Hiking

EVENING WALK - BARNET WHITINGS HILL CIRCULAR – A 4.5 mile walk from Barnet, following the Dollis Valley to Whitings Hill open space and back again. Option to stop for a drink afterwards. Walk leader: Leon Meet from 6:15pm for a prompt 6.30pm start outside Barnet Everyman, Great North Road, Barnet EN5 1AB

Whether you're trying to tick a famous peak off your bucket list or are just starting on your climbing adventures, the 4,167-meter summit of Mount Toubkal is the ideal journey for everyone. Trekking through the breathtaking Atlas Mountains, you will discover the ethereal, alpine village of Sidi Chamharouch, the charming town of Imlil, which is tucked away in a verdant valley at the base of Mount Toubkal and even have a chance to see the vibrant city of Marrakesh. This thrilling adventure is not just about conquering the highest peak in North Africa; it's about pushing your limits for a purpose greater than yourself. Not only will you have life-long memories and unique experiences, but you will also have made a significant difference in the lives of hundreds of needy individuals. ***NOTE: This is a fundraising activity, with a target of £750, to help disadvantaged children around the world. (More details on the registration page.)*** #### Itinerary (April 2026) **20th:** Arrival in Marrakech. Transfer to Imlil **21st**: Trek from Imlil to Refuge at base of Toubkal **22nd:** Climb Toubkal, descend, trek back to Imlil **23rd:** Transfer from Imlil to Marrakech **REGISTER here**: https://register.enthuse.com/ps/event/MountToubkal **Registration Fee:** £400 **What's Included?** Accommodation, Transfers in Marrakech, Professional Guides & a Finisher Medal **What is Not Included?** International Flights & Travel Insurance **Fundraising Target:** £750

Dear all, this is an interesting walk with plenty to see, and well worth doing. We will meet at 10.45 am at Grove Park Station, and then walk from there to the Ringway Centre as image above. {You can get to Grove Park Station by train from Cannon Street, Charing Cross, London Bridge and Waterloo East.} My friend is making a dairy and gluten free cake and with a hot drink will charge only £3. After our hot drink and cake we will make our way to Chinbrook Meadows, then through woodland in Elmstead Woods. Our walk will then take us past 2 railway stations, Elmstead Woods, then Chislehurst, along more woodland and river trails and across three railway bridges until we reach Petts Wood, where our walk will end. Walking distance 6 miles. Lunch will be at The Sovereign of The Seas, a Wetherspoons pub, or you can bring our own. From Petts Wood Station you can get trains to Charing Cross,Waterloo East, London Bridge & Victoria stations. Please note: £7 Meetup fee required - please have the right change. In view of some upward slopes and the many steps at the railway bridges, if you have a knee problem or walk slowly, this walk may not be for you. If you need any more information, please ring or text Paul on 07530 675739 – note, this is not a smart phone. [https://www.alittlecup.com/cafe](https://www.alittlecup.com/cafe)

Vandome Cycles are providing drop in bike check/repair sessions: • Barking Riverside Bike Hub IG11 0FJ: Opening Times: Every Mon & Thu 3pm-7pm and Sat: 9am-5pm • The Fiddlers, Dagenham, RM8 3HH: Every Saturday 10am – 2pm

**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/)

**BOOK HERE**: https://sportas.co.uk/games/45970 **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

Edward II was born this day in 1284. Roger Mortimer was born this day in 1287. Not only did King Edward & Mortimer share the same birthday, both their fates lay with "*the beauty of beauties...in the kingdom if not in all Europe*" - Isabella of France. While Isabella acted out her role as dutiful wife to Edward at King's Langley, he proffered the nearby castle at Berkhamsted to his preferred favourite, Piers Gaveston. From those impressive castle ruins, this walk heads into the Ashridge woods, which house among the most romantic expanses of bluebells. Then the Grand Union canal takes us to King's Langley, historic seat of the Plantagenets. Travelling in France, Isabella found solace in Mortimer. After she returned with Mortimer triumphant, and Edward found himself duly deposed, the castle from where we start became home for her son John of Eltham. Outward Travel: Take the train departing 9.54 AM from London Euston to BERKHAMSTED. With Groupsave or Network Card an off peak day single is £7.30. Return from KING'S LANGLEY to London is £5.75. So total return £13.05 with Groupsave or Network card. Those wanting a shorter walk can finish at earlier stations Hemel Hempstead or Apsley. Beforehand from 9.30 AM the organizer will be easy to spot near the ticket office in the station wearing yellow to act as a focal point for people arranging group tickets. Walk start: 10.30 AM from Berkhamsted rail station. Bring a packed lunch. Cafe stop. Pub stop for drinks. *How to join?* * The walk is entirely free of charge; * You only arrange for your own travel and pub expenses; * Understand our terms and conditions below (the "IMPORTANT" part); * Understand how to stay safe outdoors, as you will be responsible for yourself. See our quick safety tips: http://www.meetup.com/Free-Outdoor-Trips-From-London/about/ *What to bring* * Plenty of water, 1-2 litres recommended * Enough snacks and packed lunch to keep you energized along the walk * Extra snacks and an extra packed lunch just in case * Rainproof (ideally waterproof) clothing, sturdy shoes/boots you don't mind getting muddy Feel free to ask any questions in the comments section! IMPORTANT Please bear in mind this is a free of charge, self-guided trip with a hobby group. It is not organized by a business nor any entity with commercial purposes. Any trip details, travel advice, route planning, instructions and other content in our group merely represent our shared personal knowledge, research and suggestions as outdoor enthusiasts. As this is no business, there is no "product", "service" or "package" and also no "tour guide", "operator" or "walk leader". Each participant is responsible for their own safety. Even if some of us are very experienced walking outdoors, nobody assumes responsibility for any kind of injury, damage or loss that may happen. Despite this, we take extreme precautions and all trips we plan are very safe, fun, highly educational and popular. Our experienced members volunteer their time and effort to shape a pleasant and quality adventure for everyone :-) By participating you acknowledge and agree with this disclaimer. Here are our tips on staying safe during outdoor trips: http://www.meetup.com/Free-Outdoor-Trips-From-London/about/ TRAVEL, ACCOMMODATION, INSURANCE Although we provide detailed suggestions, each participant is expected to arrange their own travel - this gives everyone the freedom and choice. Anyone interested in travel or outdoor insurance should also arrange this on their own. As mentioned above we always take extreme precautions, but some people may still feel safer if covered. As most of our trips are confirmed or postponed very close to the event date - heavily depending on the weather forecasts - we advise not to buy this until the last minute. People getting tickets from the same station are encouraged to meet early on the day to benefit from discounts such as GroupSave.

✨ Isabella Plantation – Spring in Full Bloom ✨ 🌸 Spring bloom at its absolute peak in Isabella Plantation 🌿 A relaxed, beautiful walk through colour, calm & hidden pathways 📍 Meet: Outside Richmond Station (District Line & Mainline) 🕐 Time: 1:00pm 🌿 Distance: Gentle, relaxed wander (approx. 4–5 miles) 🌿 We’ll begin by strolling through the charming streets of Richmond, before gently making our way up Richmond Hill — one of London’s most iconic viewpoints — pausing to take in the beautiful, protected views over the Thames 🌿 From there, we drift into the open landscapes of Richmond Park — ancient trees, wide skies, and perhaps even a glimpse of the deer — before arriving at one of London’s most magical hidden gardens… 🌸 the stunning Isabella Plantation 🌸 At this fleeting moment in the season, the plantation is at its most spectacular: ✨ vibrant azaleas in full bloom ✨ rich rhododendrons bursting with colour ✨ winding pathways, quiet ponds & soft reflections ✨ a peaceful, almost dreamlike atmosphere 🌸 Spring Special: £3 (usually £5) A seasonal offering to celebrate this beautiful time of year 🌿 ☕ Optional stop for refreshments after 👟 Suitable footwear recommended 🌦 Walk goes ahead in light rain ✨ A chance to slow down, breathe, and step into something quietly beautiful 🌿 Come and walk on the wild side Contact - Mairead - 07816 866300

The famous Seven Sisters ! 13 miles long with at least 7 major hills and one of the best coastal walks in southern England with fabulous views ! Only attempt this walk if you are fine with dealing with so many difficult hills taking into account also the length of the walk ! Let's go with the flow ! Group return train tickets shall be purchased as from 8.50am for the train at 9.24am that arrives at Seaford at 10.48am after changing trains at Lewes. Train ticket : Seaford return Or you may decide to drive. At Seaford we shall go to the public toilets a few minutes away from the train station. Please bring packed lunch, water, snacks etc plus waterproof jacket and wear boots, walking shoes or trainers. MEETUP FEE SPECIAL OFFER £5 ! Meetup fee : normally £8 payable in cash or £6 by Friday in advance by bank transfer, details supplied by private message. The walk shall commence by 11.30am after we stop off for public toilets NEAR Seaford train station. We shall have a drink at the end of the walk in Eastbourne and perhaps fish and chips too. At Eastbourne train station a small supplementary fare shall need be purchased in respect of the first part of the return journey to Lewes which was not covered by the return train ticket purchased in the morning. You should be able to walk 2.5 miles per hour and have adequate and appropriate insurance for this type of activity. Please only post photos of others with their consent. My no 07714250849.

⛰️ Another slice of the Kent countryside, this time from Sevenoaks towards the hills, including Bayley's Hill, Yorks Hill, Toys Hill and passing Chartwell house *(🌱 wild garlic picking season special)* 🔴 **HIKE:** 📏29km (18 miles) 🏔️ Elev. Gain: 775m 💓 Av. Pace: 5.2 km/h 🚥 [View Walking/Hiking Levels Here](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPRjEOPjW8B/) ✊ *Note: Active Muslims is equally about focusing on the actual activity, in this case, it is a paced walk/hike (and not a stroll), therefore it is advised to approach and attend these events with that mindset, intention and [purpose](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DBhPWpdIMKq/?igsh=MWVjdnZrdGZwd3dmYw%3D%3D).* 🔄 Starts/Ends: **Sevenoaks Station / Charing Cross** 📍 **Charing Cross Station** (near departure board) ⌚Meet from 9:15am, our train departs at **9:34am** *[arrives at 10:19. Return train estimate 6:17pm]* 🚉🚗 All regular walks/hikes are free and you are welcome to purchase your own ticket/make your way to the destination station. It is best to purchase tickets on the day as an open return ideally with a Network Rail card or with a group discount. ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ 🎟️ **If you would like me to help purchase your group ticket** (3+ must travel together). **On the condition you aim to arrive before the platform is announced (for physical tickets).** 💳 TBC (\~£12 with discount) *PLEASE MAKE SURE NO FEE IS CHARGED (Send as Friends & Family / otherwise ask for bank details).* ⏳ Deadline: TBC **Confirm via below once you've made the payment with your Meetup Name:** 📱 [My WhatsApp](https://wa.me/+447799438148). *ℹ️ I cannot issue refunds once I've purchased your ticket. May include online booking fee* ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ 🚻 Charing cross, Sevenoaks (possible cafe) ☕ *If the pace is very good, we may even visit Emmetts garden tea room for a cuppa!* 🧎 Prayer: If you are praying, please have/keep wudu (make it within other breaks) and be prepared to join at short notice. 🎒 What to bring: appropriate clothing/shoes, packed lunch, water bottle (1.5-2L) & snacks to keep you going. 👕 Advisable to have layers. 🥾 Hiking boots recommended. 🧦 Hiking socks/double socks advised (reduces chance of blisters) 🔦 Headlight (winter) 📱 Fully charged mobile + portable charger 🔔 Emergency Whistle 🗂️ "No shows" for previous events may be moved to the waitlist to prioritise reliable attendees / new joiners - ***when there is a waiting list, priority is given by attendance records / new joiners.*** 📊 [[why it matters](https://tinyurl.com/28sh83cn)] ⛑️ *Disclaimer: You are solely responsible for your own safety on these events and have the fitness level required for it. That you do not require special attention, medication or additional care. You are also responsible for your belonging at all times.* 🌐 **[@Active.Muslims](https://www.instagram.com/active.muslims)** *(Follow for latest events updates)* 🚦 **[Walk/Hike Levels:](https://www.instagram.com/share/reel/BBxV4zomeZ)** 🟢 Easy 🟡 Average 🟠 Moderate 🔴 Challenging ⚫ Very Challenging

Join us for a CIRCULAR AFTERNOON WALK (Approx. 5 miles) from Wimbledon Station, through Wimbledon Village and green spaces of Wimbledon Commons and Cannizarro Park. **WALK START: Wimbledon Station** (District Line and National Rail.) When you arrive at the station look for Ken with the 'KEN'S EVENTS/Meetup Badge/Sign. WALK DISTANCE: Approx 5 miles WALK FINISH: Wimbledon Station (District Line and National Rail.) STOP OUT POINT: Some buses are available close to part of the route. More info: Get out, explore and enjoy London's abundant green spaces and surprising surrounding countryside. Give up the city streets for a day and breathe some fresh air. Improve your overall fitness levels and make some new friends at the same time. **Social Event**: Our walks are social walks, where the emphasis is on meeting new people, enjoying nature, healthy exercise, and fresh air. Our walks are not interrupted with running commentaries or historical lectures, although occasionally features of significance may be pointed out. As such our walks will be continuous with few stops and it is your responsibilty to keep walkers ahead in view and to follow the direction of the walk. We always end the walk at a pub where the socialising can continue. Take this opportunity to visit green parts of London, unknown to most people, and that you would not otherwise have an opportunity to see. FEE: There is a £5 fee for this walking event for those members and guests not holding the Ken's Events Membership card. RAIN POLICY: What about the weather? Light rain or occasional showers is not a problem and the walk will proceed. Only book a walk if you are sure you can attend! Walks will only be cancelled if there is very heavy rain! RISKS: In these walks we use; country stiles,pavements, cross busy roads, public parkland, paths alongside water, bridlepaths, country lanes and other established paths and tracks through woodland, bush and countryside. Wear good sturdy shoes/walking boots. Take care as surfaces may be uneven, there may be low branches and some paths are also used by joggers and cyclists and sometimes cars (country lanes). Some tracks may be muddy and slippery. On occasion we may encounter wild and farm animals. If you require insurance for these walks you must arrange this yourself. No large dogs or small children please. Please arrive in good time to allow opportunity to use toilets at the start of the walk as there may not be any toilet breaks available during the walk. WANT TO COME ON ANOTHER WALK? For a list of future walks go to[ http://www.meetup.com/KENS-EVENTS-EXPLORE-LONDON-SECRETS/events/](https://www.meetup.com/KENS-EVENTS-EXPLORE-LONDON-SECRETS/events/) DISCLAIMER:All Events on Ken's Events are subject to a disclaimer. Please click here [(http://www.meetup.com/EXPLORE-LONDON-SECRETS/pages/Explore_London_Secrets_Disclaimer/) ](https://www.meetup.com/KENS-EVENTS-EXPLORE-LONDON-SECRETS/pages/14591782/KEN'S_EVENTS_DISCLAIMER/)to view disclaimer. Please post no pre-event messages unless you are posting something relevant for the whole group. Kens Events also has a facebook page. [http://www.facebook.com/Kens.events](http://www.facebook.com/Kens.events) If weekday and evening walks are your thing, then you should join Ken's Weekday and Evenings Walking Group. Click here for more information. [(https://www.meetup.com/KENS-WEEKDAY-EVENING-WALKS/)](https://www.meetup.com/KENS-WEEKDAY-EVENING-WALKS/) When you arrive at the station look for Ken with Kens Events/Meetup Badge outside the station.

🌸 Join us for a scenic walk to and through the largest Royal Park in London, Richmond Park! *This is a special walk to try and hopefully catch the short period that the Rhododendrons and Azaleas are blooming in full colour - spring has been a little early/unpredictable this year so this can be hit and miss.* 🟢 **WALK:** 11km (6.8 miles) / *[This is a much shorter walk than our usual Richmond Park one]* 📍Meeting point: Outside Richmond Underground / Rail Station. Meet from 12:01pm, we aim to start our walk at **12:15pm** insha'Allah. 🔄 Starts/Ends: Richmond Station. 🚻 There are toilets available in the park. 🎒 What to bring: appropriate clothing/shoes, water bottle, snacks, packed lunch! You can have your lunch at Isabella plantation. 🧎 We will take a break for prayer if time for prayer is short. 🗂️ "No shows" for previous events may be moved to the waitlist to prioritise reliable attendees / new joiners - ***when there is a waiting list, priority is given by attendance records / new joiners.*** 📊 [[why it matters](https://tinyurl.com/28sh83cn)] ⛑️ *Disclaimer: You are solely responsible for your own safety on these events and have the fitness level required for it. That you do not require special attention, medication or additional care. You are also responsible for your belonging at all times.* 🌐 **[@Active.Muslims](https://www.instagram.com/active.muslims)** *(Follow for latest events updates)* 🚦 **[Walk/Hike Levels:](https://www.instagram.com/share/reel/BBxV4zomeZ)** 🟢 Easy 🟡 Average 🟠 Moderate 🔴 Challenging ⚫ Very Challenging 🌳 Richmond Park is the largest Royal Park in London, occupying an area of 2,500 acres. It was created by King Charles I in the 17th century as a deer park and still contains over 345 Red deer and 315 Fallow deer.

**Key Info:** • Distance: 10 miles (15km) • Grading: [Beginner](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/HikeGradings.pdf) but it has 2 long steep hills, we take these gently and wait at the top • Ascent: 290m • Hiking time: 4 to 5 hours • Cost: £31 (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, at 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 8:55am train • Return: 5:30pm arrival back in London (you’re committed until then) **Highlights** • Admire **Lullingstone Castle** and its tranquil lakeside setting • Walk a scenic stretch of the **Darent Valley Path** • Pass the site of **Lullingstone Roman Villa**, dating back to around 100 AD • Explore **Lullingstone Country Park**, home to 800-year-old trees • Visit the ruins of **Eynsford Castle**, a Norman fortification from 1088 • Hike beneath the striking **Eynsford Rail Viaduct**, with its 22m-high brick arches • Stroll through three charming **Kentish villages** — Otford, Shoreham and Eynsford **Hike Description** We begin in the historic village of **Otford**, occupied for at least 3,000 years. Through the ages, it has been home to Iron Age farmers, Romans, royalty and archbishops. From here our route leads into the tranquil woods and grasslands of the Kentish countryside, reaching **Shoreham** before following the **Darent Valley Path** into the heart of the valley. The trail takes us into the beautiful **Lullingstone Country Park**, internationally important for its collection of ancient trees. Beech, ash, oak, sweet chestnut and hornbeam all thrive here, with some specimens thought to be over 800 years old. Emerging from the woodland, we arrive at **Lullingstone Castle**, set beside its peaceful lake, before continuing to the site of **Lullingstone Roman Villa** — a rare survival of a Roman estate house first built around 100 AD. From here we continue through rolling Kent fields, rewarded with views of the impressive **Eynsford Rail Viaduct**, its nine red-brick arches towering 22 metres above the valley floor. Our hike concludes in the charming village of **Eynsford**, where we explore the evocative ruins of **Eynsford Castle**, a Norman stronghold built in 1088. With its riverside setting, ancient remains and traditional cottages, the village provides a perfect finale to a day steeped in history and countryside beauty. **Guide:** • Leader: [JOHN](https://www.outdooraholics.co.uk/MeetTheOutdooraholics.pdf) • Contact (hike day only): 07508 511026 ️ **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

**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.

Join us for one of our favorite hikes this Tuesday (4/21/26) at 6:30 pm as we hike the Hoover Dam Scenic Trail, starting at the west end of the dam. This hike includes some paved paths/roads along with some dirt trails, with a few beautiful views of the reservoir. Join us for this 2 mile hike, finding us in the parking lot at the corner of Sunbury and Smoke Burr.

Hi ladies. Let's hike the Edward Thomas, Spring Creek, and a little multi-purpose trail - approximately 4 miles. Please bring a water bottle as needed and appropriate shoes. Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area.

Hi ladies. We will meet in front of the Nature Center and head to the two Observation decks. We will then hike Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook and Sugarbush trails to get approximately four miles total distance. We will walk approximately a 18 minute mile pace. Please wear appropriate hiking shoes.

We will hike the Ridge Trail and Meadows Trail twice, for a total of 3.8 miles. There are some pretty good inclines so plan on getting a cardio workout :). This is a loop which is pretty easy to follow; thus faster walkers can take the lead and the rest (like me) will bring up the rear at a slightly slower pace. You could also just do the loop once for 1.9 miles. No one left behind. Optional lunch to follow in Canal Winchester. I'm working through the metro parks - this is the third one!

Hi ladies. Let's hike the Edward Thomas, Spring Creek, and a little multi-purpose trail - approximately 4 miles so please wear your shoe of choice. Please bring a water bottle as needed and appropriate shoes. Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area.