Cycling

Most of us only know ***the Belgian sea side*** from being there in summertime when it’s full of tourists, noisy teracces, ice cream vendors,… But have you ever seen it in winter where it looks somewhat different ? Have you discovered ***the peacefull environment***, did you feel the ***winter wind in your face*** and have you walked the ***empty beaches*** ? These will be your companions for this trip and if we ***are lucky we may even see seals lying on the beach***. For this hike we ***mostly follow the GR 5A- Streek GR Kust*** and walk through a landscape where sea, beach, dunes and forests constantly alternate. After the hike we will continue our good habit of ***taking a nice drink/ice cream/snack in a local pub in Blankenberge*** before returning to Brussels. ***Please don't forget to pay Maikel a drink :-)*** We will walk at an ***average speed of 5km/h***. We will walk both on ***paved and unpaved roads***. ***I’ve never walked this road before***, so it’s possible that there are some mistakes in the planning. ●●***Meeting point*** We meet at ***08h40 in front of the Starbucks in Brussels Central***. Our train (IC 530 - Oostende) leaves at ***08h56 from platform 2.*** We arrive at our ***destination Oostende at 10h29*** and start our hike to Blankenberge. ●● ***Train tickets*** \- single ticket Brussels to Oostende \(14\,60 € weekend / 8\,8 € with train card\+\) \- single ticket Blankenberge to Brussels \(14\,10 € weekend / 8\,4 € with train card\+\) ●● ***Train back to Brussels*** There is a train from Blankenberge to Brussels every hour at ***XX:03*** **LAST TRAIN = 22h02** ●● **Specifics** distance: \~ 24 km elevation gain: \~ 127 m net walking time ***(breaks are not included here):*** \~ 5h00 level: ***easy - open for everyone*** ***In the unlikely case of too bad weather we may cancel a hike even few hours before the event. If this must happen, we will of course update the Meetup website and send out an email to those registered. So it’s important to have access to either the Meetup.com website and/or your emails.*** ***●● What to bring*** \- warm comfortable hiking clothes – waterproof hiking shoes \- extra socks to change \+ compeed for blisters \- enough water or warm drinks and food for the breaks \- sun protection oil\, a hat and sunglasses OR a raincoat (please consult the weather forcast on www.meteo.be ) \- a flashlight and a yellow/orange safety vest for when it gets dark ***\- some money to pay Maikel a drink ;\-\)*** ***●● Basic rules*** Please RSVP only ***if you really intend to come***. And if your plans change update your RSVP ***latest 1 day before the hike*** so other people still have the possibility to join. This is basic courtesy towards others. ***People who cancel last day or don’t show up for the hike will be blacklisted for future hikes.*** Do not show up for a hike unless you are on the roster (i.e. “yes RSVP”, but not “wait listed”). ***●● Acknowledgement of member responsibility and release of liability*** ***By signing up for this event, you agree to release the organizers from any responsibility and liability in all claims. As the participation is strictly voluntary and you freely choose to join, it is the responsibility of individuals participating to ensure that they are fit enough and have adequate coverage to protect themselve***

Hi, Brussels Runners is also accessible as a club on Strava where you can sign up for the same events. ([Strava Event](https://www.strava.com/clubs/1211350/group_events/2021351)) Join us for our weekly Saturday run at 10 am at Bois de la Cambre ! We run 5 kms around Bois de la Cambre divided in one bigger lap of 3,5 kms and a smaller one of 1,5 kms. Both start and end at the Woodpecker so, if needed, you can stop there after the first lap. Our goal is to make running more accessible, for that, the pace is very beginner friendly which is around 06:30-07:00 min/km. Let's all have a drink after and chat at the Woodpecker of Bois de la Cambre. Excited to see you there, Rouge Run Club Acknowledgement of member responsibility and release of liability By signing up for this event, you agree to release the organizers from any responsibility and liability in all claims. As the participation is strictly voluntary and you freely choose to join, it is the responsibility of individuals participating to ensure that they are fit enough and have adequate coverage to protect themselves.

. Find us on Facebook to see what's actually happening. Bring your own knitting or crochet project and join other people who enjoy yarn crafts for a relaxing couple of hours on Saturday afternoons. The 1st Saturday of the month is not an in-person meet-up, but on zoom. All people and all levels welcome, including beginners, whom we are happy to help get started (although we don't run classes). No charge. All you need is some yarn and a crochet hook or a pair of knitting needles. We are very friendly so don't be shy. The venue may change from time to time so please check back on the day before the event to be sure you have it right. We mostly speak English, but people in the group are very international and speak many languages. Looking forward to seeing you.

Hi everyone, This coffee morning event is @MIR Concept Coffee Store! Saturday, 10 January 2026, from 10:00 - 13:00. MIR opened its doors about 3 years ago, right off Place Jourdan. Doriana, the owner, is a super nice host, and is excited to have our group as her café. The café is very beautiful and has many yummy food options. The Instagram channel: https://www.instagram.com/mirconceptstore/ **The address is:** MIR Concept Coffee Store Rue Gray 4A 1040 Etterbeek *** 1. The **prime time** of the event is **10:30 - 12:30**. That's when most people will be there. 2. When you enter the gallery, it's either on the right-hand side or left-hand side of its hallway, depending which entrance you take. 3. If you intend **to join past 12:00** (high noon), then there is no need to register. Just come and join! 4. **DON'T forget to cancel** if you can't join! 5. **Please, be respectful towards each other during the event. (And after ;))** **As always, feel free to follow us on INSTAGRAM!** [https://instagram.com/weekendmorningcoffee?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==](https://instagram.com/weekendmorningcoffee?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==) **THE STRUCTURE of THE EVENT:** * I will post the event on Saturday/Sunday evening for the following Saturday. * I send out a reminder to everyone on Friday. * There is sometimes a waiting list. * In case RSVP is closed (once there are 10-15 people on the waiting list), I might reopen it on Friday, depending on the number of cancellations in the meantime. * **For everyone on the waiting,** please check your status and messages on Friday evening the latest. I message everyone on the waiting list on Friday. * **Please, move to "not going" AS SOON AS you know that you can't come anymore, that includes everyone who is on the waiting list.** **IMPORTANT:** * **Please, be respectful towards each other during the event. (And after ;))** * When you register yourself, be careful not to register accidentally a +1 guest (unless you bring a guest). It happens very often. * If you have any questions then, message me. *** **A MESSAGE FOR NEWCOMERS:** *In the three years of hosting this coffee group, I have met many people who struggle with anxieties when coming to an event for the first time. Sometimes, it took them more than one attempt before being able to join.* *Occasionally, people reach out to me before the event, and I have always been grateful for that as it offers the opportunity to communicate with each other and to find the best and most gentle way for that person to join the group.* *I would like to encourage everyone who struggles with this to contact me before. It would really be too bad if you can't join us, as it mostly gets better the second or third time you come.* *In addition to that, if you arrive and notice any signs of nervousness or fear, you can always let me know right then.* **THANK YOU AND SEE YOU ALL ON Saturday!**

**Founders Running Club** (FRC) brings founders, investors, tech, creative people and startup enthusiasts together for weekly easy runs and networking. We like to be comfortable when we run and finish with coffee and conversations. Choose your pace or follow a pacer—pets, friends, family, are welcome. 🗓️ Launched in San Francisco, July 16, 2022 🌍 Now in 50+ cities 📅 Running + Networking events + Community **Join the community** [http://foundersrc.com/chats](http://foundersrc.com/chats) **Instagram** [https://www.instagram.com/frc_brussels](https://www.instagram.com/frc_brussels) **Global FRC**: Instagram [http://instagram.com/foundersrc/](http://instagram.com/foundersrc/) LinkedIn [http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/](http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/) Strava [http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC](http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC) Website [http://foundersrc.com/](http://foundersrc.com/)

**Book your session [here](https://bilistudio.co/booking)** Find an easy-going way to practice yoga. These classes are designed to be light-hearted for beginners while still offering challenges for more experienced practitioners. Whether you’re just starting out or have been practicing for a while, there’s something fun for everyone! Mats and blocks will be provided, and the class will include a relaxing sound bath during the cooldown. The venue is easy to reach by public transport and by bike, with covered bike parking available. **Book your session [here](https://bilistudio.co/booking)** See you on the mat! 🌸

Join us on our weekly Sunday run to get your day started on the right foot. Whether you're a first-timer with the Brussels Runners Meetup or a familiar face, we can't wait to see you there! [Find us on Strava](https://www.strava.com/clubs/1211350/group_events/3431565227328502990) *What to Expect:* Distance : \~13 km. Pace : \~6 min/km. Mixed Terrain : A combination of dirt paths, forest trails, and possibly some road sections. Scenic Views : Enjoy the beauty of nature as we traverse diverse landscapes. Good Company : Run with like-minded individuals and make new friends. Post-Run Coffee : Optional post-run gathering for refreshments and camaraderie. Bag Drop : Available. **Acknowledgement of member responsibility and release of liability.** By signing up for this event, you agree to release the organizers from any responsibility and liability in all claims. As the participation is strictly voluntary and you freely choose to join, it is the responsibility of individuals participating to ensure that they are fit enough and have adequate coverage to protect themselves. Questions and comments are welcome.

Or from Trammuseum to Africa museum. Or from Woluwe park to Tervuren park. Are you aware of all the ponds and lakes east of Brussels? How would they look like when frozen? Let's do 16 km to find out.😊 The moderate speed (4+ km/hour) hike takes us from the Woluwe park, through fancy neighborhood and Rouge Cloitre through the big forest where multiple ponds and streams are to be discovered in their semi-/frozen state. Before we end up in the nice cafetaria of the Africuseum, with maybe a mug of warm chocolat, we will wander through the forest to have a view of the lakes of the Tervuren park. Please add layers of clothing to handle -5°C as well as 0°C. Bring your thermosflask with warm liquid and some snack. The cafetaria is close to the tram44 end/start location. https://sttimetabmainsiteprdwe1.blob.core.windows.net/horaires/44/Horaires/20260105/NL_HL_44_20260105_Col.pdf For people out of town, you can park your car at Brasserie des Étangs Mellaerts.

Hi WW's, This Sunday we shall do a loop walk starting and finishing in Elewijt. The walk should look something like this : https://mapy.com/s/dulorotugo You should wear good clothing and walking shoes for all eventualities. Bring snacks and drink to keep you going. The Apres Walk venue will be at the the Sweyn Beer brewery , where they have craft beers . I think they serve small snacks to have with your drink. [beerhome - Sweynbeer](https://sweyn.beer/) We plan to start on time, so if you are late , please follow the map to catch us up. We will meet in front of the Sint-Hubertuskerk. Tervuursesteenweg 774 is opposite. There is parking nearby. By joining this event, you decline any responsibility to Waterloo Walkers. Thank you for your understanding. See you on Sunday. Rory.

**About the session** This is a curated mixed doubles of Intermediate and Advanced levels. It’s an invitational group, no beginners or casual/amateur play. We balance courts for pace and quality. New and Interested in being part of our group? Join here, https://chat.whatsapp.com/KqdVhyuBhFz1d56lv4WVVi Please Direct Message the Organizer with your level. Approval is required before your first RSVP. **Format & level** * Competitive mixed doubles match play with quick rotations * Self-umpired with rally scoring to 21. * We may adjust pairings to keep games balanced. **Shuttles** We provide Yonex Mavis 2000 (Medium, Yellow) match-grade nylon shuttles. Please don’t mix in other shuttles during games. **Other Info** * We’ll post exact court numbers in the WhatsApp group before each session. Check on the day. * To secure your spot, RSVP on Meetup and complete payment by thursday evening (RSVP deadline). Unpaid RSVPs may be moved to the Waitlist so we can release/adjust courts fairly. * Waitlist: If enabled, members may be promoted automatically as spots open. So check regularly for the latest update. **House rules** * Shoes: Clean, non-marking indoor shoes only. * Timing: Arrive 10 minutes early for warm-up and court assignment. Running late? DM the Organizer. * Etiquette: Call lines fairly, rotate quickly, and mind court boundaries. No Aggressive language. * Gear: Bring your racket, water, and a towel. shuttles are provided. **Contact** Questions or first-time approval requests? DM the Organizer with your playing level and availability.

Hello! This is a meet-up to play tennis from 2 pm to 4 pm on Sunday. Meeting is on the courts. The courts are booked under the name Jean-Marc. This event is for intermediate and advanced players and not organised for novice players or beginners. Please make sure to bring the exact sum of 10 € in cash. The event is non-commercial. This sum covers the cost of the courts reserved. The organizer is not there to make money out of you. Ladies are encouraged to join. If anyone wants to drop out, they should do it on Saturday morning, not on Sunday the day of the meetup, another wise it would be too late to find a replacement in time or to cancel a court in time with reimbursement. If you don't do this, you will be asked by the organizer to reimburse your participation fee. If this happens too late then those who have cancelled after Saturday morning will have to cover the extra cost for reserving the courts. In the past meetups, it happened too many times that we were an oneven number and because of that all those present had less fun to play. If you don't show up without giving a written excuse in time, the first future participation will be cancelled and you will be asked to reimburse the participation fee. If it happens too many times you will not be able to participate anymore. In case if we are an uneven number of players, then the last player (except the host of course who has to collect the money) can leave or persuade other players to play with him or her. Of course if the last player leaves, then he or she doesn't have to pay the participation fee. If this player leaves, he or she will be added on a future event by the host or organizer in the participation list if the player is far away in the waiting list. This is the advantage of leaving on a voluntary basis;-). We operate on the principle of Fair Play as we do not have umpires or referees. Any disputes or disagreements over line calls or scores should be resolved immediately on the court and, when agreement is not possible, the point or game should be replayed. To be able to replay the game, 3 players need to agree on that without manipulation of the one who disputes an entire game, anotherwise injustice could occur where in the end possibly the biggest cheater could win... This situation applies also, if the host or the organizer is involved. When one of the players still doesn't accept this compromise, then it should be reported (meetup message by preference) to the organizer or host of the meetup event. One of the consequences could be that the first upcoming event could be cancelled by the organizer for the player who doesn't comply with the compromise to play the point or the game again. If the same player does that again for a second time, then the person will see 4 of his next tennis meetups cancelled. If this happens a third time with the same player, then the player in question will be banned from all future tennis meetups with an exclusion as a final result. Whenever there is a big problem, it should be reported as well to the organizer of the group so he can, if necessary, take actions to improve the situation for all the players. Please also note that if you are the first on the waiting list, you will automatically be moved up to the attendance list if someone pulls out. So if you are on the waiting list and see that you cannot attend, please also change your status to not going. If you would like to organize a meet up either this week or next week please get in touch with me, my name is Jean-Marc. It will depend on your initiatives to create more tennis meetups per week.

Join us for a **guided snowshoeing experience** in **Longfaille**, a quiet village just a few minutes from Botrange - but **away from the crowds**. ### 📍 Location 📌 **Longfaille** (small, peaceful village with easy parking) ➡️ **Car access required** – carpooling is encouraged ### ⏰ Schedule 🕙 **Flexible timing**, depending on the group and weather ➡️ Possible start **in the morning (around 10:00)** or **in the afternoon (around 14:00)** ⏱️ Duration: **1.5 to 2 hours** ⚠️ Weather can change (rain or warmer temperatures possible). Final confirmation will be given shortly before the event. ### 👟 Equipment included ✔️ Snowshoes ✔️ Snowshoes available for children 👉 No personal equipment needed (just warm clothes and suitable shoes). ### 👥 Group size 🔹 **Maximum 5 adults per group** 🔹 Children welcome (depending on equipment availability) ### 🚗 Transport 🚘 Participants must be able to **come by car** ➡️ Please indicate when registering if you have a car or need a ride --- ### ℹ️ Good to know * Guided by a local outdoor professional * Suitable for beginners / intermediate level * Relaxed, friendly atmosphere in nature 👉 **Sign up** and **join the WhatsApp group**, and we’ll confirm the final time based on participants and weather conditions. See you in the snow ❄️😊 By joining this event, you agree to the Sunday Vacations [Terms & Conditions](https://www.sundayvacations.com/terms), [Privacy Policy](https://www.sundayvacations.com/privacy) & [Code of Conduct](https://www.sundayvacations.com/code)

Join us for a magical day trip to the "Pearl of the Eifel"! We will take the train to Eupen and a scenic bus ride into the German hills for a crisp winter hike, followed by a warming lunch in the historic town center. 🌨️ Why We Are Going (The Winter Magic) Monschau is often called a "real-life snow globe." Under a blanket of snow, the town transforms: * The "Snow Globe" Effect: The slate roofs of the 300-year-old half-timbered houses look stunning dusted in white. * River Views: The Rur River winds through the town, and in winter, the banks and old water wheels create a perfect frosty backdrop. * Panoramic Silence: We will hike up to viewpoints where you can see the entire snowy valley and the Eifel hills stretching out in winter silence. 📍 Meeting Point: Brussels Central Station (Main Hall, near the departure board) ⏰ Meeting Time: 07:45 AM (Departure is 08:01 sharp!) 🥾 The Hike: Monschau Rur Valley Loop 35 We will tackle Loop 35, a scenic route mixing nature and history. * Distance: 8.0 km * Elevation Gain: ~295 m * Duration: ~3 hours * Difficulty: Moderate * Terrain: Winter forest trails, cobblestones, and potential snow/mud. 🚆 The Schedule (Confirmed) We are following a strict schedule to maximize daylight. 🏁 DEPARTURE: * 07:45: Meet at Brussels Central. * 08:01: Take IC Train (Direction Eupen). * 09:42: Arrive at Eupen. * Transfer (16 min) * 09:58: Take Bus 385 (Direction Monschau/Kalterherberg) from Eupen Bahnhof. * 10:27: Arrive at Monschau Schmiede. * 10:30 - 13:30: HIKE (Approx. 3 hours) 🍽️ LUNCH: * 13:30: Post-hike lunch in Monschau. We will find a cozy spot for Schnitzel, Monschau mustard soup, or hot cocoa. 🔙 RETURN: * 15:32: Take Bus 385 from Monschau Schmiede. * 15:58: Arrive at Eupen Bahnhof. * Transfer (19 min) * 16:17: Take IC Train (Direction Ostende) from Eupen. * 17:55: Arrive back at Brussels Central. 💶 Costs & Tickets * Organising Fee: €5 per person (paid via Payment Link). * Members: Voyager and Ambassador members are exempt from this fee. * Not a member yet? Check out our membership options here: https://www.sundayvacations.com/membership * Transport: Everyone is responsible for purchasing their own train and bus tickets. * Tip: Buy a return train ticket to Eupen. The bus ticket (Eupen <-> Monschau) can be bought on the bus or via the TEC app. 🎒 Equipment & Safety (Important!) Winter hiking requires specific preparation. * Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are mandatory. * Anti-Slip Gear: The path can be icy or slippery. We highly recommend bringing anti-slip spikes (crampons) for your shoes. You can find affordable ones at Decathlon. * Clothing: Dress in warm layers (thermal base, fleece, waterproof shell). Don't forget a hat and gloves. ⚠️ Disclaimer & Liability By signing up for this event, you understand and agree to the following: * Nature of Activity: Hiking involves inherent risks, including but not limited to slips, falls, and weather-related injuries. Winter conditions (ice, snow, mud) increase these risks. * Personal Responsibility: You are responsible for your own safety, equipment, and physical preparedness. The organizers are volunteers, not professional guides. * Liability: The organizers and the Meetup group accept no liability for any accidents, injuries, loss, or damage to personal property that may occur during the event. You participate entirely at your own risk. * Insurance: It is your responsibility to ensure you have adequate personal health and accident insurance valid in Germany. Ready for a winter adventure? RSVP now! By joining this event, you agree to the Sunday Vacations [Terms & Conditions](https://www.sundayvacations.com/terms), [Privacy Policy](https://www.sundayvacations.com/privacy) & [Code of Conduct](https://www.sundayvacations.com/code)

***FREE TOUR TICKET FOR ALL OF YOU WONDERFUL MEETUP MEMBERS*** Use Promo Code **MEETUP2025** to get your free ticket and route smart guide at [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sol-in-columbus-oh-a-smart-guided-short-one-way-loop-bikeway-tour-tickets-769120860197](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sol-in-columbus-oh-a-smart-guided-short-one-way-loop-bikeway-tour-tickets-769120860197) You can do the tour solo/with your favorite peeps, or try to generate a group ride of Meetup CycleNuts by RSVPing here and posting the day and time you are interested in others joining you. Either way, have fun on your memory-making adventure, and thank you for being a CycleNut! ### SOL in Columbus, OH \- A Smart\-guided Short One\-way Loop Bikeway Tour Short One-way Loop (SOL) in Columbus on bikeways. The smart-guided tour is mostly through scenic riverside parks with a quick downtown peek. All of that in 10 miles! 83% of the route is bikeway, and the rest is Google Maps designated "bicycle-friendly roads". This short ride passes through several beautiful riverside parks. Passing through downtown the route runs alongside Huntington Park baseball stadium, Nationwide Arena hockey stadium, near North Market (worth a stop if you enjoy markets with lots of tasty treats), within a few blocks of the state capitol, convention center, art museum, center of science and industry, several first-class hotels, and much more (see Points of Interest list below). Easily, anywhere along the way, the tour can be detoured to nearby points of interest. This smart-guided route comes with CycleNuts' 50% downhill guarantee. Sweating is optional. If your bike has gears, you might use them to climb in a few spots. All bikes are appropriate for this smart-guided tour (even a single-speed if you do not mind walking your bike up the spots mentioned). The route is shaded about 50% of the way. Sweating is optional - you set your pace, starting time, and touring agenda. Points of interest: COSI Scioto River North Market German Village The Scioto Mile Brewery District Huntington Park Nationwide Arena Columbus Union Station Arch Greater Columbus Convention Center **The Meetup plan = Show up, Rally with whoever else shows up, and Roll following the smart-guided instructions.** This is a smart guided tour route that can be ridden any day or time, solo or with others. It is only posted with a repeating set time and date with a tour leader to fit the Meetup format, and, more importantly, to encourage you to get out and ride when it is convenient for you. **If you are going to ride it and would like the company of others, then simply RSVP and post in the comments when it is that you are going to ride - date and time.** Take pictures/videos and share. Have fun! ***This is a repeating event on the calendar***\*, but the date and time do not necessarily need to be what is posted. **If you are interested in riding with a group, then simply RSVP and leave a message in the comment section** giving the date and time you would like others to join you. If you are interested in riding by yourself or with your private group of friends, then simply do it.\* ***The mission of this format is to create a catalog*** *of free group tour routes available for CycleNuts to ride as a group, or solo, in an area spanning several states. **The goal is to get people out cycling** either in groups or solo. **The vision is a cycling community with resources** available for bike tours, bike talk, and a format for lives experienced at the speed of bike.*

**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.

Younkin Branch Library (Ashville) meeting space is now reserved for any and all interested in or enthused by playing a game of chess. The second Thursday of each month, 6:00pm to 7:50pm. First gathering is Thursday, May 11th. No fees. Chess sets provided; however, you may bring your own if you wish.

CHANGED to WEDNESDAYS COLUMBUS RECREATION CENTERS require membership fee to play. Register & Pay at the desk when you arrive. $5 day pass is available. I have some extra pickle ball paddles and balls if you don’t have one. Definitely bring your own paddle if you have one and bring some balls if you have them. Legal Stuff: The event hosts/Organizers are just fellow member volunteers. By participating in any event, you assume all risks of liability and injury inherent in these activities. You are responsible for your own safety and for determining if you are in condition fit to participate. You are also responsible for knowing and abiding by all laws and rules during your participation in any event.
 Photos & or Video: by attending these events you acknowledge photos and or video may be taken and used on this and other platforms.