City Walks

USA 250--George Washington & American Revolution, Alexandria, VA, July 4 2026! To mark the 250th anniversary of the United States, take a walk through historic Alexandria’s core, to examine the epochal life of "The Father of His Country." Old Town Alexandria has an astonishing dense array of famous persons and noted events related to George Washington's life and times. Especially those involving the American Revolution, in what was George Washington's home away from home, just miles from Mt. Vernon. Accompanied by a historian/author, immerse yourself in this special tour on a special day, taking place in one of America’s most fascinating towns. MEET outside the The Lyceum: Alexandria's History Museum 201 South Washington Street · Alexandria, VA About 2 hours in length. Fireworks on the waterfront afterwards. Fee: Prices start at $24. Pre-register and Pre-pay-- Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/george-washington-american-revolution-alexandria-va-july-4-2026-tickets-1964530877739?aff=oddtdtcreator Or: PayPal, sending $25 to savvyveteran@gmail.com [https://www.paypal.com/us/home](https://www.paypal.com/us/home) Or pay $24 at the start of the tour. Our packed itinerary will select from: • George Washington, Old Town surveyor • Lafayette's triumphant reunion tour to America, and his stay in Alexandria • The noted architects behind the city’s stunning architecture • Martha Washington's school • The Alexandria houses and taverns where GW stayed • John Adams, George Mason, Thomas Jefferson, Alexander Hamilton, and other Founders in town • Lafayette, first abolitionist • The site of the first six Presidential inaugural balls • The nation’s narrowest houses • Where GW passed by on the way to the battle of Yorktown • Where the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence were hatched • What did the Founding Fathers do for fun? Violent horse races & crazed drinking bouts from back in the day. • A World War Two munitions factory, and spy nest • How GW started a world war • The horrific attack on a Revolutionary War hero • "Give me liberty or give me death!" • The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier--of the American Revolution • The sea battle of Alexandria, 1776 • The real “Father” of his country • GW's fistfight And more! Your guide is a former “Tonight Show” writer, an ex-Presidential speechwriter, & author of a crime thriller set in Alexandria that draws on its rich history: https://www.amazon.com/OLD-TOWN-HORROR-Americas-Historic-ebook/dp/B0BX27RWYG His book on D.C.’s history, The White House’s Unruly Neighborhood: Crime, Scandal & Intrigue in the History of Lafayette Square: [https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-white-houses-unruly-neighborhood-edward-p-moser/1131103788](https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-white-houses-unruly-neighborhood-edward-p-moser/1131103788) And his latest, a spy thriller set in Georgetown: https://www.amazon.com/Femme-Fatalité-Lizzy-Thorne-Novel-ebook/dp/B0F4945MR5/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0 Plenty of excellent restaurants in the area for afterwards before the July 4 fireworks on the riverfront at sundown. Your host's tours are rated more highly than the Eiffel Tower or the Great Wall of China!: [https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g28970-d12791843-Reviews-Lafayette_Square_Tour_of_Scandal_Assassination_Intrigue-Washington_DC_District_of.html](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g28970-d12791843-Reviews-Lafayette_Square_Tour_of_Scandal_Assassination_Intrigue-Washington_DC_District_of.html) MEET outside the The Lyceum: Alexandria's History Museum 201 South Washington Street · Alexandria, VA Every 250 years, let's celebrate America's Independence!

USA 250--George Washington & American Revolution, Alexandria, VA, July 4 2026! To mark the 250th anniversary of the United States, take a walk through historic Alexandria’s core, to examine the epochal life of "The Father of His Country." Old Town Alexandria has an astonishing dense array of famous persons and noted events related to George Washington's life and times. Especially those involving the American Revolution, in what was George Washington's home away from home, just miles from Mt. Vernon. Accompanied by a historian/author, immerse yourself in this special tour on a special day, taking place in one of America’s most fascinating towns. MEET outside the The Lyceum: Alexandria's History Museum 201 South Washington Street · Alexandria, VA About 2 hours in length. Fireworks on the waterfront afterwards. Fee: Prices start at $24. Pre-register and Pre-pay-- Eventbrite: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/george-washington-american-revolution-alexandria-va-july-4-2026-tickets-1964530877739?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/george-washington-american-revolution-alexandria-va-july-4-2026-tickets-1964530877739?aff=oddtdtcreator) Or: PayPal, sending $25 to [savvyveteran@gmail.com](http://savvyveteran@gmail.com/) [https://www.paypal.com/us/home](https://www.paypal.com/us/home) Or pay $24 at the start of the tour. Our packed itinerary will select from: • George Washington, Old Town surveyor • Lafayette's triumphant reunion tour to America, and his stay in Alexandria • The noted architects behind the city’s stunning architecture • Martha Washington's school • The Alexandria houses and taverns where GW stayed • John Adams, George Mason, Thomas Jefferson, Alexander Hamilton, and other Founders in town • Lafayette, first abolitionist • The site of the first six Presidential inaugural balls • The nation’s narrowest houses • Where GW passed by on the way to the battle of Yorktown • Where the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence were hatched • What did the Founding Fathers do for fun? Violent horse races & crazed drinking bouts from back in the day. • A World War Two munitions factory, and spy nest • How GW started a world war • The horrific attack on a Revolutionary War hero • "Give me liberty or give me death!" • The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier--of the American Revolution • The sea battle of Alexandria, 1776 • The real “Father” of his country • GW's fistfight And more! Your guide is a former “Tonight Show” writer, an ex-Presidential speechwriter, & author of a crime thriller set in Alexandria that draws on its rich history: [https://www.amazon.com/OLD-TOWN-HORROR-Americas-Historic-ebook/dp/B0BX27RWYG](https://www.amazon.com/OLD-TOWN-HORROR-Americas-Historic-ebook/dp/B0BX27RWYG) His book on D.C.’s history, The White House’s Unruly Neighborhood: Crime, Scandal & Intrigue in the History of Lafayette Square: [https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-white-houses-unruly-neighborhood-edward-p-moser/1131103788](https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-white-houses-unruly-neighborhood-edward-p-moser/1131103788) And his latest, a spy thriller set in Georgetown: [https://www.amazon.com/Femme-Fatalit](https://www.amazon.com/Femme-Fatalit)é-Lizzy-Thorne-Novel-ebook/dp/B0F4945MR5/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0 Plenty of excellent restaurants in the area for afterwards before the July 4 fireworks on the riverfront at sundown. Your host's tours are rated more highly than the Eiffel Tower or the Great Wall of China!: [https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g28970-d12791843-Reviews-Lafayette_Square_Tour_of_Scandal_Assassination_Intrigue-Washington_DC_District_of.html](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g28970-d12791843-Reviews-Lafayette_Square_Tour_of_Scandal_Assassination_Intrigue-Washington_DC_District_of.html) MEET outside The Lyceum: Alexandria's History Museum 201 South Washington Street · Alexandria, VA Every 250 years, let's celebrate America's Independence! And, before the tour, let's watch, if you like, the premier of the film Young Washington at Alexander's Hoffman Center moviehouse: https://www.angel.com/tickets/young-washington/showtime/626523108/seats/map

Join our weekly walking meetup to have fun, maintain a healthy lifestyle, meet new people, and enjoy nature! We meet Saturdays at 10am, by the bike racks and benches 150 feet in front of BUBBLES Hair Salon in Reston, leaving no later than 10:05. Every week we'll walk the Green Trail to Lake Anne Plaza (\~1 mile), pause there for 5-10 minutes (water, bio, and from April-Nov a Farmer's Market), then circle the lake (2 miles) before returning to our starting point. It's roughly 3.5 miles and takes about an hour and a half. Afterwards, some members will often head to a local restaurant to refuel and relax before tackling the rest of the day. This event is open to all ages and fitness levels, and both friends and dogs are always welcome! We recommend dressing for the weather (umbrella, water bottle, snow shoes, hat, etc.) since we'll always walk, rain or shine. By signing up, you accept and assume all risks and responsibilities with this activity, and nobody will be held liable.

(Cancelled because of excessive heat forecast. Hope to reschedule soon.) Another Fourth Of July is about to explode all around us, so it's time to renew the annual Independence Day hike at Great Falls (MD), an Adventuring tradition started by the late, great Damon Miller. This will be an easy round-trip stroll of about five miles, starting and ending at the historic Great Falls Tavern on the C&O Canal. Shortly after our start downstream, we will detour off the Canal towpath across Bear and Olmstead Islands to the Falls Overlook, where we can savor its ever-fabulous view of Great Falls. Retracing our steps to the towpath, we will pass several locks and the impressive Widewater Basin. Our turnaround point near Anglers Inn just beyond Widewater features nearby restroom facilities. Our return leg will be on the Berma Road atop the Washington Conduit that carries Potomac River water down to the Georgetown Reservoir. Once we're finished our hike back at the Tavern, we'll head over to the nearby picnic grounds to enjoy our lunches. Those who are still thirsty after our bully summer endeavor may consider adjourning to Anglers Inn for refreshments, if there's any room at the Inn. Bring plenty of beverages, lunch and/or snacks, sunscreen, bug spray and the $5 Adventuring trip fee; carpool passengers from Tenleytown Metro should also give their drivers $5, plus a share of the Park Admission Fee in case the entrance stations are staffed. (Bring a National Parks Pass if you have one; it will get your entire carload in for free.) Those needing rides and those able to offer rides will form our carpool at the Tenleytown Metro Station in front of the Panera at Wisconsin Avenue and Albemarle Street at 11 a.m. Carpool participants will rendezvous at the Great Falls Tavern with those driving directly to the Park at 11:45 a.m. The Tavern's address is 11710 MacArthur Boulevard, Potomac, MD 20854. We should finish by 3 p.m. NEW! Please [click here](https://adventuringlgbtq.com/Adventuring_Release_Form.pdf) to review our release form. When you RSVP to an event, you affirm that you have read and agree to the terms of the release. Everyone must RSVP on their own behalf.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/15th-annual-bike-ride-to-fort-mchenry-tickets-1990513169473 For informational purposes only. Want to ride July 4? Catonsville Rail to Trails is hosting a ride from downtown Catonsville to Ft. McHenry. You will need to register for a nominal fee on EventBrite. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/15th-annual-bike-ride-to-fort-mchenry-tickets-1990513169473 This is not an E-Bike Lovers ride. Members who would like to meet up and ride together can use the Discussion section to make arrangements. Looks like fun

Social Sips & Bites is setting sail in style! 🚢✨ Join us for an unforgettable escape filled with ocean views, elegant evenings, and island indulgence. The Bermuda await. Exciting updates coming soon—keep an eye out!

Walk 3 miles circle followed by brunch. Bring a bag and we can do our civic duty to cleanup as we pass trash

Guys, we need to do this slow. Mishki gets overheated, so we take breaks from time to time, plus there may be other folks who walk slow. To make everyone feel included in the group experience, we walk slow, we wait and are kind. **Meeting Spot**: We gather at the main parking lot close to the park entrance, under the trees. **Lake Artemesia Walk – College Park** Join us for a relaxed, easy-paced walk around beautiful Lake Artemesia. A chance to unwind, enjoy nature, and connect with others in a calm, welcoming setting. We’ll walk the scenic loop, take in the lake views, and enjoy light conversation along the way. All fitness levels are welcome. **Main parking lot: 55th Ave & Berwyn Rd,** College Park, MD 20740 Bring plenty of water, whatever you need for your hike, and your awesome authentic self. Keep it easygoing. RELEASE OF LIABILITY & ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT: By being a member of this Group, RSVPing to any Activity, or participating in any Activity, You accept and agree to the terms and conditions described below: 1. You acknowledge that hiking in nature carries the risk of potential harm to yourself, including the risk of injuries such as broken bones or muscle/tendon injuries, illness, disability, or death. 2. You agree that You will at all times be responsible for Yourself and Your own safety. 3. You release and hold harmless with respect to all injury, disability, death, or loss of property, whether caused by negligence or otherwise, this group's leadership and members for the hikes that you participate in. 4. You acknowledge and agree that this Group is merely a collection of friends or potential friends who enjoy doing activities, and that in no event does any Organizer or Other Member assume any responsibility or liability for You. 5\. You agree not to sue and to release\, discharge\, waive and hold harmless all organizers and other members from and against all liabilities\, claims\, demands\, losses\, damages\, suits and proceedings\, for negligence\, carelessness or any other cause which you may have or that hereafter may accrue arising\, resulting from or related to your membership in this group or participation in any activity\.

☀️🛼 **SUNDAY SKATE FUN: NW, LeDroit Park & The Met Branch Trail!** 🛼☀️ Ready for another beautiful Sunday roll? Since Freedom Plaza is still closed, we are shifting our starting point just across the street. The one and only **Big Mike** is leading the pack this week for an awesome, scenic loop through the heart of DC! This route takes us up through Northwest DC on New Hampshire Ave to a meander through LeDroit Park. We will close the loop via the Metropolitan Branch Trail before circling back through Capitol Hill and the National Mall. ### ⏱️ The Timing * **Meet Up:** 10:00 AM * **Roll Out:** 10:10 AM sharp! * **Meeting Location:** **Pershing Plaza** (since Freedom Plaza is closed) * **Skate Leader:** Big Mike ### 🗺️ The Route * **Distance:** \~12 miles * **Elevation Gain:** 420 feet * **Difficulty:** Intermediate * **Interactive Map Link:** [https://onthegomap.com/s/dmo62ogu](https://onthegomap.com/s/dmo62ogu) ### 🎒 What to Bring * **Water & Snacks:** Stay hydrated, friends! * **Safety Gear:** Helmets and pads are highly recommended. * **Good Vibes:** Ready to roll and have a blast! Grab your skates, check your gear, and let's get moving. See you Sunday at Pershing Plaza! #weareskatedc For up to the minute details, check Facebook and Instagram. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WashingtonAreaRoadskaters/events Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weareskatedc/ We hope to see you Sunday!

Special 250th Independence Day Tour!: Hamilton vs. Jefferson: The Great Debate! Washington D.C. Sunday, July 5, 2026, starting from the lobby of the Willard Hotel Held in and around the White House’s Lafayette Square, on the 250th anniversary weekend of Independence Day, this tour will examine the accomplishments of, and many crises faced, by Jefferson—D.C.’s first two-term President--during the American Revolution, in Europe, and during his eventful stay in the then-new Executive Mansion. And of his colleagues & rivals Alexander Hamilton, George Mason, Benjamin Banneker, James Madison, Aaron Burr, George Washington, & John Adams, and others, all of whom left a significant mark on the capital, and America, from the first July 4th and thereafter. Sunday, July 5, 5:45 pm. MEET in the grand lobby of the Willard Hotel Length: 2 hours. Nearest metros: Length: Farragut North or Farragut West or Metro Center Lafayette Square next to the White House has dozens of sites related to the American Revolution, Thomas Jefferson, Alexandria Hamilton, et al. Discover: • The other Jefferson memorial--outside the White House • A traitor’s attempted overthrow of Jefferson’s Lewis & Clark expedition • The man who reconciled Hamilton and Jefferson • George Mason’s battle against—the U.S. Constitution • The Marquis de Lafayette’s amazing & perilous associations with multiple American Presidents • Inventor of farm, kitchen, and spy apparatus • The Royal Navy's "impressment" makes a bad impression • The secret language of the Jefferson Memorial • The undeclared naval war, and declared trade war, that nearly wrecked Jefferson’s second term • Sally Hemings and Maria Cosway • Disputes over the Jefferson Memorial • Rollercoaster relationship with John Adams • “The room where it happened” • The “miracle mansion” of TJ’s militia chief • The scoundrel who betrayed Jefferson, killed Hamilton, and tried setting up his own country—with the head of the U.S. Army! • Architect-in-Chief: Did TJ secretly design the White House? • When Jefferson was almost hanged • How Mason & Jefferson ended the slave trade—from Minnesota to the Mediterranean! • President Jefferson’s “First Lady” • Did Jefferson plagiarize Mason? • How TJ came to write the Declaration of Independence, and its hidden coda • And more! Pre-Register and Pre-Pay via-- Eventbrite, at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/usa-250-hamilton-vs-jefferson-the-great-debate-july-5-2026-dc-tickets-1628454765039?aff=oddtdtcreator Or PayPal, sending $25 to paypal.me/EMoser460 Or pay $25 in cash at the start of the tour. We’re highly rated on TripAdvisor: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g28970-d12791843-Reviews-Lafayette_Square_Tour_of_Scandal_Assassination_Intrigue-Washington_DC_District_of.html Your tour guide is a former speechwriter to the President of the United States, a former writer for Jay Leno’s “The Tonight Show”, & author of the newly published spy novel, set in Georgetown, Femme Fatalité: https://www.amazon.com/Femme-Fatalité-Lizzy-Thorne-Novel-ebook/dp/B0F4945MR5 Also the hidden history of Lafayette Square—The White House’s Unruly Neighborhood!: https://www.amazon.com/White-Houses-Unruly-Neighborhood-Lafayette-ebook/dp/B082ZVDCD7/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr= And, The Lost History of the Capitol-- https://www.amazon.com/Lost-History-Capitol-Tumultuous-Congress-ebook/dp/B099JBSN9Q/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr= Questions?: [191.EP.JM.56@proton.me](mailto:191.EP.JM.56@proton.me) Bring your walking shoes, and perhaps water. Kick off this special Independence Day weekend with this unique tour! Think history is boring? Not on our tours!

Sorry I missed you last weekend! Anyone feeling stronger? 5.4 miles today :) Trying for a slightly earlier time this week to beat the heat and also to make sure we get done in time for everyone to do everything they need to on a Sunday! We can meet at the Capital Crescent Trailhead on Bethesda Ave by the Honda Dealership (the address I put is for the Honda Dealership, [4800 Bethesda Ave, Bethesda, MD 20814](https://maps.google.com/maps?vet=10CAAQoqAOahcKEwjIueTNruaUAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQCQ..i&pvq=CgwvZy8xMXhkam05MnIiFAoOb3VyaXNtYW4gaG9uZGEQAhgD&lqi=ChdvdXJpc21hbiBob25kYSBiZXRoZXNkYSIDiAEBSNfIpsjxgYCACForEAAQARgAGAEYAiIXb3VyaXNtYW4gaG9uZGEgYmV0aGVzZGEqBggCEAAQAZIBDGhvbmRhX2RlYWxlcuABAA&fvr=1&cs=1&um=1&ie=UTF-8&fb=1&gl=us&sa=X&ftid=0x89b7c97bf7253b1b:0x9a14f8d85d20b753), so people could easily GPS it, trailhead is right next to it). **Route:** Walk down CCT -> Hillandale Road -> Firefly Lookout -> Dorset Ave -> CCT -> Little Falls Stream Valley Trail -> The Creekside Trail -> Little Falls Stream Hiking Trail Riverfront View, then loop back. Should take about 2 hours, 5.4 miles. Dogs, kids, friends, etc. - all are welcome! [https://maps.app.goo.gl/dUUtMzeyavSE1VbM9](https://maps.app.goo.gl/dUUtMzeyavSE1VbM9)

Flow Beneath the Bells: Traditional Yoga at the Netherlands Carillon Cost: Free Level: Beginner Friendly Take a break from the noise and join us for a refreshing hour of yoga in one of Arlington’s most beautiful outdoor spaces. Whether you’ve been practicing for years or can’t touch your toes without negotiating first, you’re welcome here. This class is designed for beginners, but experienced practitioners will also enjoy the flow. During this session we’ll: • Learn foundational yoga poses • Explore simple breathing techniques to reduce stress and improve focus • Build strength, balance, and flexibility • Stretch out tight muscles from work, running, cycling, or life in general • Spend an hour moving, breathing, and reconnecting with ourselves No pressure. No competition. No yoga experience required. What to Bring • A yoga mat or large towel • Water • Comfortable clothes you can move in • An open mind A Few Quick Notes • Please arrive a few minutes early so we can start on time. • Avoid a heavy meal right before class. Light snacks are fine. • If your plans change, please update your RSVP so someone else can join. Safety Disclaimer Please consult your healthcare provider before starting any exercise program, including yoga. Participate at your own pace and listen to your body. Modify or skip any movement that doesn’t feel right for you. By attending this class, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own health and well-being and participate voluntarily.

[The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations. If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!). **HOW IT WORKS** **Step 1: Bring a topic** Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event. **Step 2: Circle up & share** We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds. **Step 3: Walk, talk & float** We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!" **Step 4: Feel more alive** Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times. *For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)* **HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC** A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about. Recent topics include: * "What are you passionate about right now?" * "What makes a good friend?" * "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?" * "How do you want to be remembered?" * "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?" Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter. **WHAT TO EXPECT** This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.* But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here. **FAQ** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space. * Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know. * Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **LOGISTICS** * If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs. * Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details. * If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋 **IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...** [The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up. * This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).

The only Metro Park with a fire tower! **History** [Scioto Grove Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/scioto-grove/) officially became the 19th park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system when it opened to the public on May 6, 2016. Located along a scenic bend of the Scioto River in Grove City, just south of Columbus, the 620-acre park was designed to blend preservation with modern recreation. Long before it became a park, this river corridor served as a vital footpath and trade route for Indigenous communities. Decades later, the mature forests and dramatic river bluffs caught the eye of conservationists looking to expand regional green spaces. The grand opening was a major milestone, drawing over 19,000 visitors in its very first weekend. The creation of the park was made possible through a sequence of land acquisitions and strong community partnerships. In October 2009, Franklin County voters approved a critical property tax levy that funded the initial purchase of 66 acres. Shortly after, the City of Grove City generously donated nearly 193 acres of land, previously known as Talbot Park, to anchor the project. Additional parcels were acquired using state grants from the Clean Ohio Conservation Fund, successfully closing the gap between properties by December 2012. This collaborative funding model ensured that pristine wilderness areas remained completely protected from commercial development. From its inception, the park aimed to introduce innovative amenities to the regional park system, most notably the concept of "urban backpacking". Through a key partnership with the outdoor gear retailer REI Co-op, the park established the scenic REI River Trail. This trail features five rustic, reservation-only campsites along the river, specifically designed to give newcomers a safe place to practice backpacking close to home. Additionally, planners prioritized making the park fully pet-friendly, allowing leashed dogs across all trails and areas. This open-pet policy uniquely distinguished Scioto Grove from many other traditional Columbus Metro Parks. As the park grew in popularity, community members established special commemorative landmarks to honor local lives. In June 2019, a dedicated memorial garden was unveiled near the park entrance in memory of Reagan Tokes, an Ohio State University student. The serene space features a central pond bordered by bright blue flowers, representing her favorite color. A primary buckeye tree stands alongside a dedicated plaque, surrounded by four additional buckeye trees to represent her immediate family members. This addition transformed a portion of the park into a meaningful place for community reflection, healing, and peace. The historical depth of the park took a significant leap forward with the relocation of a massive piece of Ohio history. In August 2023, Metro Parks officially unveiled the Keystone Forest Lookout Tower, which had been carefully moved from Jackson County, Ohio. Originally constructed in 1942 by the Aermotor Windmill Company, the 82-foot-tall metal structure spent decades guarding southern Ohio’s vast forests from devastating wildfires. Workers painstakingly disassembled, re-galvanized, and reassembled the historic landmark at Scioto Grove. Today, visitors can climb its 111 steep steps to experience a panoramic view stretching all the way to the downtown Columbus skyline. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Scioto Grove](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/SGR-map_1980px_2026.jpg). **Summary** We will hike around 5 miles on the Overlook, REI River, Mingo, and Arrowhead Trails. While the configuration of the trails can lead us to occasionally taking longer hikes than at other parks, Scioto Grove is not generally a very strenuous place to hike. If you use hiking poles and inadvertently forget them, this is not a park where you're likely to end up caring that much. That said, Scioto Grove is one of the better Metro Parks for hiking as well as other things. They are the only Metro Park with five camping areas where you can literally pitch a tent and sleep for the night. You must contact the park and reserve these in advance; they are however free. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet at the Arrowhead Picnic Area, near the restrooms and playground. Arrowhead is the main picnic and parking area of the park, and it also has the only water fountain at Scioto Grove. **After the Hike** Afterward, we will head over to [Grove City Brewing](https://www.grovecitybrewery.com/) for [drinks and food](https://www.grovecitybrewery.com/menu). They have pretty good hamburgers. I was mortified to discover that I've never had their [Grove City Hooyah](https://www.beermenus.com/beers/486553-grove-city-hooyah) before, but I will correct that during this event. The actual address of the brewery is [3946 Broadway, Grove City, OH 43123](https://www.google.com/maps/place/3946+Broadway,+Grove+City,+OH+43123/@39.8836912,-83.0919635,16z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88389b3a28d0f4ad:0x3d85c41f608406c6!8m2!3d39.8836912!4d-83.0919635!16s%2Fg%2F11g8dh6h1_?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAwOS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.

Click Here For More Videos: [https://www.facebook.com/share/r/17vTa7EuwG/](https://www.facebook.com/share/r/17vTa7EuwG/) The Biggest Salsa Night to hit your mid-week is happening at Latin City Wednesdays. Get the feel of the Latin Beat as your hips and feet groove the right way. Viva Dance Columbus (2809 Festival Lane Dublin, OH 43017) 830pm-930pm Cuban Salsa Lessons 930pm-Midnight Open Latin Dance Party 15 With Lesson 10 Just Open Dance Free Parking, No Need to Bring a dance partner, No Sandals Please and Plenty of Space to Move Around.

Join the Introverts of Columbus at Quarry Trails Metro Park for an afternoon walk in the Park. We'll meet near the parking lot area for about 15 minutes before heading out to chat and hike through the metro park. This will be a casually paced walk to allow people to get to know each other, and enjoy nature at the same time. 🚨🚨 Please note that there are multiple parking areas for the Quarry Trails Park, and please note the address in the event to get to the correct starting area! 🚨🚨