Roller Coasters

\*\***The Toronto History Walks Yearly Pass is available. Get it now for $125.00 for 1 year of unlimited tours, email** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com** **for more information or for signing up!\*\*** \*\* **Please note: Please e-transfer the ticket price when booking your space for this tour! You can e-transfer to the following email at:** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com** So in the winter of 2022 I listened to my guests. Time after time, the question that came up was, is there anything good and happy about history? Well not much, it's always a bit on the horrific side, and that is about all I can say, for now! Things are a changing for the better. Let's make the rest of 2026 a happy year! And with everything that has transpired in the last year and a half with tariffs and other undesirables let's have a good old time. I have been told that I am wordy, but that's ok. A tour about good times, good times in the sun, that's a bit of a stretch, but I did it. I put together a fun tour of the sunny side of the street. A tour of the good things in Toronto life from the Santa Claus Parade to decorated windows of both Eaton's and Simpson's, to trips over to the Island, and picnics with little puppies and kittens in High Park. Ok that's going a bit far, cut the puppies and the kittens! No dark secrets, no fires, cut off fingers, floods, tooth marks, disasters, murders, horrific deaths or innocent victims falling from windows, or crushed under subway trains, ghosts peeking out of buildings, human vampires, Spanish Flu or Spanish Civil War's impact on Toronto, or graves, I'm already starting to get homesick for the good times with all this fun stuff. Come along and experience a different and fun Toronto. In this strange era we are living in, a bit of sunshine is just the ticket. But no winter blues on this tour, I promise! You'll be as happy and contented as a **bunny in the sun.** And there is plenty of interesting history here in Toronto that is on the positive and fun, happy side, you'll see. This walking tour is for all fitness levels and skills. Please dress for the weather. This walking tour begins and ends on the steps of old City Hall at the northeast corner of Queen Street West and Bay Street. Hope to see you soon! This tour has a ticket price of $15.00 per person. \*\* **Please note: Please e-transfer the ticket price when booking your space for this tour! You can e-transfer to the following email at:** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com**

**🏐 Drop-In Volleyball at the Miles Nadal JCC** Come bump, set, and spike your way into a great game — right in the heart of the Annex! Join us for **friendly, casual volleyball** at the Miles Nadal JCC, just steps from Spadina Station. With two full courts available, this is a great opportunity to stay active, meet new people, and enjoy some light competition in a welcoming environment. \*\*\* **🏐 Event Details:** 📍 **Location:** 750 Spadina Ave. (enter through the Spadina doors) 🛑 **Check-In:** Stop by security and check in at the front desk when you arrive \*\*\* **🏐 Registration & Payment (Required in Advance):** RSVP on Meetup **does not reserve your spot**. To participate in Drop-In Play, you must register and pay in advance through our system. 👉 **[Register here](https://app.amilia.com/store/en/miles-nadal-jcc/api/Activity/Detail?activityId=yn6XJ5L)** 📞 **Or register by phone:** 416-924-6211 🔢 **Space is limited** and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Once full, no additional participants can be accommodated. \*\*\* **🏐 Other Info:** • Volleyballs are available for loan at the front desk with a $20 cash deposit and valid ID • This session is intended for **intermediate players and above** — participants should have a solid understanding of volleyball rules, scoring, and gameplay, and maintain proper court positioning in both serve, receive and transition play • Games are self-organized with regular rotation to ensure everyone gets time on the court • Friendly, inclusive atmosphere \*\*\* Come ready to play, connect, and have fun — we can’t wait to see you on the court!

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/locating-limberlost-2)** ***Please note that this adventure was originally planned for April 4th, but was rescheduled due to severe weather.*** ***Join us for this 10km trek through the quiet, stunning wilderness of Muskoka.*** We'll be exploring the edge of Algonquin Provincial Park in a little-known spot with pristine lakes, budding forests, and incredible rocky landscapes. As we hike along the trail and trace the edge of a crystal-clear lake, you can expect: * Dense, old-growth forests where towering trees create a dramatic canopy overhead * Ancient granite cliffs rising up from the shoreline, carved by glaciers over millions of years. * Possible glimpses of wildlife like deer, beavers, and all sorts of birds that call this place home. One of the coolest parts of the hike is getting to see the raw beauty of the Canadian Shield up close. We'll stop at several lookout points where you can take in the incredible panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. **There's a mix of terrain, including boardwalks, rocky sections, and well-maintained paths, which is suitable for any moderately fit hiker.** **Highlights** **Stunning Views -** Enjoy wild views of the iconic Canadian Shield at the many lookout points along this hike **Floating Boardwalk -** Stroll across a beautiful floating boardwalk along the lake’s edge **Sprawling Forest Reserve -** With over 10,000 acres and 70+ trails, this hidden gem has so much to offer **Event cost: $60+HST (for explorer members) - $50 optional transport available.** **Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/locating-limberlost-2)** **About Wilderness Union** Wilderness Union is deliberate about building an outdoors community that connects you to the life-changing magic of the outdoors and helps you find your people. Members range from 20-40 years old. The group is a mix of GTA locals and newcomers to Toronto from within Canada and abroad. Attendance numbers on Meetup don't reflect our actual event attendance - we typically have 15-20 community members at each event. Large enough that there's someone new to meet but small enough that it's not overwhelming! ***Learn more at our website [www.wildernessunion.com](https://www.wildernessunion.com/)***

CN Tower - $59 + Tax Ripley's Aquarium - $50 + Tax Food - Pay yourself.

**Explore the scenic Humber River in Toronto with our Kayak, Canoe, and stand-up paddle board 2-hour rentals during the week!** Use the following link to book your spot:[ ](https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/kayak-canoe-sup-rentals/)**[https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/kayak-canoe-sup-rentals/](https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/kayak-canoe-sup-rentals/)**[ ](https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/kayak-canoe-sup-rentals/) The calm meandering Humber River is one of Toronto’s hidden gems! Home to a huge variety of wildlife, including Beaver, Blue Heron, Deer and much more, you’ll feel like you’ve left the city behind! *Events are subject to weather and other factors out of our control. If we must cancel or delay an event we will those booked on the [torontoadventures.ca](http://torontoadventures.ca/) website know as soon as possible.* **Pricing (per 2-hour rental), Payable online through:** [https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/kayak-canoe-sup-rentals/](https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/kayak-canoe-sup-rentals/) Single Kayak (seats 1 person) : $40 +taxes Tandem Kayak (seats 2 people) : $70 +taxes Regular Canoe (seats 2 people) : $60 +taxes Large Canoe (seats 3 people) : $70 +taxes Stand-up Paddle Board ( 1 person): $40 +taxes **Included:** * Boat(s), Paddle(s), PFD(s)/ “Life Jacket(s)”, & Coast Guard Safety Kit. * Brief orientation covering paddling safety, Toronto Adventures’ rules, and the Humber River paddling route * Our friendly staff to help you launch your boat(s) and/or boards. * SUP Leash (For Paddle Board Rentals Only) **What to bring?** * Dress for the weather! * Wear closed-toe athletic footwear you don’t mind getting wet & muddy (shoes not required on SUPs). * Sunscreen, sunglasses & hats, are all recommended for sunny days. * A water bottle. * Government Issued Photo ID. **Important Information** Anyone under the age of 18 must have a Parent/Guardian/Adult accompany them all the times on the water. Online Adult Waivers are available through confirmation emails. For minors, waivers will need to be signed in person on location. There must be an Adult to Child ratio of 1:4 in the children are under 12 years of age. From ages 12-18 we require a 1:5 adult to youth ratio. We have lifejackets starting at 30 pounds and are fully adjustable. * Paddlers must be comfortable treading water while wearing a PFD and reaching a shoreline (minimum 20 metres to shore). * Late Fees Returning Boat(s)/Equipment – $20/15 minutes per boat. **[Google Link Directions](https://torontoadventures.ca/directions/#humberriverlocation)** **[Cancellation Policy](https://torontoadventures.ca/faq/#cancellation)** We hope to see you out on the water!

Picture above - the Amalfi Coast - Italy **MEDITERRANEAN ESCAPE! AMALFI COAST -ROME-VENICE-CROATIA - SLOVENIA -SICILY-MONTENEGRO- GREECE** **BE IN AWE! WITH THIS INCREDIBLE ITINERARY!** **5 DAYS PRE BOXING DAY** **Thursday Dec 11 - Tuesday 15 ONLY** **SAVE $250.00 off your Cabin** **2 for 1 AIR** **FREE AT SEA DRINK PACKAGE\* SPECIALITY DINING\*FREE WIFI FREE $50.00 U.S. EXCURSION PACKAGE PER PORT** **SOLO CABINS AVAILABLE!** TRAVEL BEFORE THE BUSY SEASON AND THE EXTREME HEAT! **BEST PRICE ALERT - THIS INCREDIBLE CRUISE INCLUDING AIR IS UNDER $3000.00 FOR INSIDE CABIN DOUBLE OCCUPANCY AND RETURN AIR FROM ITALY! ONLY $2,903.84** See full information below and call me and LETS ESCAPE together! (905) 471 7843 OR traveltheworldhorizons@gmail.com **THE MOST SOUGHT AFTER PORTS IN THE MEDITERRANEAN!** No roommate yet - hold your Cabin until we find one for you. Fly in two days early and explore ROME ITALY - Stay 2 days post cruise in VENICE with a Group Hotel If you are new to the group or have just been waiting for the right trip - give me a call at (905) 471 7843 and lets talk. You will meet new friend! Step out of your comfort zone and have an amazing cruise to look forward to. PRICING INSIDE CABIN $1146.05 + Port $409.78 + Tax $294.20 TOTAL =$1,850.03 2 Perks OCEAN VIEW $1,678,41 + Port $409.78+ Tax $294.20 =$2382.39 4 Perks BALCONY $2969.39 + Port $409.78 + Tax $294.20 =$3673.33 4 Perks SOLO CABINS - YES I HAVE A FEW! Inside Cabin including Port and Taxes - $3405.80 Ocean View Cabin including Port and Taxes $3897.98 Call me at (905) 471 7843! LETS ESCAPE!! See details below! Croatia and Sicily are one of the hottest destinations for 2026 Join two nights before the cruise (Optional) to enjoy the incredible city of Venice ! I will have group hotel. If you have not been to Venice this is the time to visit - if you have been - I know you want to go back! We are on the Norwegian Gem Final Payment January 17 2026 Package A Perks Beverage or Soda Package \* Premium Beverage Package\* Ultimate Specialty Dining Package - 1 Dinner \* $50.00 US Shore Excursion Package per cabin Internet Package - 150 Minutes per Person Or Package B Perks $100.00 US On Board Credit per cabin $50.00 US Shore Excursion Package per cabin Internet Package - 150.00 minutes per person 10 Professional Photo Package per Cabin ABSOLUTELY AMAZING ITINERARY - YOU WILL SEE SO MUCH!!! **PORTS OF CALL** **ROME** \- May 17 2026 Board 4:00pm **AMALFI COAST (Salerno)** May 18 2026 7:00am to 6:00pm **CANTANIA SICILY** May 19 2026 7:00am to 4:00pm **CORFU GREECE** May 20 2026 10:00am to 7:30pm **KOTOR MONTENGERO** May 21 2026 8:00am to 6:00pm **SPLIT CROATIA** May 22 2026 7:00am to 5:00pm **KOPER SLOVENIA** May 23 2026 8:00am to 7:00pm **VENICE (RAVENNA)** May 24 6:00am **FLIGHT** $1053.81 includes all taxes and fees. Toronto to Rome Venice to Toronto NOTE You can fly up to 2 days pre and or post - Once you make payment for your flight on January 17 no changes can be made to your flight schedule. You will receive your flight 30 + days before the cruise, probably before that. Norwegian is now offering specialized bookings through their air department - ask me for details. I need Credit Card Expiry and 3 Digit Code Name as it appears on your Passport Mailing Address Phone Number Date of Birth All Information is private and not shared INSURANCE IS Necessary - I will speak to you personally Hope you can join us for this incredible vacation \* 20 Gratuity on Dining and Beverage Package Staff Gratuity not included CANCELLATION:POLICY 120 Days Prior - No Penalty 119 to 106 Days - 25% Penalty 105 to 91 Days -50% Penalty 90-61 Days -75% Penalty 60 Days or less 100% Penalty. BOOKING Call me at (905) 471 7843 or email me at [leeann.jensen@sympatico.ca](mailto:leeann.jensen@sympatico.ca) \*20% Gratuity on Beverage Packages and Dining Staff Gratuity not included Please make sure you are full insured - ask me for details. CRUISE FIRST CERTIFICATE - Deposit $250.00 Canadian and Norwegian will match your deposit with $250.00 FREE $$$$ Total deposit $500.00!!!! If you cancel the cruise the full $500.00 will go back to your Norwegian Latitude Account for another cruise booking. You keep the free money and there is no expiry date. The deposit does not go back to your credit card. You need a Passport with minimum 6 months remaining from date of arrival.Prices/itinerary can change any time. Travel Agency Nexion 380 Wellington St Tower B 6th Floor London #67927204 (519) 660 6966 LeeAnn (905) 471 7843

Looking to play at Eglinton Flats this Sunday. Hopefully it isn't super packed or anything this long weekend.

Picture above - the Amalfi Coast - Italy **MEDITERRANEAN ESCAPE! AMALFI COAST -ROME-VENICE-CROATIA - SLOVENIA -SICILY-MONTENEGRO- GREECE** **BE IN AWE! WITH THIS INCREDIBLE ITINERARY!** **5 DAYS PRE BOXING DAY** **Thursday Dec 11 - Tuesday 15 ONLY** **SAVE $250.00 off your Cabin** **2 for 1 AIR** **FREE AT SEA DRINK PACKAGE\* SPECIALITY DINING\*FREE WIFI FREE $50.00 U.S. EXCURSION PACKAGE PER PORT** **SOLO CABINS AVAILABLE!** TRAVEL BEFORE THE BUSY SEASON AND THE EXTREME HEAT! **BEST PRICE ALERT - THIS INCREDIBLE CRUISE INCLUDING AIR IS UNDER $3000.00 FOR INSIDE CABIN DOUBLE OCCUPANCY AND RETURN AIR FROM ITALY! ONLY $2,903.84** See full information below and call me and LETS ESCAPE together! (905) 471 7843 OR traveltheworldhorizons@gmail.com **THE MOST SOUGHT AFTER PORTS IN THE MEDITERRANEAN!** No roommate yet - hold your Cabin until we find one for you. Fly in two days early and explore ROME ITALY - Stay 2 days post cruise in VENICE with a Group Hotel If you are new to the group or have just been waiting for the right trip - give me a call at (905) 471 7843 and lets talk. You will meet new friend! Step out of your comfort zone and have an amazing cruise to look forward to. PRICING INSIDE CABIN $1146.05 + Port $409.78 + Tax $294.20 TOTAL =$1,850.03 2 Perks OCEAN VIEW $1,678,41 + Port $409.78+ Tax $294.20 =$2382.39 4 Perks BALCONY $2969.39 + Port $409.78 + Tax $294.20 =$3673.33 4 Perks SOLO CABINS - YES I HAVE A FEW! Inside Cabin including Port and Taxes - $3405.80 Ocean View Cabin including Port and Taxes $3897.98 Call me at (905) 471 7843! LETS ESCAPE!! See details below! Croatia and Sicily are one of the hottest destinations for 2026 Join two nights before the cruise (Optional) to enjoy the incredible city of Venice ! I will have group hotel. If you have not been to Venice this is the time to visit - if you have been - I know you want to go back! We are on the Norwegian Gem Final Payment January 17 2026 Package A Perks Beverage or Soda Package \* Premium Beverage Package\* Ultimate Specialty Dining Package - 1 Dinner \* $50.00 US Shore Excursion Package per cabin Internet Package - 150 Minutes per Person Or Package B Perks $100.00 US On Board Credit per cabin $50.00 US Shore Excursion Package per cabin Internet Package - 150.00 minutes per person 10 Professional Photo Package per Cabin ABSOLUTELY AMAZING ITINERARY - YOU WILL SEE SO MUCH!!! **PORTS OF CALL** **ROME** \- May 17 2026 Board 4:00pm **AMALFI COAST (Salerno)** May 18 2026 7:00am to 6:00pm **CANTANIA SICILY** May 19 2026 7:00am to 4:00pm **CORFU GREECE** May 20 2026 10:00am to 7:30pm **KOTOR MONTENGERO** May 21 2026 8:00am to 6:00pm **SPLIT CROATIA** May 22 2026 7:00am to 5:00pm **KOPER SLOVENIA** May 23 2026 8:00am to 7:00pm **VENICE (RAVENNA)** May 24 6:00am **FLIGHT** $1053.81 includes all taxes and fees. Toronto to Rome Venice to Toronto NOTE You can fly up to 2 days pre and or post - Once you make payment for your flight on January 17 no changes can be made to your flight schedule. You will receive your flight 30 + days before the cruise, probably before that. Norwegian is now offering specialized bookings through their air department - ask me for details. I need Credit Card Expiry and 3 Digit Code Name as it appears on your Passport Mailing Address Phone Number Date of Birth All Information is private and not shared INSURANCE IS Necessary - I will speak to you personally Hope you can join us for this incredible vacation \* 20 Gratuity on Dining and Beverage Package Staff Gratuity not included CANCELLATION:POLICY 120 Days Prior - No Penalty 119 to 106 Days - 25% Penalty 105 to 91 Days -50% Penalty 90-61 Days -75% Penalty 60 Days or less 100% Penalty. BOOKING Call me at (905) 471 7843 or email me at [leeann.jensen@sympatico.ca](mailto:leeann.jensen@sympatico.ca) \*20% Gratuity on Beverage Packages and Dining Staff Gratuity not included Please make sure you are full insured - ask me for details. CRUISE FIRST CERTIFICATE - Deposit $250.00 Canadian and Norwegian will match your deposit with $250.00 FREE $$$$ Total deposit $500.00!!!! If you cancel the cruise the full $500.00 will go back to your Norwegian Latitude Account for another cruise booking. You keep the free money and there is no expiry date. The deposit does not go back to your credit card. You need a Passport with minimum 6 months remaining from date of arrival.Prices/itinerary can change any time. Travel Agency Nexion 380 Wellington St Tower B 6th Floor London #67927204 (519) 660 6966 LeeAnn (905) 471 7843

**MEDITERRANEAN ESCAPE! AMALFI COAST -ROME-VENICE-CROATIA - SLOVENIA -SICILY-MONTENEGRO- GREECE** **May 17 2026** **LAST CHANCE** **FINAL PAYMENT THIS SATURDAY BY 5:00PM** **(905) 471 7843 or email traveltheworldhorizons@gmail.com** BE IN AWE! WITH THIS INCREDIBLE ITINERARY! You can also stay up to two days pre and post and explore ITALY - Rome and Venice. I will set you up in a great hotel and suggest excursions. **TRAVEL BEFORE THE BUSY SEASON AND EXTREME HEAT!** 2 for 1 AIR - Only $1.034.86 per person! Save another $150.00 off your cabin price. **PICK YOUR PERKS!** **FREE AT SEA DRINK PACKAGE\*** **SPECIALITY DINING\*** **FREE WIFI** **FREE $50.00 U.S. EXCURSION PACKAGE PER PORT = up to $300.00 U.S in discounts** **SOLO CABINS AVAILABLE!** **BEST PRICE ALERT - THIS INCREDIBLE CRUISE INCLUDING AIR IS UNDER $3000.00 FOR INSIDE CABIN DOUBLE OCCUPANCY AND RETURN AIR FROM ITALY! ONLY $2,903.84** See full information below and call me and LETS ESCAPE together! (905) 471 7843 OR traveltheworldhorizons@gmail.com THE MOST SOUGHT AFTER PORTS IN THE MEDITERRANEAN! Fly in two days early and explore ROME ITALY - Stay 2 days post cruise in VENICE with a Group Hotel If you are new to the group or have just been waiting for the right trip - give me a call at (905) 471 7843 and lets talk. You will meet new friend! Step out of your comfort zone and have an amazing cruise to look forward to. PRICING INSIDE CABIN $1146.05 + Port $409.78 + Tax $294.20 TOTAL =$1,850.03 2 Perks OCEAN VIEW $1,678,41 + Port $409.78+ Tax $294.20 =$2382.39 4 Perks BALCONY $2969.39 + Port $409.78 + Tax $294.20 =$3673.33 4 Perks **SOLO CABINS - YES I HAVE A FEW!** Inside Cabin including Port and Taxes - $3405.80 Ocean View Cabin including Port and Taxes $4420.58 **ROOMMATES NEEDED** Female looking to share inside cabin Female looking to share ocean view  Call me at (905) 471 7843! LETS ESCAPE!! See details below! **Croatia and Sicily are two of the hottest destinations for 2026!** Join two nights before the cruise (Optional) to enjoy the incredible city of Venice ! I will have group hotel. If you have not been to Venice this is the time to visit - if you have been - I know you want to go back! We are on the Norwegian Gem Final Payment January 17 2026 Package A Perks Beverage or Soda Package \* Premium Beverage Package\* Ultimate Specialty Dining Package - 1 Dinner \* $50.00 US Shore Excursion Package per cabin Internet Package - 150 Minutes per Person Or Package B Perks $100.00 US On Board Credit per cabin $50.00 US Shore Excursion Package per cabin Internet Package - 150.00 minutes per person 10 Professional Photo Package per Cabin ABSOLUTELY AMAZING ITINERARY - YOU WILL SEE SO MUCH!!! PORTS OF CALL ROME - May 17 2026 Board 4:00pm AMALFI COAST (Salerno) May 18 2026 7:00am to 6:00pm CANTANIA SCILY May 19 2026 7:00am to 4:00pm CORFU GREECE May 20 2026 10:00am to 7:30pm KOTOR MONTENGERO May 21 2026 8:00am to 6:00pm SPLIT CROATIA May 22 2026 7:00am to 5:00pm KOPER SLOVENIA May 23 2026 8:00am to 7:00pm VENICE (RAVENNA) May 24 6:00am FLIGHT $1034.86 includes all taxes and fees. Toronto to Rome Venice to Toronto NOTE You can fly up to 2 days pre and or post - Once you make payment for your flight on January 17 no changes can be made to your flight schedule. You will receive your flight 30 + days before the cruise, probably before that. Norwegian is now offering specialized bookings through their air department - ask me for details. I need Credit Card Expiry and 3 Digit Code Name as it appears on your Passport Mailing Address Phone Number Date of Birth All Information is private and not shared INSURANCE IS Necessary - I will speak to you personally Hope you can join us for this incredible vacation \* 20 Gratuity on Dining and Beverage Package Staff Gratuity not included CANCELLATION:POLICY 120 Days Prior - No Penalty 119 to 106 Days - 25% Penalty 105 to 91 Days -50% Penalty 90-61 Days -75% Penalty 60 Days or less 100% Penalty. BOOKING Call me at (905) 471 7843 or email me at [leeann.jensen@sympatico.ca](mailto:leeann.jensen@sympatico.ca) \*20% Gratuity on Beverage Packages and Dining Staff Gratuity not included Please make sure you are full insured - ask me for details. CRUISE FIRST CERTIFICATE - Deposit $150.00 Canadian and Norwegian will match your deposit with $150.00 FREE $$$$ Total deposit $300.00!!!! If you cancel the cruise the full $500.00 will go back to your Norwegian Latitude Account for another cruise booking. You keep the free money and there is no expiry date. The deposit does not go back to your credit card. You need a Passport with minimum 6 months remaining from date of arrival. Prices/itinerary can change any time. Travel Agency Nexion 380 Wellington St Tower B 6th Floor London #67927204 (519) 660 6966 LeeAnn (905) 471 7843

Do you sometimes feel like you do well in life then something happens and you slide back, never quite getting ahead. At this Meetup you'll find out how to identify what actually causes the lows, the highs and everything in between. More importantly you’ll get the secret of how to gain control over your life so the highs are higher and the lows go away. Wouldn’t it be nice to stop the wild roller coaster ride for good? Or at least make it a fun roller coaster ride, with more ups and downs. There is a hidden factor that will be going over and you’re going to be quite surprised what it is and how much it affects your life. Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to the event. We look forward to seeing you there. This group is hosted at the Dianetics and Scientology Life Improvement Center.

**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.

WQC has weekly Thursday night social nights at the Westerville Java Central. Come and grab a coffee and connect with the community: low stakes, chill environment, and tasty drinks. No registration is required; come as you are.

Short North Street Skates return Saturday, April 4 and we’re excited to get back rolling together. These weekly rollouts are a chance to move through the city as a group, build community, and create more visibility for skating and small-wheeled movement in Columbus. Details: Meet: 1160 N High St 9:30 AM meet 10:00 AM rollout All wheels welcome We’ll be skating through the Short North and surrounding areas at a steady, social pace. Routes will use a mix of streets and bike lanes, so comfort navigating the city is helpful, but you don’t need to be an expert. If you’ve been meaning to come out, this is a great place to start. Come solo or bring a friend!

We'll get in around 4 miles at Three Creeks Metro Parks, primarily natural trails. 17-18 minute miles, no one left behind, and faster walkers are free to lead out. Optional lunch after! If you're joining for hiking all the metro parks, this is the sixth one!