Outdoor Adventures

https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/harbourfront-centre-to-close-in-second-half-of-2026-for-makeover-into-33-storey-mixed-use-building The beloved HarbourFront Center (HFC) will be closed for at least a 5-year period for a drastic makeover. Before that happens, let's walk past this place again, enroute to the luxurious Sentosa CoVe Marina 🌈🌊🌳🌸🍃. Here, marvel at the elegance of waterfront living, with views of anchored yachts ⛵️🚤 and vibrant Quayside Isle—a perfect spot to unwind as the sun dips below the horizon 💛. 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, late arrivals, or no-shows may affect your priority for future walks. The 'going' list may not necessarily follow a strict sequence. 🔄 Gate-crashers will be turned away to keep things smooth for everyone.** 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. 🙏

**One Life, One Solo Adventure – Bhutan** Tired of waiting for the perfect travel companions? Escape the hustle of city life and find your peace in Bhutan’s tranquil beauty. It’s time to reconnect with nature, rediscover yourself & refresh your mind, body, & soul. Join our Bhutan tour and embark on a meaningful solo adventure, where you can meet like-minded travelers from all walks of life. This is more than just a trip – it’s an opportunity to share stories, make new friendships and expand your network while experiencing the breathtaking beauty of Bhutan. No matter your background, everyone is welcome to come together and create unforgettable memories in one of the world’s most happiest countries. **Why Bhutan trip?** Bhutan, often referred to as the **"Land of the Thunder Dragon,"** is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich Buddhist culture, and commitment to Gross National Happiness. Nestled in the Himalayas, it boasts breath taking views, traditional dzongs, and vibrant festivals that celebrate its unique heritage. With a focus on sustainable tourism, Bhutan offers an authentic experience, from trekking through pristine nature to exploring ancient monasteries, all while enjoying the warm hospitality of its people. This trip to Bhutan is perfect for everyone—whether you're traveling solo, with family, friends or as a couple, YOLO. **Tour Highlights** * Visit one of Bhutan's most iconic landmarks **Tiger's Nest Monastery**, perched on a cliff **3,120 meters** above sea level. * Visit to **Punakha Dzong** the "**Palace of Great Happiness**" is a magnificent fortress at the confluence of the **Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu** rivers. * Enjoy authentic dinner/ lunch with a local family at a farm house. * Hoisting of prayer flags at **Dochula pass (3100 m)** which offers panoramic views of the Himalayan range, including the **108 memorial chortens** (stupas) built in honour of Bhutanese soldiers. * Meditation at **Dochula Caves** and **Buddha Dordenma** (the highest Buddha statue in the world). **Trip Details:** **Dates-:** **Every Sunday.** **Only need 5 days leave.** 2 nights Thimpu, 2 nights Punakha & 2 nights Paro. **Group Size:** Limited to 15 dream travelers (min 4 to go). Private tour option also available. **Flight:** Only one direct Drukair flight goes from Singapore to Paro. There are connecting flights to Paro either from Bangkok or New Delhi. We will help you to book your flight. **Early Bird Price:** **SGD 2188** (SGD 500 deposits thereafter the price is **SGD 2388**). **Refund Policy:** The deposit is refundable within 3 days after the trip confirmation mail sent to you. After that, it becomes non-refundable. Full amount refunded if we don’t meet minimum no of pax. **Inclusions:** * 3 Star hotel accommodations on twin/double sharing basis. * All Meals-: Daily breakfast, lunch & dinner. * Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) to the Government of Bhutan * Bhutan Visa Fee * Certified English Speaking Bhutanese Guide for your entire stay. * All ground transportation * All entrance fees * All internal taxes and charges. * Mineral Water while traveling. **Exclusions:** * International flights and personal travel insurance * Personal expenses (shopping, optional activities like spa, massage, archery, horse riding, porter etc). * Items of a personal nature, such as laundry, telephone calls, room service, alcoholic & non-alcoholic beverages, etc. * Single room supplement, Child or adult in triple sharing room. * Other meals during the trip (other than stated above). **Note-: There will be a surcharge fee if travel date falls in any Bhutan major festivals, X-Mas, New Year period (hotels increase their cost during this period).** **REGISTRATION AND PAYMENT:** **1.** RSVP NOW **2.** Transfer a small Deposit of **$500** to grab our **Early Bird Offer** to: **Dream Valley Pte Ltd via:** **A)** PAYNOW to UEN: **202413187D** **B)** Through ATM/Online to: Dream Valley - Current Acct: **11352440801** Bank Name: ANEXT Bank Pte. Ltd. Bank Code: 9742 Bank Industry Code: ANTPSGSGXXX **3.** Once you've transferred, WhatsApp **Vinny (Hp. 85062629)** your proof of payment. **(IMPT: INDICATE THE EVENT & YOUR MEETUP NAME).** Your slot is now confirmed and you'll be invited to the Trip Briefing/ Q & A Session once RSVP closes. **4.** This is a "First to transfer, first to Confirm" basis. The sooner we can confirm this Trip, the more everyone saves. **Disclaimer, Indemnity and Terms of Participation:** **PLEASE READ FOLLOWING LINKS FOR OUR T&C’s BEFORE YOU RSVP:** [https://dreamvalleydestination.com/terms-and-conditions/](https://dreamvalleydestination.com/terms-and-conditions/) [https://dreamvalleydestination.com/privacy-policy/](https://dreamvalleydestination.com/privacy-policy/) By participation on this trip, I agree to & accept **Dream Valley’s** terms and conditions. We reserve the right without prejudice to return payment at any time and not permit participation - without the obligation to explain or give any reason. This Trip is organized by **Dream Valley Pte Ltd** **(TA License: 03794).** **Stay Connected: Follow our latest trips and updates:** Check out this Linktree! - https://linktr.ee/Dreamvalleydestination?utm_source=linktree_profile_share [https://dreamvalleydestination.com](https://dreamvalleydestination.com)

Calling all competitive spirits! Join us for an adrenaline-pumping day of **dragon boating** designed for team players who thrive on challenge and camaraderie. Whether you’re an experienced paddler or eager to test your grit for the first time, this is your chance to push yourself, build team synergy, and enjoy some friendly competition on the water. After training, kick back with a cold beer (or a non-alcoholic drink) and soak in the stunning sunset with your crew. Click on the link below to sign up! [https://tinyurl.com/newpaddler2024](https://tinyurl.com/newpaddler2024). **Details of the event:** Time: 2:30pm pls be punctual. Cage will close at 2:45pm sharp. Price: SGD 25 can be paid at the venue or via Paynow during RSVP. Attire: * **Bring atleast 1 liter WATER BOTTLE** to the boat! [#ReduceSingleUsePlastic](https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/reducesingleuseplastic?__eep__=6&__cft__%5B0%5D=AZXfrs-dICVI-TFJNA1Akk7G6_MS3hlt4aBHNLxQGpK_xHWL7Ivg2rst-MA0LzjJdCd8bjyfUXMmdvrpBdI-PaCnZXd0LryMSI2mqYzsOEtDrQmL7-l0LRf82viJTGzEp1w&__tn__=q) \- Any outdoor workout attire \+ rubber slippers or water shoes \- Bring sun protection \- Your belongings will be locked in the cage If you require more information on the event you can drop us a msg or click on the link to chat with us. [https://chat.whatsapp.com/IVS3j8ZBQpc7TFotOyfi1D](https://chat.whatsapp.com/IVS3j8ZBQpc7TFotOyfi1D)

Want to check out what dragonboat paddling is all about? Whether you are seasoned paddler or a newcomer, we welcome you to try out dragon boating with the German Dragons and end off the session with **ICE COLD BEER**! All paddling equipments and life vests are provided! **WHAT to bring:** \- comfortable sports attire\, flip\-flops\, hat\, sun glasses \- water \( min 1.5L) \- sun lotion **WHERE and WHEN:** \- 2:30PM meet at the boat nursery\, 5 Stadium Rd (be on time at our cage as we cannot wait for late-comers) \- grab your paddle\, life vest\, lock your belongings\, then warm\-up \- water training till 5PM \- after 5PM cool\-down\, chilled drinks\, freshly brewed Paulaner beer **Cost** $25 includes your training session and an awesome time over a keg of beer as post-training fuel! Pay on-site Send us a message for further enquiries. Looking forward to meeting you this Saturday!

**This class is for all ages.** ### **Address** 1 Hougang Street 93, Singapore 534238 ### **Schedule** Saturdays 7PM - 9PM ### **Booking Information** * Please contact **98225900** to find out how to book this class. * The instructor will reach out to you once you've booked the class.

✨ Connect with us over a day of fun climbs and an (optional) night of dinner + board games! ✨ 🧗 What is bouldering? Bouldering is a sub-discipline of rock climbing, that is done without a harness on a lower wall, with safety pads. It involves finding the right sequence to reach the end of a route, very much like a maze or puzzle. The problem-solving, social nature of climbing has been shown to boost self-esteem and confidence, as well as reduce depression and anxiety levels. (read the relevant papers here) What to expect 👀 (Note: the event officially starts at 3pm) ‼️ If you're new to climbing, we will run you through an introduction into bouldering. 🧘 3pm - 3:30pm: Warm up & 5 mins mindfulness (optional) 🧗 3:30pm - 7pm: Climb 🎲 7pm till late: We'll have dinner over card games or go to a board game cafe (see vibes that day) What to bring? Comfortable sports attire (long pants recommended!) Climbing shoes + chalk (if you have) Price list: Passes usually range from 25 - 28 depending on the gym Host's multipass are about 20 Rental shoes cost 5 📝 Things to note: Please join our telegram chat before coming ([link](https://t.me/+jXJ0Ia_jVMg1ZDQ1)) We vote on the next gym to visit in our tele chat, so stay tuned for updates! The group size is deliberately small to keep things cosy, so if you can't make it, please let us know ASAP.

Perhaps less explored than Singapore's more tourist-worn trails, the corridor stretching from Queenstown to the **Singapore River** holds a quiet richness that rewards those who slow down and look closely. Starting at **Queenstown** , we cross over the bridge and into the greenery of the **Park Connector**, tracing a path that weaves between the old and the new. Along the way, we pass the serene **Church of the Good Shepherd** and stroll through the tranquil **Alexandra Canal Linear Park** — a pocket of calm in the heart of the city. From there, we ascend to the iconic **Sky Terrace at Dawson HDB** — one of Singapore's most celebrated public housing developments, soaring **47 storeys high** with sweeping views that reframe the city entirely. A true testament to how Singapore has reimagined everyday living. Rejoining the **Park Connector**, we continue past the historic **Masjid Jamek** before arriving at the beloved **Zion Food Court** famous for its Char-Kway-Teow — a perfect pitstop for a taste of local Singapore hawker delicacies. Then, the walk takes on a new character as we enjoy our evening stroll along the **Singapore River**, one of the nation's most storied waterways. We follow the river's gentle bends, crossing the elegant **Jiak Kim Bridge**, pass the **Rainbow Bridge** before our walk concludes at the vibrant **Clarke Quay** — where history, food, and the city's pulse all come together at the water's edge. This is a walk of contrasts: lush park connectors and towering HDB sky gardens, quiet places of worship and buzzing riverside promenades, heritage and modernity side by side. Come discover a side of Singapore many pass through but few truly see. **Event Details:** Limited to 24 members. (No guests — please ask your friends to RSVP individually.) *(**Note:** Priority will be given to members joining upcoming overseas trips and those who have never joined any of our free walks or hikes before.)* 📱 **Please include your mobile number when you RSVP** — this is needed for safety grouping and communication during the walk. *Full details will be sent to all confirmed participants once RSVP closes.* **EVENT HOST: MJ 87511073**

🌿 Sunday Morning Brisk Walk @ Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve 🌿 Start your Sunday with fresh air, scenic views, and great company! Join us for a refreshing brisk walk through the tranquil beauty of Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve — one of Singapore’s hidden gems for nature lovers 🌱 📅 Date: 3 May 2026, Sunday ⏰ Time: 8:15am - 10:30am 📍 Meeting Point: NS7 Kranji MRT exit (bus stop) What to expect: ✨ A moderate-paced brisk walk suitable for most fitness levels ✨ Beautiful mangrove trails, coastal views & wildlife spotting (birds, monitor lizards & more!) ✨ A peaceful escape from the city hustle What to bring: 💧 Water bottle 🧢 Cap / sunscreen 👟 Comfortable walking shoes 📸 Optional: camera for nature shots Whether you’re looking to stay active, unwind in nature, or meet like-minded people, this walk is a perfect way to recharge your weekend 🌞

eXplorerSG 2026 / 0305 Walk-Talk-eAT Event \~ Singapore Quarry / Dairy Farm Upper Loop / Devil's Steps / Jungle Fall Path / Cave Path / Bt Timah Summit / Dairy Farm Lower Loop 🐒 Nature Trails 🌬 Fresh Air 🌞 HOT Sun 🎢 Undulating Terrain 🪖 Good Workout with Steps Climbing #heArT-pumping 💓 #sweATbreaking ! ❤‍🔥 🌱 Walk Details 👟 Date: 3 May 2026, Sun Reporting Time: 130pm (Briefing) Start Walking @ 147pm / No waiting for latecomers Meeting point: ⛰️ Hillview MRT / EXIT A \*Meet on Street Level, Station Entrance End point ♻️ Hillview MRT / Food @ Rail Mall Estimated 4hr Distance >12k Elevation \ ~Summit 163.63m / Devil's Steps 184 steps estimated \*moderate difficulty ? ⛑️ [Disclaimer for all eXplorerSG 2025 events By participating in the event, you acknowledge that it involves inherent risks, including but not limited to falls, injuries, and exposure to the elements. You are solely responsible for your own safety and well-being Items to bring Sports attire with sports/hiking shoes Raincoat/Umbrella Hat/Cap (Important!) Sunscreen Mosquito repellent Water (recommended 1 litre) Walking Stick (recommended for better support!) Additional Notes Please update your RSVP by 2 May 2026, Sat @ 747pm. For those who have stated ‘Going’, but do not come on the actual day, we will limit your participation in future events. In the event of adverse weather conditions, the hike may be cancelled. We will update BEFORE 6am on Event Day. 🤜🏽🤛🏻 We can only get better and form our new Walk-Talk-eAT Community together, with your AcTive participation and objecTive feedback. After our eXhilarating eVent... we can share our eXciting eXplorerSG eXperience (XXX) over light refreshments replenishing what we have burnt 🔥 Cyall fellow eXplorerS...🎟🥾👟

**TRAIL RUN GROUP** ***WHO SHOULD ATTEND ?*** This group is a LEISURE run group. So whether you are a beginner or have years of experience, this group will suit you. ***WHAT TO EXPECT? ( for our trail run group)*** Our trail runs are relaxed and welcoming — no pressure, no competition! * Ages range from 25 to 70, with all fitness levels. * Everyone sets their own pace — some run, some do a run-walk mix, and some prefer to walk. * We don’t run as a pack, but one member always keeps pace with the slowest so no one gets lost. * A session usually lasts **30–45 minutes**, depending on your pace. We typically have **9–12 regulars** (RSVPs here don’t reflect full attendance, as some register through our chat group). After the run, we usually hang out for a short dinner or drink — a nice way to wind down together. 🥗🍹 ***DISTANCE COVERED :*** About 5 km ***VENUE:*** We go all over Singapore for our trail adventures but our BASE VENUE is at the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. ***TIMING:*** For trail runs, we meet once every 2 weeks on Sunday 5pm. The run usually ends around 7pm . ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ **\*Sunday, 3rd May 2026, 4:45 PM\*** **Labrador Park MRT to Telok Blangah Hill & back** **ROUTE:** **Labrador Park(LP) MRT > Earth Trail > Telok Telok Blangah Hill > Back to LP MRT** ***Mix of trails, steps, slopes & roads*** **DISTANCE:** **4-5 km** **START TIME :** **Run starts PUNCTUALLY at 5:00 pm** **Please be at the meet-up point by 4:45 pm** **Unable to wait for latecomers** **MEET-UP & START POINT :** **Labrador Park MRT** **END POINT:** **Labrador Park MRT** **DINNER/DRINK:** **Alexandra Retail Centre**

Perhaps less explored than Singapore's more tourist-worn trails, the corridor stretching from Queenstown to the Singapore River holds a quiet richness that rewards those who slow down and look closely. Starting at **Queenstown** , we cross over the bridge and into the greenery of the **Park Connector**, tracing a path that weaves between the old and the new. Along the way, we pass the serene **Church of the Good Shepherd** and stroll through the tranquil **Alexandra Canal Linear Park** — a pocket of calm in the heart of the city. From there, we ascend to the iconic **Sky Terrace at Dawson HDB** — one of Singapore's most celebrated public housing developments, soaring 47 storeys high with sweeping views that reframe the city entirely. A true testament to how Singapore has reimagined everyday living. Rejoining the **Park Connector**, we continue past the historic **Masjid Jamek** before arriving at the beloved **Zion Food Court** — a perfect pitstop for a taste of local Singapore. Then, the walk takes on a new character as we reach the **start of the Singapore River**, one of the nation's most storied waterways. We follow the river's gentle bends, crossing the elegant **Jiak Kim Bridge**, before our walk concludes at the vibrant **Clarke Quay** — where history, food, and the city's pulse all come together at the water's edge. This is a walk of contrasts: lush park connectors and towering HDB sky gardens, quiet places of worship and buzzing riverside promenades, heritage and modernity side by side. Come discover a side of Singapore many pass through but few truly see. **Event Details:** Limited to 12 members. No guests — please ask your friends to RSVP individually. *(Priority will be given to members joining upcoming overseas trips and those who have never joined any of our free walks or hikes before.)* 📱 **Please include your mobile number when you RSVP** — this is needed for safety grouping and communication during the walk. *Full details will be sent to all confirmed participants once RSVP closes.* EVENT HOST: MJ 87511073

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.

**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.

We will meet next to the restrooms at the [Big Meadows Picnic Area](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/HBK_Web_1980.png). They're all the way at the back of the park, and they can be found at coordinates [40°09'06.6"N 83°02'30.2"W](https://www.google.com/maps/place/40%C2%B009'06.6%22N+83%C2%B002'30.2%22W/@40.151828,-83.0423587,214m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m10!1m5!3m4!2zNDDCsDA5JzA4LjAiTiA4M8KwMDEnNDUuMSJX!8m2!3d40.1522222!4d-83.0291944!3m3!8m2!3d40.151827!4d-83.041715?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTIwNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) (near the playground and the zip line). We'll hike about 5 miles at [Highbanks Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/highbanks/) on the Dripping Rock and Overlook Trails. Afterward, we'll head over to [Olentangy River Brewing](https://www.olentangybrew.com/) for drinks, coffee, or food (their Sunday [food truck](https://www.olentangybrew.com/eventsandfood) is Venezuelan and always gets good reviews). The actual address of the brewery is [303 Green Meadows Dr S, 43035](https://www.google.com/maps/place/303+Green+Meadows+Dr+S,+Lewis+Center,+OH+43035/@40.1551938,-83.0144045,17.25z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x8838f395cef06c97:0xe407de61b3e30069!8m2!3d40.1551765!4d-83.0124352!16s%2Fg%2F11c26jc7j9?entry=ttu). If you can't make the hike, we should be there by noon. **How to find our starting point in Big Meadows:** If you are new to Highbanks, the Big Meadows picnic area is 1.5 miles into the park just after you turn into the park off of U.S. Route 23. That is, after you enter the park, drive a mile and a half into the park. You will come to a crosswalk with a yield sign in the middle of it (this is not to be confused with the first such crosswalk you come to just in front of the Nature Center, which you arrive at maybe a quarter of a mile into the park). Just after this second crosswalk, make a left. Then make another almost immediate left into the parking lot on your left. There you will see the jungle gym and the kiddie zip line to your left. I will be just in front of the restrooms just a bit further down from the jungle gym and picnic shelter; the restroom building will also be on your left.

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

Hike approx 4.0 miles at approx. 18 minute mile pace. Meet in front of the Nature Center.

We will hike the Ridge Trail and Meadows Trail twice, for a total of 3.8 miles. There are some pretty good inclines so plan on getting a cardio workout :). This is a loop which is pretty easy to follow; thus faster walkers can take the lead and the rest (like me) will bring up the rear at a slightly slower pace. You could also just do the loop once for 1.9 miles. No one left behind. Optional lunch to follow in Canal Winchester. I'm working through the metro parks - this is the third one!

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)