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Hiking Events Today

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Hike to Götz🌳🌲with panoramic tower 🗼 and possible bakery at the end 🥐 ☕
Hike to Götz🌳🌲with panoramic tower 🗼 and possible bakery at the end 🥐 ☕
2 EURO DONATION FEE PER PERSON IS REQUIRED (on site, in cash), to pay back the Meetup subscription fees and support my Events. READ THE DESCRIPTION WITH THE INFO (IMPORTANT). WHATSAPP LINK BELOW 📳​ We take the RE1 train that arrives to Götz at 10,50 🚉😀: https://maps.app.goo.gl/c46xqArPdU4Fjtzx9 The train stops in several Berlin stations, as well as in Potsdam. I attach to the images screenshots that show the stations with the time 🚉⏱️ FYI: I get on the train in Werder Havel Once we reach Götz, we start our Hike, following this path: [https://www.komoot.com/tour/2175122193](https://www.komoot.com/tour/2175122193) Along our route there is a splendid panoramic tower 🗼 (see image attached). Bring your own food🍔 and drinks🥤. Route distance: 15 kms Pace: about 14 minutes per km (know by experience with my events) Breaks: 2 (about 1/3 and 2/3 of the way through) The Hike will end reaching the station of Groß Kreuz 🙂 In Groß Kreuz one train per hour is available to come back to Berlin (minute 15 of each hour). We can spontaneously decide to stay together longer at the end, going to some bakery close to Groß Kreuz station 🥐 ☕🥐 ☕ Of course it depends how we are synchronized with the next train. People can decide if stay longer together or shorter, taking the first available train to come back. Everyone is free 🙂🙂🙂 I do not provide a "personal support" for people who do not take the indicated train. You are responsible to check for the weather and decide if come or not. Thanks for understanding. If you have to contact me, make it via Whatsapp, not here on Meetup. WHATSAPP COMMUNITY 💬 to find each other (join it, we use this group to find and synchronize us, as well as post photos) [https://docs.google.com/document/d/157uLVXObKt1a4NqqvPa09NJW-050YBwHLW-7DbOD8R8/](https://docs.google.com/document/d/157uLVXObKt1a4NqqvPa09NJW-050YBwHLW-7DbOD8R8/)
Tree Blossom Hike: Panoramaweg to Werder (15 km)
Tree Blossom Hike: Panoramaweg to Werder (15 km)
Please note: This hike includes **at least three stops of roughly 30 to 45 minutes** at farms and gardens that mostly sell food, coffee, cake and of course - fruit wine! Therefore, expect it to last longer than usual hikes. Not far from the starting point, the bus stop "Plessower Eck", the first garden awaits us. We then continue along the Panoramaweg, discovering more of the local delicacies. Arriving on the pitoresque former fisherman's island of Werder, we explore the old town from where we head to Werder station to take the train back to Berlin. Meet us in the **first car of the train RE1**, departing from **Alexanderplatz station, platform 2, at 10:54 AM,** arriving at Potsdam main station at 11:29. **Please arrive early at Alexanderplatz station, as ongoing construction work may cause delays or disruptions when accessing the platform**. The RE1 also stops at **Berlin Ostkreuz at 10:44 and Berlin Hauptbahnhof at 10:59**, along with other stations. Unless you are subscribed to the Deutschlandticket, you'll need a ticket to Plessower Eck and back from Werder(Havel) Please note: * As a grown-up, you are responsible for yourself. * **Bring a plastic cup (no glass) for the fruit wine!** * Come prepared for cold and windy weather. * Wear appropriate footwear, we may come across some muddy sections. * Forecasts predict low chance of rain, but you never know... * Bring enough water, food and some cash with you. * Please be fair and only RSVP if you are sure you can make it and update if your plans change. See you on Saturday!
Cherry Blossoms hike 🌸
Cherry Blossoms hike 🌸
Spring has finally arrived, bringing with it a stunning wave of pink blossoms 🌸 that breathe new life into the city after the long, gray winter. The streets are now filled with vibrant colors, and it’s the perfect moment to enjoy relaxed walks under the soft canopy of cherry blossoms. Let’s take this chance to step outside, soak in the beauty of the season, and share meaningful moments with new people. Join us for a cheerful day of exploring, connecting, and celebrating nature in full bloom. * Alpengipfel Marienfelde * Japan Eck * Mauerweg with TV Asahi Cherry **Meeting point: 12:30 pm – At the S- Marienfelde**, **Outside Station.** Hike/Walk - 10Km from starting to end with multiple short breaks. Hiking level - Easy (Mostly flat trail) **Price: 3 Euro** * To cover the meetup platform subscription fees and organising fees. **What to wear or bring:** * Comfortable footwear/hiking shoes, * Appropriate clothing as per weather (expecting to be sunny), * Water and snacks. **Cancellation:** * Non-Refundable event. * Full refund if the event is cancelled Meanwhile you can follow us on Instagram and checkout our previous trips and hikes : [Travel Tribe](https://www.instagram.com/traveltribe_berlin/) * Participants are responsible for their own safety during the event. * By attending Travel Tribe events, you consent to photos possibly being shared on social media. If you prefer not to appear in photos, please inform the host.
Cherry Blossoms Walk - Berlin Wall Trail [13.5 km] 🌸
Cherry Blossoms Walk - Berlin Wall Trail [13.5 km] 🌸
Hey folks! 🙌 This Saturday, we’re heading out for a scenic walk along the historic Berlin Wall Trail to catch the stunning Japanese Cherry Blossoms in full bloom! 🎒 📍 **Meeting Point:** [S Schichauweg](https://maps.app.goo.gl/eAcoq7pGqC3z4RWK8) 📆 **Date:** Saturday, 25th of April 🕣 **Time:** 10:00 AM (15 minutes catch up window) 🗺 **Tour Link:** https://www.komoot.com/tour/2898415479 **The Experience** Get ready to witness one of Berlin’s most beautiful spring transformations! We will be walking along the TV Asahi Kirschblütenallee , a stretch of the former "death strip" that was transformed into a sea of pink by over 1,000 cherry trees—a gift from Japan to celebrate German reunification. Our path follows the Berliner Mauerweg, blending poignant history with natural beauty. We’ll wander through the pink tunnels of blossoms, open fields, and quiet stretches of the southern city border. It’s the perfect mix of historical reflection and springtime vibes. Join us for a relaxed day of photography, fresh air, and good company under the petals! 🚆 **Transportation** Meeting at S Schichauweg (S2 line). *Outbound:* The S2 runs regularly from the city center. Check your local connection to arrive at S Schichauweg by 10:00 AM. *Return:* The hike is a point-to-point style and we will end at S Osdorferstraße **Ticket:** Deutschland Ticket or VBB Zone AB. 🌤 **Weather & Gear Forecast:** Spring can be unpredictable! Wear layers and bring a light rain jacket just in case. **Footwear:** Comfortable walking shoes or light hikers are perfect for this terrain. **Provisions:** Bring plenty of water, sunscreen and some snacks/sandwiches. We’ll find a nice spot among the trees for a picnic break! See y'all on Saturday! 🌸✨ **Disclaimer:** Please note that all participants are responsible for their own health and safety during the hike. If you have any medical conditions or allergies, make sure to bring any necessary medications with you. The organizers are not liable for any injuries, health issues, or personal losses that may occur during the event. By joining the hike, you acknowledge that you are participating at your own risk.
Hike & dine - Asparagus in Beelitz [14km]
Hike & dine - Asparagus in Beelitz [14km]
Cherry Blossoms hike 🌸
Cherry Blossoms hike 🌸
Havel Heights: Hilly Forest Hike to Berlin’s Best Viewpoints
Havel Heights: Hilly Forest Hike to Berlin’s Best Viewpoints
***Scenic 15 km hike in Grunewald: climb Grunewald Tower, follow Havel forest trails, and end at Drachenberg with panoramic views over Berlin.*** **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://urbanaturetravel.com/event/havel-heights-viewpoints-25apr2026](https://urbanaturetravel.com/event/havel-heights-viewpoints-25apr2026) **SPECIAL OFFER FOR NEW USERS** * 10% New User Discount using promo code: **MEETUP10** * Valid for this trip or any other trips available on our website. **WHY GO?** Berlin is often thought of as a flat city, but Grunewald hides a surprising landscape of wooded hills and sweeping viewpoints. This hike follows sandy woodland trails and quiet paths along the Havel River, gradually climbing through the forest to reach some of Berlin’s best vantage points. We’ll climb the steps of the historic Grunewaldturm before stopping for a relaxed break at Kaisergarten am Grunewaldturm, a traditional beer garden overlooking the river. From there, we continue through the forest and up to the summit of Drachenberg, where wide views open out across the Grunewald and the distant Berlin skyline. It’s a chance to leave the busy streets behind, enjoy some fresh forest air, and spend the day exploring one of Berlin’s most beautiful landscapes with a group of curious explorers. **WHAT ARE SOME OF THE HIGHLIGHTS?** **Grunewald:** Berlin’s largest forest, filled with sandy trails, glacial hills, and quiet lakes. A favourite escape for those looking for nature just outside the city. **Havel River:** One of the major rivers of the Berlin-Brandenburg region. Here the river widens into large lakes and peaceful bays surrounded by forest. **Grunewaldturm:** Built in 1899, this historic observation tower rises above the forest overlooking the Havel. Climb the steps to enjoy wide views over the lakes, woodland, and the distant Berlin skyline. **Kaisergarten am Grunewaldturm:** A classic German beer garden beside the tower. With views across the river, it’s the perfect place for a relaxed break, a drink, or a snack. **Drachenberg:** One of Berlin’s best viewpoints. From the top you’ll see a sweeping panorama across the Grunewald, Teufelsberg, and the Berlin skyline — a memorable way to finish the hike. **WHAT IS THE PLAN?** * **10:30 –** Meet at Nikolassee Station and kick-off with brief introductions before starting our hike into Grunewald Forest. * **11:30 –** Continue hiking the hilly forest trails along the Havel, taking breaks as desired at any of the numerous benches with beautiful lake views. * **14:30 –** Arrive at the Kaisergarten am Grunewaldturm Biergarten for a well-deserved lunch and climb the Grunewaldturm. * **15:30 –** Continue hiking through the peaceful Grunewald Forest and over Teufelsberg towards Drachenberg. * **18:15 –** Reach the top of Drachenberg and take a break to soak up the panoramic views. * **19:00 –** Walk down Drachenberg towards the end station. * **19:20 –** Arrive at Heerstraße Station to conclude our adventure. **WHAT IS INCLUDED?** * Community leader & guide for the entire duration * 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. **OPTIONAL ADD-ONS:** * Entry to the Grunewaldturm viewing platform is optional. Participants who wish to climb the tower can purchase their own ticket at the entrance. Please carry cash of 5 euros for tickets at the entrance. **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. **FUTURE TRIP UPDATES:** 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)

Hiking Events This Week

Discover what is happening in the next few days

Relaxed Sunday afternoon hike to テレビ朝日さくら平和通り (9 km)
Relaxed Sunday afternoon hike to テレビ朝日さくら平和通り (9 km)
According to the [Kirschblütenticker](https://www.teltow.de/seite/847347/kirschbl%C3%BCtenticker-2026.html), the Japanese cherry trees in Teltow will be in full bloom very soon - so let's see them! **How to get there** * Take the S2 to the S-Bahn station Schichauweg, arrival 16:02. This is where the hike will start. We will meet on the platform. * The hike will end at the cherry trees in Teltow, from where you can take the S-Bahn or a bus back home. **For latecomers** * I may share my position via Google Maps, so you'd have a fair chance to find us. * You can also join us at the bus stop Klausenburger Pfad. We will come there at around 16:45. This would effectively cut the route short by about 3 km. **You may want to bring** * An appropriate ticket (Deutschlandticket or Berlin AB) * Sun protection * Something to eat and drink **Full route** * [View in Naviki](https://t1p.de/dqchw) * [Download as GPX/KML](https://limewire.com/?referrer=cwnprhcil4)
12km Hike - Cherry Blossom Avenue & Canal loop
12km Hike - Cherry Blossom Avenue & Canal loop
## The Route Hey guys, its cherry blossom season so this **Sunday** morning there’s a hike planned around Cherry Blossom Avenue & the nearby canals. 🌞 The weather looks dry and sunny! 🥾 The hike is around 12km long(3 hours) + breaks. (So bring some snacks!) 🚂 We’ll meet at 11:03am at Lichterfelde Ost station. (The S25 S-bahn arrives then) More information on the route here: [https://www.komoot.com/tour/2874954928?share_token=aLUkiu46d7f3dd6RRK5Dvy4EkNe2fr0ytJxCx7F8DNVMo1SIqp&ref=wtd](https://www.komoot.com/tour/2874954928?share_token=aLUkiu46d7f3dd6RRK5Dvy4EkNe2fr0ytJxCx7F8DNVMo1SIqp&ref=wtd) **How to spot me on the day:** I'll be wearing a red jacket and I have glasses :)
Outdoor – Berlin Wall Trail – Section 14 From Gropiusstadt to Johannisthal
Outdoor – Berlin Wall Trail – Section 14 From Gropiusstadt to Johannisthal
**Outdoor – Berlin Wall Trail – Section 14 From Gropiusstadt to Johannisthal** with ***Harms*** and ***Thomas*** **Start: 11:00 a.m. at Lipschitzallee subway station (U7)** **LGBTQIA +** **[Free with registration](https://wearevillage.org/en/shop/village-outdoor/w17-2026)** Hike along the Berlin Wall Trail, past fields and nature, with a view from the Dörferblick viewpoint. Along the way, we pass historical sites and the Rudow-Altglienicke Landscape Park. The approximately 12 km long tour ends at Stubenrauchstraße. In April, we’ll set off together on the Berlin Wall Trail – along Berlin’s southeasternmost city limits. Our starting point is the Lipschitzallee U-Bahn station. From there, the trail leads us first through a quiet residential area and out to the Berlin Wall Trail. Soon, the view opens up across the vast fields in the south of the city – and with a bit of luck, we’ll be accompanied by the rapeseed blossoms, which bathe the landscape in a vibrant yellow. A special highlight awaits us at Dörferblick: The verdant hill rises approximately 86 meters and rewards us with an impressive view as far as Großziethen and the BER Airport. We continue to the former border crossing at Waltersdorfer Straße – a historically significant site from the time of German division. Afterward, we’ll enjoy nature in the Rudow-Altglienicke Landscape Park before crossing the Rudower Höhe along the motorway. After crossing the Teltow Canal, we continue our hike along the former border strip between the water and the road to our destination at the Stubenrauchstraße bridge. Since there are no places to stop for refreshments along the way, please bring enough food and drinks for a picnic. **What’s Village Outdoor?** Village outdoor Events are monthly meetups for the we are village community and their friends to enjoy outdoor activities in and around Berlin. Activities include forest hikes, bike tours, swimming in lakes, sightseeing, and kayaking. Each month features a free and easy walk or hike in Berlin or its surrounding areas, accessible by public transport. 🔵 **Outdoor – Berliner Mauerweg – Abschnitt 14 Von der Gropiusstadt bis Johannisthal** mit ***Harms*** und ***Thomas*** **Start:** 11 Uhr, U-Bahnhof Lipschitzallee (U7), Vorplatz Rückfahrt: Bus M11, 172 Massantebrücke Fur **LGBTQIA+** **[Kostenlos mit Anmeldung](https://wearevillage.org/shop/village-outdoor/w17-2026/)** Wanderung entlang des Berliner Mauerwegs vorbei an Feldern und Natur mit Aussicht von der Anhöhe Dörferblick. Unterwegs passieren wir historische Orte und den Landschaftspark Rudow-Altglienicke. Die ca. 12 km lange Tour endet an der Stubenrauchstraße Im April machen wir uns gemeinsam auf den Weg entlang des Berliner Mauerwegs – entlang der südöstlichsten Stadtgrenze Berlins. Unser Startpunkt ist der U-Bahnhof Lipschitzallee. Von dort führt uns der Weg zunächst durch ein ruhiges Wohngebiet hinaus zum Berliner Mauerweg. Schon bald öffnet sich der Blick über die weiten Felder im Süden der Stadt – und mit etwas Glück begleitet uns die Rapsblüte, die die Landschaft in ein leuchtendes Gelb taucht. Ein besonderes Highlight erwartet uns am Dörferblick: Die begrünte Anhöhe ragt etwa 86 Meter empor und belohnt uns mit einer beeindruckenden Aussicht bis nach Großziethen und zum Flughafen BER. Weiter geht es zum ehemaligen Grenzübergang an der Waltersdorfer Straße Grenzübergang – ein geschichtsträchtiger Ort aus der Zeit der deutschen Teilung. Anschließend genießen wir die Natur im Landschaftspark Rudow-Altglienicke, bevor wir entlang der Autobahn die Rudower Höhe passieren. Nach der Überquerung des Teltowkanal wandern wir auf dem ehemaligen Grenzstreifen zwischen Wasser und Straße weiter bis zu unserem Ziel an der Brücke Stubenrauchstraße. Da es unterwegs keine Einkehrmöglichkeiten gibt, bringt euch bitte ausreichend Proviant für ein Picknick mit.
Fairytale Forest: Hike through the mystical landscape of Briesetal
Fairytale Forest: Hike through the mystical landscape of Briesetal
***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://urbanaturetravel.com/event/briesetal-fairytale-forest-25apr2026](https://urbanaturetravel.com/event/briesetal-fairytale-forest-25apr2026) **SPECIAL OFFER FOR NEW USERS** * 10% New User Discount using promo code: **MEETUP10** * Valid for this trip or any other trips available on our website. **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 and Guide for the entire duration. * Guided hike. * Access to Google photos album dedicated for this trip for sharing all your amazing pictures and videos from the trip. * Access to a WhatsApp group for the confirmed participants. **Note:** Please contact us immediately if you do not have WhatsApp and we can make alternate arrangements from our end to ensure you do not miss out on any communication. **FOR FUTURE TRIP UPDATES:** 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)
[19K] Gorinsee & Schönower Heide
[19K] Gorinsee & Schönower Heide
Spreewald Canoe Tour: Discover the UNESCO biosphere reserve on water
Spreewald Canoe Tour: Discover the UNESCO biosphere reserve on water
***Canoe around the Spreewald river delta. Charismatic, quiet and sprinkled with the occasional beer garden. Enjoy nature at the UNESCO reserve.*** **HOW DO I JOIN THIS TRIP?** Click on link below to get complete info and to sign up for this event by getting your ticket. [https://urbanaturetravel.com/event/spreewald-canoe-26apr2026](https://urbanaturetravel.com/event/spreewald-canoe-26apr2026) **SPECIAL OFFER FOR NEW USERS** * 10% New User Discount using promo code: **MEETUP10** * Valid for this trip or any other trips available on our website. **WHY GO?** Join us for an unforgettable adventure in the beautiful **Lübbenau/Spreewald** region, just a stone's throw away from the vibrant city of Berlin, where we'll embark on a thrilling canoe (mix of Canoe's or Kayak) tour through the **UNESCO biosphere reserve**. Immerse yourself in the untouched nature as we paddle through the winding waterways, surrounded by lush greenery and enchanting landscapes. This is a unique opportunity to explore the hidden gems of the **Spreewald** region, known for its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. During the tour, our experienced guides will share fascinating stories and insights about the area, making this journey not just visually stunning but also intellectually enriching. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for a refreshing escape from the city, this canoe tour is perfect for everyone. Don't miss out on this incredible experience! Book your spot now and get ready to paddle your way through the wonders of the **Spreewald** biosphere reserve. **TRIP DETAILS** **Meeting Location and Time:** * **Option A - Joining from Berlin:** Meet in Berlin Central Train Station (Berlin Hbf) at 8:00 am. * **Option B - Joining at Lübbenau:** Meet outside Lübbenau Train Station at 9:30 am. **Note:** The exact platform in Berlin Hbf will be advised the day before the trip in the WhatsApp group for this trip. Please advise if you do not have WhatsApp and can make alternate arrangement to keep you in the loop. **Finishing Location and Time:** * **Option A - Finishing in Berlin:** Berlin Hbf at 7:00pm * **Option B - Finishing in Lübbenau:** Lübbenau Train Station at 5:00 pm **Distance:** 6 km of canoeing, 7 hours from start to closing, incl., around 3 - 4 hours of paddling and multiple breaks. **Hiking Difficulty:** Easy - walking on marked paths, relaxed pace / easy canoe paddling **Kid Friendly:** Yes **What is Included?** * Community Leader and Guide for the entire duration. * Guiding while canoeing. * **Canoe rental.** * Life jackets provided (if required). * 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 pictures and videos from the trip. * Access to a WhatsApp group for the confirmed participants. **Note:** Please contact us immediately if you do not have WhatsApp and we can make alternate arrangements from our end to ensure you do not miss out on any communication. **Additional Things of Note:** * Space is very limited for this trip as we only have a very limited number of Canoe's. **WHAT IS THE PLAN?** **8:00 AM -** Meet in Berlin Central Train Station (exact location to be advised in WhatsApp group for the confirmed participants) **8:20 AM** \- Board train for Lubbenau \(Spreewald: RE 2 to Cottbus\) **9:30 AM** \- Get off at Lubbenau and head to boat pickup location **10:00 AM** \- Arrive at boat pickup location **10:30 AM** \- Start canoeing **1:00 PM** \- Break for lunch in an old pub with a beer garden **2:00 PM -** Start canoeing after lunch **4:00 PM -** Get back to boat pickup location to drop off the boats. **4:30 PM** \- Start heading towards Lubbennau Train Station **5:00 PM** \- Arrive in Lubbenau Train Station **5:30 PM** \- Catch train for Berlin **7:00 PM** \- Arrive in Berlin Central Train Station \(Berlin hbf\) **FOR FUTURE TRIP UPDATES:** 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)

Hiking Events Near You

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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.
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.
Hike Char-Mar Ridge Park
Hike Char-Mar Ridge Park
This is a small but pretty park with a 1.7-mile loop. We will walk it 2 times. It goes along a ridge and has moderate elevation changes.
Blendonwood Ravine Day Hike, 10:30 am
Blendonwood Ravine Day Hike, 10:30 am