Car Camping

🌊 BLUE TRIBE – UAE CAMPING & SNORKELING WEEKEND Snoopy Island & Sharm Rock – Fujairah 📅 9 – 11 January Let’s start a new hobby for the new year — camping, snorkeling, and great company! 📍 Departure from Dubai 🕕 Arrive Friday evening 🕑 Return Sunday around 2:00 PM 💵 Cost: 150 AED per person Includes: ✔️ Snorkeling kit ✔️ Snorkeling training ✔️ Refreshments 🏕 Camping 🍽 Bring your own food for grilling ⛺ Tents available for rent: 50 AED per person 🔥 Shared campfire area 🐠 Snorkel Snoopy Island 🐟 Explore Sharm Rock ✨ Relax, enjoy nature, and make new friends 📲 Booking & info: Call / WhatsApp: 0562377332 Limited spots — first come, first served!

Get ready to drive to explore Saudi Arabia’s eastern region's most breathtaking hidden regions — where nature, history, and culture blend into a journey of pure discovery. Trip cost 1050aed ( included the meals for sat and Sunday, sight entrance, guideless toward sight) We begin our journey on the evening of Friday to get more time of the weekend. first night will be our opening camping experience — settling under the stars, arranging our food from nearby areas, in the calmness of nature. It’s a simple, relaxed start that sets the tone for the adventure ahead. We continue toward Saudi Arabia. The moment we cross the borders, the landscape shifts and the spirit of exploration take over. This trip is a mix of planned routes and real discovery… which means surprises are guaranteed along the way. Our first destination is a hidden lake deep inside the desert — a place that feels impossible, a mirror of water surrounded by endless sand. We’ll enjoy the peaceful atmosphere there, take photos, and experience the surreal contrast of water in the heart of the desert. From the lake, we push deeper into remote land to reach our overnight stop. This is where we begin exploring authentic cultural corners of the Eastern Region: traditional food, local people, and historic settings that carry stories older than most modern cities. the exploration intensifies as we drive toward a unique mountain landscape filled with cracks, narrow passages, and striking formations — ideal for scenic walks and dramatic photography. From there, the terrain shifts again, leading us into agricultural stretches, pockets of greenery, and abandoned palaces and castle-like structures that echo the past. On Sunday, we begin our return to the UAE but toward the coastal side. The land transforms once more, blending desert with shoreline, where old ruins stand facing the sea. We’ll explore these forgotten structures, , and enjoy the mix of sea breeze and desert silence. ending the journey with memories of lakes, mountains, culture, coastal ruins, and open-road adventure. Note for Drivers and Car Owners: Please communicate directly with the organizer to provide the necessary information for crossing the Saudi borders. Things to Bring: 1. Camping Gear: Make sure to pack a tent, a chair, and a sleeping bag, as it’s going to be cold at night. 2. Swimwear: Don’t forget your swimwear, a towel, and flip-flops for the desert lakes and any water stops. 3. Comfortable and Decent Clothing: It’s important to dress modestly, especially in the towns of Saudi Arabia. Choose clothing that’s comfortable and respectful, avoiding overly short or revealing attire.

**Day 1: Arrival and Arher Beach** Your flight departs from Abu Dhabi at **9:25am** and arrives in Socotra at 10:40am. Welcome to Socotra International Airport! Your adventure leader will meet you just outside the airport to show you to the car. Don’t worry, the airport is very small, so everything is easy to find. From there, you’ll meet the rest of the Arabian Wanderers team, and the adventure begins! First stop is a homemade Yemeni meal with a lovely local family then off to Arher Beach. **Day 2: Dihamri or Hoq cave, Diksam** On the second day, start with a pre-sunrise hike to a stunning viewpoint for an unforgettable sunrise. Afterward, return to camp for breakfast and choose between two activities: snorkeling at Dihamri Marine Reserve or hiking to Hoq Cave. Dihamri Marine Reserve, on Socotra's northern coast, offers excellent snorkeling. A dive master is available to help with equipment rentals ($5). Expect to see sea turtles, octopuses, leopard eels, and parrotfish. Hoq Cave features impressive stalagmites, stalactites, and flowstones, offering a true wilderness experience with no lights or boardwalks. After your adventure, we'll return to Arher for lunch, then head to Diksam Plateau to see the iconic Dragon's Blood Trees. On the way, we'll stop at Wadi Dirhur, the island's deepest canyon, with palm trees and Bottle Trees growing from the canyon walls. The day ends with dinner and an overnight stay under the Dragon's Blood Trees. **Day 3: Qalansiya and Detwah Lagoon** After breakfast in the forest, we'll leave the high central plateau behind and head to western Socotra. Our first stop will be the charming village of Qalansiya, the second-largest town on the island. From there, we'll make a short journey to Detwah Lagoon, a protected area home to pufferfish, stingrays, starfish, and even turtles. You'll have time to swim and explore the nearby white sand beach. Lunch will be served in a beautiful cave, where a local guide will introduce us to the sweet and fascinating creatures of the lagoon. As afternoon turns to evening, you'll have the chance to watch the sunset over the lagoon before returning to camp. We'll enjoy dinner and spend the night at Detwah Lagoon. **Day 4: Shoab Beach** This morning is all about sailing the waves! Your day will begin with a boat ride to Shoab Beach, which takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. Along the way, we’ll likely encounter large pods of dolphins playing in the waves. Once we arrive at Shoab Beach, you'll have plenty of time to swim and enjoy the sun before returning to camp for lunch and some relaxation. After lunch and a rest from your swim, we'll drive to Hadiboh. There, we'll visit the local fish market and shops, take a brief tour of the town, and grab a refreshing juice. Following our time in Hadiboh, we'll head to Delisha. Delisha is renowned for its stunning sunsets, making it one of the best spots on the island to watch the sun go down. We’ll have dinner and camp on the beach for a memorable evening. **Day 5: Airport** We will bid you farewell with a delicious breakfast on the beach before driving you to the airport for your flight home. **Including:** **Meals:** All meals: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners **Transport:** Private vehicle, 4x4 **Accommodation:** High-quality camping equipment is provided, including private tents (2-person tents are available for couples), mattresses, mattress covers, pillows, pillow covers, blankets, and portable toilets as needed. Accommodations include 4 nights of camping. * **Included activities:** * Arher beach visit * Hike to Hoq Cave * Snorkeling in Dihamri * Dragon Blood Trees Forest visit * Swim and free time in Detwah Lagoon * Boat ride along with dolphins to Shoab beach * Short hike to meet the caveman **Visit Visa** **Round Trip Flight from Abu Dhabi to Socotra** **Entrance fees** **Staff & experts** Adventure Leader throughout, local guides. **Price:** 8,200 AED PP **Notes:** * **Important note**: Your booking will only be confirmed once you've completed the process on the following link: https://www.arabianwanderers.com/tour/socotra-the-alien-island-5-days[.](https://www.arabianwanderers.com/tour/socotra-the-alien-island) RSVP on Meetup serves as an expression of intent to attend the event and does not guarantee your place, as spots are limited and tend to fill up rapidly. * **Group size:** Small group experience - Avg. 10. Max 16. * **Physical rating:** Suitable for everyone, includes beginner level hiking and walking. * Solo travelers are welcome. * **Instagram**: Follow us on Instagram for more adventures: [arabian.wanderers](https://instagram.com/arabian.wanderers?igshid=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==). For further info, you can WhatsApp message by clicking on this link [https://wa.me/message/V53PMRXR5SCIH1](https://wa.me/message/V53PMRXR5SCIH1) or call us on: [+971522067219](+971522067219)

Welcome to Murmansk, located in the **far reaches of Northern Russia**, a land of powdery snow, endless tundra, and the **mesmerising Aurora Borealis!** A city on the Kola Peninsula, 200km north of the Arctic Circle, Murmansk is arguably one of the best places within the polar regions to view the Northern Lights. Formed in the ionosphere, anywhere from 80 to 1,000 km above the earth's surface, this **incredible natural phenomena occurs when electrons and protons, emitted from the sun, are carried by solar wind** towards our planet. Upon entering the Earth's atmosphere and interacting with its magnetic field, the sun molecules emit nitrogen and hydrogen, to **cause the glowing, multicolored phenomenon known as the Aurora Borealis.** However, this is not a permanent fixture of the skies. The Northern Lights only occur from mid-September to the end of March, and it is believed that the period around the spring Equinox (March 21st) offers the greatest spectacle. This is due to the favourable conditions of cloudless skies, low humidity and temperature levels, and high atmospheric pressure. Besides craning our necks and looking to the heavens each night, on this winter trip to Murmansk we will also experience the essence of Russia, discovering the native people, ancient traditions and folklore unique to this region. Venturing beyond the Arctic Circle, we will journey across the far north of the Kola Peninsula, traversing polar tundra, magical white forests and mountainous wilderness, by dog sled, snowmobile and reindeer! Ready to chase the dancing lights? **Let’s go!** **DAY 0: Departure** Meet at DXB at 17:30 for our flight to Murmansk via Moscow at 19:40 **DAY 1: Arrival and Murmansk city tour** Arrival, transfer to the hotel to check in and drop the bags. We'll start with morning, we head out for a city tour of Murmansk, visiting key places of interest. There will be plenty of photo opportunities with “Lenin”, the now decommissioned nuclear-powered icebreaker, launched in 1957 as the first of its kind. It was built by the former Soviet Union to clear a year-round passage for shipping on the Northern Sea Route, which connects Russia's far east and Europe through the Arctic. There will be time to explore a bit and grab some dinner before we reconvene later in the evening and head out to begin our hunt for the Northern Lights. **DAY 2: Teriberka village and Barents Sea** After breakfast we head to the shores of the Barents Sea towards the village of Teriberka, 120km from Murmansk. After a three-hour drive down an icy road, we will be greeted by scenes from a fascinating time capsule (or a horror movie – your choice) as the abandoned houses of Teriberka come into view. Now home to just 600 residents, the village was made famous by the 2015 Oscar-nominated drama Leviathan. Upon arrival we will tour Teriberka, visiting a wooden ship cemetery dating back to the Imperial Era. We will then head to the Arctic coast to take in the vast tundra landscape, mighty waterfalls and huge frozen rocks, set against the backdrop of the icy Barents Sea. After lunch we make the drive to Aurora Village, our home for the next two nights. In the evening we’ll have another excursion to spot the Northern Lights. **DAY 3: Free day in Aurora Village** Today you are free to explore the area and try any number of optional activities popular in this land of ice and snow. Try your hand at **ice lake floating, snow shoeing or traditional ice fishing,** and maybe catch something to eat for lunch. Later on we set off on a **snowmobile safari** to see more of the surrounding tundra landscape and spot wildlife like polar foxes, hares and hunting birds. Afterwards, you can relax in a traditional Russian banya (sauna) to ward off the chill and relax your muscles. **DAY4: Saami village and husky dog sledding** Today we head to the Saami settlement, one of the largest tourist complexes on the Kola Peninsula. Here, we will meet the Saami people’s precious reindeers, who are not only essential to their way of life, but are surprisingly affectionate and enjoy being stroked and fed by visitors. Surrounded by vast countryside, we will learn more about the ancient Saami culture, go reindeer sledding and play some traditional games – lasso throwing, anyone? After an authentic lunch of fish soup, berry pie, and herbal tea, we will head to a Siberian husky farm to learn the incredible story behind the evolution of this iconic northern breed. We will then hop abroad an exhilarating sled ride through the snowy forest. Afterwards, we’ll head back to the city for some dinner, and then transfer to the airport to make our journey home. **Level of difficulty:** Easy, available for everyone (temp range -6C to -12C). **Cost:** * 9,550 AED incl. flights. **Cost valid until JAN 01st** \- past this date cost will change\. **Activities:** Husky dog sledging, snow mobile drive, immersing in Saami culture, sightseeing and soaking in the Northern Lights from your own bed. **Optional:** Ice lake floating, ice fishing, snow shoeing, Russian banya (sauna). **Accommodation & meals:** 2 nights in 4 star hotel, 2 nights in Aurora Igloos, double sharing. Meals excluded. **Specifically excluded:** Visa, meals, insurance. **Visa:** agency only (for every passport). See yah in Murmansk x Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 00971 50 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) Find all trekkups at [linktr.ee/trekkup](http://linktr.ee/trekkup)

**Note : Registration is confirmed only through [MeetNtrain](https://meetntrain.com/community/Volleyballpartners)** [WhatsApp Group ](https://chat.whatsapp.com/IPwYiB48lTz8Ud3pVdrGAc) Get ready for an exciting evening of **beach volleyball** on soft sand! 🌴🏐 Whether you're a total beginner or a seasoned pro, this fun and friendly game welcomes all skill levels. Come play, vibe, and enjoy the energy! **📍 Location:** Kite Beach - Dubai **🕘 Time:** 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM (2 hours of play) ⏳ *Spots limited to 18 players – secure your spot early!* ⏱ *Note: Timing may change – join the [WhatsApp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/IPwYiB48lTz8Ud3pVdrGAc) for updates.* **💵 Fee:** 40 AED per player **✅ What’s Included:** * Cold water 💧 * International music with high-quality sound 🎶 * Guided games & refereeing by your host, Noah 🎤 📲 *Join our WhatsApp group for full details & to confirm your spot!* **📬 Contact:** Reach out via WhatsApp or email to confirm your participation. **[Book Now](https://meetntrain.com/community/Volleyballpartners)** **Noah : 0504746210**

**[Click here to Join the WhatsApp Community & Be a Settler!!](https://linktr.ee/settleme_)** 🥪🎲**Board Games & Bites**🎲🥪 **Hey Settlers!!!!** Your Friday night plans? Sorted. Looking for a chill night out where you can meet cool people, play games, enjoy amazing food and great vibes? **THIS IS IT!!** Whether you’re new in Dubai or just tired of the same old scroll-dinner-sleep routine, come join us for a night that’s equal parts fun, relaxed, and real. 💫 **What’s Happening?** 🎲 **Board Games** BYOG or join in with the crowd - **Cards, Sequence, Jenga, Uno, Codenames**... strangers turn into friends real quick here. 🍔 **Delicious Food** H2O Café has an incredible menu - perfect for sharing bites while laughing over game-night chaos. 💨 **Great for Sheesha Lovers** If you're a sheesha person, they’ve got a wideeee range of flavours - fruity, icy, classics... whatever your vibe. 📍**Where?** 👉🏻 **[H2O Cafe](https://g.co/kgs/AdChfiM)** 🗓️ **When?** ⏰**Saturday \| 8:30pm \- 10:30pm** 💰 **Board Game Fee: AED 15** Come solo or bring a friend, either way, you’ll leave with a bigger circle. Great food. Fun games. Sheesha. New friends. What more do you even need? **RSVP now!!!!** **Let's go!!!!** 😎🔥

The Camp - Al Qudra WhatsApp: +1 585 351 1378 party . BBQ, camp, social gathering we have a sound system Everyone please bring your own food, drinks, chairs etc... carpooling can be arranged directly with other members all setup is there, BBQ, charcoal, fire music etc .. cost free

Join Dubai Offroaders for an unforgettable weekend of camping, off-roading, and Jeep adventure in the Dubai desert! This event is perfect for off-road enthusiasts of all levels, from beginners to advanced drivers. Get ready to explore the stunning desert landscape, tackle challenging terrains, and have fun with like-minded adventurers. Experience the thrill of driving your 4x4 through the sandy dunes, enjoy a BBQ under the starlit sky, and connect with fellow expats in Dubai who share your passion for off-road activities. Whether you're a seasoned off-roader or a newbie looking to learn, this weekend trip promises an exciting blend of off-road driving, camping under the stars, and making unforgettable memories in the great outdoors. Don't miss out on this ultimate Dubai Offroaders experience!

✨ Ignite the Night: Beach Glow Up Camp! ✨ Ready to trade the city lights for a starlit shore? Join SPx Outdoors for an unforgettable coastal escape where the vibes are warm, the food is gourmet, and the memories are golden. 📅 The Plan \* When: Saturday, 24th January 2026 \* Time: 2:00 PM onwards \* Where: The pristine shores of RAK Beach ☀️ Soak Up the Sun, Glow in the Dark We’re kicking things off early! Arrive at 2:00 PM to bask in the golden afternoon sun. It’s the perfect time to lounge on the sand, take a dip, and get that Vitamin D fix before the crisp, refreshing chill of the desert night sets in. As the sun dips below the horizon, we’ll light up the beach and turn the energy up! 🍴 A Gourmet Feast by the Fire Forget basic trail mix—we’re serving up a world-class spread under the stars. Our outdoor kitchen will be firing up: \* 🥩 Succulent Lamb Chops: Perfectly seasoned and grilled to juicy perfection. \* 🐙 Tender Baby Octopus: A coastal delicacy charred over the open flame. \* 🍕 Fresh Pizza: Crispy, cheesy, and served hot right on the sand. 🌊 Why You Can't Miss This: \* The Ultimate Chill: Experience the magic of a RAK sunset transitioning into a cozy, cool campfire night. \* Top-Tier Eats: High-end outdoor dining that beats any restaurant view. \* The Community: Meet fellow adventure seekers and glow-getters. Grab your tent, bring your best vibes, and let’s make waves! All our dishes are home-made from scratch, using the finest ingredients for the best experience. Cost: 🌟 AED 150 per person (Early Bird till 16th January 2026 - GRAB IT FAST!) AED 200 AED (On the Day) Get in touch with us on WhatsApp : +971-54-444-2203

**Day 1: Al Quaa aka the “Milky Way spot” - Stargazing, BBQ, games, telescope & camp** We will leave Dubai at 1 pm and head on a beautiful 2-3 hours road trip to Al Quaa, a secluded Abu Dhabi spot that offers out-of-this-world views of a sky full of stars. We will then enjoy stargazing at the darkest place in the UAE with stellar views of the galaxy, constellations, planets and shooting starts. We will then have the usual best bbq in town, drinks, card games, music, have some melting marshmallows on camp fire and camp under the clear skies full of stars. **Day 2: Sunrise, Bites, and Back to the City** In the morning, we will take a morning walk and watch the sunrise over the dunes. We will then return to camp for breakfast. Once we have finished breakfast and packing, we will leave for Dubai. *Note: Timings might shift a little with sunrise and sunset. Don't worry we'll share the exact plan with you in a whatsapp group before the trip.* *(2 days with camping)* **Price without transport**: 550aed **Price with transport**: 750aed **Including:** * A total of 2 meals, including the famous best BBQ in town for dinner (mixed grill with meat and chicken, vegan burger, hummus, moutabbal, tabbouleh salad, fattoush salad, bread, and snacks) and breakfast. * Beverages (Soft drinks, tea, coffee, water). * Accommodation in private tents (1 person per tent or 2 persons per tent for couples). * Camp equipment (Chairs, lights, private tents, mattresses, Fire pit & wood for bonfire). * A guided stargazing session with access to a Celestron 12096 NexStar Evolution 8 HD telescope for observing planets and celestial objects. * Portable Toilet & Privacy Tent Setup. * Campfire games. * Transportation from regular vehicles to the inside of the desert via dunes off-roading with 4x4 vehicle. **Excluding:** * A sleeping bag with a temperature rating that is 5 degrees less than the expected lowest temperature or a heavy comforter is required, we recommend to buy a high quality one from Adventure HQ to have a good night sleep or you can rent one from us for 50aed * Transportation from Arabian Wanderers' meeting point in Dubai to Abu Dhabi and back (Available optionally for AED 200 if you choose the option with transport) Notes: * **Important note**: Your booking will only be confirmed once you've completed the process on the following link: [https://www.arabianwanderers.com/tour/al-quaa-milky-way-spot-stargazing-in-the-darkest-spot-in-uae.](https://www.arabianwanderers.com/tour/al-quaa-milky-way-spot-stargazing-in-the-darkest-spot-in-uae) RSVP on Meetup serves as an expression of intent to attend the event and does not guarantee your place, as spots are limited and tend to fill up rapidly. * **Group size:** Small group experience - Avg. 12, Max 25. * **Physical rating:** Beginner level - Light physical activities are included. * **Meeting point & time:** * **If booking our transport**: * Dubai at 2:45pm: [Artisan Bakers - https://maps.app.goo.gl/yH6QEtZpH7UQceCq5](https://maps.app.goo.gl/yH6QEtZpH7UQceCq5) in Al Barsha. RTA parking is available i f you want to come with your car. * Abu Dhabi at 4:15pm: [ADNOC Service Station | Shawamekh-(South West) (755) - https://maps.app.goo.gl/adkwrB7c98omTcWS9](https://maps.app.goo.gl/adkwrB7c98omTcWS9). There is no parking at this petrol station, so please meet us in a taxi. * **If not**: [Arabian Wanderers – Al Quaa Stargazing & Camping - https://maps.app.goo.gl/z6zSwEwgfQRzyccD6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/z6zSwEwgfQRzyccD6) at 6:00pm. Any car can reach the meeting point in Al Quaa where you can leave your car by the side of the road free of charge. There is no need for a 4x4 vehicle as you will join one of our 4x4 vehicles to go to the camp. * **Restroom Facilities:** A portable toilet with a privacy tent will be available. * **Solo & women friendly:** Solo and female travelers are more than welcome; 70% of our participants are usually solo adventurers and women. * **Pet-friendly:** You're welcome to bring your pet on the trip, provided everyone on the tour is comfortable with it. You can confirm this via the WhatsApp group created for all booked participants. * **Note:** Visibility may be affected by weather conditions (e.g., clouds, rain). Event cancellation will only occur in the case of severe weather (heavy rain or very strong winds), not due to clouds or light rain. * **Mobile Coverage:** e& has inconsistent internet and phone coverage. du has inconsistent phone coverage and no internet coverage. * **Important Note:** Bookings cannot be rescheduled within 14 days of the trip. * **Health and travel insurance**: It is mandatory to have a health and travel insurance in the country where this experience is happening. If you don't have insurance or your current insurance doesn't provide coverage, you can obtain one [here](https://explore.safetywing.com/nomad-insurance-complete?referenceID=26286700&utm_source=26286700&utm_medium=Ambassador) ! * **Disclaimer:** Even though Al Quaa is the best place in the UAE for stargazing, don't expect it to look like the photos online. While you can see more stars than in most other locations and will definitely be amazed, the photos you see online are taken with professional cameras or high-quality phones that capture low light better than the naked eye. * **Tipping Information:** If you'd like to show your appreciation to your guide, please bring cash in AED for tipping. * **Instagram:** Follow us on Instagram for our latest adventures: [arabian.wanderers](https://www.instagram.com/arabian.wanderers/) For any questions that are not on the booking link, you can WhatsApp us by clicking on this link [https://wa.me/message/V53PMRXR5SCIH1](https://wa.me/message/V53PMRXR5SCIH1) or call us on: [+971522067219](http://+971522067219/)

PLEASE REGISTER HERE, TO JOIN THIS EVENT, https://dubaioffroaders.com/web/ Checklist: a) Fully functional 4x4 vehicle with full tank of fuel. b) Air compressor in working condition. c) Recovery rope / strap. d) Compatible radio pre-programmed to DO frequencies. e) Refreshments for you and your passengers (if you have them). f) Offroad flag attached to vehicle. Etiquette: 1) Registering and not coming along may stop others from joining and is easily avoidable - so please be courteous and withdraw if you can't make it. 2) Be punctual. 3) Avoid bringing along unregistered participants without prior permission. Thank you for taking the time to read this and prepare properly - see you on the sand!

we will take a weekly night drive in desert, a capable 4x4 is required, we have most recovery gear, radio recommended. easy to medium drives pls join our WhatsApp group for details of events: https://chat.whatsapp.com/GPPjR6igsdoJHlGXz1yoib

Volunteer with Westerville Queer Collective and the Neurospicy Meetup to build care packages for local unhoused folks, which will be distributed throughout local camps and neighborhoods via Heer2Serve (501c3). Will you donate any items? If so, comment what will you bring Please make sure clothing items are clean and if you’re donating food, ready to be eaten without a stove or microwave. We expect to assemble around 50-100 packages, so if you’ll purchase items, please consider that amount (ie bulk individually packaged candies etc.). Fun and interesting book or entertainment item donation also welcome! Package assembly will take place on January 17th from 10-12 am. Location TBA but will be in Westerville, Ohio.

Sleep in on Sundays. When you've had your fill of pajama-time, roll out and have some tasty brunch with your fellow Humanists!

This is a very informal coffee group where you can stop by for a few minutes or stay for the whole two hours. This is a group for anyone who has been affected by having a loved one with dementia. We can tell our stories, make friends, and spend time with others going through or who have gone through the same thing. We will meet at the table with the purple flowers. I will be wearing a name tag. My name is Sandra.

**(‼️‼️*Important:* GO [HERE](https://calendly.com/movewithcouragecoaching/leadership-coffee-chat) to be enrolled in the workshop. Signing up on Meetup won't fully register you!‼️‼️)** **WHAT: ☕ Leadership Coffee Chat** **WHEN: 🗓️ Thursday, January 29 at 7 PM EST** **WHERE: Sign Up: [HERE](https://calendly.com/movewithcouragecoaching/leadership-coffee-chat) only** Join us for a relaxed, supportive Leadership Coffee Chat where you can connect with others, share what you’re navigating at work, and get guidance from a certified career coach, interview coach, leadership coach, and professional résumé writer. This space is designed for real conversation — the kind you don’t always get at work. Bring your questions, your current challenges, or anything you’re trying to figure out in your career or leadership journey. You’ll have the chance to: * Meet other professionals who are growing and leveling up * Support each other through real‑life workplace situations * Get practical advice from a coach who specializes in career clarity, leadership, interviewing, and résumé strategy * Leave with clarity, encouragement, and next steps Whether you’re exploring leadership, preparing for a promotion, navigating workplace dynamics, or simply wanting to grow — you’re welcome here. ➡️➡️ Sign Up **[HERE ](https://calendly.com/movewithcouragecoaching/leadership-coffee-chat)**Not through Meetup if you'd like to attend!

**History** [Blacklick Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blacklick-woods/), established in 1949, holds the distinction of being the first Columbus Metro Park. Its creation stemmed from a post-World War II push to preserve natural areas amid rapid suburban growth. The land, originally farmland and woodlots along Blacklick Creek, was acquired by the Columbus Metropolitan Park Board through donations and purchases. Early efforts focused on basic trail development and reforestation to combat erosion. The park's name derives from the creek, which early settlers called "Black Lick" due to its dark, mineral-rich waters. By the 1950s, it served as a model for the expanding Metro Parks system. In the 1960s, Blacklick Woods expanded significantly with additional land acquisitions, reaching over 600 acres. A golf course was added in 1964, one of the first public courses in the region, designed to generate revenue for park maintenance. Native American artifacts, including arrowheads from the Adena culture, were discovered during construction, highlighting the area's prehistoric use as hunting grounds. The park introduced interpretive programs to educate visitors on local ecology and history. Flood control measures along the creek became a priority after heavy rains caused damage. These developments solidified its role as a recreational hub. The 1970s and 1980s brought environmental awareness, leading to habitat restoration projects at Blacklick Woods. Invasive species were removed, and native wildflowers were planted in the meadows. A nature center opened in 1976, featuring exhibits on wetlands and forests. The park's slate-covered bridge, a remnant of 19th-century infrastructure, was preserved as a historic feature. Birdwatching gained popularity with the addition of observation decks. Community volunteers played a key role in trail maintenance and cleanups. During the 1990s, Blacklick Woods underwent major upgrades, including paved multi-use trails for biking and hiking. The Walter A. Tucker Nature Preserve, a 53-acre old-growth forest within the park, was dedicated in 1995 to protect rare beech-maple woodlands. Educational partnerships with local schools introduced field trips on topics like stream ecology. The golf course was renovated to improve playability while minimizing environmental impact. Annual events, such as the fall festival, drew thousands to celebrate the park's natural beauty. These enhancements balanced recreation with conservation. In the 21st century, Blacklick Woods has adapted to increasing visitation with sustainable practices. Solar panels were installed at facilities in the 2010s to reduce energy costs. The park now spans 643 acres, offering diverse habitats from wetlands to uplands. Recent initiatives include pollinator gardens and prescribed burns to maintain prairie areas. It remains a flagship for the Metro Parks, inspiring similar preservations system-wide. Ongoing archaeological surveys continue to uncover traces of early inhabitants. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Blacklick Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BLK-map-May-2025-with-extended-greenway_1980px.jpg). **Summary** For this event, we will hike about 4.5 miles by doing a couple loops of the Buttonbush, Tucker, Maple Loop, and Beech trails. Blacklick Woods is a very nice park, but it is generally flat and not strenuous, so this will be one of the easier hikes that we do. **Where We'll Meet** Drive all the way to the back of the park to the parking lot that is nearest the Nature Center. There are restrooms here next to the Canopy Walk. We'll meet near these restrooms. Speaking of the [Canopy Walk](https://www.metroparks.net/blog/canopy-walk-is-your-gateway-to-the-sky/), it's not officially part of the event this time. However, if interested people want to freelance and check it out after the hike (before heading to the brewery), that's okay. **After the Hike** After we're done with the trails, we'll head to [Prost Beer & Wine Café](https://prostcafe.com/) for drinks and [food](https://prostcafe.com/reynoldsburg-prost-beer-and-wine-cafe-food-menu). The actual address of the brewery is [7354 E Main St, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068](https://www.google.com/maps/place/7354+E+Main+St,+Reynoldsburg,+OH+43068/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x8838648cfb8d2dbb:0x545274bab130e9bb?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and we should be there by 5:00 if you just want to do that and skip the hike.