Outdoor Adventures
Meet other local nature enthusiasts and enjoy new outdoor adventures with them!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out outdoor adventures events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the outdoor adventures events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find outdoor adventures events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Outdoor Adventures Events Today
Join in-person Outdoor Adventures events happening right now
⛰️⬆️↘️🪖 Rifle Range-Quarry-Bt Timah Summit (BTS)-Catchment Path-MacRitchie
eXplorerSG 2026 / 0705 Walk-Talk-eAT eVent ~~>13km +Elevation 163.63m
🐒 Nature Trails 🌬 Fresh Air
🌞 Morning Sun
🎢 Undulating Terrain
🪖 Good Workout with Steps Climbing
🌱 Walk Details 👟
Date: 7 May 2026, Thu
Reporting Time: 730am (Briefing)
Start Walking @ 747am
Meeting point:
Beauty World MRT Station Control
End point:
Thomson Plaza
Estimated 3.5hrs ~4hrs
(2 rest points)
Distance >13km
Elevation~ Summit 163.63m + Stone Steps / Trails *moderate difficulty
Items to bring:
- Sports attire with sports/hiking shoes
- Raincoat/Umbrella
- Hat/Cap (Important!)
- Sunscreen
- Mosquito repellent
- Water (at least 1 litre)
- Walking Stick strongly recommended for better support!
⛑️ [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.
Additional Notes:
- For those who have stated ‘Going’ but eventually cannot make it for the event, please be considerate to those who are on the waitlist and update your RSVP by 6 May Wed @ 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 by 6am on event day.
-
- We will start walking punctually @ 747am and not wait for latecomers. Please be considerate to arrive at the meeting point by 730am for Briefing.
🤜🏽🤛🏻 We can only get better and form our new Community together, with your AcTive participation and objecTive feedback 😊
This hike might not be your usual walk in the gardens... but definitely one worth pumping your HeaRt and breaking SWeat over! ❤🔥
After our eXhilarating hike... we can share our eXciting eXperience over light refreshments replenishing what we have burnt 🔥💞
Cyall fellow eXplorerS ! 🎟🥾👟
RUMBLE (MAY SERIES)
Welcome back to Rumble. This year our focus is to help you climb stronger, descend safer, and move more confidently on hikes. We’ll keep our 4 core stations — feet and calves, engine, climbing strength, and downhill control — so you can actually feel progress over the weeks, not just get through a workout!
**Meeting Place:** as seen in the image (Right next to Old Hill Street Police Station; opposite Funan)
Accessible via different MRT lines and bus stops
3 min walk from Clarke Quay Stn Exit E
**Duration:** 1.5h
**Level:** Intermediate
**What to expect:**
1. Warm-up & dynamic stretching
1. Stamina, Stability and Single Leg strengthening exercises with Stairs/Steps :)
1. Jogging/briskwalking between stations
**Items to bring/wear**
* comfortable sports attire and appropriate shoes
* (Arm-length) Towel and water bottle
* Most of us will be carrying our bags as part of hike training (you can choose to leave them in your car if you’re driving or bring a small bag)
Make sure you are able to run with your bag! (e.g. BACKPACK)
**Note:**
* In the event of wet weather, the event will be cancelled. However, if it is just a light drizzle, we may still proceed with caution or head to AU office for Signature Indoor Workout.
* If you will be late or unable to make it, please inform me in advance (WA +6597318648) or update your RSVP by 8 p.m. the night before so that I can inform the next person on the waitlist.
* We’re capping this at **20 pax per session** so it stays focused and manageable.
* Priority will go to 2026 AU trip participants and Elite AU club members. If there are slots left, it will be given to members of the publi.c If you’re on the waitlist, it may not move strictly in order as trip participants are prioritised.
We will start on time so come at least 5 minutes earlier!
If you’ve done Rumble before, you already know what this is about.
If you haven’t — come try once. You’ll either love it or hate me slightly. Both are acceptable.
Join us for more adventures at: https://bit.ly/3Rv6XrT
Telegram: https://t.me/liveopenly
Whatsapp Community https://bit.ly/AUBroadcast
Hiking and Snorkeling Cebu with me in May
I am heading to cebu to attend a music festival that is happening on the 9th. And looking for companions to join me.
The last time I was there, I find their mountains, whale shark experience, waterfalls and beaches absolutely breathtaking beautiful.
So this trip will include that. It's sharing cost of a car and private driver to take us around. And everything else at cost. I am just looking for travel company. All activities are optional
**Cebu Trip schedule as follows, and costs :**
**Date : 6th May (wed) to 10th May (Sunday)**
Renting a Car and Driver, including his accomodations for 4 days (SGD 534) to be split
***ITINERARY***
**6th May wed**
SQ flight depart singapore at 11am, arrive at 3pm.
Driver pick us up from airport to go Moalbaol.
Check in hotel, chillax evening
**7th May Thu**
Hiking 4 peaks includes hiking guide - SGD39 per pax
Visit Kawasan Waterfall -SGD 17 per pax
**8th May Fri**
Swimming with Whale shark - SGD22.5 per pax
Sardines Run and Giant Turtles Snorkel with snorkel guide - SGD 13.5 per pax
Island Hopping Snorkeling trip including boat - SGD 50 per pax
**9th May Sat**
Leave from Maolbaol back to Cebu, can get driver to take us on city tour if we want. Free and Easy day for all to explore cebu city.
**10th May Sun**
Last min shopping in the morning. Flight home at 3.40pm. Reach singapore by 7.30pm.
Accomodation wise, I will try to look for rooms below SGD50 per night budget. This part is flexible, you can book your own too.
Flight tickets right now SGD508 return SIA.
PM me if anybody else interested to join.
Food Coma Alert! $8.90 Lunch Buffet!
$8.90 Buffet Alert! 🍴
Craving a delicious feed without burning a hole in your pocket? 🤑
Join us for a lunch at Dragon's Bite this Wednesday and indulge in their amazing buffet spread! 😍
Let's chow down and get to know each other 😊
When: Wednesday 6th May
Where: Dragon's Bite
Time: 12 noon
Price: $8.90 buffet
The menu is on the photo of this event page
Come hungry, come curious! 😄
Dragon’s Bite
20 Cavan Road
4 hrs Outdoor Volleyball 🏐
Court 1/2 (MOE Evans)
6pm to 10pm
Inter to Advance
High Intermediate Recre session.
Please pay during or after the session.
Parkour Training
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)
Outdoor Adventures Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
*6th Ave to Rifle Range Jalan Jalan 🦋🌈✌️🚶♀️😎
Join us for a refreshing evening walk from Sixth Avenue to Rifle Range 🌿✨, as we ease into a scenic route that blends quiet neighbourhood charm with pockets of lush greenery. Expect a peaceful journey with tranquil nature trails, perfect for unwinding and meeting new friends along the way. Come for the fresh air, good company, and a simple yet rewarding escape into one of Singapore’s greener corridors 🌇🌳😊.
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 cancellation 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. 🙏
[Brisk Walk] Treetop Hike
Meet: Upper Thomson MRT Control Station
When: Sunday 10th May - 2:30 pm\*
Difficulty: Moderate (uneven terrain, forested area)
\*\*\*This is a 12km BRISK WALK (4km/h) from Upper Thomson to Beauty World via the MacRitchie Reservoir. **This HIKE is not suitable for beginners!** **Only join if you are fit, and able to brisk walk @ 4km/h over uneven terrain.** \*\*\*
\*Please note the starting time. We will walk mainly in the forested areas, so there is a lot of shade from the heat. We will need at least 3 hours for the walk. We start early as the Treetop bridge closes by 4:30 pm.
\*\*This is a Rain or Shine event. Please take a good lunch or bring along some snacks if you feel hungry along the way. Our walks are usually between 8 - 12 km long. Just so you know, the weather may be hot but as the sun sets, the weather should be cooler.
Please be punctual. You are encouraged to be slightly early to avoid disappointments. There will be 5 minutes grace for attendance taking. Please remember that we cannot wait because this would be unfair to those already present.
We will walk from Macritchite Park to the Treetop Walk and onwards to Beauty World via Rifle Range Park. This walk will be of moderate difficulty as there will be a fair amount of climbing and uneven terrain.
The TreeTop Walk is a 250m-long freestanding suspension bridge between the two highest points in the Central Catchment Nature Reserve (MacRitchie), and the first of its kind in Singapore. From the suspension bridge, you may delight in a bird’s eye view of the forest canopy and spot different wildlife in their natural habitat. You can also enjoy panoramic views of the verdant greenery of the Central Catchment Nature Reserve and the placid waters of Upper Peirce Reservoir.
Dinner will be at Beauty World.
See you there! :-)
References: https://www.nparks.gov.sg/-/media/nparks-real-content/gardens-parks-and-nature/diy-walk/diy-walk-pdf-files/treetop_walk_eguide_lres.pdf
What to bring:
\- Shades
\- umbrellas
\- Water
\- Good walking shoes
\- Long pants preferred
\- Mosquito Repellent
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 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 be sure to RSVP responsibly to help those who are on the waitlist get the chance to come for the walks.
***You should confirm your RSVPs the day before the event to allow those on the waitlist 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.***
East Coast Sunset Walk
## 🚶♂️ 415pm – Start Walking (CRITICAL)
You must **start by 415pm latest** to catch sunset at jetty.
***
## 🌇 430pm – 530pm (Golden Hour City Walk)
Route:
* Gardens → Marina Bay → Helix Bridge → ECP connector
**Pacing:** relaxed but steady
**Goal:** reach ECP before sunset window
***
📍 Bedok Jetty
* Ideal arrival: **\~6pm–630pm**
* Sunset: \~630pm
**What to do:**
* Pause here (don’t rush past this moment)
* Group photos + free time
* Let people soak in the experience
***
## 🌊 630pm – 7pm (Post-Sunset Coastal Walk)
* Slow, relaxed pace
* Conversations flow naturally
* Sky still glowing (afterglow effect)
***
## 🍜 7pm – 8pm (Dinner Block)
📍 East Coast Lagoon Food Village
* Strongly encourage people to join
* Sit in small groups (6–8 pax for bonding)
***
## 🚶♂️ 8pm – 830pm (Final Short Walk)
* Walk toward Bayshore MRT
* Easy 15–20 min cooldown walk
***
## 🚇830pm – End
📍 Bayshore MRT
Clean, satisfying finish ✅
***
# 📏 Distance & pacing reality check
* Total distance: **\~8–9km**
* Total walking time: \~2.5–3 hours (with stops)
* Suitable for beginners **if pace is controlled**
Sunset Walk: Rower's Park -> Aerospace Park, Hampstead Wetlands Park
***Guests are not allowed; only members are permitted***. All must register on this page. **Only members on the RSVP list are permitted**.
**Why is no guest allowed?**
**ALL MUST READ & AGREE TO OUR DISCLAIMERS BELOW.**
**Reason: Bad experience from past events: Guests often don't read our disclaimer & follow our rules, as they are not required to RSVP,** which is typically done by friends who are members of our group.
=> **Guest**, please sign up as our member - it is free anyway.
MEETUP POINT: Will be at a bus stop - announced later.
End time \~ **745 pm around Yishun Point**
Ⱶ●Ⱶ●Ⱶ●Ⱶ●Ⱶ●Ⱶ●
**What's the plan**?
A very scenic sunset walk [no hike]
The Seletar Aerospace Park area features the scenic 0.8km [Rower's Bay Park Connector](https://pcn.nparks.gov.sg/rowers-bay/) and the [Seletar West Park Connector](https://pcn.nparks.gov.sg/seletar-west-pc/), offering wide, picturesque paths for cycling and hiking. It provides views of [Seletar Airport](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seletar_Aerospace_Park) and connects to wider regional networks.
* **Rower's Bay Park Connector:** Features amenities like shelters, bicycle racks, and self-help repair stations.
* **Seletar West Park Connector:** Known for its scenic, wide, and flat path, making it ideal for leisure cycling, though some sections may be dark at night.
* **Connectivity:** It forms part of the larger northeastern cycling loop connecting to Yishun Dam, Jalan Kayu, and Sengkang/Punggol.
**Nearby Points of Interest:**
* Seletar Aerospace Park (SAP)
* Seletar Airport
* The Oval @ Seletar Aerospace Park (colonial bungalows, cafes, restaurants)
* Rower's Bay Reservoir
***The latest and unpublished PCN is the highlight of this hike, 3 km [in / out] of trail with a reservoir on 1 side, a beautiful landscaped golf course on the other side. It is not fully connected, so a U-turn is needed; maybe this is the reason it is not published***?
**Who is Suitable**?
Anyone who can walk 12-14 km
𝗠𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗯𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗺𝘀!
Comfortable attire. At least 1.0 litres of water, sunblock, rain gear, and torchlight
**Shoe**: Wear comfortable shoes.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗶𝗳 𝗶𝘁 𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘀?
Please stay informed & check this event page for updates & the final decision of the event.
**Disclaimer** :
Singapore Adventurous Nature-Lovers Meetup is an amateur adventure platform that welcomes all outdoor adventure seekers. By joining the activities, all participants are deemed to have agreed to the terms and conditions contained in this disclaimer, and agreed to exonerate the activities leaders, the organisers and any other participants in the trips from any liabilities, claims, including but not limited to liabilities and claims as a result of any injuries or deaths or damages arising thereof.
The participant acknowledges that this is an adventure trip. The itinerary serves as a guide only, and flexibility may be required. The organisers cannot be held responsible for any changes/cancellations/delays caused by Airlines, accidents, strikes, government regulations, weather conditions or natural calamities, etc.
\****When you have turned up for this event, it is understood that you have read, agreed and accepted the above terms and conditions***\*.\*
Conditioning Workout @ Bukit Timah Hill
Have you experienced the power of habits, dedication, and small actions over time? This is your sign to start, or continue building on your past efforts!
“Consistency is what transforms average into excellence.” — Tony Robbins
**Date:** 9 May 2026 (Sat)
**Meeting Time:** 8am
**Meeting point:** Hillview MRT Exit A
**Route:**
Hillview MRT Exit A ➝ Dairy Farm Nature Park ➝ Bukit Timah Summit ➝ 2-3 Staircase Loops ➝ Bukit Timah Nature Reserve Visitor Centre
**Notes:**
· Advised to have some light breakfast before the workout
· Bring sufficient water (\~1L) and food/snacks for refuel
· Waterproof your items and be rain-equipped (rain cover, rain jacket, poncho, umbrella, etc.)
· Towel, small cloth or extra clothing for change out
· Hiking poles (optional)
· **RSVP**: If there is a change in availability, please update your RSVP at least one day in advance.
**Please read this:**
#1 – **Attendance.** This is a number-controlled event. Please come only if you are on the attending list. Please check your calendar and make sure you can come before RSVP, so as not to deny someone else from attending.
#2 – **Punctuality.** We will move out at 8.05am sharp. We are not able to wait for latecomers.
#3 – **Early Departure.** Please inform the Event Host if you need to leave early.
#4 – **Waitlist.** Please note that the waitlist may not be processed in order. We may prioritize spots for participants training for upcoming hikes/ trips.
#5 – **Weather Updates.** In case of severe weather conditions, we will provide an update or adjust the route accordingly.
**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.
Thank you for your understanding! See you there!
Join us on social media to keep updated with our latest adventures!
[https://bit.ly/m/Adventures-Unlimited](https://bit.ly/m/Adventures-Unlimited)
"Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out." — Robert Collier
Conditioning Workout @ Rail Corridor (BV)
Have you experienced the power of habits, dedication, and small actions over time? This is your sign to start, or continue building on your past efforts!
“Consistency is what transforms average into excellence.” — Tony Robbins
**Date:** 7 May 2026 (Thu)
**Meeting Time:** 8am
**Meeting point:** Buona Vista MRT Exit A (near the tunnel towards Holland V)
**Route:**
Buona Vista MRT Exit A ➝ Rail Corridor ➝ Gaharu Trail ➝ Rifle Range ➝ Beauty World (\~8.5km)
**Notes:**
· Have some light snacks before the workout if required
· Bring sufficient water (\~1L) and food/snacks for refuel
· Waterproof your items and be rain-equipped (rain cover, rain jacket, poncho, umbrella, etc.)
· Towel, small cloth or extra clothing for change out
· Hiking poles (optional)
· **RSVP**: If there is a change in availability, please update your RSVP at least one day in advance.
**Please read this:**
#1 – **Attendance.** This is a number-controlled event. Please come only if you are on the attending list. Please check your calendar and make sure you can come before RSVP, so as not to deny someone else from attending.
#2 – **Punctuality.** We will move out at 8.05am sharp. We are not able to wait for latecomers.
#3 – **Early Departure.** Please inform the Event Host if you need to leave early.
#4 – **Waitlist.** Please note that the waitlist may not be processed in order. We may prioritize spots for participants training for upcoming hikes/ trips.
#5 – **Weather.** In case of severe weather conditions, we will provide an update or adjust the route accordingly.
**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.
Thank you for your understanding! See you there!
Join us on social media to keep updated with our latest adventures!
[https://bit.ly/m/Adventures-Unlimited](https://bit.ly/m/Adventures-Unlimited)
"Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out." — Robert Collier
Endurance Push with Gary!
**Training Program-Focusing on stamina, mental resilience, and consistent pacing with no long breaks unless regrouping!**
🗓 Date: 8th May 2026(Fri)
⏰ Time: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📍Meetup: Kranji MRT Control Station
NOT SUITABLE FOR BEGINNER
🚶♂️Activity: Endurance Walk
📍Route: Kranji MRT→ Green Corridor → Zhenghua Park → Dairy Farm Loop→Bukit Timah Summit → Green Corridor → 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.
Outdoor Adventures Events Near You
Connect with your local Outdoor Adventures community
Trails & Ales! Blendon Woods Metro Park / Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery
**History**
The history of [Blendon Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blendon-woods/) began long before its 1951 opening, rooted in a landscape of rugged ridges and deep ravines that made the land unsuitable for traditional farming. In 1945, a report proposing a metropolitan park system for Franklin County specifically highlighted these cliffs of Bedford Shale as some of the "wildest land in the vicinity". Following this recommendation, the recently formed park district purchased the first 229 acres in early 1949. Because the terrain was so uneven, developers had to cut a mile-and-a-half-long roadway through dense woods just to bring in heavy equipment. This initial preservation effort ensured that the mature second-growth hardwood forests remained largely untouched by the urban expansion spreading toward Westerville.
Opening day arrived on Labor Day, September 3, 1951, marking Blendon Woods as the second park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The final push to open was a frantic race; the State Highway Department only finished the primary gravel access road four days before the gates opened. Early staff members, consisting of just four full-time employees, had to hand-dig pit toilets and learn construction skills on the fly to build the first picnic shelters. Despite the dusty conditions and limited facilities, the park was an immediate success, drawing massive crowds from across Central Ohio. By the end of the 1950s, annual visitation had already climbed to over 190,000 people.
As the surrounding suburbs grew in the 1960s, the park faced severe overcrowding that threatened its natural habitats. In response, Franklin County voters passed the first Metro Parks levy in 1960, providing the funds necessary for a decade of steady expansion. During this era, the park nearly doubled in size, growing from 264 acres to over 570 acres by 1968. Planners also addressed a critical water shortage by collaborating with the U.S. Soil and Conservation Service to build a lake in 1964. This body of water originally served as a temporary reservoir before its role shifted toward conservation and wildlife support.
The 1970s marked a transition toward the specialized wildlife and educational focus for which the park is known today. In 1971, the Walden Waterfowl Refuge was established around the 11-acre Thoreau Lake, creating a sanctuary that remains restricted to provide a quiet habitat for migratory birds. A formal nature center was also developed during this period, expanding on the guided Sunday walks that had been a park staple since the early 1950s. The park’s famous "Monarch Mansion" also became a prominent fixture, starting a long tradition of raising and releasing thousands of monarch butterflies each September. These initiatives cemented the park’s reputation as a premier destination for birders and nature enthusiasts.
In more recent decades, Blendon Woods has continued to modernize while maintaining its wilderness character. The 10-acre Natural Play Area was added in 2017, encouraging kids to explore the ravines and woods off-trail. This was followed by the opening of a $1.5 million inclusive playground in April 2025, designed to accommodate children of all physical abilities. The nature center also underwent major renovations to include immersive, three-dimensional exhibits and a new butterfly house. Today, the park encompasses 653 acres, preserving a unique geologic and biological corridor amidst the bustling Westerville and Northeast Columbus area.
**Map of the Park**
Here is a map of [Blendon Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/BLN_map_Inclusive-Playground-and-Butterfly-Trail_May-2025_1980px.png).
**Summary**
For this event, we will hike the Lake View, Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook, Brookside, and Sugarbush Trails. This sounds like a lot, but it will really be only a little over five miles. Blendon Woods has a few hills here and there, but it's not one of the more strenuous metro parks.
**Where We'll Meet**
We'll meet just in front of the Nature Center. This is about a mile into the park from the main entrance. You have to go past the Ranger Station and the Shadblow Reservable Area to get to it, so don't stop too early at the Ranger Station and get it confused with the Nature Center.
**After the Hike**
Afterward, we will head over to [Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/) at Easton for [drinks](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/#dinner-menu) and [food](https://forbiddenroot.com/wp-content/uploads/Cbus-Food.pdf). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.
The brewery's actual address is [4080 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4080+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88388a86d10b6619:0x4d42b470a5cf11d3?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111); however, I recommend pointing your GPS to the [Worth Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Worth+Garage/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388b4df6082825:0x17582f0eccd9dda1!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11rzfvvv8b?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) across the street. Parking in this garage is free as long as you're not on the first floor, and it is literally right next to the brewery.
Civic Park Hike
Join us for 2 loops of the 1.1 mile trail surrounding Civic Park In Reynoldsburg this Thursday (5/7) at 6:30 pm. This is a fully paved trail so no worries about mud after a rainy week. Just come and get some exercise while connecting with others.
Hike High Banks - 9:30 AM START
Hike approx 4.0 miles at approx. 17 minute mile pace. Meet in front of the Nature Center.
Hike Chestnut Ridge
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!
Women's Outdoor Skills and Wellness Workshop!
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)
Sharon Woods HIKE
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 .


















![[Brisk Walk] Treetop Hike](https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/4/e/9/9/highres_524120121.webp?w=640)









