Outdoor Adventures

🥾 **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: 21st June 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.

🌿⛰️ Sunday Afternoon Hike at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve ⛰️🌿 Escape the city stress and spend your Saturday afternoon surrounded by nature! Join us for a refreshing hike at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve — home to Singapore’s highest natural point and one of the country’s richest rainforest reserves. 🌳🐒 We’ll enjoy a steady hike through scenic jungle trails, tackle some stair climbs, and soak in the peaceful greenery while getting a good workout in. Expect a mix of paved paths, forest terrain, and moderate uphill sections. Perfect for anyone looking to stay active and meet fellow hiking enthusiasts! 🥾 Hike Details: • Location: Bukit Timah Nature Reserve • Date: 21 May 2026 (Sunday) • Time: 3:00pm to 5:30pm • Meetup Time: 2:50pm • Meetup Point: Beauty World MRT (Passenger Service) • Highlights: Summit point, rainforest scenery, fitness challenge, and great company 🎒 Please Bring: • Water / hydration • Comfortable hiking or sports shoes • Small towel • Insect repellent • Light snacks if needed ⚠️ Notes: • Hike will proceed in light rain unless conditions are unsafe • Please ensure you are reasonably fit for uphill climbing and stair sections • Respect nature and keep the trails clean 🌱 Come recharge, enjoy the outdoors, and make new friends along the way! 😊

Welcome to my sailboat. **Please read this notice**. These are crew opportunities, not for passengers, non-swimmers, people afraid of the water or get seasick. Bring a change of clothes, a towel, a hat, non-marking footwear with heelstrap and sunblock. There is a toilet and drinking water on board. Participants like to contribute to expenses in appreciation of this opportunity. **Please register at Singapore Sailors Meetup.com. Do not register here.** Confirm your attendance by SMS or Whatsapp on Saturday for sailing on Sunday, to avoid no-shows and missed sailings. No-shows deprive others of a place, so be responsible and remove your reservation if you are not attending, and please do it in good time. Places unconfirmed by Saturday will not be reserved, and I can't wait for you if I'm not sure you're coming. Keep me informed and reply to my messages. Don't be late. Thank you. Derek 9807-5827.

Get ready for an energising guided walk at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve — a great opportunity to reconnect with nature, improve your fitness, and prepare for future outdoor adventures. Whether you’re gearing up for an overseas expedition or simply looking for a meaningful weekend activity, this session is designed to enhance endurance, strengthen your legs, and build confidence on challenging terrain Set amidst lush rainforest scenery and scenic trails, the walk offers both physical challenge and enjoyment. Train alongside fellow outdoor enthusiasts in a supportive environment as you tackle stairs, slopes, and uneven paths — a rewarding way to begin your journey toward bigger mountain goals 🥾 Event Detail 📍 Location: Bukit Timah Nature Reserve 📅 Date: Sunday, 21 June 2026 ⏰ Meeting Time: 2:45 PM (sharp departure) 🚇 Meeting Point: Beauty World MRT – Passenger Service Counter ⏱️ Walk Duration: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM 🗺️ Route Overvie 🚶 Start: Bukit Timah Nature Park ⬆️ Climb: Bukit Timah Summit – Loop 🌿 Continue Along: Wallace Trail 🏕️ Stopover: Dairy Farm Hut ⬆️ Return Climb: Bukit Timah Summit – Loop 🧍 Finish: Bukit Timah Nature Park This route includes stairways, inclines, and natural uneven terrain, making it excellent preparation for hiking and mountain trekking ⚠️ Important Information / What to Brin Arrive on time as the group will depart promptl Wear comfortable hiking or sports footwea Carry enough drinking wate Be prepared for physical activity on uneven surface Optional items: snacks, sunblock, insect repellen 🌍 Upcoming International Expedition 🏔️Mount Fuji, Japan (July 2026) ⛰️Yushan (Mount Jade), Taiwan (Dec 2026) 🏞️Mount Rinjani, Indonesia (2027) 🏞️ Mount Kinabalu, Panalaban basecamp Malaysia (2027) 🏞️Mount Kinabalu, Ferrata, Malaysia (2027) ️🏔️Annapurna Base Camp (ABC), Nepal (2027) 📝 Disclaimer Participation is voluntary and entirely at your own discretion. Each participant is responsible for their own safety and well-being throughout the activity. Please remain mindful of your surroundings, follow the organizer’s instructions, and notify the organizer immediately if you feel unwell or need assistance As with all outdoor activities, there are inherent risks including slips, falls, and physical fatigue. The organizer will not be responsible for any injuries, accidents, losses, or incidents arising from participation ✨ Take the First Step Toward Greater Adventure Build stamina, strengthen your mindset, and prepare yourself for future mountain expeditions — starting right here at Bukit Timah 📝 Reserve your place today — limited slots available

Thank you for your interest in our event. Please take a minute to understand AU's trip booking system for our paid events on Meetup. * The minimum and maximum size for this event is 10 and 20 * Clicking on Going or Waitlist does not constitute a guaranteed spot in this event. By clicking on it, you will receive any updates posted by the organiser. * We cannot reserve or hold any spot for anyone. Your participation can only be **guaranteed upon making a deposit**. * This Meetup listing serves to inform you of our planned trip. You can get more information about this trip by contacting the Event Host (see details below) 驰骋西北，一次看尽山河的棱角与色彩。这是一条专为热爱自由与辽阔的你设计的青甘大环线自驾旅程，11天时间，用车轮丈量从湛蓝盐湖到七彩丹霞的每一寸瑰丽，让荒野、星空与丝路传奇成为你旅途中最真实的伙伴。 Charge into the heart of Northwest China, where landscapes shift from the sharp edges of deserts to a painter's palette of colors. This 11-day self-drive loop through Qinghai and Gansu is crafted for those who crave freedom and vastness. From sapphire lakes to rainbow mountains, let the wilderness, starry skies, and Silk Road legends be your most authentic travel companions. ✨ 高光亮点 ✨ Trip Highlights 🪞天地之镜：漫步茶卡盐湖与察尔汗盐湖，在“天空之镜”与工业奇观中感受极致的纯净与辽阔。 Mirrors of the Sky & Earth: Walk across the crystalline surfaces of Chaka and Qarhan Salt Lakes, experiencing surreal purity and scale. 🚙荒野狂想：穿越柴达木盆地，在“火星”般的雅丹地貌和黑独山的墨色世界里，邂逅地球最原始的表情。 Desert Fantasia: Traverse the Qaidam Basin, encountering the planet's rawest expressions in Mars-like Yadan landforms and the ink-wash landscape of Heidushan. 🏞️丝路回响：走进敦煌莫高窟，在千年壁画前屏息；骑骆驼翻越鸣沙山，聆听风与沙的古老歌谣。 Echoes of the Silk Road: Hold your breath before the millennia-old murals of Mogao Caves, then ride a camel over the singing dunes of Mingsha Mountain. 🎨色彩史诗：目睹张掖丹霞的“上帝调色盘”，驾车穿越雪山下的祁连草原，完成视觉的终极盛宴。 A Symphony of Color: Witness the “God's Palette” at Zhangye Danxia, and drive through the Qilian grasslands beneath snow-capped peaks for a final visual feast. 🗺️ 简单行程详情 🗺️ Simplified Itinerary D1 抵达西宁 | Arrive in Xining D2 西宁办理驾照手续，青海湖-茶卡镇 | Xining (Driving Permit Formalities) → Qinghai Lake → Chaka Town D3 青海湖下午茶，茶卡镇 | Qinghai Lake (Lakeside Afternoon Tea) → Chaka Town D4 茶卡盐湖，察尔汗盐湖-格尔木 | Chaka Salt Lake → Qarhan Salt Lake → Golmud D5 格尔木，戈壁雅丹-弧度星际夜奢酒店 | Golmud → Gobi & Yadan Landforms → Arcadia Starlight Hotel D6 黑独山-敦煌 | Heidushan (Black Mountain) → Dunhuang D7 敦煌莫高窟，鸣沙山月牙泉-敦煌 | Mogao Caves → Mingsha Mountain & Crescent Moon Spring → Dunhuang D8 敦煌-嘉峪关关城，悬臂长城-嘉峪关 | Dunhuang → Jiayuguan Pass → Overhanging Great Wall → Jiayuguan D9 嘉峪关-张掖丹霞，大佛寺-张掖 | Jiayuguan → Zhangye Danxia → Giant Buddha Temple → Zhangye D10 马蹄寺徒步-西宁 | Matisi Temple Hike → Xining D11 西宁送机 | Depart from Xining (Airport Transfer) 📅Trip Dates: 21 June - 1 July, 2026 📖Click to learn more👉 https://au.sg/QinghaiGansu26 📱Inquire now and begin your multi-dimensional mountain city adventure! wa.me/6589895060 🔘Indicate your interest for this trip. Tick "(JU) Qinghai - Gansu Self Drive Adventures (21 June - 1 July 2026)" on our CMB form https://au.sg/CallMeBack **Travel Bank Credit** Beginning 1 January 2023,we help you save by giving you a 1% credit on your land tour to your personal travel bank account with us! You can then use these credit amounts to offset any overseas trip with us or to purchase our merchandise. Read more about our [Travel Bank credit scheme here](https://www.liveopenly.net/aupassport.html) **Pack a Friend** Bring a friend on your adventure, and you'll score an additional 1% cashback. Your friend will also get a 1% cashback on their booking. It's a win-win for everyone! The best part?The more friends you refer, the more cashback you'll earn! The only requirement to be eligible for the cashback is that you and your referred friends must participate in the same trip. Read more about our [reward scheme here!](https://www.liveopenly.net/aupassport.html) **Please refer to our T&C below** \[https://www\.liveopenly\.net/terms\-and\-conditions/ terms\-and\-conditions\]\(https://www\.liveopenly\.net/terms\-and\-conditions/ terms\-and\-conditions\) \*When you paid up for this event, it is understood that you have read, agreed to, and accepted the above terms and conditions. **This event is organised by Adventures Unlimited(TA02844), a licensed travel agent registered with the Singapore Tourism Board.**

📅 Sunday, 21 June ⏰ 2:30 PM – 6:00 PM 📍 Meet at: Upper Thomson MRT (TE8) – Passenger Service Centre 🕒 Meeting Time: 2:20 PM Challenge yourself with an endurance walk through one of Singapore’s most popular nature reserves. This route takes us along the scenic trails of MacRitchie Reservoir, offering a refreshing mix of forest paths, reservoir views, and peaceful natural surroundings. Perfect for those looking to build stamina, stay active, and enjoy a rewarding afternoon outdoors with fellow nature enthusiasts. 🍽️ After the walk, we’ll be having dinner together nearby. Feel free to join us for good food and great company! 📏 Distance: Approximately 13 km ⭐ Suitable for: • Participants with basic to moderate fitness levels • Regular walkers • Leisure hikers looking for a longer challenge • Nature lovers 👕 What to Wear: Comfortable activewear and walking/hiking shoes. 🎒 What to Bring: • Water (at least 1L recommended) • Cap or Sunglasses • Mosquito Repellent • Light Snacks • Rain Jacket or Poncho 🌦️ Weather Notice The walk will proceed rain or shine. In the event of heavy rain, conditions will be assessed before continuing. ⚠️ Please arrive on time as the walk will begin promptly at 2:30 PM. ⚠️ Safety Notice Participants should ensure they are physically fit and comfortable with long-distance outdoor walking activities. Trails may include uneven surfaces, slopes, weather changes, and other unforeseen conditions. By joining this walk, participants acknowledge and accept these risks and agree to participate at their own discretion. While reasonable care will be taken throughout the event, participants are responsible for their own safety and well-being. The organiser and hike leaders will not be liable for any injury, illness, accident, loss, or damage that may occur during this event. 💛 If you’re unable to attend, kindly update your RSVP so others on the waitlist may join. See you on the trails!

Sundate Yoga – Reconnect, Recharge, Refresh Guided by a Certified Yoga Instructor After a busy week, it’s time to slow down, stretch out, and reconnect with yourself. Join us for a relaxing outdoor yoga session designed to calm the mind, awaken the body, and restore your inner balance—surrounded by nature in a peaceful open-air setting. This 60-minute session focuses on mindful movement, gentle stretching, and deep breathing to help release tension, boost energy, and cultivate self-love. It's the perfect way to reset and start your weekend with clarity and calm. Session Details: 🧘 Time: Sunday, 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM 🧘‍♀️ Location: Aperia Mall, Open Plaza 🧘🏻‍♂️ What to Bring: Yoga mat, yoga block, yoga strap, towel, and water bottle All levels are welcome—especially beginners and intermediate practitioners. Take a deep breath. Let go. Show up for yourself. Namaste.

Join us for a relaxed evening as we start with dinner at Lau Pa Sat 🍜, before heading over to the i-Light Singapore 2026 festival.✨ This year’s theme, “Movement,” brings the waterfront to life with interactive light installations that respond to touch and motion, along with glowing pathways, and playful displays.💡 We’ll take an easy stroll through the installations, and for those who want more, we can swing by GastroBeats — the festival village with live music, games and plenty of food options (free entry, just pay for what you eat 🍔🎶) — making it a great spot to soak in the atmosphere and unwind together. [https://gastrobeats.com.sg/](https://gastrobeats.com.sg/) This is a free community walk, led by volunteers who enjoy the Great Outdoors (GO) and would like to share them with u too! 🤎✌️😃 Kindly RSVP responsibly to give others a chance to join. 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 Chat. Kindly check for any updates, especially on the day of the event. The route may be amended or the hike postponed in the event of inclement weather, for the safety of our walkers. 🚶🚶‍♂️ *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. 🙏 Photos credit: I-Light 2026

📅 Date: Every Sunday 🕒 Meeting Time: 2:35 PM ⏰ Walk: 2:45 PM – 5:30 PM 📍 Starting Point: DT5 Beauty World MRT (Control Station/Passenger Service) This Summer in Japan, our group will be taking on the challenge of conquering Mount Fuji! 🗻 To prepare ourselves, we’ll be doing weekly training hikes every Sunday at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve — Singapore’s most iconic hiking spot and our training ground for the months ahead. If you’ve been wanting to challenge yourself, build stamina, improve fitness, or simply train with a supportive and motivated group, you’re welcome to join us. This route won’t be the easiest, but growth never happens in the comfort zone 💪 As a Stage 4 cancer survivor myself, if I can do this, I truly believe you can too. We also have more overseas hiking adventures planned in the future, so this is a great opportunity to start training together and meet fellow hiking enthusiasts! 👟 **What to bring:** Water, umbrella/raincoat, and wear comfortable sports attire & shoes, sun protection (cap or sunscreen), light snacks (optional). Let’s train, sweat, and grow stronger together — one step at a time. ⛰️

Join me on Sunday mornings for a hatha yoga class at Botanic Gardens to unwind, stretch, & breathe in the fresh air. Small class size. Hi! I'm Karyn. I organise this small group Hatha Outdoor yoga class for beginners at Singapore Botanic Gardens. Find me at IG [@curiosandyoga](https://www.instagram.com/curiosandyoga/) or [@lalanglifesg](https://www.instagram.com/lalanglifesg/) [Lalang Life](https://www.lalanglife.sg/?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=listing&utm_campaign=meetupevent) (a collective of yoga instructors for private yoga sessions at home/your preferred location). **Small Group Outdoor Hatha Yoga Class at Singapore Botanic Gardens** *Perfect for beginners who want to start their yoga journey in a* UNESCO World Heritage setting. **What You'll Experience:** This is an intimate outdoor hatha yoga class for *newcomers to yoga* and those seeking *a gentle introduction to mindful practice*. With class size **capped at just 4 participants**, you'll receive personalised attention while enjoying the tranquil environment of the Singapore Botanic Gardens. **Who This Class Is For:** * Complete beginners who have never tried yoga before * Busy professionals looking for stress relief in nature * Anyone intimidated by large studio classes who prefers small group settings * Nature lovers who want to combine outdoor time with wellness practice **What Each Session Includes:** * Breathing exercises to ground yourself, centre your mind and be ready for the practice * Gentle loosening and warm-up exercises that prepare your body safely for yoga poses (asanas) * Beginner-friendly yoga asanas (poses) taught with clear, step-by-step guidance * Relaxation and pranayama (breathing techniques) to end your practice **Why Choose Outdoor Yoga at Singapore Botanic Gardens** * Enhanced mental well-being: Studies show that being in green spaces reduces stress * Fresh air & sunshine benefits: Outdoor practice improves oxygen flow and energy levels * Small group: Maximum 4 participants ensures individual attention Class fee is SGD20. Meetup collects payment in USD. If you will like to pay in SGD, sign up on Eventbrite or DM for paynow payment. https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/outdoor-yoga-for-beginners-3548139?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=creatorshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=odclsxcollection&utm-source=cp&aff=escb **Things to bring:** * ***Yoga mat*** * A small towel * Water * Optional ground sheet/picnic mat or large garbage bag. We may practise on the grass. If you might be uncomfortable laying your yoga mat over the grass (which tends to be damp), do bring something to place under your mat. * Insect repellent will be a good idea **Location** **Meeting point.** We'll meet at the open lawn where the **Bougainvilleas and Bamboo collection** is. Look out for my *yellow* bag. * If you are coming from the **Botanic Gardens MRT Exit A** (circle line), (1) enter the gate then walk through Trellis Garden. (2) Take the middle path. (3) Turn right once exiting Trellis Garden. (4) Look out for the bamboo trees. Then walk on the stone path. (5) You should see the open lawn with bougainvilleas. (6) Look out for my Yellow bag. * If driving, the nearest carpark is near Melati Gate. Google map: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/PhHFbQAEFNB7j1pc6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/PhHFbQAEFNB7j1pc6) **Note: In case of rain or otherwise, the session shall be cancelled and not proceed. I will try my best to inform you of such cancellation via your registered email at least 45 minutes before the session. I appreciate your understanding on this. Your fee will be refunded if the class is cancelled due to rain.** **Release and waiver of liability** By your getting a ticket to this event, you: \- consent to the voluntary participation in the yoga session conducted by the organiser; \- understand that you should consult a physician before participating in the yoga session;\- recognise that it is your responsibility to notify the organiser of any serious illness or injury before the yoga session; \- will not perform any postures to the extent of strain or pain; \- assume full responsibility for any risks\, injuries\, or damages\, known or unknown\, which I might incur because of the yoga session; \- knowingly\, voluntarily\, and expressly waive any claim you may have against the organiser\, for injury or damages that you may sustain because of participating in the yoga session\. **Photography/videography** Photos and/or videos may be taken during the class. The photos/videos may be put up in the public domain for publicity purposes. If you do not wish to have your photo/video used, please inform me during the class.

Welcome to my sailboat. **Please read this notice**. These are crew opportunities, not for passengers, non-swimmers, people afraid of the water or get seasick. Bring a change of clothes, a towel, a hat, non-marking footwear with heelstrap and sunblock. There is a toilet and drinking water on board. Participants like to contribute to expenses in appreciation of this opportunity. **Also**, please confirm your attendance by SMS or Whatsapp on Saturday for sailing on Sunday, to avoid no-shows and missed sailings. No-shows deprive others of a place, so be responsible and remove your reservation if you are not attending, and please do it in good time. Places unconfirmed by Saturday will not be reserved, and I can't wait for you if I'm not sure you're coming. Keep me informed and reply to my messages. Don't be late. Thank you. Derek 9807-5827.

**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)

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.

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

**Hike the Scioto Audubon trail. All paved and flat!** **Plan on 3-4 miles. Hike at your own pace, no one left behind.** **Lunch after at Nocterra for those who wish.**

Meet at the parking lot closest to the playground at 2319 Quarry Trails Drive. We’ll hike 3-4 miles at a 17 minute pace. No one left behind. Optional lunch afterward.