark on a leisurely walk all the way to **Palawan Beach** **Via Imbiah Trail**. This is the perfect chance to peek into tourism, nature, history and the beach. **What to Expect:** **Adventures Route:** Enjoy the blend of tourist charm at Universal Sentosa and natural beauty as we stroll along Imbiah Trail to Palawan beach. And fun *suspension bridge walk* at Palawan Beach!!!! **Keep your distance:** Always observe wildlife from a safe distance and avoid disturbing them. **Great Company:** Meet like-minded adventurers who share your passion for exploration **Medium Pace:** This walk is designed for everyone with medium pace—whether you’re a seasoned walker or just looking for a fun, slightly thrilling way to spend an evening. **What to Bring:** * Comfortable walking shoes * A water bottle * A positive attitude and a spirit of adventure Whether you’re new to The Nomad People or a regular explorer, this event is all about enjoying the journey, discovering local gems, and making new friends! RSVP now, and let’s hit the pavement together as we explore **Palawan Beach Via Imbiah Trail!** **Optional:** Dinner @Kopitiam (Vivo City) The mono rail back to Vivo City is free of cost! Punctuality is always respected. :)

Meet/Brief/Start : **4.45pm @ Queenstown MRT Exit C** Distance: **27.60km** \*Minumum age requirement to participate: 21 years old** Routes : Queenstown MRT exit C-> Alexandra PCN -> Marina Bay -> Gardens by the Bay -> Marina Barrage -> ECP Dinner : East Coast Lagoon Food Village **Attendance Confirmation** is required 2 days before event start. please check incoming messages from event chat. **Safety/Disclaimer**: Participants should **ride in a single file** at all times, keeping a **safe braking distance** and **look out and give priority to pedestrians**. Participants recognise that cycling can be **strenuous and must ensure they are in good health and have the required fitness level** for the ride. Participants are to **ensure their bikes are in proper riding condition, with working brakes, wheels properly inflated, font and rear reflectors/lights fitted** according to LTA regulations, and **wearing of helmets** and **appropriate cycling clothing/footwear**. Weekend Social & Leisure Riders is a not for **profit, social interest group**. While the Organisers do their best to facilitate a safe ride, participants who join our rides do so **at their own risk** and **accept full responsibility for their safety** during the event. By joining our rides, participants accept that the organisers are not **responsible or liable for any injury, accident, death or other unforeseen incidents, nor loss or damage to your belongings/equipment**, and that you agree also for **yourself, your heirs, executors and administrators to waive any claims** associated with the afore-mentioned. Organisers reserve the right to **amend, postpone or cancel the event at any time, as well as not to allow a participant to take part or continue the event** for various reasons, not limited to: **late turnout, unsuitable clothing/footwear, unsafe cycling equipment, un-roadworthy bicycle condition, unsuitable fitness level/health issues or inappropriate behaviour**. Thank you for your **attention**! :)

### **Pickleball Sunset Mixer! 🏓🎉** An evening of dinks, drinks (after maybe), and your shot at pickleball glory. *** **📍 Location:** 317 Outram Rd, Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium, Singapore 169075 🕖 **Time:** **5PM - 7PM** 💵 **Cost:** $22 per person ($5 paddle rental if you don’t have your own trusty weapon). **Early bird rate ($16 excl paddle if you confirm five days with payment before the event)** To lock in your spot and avoid the dreaded FOMO, hit up the payment link below: 📲 **Early Price: [https://hitpay.link/ra7nr8](https://hitpay.link/ra7nr8)** 📲 **Normal Price: [https://hitpay.link/wnp1hu]( https://hitpay.link/wnp1hu)** ✅ **Spots are only confirmed when payment is in.** If you usually pay cash, no worries, just continue with that. ⚠️ **Cancellation Policy:** Please give at least 24 hours’ notice for cancellations to receive a refund. No refunds for no‑shows or cancellations within 24 hours, unless the whole event is rained out. ### What’s the Plan? We’re going Round Robin style, which is just a nice way of saying you’ll keep playing and meeting new people until your arms fall off. #### 🎮 What’s the Game Plan? Here’s how the courts are split: 🎾 **1 Beginner Court** (*For newcomers or those preferring a relaxed pace*) * Learning court lines, scoring, and basic rules. * Can sustain short rallies and demonstrate basic strokes but still working on consistency. 🏅 **1 Intermediate Court** * Solid consistency, mid-pace rallies * Shot placement is improving, but still work-in-progress * Great for those ready to level up 🏆 **Official Tournament Balls:** All games will be played using **Franklin X-40 tournament balls** for consistency and a high-quality playing experience. **Paddle Queue System:** To keep things fair, players will place their paddles in line in box to indicate their turn in the respective court. **Rules of the Game**: * **Switch It Up**: After every match, you’ll get a new partner and new opponents. * **Scoring**: First to 15 points, rally style (no need to keep track of who’s serving—so much simpler lah). * **Timing**: Each match is capped at 15 minutes, so don’t peng san trying to win. * **Be Nice**: Keep it friendly—this isn’t the SEA Games, okay? *** ### **Why You’ll Love It:** * Play with a variety of kakis and test your skills. * End the day with new friends and maybe a snack after. *** **What to Bring:** * Your paddle (or rent one—we’re not judging). * Water bottle—don’t faint halfway * Your best “aiyah nvm” attitude when the ball goes sideways. 🔔 **Friendly Reminder:** Pickleball is a social and physical activity, please be mindful of your own safety and physical limits. Participation is at your own risk. Stay hydrated, warm up properly, and don’t paiseh to rest if you need to. 💪 🎟️ RSVP Now – Spaces Are Limited!

**Check out [funeventssg](https://www.instagram.com/funeventssg/) Instagram for the latest updates!** Join us as we cycle around Bedok and Tampines to find great food and hidden gems! Of the five stops that we would be visiting, one would be disappearing in June, and one supports people with special needs, so let's support them while we can! **All are welcome, regardless of race, language, religion, nationality, age\* or marital status, as long as you are willing to participate in the activities!** Date: **23 May 2026 (Saturday)** Time: **7.30 p.m. — 10 p.m.** Meeting Point: **Bedok Reservoir MRT** Level of Difficulty: **Suitable for beginners** Only cycling on pavements and PCNs \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- **IMPORTANT**: 1\. Please ensure you have no close contact with Covid\-19/Mpox positive person\(s\) within the last 5 days\. 2\. Participants are strictly not allowed to take photographs or video recording of others at the event without permission\. 3\. Photographs will be taken by the organiser at the event for marketing & publicity\. Should you be uncomfortable with that\, kindly inform the organiser to omit you in the photographs\. 4\. No form of solicitation\, MLM\, investment\, scam or harassment will be tolerated\. Kindly inform the organiser on the spot should you encounter anything that makes you uncomfortable\. 5\. Please take care of your personal belongings\. Exchange of any contact information is solely at your own discretion\. The organiser is not accountable for any incidents or loss of personal belongings\. 6\. Please ride safely with a helmet and ensure that your bicycle is in good condition\. The organiser is not accountable for your safety\. The organiser reserves the right to deny entry to anyone who fails to comply with the rules. By signing up for this event, I agree to the terms & conditions stated above to ensure a safe and conducive environment for all! :)

Hello everyone! Place to Meet: Admiralty MRT Passenger Service Control Centre Time: 5pm 1\. Dinner at Admiralty MRT 2\. Walk along Woodlands Ave 7/Admiralty Dr/Sembawang Dr/Admiralty Lane/Canberra Rd/Wellington Circle/Montreal Dr/Sembawang Rd/Yishun Ave8/Yishun Ave 6/Yishun Street 42/Yishun Ave 6/Yishun Ave 11/Yishun Central before ending at Yishun MRT\. The route may be modified during the walk to better suit the group’s pace and fitness levels. The organizers will make adjustments as needed to ensure the walk remains enjoyable and manageable for all participants. Do drop me a message via whatsapp or via meetup if you will be late. You may consider the following: 1\. Comfortable Clothing • Moisture-wicking fabrics: Avoid cotton, as it traps moisture and causes chafing. Instead, choose clothing made from materials like polyester, nylon, or merino wool, which keep you dry.
 • Comfortable socks: Opt for moisture-wicking socks with cushioning to reduce the risk of blisters. 2\. Proper Footwear
 • Well-fitting shoes: Ensure your shoes are properly broken in and provide enough support, especially if you're walking long distances. Sturdy hiking or walking shoes with good arch support are ideal.
 • Blister prevention: Consider blister-resistant socks or pack blister pads to address any discomfort before it becomes a problem. 3\. Hydration
 • Water bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the walk to maintain energy levels and prevent dehydration. 4\. Snacks
 • Energy bars or trail mix: Portable, nutrient-packed snacks high in carbohydrates and protein—perfect for refueling during breaks.
 • Nuts or dried fruit: Easy to carry and great for providing long-lasting energy. 5\. Umbrella
• Umbrella: Bring one in case of rain to stay dry and comfortable\. 6\. Optional Gear
 • Tissues or wet wipes: Handy for personal hygiene or cleaning your hands after eating or drinking. 7\. Small Backpack or Waist Pack
 • Use a small, comfortable bag to carry your essentials. Ensure it fits snugly and doesn’t rub or chafe over time. Disclaimer:
By participating in this walk, you acknowledge and accept that you are responsible for your own physical well-being. Please exercise caution while walking, and listen to your body. If you feel unwell at any point, please inform the organizer and discontinue participation. Walking involves inherent risks, including the potential for personal injury. By joining the walk, you accept these risks and agree that the event organizer(s) are not responsible or liable for any accidents, injuries, or incidents that may occur during or as a result of your participation in the walk.

🥾 **Backpack Endurance Hike – Consistency Steps Training!!!** Route: Hillview MRT EXIT A ➝ Dairy Farm Nature Park ➝ Bukit Timah Summit ➝ 2-3 Staircase Loops ➝ Beauty World Shopping Centre for lunch. **Date: 24th May 2026 (Sun)** **Meeting Time: 8 am** **Meeting point: Hillview MRT Exit A** **Your Leader in Fitness: Gary** Join us for a practical endurance training session designed to build back strength, overall stamina, and backpack carrying efficiency, perfect for those preparing for long-distance hikes and treks. We will tackle a mix of trail and stair climbs to simulate the kind of effort and strain experienced during multi-day hikes. This session focuses on consistency, not speed, ideal for beginners and experienced hikers alike who want to train smart. 🧳 What to Bring: \*Backpack (with at least 5-7kg weight to simulate real conditions) - Minimum 1.5L of water \*Light snacks or energy bars - Towel/small cloth \*Rain gear or poncho (weather dependent) - Proper hiking shoes \*Sunscreen and cap - EZ-Link card / small cash for lunch Note: Train smart. This is not a race. The goal is to develop strength and endurance through consistent effort and mindful pacing. Let’s gear up and get trail-ready! 💪 Bad weather contingency plan: *Waterproof your belongings and bring rain gear (rain cover, jacket, poncho, or umbrella). Please read this #1 - This is a number-controlled event. Please come only if you are on the attending list. #2 - We will move out at 8.05am sharp. We are not able to wait for late comers. #3 - As this is a limited number event, please check your calendar and make sure you can come before you RSVP. Do not change your attendance at the last minute and deny someone else who genuinely wishes to come. ### Important Liability Notice By joining this training, you acknowledge that you are participating voluntarily and understand the physical risks inherent in this activity. AU is not responsible for any injuries, accidents, or health complications that may occur during the training. Please ensure you are medically fit and adequately prepared for the demands of the session.

Are you craving for more real life interactions with people? Do you wish to know more people and make many new friends? **With more than 8800 followers from all our social media combined, you will have the chance to connect with a lively, diverse group and make plenty of new friends at our social event which has been running for 4 years.** Do you enjoy fun and interesting interactive icebreaker games which can allow you to win prizes? **As usual, we will be giving prizes at each table during the event. On top of that, participants who complete the event mission will have a chance to win prizes such as Kodak Chimera, Milo Blue Gem Biscuit Plushie and Lululemon gift card through a lucky draw. In addition, for every female friend you bring along to the event, you will get 5 BONUS ENTRIES into the lucky draw. The more female friends you bring, the higher your chances to win!** If you answer yes to any of the above, then congrats! We have a special event that is coming up for you. Curious to know more about the event? Here you go! **Our events for the past 4 years usually have more than 100 participants per event so you can expect around 100 to 220 participants for this event too. Just take a look at these video below for our event and you can see that there is definitely more than 100 participants. Sometime, our event even have more than 200 participants attending. You definitely do not want to miss out this rare chance to make so many new friends! Slots are limited and we will close rsvp and registration once we reached full capacity. So do sign up as soon as possible!** [https://www.instagram.com/reel/C7OokwdhWRJ](https://www.instagram.com/reel/C7OokwdhWRJ) [https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4nEhiBRfQm](https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4nEhiBRfQm) Every participants will have a mission to complete to win prize. First, participants will be split into different tables with 2 ladies and 4 gentlemen per table. Time will be allocated for participants to interact with each other seated at the same table through interactive icebreaker missions and games. Participants can decide whether they want to play the icebreaker games which we have provided or just chit chat or do all. It is flexible and up to participants to decide. Once the allocated time (around 15 to 20 min) is up which you will know when the organiser rings a bell across every table, it will mean that it is time for rotation. How you will be rotated will be mentioned on the piece of paper which you will receive on the actual day. For each round of rotation, usually 1 lady and 1 gentleman in the table will remain in their seats while the rest in the same table will move to another table based on what is mentioned on the piece of paper which they receive. This will then repeat for every rotation. However, for the last 2 rounds of rotation which will be announced by organisers, it will be totally free and easy. This means that everyone in the event can move to any table of their choice as long as the table is not fully occupied. Our team will also guide you on the rotation to meet different people during the actual event. Our team has also been doing promotions through various social media platforms at Telegram, Instagram, TikTok, Meetup, Eventbrite and word of mouth. **With more than 8800 followers from all our social media combined, this means that our event is reaching out to many people in Singapore. So you will get the chance to know many different people and make new friends.** For photo and video of past events, do visit our Instagram or TikTok @SGLightTheSparks. EVENT DETAILS Venue: Timbre+ One North Date: 24 May 2026 Sunday 3pm Timeline of activities: 3pm Registration 330pm Briefing on the event 345pm to 6pm Ice breaking session 6pm End of event Excited to know how you can register for this event? Just follow the steps below! Step 1: Register through this Google form. Take note that only participants who registered through Google form is considered as registered. [https://forms.gle/p9yB4B1ZA1zsfRsh7](https://forms.gle/p9yB4B1ZA1zsfRsh7) After you have registered in the Google form, we will email you a Google drive link to a 3-page event guide in the evening 1 day before the event date. Do check your spam folder in case our email landed there. Please read the guide especially the part on how rotation works as it explains the flow of event and how the event works. Step 2: Turn up at Timbre+ One North on 24 May 2026 Sunday 3pm. Wondering what to wear? There is no specific dress code for the event. So feel free to come in an attire that you feel comfortable and suitable for the event. We also strongly encourage you to bring your friends, relatives or colleagues along with you to join this wonderful event which have more than 100 participants! What to expect on the day itself? Turn up on the day of event and lookout for the signage that says “SGLightTheSparks event” Please note that there will be an event fee of $16 to be paid at the event venue on the event date for the gentlemen. **For ladies, it will be free for this event for a limited period of time only.** After registration, please purchase a drink before proceeding to your seats. Kindly take note that smoking, vaping and outside food are not allowed at the event venue. For any update, you can refer to our Telegram @SGLightTheSparks. Other social media: Instagram, TikTok @SGLightTheSparks. Please also follow and share our social media with your friends, relatives or colleagues so that our event can reach more people. Thank you

**Get Ready for the Mountains** For all adventure seekers training for your next trek, or simply be always ready for one! Join me and our trip participants for a training hike: Meet/End: Bukit Timah Nature Reserve entrance (at the rock) Distance: \~7km Duration: \~ 2hours **Ruck It Up** Rucking is simply walking/hiking with a weighted pack on your back. Rucking builds muscle and strength while improving cardio & endurance and well… burn up more calories! A day pack of +/-5kg will be a good start, or more for that multi-day trek. Loading up is optional; especially if you may have any health or medical restrictions. **NOTE:** * Come in comfortable hiking attire and trail shoes * Waterproof your items and be rain-equipped (rain cover, rain jacket, poncho, umbrella, etc.) * Bring water to stay hydrated (at least 1L) * May bring hiking poles (optional) * In case of Cat 1 (bad weather); any change of plans will be announced 3 hours before hike * Route may change according to weather conditions *The 'Waitlist' may not go in order, as we reserve the right to prioritise the spots for our trip participants who are training for our upcoming treks. Thank you for your understanding!* \#\#\# Important Liability Notice By joining this training, you acknowledge that you are participating voluntarily and understand the physical risks inherent in this activity. **AU** is not responsible for any injuries, accidents, or health complications that may occur during the training. Please ensure you are medically fit and adequately prepared for the demands of the session. **If you are prepared for a challenging, rewarding effort, we look forward to seeing you.** Join us on social media to keep updated with our latest adventures!
[https://bit.ly/m/Adventures-Unlimited](https://bit.ly/m/Adventures-Unlimited)

Sundate Yoga – Reconnect, Recharge, Refresh Guided by a Certified Yoga Instructor After a busy week, it’s time to slow down, stretch out, and reconnect with yourself. Join us for a relaxing outdoor yoga session designed to calm the mind, awaken the body, and restore your inner balance—surrounded by nature in a peaceful open-air setting. This 60-minute session focuses on mindful movement, gentle stretching, and deep breathing to help release tension, boost energy, and cultivate self-love. It's the perfect way to reset and start your weekend with clarity and calm. Session Details: 🧘 Time: Sunday, 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM 🧘‍♀️ Location: Aperia Mall, Open Plaza 🧘🏻‍♂️ What to Bring: Yoga mat, yoga block, yoga strap, towel, and water bottle All levels are welcome—especially beginners and intermediate practitioners. Take a deep breath. Let go. Show up for yourself. Namaste.

Join us for a laid-back drawing session with Joon, an artist originally from Korea who lived in New York before making Singapore home. We’ll draw together, but that’s just the starting point. Expect conversations about travel, museums, what it’s like to build a life across different cities, and the friendships that form across cultures. Bring your stories, some paper, a pencil/pen, or just yourself. Can’t draw? That’s fine. Neither can most of us. Beginners very welcome — we’ll keep it simple. Find Joon’s work on Instagram at [@joonartistic](https://www.instagram.com/joonartistic/). 📍 Yugoslavia Cage, KINEX Mall — near Paya Lebar MRT 🆓 Free as always. Just buy a drink or snack from the cafe to support the space.

More details to come Combined event with central Ohio friends This may be the very last cookout bon fire party central Ohio friends hold so don’t miss it!

**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.

Boardgaming and boardgaming and MORE boardgaming .... we have over 2000 games onsite to play Join us !!!

**TBA**