Hiking

***Journey to the far reaches of beautiful Finland in Winter to witness one of the most spellbinding phenomena in the natural world by night.*** **HOW DO I JOIN THIS TRIP?** **For more detailed info & to get entry for this trip, click on link below 👇🏽:** [https://Finland-xmas-nl2025.eventbrite.de/?aff=meetup](https://Finland-xmas-nl2025.eventbrite.de/?aff=meetup) **If you have WhatsApp, please do join this WhatsApp group below to further discuss about this trip:** [https://go.unt.global/Aurora_Europe_Trips](https://go.unt.global/Aurora_Europe_Trips) **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.** **WHY GO?** **Celebrate Christmas in Finnish Lapland** 🎄✨ Step into a real-life winter wonderland this December as Finnish Lapland transforms into a snowy fairytale. Imagine gliding through frozen forests on a husky sled, racing across sparkling trails on a snowmobile, and gazing up at the sky as the Northern Lights paint their magical colors above you. With long polar nights, December offers some of the best chances to witness this breathtaking natural spectacle. The **Aurora Borealis**, or Northern Lights, has inspired wonder for thousands of years—appearing in ancient cave paintings and living on in legends across cultures. Here in Lapland, you’ll have the chance to experience it in one of the world’s most enchanting settings. Christmas in Lapland is also about traditions and warmth. Discover Sami culture at reindeer farms, explore local handicrafts, and embrace the spirit of the Arctic people. And of course, no Christmas trip is complete without a visit to **Rovaniemi—the official hometown of Santa Claus**. From festive markets to the Santa Claus Village, the holiday charm here is unforgettable. 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)

✨ **Envie de sortir et de partager un bon moment ?** ✨ Nous organisons une sortie conviviale, idéale pour se retrouver, échanger et profiter ensemble de l’événement dans une bonne ambiance 😊 ⚠️ **Attention : la place n’est pas garantie tant que l’inscription n’a pas été effectuée sur Billetweb.** 👉 **Toutes les infos & inscription (simple et rapide, sans compte supplémentaire)** : 🎟️ [https://www.billetweb.fr/repas-soiree-de-noel](https://www.billetweb.fr/repas-soiree-de-noel) Cette sortie fait partie des activités proposées par **ENJOY! Paris**, une communauté associative qui aime créer des moments sympas et accessibles à tous : 🌍 [https://www.enjoyparis.org/](https://www.enjoyparis.org/) 📲 Pour ne rien rater des prochaines sorties, tu peux aussi télécharger l’appli ENJOY! Paris (Android) : 👉 [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.enjoyparissortiesamicales.app&pcampaignid=web_share](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.enjoyparissortiesamicales.app&pcampaignid=web_share) 🥳Prochain(s) grand(s) événement(s) de l'association ENJOY! Paris : [https://www.billetweb.fr/soiree-du-nouvel-an-enjoy-paris-2025-2026](https://www.billetweb.fr/soiree-du-nouvel-an-enjoy-paris-2025-2026) 👉 **N’hésite pas à t’inscrire et à nous rejoindre !** Au plaisir de partager ce moment avec toi 👋

Hello, Have you ever wanted **beautiful, professional photos of yourself in Paris**—for LinkedIn, your social media, or simply to capture a lasting memory? Here's a great opportunity! I'm offering **a private, professional 20-minute photography session,** during which you'll receive 15 beautifully edited photos of yourself. We'll explore different expressions, lighting, and shadows to create stunning, artistic shots. (You can check out some of my work in the photo album!). 📸 My gear: Nikon D750 + 24-70mm lens * Fee: €30 per person (cash only). You can book a solo photoshoot or with friends * Please, send me a message so we can book a date, a place (in the heart of Paris) and a start time ! * Regards, Stephanie

👋 Qui veut intégrer un groupe d'amis en cours de constitution pour faire des sorties et activités ensemble sur Paris et la région parisienne ? Voici quelques exemples de sorties proposées dans ce groupe : ❇️ apéro, afterwork, bars, restaurants, brunch, pique-nique ❇️ ciné, concert, théatre, musée ❇️ sports (tennis, initiation au golf, hiit, running, escalade, etc.) ❇️ jeux de société (poker, loup garou...) et en plein air (mollky, pétanque...) ❇️ week-end ❇️ et tout ce que tu pourras proposer. 💥💥 Ouverture, respect et bienveillance sont les valeurs qui animent le groupe 💥💥 Si tout cela te parle, inscris toi à notre groupe "Sorties et rencontres amicales - Paris" pour être informé(e) de toutes les sorties, il vient tout juste d'être créé sur Meetup et nous serons heureux de faire ta connaissance lors d'une prochaine sortie 👋 Ne te fie pas au nombre de participants sur Meetup, nous sommes sur plusieurs sites et Meetup est le dernier sur lequel nous avons ouvert un compte. \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* BIEN LIRE ATTENTIVEMENT CI-DESSOUS \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* **NB : INUTILE DE CLIQUER SUR "Participer" SUR CETTE FICHE.** Inscris toi juste au groupe et clique sur "Participer" uniquement sur les activités / sorties qui ont lieu de façon sure et certaine et qui sont toutes précédées des symboles 💥💥 devant leur titre. **Si dans le titre de la sortie il n'y a pas les symboles 💥💥 c'est que la sortie n'est pas confirmée.** Nos sorties (et celle d'autres utilisateurs) sont également publiées sur l'application gratuite de rencontres amicales Weezem : 👉 Appstore : [https://apps.apple.com/fr/app/weezem/id1547233803](https://apps.apple.com/fr/app/weezem/id1547233803) 👉 Google Play : [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.weezemapp](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.weezemapp) Tu peux aussi t'inscrire au groupe Whatsapp Weezem ici pour être informé(e) de nos futures sorties 👉 [https://chat.whatsapp.com/BoYNpq9JUyFB6RbIIDjblC](https://chat.whatsapp.com/BoYNpq9JUyFB6RbIIDjblC) A très vite. Patrice

Hello, Have you ever wanted **beautiful, professional photos of yourself in Paris**—for LinkedIn, your social media, or simply to capture a lasting memory? Here's a great opportunity! I'm offering **a private, professional 20-minute photography session,** during which you'll receive 15 beautifully edited photos of yourself. We'll explore different expressions, lighting, and shadows to create stunning, artistic shots. (You can check out some of my work in the photo album!). 📸 My gear: Nikon D750 + 24-70mm lens * Fee: €30 per person (cash only). You can book a solo photoshoot or with friends * Please, send me a message so we can book a date, a place (in the heart of Paris) and a start time ! Regards, Stephanie

https://chat.whatsapp.com/GzV0ojptK5Z7EvPYI1Zhc8 Groupe Whatsapp pour filtrer les spams et les fantômes avant de vous ajouter au vrai groupe. English text at the end of this message Moyenne d'âge : 20n-30n On poste sur plusieurs sites donc on sera plus nombreux que juste ceux inscrits ici. 6 à 25 en général. ⚠️ SI TU T'INSCRIS, TU VIENS.. OU AU MOINS TU PRÉVIENS.. MÊME POUR UN RETARD, C'EST LA BASE. SINON TU SERAS BLACKLISTÉ DE NOS PROCHAINES ACTIVITÉS ⚠️ Moi c'est Estelle l'admin du groupe WhatsApp. Depuis plus de 2 ans maintenant, on loue un Loft Rbnb vers République pour y papoter et jouer à des jeux de société autour d'un verre. Se voir, se revoir et rencontrer de nouvelles personnes histoire de créer du réel lien amical. ⚠️ Chacun participe à hauteur de 5€ à la location du Rbnb à chaque venue. ⚠️⚠️ Pour qu'il y ait de tout pour toute la nuit, les garçons ramènent de l'alcool fort et les filles des softs et des apéritifs à grignoter. Uniquement à la 1ère venue. Les autres fois chacun peut venir les mains vides. Contact : 0605837893 et groupe WhatsApp. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Average age: 20n-30n We post on several sites so there will be more of us than just those registered here. 6 to 25 in general. ⚠️ IF YOU REGISTER, YOU COME.. OR AT LEAST YOU WARN.. EVEN FOR A DELAY, THAT'S THE BASIS. OTHERWISE YOU WILL BE BLACKLISTED FROM OUR NEXT ACTIVITIES ⚠️ I'm Estelle, the admin of the WhatsApp group. For over 2 years now, we've been renting an Rbnb Loft near République where Chatting and playing board games over drinks to create real friendly bonds. See each other, see each other again and meet new people. ⚠️ Everyone contributes €5 to the Rbnb rental. ⚠️⚠️ So that there is enough for the whole night, the boys bring strong alcohol and the girls soft drinks and aperitifs to nibble on. Only on the first arrival. Other times everyone can come empty-handed. Contact: 0605837893 and WhatsApp group.

Hello 👋, Je te propose un apéro "inconnus". Le principe ? 👉 on vient seul(e) ou avec ses potes, peu importe, mais avec la volonté de découvrir de nouvelles têtes dans la joie et la bonne humeur 🎉 Si tu es seul(e) on t’accompagnera et on te fera découvrir des inconnus qui n’en seront plus 😉 💥 Cet événement est adapté aux personnes qui n'osent pas franchir le pas ou qui se disent "mince je ne vais pas aller à un event où je ne connais personne" (rassurez-vous, vous ne serez pas seul(e) dans ce cas) mais aussi à toutes les autres personnes qui souhaitent élargir son cercle de connaissances avec bienveillance et bonne humeur 💥 Weezem est une appli de rencontres amicales gratuite récemment lancée et nous sommes en train de constituer une super communauté ouverte et bienveillante. Nous accueillons les personnes sans restriction d'âge et les "ancien(ne)s", qui ne se connaissent tout au plus que depuis quelques mois, adorent accueillir et intégrer les nouveaux/nouvelles. ❤️ Alors n'hésite pas à nous rejoindre. Généralement on se retrouve dans un bar sympa qui pratique des prix très doux avec happy hour jusqu'à 1h du matin (cf. photo) à 4€ la pinte 😍 Le lieu est très facile d'accès 👉 au pied du métro Mirabeau et à 5mn des stations Eglise d'Auteuil et Javel 👍 Et on change de lieu de temps en temps alors vérifie bien l'adresse en bas de cette annonce. Voilà, tu n'as plus aucune raison de ne pas venir rejoindre le groupe 😉 Hâte de faire ta connaissance 👋 \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* A LIRE ATTENTIVEMENT \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* ✔︎ ne t'inscris que si tu es sur de venir. En effet, pour préserver la convivialité du groupe, nous limitons le nombre de participants et nous te redemanderons l'avant veille de l'événement de confirmer ta présence (sans réponse de ta part, ta participation sera annulée pour permettre à quelqu'un d'autre de participer s'il y a une liste d'attente) ✔︎ il y aura davantage de personnes inscrites à cette sortie car elle est également publiée sur l'app gratuite de rencontres amicales Weezem ✔︎ pour télécharger Weezem où tu retrouveras également plein d'autres sorties (sports, loisirs, sorties culturelles et même week-end) et où tu pourras y proposer les tiennes, c'est par ici 👉 Appstore :[https://apps.apple.com/fr/app/weezem/id1547233803](https://apps.apple.com/fr/app/weezem/id1547233803) et Google Play : [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.weezemapp](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.weezemapp) IG : @goweezem ✔︎ tu peux aussi t'inscrire au groupe Whatsapp Weezem ici 👉 [https://chat.whatsapp.com/BoYNpq9JUyFB6RbIIDjblC](https://chat.whatsapp.com/BoYNpq9JUyFB6RbIIDjblC)

👟🐕🌿Let’s go discover Asnières, a dynamic town that has managed to highlight its heritage. We will start by crossing the pretty Île de la Jatte before walking along the quays to reach Asnières. Our walk will take us through charming streets to the town center and then to the château. We will continue through Robinson Park to reach the Dog Cemetery, the first pet cemetery in France. We will finish by having a drink in an exotic, refreshing setting. 📌 INFO: * Level: Beginner (green) * Distance: 9 km * Duration: Around 2h30 * Starting point: Outside exit 1, rue du château, station Pont de Neuilly, Line 1 * Finishing point: station Gabriel Péri, line 13 * Meeting time: 1:30 p.m. * Departure at: 1.45 p.m. * Fee: 10 EUR (cash or with the app. Lydia at 0685237028) + 3.50 EUR to visit the dog cemetery (to be paid at the entrance) Hiking leader: Valérie, mobile: 06 85 23 70 28, email:[ intrepidhikersfr@gmail.com](http://mailto:intrepidhikersfr@gmail.com) 🎒 WHAT TO BRING: * Water, * Umbrella or poncho, * Suitable clothing, * Comfortable shoes. If you signed up, but can't make it, remember to change your reservation to "Not Going", thank you. For payments by Lydia, here the refund policy: [https://tinyurl.com/mt7sa23j](https://tinyurl.com/mt7sa23j) To learn more about the hike level of difficulty, see here: [https://www.ibpindex.com/index.php/en/](https://www.ibpindex.com/index.php/en/) Please read the terms and conditions carefully before making a reservation: [https://tinyurl.com/tfkub43d](https://tinyurl.com/tfkub43d) *** 👟🐕🌿 Partons découvrir Asnières, une ville dynamique mais qui a su mettre en valeur son patrimoine. Nous démarrerons en traversant la jolie île de la Jatte avant de longer les quais et rejoindre Asnières. Notre balade nous emmènera à travers de charmantes rues jusqu’au centre ville puis au château. Nous continuerons à travers le parc Robinson pour atteindre le cimetière des chiens, premier cimetière des animaux domestiques en France. Nous terminerons en prenant un verre dans un lieu dépaysant. 📌 INFO: * Niveau : Débutant (vert) * Distance : 9 km * Durée : Environ 2h30 * Point de départ : À l'extérieur de la sortie 1, rue du château, métro Pont de Neuilly, Ligne 1 * Point d'arrivée : métro Gabriel Péri, ligne 13 * Heure du rendez-vous : 13h30 * Départ à : 13h45 Prix : 10 EUR (espèces ou avec l’app. Lydia au 0685237028) + 3,50 pour la visite du cimetière des chiens, à payer à l’entrée. Accompagnatrice : Valérie, mobile : 06 85 23 70 28, email : intrepidhikersfr@gmail.com 🎒 CE QU'IL FAUT APPORTER : * De l’eau, * un parapluie ou poncho, * des vêtements adaptés, * des chaussures confortables. Si vous vous êtes inscrit, mais que vous ne pouvez pas venir, n’oubliez pas de changer votre réservation sur "N'y va pas", merci. Pour les paiements par Lydia, voir ici les conditions de remboursement : [https://tinyurl.com/mt7sa23j](https://tinyurl.com/mt7sa23j) Pour en savoir plus sur le niveau de difficulté de la randonnée, voir ici : [https://www.ibpindex.com/index.php/fr/](https://www.ibpindex.com/index.php/fr/) Veuillez lire attentivement les termes et conditions avant de faire une réservation : [https://tinyurl.com/262n4uez](https://tinyurl.com/262n4uez)

**SIGN UP : yogaclubparis.fr/booking** Join us for a fun but challenging outdoor bootcamp for women, followed by an optional community coffee at a nearby location! A great way to meet likeminded, english speaking friends supporting each other and get fit at the same time. Suitable for all levels and everyone is welcome. Aiste will help you to reach your fitness goals and feel more confident in your body! What do you need: -Exercise mat or towel -Water =An extra light layer to put on after the session as we like to go enjoy a coffee together :-) This outdoor class is weather permitting and in case of rain we will change the location to Parc Martin Luther If you have any questions send us an email via ptaiste@gmail.com

**Join hashers for Paris H3 R\*n 1124** Details coming soon! 🐰 Hares: 👣 Trail: A-to-B trail, no bag drop 📍 Meeting Point: Métro XXX 🧭 Directions: Exit/Sortie 1, follow the chalk markings 💶 Hash Cash: 5 € (Hash cash is collected to keep our club active, and also to pay for your beer.) Bring what you need. Up to you, but this could include water, sunblock, snow goggles, survival snack, chalk to back mark, a whistle if you can’t shout, brand new running shoes, a virgin, shiggy socks, a hash hymnal, a bag of tea, a bag of wine, wax, and/or extra cash. Dress appropriately - we run, and we may get into some shiggy (mud, puddles, scratchy bushes, wet paint, ...) On on! 👣🍻 https://www.meetup.com/parish3-schhh

Rejoignez-nous chaque samedi pour les Run Up ! Des runs conviviaux, gratuits et pour tous niveaux dans les parcs des 13 et 14ème arrondissements parisiens. On compte sur vous ✌️ N'hésitez pas à rejoindre notre groupe WhatsApp Run Up pour avoir toutes les annonces concernant les runs : https://chat.whatsapp.com/D25iKPrawdjEeTbn8Bd4V9

Join us for a fun but challenging outdoor bootcamp! A great way to meet like minded, english speaking friends and get fit at the same time!
Adaptions are given for all exercises making the workout suitable for all levels!
WHAT DO I BRING?
Exercise mat (or towel)
Water bottle
Cash - €15
WHERE DO WE WORKOUT? Parc Monceau. We meet by the raised platform area which is next to the playground and on the Boulevard From the Monceau metro / Carousel entrance, turn right and we are about half way down.
I am very excited to meet you, Coach Aiste

**Summary** I love hiking [Highbanks](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/highbanks/) in the winter after the sun has gone down. Highbanks is never really dark -- there's too much ambient light from Lewis Center. But I love the trails at night. When I started hiking Highbanks, I was afraid of getting lost and particularly at night. But now that I know my way around, nighttime is one of my favorite times to hike there. In addition, near the end of our hike, we will take a few minutes to walk around the Nature Center and look at the Christmas lights. (The Nature Center itself will be closed, however, by the time we get to it.) 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 on the Dripping Rock and Overlook Trails. Afterward, we'll head over to [Olentangy River Brewing](https://www.olentangybrew.com/) for drinks and [food](https://www.olentangybrew.com/eventsandfood). Last year, the weather wasn't too terrible, and the Brewery had their patio fire pits going and we were able to sit outside. The fire pits at night are kind of amazing. The actual address of the brewery is [303 Green Meadows Dr S, Lewis Center, OH 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 7:45. **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. **Note on our starting time** Highbanks closes at 8:00 this time of year, and they get kind of snarly about getting everyone out of the park by then. So please be on time for this hike. I want to allow two hours for the hike and be back at Big Meadows by 7:30. So we're shoving off at 5:30, with or without a quorum.

**History** [Blacklick Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blacklick-woods/), established in 1949, holds the distinction of being the first Columbus Metro Park. Its creation stemmed from a post-World War II push to preserve natural areas amid rapid suburban growth. The land, originally farmland and woodlots along Blacklick Creek, was acquired by the Columbus Metropolitan Park Board through donations and purchases. Early efforts focused on basic trail development and reforestation to combat erosion. The park's name derives from the creek, which early settlers called "Black Lick" due to its dark, mineral-rich waters. By the 1950s, it served as a model for the expanding Metro Parks system. In the 1960s, Blacklick Woods expanded significantly with additional land acquisitions, reaching over 600 acres. A golf course was added in 1964, one of the first public courses in the region, designed to generate revenue for park maintenance. Native American artifacts, including arrowheads from the Adena culture, were discovered during construction, highlighting the area's prehistoric use as hunting grounds. The park introduced interpretive programs to educate visitors on local ecology and history. Flood control measures along the creek became a priority after heavy rains caused damage. These developments solidified its role as a recreational hub. The 1970s and 1980s brought environmental awareness, leading to habitat restoration projects at Blacklick Woods. Invasive species were removed, and native wildflowers were planted in the meadows. A nature center opened in 1976, featuring exhibits on wetlands and forests. The park's slate-covered bridge, a remnant of 19th-century infrastructure, was preserved as a historic feature. Birdwatching gained popularity with the addition of observation decks. Community volunteers played a key role in trail maintenance and cleanups. During the 1990s, Blacklick Woods underwent major upgrades, including paved multi-use trails for biking and hiking. The Walter A. Tucker Nature Preserve, a 53-acre old-growth forest within the park, was dedicated in 1995 to protect rare beech-maple woodlands. Educational partnerships with local schools introduced field trips on topics like stream ecology. The golf course was renovated to improve playability while minimizing environmental impact. Annual events, such as the fall festival, drew thousands to celebrate the park's natural beauty. These enhancements balanced recreation with conservation. In the 21st century, Blacklick Woods has adapted to increasing visitation with sustainable practices. Solar panels were installed at facilities in the 2010s to reduce energy costs. The park now spans 643 acres, offering diverse habitats from wetlands to uplands. Recent initiatives include pollinator gardens and prescribed burns to maintain prairie areas. It remains a flagship for the Metro Parks, inspiring similar preservations system-wide. Ongoing archaeological surveys continue to uncover traces of early inhabitants. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Blacklick Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BLK-map-May-2025-with-extended-greenway_1980px.jpg). **Summary** For this event, we will hike about 4.5 miles by doing a couple loops of the Buttonbush, Tucker, Maple Loop, and Beech trails. Blacklick Woods is a very nice park, but it is generally flat and not strenuous, so this will be one of the easier hikes that we do. **Where We'll Meet** Drive all the way to the back of the park to the parking lot that is nearest the Nature Center. There are restrooms here next to the Canopy Walk. We'll meet near these restrooms. Speaking of the [Canopy Walk](https://www.metroparks.net/blog/canopy-walk-is-your-gateway-to-the-sky/), it's not officially part of the event this time. However, if interested people want to freelance and check it out after the hike (before heading to the brewery), that's okay. **After the Hike** After we're done with the trails, we'll head to [Prost Beer & Wine Café](https://prostcafe.com/) for drinks and [food](https://prostcafe.com/reynoldsburg-prost-beer-and-wine-cafe-food-menu). The actual address of the brewery is [7354 E Main St, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068](https://www.google.com/maps/place/7354+E+Main+St,+Reynoldsburg,+OH+43068/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x8838648cfb8d2dbb:0x545274bab130e9bb?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and we should be there by 5:00 if you just want to do that and skip the hike.

***(She loves me!)* A Brief History of Quarry Trails** [Quarry Trails Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/quarry-trails/) traces its origins to a vast limestone quarry operated by the Marble Cliff Quarry Company starting in the early 20th century. The site, located along the Scioto River west of downtown, supplied crushed stone for local construction projects and roads throughout central Ohio. Operations peaked mid-century, with massive excavation creating deep pits and steep cliffs that reshaped the landscape. By the 1980s, demand declined, and the southern section of the quarry closed (with the northern section of the quarry remaining in operation to this day by a separate company), leaving behind scarred terrain and abandoned equipment. Environmental concerns arose as the area became a dumping ground and off-road playground for locals. Columbus Metro Parks began eyeing the property in the 1990s for potential reclamation into public green space. In 2015, Metro Parks acquired the initial 180 acres from the quarry's owners, marking a pivotal step toward transformation. Thrive Companies, a local developer, partnered in the deal to build adjacent housing while funding park improvements. Cleanup efforts removed tons of debris, stabilized cliffs, and addressed water quality in the flooded quarries. Planners envisioned a mix of adventure and preservation, incorporating the site's industrial remnants as features. Community input from nearby Grandview Heights and Hilliard residents shaped early designs. The project gained momentum with state and federal grants supporting habitat restoration. The park officially opened its first phase in November 2021, featuring 3.5 miles of trails, a waterfall overlook, and climbing walls on the quarry faces. Visitors quickly embraced the unique terrain, with mountain biking loops and a 25-foot waterfall drawing crowds from across the metro area. Metro Parks added a canoe/kayak launch on the Scioto River, connecting to the city's broader trail network. Dog parks and picnic areas rounded out the amenities, making it a year-round destination. Expansion continued with land acquisitions pushing the total toward 600 acres. By 2023, the park hosted events like guided hikes and birdwatching tours. Ongoing development includes a planned adventure center with zip lines and more extensive single-track trails set for completion in the coming years. Metro Parks collaborates with conservation groups to plant native species and monitor wildlife returning to the reclaimed quarries. The site now serves as an educational hub, with interpretive signs explaining its quarrying past and ecological recovery. Local schools incorporate field trips to study geology and restoration science. Quarry Trails exemplifies Columbus's shift from industrial reuse to innovative urban parks. It stands as the newest addition to the Metro Parks system, complementing favorites like Scioto Audubon and Highbanks. Today, Quarry Trails continues evolving, with future phases adding connections to the Olentangy Trail and more water access points. Annual visitor numbers have surged, boosting nearby businesses in the evolving west side neighborhoods. The park's success has inspired similar reclamation projects elsewhere in the region. It highlights how Columbus balances growth with green space preservation. Residents enjoy a one-of-a-kind spot that honors the area's gritty history while offering modern recreation. Quarry Trails remains a testament to community vision and adaptive reuse in our city. ***(She loves me not.)* A Briefer History of Valentine's Day** The origins of Valentine's Day trace back to ancient Rome and the festival of Lupercalia, celebrated in mid-February to honor fertility and purification rites. During this raucous event, young men drew names of women from a box in a matchmaking lottery, often leading to pairings or marriages. By the late 5th century, Pope Gelasius I officially replaced Lupercalia with St. Valentine's Day on February 14 to Christianize the pagan holiday. Although several early Christian martyrs were named Valentine, the most commonly associated figure is a 3rd-century Roman priest who secretly married couples against Emperor Claudius II's ban on young men marrying, believing single soldiers fought better. Legend claims Valentine was imprisoned and later executed on February 14, around 269–270 AD. The romantic associations with Valentine's Day emerged much later, during the Middle Ages. The pivotal moment came in the late 14th century when Geoffrey Chaucer, in his poem "Parlement of Foules" (c. 1381), linked St. Valentine's Day with courtship, writing that birds chose their mates on this date. This literary connection spread rapidly among the English and French nobility, transforming the saint's feast day into a celebration of romantic love. By the 15th century, lovers began exchanging handwritten notes called "valentines," often containing verses or simple declarations of affection. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Valentine's Day became increasingly commercialized, especially in England and later the United States. The introduction of printed valentines in the 1840s, pioneered by Esther Howland in America, turned personal notes into mass-produced cards adorned with lace, ribbons, and Cupid imagery. Factories began producing elaborate cards, and the tradition of giving flowers (especially roses), chocolates, and jewelry took hold during the Victorian era. Today, February 14 is one of the most widely celebrated secular holidays worldwide, generating billions in spending on cards, candy, flowers, and romantic dinners. While still officially the feast day of Saint Valentine in some Christian traditions, the modern version has largely shed its religious roots in favor of universal expressions of love and friendship. From ancient fertility rites to global commercial phenomenon, Valentine's Day has evolved dramatically over two millennia while retaining its core focus on human connection. ***(She loves me!)* Map of the Park** Here is a [Map of Quarry Trails](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Quarry-Trails_JUNE-2025_1980px-Web.jpg). ***(She loves me not.)* Summary** For this hike, we'll do a loop of the park. This will be about four miles. Now, this won't be one of our longer hikes. However, in my experience, Quarry Trails tends to wear people out more quickly than other parks. I suspect this is because most of the trails are either paved or heavily graveled (no surprise at a park which abuts an active stone quarry), with some elevation changes along the way. ***(She loves me!)* Where We'll Meet** Quarry Trails has multiple entrances, but none of them are connected internally within the park. So you must drive to the correct one for this event. Set your GPS to [2319 Quarry Trails Dr, Hilliard, OH 43026](https://www.google.com/maps/place/2319+Quarry+Trails+Dr,+Hilliard,+OH+43026/@39.9998462,-83.0873077,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x883891dd76f5eedf:0xf1cb9d34c1069580!8m2!3d39.9997868!4d-83.0872621!16s%2Fg%2F11y17k0ms5?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), or use the map pin I've provided here. Do not just type "Quarry Trails" into Google Maps and expect it to take you to the correct place. It probably won't. We will meet in the parking lot of the Lake Area. The best entrance to this parking lot will be your first left off of Quarry Trails Dr after Gunnison Dr (which will be on your right). I recommend taking a few minutes and looking at Maps before you head out to make sure you know where you're going. ***(So walk with me...)* Restrooms and Water Fountains** There are a few port-a-potties sprinkled throughout the park (including two at the parking lot we'll be meeting at), and the Park Office, roughly in the center of the park and which we'll pass twice on this hike, has restrooms and a water fountain. This is the only water fountain, though, at Quarry Trails. ***(At Trails Quarry!*)** **After the Hike** Afterward, we'll head over to [Johnnie's Tavern](https://johnniestavern614.com/) for [drinks](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Johnnie's+Tavern/@39.993202,-83.0903169,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m8!1e2!3m6!1sCIABIhAulLarLYZC3hY_vRGwoakV!2e10!3e12!6shttps:%2F%2Flh3.googleusercontent.com%2Fgps-cs-s%2FAG0ilSzkwnMN29-lrgzp50Rzeaq5jXCGM1xLS1poH0Mc52-E9NYBvdS99ei7zGmlAYJZyk8OeNW5YvS7agj8M2Bom4ri1m_-NcJiT-LQUDphkS-SB5Vq8JhO-8NSP-_m80HeLz4-pGhjrwhuBKSv%3Dw146-h195-k-no!7i4284!8i5712!4m7!3m6!1s0x883891c4d61ba04d:0x5134f225cbf678bf!8m2!3d39.9932439!4d-83.0902078!10e9!16s%2Fg%2F11c1p57s3t?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) and [food](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Johnnie's+Tavern/@39.993202,-83.0903169,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m8!1e2!3m6!1sCIABIhB5lD4Uly_4O9BjNH4r3ywB!2e10!3e12!6shttps:%2F%2Flh3.googleusercontent.com%2Fgps-cs-s%2FAG0ilSy7tQcc7CtCeuUAKwEVJoxtOs8Ycohjy3mGZZOC_kJVdB8wEaGuC4-p5z_jxn2JnpmSEkh_HG7Aok_ZPEgmK57rEBqNIPH8J5tiyAP5vbrRYkUso_fKTkW5vJc47UusNoGiRzs2Vf0m1JcV%3Dw146-h195-k-no!7i4284!8i5712!4m7!3m6!1s0x883891c4d61ba04d:0x5134f225cbf678bf!8m2!3d39.9932439!4d-83.0902078!10e9!16s%2Fg%2F11c1p57s3t?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). Its actual address is [3503 Trabue Rd, Columbus, OH 43204](https://www.google.com/maps/place/3503+Trabue+Rd,+Columbus,+OH+43204/@39.9932491,-83.090227,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x883891c4d6199677:0x1fda03b0add81e7c!8m2!3d39.9932491!4d-83.090227!16s%2Fg%2F11c14yf3m6?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), and it's only about a five minute drive from where we'll be parked at Quarry Trails. We should be at the tavern by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to meet 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.

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.

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