Hiking

**Metropolitan Walkers is part of the Ramblers, Britain's walking charity. All welcome for 3 'taster' walks, after which please join the Ramblers - info on the [Met Walkers website](https://www.metropolitan-walkers.org.uk/how-to-join/)** Beginning in Golders Green, we explore Hamstead Health, passing numerous ponds and the Parliament Hill viewing spot, before finishing at Tufnell Park. Optional: Please join us in the pub at the end for a drink and a chat. Please note: it is possible that parts of Hamstead Heath will be muddier than our mid-week walks usually get. Walking boots are advised. #### Golders Green through Hampstead Heath to Tufnell Park **Leisurely \| 4\.5 miles / 7\.2 km** **Start: Meet outside Golders Green Station @ 07:00 pm** Postcode: NW11 7RN **End: Finish at Tufnell Park Underground Station** Postcode: N19 5BQ

A stunning 9 mile walk in the beautiful hilly countryside and river surrounding Amberley in Sussex ! Lets go with the flow ! We shall buy group return train tickets at 10am for the train at 10.35am that arrives at Amberley at 11.58am. Train ticket : Return to Amberley Or you may decide to drive. Please bring packed lunch, water, snacks etc, waterproof jacket and walking shoes or trainers. You should have adequate insurance for this type of activity and be able to walk 2.5 miles per hour. We shall take the train back to London from Amberley at 5.18pm. We shall have drink around lunchtime and perhaps also at the end of the walk. Meetup fee £5 payable in cash or by bank transfer in advance. Please only post photos of others with their consent. My no 07714250849.

Join OutdoorLads popular weekly Thursday Bouldering evening at The Arch in Bermondsey. OutdoorLads London boulderers welcome all members of the LGBTQ+ community You'll be meeting with a supportive group of 5 to 10 plus boulderers who are always happy to introduce complete beginners or solve difficult bouldering problems with enthusiasts. We usually follow up with a pub visit. This event is for members of all levels of experience and all are welcome to come along to any of the sessions. Bouldering is a form of climbing where instead of long high routes, the 'problems', as they are referred to, tend to be shorter and focus on technique, balance, body positioning and sometimes power. Because of this different emphasis, bouldering doesn't have the hassle of climbing with ropes, harnesses and belaying, which makes the activities excellent for newcomers to the sport. If you're a seasoned climber you won't need convincing about the benefits of bouldering, but for those who've never climbed more than a staircase, the benefits are wide ranging: from the physical - improved strength, tone, balance, power and coordination; mental - problem solving, focus, concentration and body awareness; to the emotional - relaxation, a sense of achievement and a feeling that mind and body are working together perfectly ('feeling psyched'). On top of all this, bouldering tends to be a very social sport where you can hang out with mates and each have a go as you feel regardless of what level you climb at.

Ready to get outside? Our Thursday morning session in Dulwich park is back! At this moment we can meet with up to 30 people (of more than two households) to do outdoor exercise and walks. However, i like to keep our exercise groups small, so I have set the maximum participants at 12. For now this walk is for our experienced Nordic Walkers only, who already used to Nordic Walk with us regularly before Covid 19 kept us indoors, and who have their own Nordic Walking poles. As this session is outdoors, we will not ask you to wear a face mask, but we do ask you to keep 2 meters apart. Some of our walkers might be immune compromised or more at risk, so please help us keep everyone safe! Please do not come to the session and stay at home if: - you know you have been in contact - in the last 2 weeks- with someone with symptoms of possible Covid, or if you have been in contact with someone who tested positive. - you have any of the following symptoms: (new) Loss of smell/taste, Persistent cough, Fatigue, Loss of appetite, Skin rash, Hives, Fever, Severe muscle pain, Shortness of breath, Diarrhoea, Delirium, Abdominal pain, Chest pain, Hoarse voice, Eye soreness, Sore or painful throat, Nausea or vomiting, Headache, Dizziness or light headedness We meet by the cafe in the middle of the park. Session Price: £10 per session, £89 for a 10-session card or £70 unlimited sessions per month. Session cards and pay Monthly can be used in any of our outdoor walks or indoor Zoom classes sessions (except for the Parkinson's sessions). Pay What Works: The price shown above is the “true” value of the session that best reflects the work I put into preparing and leading your session. However, I understand that not everyone can afford to pay full price, and I don’t want that to stop you from joining us. In an effort to find a balance between more financial accessibility and sustainable pricing, I now offer a “Pay What Works” model. This allows for financial flexibility while still valuing and respecting the work and energy I provide in creating and delivering these classes. Then send an email to ailien@fitandhappyoutdoors.com with the heading “INVOICE please”- followed by “FAHO 1” to pay full price as quoted below, “FAHO 2”, for 20% off, or “FAHO 3” for 50% off. Pllease do tell me if you want to pay for 10 sessions, or if you’d like to pay monthly. I prefer payment by bank transfer, but if that is not possible you could pay in cash. No cheques please, the queues by the banks are just too long. We walk in all safe weather conditions – if a walk is cancelled, we will contact you to let you know. Please check for text messages or Meetup messages before leaving home!

Vandome Cycles are providing drop in bike check/repair sessions: • Barking Riverside Bike Hub IG11 0FJ: Opening Times: Every Mon & Thu 3pm-7pm and Sat: 9am-5pm • The Fiddlers, Dagenham, RM8 3HH: Every Saturday 10am – 2pm

Come join us for a wonderful summer's party in the gardens of the church. Tea and coffee provided together with great selection of home made cakes. Prizes for best cakes will be awarded at the hall. Event is for all the group, both new and existing members, so it is a great opportunity to meet the group and to chat about events coming up. Pease bring a bottle to celebrate with the group. Great place for new members to meet the existing members and catch up on the latest news and find out about forthcoming events. Travel: Our hall is 5 minutes walk from Harrow on the Hill train station. On Met & Chiltern lines. Free parking available at the hall and on nearby residential roads. Event is arranged by Harrow Outdoor Group, www.hawog.org.uk (http://www.hawog.org.uk/) Any questions please mail meetup@hawog.org.uk

Please join us for our weekly run and social - a great (free!) way to meet new people! We meet at 7pm outside The Horatia ( https://maps.app.goo.gl/p1QnyurFQh3gywov6) and head for the run together from there. You can leave a small bag or extra layer at the pub at your own risk. The winter route is around Highbury Fields and in the summer we do a loop to Clissold Park, both ending at the starting point- the Horatia pub. We run 5km at an easy pace (about 6-7 mins per km), with some people going faster and some slower. After the run, we will head to the Horatia pub for some drinks (alcoholic and soft are fine- no judgment!).

Hello ! Join us for a beautiful summer walk through the stunning Darent Valley, taking in chocolate-box villages, riverside scenery, spectacular lavender fields and historic countryside. ⭐️ Organiser’s fee: £7 💜 What’s Included 💜 🌿 Approximately 5-mile linear walk through the picturesque Darent Valley 💜 Visit to the spectacular Castle Farm Lavender Fields, one of the largest lavender farms in the UK 🌿 Wander through acres of vibrant purple lavender in full bloom, filling the air with its wonderful fragrance 📸 Fantastic photo opportunities amongst the lavender fields 🍦 Opportunity to purchase delicious lavender ice cream ☕️ Try lavender tea and browse a wonderful selection of lavender gifts, plants and artisan products 🌾 Enjoy beautiful views across the Kent countryside ⭐️ One of the most colourful and photogenic walks of the summer! ⭐️📸 PHOTO COMPETITION 📸⭐️ Win a beautiful selection of lavender products from the Castle Farm shop! 💜 Simply upload your favourite artistic photographs from the day onto the Meetup event page after the walk. 🌿 I’ll choose a winning image from this wonderfully photogenic walk. ⭐️ Prize: A lovely selection of lavender goodies from the farm shop! ⭐️ Optional Extra ⭐️ For anyone wishing to extend the day, nearby Lullingstone Castle is hosting a special English Civil War Society Weekend. ⚔️ Living history displays ⚔️ Musket and cannon firing demonstrations ⚔️ Re-enactors and historic encampments ⚔️ Castle grounds and gardens A fun and fascinating optional addition for history lovers. 🚆 Meeting Details ⭐️ Meet outside the main ticket barriers at London Victoria Station at 10:20am on Saturday 4th July 🚆 We will catch the 10:55am train to Shoreham (Kent) ⭐️ Alternatively, if you would prefer to meet the group at Shoreham Station, please let me know in advance. 🍺 End of Walk 🌿 We will finish in the attractive village of Eynsford 🍴 Opportunity for food and drinks at The Malt Shovel pub 🚆 Return to London from Eynsford Station 💷 Travel Costs ⭐️ Approximate return train fare: £11 (including GroupSave discount) 🎒 Please Bring 💧 Water ☀️ Sunscreen 🧢 A hat if hot weather is forecast 🥾 Suitable walking footwear 📞 Contact 07816 866300 💜🌿 Come and enjoy one of Kent’s most spectacular summer displays as the lavender reaches its peak bloom. The scent, colour and scenery make this one of the most memorable countryside walks of the year! 🌿💜

Looking for a Sunday that feels like a soft slice of summer? Join us for a beautiful 12–15 km loop through the Darent Valley, where riverside paths, rolling green fields, and blooming lavender come together in one of Kent's most charming landscapes. This valley has been shaped by centuries of life and travel, and you feel it as soon as you step onto the trail. We'll pass beneath the towering arches of the Eynsford Viaduct, a Victorian engineering landmark that has carried trains across the valley since the 1860s. Further along, the route brushes past the historic grounds of Lullingstone Castle, a Tudor manor once visited by Henry VIII and home to the Hart Dyke family for over 500 years. From there, the path opens into the quiet lanes of Shoreham village and the purple shimmer of the lavender fields drifting across the hillsides. As we move through meadows, woodlands, and open countryside, the day settles into that easy summer rhythm where everything feels unhurried and lightly golden. It's the kind of walk where the scenery does the talking: the river winding beside us, the scent of lavender in the warm air, and the countryside unfolding in soft greens and purples — a Sunday that feels sun-warmed, peaceful, and just a little bit dreamy. We will head to a pub near the station when we finish for a pint or/and lunch. ## 📅 **Event Details** **Meeting Point:** Eynsford Station (Start / Finish) **Meeting Time:** 10:15 AM for 10:30 AM sharp start. **Distance:** approx. 12 to 15 km **Elevation:** \~300 m approx **Difficulty:** Moderate **Pace:** Steady **Estimated Finish:** Around 2 PM ## 🌿 **Route Highlights** * **Eynsford Viaduct Viewpoint** — one of Kent’s most photogenic spots, especially in summer light. * **Ancient woodland paths** around Ashen Bank, offering shade and cool forest air. * **Shoreham Village** — postcard‑perfect with its stone bridge and riverside charm. * **Darent Valley Path** — peaceful riverside walking with open fields and gentle breezes. * **Shoreham Lavender Fields** — with sweeping purple rows and great photo opportunities. * **Lullingstone Country Park** and **Castle** — meadows, woodlands, and a relaxed finish back toward Eynsford. This is a circular route full of **colour, greenery, and soft summer atmosphere** — the kind of day that feels wrapped in the easy warmth of summer countryside. ## 🎒 **What to Bring** * Comfortable hiking boots or sturdy shoes * At least **2L of water** * Packed snacks * Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) * Light layers — summer can still surprise * Good vibes and your best Sunday‑summer energy ## 📌 **Important Notes** * **Stay Together:** Please stay with or behind the hike leader to keep the group moving smoothly and regular catch ups. * **Respect the Area:** Parts of the route pass through the **Kent Downs National Landscape** — please respect wildlife, fields, and local guidelines. * **Group Rules:** Please read the “About Us” section before joining: [https://www.meetup.com/free-hiking-outdoor-fitness-and-social-activities](https://www.meetup.com/free-hiking-outdoor-fitness-and-social-activities?utm_source=copilot.com%20%22www.meetup.com%22) * **Safety:** This is a voluntary activity. You are responsible for your own safety and for respecting fellow walkers, wildlife, and the environment. No risk or service is inferred or accepted by the organiser. 📱 **If you’re lost or running late:** 07830 374 629

🕌 Walking in Woking: A short day trip to visit the first purpose built Mosque in the UK and Northern Europe (1889) + A walk to the Peace Gardens (Muslim soldiers burial ground for WWI/WW2), Horsell Common woodlands, River Wey path and Woking Town. 🌐 [Woking Mosque](https://shahjahanmosque.org.uk/the-mosque) 🟢 **WALK:** 📏13km (8 miles) 💓 Av. Pace: 4.8 km/h *[A number of roads cross the trail due to the layout of the town]* 📍 **Meeting Point:** Waterloo Station (opposite platform 3) ⌚Meet from **09:41am.** The trains departs at **10:00am** *[Arrives: 10:24 at Woking, Retrun train aiming for 15:40]* *✊ **Pace & Purpose:** Active Muslims is about focusing on the actual activity. These are **paced walks and hikes (not strolls)**, so please join us with that* ***[active mindset and purpose](https://www.instagram.com/reels/DBhPWpdIMKq/)*** *in mind.* **🚆 Travel & Tickets** All our regular walks & hikes are free to join. You are welcome to arrange your own travel or meet us at the destination station. **Option 1: Buy Your Own Ticket** We recommend buying on the day. Use a **Network Railcard** or a **GroupSave** discount where possible. ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ **Option 2: Group Ticket (3+ People)** I can help purchase group tickets to save costs, **BUT you must arrive at the station before the platform is announced to collect your physical ticket.** To join this: 💳 **PayPay Here:** TBC *Please send via **Friends & Family** and make sure no fee is charged.* ⏳**Deadline:** TBC By Thursday 3rd July 📱 **Confirmation:** Message on **[WhatsApp](https://tinyurl.com/5n68255b)** with your **Meetup Name** once paid. *ℹ️ No refunds once tickets are bought.* ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ 🚻 Toilets: At Waterloo Station, Mosque/Woking Shopping Centre. **🎒 Essentials:** * **Gear:** Appropriate Footwear * **Food/Water:** Packed lunch, snacks, and water. * **Tech:** Fully charged phone * **Prayer:** If you are praying, please ensure you have **wudu** beforehand. 🚶‍♂️We will also do a bit of Walking in Woking, visit the town centre and also pass The Martian Tripod sculpture. H.G. Wells set the location for The War of the Worlds novel entirely in his hometown of Woking. It was first published in 1897. 🕌 The Shah Jahan Mosque (Woking Mosque) was built in 1889 as the first purpose build mosque in the UK and Northern Europe, build by Hungarian-British Orientalist and partly funded by Sultan Shah Jahan Begum of Bhopal, as a place for students at the Oriental Institute in Woking to worship. It is a Grade I listed building. 💠 Peace Gardens: The original Woking Muslim Military Cemetery was opened in 1917 by the British Government to counteract German propaganda that Muslim Indian soldiers from the army were not being buried according to their religious rites. Muslim Indian soldiers connected with WW1 were buried there and a further 8 connected with WW2. It is a Grade II listed building. **📋 Attendance Policy:** When an event has a **waiting list**, priority is given to new joiners and those with a reliable attendance record - *previous "No-Shows" may be moved to the waitlist to ensure spots go to reliable attendees [[why it matters](https://tinyurl.com/28sh83cn)]* ⛑️ **Disclaimer**: You are solely responsible for your own safety on these events and have the fitness level required for it. That you do not require special attention, medication or additional care. You are also responsible for your belonging at all times. 🚦 **[Walk/Hike Levels:](https://www.instagram.com/share/reel/BBxV4zomeZ)** 🟢 Easy 🟡 Average 🟠 Moderate 🔴 Challenging ⚫ Very Challenging **Follow us for updates:** 🌐 **[@Active.Muslims](https://www.instagram.com/active.muslims)**

Join us for another adventure of stunning and geologically dramatic stretches of the Jurassic Coast! We climb high onto the ancient Purbeck Ridgeway and be treated to breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views over the sprawling waters of Poole Harbour on one side, and the dramatic English Channel on the other. We pass the famous "Dancing Ledge"- a spectacular, flat limestone shelf jutting straight out into the crashing ocean waves where the sea looks like it’s dancing. *⚠️ **NOTE: This event is only open to known/selected attendees that are flexible and understand the risks with such a tightly scheduled trip. There is always a chance of delays or missing a connection! Please initially add yourself to the waitlist** (taking limited numbers).* 🔴 **HIKE:** 📏 22km (13 miles) 🏔️ Elev. Gain: 630m 💓 Av. Pace: **5.2+km/h** 🚥 [View Walking/Hiking Levels Here](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPRjEOPjW8B/) *[\*Strict pace]* 📍 **Waterloo: Opposite Platform 3** ⌚Meet from 07:41, the train departs at **08:05** **Schedule!** 🚉 **08:05**: **Waterloo** \> Train to **Wareham** 🚉 10:27 Wareham > Exit for Bus 🚌 \~**10:44** Bus to **Swanage** \> 11:26 🚶🏻 \~12:00 > Town > Hike 🚌 \~**17:57** **Swanage** to **Wareham >** 18:47 🚉 \~**19:12** Wareham to **Wareloo >** 21:49 🎟️ **Train Tickets**: **It is best to purchase with a Network Rail Card with** an **Open Return** for your train ticket. ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ 🚌 **Bus Tickets: I will aim to purchase these in advance for the group to save time/cost. You will need to transfer the funds to me beforehand. We will purchase a Group Dayrider Zone ABC, currenty £30 for 5 people** (£6 each depending on number) 💳 **PayPal £6 TBC (do not pay yet)** *Please send via **Friends & Family** and make sure no fee is charged.* ⏳**Deadline:** Friday 9:01pm 📱 **Confirmation:** Message on **[WhatsApp](https://tinyurl.com/5n68255b)** with your **Meetup Name** once paid. *ℹ️ No refunds once tickets are purchased.* ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ 🚻 Waterloo, on-board train **🎒 Essentials:** * **Gear:** Hiking boots (recommended), hiking socks (or double socks), and layered clothing. * **Food/Water:** Packed lunch, snacks, and 1.5–2L of water. * **Tech:** Fully charged phone + portable power bank. * **Safety:** Emergency whistle + Headtorch (winter). * **Prayer:** If you are praying, please ensure you have **wudu** beforehand. Be ready to join the group promptly to keep us on schedule **📋 Attendance Policy:** When an event has a **waiting list**, priority is given to new joiners and those with a reliable attendance record - *previous "No-Shows" may be moved to the waitlist to ensure spots go to reliable attendees [[why it matters](https://tinyurl.com/28sh83cn)]* ⛑️ **Disclaimer**: You are solely responsible for your own safety on these events and have the fitness level required for it. That you do not require special attention, medication or additional care. You are also responsible for your belonging at all times. 🚦 **[Walk/Hike Levels:](https://www.instagram.com/share/reel/BBxV4zomeZ)** 🟢 Easy 🟡 Average 🟠 Moderate 🔴 Challenging ⚫ Very Challenging **Follow us for updates:** 🌐 **[@Active.Muslims](https://www.instagram.com/active.muslims)**

Walk length 5miles/8km approx. Linear. A chance to celebrate American Independence Day with a short wander along the South Bank past a number of iconic sites associated with the United States. Some of the sites we pass include the Globe Theatre a fantastic recreation of Shakespeare's original tudor Globe located close to the original playhouse and largely the inspiration of the American actor Sam Wanamaker. We can stop for a mid walk drink at the George Pub, the only remaining galleried pub/coaching inn left in London dating back to 1677, close by is the site of the Queen’s Head Tavern once owned by John Harvard, the sale of the Tavern went to fund the now very famous Harvard University at Boston. We can visit the historic Mayflower pub, named after the Pilgrim fathers that left Rotherhithe for America in 1620. The end of the walk is close to Rotherhithe station and a short work to Bermondsey station for a final drink/food. Cost: £4 cash payable on the day (payable to colin45@hotmail.co.uk, please send as friends and family to avoid charges) (guided walk & meetup costs) the host is a qualified London guide). Meeting Meet close to the steps of the Golden Jubilee Bridges opposite Strada and Foyles on the Southbank of the Thames from 2.45pm for the walk to start at 3.00pm (see photo above). See Transport for London (http://www.tfl.gov.uk/) Please keep your 'RSVP' updated for this event as it would help me get accurate numbers, and determine who is turning up for the walk; my phone number is Colin 07709 305681. Walking Safety: Walking is a great way to keep fit and generally very safe; however it does contain an element of risk. Before going on any of these walks you need to be reasonably fit and be prepared to be responsible for your own safety. You should wear appropriate clothing such as proper walking shoes, warm and wet weather clothing and carry sufficient food and water. Please see our Terms and Conditions (http://www.meetup.com/London-Explorers/pages/Terms_and_Conditions/)

This is our standard hike, but at this time of year the lavender is typically out, so we will go past a lavender field (please note, we go past it, not into it). This is a one off hike, this is the only day this year that we are hosting it 📏 **Key Info:** • Distance: 9 miles (15km) • Grading: [Beginner](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/HikeGradings.pdf) but it has 2 long steep hills, we take these gently and wait at the top • Ascent: 290m • Hiking time: 4 to 5 hours • Cost: £31 (includes guided hike + return train) • Refunds: Payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. If you follow our [[Resale Process](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf)] and your place is rebooked, we’ll issue a refund. • Toilet breaks: On the train, at the lunch stop, and at the end pub 📍 **Meeting Point** • Location: Victoria station. Meet between WHSmith (no 34) and Nero Express (no 29) - [MAP](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/Victoria.jpg) & [PHOTO](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/VictoriaPhoto.jpg) • Time: Meet 8:20am, leave 8:40am for the 8:55am train • Return: 5:21pm arrival back in London (you’re committed until then) 🌟 **Highlights** • Admire **Lullingstone Castle** and its tranquil lakeside setting • Walk a scenic stretch of the **Darent Valley Path** • Pass the site of **Lullingstone Roman Villa**, dating back to around 100 AD • Explore **Lullingstone Country Park**, home to 800-year-old trees • Visit the ruins of **Eynsford Castle**, a Norman fortification from 1088 • Hike beneath the striking **Eynsford Rail Viaduct**, with its 22m-high brick arches • Stroll through three charming **Kentish villages** — Otford, Shoreham and Eynsford 🥾 **Hike Description** We begin in the historic village of **Otford**, occupied for at least 3,000 years. Through the ages, it has been home to Iron Age farmers, Romans, royalty and archbishops. From here our route leads into the tranquil woods and grasslands of the Kentish countryside, reaching **Shoreham** before following the **Darent Valley Path** into the heart of the valley. The trail takes us into the beautiful **Lullingstone Country Park**, internationally important for its collection of ancient trees. Beech, ash, oak, sweet chestnut and hornbeam all thrive here, with some specimens thought to be over 800 years old. Emerging from the woodland, we arrive at **Lullingstone Castle**, set beside its peaceful lake, before continuing to the site of **Lullingstone Roman Villa** — a rare survival of a Roman estate house first built around 100 AD. From here we continue through rolling Kent fields, rewarded with views of the impressive **Eynsford Rail Viaduct**, its nine red-brick arches towering 22 metres above the valley floor. Our hike concludes in the charming village of **Eynsford**, where we explore the evocative ruins of **Eynsford Castle**, a Norman stronghold built in 1088. With its riverside setting, ancient remains and traditional cottages, the village provides a perfect finale to a day steeped in history and countryside beauty. 🧭 **Guide:** • Leader: [JOHN](https://www.outdooraholics.co.uk/MeetTheOutdooraholics.pdf) • Contact (hike day only): 07508 511026 🍽️ **Food:** • Bring a packed lunch • Pub visit after the hike (drinks optional) 🎒**What to Bring** • Hiking boots/shoes • Water (2 litres minimum) • Packed lunch • Waterproofs (jacket and trousers) • Hat and gloves if cold • Train tickets are arranged – just meet us at the meeting point ⚠️ **Safety** Your guide is a trained hike leader and Outdoor Activity First Aider ❓ **Want to Know More?** • [New to Our Trips?](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/new_to_our_day_hikes.pdf) (perfect for first-timers, answers “what to expect”) • [About Us](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/about_us.pdf) (who Outdooraholics are, credibility, history) • [FAQs](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf) (covers common queries) 📲 **Explore More &** **Stay Connected** [Day hikes list](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/hikesbygrade.pdf) 👣 [Calendar - All trips](https://www.meetup.com/outdooraholics/events/calendar/) 📖 [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/outdooraholics/) 📸 [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/Outdooraholics) & [Photos group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/Outdooraholics) 📄 **Terms and Conditions** By signing up or attending you agree to our [Terms and Conditions](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/TermsConditionsOutdooraholicsHikingUK.pdf) © Outdooraholics Hiking UK Ltd 2026 E & OE

The only Metro Park with a fire tower! **History** [Scioto Grove Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/scioto-grove/) officially became the 19th park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system when it opened to the public on May 6, 2016. Located along a scenic bend of the Scioto River in Grove City, just south of Columbus, the 620-acre park was designed to blend preservation with modern recreation. Long before it became a park, this river corridor served as a vital footpath and trade route for Indigenous communities. Decades later, the mature forests and dramatic river bluffs caught the eye of conservationists looking to expand regional green spaces. The grand opening was a major milestone, drawing over 19,000 visitors in its very first weekend. The creation of the park was made possible through a sequence of land acquisitions and strong community partnerships. In October 2009, Franklin County voters approved a critical property tax levy that funded the initial purchase of 66 acres. Shortly after, the City of Grove City generously donated nearly 193 acres of land, previously known as Talbot Park, to anchor the project. Additional parcels were acquired using state grants from the Clean Ohio Conservation Fund, successfully closing the gap between properties by December 2012. This collaborative funding model ensured that pristine wilderness areas remained completely protected from commercial development. From its inception, the park aimed to introduce innovative amenities to the regional park system, most notably the concept of "urban backpacking". Through a key partnership with the outdoor gear retailer REI Co-op, the park established the scenic REI River Trail. This trail features five rustic, reservation-only campsites along the river, specifically designed to give newcomers a safe place to practice backpacking close to home. Additionally, planners prioritized making the park fully pet-friendly, allowing leashed dogs across all trails and areas. This open-pet policy uniquely distinguished Scioto Grove from many other traditional Columbus Metro Parks. As the park grew in popularity, community members established special commemorative landmarks to honor local lives. In June 2019, a dedicated memorial garden was unveiled near the park entrance in memory of Reagan Tokes, an Ohio State University student. The serene space features a central pond bordered by bright blue flowers, representing her favorite color. A primary buckeye tree stands alongside a dedicated plaque, surrounded by four additional buckeye trees to represent her immediate family members. This addition transformed a portion of the park into a meaningful place for community reflection, healing, and peace. The historical depth of the park took a significant leap forward with the relocation of a massive piece of Ohio history. In August 2023, Metro Parks officially unveiled the Keystone Forest Lookout Tower, which had been carefully moved from Jackson County, Ohio. Originally constructed in 1942 by the Aermotor Windmill Company, the 82-foot-tall metal structure spent decades guarding southern Ohio’s vast forests from devastating wildfires. Workers painstakingly disassembled, re-galvanized, and reassembled the historic landmark at Scioto Grove. Today, visitors can climb its 111 steep steps to experience a panoramic view stretching all the way to the downtown Columbus skyline. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Scioto Grove](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/SGR-map_1980px_2026.jpg). **Summary** We will hike around 5 miles on the Overlook, REI River, Mingo, and Arrowhead Trails. While the configuration of the trails can lead us to occasionally taking longer hikes than at other parks, Scioto Grove is not generally a very strenuous place to hike. If you use hiking poles and inadvertently forget them, this is not a park where you're likely to end up caring that much. That said, Scioto Grove is one of the better Metro Parks for hiking as well as other things. They are the only Metro Park with five camping areas where you can literally pitch a tent and sleep for the night. You must contact the park and reserve these in advance; they are however free. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet at the Arrowhead Picnic Area, near the restrooms and playground. Arrowhead is the main picnic and parking area of the park, and it also has the only water fountain at Scioto Grove. **After the Hike** Afterward, we will head over to [Grove City Brewing](https://www.grovecitybrewery.com/) for [drinks and food](https://www.grovecitybrewery.com/menu). They have pretty good hamburgers. I was mortified to discover that I've never had their [Grove City Hooyah](https://www.beermenus.com/beers/486553-grove-city-hooyah) before, but I will correct that during this event. The actual address of the brewery is [3946 Broadway, Grove City, OH 43123](https://www.google.com/maps/place/3946+Broadway,+Grove+City,+OH+43123/@39.8836912,-83.0919635,16z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88389b3a28d0f4ad:0x3d85c41f608406c6!8m2!3d39.8836912!4d-83.0919635!16s%2Fg%2F11g8dh6h1_?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAwOS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.

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 at the Maple Grove picnic area for a 4 mile hike at 18 min/mile pace.

Meet at the Nature Center parking lot at Blendon Woods to hike the Sugarbush, Hickory Ridge, Overlook, and Brookside trails approximately 4 miles at 18 min/mile pace.