Hiking

**Acroyoga: Building Connection and Trust** with ***Jens Dube*** for **GBTQ men\*** **[BOOK A TICKET!](https://wearevillage.org/en/calendar/)** **Member: 10 €** **Regular: 15 €** Join our acroyoga workshop designed for GBTQ men. This practice combines yoga and acrobatics, offering partner and group exercises to help build trust and support among men. It's an opportunity to challenge yourself, connect with others, and explore new physical experiences. Whether you're seeking healing, connection, or just a new challenge, this workshop provides a supportive space. **General Information** • Wear comfortable clothes. • We’ll speak English and/or German, depending on the needs of the group. • This event is one of two free events included each month in the membership programme. 🔵 **Acroyoga: Verbindung und Vertrauen aufbauen** Mach mit bei unserem Acroyoga-Workshop, der speziell für GBTQ-Männer gestaltet ist. Diese Praxis kombiniert Yoga und Akrobatik und bietet Partner- und Gruppenübungen, um Vertrauen und Unterstützung unter Männern aufzubauen. Es ist eine Gelegenheit, Dich selbst herauszufordern, mit anderen in Kontakt zu treten und neue körperliche Erfahrungen zu machen. Egal, ob Du Heilung, Verbindung oder einfach nur eine neue Herausforderung suchst, dieser Workshop bietet einen unterstützenden Raum. **Hinweise** **•** Trage bequeme Kleidungen **•** Je nach Bedürfnissen der Gruppe werden wir Deutsch und/oder Englisch sprechen. **•** This event is one of two free events included each month in the membership programme.

**Anmeldung: info@amtshaus-buchholz.de** Wie funktioniert die Kamera an meinem Smartphone? Was bedeutet die Meldung auf meinem Handy oder Computer? Wie kann ich Filme, Musik, Podcasts, Fernsehprogramme oder Radio abspielen? Mit solchen und ähnlichen Fragen bist du bei diesem ehrenamtlichen Angebot des Nachbarschaftszentrums Amtshaus Buchholz genau richtig! Komm vorbei und wir finden gemeinsam Lösungen :) Anmeldung unter info@amtshaus-buchholz.de oder 030-4758472 [https://www.amtshaus-buchholz.de/angebote/digitale-unterstuetzung-smartphone-und-computer/](https://www.amtshaus-buchholz.de/angebote/digitale-unterstuetzung-smartphone-und-computer/)

**Massage Exchange for GBTQ men\*** **[Registration here](https://wearevillage.org/en/shop/massage-exchange/w10-2026/)** **Member: 15 €** **Non Member: 25 €** 🔵 Massage Exchange for **GBTQ men\*** is a monthly event that provides a safe and welcoming space to practice and experience full-body touch and massage techniques (using massage tables). Referencing the content from the “Soul of Skin” massage training, each evening offers participants the opportunity to either try out or deepen various massage styles, fostering a community of learning and support. Switching between giving and receiving roles often allows men\* to engage more deeply, experiencing greater impact and connection. The event provides both thematic suggestions for massage techniques and “best practices”, as well as enough freedom to use the space in mutual agreement with your partner\*. Whether you are new to massage or attentive touch, or an experienced practitioner, this event is an excellent opportunity to connect with others, improve your skills, and enjoy the many benefits of touch in a supportive environment. **Benefits of non-judgmental, full-body Touch** * Touch is essential for our mental health and prevents loneliness * Touch slows down, nourishes, and soothes * Touch can positively influence shame or negative body image * Touch promotes relaxation and regeneration * Touch communicates without words and creates a deeper connection to others * Touch stimulates the capacity for pleasure and empathy **General Information** * This format is for all queer men\* / queer masculinities interested in experiencing touch in a safe(r) setting. * Please pay attention to personal hygiene * Be comfortable with nudity. This event is sensual and may include genital touch but is not about sex. * Bring your own oil, a sheet and a towel to cover cushions, mats, or massage tables. * This event will be in German and/or English depending on participant needs. * This event is also available at a reduced member price – but not part of the two-free-monthly-events benefit. * Concession tickets upon written request to **[events@wearevillage.org]()** 🔵 **Massageaustausch für GBTQ Männer\*** **[Anmeldung](https://wearevillage.org/shop/massage-exchange/w10-2026/)** **Mitglieder: 15 €** **Nicht-Mitglieder: 25 €** Massage Exchange für GBTQ Männer\* ist ein monatliches Event, das einen sicheren und einladenden Raum bietet, um ganzkörperliche Berührung und Massagetechniken (unter Verwendung von Massageliegen) zu praktizieren und zu erleben. Bezugnehmend auf die Inhalte des “Soul of Skin Massagetrainings”, bietet jeder Abend den Teilnehmenden die Möglichkeit, entweder verschiedene Massage Stile zu probieren oder zu vertiefen, wodurch eine Gemeinschaft des Lernens und der Unterstützung entsteht. Der Wechsel zwischen gebender und nehmender Rolle erlaubt es oft Männern\*, sich tiefer einzulassen und dadurch mehr Wirkung und Verbindung zu erfahren. Es gibt thematisch sowohl Anregung für Massagegriffe und “best practices” als auch genug Freiheit, den Raum im gegenseitigen Einvernehmen mit deinem Partner\* zu nutzen. Egal, ob Du neu in der Massage oder aufmerksamen Berührung bist oder ein erfahrener Praktiker, dieses Event ist eine hervorragende Gelegenheit, Dich mit anderen zu verbinden, Deine Fähigkeiten zu verbessern und die vielen Vorteile von Berührung in einer unterstützenden Umgebung zu erfahren und zu genießen. **Vorteile einer wertfreien, ganzkörperlichen Berührung** * Berührung ist essentiell für unsere seelische Gesundheit und beugt Vereinsamung vor * Berührung verlangsamt, nährt und beruhigt * Berührung kann Scham oder negative Körperbilder positiv beeinflussen * Berührung fördert Entspannung und Erholung * Berührung kommuniziert ohne Worte und schafft eine tiefere Verbindung zu anderen * Berührung stimuliert Genuß- und Empathiefähigkeit **Hinweise** * Dieses Format ist für alle queeren Männer\*/Männlichkeiten, die Berührung in einer einvernehmlichen, unterstützenden Atmosphäre erfahren möchten. * Bitte lege Wert auf persönliche Hygiene. * Du solltest einen relativ entspannten Umgang mit Nacktheit haben. Diese Veranstaltung ist sinnlich und kann genitale Berührungen beinhalten, aber es geht nicht um Sex. * Bringe dein eigenes Öl und zum Abdecken von Kissen, Matten oder Massageliegen ein Laken und ein Handtuch mit. * Das Event wird je nach Teilnehmer\*bedürfnissen auf Deutsch und/oder Englisch sein. * Dieses Event ist auch zu einem ermäßigten Mitgliederpreis erhältlich – aber kein Bestandteil der zwei kostenlosen monatlichen Mitgliederveranstaltungen. * Ermäßigter Zugang möglich auf schriftliche Anfrage an **[events@wearevillage.org]()**

Join us for a 6-7 km run. We start at Espresso House at Oranienburger Tor station and run towards and along the river. We turn back after about 3.5km. We will be at a steady pace between 6 and 6.30 minutes per km. 🥳 We will stand in front of the Espresso House, opposite of Medios Apotheke. We will leave at 7am sharp so please be there on time. Liability: By signing up for this event and participating at this Workout you accept that applicable by law the organizer will not be liable for any damages or injuries arising out of your participation.

**Join us for outdoor grass volleyball in Hasenheide park!** This event is not suitable for complete beginners. We play with two nets. The "chill court" is for mixed-level play with 3v3 up to 5v5. The "competitive court" is for higher-level 3v3 or 2v2 play with beach rules. Be sure to wear suitable sports clothing and perhaps bring a drink. There are no facilities such as changing rooms and showers in the park. A nearby public toilet is also available, but it might be closed, dirty, or not have toilet paper. **Location**: We play in the narrow clearing, located between the two paths in the center of Hasenheide park. Updates will be posted in the WhatsApp group, which you can join via [https://tinyurl.com/ParkVolley](https://tinyurl.com/ParkVolley) **RSVP**: Put yourself on the waitlist, even if other people are already on there. The waitlist is not chronological, so even if there are 30 people on there, you still have a chance! If you get a spot, you will be moved to the attending list and notified by Meetup. This is a free event with limited space. **If you can't make it, promptly update your RSVP to NO** so others can take your place. If you do not show up or cancel last minute, you will be marked as a no-show, reducing your chances of getting off the waitlist in the future. **Payment:** This event is free, but you are invited to make a 2 EUR donation towards equipment. **Attending**: Do not join if you have an infectious disease. You need to be on the attendee list to attend; **being on the waitlist is not sufficient**. Do not bring friends that are not on the attendee list. **Showing up without having a valid RSVP will get you banned**. **Safety**: Mind the terrain. The grass might be uneven and contain items such as bottle caps. It is not suitable for diving or playing like on a beach. Be careful not to twist your ankle. Keep an eye on your belongings since we are in a public park. We do *not* have a full first aid kit available. Please inform the organizer of any medical conditions that might require attention during the event. Some things you *might* want to bring: \* Drink \* Snacks \* Insect spray \* Sunscreen \* Toilet paper if you wish to use the public toilet Join our WhatsApp community via [https://tinyurl.com/ParkVolley](https://tinyurl.com/ParkVolley) Follow us on Insta at [https://www.instagram.com/berlinvolleyball](https://www.instagram.com/berlinvolleyball) Pictures might be taken and shared publicly, such as on Meetup or Instagram. You can opt out by letting the organizer know you do not wish to be photographed. By RSVP'ing to this event, you acknowledge and agree to the following: Participation in this volleyball event is at your own risk. The organizer is not responsible for any injury, loss, or damage sustained during the event, whether caused by negligence or otherwise. You are aware of the inherent risks involved in park volleyball and voluntarily assume these risks. You agree to hold the organizer harmless from any claims, liabilities, or expenses arising from your participation, including any medical costs. Share anonymous feedback with the organizer via https://www.admonymous.co/entropy

**Bitte nur verbindliche Zusagen. Teilnahmegebühr vor Ort: 5 EUR (in bar)** **Echte Männerfreundschaften bringen Dich im Leben voran:** Freunde, Tiefe, Ehrlichkeit & Deine Ziele erreichen. Auch im Beruf, auch mit Frauen & Beziehungen. . Menschen sind keine Einzelkämpfer. Menschen funktionieren zusammen. In einem Raum nur mit Männern kannst Du ganz Du sein. . Ich biete einen solchen Raum. . **Das kannst Du erwarten:** * Du lernst andere Männer kennen, die auch Lust auf diesen Austausch haben * Wir reden über Freundschaft, Mann-Sein, das Leben, Probleme, Ziele & Frauen * Ihr verabredet Euch für Unternehmungen & zum Chillen . . Wir werden bis zu 8 Männer sein. Mehr nicht. Es gibt dann eine Telegram-Gruppe für alle Männer, die bei dieser Art Treffen dabei waren. . . Drei Regeln für das Treffen: 1. **Wenn Du zusagst, kommst Du.** 2. **Sei pünktlich.** 3. **Was wir besprechen, bleibt unter uns.** . Falls Du noch Absagen musst, tu das bis mittags 12 Uhr mit einer kurzen Nachricht an mich. So wie Freunde das machen würden. . Bring Dir gern ein **alkoholfreies** Getränk & Snack für den Abend mit. Gern auch etwas, was Du mit den anderen teilen kannst. . . **👱🏼‍♂️ Über mich:** * Betreiber der Seite [www.abenteuer-freundschaft.de](www.abenteuer-freundschaft.de) * Ausgebildeter NLP-Trainer ([DVNLP](https://www.dvnlp.de/)) & Coach * Jahrelang selbstständiger Unternehmensberater * Eigene Vita: Von schüchternen Jungen zum fitten Mann * Großer Artikel über: [Freunde finden](https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/freunde-finden) * Mehr über mich: [LinkedIn - Georg Preller](https://www.linkedin.com/in/georg-preller/) . **👋🏽 Get in touch & stay in touch:** **✈ Telegram-Gruppe für Männer: Nur auf dem Treffen.** **✈ Telegram-Kanal Freundschaft: [t.me/abenteuer_freundschaft](http://t.me/abenteuer_freundschaft)** für Events, Workshops & Neuste Erkenntnisse aus der Freundschaftsforschung (Überschriften) **✉ Freundschafts-Newsletter:** [https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/newsletter](https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/newsletter) Im Newsletter gibt es alle 4 Wochen das Neuste aus der Freundschaftsforschung. **🔥 6 Zutaten großartiger Freundschaften** "Die 6 Zutaten großartiger Freundschaften" beschreibt, was eine gute Freundschaft wirklich ausmacht. Du erhältst das eBook zurzeit kostenlos mit dem Newsletter: [https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/newsletter](https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/newsletter)

Need a mid-week pick-me-up? Join us for **Sip Happens!** this week at Electric Social, where good beer and great games come together for a fun and fantastic social night! Whether you're a board game pro or just looking for a chill night out and a fun way to socialize, there's something for everyone. Grab a beer (or cider, or wine, or even a tea!), **pick (or bring) a game,** and meet some new friends as we roll dice, play cards, and laugh the night away. From classics like Catan and Scrabble to party favorites like Cards Against Humanity, we’ve got it all. Coming straight from work? No problem...the kitchen serves awesome food as well! 😉 So, round up your mates or come solo—either way, you’ll leave with new friends and fun memories. Cheers to making midweek nights something to look forward to! 🍺🎉 We always have several organisers there (male and female), so come say hello to us! We care to make sure that everyones enjoys themselves and we have **no tolerance for bad behaviour or creepiness.** **Follow us on Insta:** @siphappens.berlin **Join us on Telegram:** t.me/siphappens_berlin **👉 Other important notes:** \- 🍸 The locations we visit are bars and clubs\, they are businesses and we are able to keep these events free ONLY if people buy drinks\. Please respect the locations and the event by making purchases \- 🦹‍♂️ Remember to keep an eye on your belongings and prioritize your own well\-being\. We are not responsible for any lost items or personal issues\. \- 📷 By attending our events\, you consent to being photographed or filmed\. Photos and videos taken during the events may be shared on our social media\. If you do not wish to appear in the photos or if you appear in a photo that we post that you would like removed\, please send us a private message as soon as possible on Instagram \(@siphappens\.berlin\)

This pilgrimage hike leads us through a water-rich landscape of canals, lakes, and open paths, gradually transitioning into the parks and historic spaces of Potsdam. As we walk, we explore an invitation that leaves room for openness: *What happens when I allow questions, doubt, and uncertainty to be present?* 📅 **Date & Time** * **Date:** Saturday, March 7, 2026 * **Start:** 9:51 AM at Bahnhof Marquardt *(Travel via RE1 from Berlin to Potsdam and RB21 from Potsdam)* * **End:** Potsdam Hauptbahnhof *(Return via RE1 or S-Bahn)* 🗺️ **Route Highlights** * Komoot: [https://www.komoot.com/de-de/tour/2771807835](https://www.komoot.com/de-de/tour/2771807835) * Walking through canal and lake landscapes * Field paths and suburban walking routes * Castles, villas, parks, and waterfront paths * Beaches and swimming spots along the way *(optional dip)* * Arrival through green spaces into Potsdam’s old town * Route suitable for beginners 🤔 **Why This Hike?** We often feel pressure to have answers: to know where we’re going, what we believe, and what the next step should be. This pilgrimage offers a different approach. Instead of searching for solutions, we walk *with* our questions. This pilgrimage is an opportunity to slow down, reconnect with nature, and reflect on life’s important questions. We’ll walk at a relaxed pace, share thoughts, and take time for moments of silence – about 30 minutes to an hour *–* to listen to nature and our inner voices. 🔔 **What to know & bring** * The route is suitable for beginners, but requires basic walking fitness. * Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy walking or hiking shoes. * Bring enough food and water for the entire day. * There will be a longer break at a swimming spot. If you’d like to swim, bring swimwear and a towel. * Please remember your public transport ticket for arrival and departure. 📩 **Questions & Registration** If you have questions or need help with planning your trip, feel free to reach out. You’re also welcome to join our WhatsApp group for updates and connection before the hike. Contact Pilgrim Guide Alexander via WhatsApp (+49 157 57652601) or email (alexander.steinfeldt@outlook.com). **Waitlist = You're in! 😊** Currently, only 10 members can officially register on Meetup (due to the restrictions of the free version). However, you’re welcome to join the hike by joining the [Whatsapp group](https://www.alexander-steinfeldt.de/hikes/berlin-pilgrims/) for this event.

Join us for a special women-only hike to celebrate International Women’s Day! 100% of the proceeds EUROS will go to SOLWODI, an organization dedicated to helping migrant and refugee women in crisis. **[Click here](https://womensdayhiking.eventbrite.de) for more information:**

***Discover the mystical sunken birch forest, the valley and its unspoilt nature while hiking along river Briese.*** **HOW DO I JOIN THIS EVENT?** Click on link below to get complete info and to sign up for this event by getting your ticket. [https://Briesetal-14Feb2026.eventbrite.de](https://Briesetal-14Feb2026.eventbrite.de) **WHY GO?** The Briesetal is one of Brandenburgs most scenic valleys, formed by river Briese. The quiet nature preservation area is home to mischievous beavers whose dams created a sunken birch forest. The valley is still dominated by unspoilt nature, seemingly untouched by humans. It's only a 40 minute train ride north of Berlin, making it the perfect day trip getaway from the city's hustling. Following the meandering river we traverse the mystical forest, walk on wooden planks through moors and marshes and explore natural habitats and endemic wildlife. On this hike, immerse yourself into nature’s wonder! Have you ever observed the tiny details of the outdoors? Such as the intricate veins on the back of a leaf? Or the delicate edges of flowers’ petals? Or the movement of a cheeky squirrel? On this walk, you will have the chance to truly connect with the natural world around you. No experience or preparation is needed, just your curiosity. You will be guided through every step of the way. ### **TRIP DETAILS** **Distance:** *13 km walking, 7 hours from start to closing, multiple break times* **Hiking Difficulty:** *Easy – walking on marked paths / dirt roads, mostly flat terrain, relaxed pace* **Kid Friendly:** Yes **Pet Friendly:** Yes **What is included?** * Community leader & guide for the entire duration. * Guided hike * Access to google photos album dedicated for this trip for sharing all your amazing pics & videos from the trip. * Access to a WhatsApp group for confirmed participants. **Note:** Please contact us immediately if you do not have WhatsApp & we can make alternate arrangements from our end to ensure you do not miss out on any communication. 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)

I invite you to join my 9 km hike in beautiful Alt-Schmöckwitz, followed by a short guided meditation in nature.The meditation is completely optional — if you don’t want to participate, you can take the tram back (the station is about a 7-minute walk away). The topic of the meditation is self-love (beginner-friendly) — just a gentle reminder of how gorgeous and valuable you are. Please bring something to sit on (a blanket, towel, etc.). **Meeting point:** S-Bahnhof Grünau, tram stop (Tram 68 towards Alt-Schmöckwitz) **Meeting time:** 11:15 **Ticket**: Deutschlandticket or Berlin AB **Organizing fee: Participation is free. If you enjoy the event, I’d truly appreciate a small donation via PayPal habibuscha@gmail.com to support my work.** ⚠️⚠️⚠️**Please note:** After 2 no-shows or cancellations less than 24 hours before the event, you will be removed from the group and will not be able to participate in future events.

**Discover a diverse landscape of open fields, lakes, forests & creeks while listening to the birds singing and the water murmuring.** Check this Reels [Click here ](https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cw8Fb3MI0Bj/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) **WHY GO?** Join us as we explore the ancient landscape of Biesenthaler Becken, a region well-known for its rich biodiversity and breathtaking scenery. Take a break from the humdrum of city life and immerse yourself into the serenity of sprawling forests, meadows with wildflowers, and the company of little forest animals and migratory birds. The trail starts from the former agricultural town of Biesenthal where you will meander through beautiful open fields with views of the Streesee lake before stopping for a picnic lunch break. Then, you will continue on towards the Biesenthaler basin to explore its glacial landscape dating back to the Ice Age. Enjoy a photo stop at the stunning Lake Hellsee and finally, toast to a great hike at a beer garden on the banks of the Obersee Lake. **HOW DO I JOIN THIS EVENT?** Click on link below to get complete info and to sign up for this event by getting your ticket. [https://biesenthaler-becken-hike-8feb2026.eventbrite.de](https://biesenthaler-becken-hike-8feb2026.eventbrite.de) ### **TRIP DETAILS** **Meeting location & time:** * Option A: [Berlin Central Train Station (Berlin Hbf) ](https://maps.app.goo.gl/rmtWJoJyzsJ8CLgm6 "https://maps.app.goo.gl/rmtWJoJyzsJ8CLgm6")at 9:30 am * Option B: [Biesenthal Bahnhof ](https://maps.app.goo.gl/BP6msv5NN99yBNva8 "https://maps.app.goo.gl/BP6msv5NN99yBNva8")at 10:45 am **Finishing location & time:** * Option A: [Berlin Central Train Station (Berlin Hbf)](https://maps.app.goo.gl/BuF3N1q6mh5FFhf69 "https://maps.app.goo.gl/BuF3N1q6mh5FFhf69") at 5:30pm * Option B: [Bus stop Lanke, Dorf](https://maps.app.goo.gl/z7rxMV2is6DNEEMK7 "https://maps.app.goo.gl/z7rxMV2is6DNEEMK7") at 4pm **Distance:** 13 km walking, 5 hours from start to closing, multiple break times **Hiking Difficulty:** Easy – walking on marked paths / dirt roads, mostly flat terrain, relaxed pace **Kid Friendly:** Yes **Price:** Starting from **11 euros** **What is included?** * Community leader & guide for the entire duration. * Transportation to and from Berlin (based on the ticket option selected). * Access to google photos album dedicated for this trip for sharing all your amazing pics & videos from the trip. * Access to a WhatsApp group for confirmed participants. **Note:** Please contact us immediately if you do not have WhatsApp & we can make alternate arrangements from our end to ensure you do not miss out on any communication. 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)

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.

**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.

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!