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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! Check out hiking events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.

Discover all the hiking events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.

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Hiking Events Today

Join in-person Hiking events happening right now

Tuesday Morning Outdoor Yoga (Beginners)@Botanic Gardens
Tuesday Morning Outdoor Yoga (Beginners)@Botanic Gardens
Join me on Tuesday mornings for a hatha yoga class at Botanic Gardens to unwind, stretch, & breathe in the fresh air. Small class size. Hi! I'm Karyn. I organise this small group Hatha Outdoor yoga class for beginners at Singapore Botanic Gardens. Find me at [Lalang Life](https://www.lalanglife.sg/?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=listing&utm_campaign=meetupevent) IG [@lalanglifesg](https://www.instagram.com/lalanglifesg/) (a collective of yoga instructors for private yoga sessions at home/your preferred location). **Small Group Outdoor Hatha Yoga Class at Singapore Botanic Gardens** *Perfect for beginners who want to start their yoga journey in a* UNESCO World Heritage setting. **What You'll Experience:** This is an intimate outdoor hatha yoga class for *newcomers to yoga* and those seeking *a gentle introduction to mindful practice*. With class size **capped at just 4 participants**, you'll receive personalised attention while enjoying the tranquil environment of the Singapore Botanic Gardens. **Who This Class Is For:** * Complete beginners who have never tried yoga before * Busy professionals looking for stress relief in nature * Anyone intimidated by large studio classes who prefers small group settings * Nature lovers who want to combine outdoor time with wellness practice **What Each Session Includes:** * Breathing exercises to ground yourself, centre your mind and be ready for the practice * Gentle loosening and warm-up exercises that prepare your body safely for yoga poses (asanas) * Beginner-friendly yoga asanas (poses) taught with clear, step-by-step guidance * Relaxation and pranayama (breathing techniques) to end your practice **Why Choose Outdoor Yoga at Singapore Botanic Gardens** * Enhanced mental well-being: Studies show that being in green spaces reduces stress * Fresh air & sunshine benefits: Outdoor practice improves oxygen flow and energy levels * Small group: Maximum 4 participants ensures individual attention Meetup collects payment in USD. If you will like to pay in SGD, sign up on [Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/outdoor-yoga-for-beginners-3548139?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=creatorshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=odclsxcollection&utm-source=cp&aff=escb) (SGD20) or DM for paynow payment. Payment to me made by 5pm the day before. **Things to bring:** * ***Yoga mat*** * A small towel * Water * Optional ground sheet/picnic mat or large garbage bag. We may practise on the grass. If you might be uncomfortable laying your yoga mat over the grass (which tends to be damp), do bring something to place under your mat. * Insect repellent will be a good idea **Location** **Meeting point.** We'll meet at the open lawn where the **Bougainvilleas and Bamboo collection** is. Look out for my *yellow* bag. * If you are coming from the **Botanic Gardens MRT Exit A** (circle line), (1) enter the gate then walk through Trellis Garden. (2) Take the middle path. (3) Turn right once exiting Trellis Garden. (4) Look out for the bamboo trees. Then walk on the stone path. (5) You should see the open lawn with bougainvilleas. (6) Look out for my Yellow bag. * If driving, the nearest carpark is near Melati Gate. Google map: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/PhHFbQAEFNB7j1pc6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/PhHFbQAEFNB7j1pc6) **Note: In case of rain or otherwise, the session shall be cancelled and not proceed. I will try my best to inform you of such cancellation via your registered email at least 45 minutes before the session. I appreciate your understanding on this. Your fee will be refunded if the class is cancelled due to rain.** **Release and waiver of liability** By your getting a ticket to this event, you: \- consent to the voluntary participation in the yoga session conducted by the organiser; \- understand that you should consult a physician before participating in the yoga session;\- recognise that it is your responsibility to notify the organiser of any serious illness or injury before the yoga session; \- will not perform any postures to the extent of strain or pain; \- assume full responsibility for any risks\, injuries\, or damages\, known or unknown\, which I might incur because of the yoga session; \- knowingly\, voluntarily\, and expressly waive any claim you may have against the organiser\, for injury or damages that you may sustain because of participating in the yoga session\. **Photography/videography** Photos and/or videos may be taken during the class. The photos/videos may be put up in the public domain for publicity purposes. If you do not wish to have your photo/video used, please inform me during the class.
     -> Never skip a Monday <-
HIIT Bootcamp 💪🏋️‍♀️ for Charity
-> Never skip a Monday <- HIIT Bootcamp 💪🏋️‍♀️ for Charity
Join our 1 hour HIIT bootcamp session for a good cause! 💪💖 Monday @7:30pm The Lawn@MarinaBay | Downtown MRT 💌 This month we are supporting www.aidah.org 💌 Fee: $10 (donation) UEN: T17SS0099L or cash 
Is this class for you? Yes! All fitness levels are welcome and we will make sure you enjoy the hour with us! 🥳 What to bring: Water and Towel, optionally a Yoga mat Please arrive 5 minutes early! If you're unsure about anything just text us!☺️ About us: We are a group of fitness enthusiasts regularly supporting AIDHA, ECDC Nepal and Cambodian children's fund by running fitness classes. COVID-19 safe measures: we want to make the bootcamp as safe as possible for everyone and work out by complying with the current valid covid -19 safe measures. We ask you to fill out our waver the first time you join: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1up4iapcx14z82MIa0XtO5bq1BdQtQFJLDMc-Y94YT6M/edit
Outdoor Yoga at Singapore Botanic Garden
Outdoor Yoga at Singapore Botanic Garden
Reconnect with your body, breath, and nature through a grounding Hatha Yoga practice set in the lush greenery of Singapore Botanic Gardens. This class is designed to energise the body, calm the mind, and leave you feeling refreshed and centred for the day ahead. **What to Expect** * **Kriya (breathing techniques)** to cleanse and detox the body * **Hatha Asanas** to stretch, strengthen, mobilise, and relax the body * **Pranayama & long mindful relaxation** to quieten the mind and reduce stress * Gentle guidance with **variations for every body**, including complete beginners No prior yoga experience needed. We have been practising there since 2018. If you’ve never done yoga before, you are most welcome 💙 **Class Schedule** **Friday** * 7:15am – 8:15am * 9:00am – 10:30am **Sunday** * 8:00am – 9:30am *Other weekday classes are also available and taught by other teachers:* * Monday: 8:30am – 9:30am * Wednesday: 7:00am - 8:00am **Fees** * **$40 per person (single drop-in)** * Class packages available on[ www.namastewithhwee.com](https://www.namastewithhwee.com/booking-calendar/botanic-garden-yoga-class?referral=service_list_widget) **Meeting Point** * Meet **10 minutes before class** * **Botanic Gardens MRT, Exit A (Level 1)** **What to Bring** * Comfortable exercise clothing * Yoga mat * Towel & water bottle **How to Reserve Your Spot** Your spot is **only confirmed after WhatsApp confirmation from the host**. -> **WhatsApp Hwee:**[ +65 9646 9599 ](https://wa.me/6596469599) -> Or purchase a ticket via [www.namastewithhwee.com](https://www.namastewithhwee.com/booking-calendar/botanic-garden-yoga-class?referral=service_list_widget) Follow on social media: Instagram & Facebook: **@NamasteWithHwee** **About the Instructor – Hwee Hwee** Hwee is a yoga instructor who hurt her wrist, dampening her asana practice and just could not recover it 100% with physiotherapy and Traditional Chinese Medicine. A calling drawn her to **Reiki healing** and her recovery progressed so much more! Hwee is an advanced Reiki Level 3 practitioner. With yoga, Hwee fell in love with the **low impact** workout (which was gentle for her teenage injured lower back). Wanting to know yoga beyond the physical aspects (asanas), she went to one of the oldest yoga school in world, G.S. College of Yoga and Cultural Synthesis, Kaivalydham in Lonavla, Pune, India in 2017 and attained her Hatha Yoga teaching certifications from both Kaivalydham and Quality Council of India (QCI) by Indian Yoga Association. Hwee is also into meditation since 2013 and with Hatha Yoga now, the practice between asana (physical exercise) and meditation has integrated into one. > *“We don’t do meditation — meditation happens to us.”* Join Hwee for a nourishing outdoor practice of yoga, pranayama, and gentle healing. Hwee also speaks **Chinese & Japanese.** Instagram & Facebook: **@NamasteWithHwee** [https://www.facebook.com/namastewithhwee/](https://www.facebook.com/namastewithhwee/) [https://www.instagram.com/namastewithhwee/](https://www.instagram.com/namastewithhwee/) [www.namastewithhwee.com](www.namastewithhwee.com)
Raffles2Raffles Walk & Dinner
Raffles2Raffles Walk & Dinner
Hi everyone, Join us this month for our weekday (Monday) evening walk from Raffles Place MRT station to Raffles City Shopping Centre, featuring the following highlights along the way: * Singapore River * Cavenagh Bridge * Queen Elizabeth Walk * City waterfront and skyline * Esplanade For this walk, we'll set off at 6.30pm (be there at least 10 minutes earlier for attendance-taking). We aim to complete the walk within 60 minutes (less than 4km), and we'll have dinner together at Raffles City Shopping Centre. This is a rain-or-shine event; the itinerary may be changed if there is a thunderstorm. **Important - To receive updates including the exact location to meet, please follow these steps to join this event:** (1) After you have joined the event on Meetup.com (regardless of whether you are on the “Going” list or the “Waitlist”), please join the **current event Telegram group: https://t.me/+NHuS9eAp1RJiMDc1**. (2) Participants of our past events will also NEED TO JOIN this current Telegram group as we will NOT be communicating with you about the current event via past event Telegram groups. (3) If your name in Telegram is different from your name in Meetup.com, please let us know your Telegram name by sending us (any one of the event Organizers) a private message on Meetup.com. Otherwise, we may not admit you into the current event Telegram group if we don't know who you are. (4) Once you have requested to join the event Telegram group, please WAIT for us to admit you into the group nearer the event date. Please note that only those who are on the “Going” list on Meetup.com will be admitted into the Telegram group. (5) After you have been admitted into the event Telegram group, please look out for any updates and announcements in Telegram before the start of the event, including the exact location to meet on the event date. For this event, there is a limit of up to 15 participants at the discretion of the organizers, so do sign up soon. RSVP will close one day before the event date. What to bring: * Good walking shoes * Drinking water * Umbrella (in case of rain) Please take note of the following: * All are welcome to join, whether Christian or not; you just need to be open to interacting with participants who may share with you their Christian faith. * To create a safe space for all participants to interact and make friends, please do not promote your business / products / services during this event. * You are responsible for your personal safety and well-being during the walk. If you are feeling unwell before the walk, please let us know and excuse yourself through the Telegram group. * Late cancellations, late arrivals, or no-shows may affect your priority to participate in future events. See you!
Open Sessions - Free Runner Lodge
Open Sessions - Free Runner Lodge
http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/5/8/7/600_434874663.jpeg For experience parkour practitioner to train in the lodge to further progress their skills or try new moves Bring water, wear sporty attire (long pants & covered shoes + rubber sole and the waiver form (can be found on website) Provided below is a detailed guide of "how to get there";Do save the following The new location is held at Lavender. The address is as follows; CT Hub 2 #05-91 2 kallang avenue, Singapore 339829
Parkour Training
Parkour Training
http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/7/6/1/600_434875137.jpeg Check out http://www.A2Movements.com for detailed info! Bring water, wear sporty attire (long pants & covered shoes + rubber sole and the waiver form (can be found on website)
Rooftop @1-Altitude Coast
Rooftop @1-Altitude Coast
Registration starts 7pm. Cover charge S$10 Dress code: smart casual Order a drink and grab a seat at the reserved tables, feel free to move around within the group.

Hiking Events This Week

Discover what is happening in the next few days

6th Ave to Rifle Range Jalan Jalan 🦋🌈✌️🚶‍♀️😎
6th Ave to Rifle Range Jalan Jalan 🦋🌈✌️🚶‍♀️😎
Join us for a refreshing evening walk from Sixth Avenue to Rifle Range 🌿✨, as we ease into a scenic route that blends quiet neighbourhood charm with pockets of lush greenery. Expect a peaceful journey with tranquil nature trails, perfect for unwinding and meeting new friends along the way. Come for the fresh air, good company, and a simple yet rewarding escape into one of Singapore’s greener corridors 🌇🌳😊. This Meetup group is a community-led group by volunteers, who enjoy the Great Outdoors (GO) and would like to share the GO with u too! 🤎✌️😃 **This is a free community walk, created simply for the joy of exploring together. To keep the spirit of the walk genuine and relaxed, we don’t involve donations, promotions, or sales of any kind. We warmly ask everyone to be punctual and considerate of fellow walkers, so that the journey remains smooth and enjoyable for all. 😊😊 Late cancellation or no-shows may affect your priority for future walks. The 'going' list may not necessarily follow a strict sequence. 🔄 Gate-crashers will be turned away to keep things smooth for everyone.** To protect your privacy, we do not collect telephone numbers 📵. Communication will be through the Event page. Kindly check for any updates, especially on the day of the event, so that you will be updated on any changes. The route may be amended or the hike postponed in the event of inclement weather, for the safety of our walkers. 🚶🚶‍♂️ As part of Meetup's enhanced privacy/ security measures, the meeting point will now be visible to attendees only. Exercise care while you walk. Please inform us when you feel unwell and need to drop out. *Disclaimer: By joining this walk, you assume responsibility for your own safety and well-being 🚸, and will not hold the organizers/hosts liable for any loss or injury or other unforeseen events, ensuring a shared commitment to a safe and enjoyable experience for all. 😊 Thank you. 🙏
East Coast Sunset Walk
East Coast Sunset Walk
## 🚶‍♂️ 6:00pm – Start Walking (CRITICAL) You must **start by 6:00pm latest** to catch sunset at jetty. *** ## 🌇 6:00pm – 6:50pm (Golden Hour City Walk) Route: * Gardens → Marina Bay → Helix Bridge → ECP connector **Pacing:** relaxed but steady **Goal:** reach ECP before sunset window 💡 This is your **best engagement phase** *** ## 🌅 6:50pm – 7:15pm (Sunset at Bedok Jetty) 📍 Bedok Jetty * Ideal arrival: **\~6:55pm–7:05pm** * Sunset: \~7:10pm **What to do:** * Pause here (don’t rush past this moment) * Group photos + free time * Let people soak in the experience *** ## 🌊 7:15pm – 7:45pm (Post-Sunset Coastal Walk) * Slow, relaxed pace * Conversations flow naturally * Sky still glowing (afterglow effect) *** ## 🍜 7:45pm – 8:45pm (Dinner Block) 📍 East Coast Lagoon Food Village * Strongly encourage people to join * Sit in small groups (6–8 pax for bonding) 💡 This is where relationships actually deepen *** ## 🚶‍♂️ 8:45pm – 9:05pm (Final Short Walk) * Walk toward Bayshore MRT * Easy 15–20 min cooldown walk *** ## 🚇 9:05pm – End 📍 Bayshore MRT Clean, satisfying finish ✅ *** # 📏 Distance & pacing reality check * Total distance: **\~8–9km** * Total walking time: \~2.5–3 hours (with stops) * Suitable for beginners **if pace is controlled**
Sembawang Park Walk
Sembawang Park Walk
** LOST OLD HAINAN VILLAGE > PEIRCE RESERVOIR! **
** LOST OLD HAINAN VILLAGE > PEIRCE RESERVOIR! **
Hey members, for those who are free on a weekday morning, come join us for this lovely **Sunrise Heritage Hike** with your TLC friends. It is a scenic hike to enjoy the peaceful morning, greenery and the canopy of trees at **Thomson Nature Park** & the **scenic Peirce Reservoir**. We'll meet at SpringLeaf Mrt where you can go there earlier if you like to enjoy your Hakka Yong Tau Foo or SpringLeaf Prata breakfast first before meeting us. At 8am, we'll set off to explore and discover the **LOST OLD HAINAN VILLAGE** Heritage Trail and it's beautiful historical ruins. Thereafter we'll continue our hike under the shade of trees on the boardwalks leading to the edge of Peirce Reservoir for you to enjoy the beautiful reflection of the waters and the nice scenery around you. After a good hike, we'll end this scenic morning hike with ... what else? Teh-Tarik & Roti- Prata either at the Casuarina Prata joint or have brunch trying some of our local hawker favourites at the **Old** **Sembawang Hills Food Centre**. Yes, this is our **"HIKE, EAT & MEET NEW FRIENDS"** event but most importantly it is a good opportunity for you to catch up, meet and get to know more TLC hiking buddies. As this is a free event and slots are limited, please RSVP early. Remember to provide us your **Mobile Number** when you RSVP so that we can send you the details and exact place to meet once RSVP closes. ***Those without Mobile Nos. shall be removed from the list.*** This scenic walk is for TLC members only. Please ask your friend/ family members to join our TLC Group and RSVP on this Event with their Hp. Nos (visible only to us) so that we can forward them the Event details & Meet-up point. **Priority** will be given to members who are joining us for our upcoming trips to meet fellow travellers & also our TLC FaceBook members who've clicked **"LIKE"** on our FaceBook page. Click here to join our FaceBook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/travel.leisure.care **EVENT DETAILS** will be sent to all on the GOING LIST on Monday evening once RSVP closes. See you all soon! **Event Host:** **David Lim - 9745 1777**
Walk Wild, Eat Well: Kranji–Sungei Buloh–JB(Jiak)
Walk Wild, Eat Well: Kranji–Sungei Buloh–JB(Jiak)
Join us for a refreshing nature escape from **Kranji Reservoir to Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve**—a perfect blend of scenic exploration, wildlife spotting, and a rewarding cross-border food adventure. **📅 Event Details** **Meeting Point:** Kranji MRT Exit A (08:30am) Kranji Reservoir Car Park B (09:00am) **Duration of Walk:** \~2-2.5 hours (leisure pace, flat surface) **Jiak:** Bus to the Checkpoint → Johor Bahru for a well-deserved late lunch **🌱 What to Expect** We’ll explore **Singapore’s first ASEAN Heritage Park**, known for its rich biodiversity and role as a sanctuary for migratory birds. This leisurely walk offers a chance to reconnect with nature while discovering some of the reserve’s most unique highlights: * **Eagle Point** Watch the skies for majestic eagles and other raptors gliding and hunting فوق the coastal waters. * **Mangrove Boardwalk** Wander through lush mangrove forests on elevated paths—no muddy shoes required—while observing fascinating flora and fauna up close. * **Kingfisher Pod** One of the scenic coastal pods offering uninterrupted views of the wetlands and sea—perfect for a quiet pause or photo moment. *** **🦎 Wildlife Encounters (if luck is on our side!)** Keep your eyes peeled for: * **Malayan Water Monitors** and possibly rarer species like the *Clouded Monitor* or *Dumeril’s Monitor* * The elusive **Estuarine Crocodile**, occasionally seen basking or gliding through the water *** After the walk, you can choose to join us for jiak in JB or end the walk there. We’ll hop on a bus to the Checkpoint and head into **Johor Bahru for a relaxed late lunch**—a great way to end the walk with good food and even better company. *** **👟 What to Bring** * Comfortable walking shoes * Water bottle * Hat/sunscreen/umbrella * Insect repellent * Binoculars (optional, but great for birdwatching!) * \*\*\*\*Passport (for those planning to join us for lunch at JB)\*\*\*
TRAINING HIKE: Rucking at MacRitchie - Full Loop
TRAINING HIKE: Rucking at MacRitchie - Full Loop
**Get Ready for the Mountains** For all adventure seekers training for your next trek, or simply be always ready for one! Join me and our trip participants for a training hike: Meet/End: MacRitchie Reservoir, outside Gink-Go Cafe (formerly Mushroom Cafe) Distance: 11km Duration: \~2.5 hours **Note that this is not a leisure hike. We will be fast-hike at 4.5-5km/hour for the entire 11km full loop.** **Ruck It Up** Rucking is simply walking/hiking with a weighted pack on your back. Rucking builds muscle and strength while improving cardio & endurance and well… burn up more calories! A day pack of +/-5kg will be a good start, or more for that multi-day trek. Loading up is optional; especially if you may have any health or medical restrictions. We can do a weigh-in of your pack for your own progress tracking if you are up for it. **NOTE:** * advised to have some light breakfast before the workout * bring sufficient water and food/snacks for refuel. water refill point available at around halfway mark. * Waterproof your items and be rain-equipped (rain cover, rain jacket, poncho, umbrella, etc.) * Hiking poles (optional) *In case of Cat 1 (bad weather); any change of plans will be announced on the morning of hike* The 'Waitlist' may not go in order as we reserve the right to prioritize the spots for our trip participants who are training for our upcoming treks. Thank you for your understanding! \#\#\# Important Liability Notice By joining this training, you acknowledge that you are participating voluntarily and understand the physical risks inherent in this activity. **AU** is not responsible for any injuries, accidents, or health complications that may occur during the training. Please ensure you are medically fit and adequately prepared for the demands of the session. **If you are prepared for a challenging, rewarding effort, we look forward to seeing you.** Join us on social media to keep updated with our latest adventures!
[https://bit.ly/m/Adventures-Unlimited](https://bit.ly/m/Adventures-Unlimited)
Conditioning Workout @ Bukit Timah Hill
Conditioning Workout @ Bukit Timah Hill
Have you experienced the power of habits, dedication, and small actions over time? This is your sign to start, or continue building on your past efforts! “Consistency is what transforms average into excellence.” — Tony Robbins **Date:** 25 Apr 2026 (Sat) **Meeting Time:** 8am **Meeting point:** Hillview MRT Exit A **Route:** Hillview MRT Exit A ➝ Dairy Farm Nature Park ➝ Bukit Timah Summit ➝ 2-3 Staircase Loops ➝ Bukit Timah Nature Reserve Visitor Centre **Notes:** · Advised to have some light breakfast before the workout · Bring sufficient water and food/snacks for refuel · Waterproof your items and be rain-equipped (rain cover, rain jacket, poncho, umbrella, etc.) · Towel, small cloth or extra clothing for change out · Hiking poles (optional) · **RSVP**: If there is a change in availability, please update your RSVP at least one day in advance. **Please read this:** #1 – **Attendance.** This is a number-controlled event. Please come only if you are on the attending list. Please check your calendar and make sure you can come before RSVP, so as not to deny someone else who genuinely wishes to come. #2 – **Punctuality.** We will move out at 8.05am sharp. We are not able to wait for latecomers. #3 – **Early Departure.** Please inform the Event Host if you need to leave early. #4 – **Waitlist.** Please note that the waitlist may not be processed in order. We may prioritize spots for participants training for upcoming hikes/ trips. #5 – **Weather Updates.** In case of severe weather conditions, we will provide an update or adjust the route accordingly. **Important Liability Notice:** By joining this training, you acknowledge that you are participating voluntarily and understand the physical risks inherent in this activity. AU is not responsible for any injuries, accidents, or health complications that may occur during the training. Please ensure you are medically fit and adequately prepared for the demands of the session. Thank you for your understanding! See you there! Join us on social media to keep updated with our latest adventures! [https://bit.ly/m/Adventures-Unlimited](https://bit.ly/m/Adventures-Unlimited) "Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out." — Robert Collier

Hiking Events Near You

Connect with your local Hiking community

Trails & Ales! Blendon Woods Metro Park / Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery
Trails & Ales! Blendon Woods Metro Park / Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery
**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.
Sharon Woods HIKE
Sharon Woods HIKE
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.
Hike Blendon Woods Metro Park
Hike Blendon Woods Metro Park
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.
Hike Chestnut Ridge
Hike Chestnut Ridge
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!
Sharon Woods HIKE
Sharon Woods HIKE
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.
Blendonwood Ravine Day Hike, 10:30 am
Blendonwood Ravine Day Hike, 10:30 am