Outdoor Adventures

Meet: Canberra MRT Station (NS12) Passenger Service Centre When: Thursday 21st May - 5 pm Event communication will be through the event chat. Please check the event chat on the day of the event to stay updated on any changes.\*\*\* Start our journey from Canberra MRT as we walk towards Sembawang Park facing the Straits of Johor. Sembawang Park is one of the few parks with a naval history. During the war, it was used as the site of a Naval Base. Along the way, we will explore some tunnels and bunkers used during WWII, an ancient mosque, the secret beach, Eagle Point, Sembawang shipyard, and the colonial Black & White Houses built for the British Navy. We will end at Bukit Canberra hawker centre for dinner What to bring: \- Shades \- umbrellas \- Water \- Good walking shoes \- Long pants preferred \- Mosquito Repellent This is a Rain or Shine event. Where there are thunderstorms, we will adjourn for coffee or early dinner. We will resume the walk once the rain subsides. Event communication will be through the event chat. Please check the event chat on the day of the event so that you will be updated on any changes. Please try to be punctual. There will be 5 minutes grace for attendance taking. Please remember that we cannot wait because this would be unfair to those already present. Please keep in mind that I may not respond to messages sent after the walk starts because I will be busy helping the attendees and leading the walk. Please RSVP responsibly to help those on the waitlist get the chance to come for the walks. ***As a consideration for others, please confirm your RSVPs the day before the event to allow those on the waitlist sufficient time to schedule for the event.*** I may, at my discretion, place you in the waitlist so that others can join my walks. Thank you for your kind understanding. Disclaimer: Your physical well-being is your responsibility. Exercise care while you walk. Please let me know when you feel unwell and need to drop out. Walking comes with a risk of personal injury. ***By joining the walk, you accept responsibility for your safety and join the walk at your own risk. The organizer(s) will not be responsible or held liable for any accidents or injuries during or arising from the event.***

**Every Friday & Sunday \| All Levels Welcome** Reconnect with your body, breath, and nature through a grounding Hatha Yoga practice set in the lush greenery of Singapore Botanic Gardens. This class is designed to energise the body, calm the mind, and leave you feeling refreshed and centred for the day ahead. **What to Expect** * **Kriya (breathing techniques)** to cleanse and detox the body * **Hatha Asanas** to stretch, strengthen, mobilise, and relax the body * **Pranayama & long mindful relaxation** to quieten the mind and reduce stress * Gentle guidance with **variations for every body**, including complete beginners No prior yoga experience needed. We have been practising there since 2018. If you’ve never done yoga before, you are most welcome 💙 **Class Schedule** **Friday** * 7:15am – 8:15am * 9:00am – 10:30am **Sunday** * 8:00am – 9:30am *Other weekday classes are also available and taught by other teachers:* * Monday: 8:30am – 9:30am * Wednesday: 7:00am - 8:00am **Fees** * **$40 per person (single drop-in)** * Class packages available on[ www.namastewithhwee.com](https://www.namastewithhwee.com/booking-calendar/botanic-garden-yoga-class?referral=service_list_widget) **Meeting Point** * Meet **10 minutes before class** * **Botanic Gardens MRT, Exit A (Level 1)** **What to Bring** * Comfortable exercise clothing * Yoga mat * Towel & water bottle **How to Reserve Your Spot** Your spot is **only confirmed after WhatsApp confirmation from the host**. -> **WhatsApp Hwee:**[ +65 9646 9599 ](https://wa.me/6596469599) -> Or purchase a ticket via [www.namastewithhwee.com](https://www.namastewithhwee.com/booking-calendar/botanic-garden-yoga-class?referral=service_list_widget) Follow on social media: Instagram & Facebook: **@NamasteWithHwee** **About the Instructor – Hwee Hwee** Hwee is a yoga instructor who hurt her wrist, dampening her asana practice and just could not recover it 100% with physiotherapy and Traditional Chinese Medicine. A calling drawn her to **Reiki healing** and her recovery progressed so much more! Hwee is an advanced Reiki Level 3 practitioner. With yoga, Hwee fell in love with the **low impact** workout (which was gentle for her teenage injured lower back). Wanting to know yoga beyond the physical aspects (asanas), she went to one of the oldest yoga school in world, G.S. College of Yoga and Cultural Synthesis, Kaivalydham in Lonavla, Pune, India in 2017 and attained her Hatha Yoga teaching certifications from both Kaivalydham and Quality Council of India (QCI) by Indian Yoga Association. Hwee is also into meditation since 2013 and with Hatha Yoga now, the practice between asana (physical exercise) and meditation has integrated into one. > *“We don’t do meditation — meditation happens to us.”* Join Hwee for a nourishing outdoor practice of yoga, pranayama, and gentle healing. Hwee also speaks **Chinese & Japanese.** Instagram & Facebook: **@NamasteWithHwee** [https://www.facebook.com/namastewithhwee/](https://www.facebook.com/namastewithhwee/) [https://www.instagram.com/namastewithhwee/](https://www.instagram.com/namastewithhwee/) [www.namastewithhwee.com](www.namastewithhwee.com)

Flow class is a style of yoga that is moving from one posture to another posture in synchronizing with our breath. The class will begin with gentler movements to warm up the body, then move into progressively more challenging flowing sequences. Flow Yoga These may include standing poses, balances, inversions, and peak poses. Then the class will end with slower, deeper stretches, and often floor-based yoga poses. Classes will be conducted via Zoom LINK to the class registration: https://www.yogasojourn.com/login-register-class/

Join our vibrant volunteer community at Wildlings Forest School Singapore, **Dempsey Hill**, where we come together on the **2nd, 3rd, and 4th Thursdays of every month** to nurture our gardens and regenerate our forest trails that support our unique learning environment. #### Why Join? * It’s absolutely free! * Gain hands-on knowledge from our passionate team as we share resources and expertise. * Enjoy fresh produce and the fruits of your labour. * Help restore and enhance our forest trails, making them safe, sustainable, and magical for all who explore them. * Support environmental education by shaping the natural spaces where children thrive. * Beautify and enrich Wildlings to create a vibrant habitat for wildlife biodiversity. * Promote eco-conscious living by engaging in meaningful, sustainable practices. #### Who Can Participate? * Adults and students aged 16 and above. Young people aged 12–15 may join with an accompanying adult. * Local residents and community members. * Anyone passionate about nature, wellness, or sustainability. * Parents of Wildlings Forest School students (Hornbills and Eagles groups; Sunbirds are a little too young for this one!). * Aspiring Forest School Leaders and outdoor educators. * Nature enthusiasts and hobbyists from all walks of life. #### What Does Each Session Offer? * **Warm Welcome**: Start your morning by sampling fresh produce straight from our gardens. * **Interactive Learning**: Begin with a thematic talk, then explore the gardens and forest trails through a guided walk and observation session. * **Hands-On Work**: Get involved with physical gardening tasks, trail conservation efforts, and ongoing sustainability projects. * **Group Reflections**: Wrap up with thoughtful group reflections and a friendly farewell.

http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/7/6/1/600_434875137.jpeg Check out http://www.A2Movements.com for detailed info! Bring water, wear sporty attire (long pants & covered shoes + rubber sole and the waiver form (can be found on website)

Hi everyone, Join us this month for our weekday (Thursday) evening walk from Clarke Quay to Telok Ayer. This is a rain-or-shine walk that features a mostly-sheltered walking path in view of the recent unpredictable weather (please bring along your umbrella for a very short uncovered section of the path in case of rain). For this walk, we'll set off at 6.30pm (be there at least 10 minutes earlier for attendance-taking). We aim to complete the walk within 60 minutes (less than 4km), and we'll have dinner together somewhere near Telok Ayer MRT station. **Important - To receive updates including the exact location to meet, please follow these steps to join this event:** (1) After you have joined the event on Meetup.com (regardless of whether you are on the “Going” list or the “Waitlist”), please join the **current event Telegram group: https://t.me/+qAbHaRA4HoBkYjc1**. (2) Participants of our past events will also NEED TO JOIN this current Telegram group as we will NOT be communicating with you about the current event via past event Telegram groups. (3) If your name in Telegram is different from your name in Meetup.com, please let us know your Telegram name by sending us (any one of the event Organizers) a private message on Meetup.com. Otherwise, we may not admit you into the current event Telegram group if we don't know who you are. (4) Once you have requested to join the event Telegram group, please WAIT for us to admit you into the group nearer the event date. Please note that only those who are on the “Going” list on Meetup.com will be admitted into the Telegram group. (5) After you have been admitted into the event Telegram group, please look out for any updates and announcements in Telegram before the start of the event, including the exact location to meet on the event date. For this event, there is a limit of up to 15 participants at the discretion of the organizers, so do sign up soon. RSVP will close one day before the event date. What to bring: * Good walking shoes * Drinking water * Umbrella (in case of rain) Please take note of the following: * All are welcome to join, whether Christian or not; you just need to be open to interacting with participants who may share with you their Christian faith. * To create a safe space for all participants to interact and make friends, please do not promote your business / products / services during this event. * You are responsible for your personal safety and well-being during the walk. If you are feeling unwell before the walk, please let us know and excuse yourself through the Telegram group. * Late cancellations, late arrivals, or no-shows may affect your priority to participate in future events. See you!

Hey Guys, For this run - we will be running at the Singapore Botanic Gardens! Approx. Distance: 5km Dinner location: Adam Food Center And in the spirit of the Run-to-Eat club, we will end off the run with a satisfying dinner close by. Hope to see you guys soon! ((: *Notes: 1) No locker services will be provided 2) Unable to wait for latecomers

Meet: King Albert Park MRT Station (DT6) Passenger Service Centre When: Saturday 23rd May 4pm\*\* Event communication will be through the event chat. Please check the event chat on the day of the event to stay updated on any changes.\*\*\* Do something different on a Saturday. Join us for a Mini Hike through the Maju Forest. There will be \*MUD\*! Come prepared with a good hiking shoe. The Jurong Railway Tunnel is an abandoned, 1960s-era freight railway tunnel located under Clementi Road, near Maju Camp and the Bukit Timah area in Singapore. Built around 1965 to connect the Jurong industrial estate to the main railway line, the structure is a popular urban exploration spot known for its muddy conditions, "hidden", and often flooded, passageway covered by jungle. - *Mothership* We will end at Clementi Mall for dinner What to bring: \- Shades \- umbrellas \- Water \- Good walking shoes \- Long pants preferred \- Mosquito Repellent This is a Rain or Shine event. Where there are thunderstorms, we will adjourn for coffee or early dinner. We will resume the walk once the rain subsides. Event communication will be through the event chat. Please check the event chat on the day of the event so that you will be updated on any changes. Please try to be punctual. There will be 5 minutes grace for attendance taking. Please remember that we cannot wait because this would be unfair to those already present. Please keep in mind that I may not respond to messages sent after the walk starts because I will be busy helping the attendees and leading the walk. Please RSVP responsibly to help those on the waitlist get the chance to come for the walks. ***As a consideration for others, please confirm your RSVPs the day before the event to allow those on the waitlist sufficient time to schedule for the event.*** Thank you for your kind understanding. Disclaimer: Your physical well-being is your responsibility. Exercise care while you walk. Please let me know when you feel unwell and need to drop out. Walking comes with a risk of personal injury. ***By joining the walk, you accept responsibility for your safety and join the walk at your own risk. The organizer(s) will not be responsible or held liable for any accidents or injuries during or arising from the event.***

Join us for an 8km “off the beaten track” hike through a quiet pocket of greenery where the city fades into soft, natural calm. The route is easy to follow and sprinkled with a few muddy patches, so good shoes and a bit of adventure spirit will help. Do come prepared for mosquitoes, as this area is more natural than manicured. This walk is best for participants who are relatively healthy, comfortable with longer distances and have no fitness concerns 💪. If you’re ready for fresh air and a trail that feels refreshingly different from the usual paths, come set out on this quiet adventure with us. 🌿✨ This Meetup group is a community-led group by volunteers, who enjoy the Great Outdoors (GO) and would like to share the GO with u too! 🤎✌️😃 This is a free community walk, created simply for the joy of exploring together. To keep the spirit of the walk genuine and relaxed, we don’t involve donations, promotions, or sales of any kind. We warmly ask everyone to be punctual and considerate of fellow walkers, so that the journey remains smooth and enjoyable for all. 😊😊 Late cancellations or no-shows may affect your priority for future walks. The 'going' list may not necessarily follow a strict sequence. 🔄 To protect your privacy, we do not collect telephone numbers 📵. Communication will be through the Event page. Kindly check for any updates, especially on the day of the event, so that you will be updated on any changes. The route may be amended or the hike postponed in the event of inclement weather, for the safety of our walkers. 🚶🚶‍♂️ As part of Meetup's enhanced privacy/ security measures, the meeting point will now be visible to attendees only. Exercise care while you walk. Please inform us when you feel unwell and need to drop out. *Disclaimer: By joining this walk, you assume responsibility for your own safety and well-being 🚸, and will not hold the organizers/hosts liable for any loss or injury or other unforeseen events, ensuring a shared commitment to a safe and enjoyable experience for all. 😊 Thank you. 🙏

**Get Ready for the Mountains** For all adventure seekers training for your next trek, or simply be always ready for one! Join me and our trip participants for a training hike: Meet/End: MacRitchie Reservoir, outside Gink-Go Cafe (formerly Mushroom Cafe) Distance: ~12km Duration: \~2.5-3 hours **Note that this is not a leisure hike. We will be fast-hike at 4.5-5km/hour for the 11km-loop.** **Ruck It Up** Rucking is simply walking/hiking with a weighted pack on your back. Rucking builds muscle and strength while improving cardio & endurance and well… burn up more calories! A day pack of +/-5kg will be a good start, or more for that multi-day trek. Loading up is optional; especially if you may have any health or medical restrictions. We can do a weigh-in of your pack for your own progress tracking if you are up for it. **NOTE:** * advised to have some light breakfast before the workout * bring sufficient water and food/snacks for refuel. water refill point available at around halfway mark. * Waterproof your items and be rain-equipped (rain cover, rain jacket, poncho, umbrella, etc.) * Hiking poles (optional) *In case of Cat 1 (bad weather); any change of plans will be announced on the morning of hike* The 'Waitlist' may not go in order as we reserve the right to prioritize the spots for our trip participants who are training for our upcoming treks. Thank you for your understanding! \#\#\# Important Liability Notice By joining this training, you acknowledge that you are participating voluntarily and understand the physical risks inherent in this activity. **AU** is not responsible for any injuries, accidents, or health complications that may occur during the training. Please ensure you are medically fit and adequately prepared for the demands of the session. **If you are prepared for a challenging, rewarding effort, we look forward to seeing you.** Join us on social media to keep updated with our latest adventures!

[https://bit.ly/m/Adventures-Unlimited](https://bit.ly/m/Adventures-Unlimited)

**Training Program-Focusing on stamina, mental resilience, and consistent pacing with no long breaks unless regrouping!** 🗓 Date: 22nd May 2026(Fri) ⏰ Time: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM 📍Meetup: Woodlands MRT( Near Control Station) North South Line - RED NOT SUITABLE FOR BEGINNER 🚶‍♂️Activity: Endurance Walk 📍Route: Woodlands MRT→ Ulu Sembawang PCN → T15 → Dairy Farm Loop→Hillview MRT → Rail all for Lunch → - The End 🧭 Distance: ~15km+++ (Let's see where our feet bring us) 🎯 Goal: Build endurance, no long pauses, consistent effort to test and stretch your limit 🧠 Training Guidelines Hydration Strategy: Carry at least 1L of water. + electrolytes (no sugary drinks) No Long Pauses: 1-3mins only if needed to regulate Pack your lunch as we won't stop for lunch. Breathing: Inhale 3–4 steps, exhale 3–4 steps (rhythmic breathing) 🎒 **What to Bring:** *Minimum 1L of water - Light snacks or energy bars *Towel/small cloth - Rain gear or poncho (weather dependent) *Proper hiking shoes - Sunscreen and a cap *EZ-Link card / small cash for lunch Note: Train smart. This is not a race. The goal is to develop strength and endurance through consistent effort and mindful pacing. **Let’s gear up and get trail-ready! 💪** Bad weather contingency plan: \ *Waterproof your belongings and bring rain gear (rain cover, jacket, poncho, or umbrella). ✅ Post-Walk (1PM) ) Cool Down: Gentle stretches at the reservoir area (hamstrings, calves, hip flexors) Refuel: Protein bar + rehydration (banana/coconut water recommended) **Please read this** #1 - This is a number-controlled event. Please come only if you are on the attending list. Min 7pax to go. #2 - We will move out at 8.05 am sharp. We are not able to wait for latecomers. #3 - As this is a limited number event, please check your calendar and make sure you can come before you RSVP. Do not change your attendance at the last minute and deny someone else who genuinely wishes to come. ### Important Liability Notice By joining this training, you acknowledge that you are participating voluntarily and understand the physical risks inherent in this activity. AU is not responsible for any injuries, accidents, or health complications that may occur during the training. Please ensure you are medically fit and adequately prepared for the demands of the session.

🥾 **Backpack Endurance Hike – Consistency Steps Training!!!** Route: Hillview MRT EXIT A ➝ Dairy Farm Nature Park ➝ Bukit Timah Summit ➝ 2-3 Staircase Loops ➝ Beauty World Shopping Centre for lunch. **Date: 24th May 2026 (Sun)** **Meeting Time: 8 am** **Meeting point: Hillview MRT Exit A** **Your Leader in Fitness: Gary** Join us for a practical endurance training session designed to build back strength, overall stamina, and backpack carrying efficiency, perfect for those preparing for long-distance hikes and treks. We will tackle a mix of trail and stair climbs to simulate the kind of effort and strain experienced during multi-day hikes. This session focuses on consistency, not speed, ideal for beginners and experienced hikers alike who want to train smart. 🧳 What to Bring: \*Backpack (with at least 5-7kg weight to simulate real conditions) - Minimum 1.5L of water \*Light snacks or energy bars - Towel/small cloth \*Rain gear or poncho (weather dependent) - Proper hiking shoes \*Sunscreen and cap - EZ-Link card / small cash for lunch Note: Train smart. This is not a race. The goal is to develop strength and endurance through consistent effort and mindful pacing. Let’s gear up and get trail-ready! 💪 Bad weather contingency plan: *Waterproof your belongings and bring rain gear (rain cover, jacket, poncho, or umbrella). Please read this #1 - This is a number-controlled event. Please come only if you are on the attending list. #2 - We will move out at 8.05am sharp. We are not able to wait for late comers. #3 - As this is a limited number event, please check your calendar and make sure you can come before you RSVP. Do not change your attendance at the last minute and deny someone else who genuinely wishes to come. ### Important Liability Notice By joining this training, you acknowledge that you are participating voluntarily and understand the physical risks inherent in this activity. AU is not responsible for any injuries, accidents, or health complications that may occur during the training. Please ensure you are medically fit and adequately prepared for the demands of the session.

**Get Ready for the Mountains** For all adventure seekers training for your next trek, or simply be always ready for one! Join me and our trip participants for a training hike: Meet/End: Bukit Timah Nature Reserve entrance (at the rock) Distance: \~7km Duration: \~ 2hours **Ruck It Up** Rucking is simply walking/hiking with a weighted pack on your back. Rucking builds muscle and strength while improving cardio & endurance and well… burn up more calories! A day pack of +/-5kg will be a good start, or more for that multi-day trek. Loading up is optional; especially if you may have any health or medical restrictions. **NOTE:** * Come in comfortable hiking attire and trail shoes * Waterproof your items and be rain-equipped (rain cover, rain jacket, poncho, umbrella, etc.) * Bring water to stay hydrated (at least 1L) * May bring hiking poles (optional) * In case of Cat 1 (bad weather); any change of plans will be announced 3 hours before hike * Route may change according to weather conditions *The 'Waitlist' may not go in order, as we reserve the right to prioritise the spots for our trip participants who are training for our upcoming treks. Thank you for your understanding!* \#\#\# Important Liability Notice By joining this training, you acknowledge that you are participating voluntarily and understand the physical risks inherent in this activity. **AU** is not responsible for any injuries, accidents, or health complications that may occur during the training. Please ensure you are medically fit and adequately prepared for the demands of the session. **If you are prepared for a challenging, rewarding effort, we look forward to seeing you.** Join us on social media to keep updated with our latest adventures!
[https://bit.ly/m/Adventures-Unlimited](https://bit.ly/m/Adventures-Unlimited)

Cap off the weekend on two wheels! Join us for a community ride-out as we make our way to the [Toyota Connected in Mobility Showcase at Marina Bay Sands Event Plaza](https://www.toyota.com.sg/toyota-connected-in-mobility), Singapore's flagship sustainability event celebrating greener ways to move through our city. Whether you're a longtime Brompton rider or simply someone who believes in moving smarter, come roll with us to the waterfront and be part of something bigger. Join our ride or meet us at Marina Bay Sands Event Plaza. **Not able to make it on Sunday? Join us on Saturday with Rapha Small Wheels:** [https://events.rapha.cc/products/rapha-x-brompton-small-wheels-only-ride](https://events.rapha.cc/products/rapha-x-brompton-small-wheels-only-ride) **Please familiarise yourself with the route (see link below). This is a "for the community by the community" ride to the showcase, so it will not be a fully facilitated ride.** ### 📅 Event Details * **Date:** 24th May 2026 (Sunday) * **Attendance Taking:** 8:30 AM * **Flag Off Time:** 9:00 AM * **Duration:** Approximately 2 hours ### 📍 Route Information * **Start Point:** The Stadium MRT Station * **End Point:** Marina Bay Sands (In front of Rain Oculus) * **Distance:** Approximately 9 KM * **[Route](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/55094951?privacy_code=ahzMTD9049aOMGnIcvK7AU50iwGiv0iM)** * **Speed:** 10–12 KM/H (Casual pace) **This is a great ride for beginners.** * **Difficulty:** 🚴🚴⚪⚪⚪ (2 / 5) * **Route Type:** PCN & pavement *(Some sections may be uneven and narrow — ride with care)* * **Max Elevation:** \~54 m ### 🛑 Pit Stops * **Pit Stop 1:** Below barrage , water cooler + toilet break * **Pit Stop 2:** Impromptu stops ### 🚲 Ride Information * **Recommended Bike:** Brompton * **Ride Leader:** Swee Aik Khor * **Purpose of Ride:** Green Mobility Celebration ### 🎒 What to Bring * Water Bottle * Helmet *(Compulsory)* 🚴‍♂️ **Ride Liability & Waiver** Everyone is welcome — **no one will be left behind**. In the event of wet weather, updates or any change in plans will be posted on **Instagram** for all participants by **6:00am on Sunday, 24th May 2026**. Please note that **helmets and bikes are compulsory**. By signing up for the ride, you are accepting our terms and conditions as stated below: **IN CONSIDERATION** of your participation in the **Brompton Ride on Sunday, 24th May 2026**: 1️⃣ I acknowledge, agree, and represent that I understand the nature of bicycling activities and that I am qualified, in good health, and in proper physical condition to participate. I understand the ride-out will be conducted on public pavements and facilities open to the public, where travel hazards are expected. If at any time I believe conditions to be unsafe, I will immediately discontinue participation. 2️⃣ I fully understand that: • (a) Bicycling involves risks and dangers of serious bodily injury, including permanent disability, paralysis, and death (“Risks”). • (b) These Risks may result from my own actions, those of others, the conditions of the ride, or negligence. • (c) There may be other unforeseen Risks or losses. • (d) I fully accept and assume all such Risks and responsibilities for any losses, costs, or damages I may incur as a result of participating. • (e) I acknowledge that **Brompton Bicycle will not be liable** for any accidents or damages occurring during the ride-out.

**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.

Hi ladies. Let's hike the edward thomas trail, lake trail , spring creek and a short walk on the multi purpose trail. This is one large loop . Wear your shoe of choice. Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area. 4.2 miles in length .

Hosted by Licking County Parks Registration opens at 9am on April 9th. Ladies are you ready? It's back! Every other year we hold the Women's Outdoor Skills Workshop! The day is a chance for women to relax, enjoy exploring new skills in a welcoming environment, and make new connections! Session topics this year include: archery, kayak, stand up paddleboard, outdoor cooking, firemaking, knot tying, foraging, forest bathing, orienteering, nature photography, nature journaling, intro to disc golf, yoga, Tai Chi, birding, intro to backpacking, and more! Lunch is provided. Fee: $75 * Event Address: James Bradley Center, Infirmary Mound Park, 4309 Lancaster Rd, Granville, OH 43023 * Ages 16+. Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. * Cancellation: Cancellation deadline is May 20, 2026. Cancellations before this date will receive a refund. There will be 4 sessions: three 1.5 hour sessions throughout the day (9am-10:30am, 10:50am-12:20pm, 1:30pm - 3pm) followed by the final 1 hour wellness short session (3:20pm - 4:20pm). Each session will have 6 or more classes to choose from. PLEASE NOTE YOU MUST FILL OUT THE GOOGLE FORM TO BE FULLY REGISTERED - The link will be in your receipt email. It determines your sessions. Sessions assigned FIRST COME, FIRST SERVE. Register and pay here: [https://www.lickingparkdistrict.com/271/June-2026](https://www.lickingparkdistrict.com/271/June-2026)

Hike approx 4.0 miles at approx. 17 minute mile pace. Meet in front of the Nature Center.