Nature Walks with Dogs

### 🧘‍♀️🍻 Yog’Apéro – 🌟🌟 **Bouge, respire, rencontre !** ### Tous les mercredis à Charonne ! Envie de bouger, te détendre et rencontrer du monde dans une ambiance fun ? Moi c’est Pauline **([@poppyyoga_](https://www.instagram.com/poppyyoga_))**, ta prof de yoga. On se retrouve pour **1h de yoga fun, dynamique et accessible à tous les niveaux, suivie d’un apéro convivial au bar d’en face** 🍻. 📍 **Où ?** Atelier 77, rue de Charonne, Paris 11 ⏰ **Quand ?** Tous les mercredis, de 20h à 21h (arrive à 19h50/55 MAX) 💸 **Tarif :** 12€ le cours. Consos au bar à votre charge. ⚡ **Réservation obligatoire** : ton inscription est confirmée uniquement après paiement via **Lydia** ou **Wero** 👉 [[pauline.poppyyoga@gmail.com](mailto:pauline.poppyyoga@gmail.com) ou ou n° portable sur le groupe Whatsapp] et indique: "***nom/yoga/date***" 📲 **Rejoins la communauté** ! 👉 [Groupe WhatsApp dédié ](https://chat.whatsapp.com/LTqFqtTK9xp6aJ46abM2Uc)\*\*pour les infos pratiques (codes d’entrée, etc.) & échanges. 🧺 **À apporter** : * 👕 Une tenue confortable * 🧘‍♀️ **Ton tapis** de yoga ou de sport * 💦 Une gourde ou bouteille d’eau * 😊 Ta bonne énergie ! Alors, tu viens tester l’expérience ? Pauline/ [@poppyyoga_](https://www.instagram.com/poppyyoga_) ❌ **Politique d’annulation :** *\- remboursement jusqu’à **12h avant** le cours, report possible jusqu'à 6h avant le cours, sinon cours dû.* * *Si le cours a moins de 5 élèves confirmés, le professeur se réserve le droit d’annuler le cours jusqu’au mercredi 16h00.*

*Hello everyone! * Join us to meet people from all over the world in a friendly atmosphere. Participants are Russian, Spanish, Greek, Italian, French, Ukrainian, Indian… They come from everywhere – it’s the international afterwork! We’re here for a friendly meetup!!! **Concept** Internationals and Parisians gather to talk with everyone, in all languages! On arrival, ask the organizer for a numbered sticker. It’s also an icebreaker game: find the person with the same number as you and both of you win a free shot or a small cocktail tasting to break the ice! You can arrive whenever it suits you, but the earlier you come, the better to enjoy the vibe. **Practical info:** Time: 7pm – 10:30pm Free with the pass to collect on the free Socializus app WhatsApp for quick info: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/BLqzcnC8SmbDBfYouCiOye](https://chat.whatsapp.com/BLqzcnC8SmbDBfYouCiOye) **How to join:** * Check the exact address with the free app and free pass: [www.socializus.org](http://www.socializus.org) * Support the association to cover meetup costs with an annual membership card here: [https://www.placeminute.com/event/afterwork/apero-linguistique-dans-un-bar-secret,36046.html](https://www.placeminute.com/event/afterwork/apero-linguistique-dans-un-bar-secret,36046.html) **Stay connected everywhere:** Meetup – [https://www.meetup.com/internationals-events-paris/](https://www.meetup.com/internationals-events-paris/) WhatsApp (info & reminders): [https://chat.whatsapp.com/BLqzcnC8SmbDBfYouCiOye](https://chat.whatsapp.com/BLqzcnC8SmbDBfYouCiOye) (Activate “Receive all” to not miss anything!) Facebook Group – [https://www.facebook.com/socializing.with.internationals.in.Paris/](https://www.facebook.com/socializing.with.internationals.in.Paris/) Facebook Page – Photos & updates: [https://www.facebook.com/socializing.with.internationals.in.Paris/](https://www.facebook.com/socializing.with.internationals.in.Paris/) Socializus: [www.socializus.org](http://www.socializus.org) Become an Organizer: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/KtR79S8Obfs3WTPTIBsoCm](https://chat.whatsapp.com/KtR79S8Obfs3WTPTIBsoCm) and get a free drink It’s 100% free because we’re a non-profit association with the goal of creating friendly encounters. ✦✦ Last-minute changes may happen, but everything is updated via the app with the free pass. To better manage the number of participants, we rely on registrations with the free pass. Sign up only if you’re sure to come – we’re counting on you! / By joining, you agree to be photographed and/or filmed. Photos and videos may be shared on our social networks or used commercially. You may also share your own photos with #socializus

Learning how to draw still life, portrait, landscape? I will help you set up the composition and instruct you to draw everything you want with your pencils and your colours. The environment is friendly. This course is for beginners as well as those who want to improve their techniques. We will have a small snack break to exchange ideas and get to know each other. Everyone brings his/her own materials such as sketchbooks, papers, pencils or watercolour. Comment apprendre à dessiner une nature morte, un portrait, d'après nature? Je vous guiderai, et vous aiderai à faire la mise en place, la composition, afin de représenter tout ce que vous avez envie, avec vos crayons et vos couleurs . L'ambiance de l'atelier est très conviviale . Ce cours s'adresse aux débutants, ainsi qu'aux dessinateurs qui veulent se perfectionner. Nous prendrons une petites collation, et l'on pourra échanger ses impressions et se connaître. Chacun amène son materiel, carnets, papiers et crayons ou aquarelle. CE COURS SERA Á 14H30 JUSQU'Á 16H30

📆 **Every Wednesday**, join an exclusive table of ambitious founders in a handpicked venue. 💡 *You are the average of the 5 people you spend the most time with.* **Choose your circle wisely — it will shape your future.** 🔗 Application required: [thefiveclub.co](https://thefiveclub.co) *** 🥂 **Every Wednesday**, join a table of **6 inspiring founders**, carefully selected for you. 😌 A relaxed atmosphere, no pressure. 🤝 The goal: build genuine affinities, friendships, and long-lasting connections. *** 🔍 **How it works:** 🔴 Sign Up & Apply on : [thefiveclub.co](thefiveclub.co) 1️⃣ Pick a Wednesday and confirm your **membership** to join the club 2️⃣ Invite members you've previously met at afterworks or dinners 3️⃣ 24h before, you’ll receive the 📍 **restaurant address** and 🧑‍💼 **participant list** (bios + LinkedIn) 4️⃣ On the day: come as you are — we handle the 🍽️ booking, 🛠️ logistics, and ✨ ambiance 5️⃣ After the dinner: Add to your circle the founders you connected with most, 6️⃣ Reinvite them to future dinners or reconnect via curated events in the app 📲 ***

🕉️ Dear Yogi, I’m happy to invite you to Vinyasa Yoga class with me at L’échappée Community Center 🙏🏻 What to expect: 75 min class with pranayama practices, gentle flow to open up our bodies mixed with asanas to help create stability in our thoughts and our body 🌀 Small groups: up to 15 people for a more targeted approach with attention to each and everyone❣️ Price: 15€ Please bring your own mat or indicate if you need one🙏🏻 About myself: I’ve been practicing professional sports since the age of 4, which gave me a deep and intuitive connection to the body. This background allows me to offer a precise and accessible way for people to become more conscious of their own bodies. I discovered yoga in 2012 and have been an active, dedicated practitioner ever since 🧘🏼‍♀️ In 2021, I completed my yoga teacher certification and have since been sharing the practice with many people in France and abroad 🌍 I continue to learn and grow constantly, and most recently spent time in India connecting more deeply with the yogic way of living. I’m now happy to share this experience and practice with you 🤗 Classes are open to **all levels**. You’ll also join a **warm, supportive community** where progress happens together. ⚠️ **Payment & policy** * Payments via PayPal: please select *“Friends & Family”* * Class is non-refundable if canceled less than 24h in advance

✅ Do you want to improve your English Speaking skills? ✅ Do you want more confidence speaking to friends and colleagues in English? ✅ Do you want to speak and learn from a native teacher? ✅ Tired of boring, traditional English classes? My name is Belinda and I'm a professional and experienced English teacher. I have students throughout the world and can help you with whatever English needs you have in the following areas: ✅ Business meeting and presentation preparation ✅ CV review, analysis, correction and advice ✅ Interview preparation ✅ Grammar, Vocabulary and Conversation These 60 minutes classes will help you gain confidence, expand your vocabulary and improve your pronunciation. ✅ Small group weekend classes also available (2 or 5 hour immersion classes) What do I have to do? ✍ Confirm your attendance by WhatsApp: +34 645 598 927 💵 Cost: 25€ ⌚ When: Classes available 7 days a week 🕖 Duration: 60 minutes 📍 Where: Online 👥 Group Size: Just you!

Passionné(e) de voyage solo, d'aventures et de terres inconnues. Marre d'attendre que les autres soient dispos pour cocher ta bucket list ? Viens passer une soirée avec des gens qui sont partis seuls, qui en reviennent, ou qui s'apprêtent à sauter le pas. On échange les anecdotes, les pires galères, les meilleures surprises et peut-être qu'on repart avec un(e) futur(e) compagnon de route. Un apéro convivial et sans prise de tête. On arrive seul(e), on repart avec une communauté. **Pour qui :** solo travelers basés à Paris, expatriés, curieux du monde, ceux qui rêvent encore de se lancer Je serai là pour accueillir tout le monde. English speakers very welcome. 📅 Mercredi à 19h 📍 Adresse révélée après inscription ✨ → justgutsy.com

⚔️ Événement 1VS1 ⚔️ Viens défier d’autres joueurs lors d’une soirée dédiée aux jeux de société en duel 🎲🔥 Affronte tes adversaires en 1 contre 1, teste tes stratégies et passe un moment convivial entre passionnés ! 10€ l'entrée avec un soda offert ! Que tu sois compétiteur ou juste là pour t’amuser, tout le monde est le bienvenu 🙌

Bastille → Port de l’Arsenal → Coulée verte → Viaduc des Arts → Marché d’Aligre → Jardin de Reuilly - Nation Je suis monitrice de randonnées profesionnelle et je vis dans cet arrondissement depuis 26 ans, donc je maîtrise parfaitement l'environnement. Je vais partager avec vous les meilleurs endroits et mes adresses. A très bientôt !

Bonjour à tous ! Je vous propose une nouvelle randonnée jeudi prochain, le 14 mai. Nous partirons pour une marche d'une vingtaine de km au départ de la gare de Louveciennes. Nous traverserons notamment les Bois de Louveciennes, la Celle Saint-Cloud, le bois de Fausses Reposes et le parc de Saint Cloud. Nous suivrons en parti le tracé suivant: https://www.visorando.com/randonnee-de-louveciennes-au-parc-de-saint-cloud-e/ Je vous donne rendez vous directement au départ de la randonnée à la gare de Louveciennes (Ligne L) à 10h20. C'est une boucle, nous repartirons de la même gare. Comme d'habitude, cette randonnée est gratuite, excepté pour le transport, votre nourriture et votre matériel. Prévoyez donc votre pique-nique, barres d'énergie, votre eau (je conseille 3L minimum), et bien sur de bonnes chaussures. Contact si besoin : 06 34 21 20 92 Jérémie \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Hi! I am happy to organise a new hike on Thursday 14th May. It is a 20k hike, about 5 hours walking, we will mostly follow this hike: https://www.visorando.com/randonnee-de-louveciennes-au-parc-de-saint-cloud-e/ Meeting point will be directly at the beginning of the hike, at Louveciennes station at 10:20am (Line L). It is a loop, the return will be from the same station. This hike is free, except for transport, food and equipment. So you need to plan food for lunch, energy bars, water (I recommend 3L minimum), and of course good hiking shoes. Contact if needed: +336 34 21 20 92 Jérémie

Capture **Brutalist Architecture in Paris (16th Arrondissement)** Walk, shoot, and connect with photographers & creators. Beginners, enthusiasts, and pros — all are welcome. –––––––––– EVENT DETAILS **Date:** 16.05.2026 **Time:** 17:30 – 19:30 **Meeting Point:** [Le Monument Aux Morts De Paul Landowski](https://maps.app.goo.gl/uDfw9zi2mtYm6sQd9) –––––––––– EVENT FLOW **17:30** \| Meet & Connect We’ll gather at the meeting point, introduce ourselves, and warm up creatively. **17:50** \| Main Walk \(Golden Hour\) Capturing different Brutalist Buildings, Reflections and Structures. **19:30** → Optional dinner or drinks nearby. –––––––––– IMPORTANT This isn’t a class. It’s not a tour. It’s a creative meetup. We’ll walk. We’ll shoot. We’ll connect. –––––––––– WHAT TO EXPECT Bring your: • Film camera • Digital camera • Smartphone • Curiosity Whether you're a beginner, seasoned photographer, content creator, or just creatively curious — you’re welcome here. Come solo or bring friends. Spots are limited — reserve your place ASAP. –––––––––– **STAY CONNECTED** 📍 Join our [WhatsApp](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EyCHL9D1uLf46I11oPmegs?mode=gi_t) group for live location & updates. 📸 Follow [@takeaphotowalkcommunity](https://www.instagram.com/takeaphotowalkcommunity/) and tag us in your photos. –––––––––– **ABOUT TAKE A PHOTO WALK** Founded in Barcelona in July 2024, Take a Photo Walk connects photographers and creators around the world through real-life creative experiences. Now **Paris** is part of the story.

**Aujourd'hui nous allons découvrir les coins "nature" dans le 5eme arrondissement de Paris tout en passant rapidement dans le 4eme arrondissement :-)** **Groupe PEM whatsapp 0683208657 :** [https://chat.whatsapp.com/Gzyefv4Ev2bKE1JY3DExIN](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Gzyefv4Ev2bKE1JY3DExIN) (pour recevoir le programme de la semaine et avoir la localisation du groupe) **3 600 abonné(e)s** **Promenade nature "la Boucle de Maubert" : jardins, bord de Seine et fête gourmande.** **Prix (price) : 10 euros** **(Tarif 18/25 ans de 5 euros sur justificatif)** 13h30 / 16h environ Rendez-vous : Exit Subway Maubert Mutualité (line 10) (exit 1) / Sortie du métro Maubert Mutualité (ligne 10) (sortie 1) phone : 0683208657 · Passage par : \- le jardin des plantes \- les Arènes de Lutèce \- les bords de Seine \- un endroit ou il y aura plein de gourmandises\.\.\. \(nouveau\) ... ....................................... **Paris et l'île de France en 178 parcours (numéro / 178)** **Le règlement pourra se faire sur place en espèce ainsi qu'en ligne...** **Soit sur Billetweb :** **[https://www.billetweb.fr/pro/pem](https://www.billetweb.fr/pro/pem)** **Soit sur Wero (1h avant un événement) :** **[https://wero-wallet.eu/fr](https://wero-wallet.eu/fr)** **(mon phone 0683208657)** **Abonnements mensuel et annuel** à la date d'achat, qui revient à 25 euros par mois (que 5 abonnements en ligne) pour l'abonnement annuel et 42 euros par mois pour l'abonnement mensuel (que 10 abonnements en ligne) [https://www.billetweb.fr/pro/pem](https://www.billetweb.fr/pro/pem) **Aujourd'hui Rythme Niveaux 5 et 6 : autour de 4 km heure / 4,7 km heure \*\*** \*\* Les niveaux des promenades et des randonnées : Niveau 1 + de 6,2 km heure (Power Hike / Commando...) Niveau 2 : 5,7 km / 6,1 km heure (Rapide, pratiquement aucun arrêt du début à la fin) Niveau 3 : 5,2 km / 5,6 km heure (Soutenue, pratiquement aucun arrêt du début à la fin) Niveau 4 : 4,8 km / 5,2 km heure (Moyen +) **Niveau 5 : 4,5km / 4,9 km heure (Moyen -)** **Niveau 6 : 3,9 km / 4,4 km heure (intermédiaire)** Niveau 7 : Autour de 3,5 km heure (cool) Niveau 8 : Sous 3,5 km heure (méga cool) Il sera de votre responsabilité de garder les marcheurs de devant en vue et de suivre le sens de la marche **Le concept :** PEM axe + ses sorties sur les lieux insolites, les découvertes, la nature et le sport sur Paris et l'île de France. PEM organise pas de promenades ou de randonnées dans le style des conférenciers, ils sont assez nombreux sur Paris, ils sont très bons dans leur domaine et leurs tarifs, les durées de leurs événements et leurs vitesses de marche ne sont pas les mêmes que nous. Si possible à chaque fin de parcours nous allons prendre un verre. Vous aurez pas au cours d'une promenade ou d'une randonnée une conférence sur 'histoire de France" ou sur "l'histoire d'un quartier". Un guide papier avec l'historique du parcours vous seras donné en début de sortie. Le but premier c'est de discuter et d'échanger avec des personnes dans le groupe qui viennent de tous les univers et d'un peu partout dans le monde tout en découvrant une exposition cachée, un bar insolite, une pâtisserie qui sort de l'ordinaire, un trompe l'oeil, des enseignes classées, un musée inhabituel, des graffitis pratiquement illisibles, un marché improbable, une forêt, une ferme... :-) Nous sommes un groupe atypique. Au plaisir de vous voir lors d'un prochain événement :-) Pour recevoir le programme de la semaine vous pouvez aussi nous rejoindre sur le **Groupe PEM Telegram**[masked] : https://t.me/+S4tmmrfjwkYZzjOl Sur le **Groupe PEM Signal** : https://signal.group/#CjQKIJ0hU-el8dg9MS6z7WMSOJ746G68Kkc_tqc7orwMRHPLEhD3HbTMv2mCvbcWvSi808mC Sur le **Groupe PEM Viber** : https://invite.viber.com/?g=K3Z3oJaCmVEOWcAMXKNPqmGrkPmPIOtP Sur la **Page** **Instagram PEM** pour voir les photos et les vidéos des événements passés : https://www.instagram.com/pariseventsmeetup/?hl=fr A bientôt :-)

(en) Small unknown streets, a hidden garden seldom open to the public, memories of this neighbourhood's past, ... So much to discover in Ménilmontant! We'll meet on Place Krasucki, near the Pyrénées and Jourdain stations. We'll walk at a leisurely pace and even though there will be a small staircase to climb, it will all be easy. This is not a sports event, we're just coming to discover some of the secrets of Ménilmontant. Expect to spend 2 hours and we'll end by the Ménilmontant metro station . This is a pay as you will event. I think it's worth at least 15€. (fr) Des passages inconnus, un jardin caché et rarement ouvert, des traces du passé du quartier... Plein de choses à découvrir à Ménilmontant ! Rendez-vous sur la place Krasucki, pas loin des stations Pyrénées et Jourdain. On marchera tranquillement et même si on va avoir un petit escalier à monter, ça restera facile. Ça n'est pas une promenade sportive, on vient pour découvrir quelques uns des secrets de Ménilmontant. Prevoir 2h et on finira au niveau du metro Ménilmontant. Prix libre. Suggéré : 15€

Join us this Thursday (5/14) at 6:30 pm at Rocky Fork Metro Park in Westerville as we walk about 2.5 miles of a fully paved trail. The Beech Woodland trail is a flat yet scenic trail with a variety of landscapes. Let’s take it in together!

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.

[The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations. If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!). **HOW IT WORKS** **Step 1: Bring a topic** Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event. **Step 2: Circle up & share** We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds. **Step 3: Walk, talk & float** We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!" **Step 4: Feel more alive** Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times. *For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)* **HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC** A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about. Recent topics include: * "What are you passionate about right now?" * "What makes a good friend?" * "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?" * "How do you want to be remembered?" * "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?" Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter. **WHAT TO EXPECT** This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.* But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here. **FAQ** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space. * Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know. * Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **LOGISTICS** * If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs. * There's a restroom along the route at [Tuttle Park Community Center](https://maps.app.goo.gl/KTZJgLE1CrrbRNmJ7), which is about two‑thirds of the way from [Clinton-Como Park](https://maps.app.goo.gl/z8Cx8evwLiWundMe8) to our [turnback point](https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZXk7qUVszLQ8EJxHA). * Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details. * If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋 **IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...** [The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up. * This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).

**Not everyone will come. That is exactly why you should.** **Two for Tuesdays** is for the people who actually want to get out and do something instead of just talking about it. We’re kicking off the night with a one-hour social walk before Duckpin Social. **Expect a laid-back** But an Intentional 1 hour walk (2-3 miles), good people, and a better way to spend your Tuesday than staying home and doing the same thing you always do. **If the weather does not cooperate, we’ll move indoors.** **This is a paid event.** A small contribution helps keeps events sustainable and ensures those **who RSVP actually show up.** Payment **Link Found in comments** or you can pay on Venmo, Paypal, @WiseUnlimitedLLC or Cashapp $WiseUnlimitedLLC. Walk RSVP **$2** Walk / DuckPin Social **$5** Walk / DuckPin Social + 1 game of duckpin **$12** Please be sure **to Put Event and Event Date** in the note when paying RSVP Fee

**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.