Hiking

**Von Einsamkeit zu Gemeinschaft \| Verbindungen schaffen** **mit *Marco Obermüller*** **Geschlossene Gruppe \| 6 Mal donnerstags \| auf Deutsch\*** für **LGBTQIA**+ kostenlos mit **[Anmeldung](https://wearevillage.org/shop/einsamkeitserien1/w04-2026/)** Einsamkeit kann entstehen, wenn Menschen wenig Gelegenheit haben, eine echte Verbindung zu anderen zu erleben. Hier setzt die Gruppe an, indem sie Räume schafft, in denen Zugehörigkeit aktiv erfahrbar wird. Im gemeinsamen Arbeiten an persönlichen Themen entsteht ein sozialer Resonanzraum, der Isolation durch Beziehung und Kontakt ersetzt. Durch das strukturierte Teilen von Erfahrungen wird Einsamkeit sichtbar, besprechbar und damit veränderbar. Durch moderierte Interaktion, Perspektivwechsel, kleine Experimente des Kontakterlebens und dem gemeinsamen Reflektieren, entwickeln Teilnehmende neue Formen von Verbundenheit und Strategien für soziale Wirksamkeit. Die Gruppe fungiert nicht nur als Unterstützung, sondern als Lernfeld für Beziehungsgestaltung. So entstehen tragfähige Verbindungen, die über das einzelne Treffen hinaus wirken und helfen, Einsamkeit nachhaltig zu reduzieren. **Hinweise** Diese Serie ist offen für alle. Diese Gruppe besteht aus maximal 15 Teilnehmern. **Sprache:** Dieses Reihe wird auf Deutsch sein. Dein Deutsch sollte fließend genug sein, um eine Veranstaltung auf Deutsch zu folgen. **Wichtig**: Du musst dich für die 6 Termine verpflichten. **Termine**: 22./01, 12./02, 26./02, 12./03, 09./04, and 23./04. **Geschlossene Gruppe**: Diese Struktur schafft eine vertrauensvolle Umgebung, in der Teilnehmer tiefergehende Verbindungen aufbauen können. **Kosten**: kostenlos mit Anmeldung *\*\* Diese Veranstaltung ist Teil unseres Programms ‚****[Gemeinsam statt einsam](https://wearevillage.org/village-quartiere/addressing-queer-lonliness)****‚, unterstützt von der* ***[LADS](https://www.berlin.de/sen/lads/)****.* *Erfahre mehr über das Programm [hier](https://wearevillage.org/village-quartiere/addressing-queer-lonliness).* 🔵 **From Loneliness to Community \| Creating Connections** **with *Marco Obermüller*** **Closed Group \| 6 Thursdays \| In German\*** für **LGBTQIA+** Free event with **[registration](https://wearevillage.org/en/shop/einsamkeitserien1/w04-2026/)** Loneliness can arise when people have few opportunities to experience genuine connection with others. This is where the group comes in, creating spaces in which a sense of belonging can be actively experienced. By working together on personal topics, a social space of resonance emerges that replaces isolation with relationship and contact. Through the structured sharing of experiences, loneliness becomes visible, discussable, and therefore open to change. Through facilitated interaction, shifts in perspective, small experiments in experiencing contact, and shared reflection, participants develop new forms of connectedness and strategies for social effectiveness. The group functions not only as a source of support, but also as a learning environment for shaping relationships. In this way, resilient connections are formed that extend beyond the individual meeting and help to sustainably reduce loneliness. **General Information** This group consists of a maximum of 15 participants. **Language**: This series will be held in German. This series is open to everyone. Your German should be fluent enough to follow an event in German. **Important**: you must commit to all 6 sessions. **Dates**: 22/01, 12/02, 26/02, 12/03, 09/04, and 23/04. **Closed Group**: This structure creates a supportive environment where participants can build deeper connections. **Cost**: free event with registration *\*\* This event is part of the we are village program ‘****[Belonging versus Lonelines](https://wearevillage.org/village-quartiere/addressing-queer-lonliness)****‘, with the support of* ***[LADS](https://www.berlin.de/sen/lads/en/)****.* *Learn more about the program [here](https://wearevillage.org/village-quartiere/addressing-queer-lonliness).*

***Escape to Bulgaria this winter for skiing, snowboarding, thermal pools, and unforgettable mountain moments with like-minded travelers.*** **HOW DO I JOIN THIS TRIP?** **For more detailed info & to get entry for this trip, click on link below 👇🏽:** [https://bulgaria-skiing2026.eventbrite.de](https://bulgaria-skiing2026.eventbrite.de) **Note: Flights inclusive price can be provided on request from any European city, so you can either join the Whatsapp group to further discuss this or post a comment here in order to get more details on it.** Looking for an affordable ski trip with epic mountain views, great vibes, and a welcoming community? Join us for a winter adventure in Bulgaria, combining skiing, culture, food, and relaxation. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced skier, this trip is designed for everyone who loves winter, nature, and meeting like-minded people. **❄️ WHY JOIN THIS TRIP?** Bulgaria is one of Europe’s **best-kept ski secrets.** Borovets offers excellent slopes, modern lifts, and a lively après-ski scene — all at a fraction of the cost of the Alps. This trip blends: * Skiing & snowboarding in the Rila Mountains * Cultural discovery in Sofia * Thermal pools to relax tired muscles * Traditional food, games, and social evenings Come solo or with friends — you’ll leave with **new connections and unforgettable memories.** **🌟 HIGHLIGHTS** 🎿 Ski & snowboard in **Borovets Ski Resort** (all levels) 🏔 Rila Mountains – Bulgaria’s highest mountain range 🏙 Guided walking tour of **Sofia** 🛁 Relaxing **thermal pools** after ski days 🍲 Traditional Bulgarian food in rustic mehana taverns 🤝 Community-led trip with a friendly, international group **📍 DESTINATIONS** **🏙 Sofia** Bulgaria’s vibrant capital, rich in history and culture. From Roman ruins to stunning Orthodox churches like **Alexander Nevsky Cathedral**, Sofia is the perfect introduction to the country. **🎿 Borovets Ski Resort** Nestled in the Rila Mountains, Borovets is Bulgaria’s most popular ski resort. Well-groomed slopes, modern lifts, alpine views, and a fun après-ski atmosphere make it ideal for beginners and seasoned skiers alike. **🗓 DATES & MEETING POINTS** **🅰️ Option A** **Thursday 26 Feb – Monday 2 March 2026** * Meet your guide & group at your accommodation in **Sofia from 5:00 pm onwards (Thursday)** **🅱️ Option B** **Friday 27 Feb – Monday 2 March 2026** * Meet your guide & group in **Sofia city centre by 2:00 pm (Friday)** * Exact location will be shared in the WhatsApp group on the day **✈️ End Point (Both Options)** **Sofia Airport – from 2:00 pm onwards on Monday** Leaving earlier or later? No problem — just let us know closer to the trip. **🎯 DIFFICULTY LEVEL** ✔ Suitable for **beginners, intermediates & experienced skiers** ✔ Skiing / snowboarding is optional — you can also relax and enjoy the mountains **✅ WHAT’S INCLUDED** ✔ Community leader throughout the trip ✔ 1 night twin-share hotel in **Sofia** ✔ 3 nights twin-share hotel in **Borovets** ✔ Daily breakfast ✔ Private transportation throughout the trip ✔ Ski / snowboard hire ✔ Winter gear hire (helmet, jacket, etc.) ✔ Lift passes for **2 days** ✔ Thermal pools experience ✔ Guided walking tour of Sofia Accommodation upgrades available on request. **➕ OPTIONAL ADD-ON** **🎿 Ski / Snowboard Lessons** * Private instructor * €20–30 per person (2 hours, up to 4 people) * Can be booked closer to the trip **✈️ HOW TO GET TO SOFIA** Flying is the fastest and easiest option, with direct flights from most European cities. 💬 Want help with flights or a flight-inclusive package? Message us directly on **WhatsApp / SMS: +49 152 2150 6123** **🗺️ WHAT IS THE PLAN?** **🟢 Day 0 – Meet & Greet (Sofia)** Arrive in Sofia → subway or taxi to central accommodation → meet your guide & fellow participants. **🟢 Day 1 – Sofia Walking Tour → Borovets** Guided city walk with a local expert → churches, landmarks & history → afternoon transfer to Borovets. **🟢 Day 2 & 3 – Ski & Snowboard Days** Two full days on the slopes of Borovets. Optional lessons available. Evenings spent enjoying traditional food, games, and social time. **🟢 Day 4 – Departure** Breakfast → return transfer to Sofia Airport (arrival \~2:00 pm). **📸 PREVIOUS TRIPS** Curious to see what it’s like? Check out **photos & videos from our last Bulgaria Ski & Snowboard trip (March 2025)** — link shared in comments / group chat. **🤝 WHO IS THIS FOR?** ✔ Solo travelers ✔ First-time skiers ✔ Snowboarders ✔ Winter lovers ✔ Anyone looking for a fun, social, affordable ski trip Please do join our Whatsapp / Telegram channel for updates about our future trips including possible early bird discounts, contests etc. 1. [Whatsapp Channel](https://go.unt.global/travelgroup) 2. [Telegram Channel](https://t.me/urbanaturetravel)

**MELDE DICH FÜR DIE VERANSTALTUNG AN, INDEM DU DIE [WEMEET-APP HIER](wemeet.weroad.com/event/c6b98c5e-d2c4-4314-9c41-17411cb8f696) HERUNTERLÄDST** Neu in Berlin? Alte Freunde zu beschäftigt? Zeit, das zu ändern! Wir treffen uns einmal pro Woche, um gemeinsam neue Events zu erleben, neue Leute kennenzulernen und einfach eine gute Zeit zu haben. Bei **Drinks & New Friends** geht es darum, coole, gemütliche Ecken zu entdecken. Dich erwarten Drinks, Snacks, Musik und gute Gespräche – **dieses Mal mit Salsa & Latin Vibes**. Lass dich überraschen, genieße die Musik und lerne entspannt neue Freundschaften kennen. 🤝 **Kein Ghosting. Kein Drama.** Wer sich anmeldet, kommt auch. Und wenn nicht: bitte rechtzeitig absagen, damit niemand allein warten muss. Wir übernehmen Organisation und Reservierung. Du bringst Offenheit mit – mehr braucht es nicht! **Komm vorbei, hab Spaß und lerne deine neuen Freunde kennen! 💚**

Come join a small group for hatha yoga in my home studio in Prenzlauer berg. I am a certified yoga teacher, having trained in Bali and India. After the class you will feel relaxed, yet energised. Mats are included and sanitised, altogether 15 euros. Your muscles will be lengthened and back stiffness reduced more and more each time✨

Join us for a powerful outdoor Wim Hof–inspired experience at Schlachtensee. INSTAGRAM **(@holostar33)** We combine conscious breathing, cold-water immersion and guided rewarming to help you boost your energy, mental resilience and inner strength. This session is guided by **Javi de Lacour (@javidelacour)** — the main facilitator of the event, with **over 200 ice baths completed** and **more than 80 guided immersions**. Together with **Paula García**, we create a safe, motivating and transformative experience. *** ## **Session Structure** ### **1\. Wim Hof Breathwork \(10 min\)** Before entering the cold water, we prepare the body and mind through guided breathing: * Immediate mental control through deep, conscious cycles * Strong oxygenation and energy activation * Emotional grounding and focused awareness * Calm confidence to face the cold **Your benefit:** calmer mind, stronger lungs, better stress response and mental focus. *** ### **2\. Guided Cold Water Immersion \(5 min\)** A supervised immersion in the lake’s cold water: * Intense circulation boost * Reduced inflammation and muscle tension * Activation of your resilience and inner strength * Support and guidance throughout the entire immersion **Your benefit:** increased vitality, mental toughness and rapid physical recovery. *** ### **3\. Rewarming & Inner Heat Activation \(15 min\)** After leaving the water, we guide you through specific exercises to: * Restore your body temperature safely * Activate your muscles * Integrate the emotional and physical benefits **Your benefit:** full-body renewal, clarity, and long-lasting energy. *** ## **What to Bring** * Warm clothes * Towel * Swimwear * Dry socks * Water bottle * Optional: gloves, hat, warm tea *** ## **Contraindications** Not suitable for: * Severe cardiovascular disease * Uncontrolled hypertension * Pregnancy * Epilepsy If unsure, send us a message. *** ## **Who We Are (@holostar33)** **Javi de Lacour (@javidelacour)** – Main facilitator ✔ 200+ ice baths completed ✔ 80+ guided immersions ✔ Breathwork & cold exposure specialist **Paula García** ✔ Breathwork facilitator ✔ Holostar33 co-founder ✔ Community & somatic support We guide safe, grounded and empowering outdoor experiences in Berlin.

**We are happy to announce a new Tandem Night!** After the success of our previous Sprachyfass events, we’re excited to present our latest edition; this time focusing exclusively on **German and French**. This event offers a relaxed environment to practice your language skills while meeting new people. Whether you’re improving your German or perfecting your French, Sprachbar – Sprachyfass is the perfect opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations with fellow learners and native speakers. **Event Details:** * **Location:** Sisyfass – Wildenbruchstr. 7, 12045 Berlin * **Time:** From 19:45 – Open End (music will follow from 22:00 on) * **Fee:** Free participation – but don’t forget to grab a drink at the bar to support the venue * **Host:** The event will be hosted by **Christine**! **How It Works:** * Focused on German and French – all levels are welcome, with a target range of **A2–B1**. * Participants are grouped by proficiency to ensure comfortable conversations. * Regular rotations give everyone the chance to meet new people and practice both languages. **FAQs:** 1. **I’m interested in practicing German/French but don’t speak the other language. Can I still participate?** Yes, you’re welcome to join even if one language is stronger for you. However, the goal is to create a tandem environment between German and French, so it’s ideal if you have some knowledge of both. 2. **My proficiency isn’t very high, but I’d like to participate. Is this event suitable for me?** Absolutely! This event is all about practicing and connecting, so all skill levels are encouraged. Just keep in mind that the focus is on German and French. 3. **Is there a fee to attend?** No, the event is free. However, purchasing a drink at the bar helps support the venue, and we encourage everyone to enjoy the cozy atmosphere with a drink or two! We look forward to a fantastic evening of language exchange and fun!

Bitte kauft in den Restaurants mindestens einen Artikel, damit wir keinen Ärger mit dem Manager bekommen. -> Location Berlin Potsdamer Platz -> The Playce -> Manifesto Markt Wir sitzen unten oft an den großen runden Tischen vor dem Restaurant Kumpir'a oder an den langen Tischen vor dem Pizza und Pasta Restaurant im Erdgeschoss. Dieses Treffen ist für: -Internationale Teilnehmer aus allen Ländern, die auf Deutsch Kontakte knüpfen wollen. -Deutsch-sprachige, die in netter Gesellschaft anderen helfen wollen, Deutsch zu sprechen, oder nur neue Kontakte knüpfen wollen.

Fancy a proper winter walk and good vegan company? We’ll meet at Wandlitzsee station and do a relaxed loop around Lake Liepnitzsee. Expect around 14 km, 4–5 hours total, including a lunch break by the water. * **Where**: Wandlitzsee Bahnhof (meeting at the platform) * **When**: Saturday 28 February, 10:46 sharp (RB27 arrival) * **Please note**: we’ll start walking immediately and won’t wait for late arrivals * **Route**: about 14 km around Liepnitzsee, with a lunch stop by the lake * **Vegan-only event**: bring your own vegan lunch. Sharing is welcome but always optional * **Costs: €1** event fee (non-refundable) **€1 event fee (non-refundable)** The €1 fee helps cover the Meetup app fee and other small expenses, and any excess will be donated to animal rights NGOs. Please send it via the **PayPal details in the comments** (only visible to people marked Going) **within 48 hours** of RSVPing. No PayPal? Message me for the IBAN. **If the €1 fee isn’t received within 48 hours of RSVPing, your RSVP will be automatically cancelled.** We want everyone to feel safe and comfortable. Please respect boundaries. Harassment or disrespectful behaviour isn’t welcome and will mean removal from future events.

**Route:** [Link](https://www.komoot.com/tour/2798359077?ref=aso&share_token=adFRJtdV6q9IciPEZgDCgA8UOe17PdZIZ4gNpkZksxU3Olezgx) **Walking Speed:** ~4.5 km/hr **Highlights:** Müggelsee, Großer Müggelberg, Kleiner Müggelberg, and Dahme. **General Notes:** We will take brief breaks for refreshments, but don't plan for coffee stops. Please bring your water, snacks, mosquito repellent, and dress suitably for the day's weather. Please make every effort to be on time. I'm not a professional guide and according to Meetup rules not liable for anyone's safety. If you can't make it, please be respectful enough to update your confirmation of participation in a timely manner to give those in waiting list a fair chance to prepare. Participants with past no-shows or unexplained cancellations on the event day will be deprioritized, and only confirmed RSVP may join the hike.

***(EN Below)*** Begleite uns auf einem spannenden Wanderabenteuer! Gemeinsam erkunden wir wunderschöne Wanderwege in der Umgebung und entdecken Sehenswürdigkeiten wie die Street-Art am Teufelsberg. Diese Veranstaltung ist ideal für Naturliebhaber und Outdoor-Fans, die gerne neue Kontakte knüpfen möchten. **Jeder ist willkommen. Wir treffen uns am 1. März um 11 Uhr an der S-Bahn-Station Heerstraße. Wir werden die folgende Route wandern:** **https://www.komoot.com/de-de/smarttour/1574152724?ref=wdd** Wenn du neu in der Gruppe bist, lies dir bitte unsere Haupt-Gruppenseite durch. Danke. *Foto von Travel with Lenses: https://www.pexels.com/de-de/foto/technologie-turm-berlin-deutschland-22574859/* Join us on an exciting hiking adventure! Together, we will explore beautiful local trails and discover attractions like the street art at Teufelsberg. This event is perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to connect with others. **Everyone is welcome. We are meeting on the 1 st of March at 11am at S-Bahn Station Heerstraße.We will walk the following route:** **https://www.komoot.com/de-de/smarttour/1574152724?ref=wdd** If you are new in this group, please read our main group page. Thank you. Picture from Travel with Lenses: https://www.pexels.com/de-de/foto/technologie-turm-berlin-deutschland-22574859/

Have you always wanted to learn bouldering but never had the right company? Or are you an experienced boulderer who just wants to find boulder-buddies? If yes, this is the right event for you. We are going to meet inside "urban apes Basement Boulderstudio", close to S Anhalter Bahnhof, also not far from Potsdamer Platz. If you have never been there, you will need to sign up with them, which will take a bit of time. After that, **you can find us on the couches near the lockers (not in front of the reception), next to a red smiley**. When you enter the actual gym, enter the hall by turning left immediately - you are walking towards them. We will start warming up around 11:10, so everyone has enough time to arrive and get changed before that. ***\*\*\**** *Spots are limited, so please update your RSVP at least 24 hours in advance if you won't be joining. **NO-SHOWs ARE NOT COOL \*\*\**** We enter the gym at 11:00, if you are late, you will need to look for us inside. IMPORTANT: they only accept cards as a payment method. No cash. One day ticket will cost you 13,90 EUR (10,90 EUR if you are a student, free if Urban Sports Club). **What to bring: well, first of all, a good mood.** But you could also bring * climbing shoes if you have any. If not, you can rent them there, no worries. They cost 3,50 EUR. * a lock (for the locker). * chalk. You won't need that if you are a beginner. Renting is possible. * water. * extra clothes. It's quite chalky there and humans sweat, not the best mix, don't you think? :D Please, note: the organizer is not responsible for anything, including injuries. A basic introduction will be provided.

This run is part of our preparation series for the Oberelber Dresden Race. The pace will be 6:30–7:30 min/km. Feel free to reach out if you’d like to join the trip. Run and workout with Francesca! 🥰 On 28.02, we‘ll meet at S-Bahn Plänterwald at 11 am and will run in the direction of Rummelsburger Ufer. It’s a 10k easy run with two short workout sessions along the way, so feel free to join, even if you’re new. Each workout will last about 10 minutes, with exercises adapted to suit every individual’s level. We’ll finish our run near URBAyN cafe where we’ll have a coffee together: https://maps.app.goo.gl/yiztm5JzWwcAPrka6?g_st=ic Don’t forget to register and add +1 if you bring a friend! Have a great week, and we look forward to spending another active morning with you ❤️ P.S. Please cancel your participation if you can’t show up, even if it’s at short notice so that we don’t wait for you. Thanks 😊

**Es sind alle willkommen. Wir treffen uns am 28.02. um 11:00 im Kaffee 26 für einen Kaffee (und/oder Tee, Kuchen...). Ich freue mich auf euch!** Wenn du neu in der Gruppe bist, lies dir bitte unsere Haupt-Gruppenseite durch. Danke. **Everyone is welcome. We are meeting on the 28th of February at 11am in Kaffee 26 for a morning coffee (and/or tea, cake...). Hope to see you there!** If you are new in this group, please read our main group page. Thank you.

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**History** [Slate Run Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/slate-run/), located south of Canal Winchester in Pickaway County, has roots tracing back to the early planning efforts of the Columbus and Franklin County Metropolitan Park District. In 1963, Metro Parks officials identified the land along Slate Run as having strong potential for a large metropolitan park due to its expansive acreage, diverse habitats, and natural features like the stream that gave the area its name. The largest stream in the vicinity, Slate Run, flows south to northwest through a ridge, providing a logical basis for the park's designation. Between 1964 and 1968, Metro Parks acquired approximately 1,662 acres through multiple parcels, including a key 212-acre farmstead that had been continuously operated since 1805. This acquisition phase positioned Slate Run as a future major addition to the system, following the openings of other parks like Sharon Woods in 1968 and Highbanks in 1973. The park officially opened to the public in 1981, marking it as the sixth Metro Park in the district and, at the time, the largest with its substantial land holdings. From the outset, Metro Parks envisioned incorporating a living historical farm to educate visitors about 19th-century Ohio agriculture. The focal 212-acre parcel, purchased from the White family heirs in 1964, included historic structures that made it ideal for this purpose. The park's development preserved natural areas such as grasslands, wetlands, meadows, and forests while integrating interpretive elements. Upon opening, Slate Run quickly became a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Central to the park's identity is the Slate Run Living Historical Farm, which interprets life on a typical Ohio farm in the 1880s. The gothic revival farmhouse on the site was constructed in 1856 by owner Isaac Fridley and later restored by Metro Parks for historical accuracy. Visitors can explore interiors like the living room, parlor, and kitchen, where interpreters demonstrate period activities. The multi-bay barn, built in 1881 by Samuel Oman (the fourth owner), was meticulously restored with help from Amish carpenters. Heirloom animals such as Percheron horses, pigs, geese, and turkeys inhabit the farm, enhancing the immersive experience. The historical farmstead reflects a long lineage of ownership and agricultural use dating back to the early 19th century. Continuous farming on the land since 1805 made the site authentic for recreating late-19th-century practices, including grain harvesting and animal husbandry. Metro Parks focused on authenticity by restoring original buildings and introducing period-appropriate methods, such as horse-powered threshing machines from the late 1880s. The farm operates with volunteers and staff in period attire to portray daily rural life. This educational component has drawn school groups and families for decades. Today, Slate Run Metro Park spans about 1,705 acres and attracts roughly 250,000 visitors annually for its blend of natural preservation and historical interpretation. The park maintains diverse habitats supporting wildlife like nesting sandhill cranes and reintroduced northern bobwhite quail. Trails and open spaces offer opportunities for hiking and observation amid the preserved landscapes. The Living Historical Farm remains a crown jewel, continuing to teach about Ohio's agricultural heritage. Ongoing programs and restorations ensure the site's relevance for future generations. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Slate Run](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/SLR-parkmap@2x.gif). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Five Oaks, Sugar Maple, Covered Bridge, Shagbark, and Lake Trails. This will be around 4.5 to 5 miles. While Slate Run is moderately strenuous in a few places, it's generally a good place to hike and doesn't seem to wear people out. Some spots on the hike are unshaded, though, so be prepared for the possibility of some sun. I find Slate Run to be very underappreciated for the quality of its hiking. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet at the [Shady Grove Picnic Area](https://www.google.com/maps/place/39%C2%B045'30.1%22N+82%C2%B050'13.2%22W/@39.758347,-82.83701,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m4!3m3!8m2!3d39.758347!4d-82.83701?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDIxMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). You can use the map pin I've provided here; it's accurate. There's a latrine at Shady Grove, but there is no running water (no water fountains). We will pass a water fountain when we get to the Buzzard's Roost Picnic Area, although I can't guarantee this fountain won't be off for the winter. I'd recommend bringing some water just in case, at least for after the hike. I'd also recommend [hiking shoes](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D972KN3W) for this park. **After the Hike** Once we're finished at Slate Run, we'll head over to [Loose Rail Brewing](https://looserailbrewing.com/) for [drinks](https://looserailbrewing.com/canal-winchester-canal-winchester-loose-rail-brewing-drink-menu) and [food](https://looserailbrewing.com/canal-winchester-canal-winchester-loose-rail-brewing-food-menu). The brewery's actual address is [37 W Waterloo St, Canal Winchester, OH 43110](https://www.google.com/maps/place/37+W+Waterloo+St,+Canal+Winchester,+OH+43110/@39.8432511,-82.8071032,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88387be3ac496d83:0x23e8ee9d9391dd6b!8m2!3d39.8432511!4d-82.8071032!16s%2Fg%2F11cp8n8x1j?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDIxMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), and it's about 10-12 minutes from Slate Run. We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.

We will meet next to the restrooms at the [Big Meadows Picnic Area](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/HBK_Web_1980.png). They're all the way at the back of the park, and they can be found at coordinates [40°09'06.6"N 83°02'30.2"W](https://www.google.com/maps/place/40%C2%B009'06.6%22N+83%C2%B002'30.2%22W/@40.151828,-83.0423587,214m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m10!1m5!3m4!2zNDDCsDA5JzA4LjAiTiA4M8KwMDEnNDUuMSJX!8m2!3d40.1522222!4d-83.0291944!3m3!8m2!3d40.151827!4d-83.041715?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTIwNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) (near the playground and the zip line). We'll hike about 5 miles at [Highbanks Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/highbanks/) on the Dripping Rock and Overlook Trails. Afterward, we'll head over to [Olentangy River Brewing](https://www.olentangybrew.com/) for drinks, coffee, or food (their Sunday [food truck](https://www.olentangybrew.com/eventsandfood) is Venezuelan and always gets good reviews). The actual address of the brewery is [303 Green Meadows Dr S, 43035](https://www.google.com/maps/place/303+Green+Meadows+Dr+S,+Lewis+Center,+OH+43035/@40.1551938,-83.0144045,17.25z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x8838f395cef06c97:0xe407de61b3e30069!8m2!3d40.1551765!4d-83.0124352!16s%2Fg%2F11c26jc7j9?entry=ttu). If you can't make the hike, we should be there by noon. **How to find our starting point in Big Meadows:** If you are new to Highbanks, the Big Meadows picnic area is 1.5 miles into the park just after you turn into the park off of U.S. Route 23. That is, after you enter the park, drive a mile and a half into the park. You will come to a crosswalk with a yield sign in the middle of it (this is not to be confused with the first such crosswalk you come to just in front of the Nature Center, which you arrive at maybe a quarter of a mile into the park). Just after this second crosswalk, make a left. Then make another almost immediate left into the parking lot on your left. There you will see the jungle gym and the kiddie zip line to your left. I will be just in front of the restrooms just a bit further down from the jungle gym and picnic shelter; the restroom building will also be on your left.

Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area. If trail conditions are poor, we will use the Multipurpose Path.

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.

Let's meet at the Nature Center for an approximate 4-mile hike, followed by an optional lunch at Nomad or Liberty Tavern (both are on Polaris Parkway) - we can decide which tavern during the hike!