Outdoor Adventures

## 🚶‍♂️ 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**

🔥 Taiwan East Coast Adventure 5D4N – Adventure With an Edge 📅 Apr 26–30 | 🚗 Private car + 👣 Local guide | ⚠️ Only 8 spots Wild Highlights: 🥾 Jinshuiying Trail 16–20KM – Primitive jungle, ancient forests, streams, and wildlife 🌿. Raw terrain, fully guided—finish it, and you’ve earned Taiwan’s wild east coast! ♨️ Zhiben Hot Springs & Forest Park – Recharge in nature, soak, and breathe in untouched landscapes. 🌊 Alangyi Ancient Trail 8KM – Untouched coastline, slippery reefs, ocean on one side, cliffs on the other. Cultural village + sunset over Kenting. 🚗 Private charter + small group – Explore hidden trails without crowds, fully supported. 🎒 What to Bring: Hiking shoes, 2–3L water, energy snacks. Optional: trekking poles, gloves, waterproof bag. ⚠️ Who This Is For: Fit, adventurous, 15KM+++ hikers. Not for those wanting “easy.”

**FULLY BOOKED!** Hi members, yes nature is thriving! So let's revisit some of those green places that we've not done for quite awhile. **Tampines Eco Green** is a beautiful hidden eco-friendly park that offers a sanctuary for flora and fauna and a place for nature recreation. It's a paradise for birds to build their nests and you'll get to see the butterflies, dragonflies as well as squirrels roaming around freely in this natural park. With various natural habitats such as open grasslands, freshwater wetlands and a secondary rainforest, the park is a haven for biodiversity and a great place for visitors to enjoy the best of nature. Hiking trails within the park and a chance to walk barefoot during sunset on lovely carpet grass allows nature lovers to discover an array of flora and fauna and experience nature in all its glory. From Tampines Mrt to Pasir Ris mangroves, rivers and parks, our nature lover TLC members will have a chance to enjoy the peace and serenity of the Eco Green Park with its un-spoilt marshlands, flora, fauna as well as listening to the chirping sounds of the beautiful birds that make this untouched natural park their home. Our evening stroll also brings us through the scenic rivers and mangroves along Sungei Tampines and the mangroves where you'll get to see ***herons, egrets, kingfishers etc.*** hunting for fishes along the riverbank. You'll also see the **2 rare cotton trees** where you'll have the chance to collect and bring home the cotton to fill your pillows if you like. :) Thereafter let's enjoy the breeze and sunset at Pasir Ris Beach where we may get to catch a glimpse of the elusive owl before .... prepare for this huh ... heading to the **Spooky Haunted Tower** and mangroves for our fireflies tour (subject to weather conditions). End point is at **Pasir Ris Hawker Centre** to have our dinner/ drinks with our new-found friends. This Food Court is near Pasir Ris MRT Station/ White Sands Mall. *Note: Fireflies sightings not guaranteed as it depends on weather and other ideal conditions. High chances after a heavy thunderstorm.* *** **Event Details:** Preferred Group Size: **24 pax** (3 Groups of 8 each excluding Event Hosts/ Volunteer Leaders) You must provide us your **Hp. No (only visible to us) when you RSVP** for us to send you the Event meeting details, assignment to groups. Those RSVP without Mobile Nos shall be removed from the Going List. **Note:** As slots are limited, this Event is for **TLC members** only. (You may wish to fwd this Event link to your friends and invite them to RSVP themselves to join you for this lovely nature walk) Since slots are limited, **PRIORITY** will be given to those members who are joining any of our upcoming overseas trips to meet their fellow travellers, or willing to volunteer as Group Leaders and those who are also our TLC Facebook members joining us for the first time. Pls go to this link to join our TLC FaceBook Group - **TLC ADVENTURES & GETAWAYS** \- https://www\.facebook\.com/groups/travel\.leisure\.care/ **SG HIKING & TRAVEL GROUP** \- https://www\.facebook\.com/groups/917998886399694 Drop us a WhatsApp - **David Hp: 9745 1777** once you've joined and click **'Like'** on our TLC FaceBook for us to assign you to a group. The Organizer reserve the right to move your Name to the Waitlist once the Event is Full if the above is not met. **Event I/C:** **David Lim - 9745 1777** *** **What to bring?** 1. Water bottle, Sun-block, sun-screen lotion, sun-hat, sun-glasses, caps, umbrellas, arm-sleeves etc 2. Torchlights, Cameras, Handphone, binoculars for bird-watching 3. Wear comfortable walking shoes. No high-heels please! 4. Wear dri-fit T-shirts, bring small towels, tissues etc (optional) This scenic nature tour is organized by **TLC Adventure Tours Pte Ltd** (TA License: 02896)

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)

**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)

**FULLY BOOKED!** Hi members, yes nature is thriving! So let's revisit some of those green places that we've not done for quite awhile. **Tampines Eco Green** is a beautiful hidden eco-friendly park that offers a sanctuary for flora and fauna and a place for nature recreation. It's a paradise for birds to build their nests and you'll get to see the butterflies, dragonflies as well as squirrels roaming around freely in this natural park. With various natural habitats such as open grasslands, freshwater wetlands and a secondary rainforest, the park is a haven for biodiversity and a great place for visitors to enjoy the best of nature. Hiking trails within the park and a chance to walk barefoot during sunset on lovely carpet grass allows nature lovers to discover an array of flora and fauna and experience nature in all its glory. From Tampines Mrt to Pasir Ris mangroves, rivers and parks, our nature lover TLC members will have a chance to enjoy the peace and serenity of the Eco Green Park with its un-spoilt marshlands, flora, fauna as well as listening to the chirping sounds of the beautiful birds that make this untouched natural park their home. Our evening stroll also brings us through the scenic rivers and mangroves along Sungei Tampines and the mangroves where you'll get to see ***herons, egrets, kingfishers etc.*** hunting for fishes along the riverbank. You'll also see the **2 rare cotton trees** where you'll have the chance to collect and bring home the cotton to fill your pillows if you like. :) Thereafter let's enjoy the breeze and sunset at Pasir Ris Beach where we may get to catch a glimpse of the elusive owl before .... prepare for this huh ... heading to the **Spooky Haunted Tower** and mangroves for our fireflies tour (subject to weather conditions). End point is at **Pasir Ris Hawker Centre** to have our dinner/ drinks with our new-found friends. This Food Court is near Pasir Ris MRT Station/ White Sands Mall. *Note: Fireflies sightings not guaranteed as it depends on weather and other ideal conditions. High chances after a heavy thunderstorm.* \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* **Event Details:** Preferred Group Size: **16 pax** (2 Groups of 8 each excluding Event Hosts/ Volunteer Leaders) You must provide us your **Hp. No (only visible to us) when you RSVP** for us to send you the Event meeting details, assignment to groups. Those RSVP without Mobile Nos shall be removed from the Going List. **Note:** As slots are limited, this Event is for **our SG Hiking & Travel Group members** only. (You may wish to fwd this Event link to your friends and invite them to RSVP themselves to join you for this lovely nature walk) Since slots are limited, **PRIORITY** will be given to those members who are joining any of our upcoming overseas trips to meet their fellow travellers, or willing to volunteer as Group Leaders and those who are also our TLC Facebook members joining us for the first time. Pls go to this link to join our TLC or SG Hiking FaceBook Group - **TLC ADVENTURES & GETAWAYS** \- https://www\.facebook\.com/groups/travel\.leisure\.care/ **SG HIKING & TRAVEL GROUP** * [www.facebook.com/groups/sghikingandtravel/](http://www.facebook.com/groups/sghikingandtravel/) Drop us a WhatsApp - **David Hp: 9745 1777** once you've joined and click **'Like'** on our TLC FaceBook for us to assign you to a group. The Organizer reserve the right to move your Name to the Waitlist once the Event is Full or if the above is not met. **Event I/C:** **David Lim - 9745 1777** \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* **What to bring?** 1. Water bottle, Sun-block, sun-screen lotion, sun-hat, sun-glasses, caps, umbrellas, arm-sleeves etc 2. Torchlights, Cameras, Handphone, binoculars for bird-watching 3. Wear comfortable walking shoes. No high-heels please! 4. Wear dri-fit T-shirts, bring small towels, tissues etc (optional) This scenic nature tour is organized by **TLC Adventure Tours Pte Ltd** (TA License: 02896)

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)

🌿 Treetop Walk Adventure @ MacRitchie 🌿 Looking for a refreshing escape into nature without leaving Singapore? Join us for a scenic hike through the lush greenery of MacRitchie Treetop Walk — one of the most iconic forest trails in Singapore! 📅 Date: 26 April 2026, Sunday
🕘 Time: 3:00PM - 5:00PM
📍 Meeting Point: TE7 Bright Hill MRT (Passenger Service/Control Station) 🕙 Meeting Time: 2:50PM 📍 Ending Point: TE8 Upper Thomson MRT ✨ What to expect: We’ll take a leisurely-to-moderate hike through the reservoir park, surrounded by rich rainforest and peaceful nature sounds. The highlight of our journey is the famous suspension bridge at the Treetop Walk, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views from above the forest canopy 🌳 🎒 What to bring: • Water 💧 • Comfortable walking shoes 👟 • Umbrella ☔️ • Insect repellent 🦟 • Light snacks 🍫 Whether you’re looking to stay active, meet new people, or simply unwind in nature, this is a perfect weekend adventure. See you on the trail! 🌞

eXplorerSG 2026 / 2604 Walk-Talk-eAT eVent ~~>13km +Elevation 163.63m 🐒 Nature Trails 🌬 Fresh Air 🌞 HOT Sun 🎢 Undulating Terrain 🪖 Good Workout with Steps Climbing 🌱 Walk Details 👟 Date: 26 Apr 2026, Sun Reporting Time: 130pm (Briefing) Start Walking @ 147pm 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 25 Apr 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 by 6am on event day. - - We will start walking punctually @ 147pm and not wait for latecomers. Please be considerate to arrive at the meeting point by 130pm for Briefing. 🤜🏽🤛🏻 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...🎟🥾👟

🌿 Scenic Walk & Chill Meetup 🌿 Join us for a laid-back scenic walk from Gardens by the Bay to Lavender MRT, where we’ll soak in Singapore’s beautiful skyline, waterfront views, and refreshing outdoor vibes. This easygoing walk is perfect for anyone who enjoys light exercise, city scenery, and meeting like-minded people who love exploring Singapore on foot. After the walk, we’ll head for a relaxed dinner—great for unwinding, chatting, and making new connections. 📅 Event Details Sunday, 26 April 2026 ⏰ Meet-up Time: 3:15 PM 🚶 Walk Duration: 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM 📍 Meeting Point: Bayfront MRT 🎒 What to Bring - Comfortable walking shoes 👟 - Water bottle 💧 - Light snacks (optional) 🍎 - Umbrella or cap ☂️🧢 - Sunscreen 🌞 - Small towel or wipes 🧻 - Portable fan (optional) 🌬️ - Good vibes and energy 😄 Come along for a refreshing outing filled with fresh air, scenic views, and great company. Disclaimer: This is a casual community activity. Participants join at their own risk and should ensure they are comfortable with light walking. Please arrive on time, as the walk will begin promptly. Breakfast is optional and at your own expense.

**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!

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)

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.