Outdoors

Join us for an unforgettable **week-long sailing voyage** from **Falmouth to the enchanting Isles of Scilly** and back. Experience the thrill of open-water sailing, the beauty of secluded anchorages, and the magic of island life — all in one incredible journey. **🗓 Duration:** 7 days **📍 Departure & Return:** Falmouth, Cornwall **🏝 Destination:** The Isles of Scilly Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or new to life at sea, this voyage offers something for everyone. You’ll learn hands-on sailing skills, explore crystal-clear waters, visit charming island communities, and relax on white sandy beaches. Evenings are spent enjoying meals in cosy island pubs under the glow of Atlantic sunsets. **Highlights include:** * Sailing across some of Britain’s most beautiful coastal waters * Exploring St Mary’s, Tresco, St Annes, Bryer. * Wildlife spotting and beach walks * RYA qualified skipper and first mate guiding you every step of the way * accommodation on board * marina fees, fuel and gas * breakfasts, lunches ad one evening meal on board Escape the ordinary and embrace the freedom of the sea — book your berth today and let the wind carry you to paradise! 👉 **Reserve your place now – limited spots available!** 📧 Contact Maggie 0771 2525368 or Chris 07751212976 or email maggiesmith77@hotmail.com for more information and to reserve your place. **We ask for a deposit of £100 to secure your place and the balance 28 days before the event.**

**BOOK HERE**: https://sportas.co.uk/games/46007 **Game Description:** Come and play in a Mid-Intermediate & Above volleyball session in Canada Water 😎 PLEASE ONLY sign up to this session if you’re a Mid-Intermediate player or above! We have the right to cancel & refund you if we don’t think you meet this ability. You will be notified of this. We need to maintain the quality of the games and rallies - this is nothing personal at all. **Directions:** 🚶‍♂️10 minute walk from Canada Water tube station The entrance is via a car park and in the blue building. Please ask reception for help if needed. **Rules** \- 3 teams of 6 \- Games up to 15 points \- Max 2 games in a row \- Be positive and encouraging to all players 🧡

**Workout with PRIDE (Functional Strength) at Marshall Street, just around the corner from Carnaby S**treet! 💪🌈 Join us for our weekly **WorkOUT With PRIDE** class, designed to boost your functional strength and improve your body’s ability to move efficiently as a whole. Our sessions focus on exercises that engage all planes of movement, incorporating both bodyweight and equipment-based resistance to build strength and coordination. This class is suitable for all fitness levels, so if you’re new, no worries! We’ll break down the big compound movements step by step, ensuring you feel confident before diving into the full workout. At *Workout with Pride*, our goal is for you to leave feeling accomplished, empowered, and more knowledgeable about your fitness journey. 💥 **Class Details:** * **Location:** Marshall St, London W1F 7EL**Time:** Please arrive by **6:30 pm** (changed and ready to go) * **What to Expect:** Full access to changing rooms and showers post-class. Don’t forget to bring a towel and some change for the lockers! When you arrive, just head to reception and let them know you’re there for **Workout with PRIDE**.

**PLEASE READ: Advanced booking is required via our website [https://www.silverfit.org.uk/nordic-walking-sessions](https://www.silverfit.org.uk/nordic-walking-sessions)/ we do not use Meet Up as a means for sign up. Please DO NOT just turn up to this session.** Activity: Nordic Walking at Docklands Where and when: Mondays 10am, Meet at Bellucci Cafe inside Decathlon - Canada Water (https://www.thelodge.cafe/[https://www.thelodge.cafe/](https://www.thelodge.cafe/)) Price: £3 when booking on TicketTailor Benefits of Nordic Walking: The fitness and health benefits of Nordic Walking are significantly greater than regular walking, trekking or even jogging, with scientific research from Europe and the USA proving that Nordic Walking: Activates 90% of the body's muscles Burns up to 46% more calories than regular walking Increases aerobic effect by up to 25% compared to regular walking Decreases load and strain on the lower body Tones upper arms, shoulders and back muscles Improves lateral mobility of the spine Develops core stability and strength Promotes an upright posture These benefits are achieved through the use of specially designed poles and a properly learned and performed Nordic Walking technique, whereby the poles are used as a resistance tool to engage the upper body. The result is a low impact, high results, total body exercise. As a low impact walking exercise, Nordic Walking is something that can be done and enjoyed individually or as a group activity, anywhere a person can normally walk. *** For more information about this session please email the Project Manager at - **info@silverfit.org.uk** Learn more about **Silverfit Charity** on our website [www.silverfit.org.uk](http://www.silverfit.org.uk/)

We're hosting our regular peer support group for lesbian, bisexual, pansexual, queer and questioning women. We look forward to welcoming you if you can make it. Our attendees are a diverse mix of women and are friendly, non-judgmental and inclusive of new people. During the session we talk over topics by sharing our own experience. We cover any topics our attendees would like to raise (we write them down anonymously at the start of the session) they might be things like "how do I find queer friends?" , "managing the holiday season with an unsupportive family", "coming out at work", "bi invisibility" , "internalised homophobia" , "lgbt book recommendations?", "any dating app recommendations?". The session is facilitated by volunteers from the charity London Friend. Our group meets on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month from 7pm to 9pm. We're aware it can sometimes be intimidating to join a group like this for the first time, so please reach out to our friendly volunteers if you'd like more information. We can be contacted via Meetup or by emailing changes@londonfriend.org.uk. If you'd like to join and listen without participating further that's ok too. MeetUp is one of the many platforms where people can find this event, and so the number of meetup RSVP's doesn't match the actual number of attendees. If you'd like to join without RSVPing on Meetup you can simply turn up 7pm at the London Friend location.

**BOOK HERE**: https://sportas.co.uk/games/45977 **Game Description:** Friendly football sessions at Flanders Field 3 teams of 7 MUGA or Grass Mixed abilities - all are welcome! Free car parking by the Bobby Moore Sports Pavilion Organiser: Ethan - 07462567110 **Rules** \- Astro turf boots or trainers \- No one inside box except goalkeeper \- Must make 1 pass after receiving from keeper to be able to pass back to keeper \- Goalkeeper can’t come out of box \- Be respectful \- Have fun

Have you ever wanted to be immersed within either the city or nature in the form of a walk and socialise at the same time? If so, this may be the right walk for you. Welcome to another one of the WALK events where you have the opportunity to explore all the scenic routes I’ll execute whether there’s nature within, whether we get immersed within the city and feel great about yourself. 

With this particular walk, we will be walking through Regents park, pit stopping on Primrose Hill for the scenery and then finishing off in Camden Town. A mixture of traversing through nature, embracing the skyline view, possibly embracing the street markets and finishing off at an Irish pub to relax or party. My fellow explorers, if you enjoyed the event, I’m more than happy to accept any donations which of course are optional but will go a long way to help me unlock and deliver even more exciting and engaging events and resources: https://www.paypal.me/calvinjoy 

Starting point: Baker Street
Ending point: Camden Town
Walking length: 2.4 miles
Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes +
Required clothing: Smart casual, comfortable shoes and a jacket in case it gets cold
Departure: 20 minutes after the meeting time. 

WHAT - Walk from Baker Street to Camden
WHERE - Baker Street/Camden
WHEN - 7:30pm - 11pm
MEETING POINT - Outside Baker Street station near the Sherlock Holmes statue
NEAREST STATION - Baker Street Station
REQUIREMENTS - Just your good behaviour is all and whatever is listed above for the walk. If you are coming to the Irish pub, please bring ID.

 Disclaimers: Please be on your best behaviour and respect one another. This group doesn’t tolerate any misbehaviour and misconduct. Should such a thing take place, you will be removed. If you ask a question that either already has the answer to it or doesn’t relate to the event at all, I won’t respond. Whenever an event takes place, I will cut off contact 20 minutes after the event commences. If you message even 1 minute after the cut off time, I won’t be available as I’m conducting the event. There will be photography and videography by myself so if you are photo conscious and/or do not want to be in the video, do kindly inform me and I’ll try my utmost best to not involve you in the picture. Let’s all be responsible but please be aware you come at your own risk. Do be mindful of your possessions, belongings and most importantly, your safety. The ‘London society of explorers’ accept no risk of liability at this event.

Have you ever wanted to partake in hikes where you get exposed to new areas with luscious forms of nature, some amazing views and possibly some hidden gems? If so, this may be the right event for you. Welcome to another Hiking event where all of this is possible. This is the opportunity to form friendships, discover a different perspective of London, improve your fitness, embrace nature but also feel great about yourself. With this particular Hike, we’ll be hiking from Wimbledon park to Richmond. We’ll be traversing through many parks, forests and nature pathways but also make new discoveries too. This is also part of the capital ring which is a 78 mile pathway split into 15 hiking routes. This is section 6. If you want to be part of the journey, feel free to join us. My fellow explorers, if you enjoyed the event, I’m more than happy to accept any donations which of course are optional but will go a long way to help me unlock and deliver even more exciting and engaging events and resources: https://www.paypal.me/calvinjoy Starting point: Wimbledon Park station Ending point: Richmond Walking length: 11.5km Duration: 4 hours at most Required clothing: Smart casual, comfortable shoes and a jacket in case it gets cold
Departure: 20 minutes after the meeting time. WHAT - Hike WHERE - Wimbledon Park to Richmond WHEN - 2pm - 6:30pm MEETING POINT - Outside Wimbledon Park Station NEAREST STATION - Wimbledon Park Station REQUIREMENTS - Just your good behaviour is all and whatever is listed above for the walk. Disclaimers: Please be on your best behaviour and respect one another. This group doesn’t tolerate any misbehaviour and misconduct. Should such a thing take place, you will be removed. If you ask a question that either already has the answer to it or doesn’t relate to the event at all, I won’t respond. Whenever an event takes place, I will cut off contact 20 minutes after the event commences. If you message even 1 minute after the cut off time, I won’t be available as I’m conducting the event. There will be photography and videography by myself so if you are photo conscious and/or do not want to be in the video, do kindly inform me and I’ll try my utmost best to not involve you in the picture. Let’s all be responsible but please be aware you come at your own risk. Do be mindful of your possessions, belongings and most importantly, your safety. The ‘London society of explorers’ accept no risk of liability at this event.

HI EVERYONE, COST AND INFO BELOW, Please note approx 20-25 members will be on the walk, not what is advertised, as only half the members turn up with most meetup groups. Hi all, cost £5, join everyone for a beautiful 3-mile daytime circular walk. Queen Mary's Garden is a world-famous garden named after the wife of King George V. In 1932 when Queen Mary's Gardens opened to the general public, the first superintendent planted a rose garden which was completed in 1934. The rose garden is London's largest collection of roses with approximately 12,000 roses planted within the gardens. There are 85 single variety beds on display, including one which is home to our very own 'Royal Parks' rose. Examples of most rose varieties, from the classics to the most modern English roses, are present in the gardens. Roses are not the only treasure of the gardens. The Delphinium border has full National Collection status. The Mediterranean Borders are well established, and the Begonia Garden, with its 9,000 begonias, is twice-yearly planted with seasonal bedding. Shrubberies are strategically designed and located to add a sense of mystery and privacy to the gardens. The rich sights and scents of these marvellous plants play such an important part in the delightful experience of visiting Queen Mary's Gardens. Benches are available for visitors to sit and enjoy the garden. To see the best blooms in the first two weeks of June. Please meet outside the front of Baker Street Station by the Sherlock Holmes Statue. We will be stopping for a 30 mins break halfway through the walk at a cafe to meet new friends, use the facilities if required and refreshments. £5 cash/card payment by simply turning up on the day! TERMS AND CONDITIONS PLEASE ensure ARRIVAL at least 15 minutes BEFORE the start of the walk, sorry no latecomers are accepted for whatever reason. Members attend the unique walks from our different meetup groups. IF LATE, SORRY WE ARE UNABLE TO RECEIVE CALLS OR ANSWER EMAILS AS WELCOMING MEMBERS, LEADING THE WALK, AND CONCENTRATING ON THE SAFETY OF THE GROUP. PLEASE DO NOT BE LATE, YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO CATCH THE GROUP UP, PLEASE ARRIVE EARLY TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT. Part Tour - Medium pace walk from 'Visit England' Award-Winning Guide and our group featured in the National Press! Please Note: Some events, being a large attended meetup group will be an organised walk only, but members are very welcome to organise their own get-togethers after the event. You are required to be fit and healthy with appropriate footwear & clothing, responsible for meeting at the correct location, own safety and to not lose the group by viewing the organiser/making the organiser aware as much as possible, or follow/not lose sight of the person(s) from the same walk in front. We advise carrying water and some snacks. The organiser is also not responsible for any circumstances that may affect the group or personally such as personal accidents, rail information, engineering works, cancellations, rail strikes or delays, heavy traffic, tours affected, weather, walk paths or routes closed, postcodes for car parks or for when we arrive back at the station, or anything else not mentioned! By joining the event you agree to all the terms and conditions. No Dogs allowed sorry We really look forward to welcoming you on the walks/tours for a wonderful, great, fun day!

Great news Balancers! On Sunday 14th June, we're launching our Yoga Social. **What better way to leave the week behind you and reset for the week ahead than spending an afternoon outdoors, moving your body and meeting new people?** We'll start with a relaxing yoga session in Regent's Park, guided by Amy ([https://www.instagram.com/amychilveryoga/](https://www.instagram.com/amychilveryoga/)), a yoga instructor with over 1,080 hours of training. She's been incredibly kind and enthusiastic about supporting this new experience, and we're excited to have her leading the session. 🕑 Yoga Session: 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM 🕑3:00 PM Park Social Begins 🌳 Regent's Park 🧘 Bring a yoga mat if you have one. If not, a blanket or towel will work perfectly too. **We kindly ask everyone to arrive a few minutes early so we can start together and make the most of the session.** No experience is needed. Whether it's your first class or your hundredth, everyone is welcome. After the yoga session, you're welcome to join our free Park Social, where we'll be hanging out with games, conversations, and good company throughout the afternoon. If you'd like to learn more about the Park Social, check it out here: [https://www.meetup.com/balancers/events/314899072/](https://www.meetup.com/balancers/events/314899072/) **Move your body. Meet your people.** *To keep things accessible, we'll be releasing a number of free spots alongside a limited number of low cost tickets.* 📍**Exact meeting point**: [https://goo.gl/maps/r2Beg5CeY4vnD8119](https://goo.gl/maps/r2Beg5CeY4vnD8119) 🚻 Toilets? 5-min walk away. Easy. 📲 **Join our WhatsApp group** for updates: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/IJKXDkwUTlmDsYTOCIUg7O](https://chat.whatsapp.com/IJKXDkwUTlmDsYTOCIUg7O) See you in the park ❤️ Stay Bright, Stay Balanced

Have you ever wanted to be immersed within either the city or nature in the form of a walk and socialise at the same time? If so, this may be the right walk for you. Welcome to another one of the WALK events where you have the opportunity to explore all the scenic routes I’ll execute whether there’s nature within, whether we get immersed within the city and feel great about yourself. 

With this particular walk, we will be walking through Finsbury Park. Finsbury Park is another beautiful park that offers some beautiful sceneries of nature, the lake, some historical monuments and much more. 

After this walk, if all goes well, we can do an aftermath and let democracy decide. My fellow explorers, if you enjoyed the event, I’m more than happy to accept any donations which of course are optional but will go a long way to help me unlock and deliver even more exciting and engaging events and resources: https://www.paypal.me/calvinjoy 

Starting point: Finsbury Park Station
Ending point: Finsbury Park Station
Walking length: 2 miles
Duration: 1 hour +
Required clothing: Smart casual, comfortable shoes and a jacket in case it gets cold
Departure: 20 minutes after the meeting time. 

WHAT - Walk through Finsbury Park
WHERE - Finsbury Park
WHEN - 7pm - 9pm
MEETING POINT - Outside Finsbury Park Station
NEAREST STATION - Finsbury Park Station
REQUIREMENTS - Just your good behaviour is all and whatever is listed above for the walk. Disclaimers: Please be on your best behaviour and respect one another. This group doesn’t tolerate any misbehaviour and misconduct. Should such a thing take place, you will be removed. If you ask a question that either already has the answer to it or doesn’t relate to the event at all, I won’t respond. Whenever an event takes place, I will cut off contact 20 minutes after the event commences. If you message even 1 minute after the cut off time, I won’t be available as I’m conducting the event. There will be photography and videography by myself so if you are photo conscious and/or do not want to be in the video, do kindly inform me and I’ll try my utmost best to not involve you in the picture. Let’s all be responsible but please be aware you come at your own risk. Do be mindful of your possessions, belongings and most importantly, your safety. The ‘London society of explorers’ accept no risk of liability at this event.

**🌳 Large Group Social Hike** One of our **bigger, more sociable** hikes. Prefer a smaller group? See our standard-size hikes. 📏 **Key Info:** • Distance: 11 miles (18km) • Grading: [Intermediate](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/HikeGradings.pdf) but with tough hills • Ascent: 442m • Hiking time: 4.5 to 5.5 hours • Cost: £34 (includes guided hike + return train) • Refunds: Payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. If you follow our [[Resale Process](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf)] and your place is rebooked, we’ll issue a refund. • Toilet Breaks: On the train, 1 hour after the lunch stop, and at the end pub 📍 **Meeting Point** • Location: Victoria station. Meet between WHSmith (no 34) and Nero Express (no 29) - [MAP](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/Victoria.jpg) & [PHOTO](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/VictoriaPhoto.jpg) • Time: Meet 8:20am, leave 8:40am for the 8:54am train • Return: 8:36pm arrival back in London (you’re committed until then) 🌟 **Highlights** • Explore **Hastings**, home to Europe’s largest beach-launched fishing fleet and historic net huts • Follow the scenic **Saxon Shore Way** along one of the South East’s most dramatic coastlines • Enjoy **panoramic cliff-top views**, with France visible across the Channel on a clear day • Visit **Winchelsea**, a medieval port town once on the coast before the sea receded • Discover the cliffs’ **Site of Special Scientific Interest**, where dinosaur fossils and crocodile remains have been found • End in **Winchelsea — an enchanting medieval town** 🥾 **Hike Description** Our hike begins in **Hastings**, best known as the site of the famous 1066 battle where William the Conqueror defeated King Harold. Today, Hastings is a lively coastal town and home to **Europe’s largest beach-launched fishing fleet**, a sight made even more distinctive by the tall black wooden fishing net huts that line the seafront. From here we join the **Saxon Shore Way**, a historic coastal route named after the Roman forts that once guarded England’s shores. The path climbs onto dramatic sandstone cliffs that have been designated a **Site of Special Scientific Interest** for both their geological and biological importance. As we traverse the cliff tops, the sea views are spectacular, with France sometimes visible across the Channel. Along the way, we’ll learn how the cliffs have revealed dinosaur fossils and even crocodile bones from the Early Cretaceous Period, over 140 million years ago. The route then leads us inland to **Winchelsea**, a medieval port town founded in the 13th century. Once a thriving harbour, the sea has since retreated, leaving Winchelsea perched inland but still rich in history, with ancient walls, medieval cellars and atmospheric streets to explore. We finish in **Winchelsea**, an ancient medieval town, known for its historic grid layout and peaceful streets full of character. After the hike we’ll head to the pub for a well-earned drink before returning to London by train. TOUGHNESS, PACE - this hike has some big and tough hills, also it's done at a good pace as timings are tight, please only sign up if you are happy with this. 🧭 **Guide:** • Leader: [GRAHAM](https://www.outdooraholics.co.uk/MeetTheOutdooraholics.pdf) • Contact (hike day only): 07796 098487 🍽️ **Food:** • Bring a packed lunch • Pub visit after the hike (drinks optional) 🎒**What to Bring** • Hiking boots/shoes • Water (2 litres minimum) • Packed lunch • Waterproofs (jacket and trousers) • Hat and gloves if cold • Train tickets are arranged – just meet us at the meeting point ⚠️ **Safety** Your guide is a trained hike leader and Outdoor Activity First Aider ❓ **Want to Know More?** • [New to Our Trips?](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/new_to_our_day_hikes.pdf) (perfect for first-timers, answers “what to expect”) • [About Us](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/about_us.pdf) (who Outdooraholics are, credibility, history) • [FAQs](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf) (covers common queries) 📲 **Explore More &** **Stay Connected** [Day hikes list](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/hikesbygrade.pdf) 👣 [Calendar - All trips](https://www.meetup.com/outdooraholics/events/calendar/) 📖 [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/outdooraholics/) 📸 [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/Outdooraholics) & [Photos group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/Outdooraholics) 📄 **Terms and Conditions** By signing up or attending you agree to our [Terms and Conditions](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/TermsConditionsOutdooraholicsHikingUK.pdf) © Outdooraholics Hiking UK Ltd 2026 E & OE

This beautiful coastal hike takes us from the historic city of Chichester out to the wide open shoreline of West Wittering, combining peaceful canal paths, estuary views, and a stunning stretch of sandy beach. Starting from Chichester, we follow the scenic Chichester Ship Canal before reaching the estuary at Birdham. The route then traces the coastline along the Chichester Harbour, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty known for its wildlife, sailing waters, and expansive views. Heading south, we reach the striking sand dunes of East Head, with far reaching views across to Hayling Island and the Isle of Wight. A relaxing walk along West Wittering beach brings us inland through quiet lanes and picturesque villages before finishing in West Wittering. We then take a short bus ride back to Chichester, where there is time for a well earned drink or meal before heading back to London. 🕓 Schedule & Meeting Info **MEETING TIME:** 08:30 London Victoria Station next to the information booth near platform 12 07968585224 **TRAINS:** 09:05 from London Victoria (direct) Arrives Chichester 10:37 **TICKETS:** (not included) Return to Chichester and Bus from West Wittering to Chichester (contactless) **HIKE START:** 10:40 Chichester Station **LUNCH:** Pack Lunch. **HIKE FINISH:** Approx. 17:00 – Chichester **RETURN TRAINS:** Regular services from Chichester to London Victoria 📏 Hike Details **DISTANCE:** 10.5 miles (17 km) **ASCENT:** 270 m **TERRAIN:** Flat riverside paths, coastal trails, sandy beach, and country lanes **GRADE:** Beginner 🎒 What to Bring ✅ Hiking boots or sturdy shoes ✅ Waterproof jacket & layers for changing weather ✅ Packed lunch, snacks & water ✅ Train ticket / Contactless / Travelcard London hiking group, coastal walk from London, Chichester to West Wittering walk, West Sussex hiking, beach walks UK, Chichester Harbour walk, East Head sand dunes, seaside hikes from London, beginner hikes UK, guided hikes London, group hiking UK, countryside day trips from London #golondonhiking 📱 WhatsApp: 07968585224 📩 Mailing List: [Go London](https://www.golondonhiking.co.uk/contact) 🌐 Website: [www.golondonhiking.co.uk](https://www.golondonhiking.co.uk) 🎟️ Eventbrite Page: [GO London Events](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/go-london-hiking-17576718759) 📸 Instagram: [@golondonhiking](https://www.instagram.com/golondonhiking/) 👍 Facebook Page: [Go London Adventure](https://www.facebook.com/GoLondonAdventure/) 👥 Facebook Group: [Go London Hiking](https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoLondonHiking/) 📜 Terms & Conditions By signing up, you agree to our full T&Cs including our cancellation and refund policy. View T&Cs.

**History** [Chestnut Ridge Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/chestnut-ridge/) is historically significant because it sits on a 300-million-year-old outcropping of Blackhand sandstone. Geographically recognized as the very first foothill of the Appalachian Mountains, the ridge rises 1,116 feet above sea level. Long before European settlement, the land served as a sacred site for ancient civilizations. The park contains the Old Maid's Orchard Mound, an eight-foot-tall burial mound constructed by the Adena culture between 1000 B.C. and 100 B.C. This ancient landmark has remained largely intact and is now protected on the National Register of Historic Places. The documented modern history of the land began with an official survey conducted by Ebenezer Buckingham in 1801. Original land deeds of sale from this period notably bear the signatures of United States Presidents Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. In the 1830s, Irish laborers arrived at the ridge to quarry its rich Blackhand sandstone. The blocks they hewed were used to build the crucial locks for the nearby Ohio and Erie Canal. Remnants of this early sandstone quarrying operation can still be spotted by sharp-eyed hikers along the modern trails. Agricultural transformation defined the ridge throughout the mid-to-late 19th century. Settlers discovered that the high elevation created a natural air flow that prevented late-season frost damage to crops. Extensive fruit orchards were planted across the slopes between 1860 and 1880. One notable orchard was established by John Wagner, a Spanish-American War veteran who chose the ridge specifically for its proximity to the bustling Columbus market. The park's current name pays homage to the massive American chestnut trees that once dominated the ridgeline before a devastating ecological blight wiped them out in the early 20th century. The conservation story of the modern 486-acre park began in March 1962. The Metro Parks board announced land acquisition plans to block developers from building a residential housing development called Chestnut Heights. Director-Secretary Walter A. Tucker advocated heavily for the purchase, citing the ridge's immense value as a scenic overlook for central Ohio. The district systematically purchased multiple agricultural parcels over the next two decades. After operating strictly as undeveloped farmland through the 1970s, Chestnut Ridge Metro Park officially opened to the public on December 18, 1988. In recent decades, the park has evolved from a quiet hiking spot into a premier regional destination for outdoor sports. A major turning point occurred in 2010 when the Central Ohio Mountain Biking Organization (COMBO) partnered with the park district to develop new infrastructure. Volunteers worked extensively to construct a single-track mountain bike trail, which officially opened in October 2011. An expert gravity and flow trail featuring advanced jumps was later integrated into the loop in 2016. Today, the park successfully balances its deep ancient, industrial, and agricultural history with active recreation. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Chestnut Ridge](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/CHR_map_1980px_2026.jpg). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Ridge, Meadows, and Homesite Trails, and Law's Lane, which is unmarked on some maps. None of these trails is individually very long, so we will hike a few permutations and loops until we get in 4-5 miles. The hike will be moderately strenuous. **Where We'll Meet** Drive to the rearmost picnic area at the back of the park. There's a latrine here, but there's no water fountain here or anywhere else at Chestnut Ridge. I strongly recommend you bring some water of your own, at least for after the hike. Cell service at the park is spotty, although your GPS will get you there just fine. The map pin I've provided here is exactly where we'll be meeting and should be able to be used directly in Google Maps, although Chestnut Ridge isn't big and you're unlikely to get lost here. **After the Hike** Afterward, we'll head over to [BrewDog DogTap](https://drink.brewdog.com/usa/brewdog-dogtap-columbus) for [drinks](https://usa.brewdog.com/pages/brewdog-lineup) and [food](https://usa.brewdog.com/cdn/shop/files/DogTap_Menu_2025_65e1ff8b-97d4-4f26-80f1-68321d482025.pdf?v=17356939232910340498). They also have an outdoor area that's extremely popular. I've had their burgers and their pizza, and I think they're both very good. I also really like their [Cold Beer](https://usa.brewdog.com/products/cold-beer-2024) (that's its actual name), which is their American light lager. BrewDog's actual address is [96 Gender Rd, Canal Winchester, OH 43110](https://www.google.com/maps/place/96+Gender+Rd,+Canal+Winchester,+OH+43110/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88387c06afa21a85:0x804c611d373d8c54?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and they have a large, free parking lot. We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.

Join us for a full three mile hike this Thursday (6/11) at 6:30 pm at Sharon Woods Metro Park. This scenic hike includes dirt trails (with hills) through the woods, grass trails through the meadows and paved trails along the pond. Please be able to hike at least at a moderate pace so that the group doesn’t have to wait for you often. We don’t want to lose you!