Kayaking, Canoeing, Weekend Retreats
Meet other local people interested in Kayaking, Canoeing, Weekend Retreats: share experiences, inspire and encourage each other! Join a Kayaking, Canoeing, Weekend Retreats group.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out kayaking, canoeing, weekend retreats events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the kayaking, canoeing, weekend retreats events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find kayaking, canoeing, weekend retreats events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Kayaking, Canoeing, Weekend Retreats Events Today
Join in-person Kayaking, Canoeing, Weekend Retreats events happening right now
Κορακοβούνι (Βόρειος Υμηττός)
📅Την Κυριακή 19 Απριλίου, ώρα 16:00 και σχεδόν στην καρδιά της Άνοιξης, ξεκινάμε από την μονή Αγίου Ιωάννη Κυνηγού στην Αγία Παρασκευή για να πιάσουμε μία από τις κορυφές του Υμηττού. Την κορυφή Κορακοβούνι!
🎋 Πρόκειται για μία όμορφη ημικυκλική διαδρομή 8,5 χιλιομέτρων στον Βόρειο Υμηττό, με αρκετές εναλλαγές τοπίων αλλά και γεμάτη με εντυπωσιακά σημεία θέας προς το λεκανοπέδιο!
(Δείτε τις φώτο πιο κάτω)
Στη πορεία μας θα συναντήσουμε και το περιβόητο σπήλαιο λιονταριού! Το όνομα του σπηλαίου δεν είναι τυχαίο. Περισσότερες λεπτομέρειες στο σημείο.
⚠️ ΠΡΟΣΟΧΗ:
Η διαδρομή αν και σχετικά μικρής απόστασης ΔΕΝ λογίζεται ως εύκολη ή κατάλληλη για αρχάριους. Το πρώτο μισό της διαδρομής έχει ανοδική κλίση, ή όποια σε διάφορα σημεία αυξομειώνεται. Το δεύτερο μισό έχει και κάποια σημεία με έντονη καθοδική κλίση. Επίσης το 80% της διαδρομής είναι μέσα από μονοπάτια.
⌛ Η διάρκεια της μετρήθηκε επί τόπου με scouting στις 3 ώρες, ωστόσο για όσους επιχειρήσουν να το τολμήσουν, ας γνωρίζουν ότι ο ρυθμός θα είναι απόλυτα χαλαρός, με μπόλικα διαλείμματα και χωρίς πίεση χρόνου. Γι αυτό επιβάλεται να πάρετε μαζί σας και φακό. Διότι δεν ξέρουμε αν οι 3 ώρες γίνουν 5 στο τέλος λόγω μείωσης του ρυθμού βάδισης ή της αύξησης αριθμού στάσεων! 🤷🏻♂️
Εκτός από φακό, μαζί σας πρέπει να έχετε και:
💧 ΤΟΥΛΑΧΙΣΤΟΝ 1 λίτρο νερό. Ιδανικά 1,5.
👟Αντιολισθητικά υποδήματα
🧢 Καπέλο (προαιρετικά)
🦯 Όσοι έχουν μπατόν ας τα φέρουν θα φανούν χρήσιμα. Και όσοι δεν έχουν, αν σκέφτονται να αγοράσουν, μάλλον τώρα είναι η κατάλληλη ώρα. Δεν θα το μετανιώσουν. Ειδικά όσοι δεν έχουν πολύ καλή φυσική κατάσταση. 😎
Επίσης απαραίτητο κρίνεται:
😋Την προηγούμενη μέρα να έχετε φάει καλά.
🍌🥜 Την ημέρα της δραστηριότητας να έχετε κομμένα νύχια ποδιών (ναι!) και μαζί σας ενεργειακά σνακ όπως, μπανάνες, σταφίδες, ξηρούς καρπούς ή έστω ενεργειακές μπάρες.
🗺️ Εδώ είναι το ακριβές [στίγμα συνάντησης](https://maps.app.goo.gl/68xZp6Y8rpc56eJg9) 👈🏻
✍🏻 Συμμετοχή μπορείτε να δηλώσετε μόνο μέσα από αυτή [την φόρμα](https://luma.com/ktax0bjb)[ ](https://luma.com/6rnovtzz)👈🏻
Coffee & Chat at 12pm@En Aithria
Coffee & Chat (& Brunch)
Come and make new friends this Sunday over a nice coffee & chat (& Brunch), the perfect way to end the weekend.
Everyone is welcome, International & Greek, meeting in English (but other languages are welcome)
Let's meet at En Aithria from 12 to 16/17. Ask for the coffee group
https://maps.app.goo.gl/ecdSiXxg6sT8h6kF7
+32486805343 Whatsapp
Looking forward to seeing you all there!
Hashing at VEIKOU PARK [Galatsi]!
Run: 2321-ish
Venue: VEIKOU PARK – GALATSI – meeting point on IRAS street [ see link below]
On inn: some local taverna that Google recommends..
**MisDirections: Look for the Blue H\*sh Flag!! [see coordinates below]**
**LOCATION**
MAP LINK [https://maps.app.goo.gl/mas61CDiRZBUFeSg9?g_st=iwb](https://maps.app.goo.gl/mas61CDiRZBUFeSg9?g_st=iwb)
Saturday Social at Mint Bar – Meet, Talk & See Where the Night Goes
Jump in our whtsapp group,introduce yourself, start connect,put your ideas and lets hangout and make friends
https://chat.whatsapp.com/EDf4HaUjK4gLMMQeiOsllt
✨ Start Your Night With People, Not Noise ✨
Saturday night at Mint Bar isn’t about standing alone with a drink 🍸
It’s about arriving somewhere you’re already expected 🤍
This is a social meetup where people actually talk 💬 laugh 😄 move around 🚶♂️🚶♀️ and connect—naturally, without forcing anything ✨
Think of it as the starting point of your night 🌙
A place to warm up 🔥 meet people 🤝 feel the vibe 🎶 and see where the evening wants to go ✨
🌊 How the Night Flows
We gather around the big tables first 🪑🪑
Easy group conversations 💬 No pressure. No “who do I talk to?” 🙌
From there, the night opens up ✨
• People rotate naturally 🔄
• Small chats turn into bigger ones 🗣️➡️🗣️🗣️
• You meet someone new without trying too hard 😊
• Sometimes we dance 💃🕺 sometimes we don’t 🚶♀️
• The vibe decides 🎧✨
You’re free to move 🚶 stay 🪑 join 🤝 step back 🌿 rejoin 🔄
Nothing is fixed. Everything is fluid 🌊
🤍 You’re Not Walking In Alone
I’ll be there the whole night 🙋♂️
Welcoming people 👋 introducing faces 🤝 connecting energy ⚡
If you come solo 🚶♂️ you won’t stay solo—unless you want to 😊
This event brings together people from multiple social networks & platforms 🌍📲
Different backgrounds 🌎 different circles 🔵🟢🟣 same open mindset ✨
Every week:
New faces ✨
Familiar smiles 🙂
Easy connections 🤍
🎶 The Atmosphere
• Social & warm 🤍
• Music that supports conversation 💬 then lifts the room 🎶
• Open-air space 🌿 room to breathe 😌
• Friendly, curious, respectful people ✨
Easy to join 🤝
Easy to stay 🪑
Easy to feel part of it 🤍
🍹 Community Drink Prices
Vodka Portokali / Whiskey Cola / Gin & Tonic — €7
Sangria — €3 🍷
Shots — €2.5 🥃
📍 Logistics
📌 Mint Bar
https://maps.app.goo.gl/Ffi2B7Riw73TJM4Q9
🕤 Start: 21:30
⏳ End: when the night naturally evolves ✨
🎟 Entry: FREE
Just say you’re with the community 🤍
👕 No dress code
Comfort > fashion 😌
🚇 Getting Around
Saturday nights in Athens run smoothly 🌃
🚇 Metro all night
🚌 24h buses
Safe, easy, stress-free travel ✨
🌟 Why This Works
No plan needed 🧠
No friends required 👥
No pressure to stay 🕊️
Come for one drink 🍸
Stay for the people 🤍
Leave with a smile 😄
For many, this becomes:
✨ The start of the night
✨ The place they meet their people
✨ The reason the night turns memorable
💫 Final Thought
Some nights start with music 🎶
Better nights start with people 🤍
This is where we gather 🤝
Connect ✨
And let the night take shape 🌙
See you Saturday 💫
Follow us on instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/athenslocalstravellers?igsh=MWM4MTh4c2p5M3NxdA==
Mamad – The organiser of Athens locals&Travellers events
#LanguageExchange #Travelers #Locals #Nightlife #BarLife #PubVibes #PartyTime #SocialEvent #MeetFriends #MeetNewPeople #Conversation #Chat #Dating #RelationshipGoals #Connection #Singles #AdventureTime #FunNight #GoingOut #SoloNight #Drinks #Cocktails #MusicLovers #DJNight #DanceParty #ClubVibes #WeekendVibes #MeetupGroup #InternationalFriends #ExpatsLife #TouristsInAthens #CityLife #UrbanCulture #Ταξιδιώτες #Ντόπιοι #ΝυχτερινήΖωή #Μπαρ #Πάρτι #Κοινωνικό #Εκδήλωση #Φίλοι #Γνωριμίες #Κουβέντα #Συζήτηση #Ραντεβού #Σχέση #Σύνδεση #Σινγκλς #Περιπέτεια #Διασκέδαση #Έξοδος #Μόνος #Ποτά #Κοκτέιλ #Μουσική #Χορός #Κλαμπ #VibesΠάρτι #Σαββατοκύριακο #ΟμάδαMeetup #Διεθνές #Εξάπτες #Τουρίστες #ΖωήΠόλης #Πολιτισμός #Εξερεύνηση #Κοινότητα #Κοινωνικοποίηση #Δικτύωση #ΒραδινήΈξοδος #Φιλία #Lifestyle #ΤοπικοίΟδηγοί #ΤαξιδιωτικέςΣυμβουλές #HangoutSpot #ΔιασκεδαστικήΝύχτα #ΣχέδιαΣαββατοκύριακου
Shut Up & Write!® [PIRAEUS / Athens]
Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done.
SCHEDULE:
11:00 - quick intros.
11:15 - timer starts: write for 1 hour.
12:15 - (the end) chat / take off / keep writing / socialising.
Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled, then check-in with me after the session. If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you at To Theatron!
What Should I Bring?
Whatever you need to be able to write! Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block the cafe’s overhead music or the occasional conversation by other patrons. Ideally come with your laptop fully charged in case there are not enough plugs for everyone.
Other Important Details:
-Theatron is close to the newly-opened metro station Dimotiko Theatro. The tram also stops right outside, and there are several bus stops nearby.
-There is a parking service nearby on Kountouriotou 137 if you are unable to find a parking space.
-Please thank our hosts by purchasing something.
Sunday Basketball Pickup Game in Athens. Sign up at www.basketble.com
Book your place at www.basketble.com
Time: 17.00-18.30 (Athens Time)
Duration: 1.5 hours
Price: 10 Euros (payment at the basketball court)
Facilities: Underground parking
Game Setup (depending on the number of players)
3 teams of 5 players playing against each other
Winner stays on but maximum 2 games
7 minute games
You can play in the same team with your friends or we will place you in a team
Come Out and Play!
Kayaking, Canoeing, Weekend Retreats Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Κορακοβούνι (Βόρειος Υμηττός)
📅Την Κυριακή 19 Απριλίου, ώρα 16:00 και σχεδόν στην καρδιά της Άνοιξης, ξεκινάμε από την μονή Αγίου Ιωάννη Κυνηγού στην Αγία Παρασκευή για να πιάσουμε μία από τις κορυφές του Υμηττού. Την κορυφή Κορακοβούνι!
🎋 Πρόκειται για μία όμορφη ημικυκλική διαδρομή 8,5 χιλιομέτρων στον Βόρειο Υμηττό, με αρκετές εναλλαγές τοπίων αλλά και γεμάτη με εντυπωσιακά σημεία θέας προς το λεκανοπέδιο!
(Δείτε τις φώτο πιο κάτω)
Στη πορεία μας θα συναντήσουμε και το περιβόητο σπήλαιο λιονταριού! Το όνομα του σπηλαίου δεν είναι τυχαίο. Περισσότερες λεπτομέρειες στο σημείο.
⚠️ ΠΡΟΣΟΧΗ:
Η διαδρομή αν και σχετικά μικρής απόστασης ΔΕΝ λογίζεται ως εύκολη ή κατάλληλη για αρχάριους. Το πρώτο μισό της διαδρομής έχει ανοδική κλίση, ή όποια σε διάφορα σημεία αυξομειώνεται. Το δεύτερο μισό έχει και κάποια σημεία με έντονη καθοδική κλίση. Επίσης το 80% της διαδρομής είναι μέσα από μονοπάτια.
⌛ Η διάρκεια της μετρήθηκε επί τόπου με scouting στις 3 ώρες, ωστόσο για όσους επιχειρήσουν να το τολμήσουν, ας γνωρίζουν ότι ο ρυθμός θα είναι απόλυτα χαλαρός, με μπόλικα διαλείμματα και χωρίς πίεση χρόνου. Γι αυτό επιβάλεται να πάρετε μαζί σας και φακό. Διότι δεν ξέρουμε αν οι 3 ώρες γίνουν 5 στο τέλος λόγω μείωσης του ρυθμού βάδισης ή της αύξησης αριθμού στάσεων! 🤷🏻♂️
Εκτός από φακό, μαζί σας πρέπει να έχετε και:
💧 ΤΟΥΛΑΧΙΣΤΟΝ 1 λίτρο νερό. Ιδανικά 1,5.
👟Αντιολισθητικά υποδήματα
🧢 Καπέλο (προαιρετικά)
🦯 Όσοι έχουν μπατόν ας τα φέρουν θα φανούν χρήσιμα. Και όσοι δεν έχουν, αν σκέφτονται να αγοράσουν, μάλλον τώρα είναι η κατάλληλη ώρα. Δεν θα το μετανιώσουν. Ειδικά όσοι δεν έχουν πολύ καλή φυσική κατάσταση. 😎
Επίσης απαραίτητο κρίνεται:
😋Την προηγούμενη μέρα να έχετε φάει καλά.
🍌🥜 Την ημέρα της δραστηριότητας να έχετε κομμένα νύχια ποδιών (ναι!) και μαζί σας ενεργειακά σνακ όπως, μπανάνες, σταφίδες, ξηρούς καρπούς ή έστω ενεργειακές μπάρες.
🗺️ Εδώ είναι το ακριβές [στίγμα συνάντησης](https://maps.app.goo.gl/68xZp6Y8rpc56eJg9) 👈🏻
✍🏻 Συμμετοχή μπορείτε να δηλώσετε μόνο μέσα από αυτή [την φόρμα](https://luma.com/ktax0bjb)[ ](https://luma.com/6rnovtzz)👈🏻
Coffee & Chat at 12pm@En Aithria
Coffee & Chat (& Brunch)
Come and make new friends this Sunday over a nice coffee & chat (& Brunch), the perfect way to end the weekend.
Everyone is welcome, International & Greek, meeting in English (but other languages are welcome)
Let's meet at En Aithria from 12 to 16/17. Ask for the coffee group
https://maps.app.goo.gl/ecdSiXxg6sT8h6kF7
+32486805343 Whatsapp
Looking forward to seeing you all there!
Hashing at VEIKOU PARK [Galatsi]!
Run: 2321-ish
Venue: VEIKOU PARK – GALATSI – meeting point on IRAS street [ see link below]
On inn: some local taverna that Google recommends..
**MisDirections: Look for the Blue H\*sh Flag!! [see coordinates below]**
**LOCATION**
MAP LINK [https://maps.app.goo.gl/mas61CDiRZBUFeSg9?g_st=iwb](https://maps.app.goo.gl/mas61CDiRZBUFeSg9?g_st=iwb)
Saturday Social at Mint Bar – Meet, Talk & See Where the Night Goes
Jump in our whtsapp group,introduce yourself, start connect,put your ideas and lets hangout and make friends
https://chat.whatsapp.com/EDf4HaUjK4gLMMQeiOsllt
✨ Start Your Night With People, Not Noise ✨
Saturday night at Mint Bar isn’t about standing alone with a drink 🍸
It’s about arriving somewhere you’re already expected 🤍
This is a social meetup where people actually talk 💬 laugh 😄 move around 🚶♂️🚶♀️ and connect—naturally, without forcing anything ✨
Think of it as the starting point of your night 🌙
A place to warm up 🔥 meet people 🤝 feel the vibe 🎶 and see where the evening wants to go ✨
🌊 How the Night Flows
We gather around the big tables first 🪑🪑
Easy group conversations 💬 No pressure. No “who do I talk to?” 🙌
From there, the night opens up ✨
• People rotate naturally 🔄
• Small chats turn into bigger ones 🗣️➡️🗣️🗣️
• You meet someone new without trying too hard 😊
• Sometimes we dance 💃🕺 sometimes we don’t 🚶♀️
• The vibe decides 🎧✨
You’re free to move 🚶 stay 🪑 join 🤝 step back 🌿 rejoin 🔄
Nothing is fixed. Everything is fluid 🌊
🤍 You’re Not Walking In Alone
I’ll be there the whole night 🙋♂️
Welcoming people 👋 introducing faces 🤝 connecting energy ⚡
If you come solo 🚶♂️ you won’t stay solo—unless you want to 😊
This event brings together people from multiple social networks & platforms 🌍📲
Different backgrounds 🌎 different circles 🔵🟢🟣 same open mindset ✨
Every week:
New faces ✨
Familiar smiles 🙂
Easy connections 🤍
🎶 The Atmosphere
• Social & warm 🤍
• Music that supports conversation 💬 then lifts the room 🎶
• Open-air space 🌿 room to breathe 😌
• Friendly, curious, respectful people ✨
Easy to join 🤝
Easy to stay 🪑
Easy to feel part of it 🤍
🍹 Community Drink Prices
Vodka Portokali / Whiskey Cola / Gin & Tonic — €7
Sangria — €3 🍷
Shots — €2.5 🥃
📍 Logistics
📌 Mint Bar
https://maps.app.goo.gl/Ffi2B7Riw73TJM4Q9
🕤 Start: 21:30
⏳ End: when the night naturally evolves ✨
🎟 Entry: FREE
Just say you’re with the community 🤍
👕 No dress code
Comfort > fashion 😌
🚇 Getting Around
Saturday nights in Athens run smoothly 🌃
🚇 Metro all night
🚌 24h buses
Safe, easy, stress-free travel ✨
🌟 Why This Works
No plan needed 🧠
No friends required 👥
No pressure to stay 🕊️
Come for one drink 🍸
Stay for the people 🤍
Leave with a smile 😄
For many, this becomes:
✨ The start of the night
✨ The place they meet their people
✨ The reason the night turns memorable
💫 Final Thought
Some nights start with music 🎶
Better nights start with people 🤍
This is where we gather 🤝
Connect ✨
And let the night take shape 🌙
See you Saturday 💫
Follow us on instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/athenslocalstravellers?igsh=MWM4MTh4c2p5M3NxdA==
Mamad – The organiser of Athens locals&Travellers events
#LanguageExchange #Travelers #Locals #Nightlife #BarLife #PubVibes #PartyTime #SocialEvent #MeetFriends #MeetNewPeople #Conversation #Chat #Dating #RelationshipGoals #Connection #Singles #AdventureTime #FunNight #GoingOut #SoloNight #Drinks #Cocktails #MusicLovers #DJNight #DanceParty #ClubVibes #WeekendVibes #MeetupGroup #InternationalFriends #ExpatsLife #TouristsInAthens #CityLife #UrbanCulture #Ταξιδιώτες #Ντόπιοι #ΝυχτερινήΖωή #Μπαρ #Πάρτι #Κοινωνικό #Εκδήλωση #Φίλοι #Γνωριμίες #Κουβέντα #Συζήτηση #Ραντεβού #Σχέση #Σύνδεση #Σινγκλς #Περιπέτεια #Διασκέδαση #Έξοδος #Μόνος #Ποτά #Κοκτέιλ #Μουσική #Χορός #Κλαμπ #VibesΠάρτι #Σαββατοκύριακο #ΟμάδαMeetup #Διεθνές #Εξάπτες #Τουρίστες #ΖωήΠόλης #Πολιτισμός #Εξερεύνηση #Κοινότητα #Κοινωνικοποίηση #Δικτύωση #ΒραδινήΈξοδος #Φιλία #Lifestyle #ΤοπικοίΟδηγοί #ΤαξιδιωτικέςΣυμβουλές #HangoutSpot #ΔιασκεδαστικήΝύχτα #ΣχέδιαΣαββατοκύριακου
Shut Up & Write!® [PIRAEUS / Athens]
Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done.
SCHEDULE:
11:00 - quick intros.
11:15 - timer starts: write for 1 hour.
12:15 - (the end) chat / take off / keep writing / socialising.
Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled, then check-in with me after the session. If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you at To Theatron!
What Should I Bring?
Whatever you need to be able to write! Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block the cafe’s overhead music or the occasional conversation by other patrons. Ideally come with your laptop fully charged in case there are not enough plugs for everyone.
Other Important Details:
-Theatron is close to the newly-opened metro station Dimotiko Theatro. The tram also stops right outside, and there are several bus stops nearby.
-There is a parking service nearby on Kountouriotou 137 if you are unable to find a parking space.
-Please thank our hosts by purchasing something.
Sunday Basketball Pickup Game in Athens. Sign up at www.basketble.com
Book your place at www.basketble.com
Time: 17.00-18.30 (Athens Time)
Duration: 1.5 hours
Price: 10 Euros (payment at the basketball court)
Facilities: Underground parking
Game Setup (depending on the number of players)
3 teams of 5 players playing against each other
Winner stays on but maximum 2 games
7 minute games
You can play in the same team with your friends or we will place you in a team
Come Out and Play!
Kayaking, Canoeing, Weekend Retreats Events Near You
Connect with your local Kayaking, Canoeing, Weekend Retreats community
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.
American Sign Language Beginners Meetup Group
We meet to learn and practice American Sign Language and to grow our familiarity with Deaf culture. Facilitated by hearing folks (with a connection to a professional interpreter) using Deaf-created content. People of all ASL skill levels are welcome! As we learn, we hope to connect more with the Deaf community in Central Ohio. Join us as you're able!
Come regularly or just once - whatever you're looking for! Each meetup will explore different topics related to ASL/Deaf culture, and will feature time to practice conversation with one another. Just bring yourself and a willingness to learn!
Candle Making Night at The Arcane Foundry | Design Your Own Custom Candle
## Candle Making Night at The Arcane Foundry \| Design Your Own Custom Candle
**SPECIAL PROMOTION**: Buy 3 and get 1 Free!
Step into The Arcane Foundry and create your own custom candle from start to finish. This is a laid back, hands-on experience where **you’ll blend fragrances, choose your vessel, and pour your own candle using 100% soy wax**. Whether you’re coming solo or with friends, it’s designed to be simple, creative, and a good time.
We’ll walk you through the entire process, from picking your scents to choosing between a traditional cotton wick or a crackling wood wick. You can go with one fragrance or mix your own blend to create something completely unique**. No experience needed**, just show up and we’ll handle the rest.
While your candle sets, feel free to hang out, play a game, explore the shop, or just relax and talk. Drinks and snacks are available, and the atmosphere leans into the **fantasy**, **dark academia**, and **gothic horror** vibe The Arcane Foundry is known for.
Learn More: [Candle Making in Columbus, Ohio at The Arcane Foundry](https://thearcanefoundry.com/candle-making/)
***
### What to Expect:
* Guided candle making experience
* Choose your own vessel, wax, wick, and fragrance
* 100% soy wax candles
* Optional drinks and snacks
* Time to relax while your candle cools
***
### Important Notes:
* Please arrive on time so we can start together
* Candles will need time to set before taking home
* This is a beginner-friendly event
***
### RSVP Required
Reserve your spot on Meetup to lock in your seat.
**Candle Making** (includes vessel, your choice of wick, wax, scented oil, labels and lids)
5oz Glass Jars $15
8oz Candle Tins $25
12oz Glass Candles $35
12oz Amber Jars $40
16 oz Skull or Jack o Lantern Candle Mugs $65 (Limited Edition!)
**All materials included. You just bring yourself (and your drink of choice).**
**Payments accepted:**
* Credit Card
* Venmo: @Daclaud-Lee
* Cashapp: $DaclaudL


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