Outdoor Adventures

Meet: Yishun MRT Passenger Service Centre When: Thursday 23rd April, 5 pm\*\* \*\*Bring a pail to soak in the hot springs as there may not be enough space for everyone in the hot spring. You can also bring eggs to boil :-) \*\* Did you know that there is a Hot Spring in Singapore? **Sembawang Hot Spring Park** is a natural [hot spring](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hot_spring) and a public park in [Singapore](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Singapore).[\[1\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sembawang_Hot_Spring_Park#cite_note-ST-Dominic-1) It is located beside a military camp about 100 meters (330 ft) off the main road, Gambas Avenue. Like hot springs worldwide, it can have health-healing properties with proper use in moderation, and its natural spring water had once been bottled commercially by [Fraser and Neave](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fraser_and_Neave), under the brand name of Seletaris. Since its discovery in 1909, the spring has been through a few changes of ownership and potential redevelopment proposals. The hot spring has a rural rustic feel for visitors to unwind from the hustle and bustle of the modern metropolitan city. Visit the hot springs and soak in it! Join in the walk, and enjoy the wonderful views of Singapore and the nature surrounding you. We shall have dinner at Canberra hawker centre. See you there! :-) What to bring: \- Shades \- umbrellas \- Water \- Good walking shoes \- Long pants preferred \- Mosquito Repellent This is a Rain or Shine event. Where there are thunderstorms, we will adjourn for coffee or early dinner. We will resume the walk once the rain subsides. Event communication will be through the event chat. Please check the event chat on the day of the event so that you will be updated on any changes. Please 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. 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.***

Thank you for your interest in this 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 18 (excl hosts) * 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 a more detailed trip brochure by contacting the Event Host (see details below) * We kindly request that you familiarize yourself with our terms and conditions prior to registering by visiting the following link:[https://www.liveopenly.net/terms-and-conditions](https://www.liveopenly.net/terms-and-conditions) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **🔥 Mount Rinjani Expedition – Summit Sunrise & Crater Lake Camping 🌋** Ready to conquer one of Indonesia’s most breathtaking volcano treks? This April, join us for a 5-day epic adventure to the summit of Mount Rinjani (3,726m), where every step rewards you with awe-inspiring views, crater lake camping, and soothing hot springs. ✅ Trip Highlights: 💫 Hike to the majestic Rinjani summit for a golden sunrise 💫Camp by the turquoise Segara Anak crater lake under a sea of stars 💫Relax in natural hot springs after a rewarding climb 💫Experience the raw beauty and volcanic landscapes of Lombok 💫 Relax and unwind in Sengigi Beach post hike 📅 Date: 24 – 28 April 2026 📍 Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights Contact Gary 📲 https://wa.me/93279220 for booking & enquiries Or simply fill out this form: https://au.sg/CallMeBack Trip Brochure: [Mount Rinjani Expedition Via Torrean April 2026](https://au.sg/Rinjani-April2026) **🔥 Summit. Soak. Stargaze. Repeat.** **#RinjaniExpedition #TrekWithAU #AdventureUnlimited #IndonesiaTrekking** **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.facebook.com/theadventurevillage/posts/pfbid0eejRJvX8XCJLfjS9Wxx18CxPYwAefLUDGn83w9JyspzVMJdnAfmVfeLgUmB9Ut9ol) **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 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

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

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

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)

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

http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/5/8/7/600_434874663.jpeg Bring water, wear sporty attire (long pants & covered shoes + rubber sole and the waiver form (can be found on website)

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. 🙏

## 🚶‍♂️ 6:00pm – Start Walking (CRITICAL) You must **start by 6:00pm latest** to catch sunset at jetty. *** ## 🌇 6:00pm – 6:50pm (Golden Hour City Walk) Route: * Gardens → Marina Bay → Helix Bridge → ECP connector **Pacing:** relaxed but steady **Goal:** reach ECP before sunset window 💡 This is your **best engagement phase** *** ## 🌅 6:50pm – 7:15pm (Sunset at Bedok Jetty) 📍 Bedok Jetty * Ideal arrival: **\~6:55pm–7:05pm** * Sunset: \~7:10pm **What to do:** * Pause here (don’t rush past this moment) * Group photos + free time * Let people soak in the experience *** ## 🌊 7:15pm – 7:45pm (Post-Sunset Coastal Walk) * Slow, relaxed pace * Conversations flow naturally * Sky still glowing (afterglow effect) *** ## 🍜 7:45pm – 8:45pm (Dinner Block) 📍 East Coast Lagoon Food Village * Strongly encourage people to join * Sit in small groups (6–8 pax for bonding) 💡 This is where relationships actually deepen *** ## 🚶‍♂️ 8:45pm – 9:05pm (Final Short Walk) * Walk toward Bayshore MRT * Easy 15–20 min cooldown walk *** ## 🚇 9:05pm – 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**

Join us for a refreshing nature escape from **Kranji Reservoir to Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve**—a perfect blend of scenic exploration, wildlife spotting, and a rewarding cross-border food adventure. **📅 Event Details** **Meeting Point:** Kranji MRT Exit A (08:30am) Kranji Reservoir Car Park B (09:00am) **Duration of Walk:** \~2-2.5 hours (leisure pace, flat surface) **Jiak:** Bus to the Checkpoint → Johor Bahru for a well-deserved late lunch **🌱 What to Expect** We’ll explore **Singapore’s first ASEAN Heritage Park**, known for its rich biodiversity and role as a sanctuary for migratory birds. This leisurely walk offers a chance to reconnect with nature while discovering some of the reserve’s most unique highlights: * **Eagle Point** Watch the skies for majestic eagles and other raptors gliding and hunting فوق the coastal waters. * **Mangrove Boardwalk** Wander through lush mangrove forests on elevated paths—no muddy shoes required—while observing fascinating flora and fauna up close. * **Kingfisher Pod** One of the scenic coastal pods offering uninterrupted views of the wetlands and sea—perfect for a quiet pause or photo moment. *** **🦎 Wildlife Encounters (if luck is on our side!)** Keep your eyes peeled for: * **Malayan Water Monitors** and possibly rarer species like the *Clouded Monitor* or *Dumeril’s Monitor* * The elusive **Estuarine Crocodile**, occasionally seen basking or gliding through the water *** After the walk, you can choose to join us for jiak in JB or end the walk there. We’ll hop on a bus to the Checkpoint and head into **Johor Bahru for a relaxed late lunch**—a great way to end the walk with good food and even better company. *** **👟 What to Bring** * Comfortable walking shoes * Water bottle * Hat/sunscreen/umbrella * Insect repellent * Binoculars (optional, but great for birdwatching!) * \*\*\*\*Passport (for those planning to join us for lunch at JB)\*\*\*

Come join us for a casual Saturday morning stroll through the forest in Lower Pierce Reservoir *🌞* *Meet new friends while rediscovering Singapore with sunshine and fresh air for better health.* **Walking time:** 1.5 hours **Walking distance:** 3 to 5 km **Difficulty rating:** Easy stroll **When and where to Meet:** Saturday 25th Apr at 10:00 AM Car park on Old Upper Thomson Rd near the Casuarina entrance of Lower Pierce trail (next to Sembawang Baptist Church, 140 Casuarina Rd. 579528) **What will we do on the walk?** * An easy stroll along the wooden boardwalk through the forest of Lower Pierce Reservoir. * Enjoy the sunshine, fresh air and forest trees * Spot wide range of wildlife from mammals to aquatic creatures * Enjoy the wonderful panoramic view of the water surrounded by a luxurious forest **Don't forget:** * Wear comfortable walking shoes. * Bring water to stay hydrated during the walk. **How to connect with organizers?** Join this telegram group **Sun. Trail. Walk. (Apr 25)** to connect with organizers on the day. https://t.me/+nRcRgVkjzgZmOTVl This chat will be closed after the walk **Transport:** **MRT:** Upper Thompson MRT (TE8) on Thomson East Coast Line. Walk to bus stop @ Bef Thomson Plaza Upper Thomson Station Exit 5. **Bus**: 163, 167, 169, 855, 980. Alight at the bus stop nearest to the Sembawang Hill Food Court and walk along Old Upper Thomson Road towards Lower Peirce Reservoir Park. The entrance to the trail (Casuarina Entrance) is about five minutes away **Car**: Follow the direction of Upper Thomson Road. Turn left before the traffic lights at the junction of Ang Mo Kio Avenue 1 into Old Upper Thomson Road. Follow the road until you see the entrance of the trail. Parking facilities are available along the road near the Casuarina Entrance. **Note:** Any changes due to the weather conditions will be communicated to this group. **Disclaimer:** This is not a guided tour. But, it is a great way to meet new people, explore Singapore, and chat with wonderful people coming from all around.

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:** 25 Apr 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 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 who genuinely wishes to come. #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

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:** 26 Apr 2026 (Sun) **Meeting Time:** 8am **Meeting point:** Lavender MRT Exit B **Route:** Lavender MRT Exit A ➝ Stadium ➝ Marina Barrage ➝ ArtScience Museum (~8.5km) **Notes:** · Have some light snacks before the workout if required · Bring sufficient water 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 who genuinely wishes to come. #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

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

**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.

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!

if you’re **tired of doing the same boring thing** every weekend, this is your excuse to **do something different.** This is **not just a comedy show.** It’s a full **Saturday night experience** at Shadybowl Speedway — a **BYOB** potluck cookout, **live racing,** a late-night **bonfire**, open mic **comedy under the stars**, and **free camping** if you want to stay the night. We’re basically **throwing a party in the middle of nowhere** — about an hour west of Columbus and an hour north of Dayton ### The experience **Start early with the cookout** Come out around **4:00 PM** for a potluck-style cookout. Bring something to share, hang out, have a few drinks, and meet people before the night gets rolling. **Then head into the races** Racing starts around **7:00–8:00 PM** at Shadybowl. **Bring a chair** and sit with us in **Turn 4** — best seats in the house. **in front of concrete spots** 58,59 **ask for Chance** Think **racing isn’t your thing?** That’s fine. **Bring something to drink** and come for the atmosphere, the noise, and **the wrecks.** **Then the real vibe kicks in** Once the races wind down, we head back to the fire for **Late Night Bonfire Comedy** starting around **11:30 PM**. This is open mic style, so you might catch comics traveling through, a local favorite, somebody trying stand-up for the first time. Either way, **you’re getting laughs around a bonfire** with drinks, good people, and nowhere else to be. **Stay the night if you want** No rush. No long drive home if you don’t want it. **Free camping on-site** — bring a tent, **sleep in your car,** or just **hang out late by the fire.** ### What to know **Saturday, May 9, 2026** * **Cookout starts around 4:00 PM** * **Racing starts around 7:00–8:00 PM** * **Bonfire comedy starts at 11:30 PM** * **BYOB, No glass inside the race.** * **Free camping, Bring a chair** * **Shadybowl admission is $15 cash only.** * **Free parking** ### How to reserve your spot This is a **ticketed group experience**. A **$5 reservation** helps us organize the night, reduce no-shows, and make sure the people coming are actually coming. Send **$5 per person**. Send **$20 and i will get your Admission ticket for the races.** USE PAYMENT Link Found in Comments. **(preferred)** Venmo PayPal, Cashapp accepted **@WiseUnlimitedLLC $WiseUnlimitedLLC** Include your **name + event name** in the note. Link posted in the comments. Be sure to Drop a comment on this post after you RSVP this helps the algorithm. Come for the cookout. Stay for the races. Laugh around the fire. Camp if you want.