Outdoor Adventures

eXplorerSG 2026 / 1405 Walk-Talk-eAT Event \~ Singapore Quarry / Dairy Farm Upper Loop / Devil's Steps / Jungle Fall Path / Cave Path / Bt Timah Summit / Dairy Farm Lower Loop 🐒 Nature Trails 🌬 Fresh Air 🌞 Morning Sun 🎢 Undulating Terrain 🪖 Good Workout with Steps Climbing #heArT-pumping 💓 #sweATbreaking ! ❤‍🔥 🌱 Walk Details 👟 Date: 14 May 2026, Thu Reporting Time: 730am (Briefing) Start Walking @ 747am / No waiting for latecomers Meeting point: ⛰️ Hillview MRT / EXIT A \*Meet on Street Level, Station Entrance End point ♻️ Hillview MRT / Food @ Rail Mall Estimated 4hr Distance >12k Elevation \ ~Summit 163.63m / Devil's Steps 184 steps estimated \*moderate difficulty ? ⛑️ [Disclaimer for all eXplorerSG 2025 events By participating in the event, you acknowledge that it involves inherent risks, including but not limited to falls, injuries, and exposure to the elements. You are solely responsible for your own safety and well-being Items to bring Sports attire with sports/hiking shoes Raincoat/Umbrella Hat/Cap (Important!) Sunscreen Mosquito repellent Water (recommended 1 litre) Walking Stick (recommended for better support!) Additional Notes Please update your RSVP by 13 May 2026, 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 BEFORE 6am on Event Day. 🤜🏽🤛🏻 We can only get better and form our new Walk-Talk-eAT Community together, with your AcTive participation and objecTive feedback. After our eXhilarating eVent... we can share our eXciting eXplorerSG eXperience (XXX) over light refreshments replenishing what we have burnt 🔥 Cyall fellow eXplorerS...🎟🥾👟

Get a full-body workout with a mix of cardio, strength, and endurance exercises. Our expert instructor will provide modifications for all levels in a fun, motivating class. Challenge yourself and have a great time! What:A dynamic session with cardio, strength, and endurance exercises. Who For:All levels—beginners and intermediates welcome! Modifications provided. Why:Push your limits with expert guidance in a fun, supportive environment. Don’t forgot to bring your yoga mat, water, comfortable sport attire, a towel and get ready to enjoy amazing day!

Get a full-body workout with a mix of cardio, strength, and endurance exercises. Our expert instructor will provide modifications for all levels in a fun, motivating class. Challenge yourself and have a great time! What:A dynamic session with cardio, strength, and endurance exercises. Who For:All levels—beginners and intermediates welcome! Modifications provided. Why:Push your limits with expert guidance in a fun, supportive environment. Don’t forgot to bring your yoga mat, water, comfortable sport attire, a towel and get ready to enjoy amazing day!

Group Run! This will be a casual run to cater to all fitness levels. Details as below, Date: 18th March 2026 Time: 7pm Venue: Meet at UOB Plaza, Raffles Place open area POC: Weijie @98627432, Jun Xiong @96912529 Lets build up our fitness together!😁😁

\*\* **Registration** **on** **[Luma](https://luma.com/3tr7g20i)** **is** **required** \*\* A vibrant gathering of technology, creativity, and community awaits! 🌴✨ Join fellow iOS developers and enthusiasts to dive into hands-on sessions, exchange ideas, and explore new ways to craft meaningful app experiences 📱💡. Whether you're refining your skills or discovering fresh inspiration, this is your space to learn, build, and connect with like-minded creators 🤝🌍. Let’s make this summer count. 🗓 **Date & Time**: Wednesday, 13 May 2026 🕒 **Time**: 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM 📍 **Location**: Apple Developer Center, Solaris, 1 Fusionopolis Walk, L5 South Tower, Singapore 138632 🌸 What's blooming this May: * 6:00 PM: 🍕 Food, drinks & mingling with fellow devs * 7:00 PM: 🎤 10-min host intro & community updates * 7:10 PM: **Messy Notes → Action Items: 0 Token Cost, 100% On-Device - Tc Pun** What if your chaotic handwritten meeting notes could instantly become structured action items, summaries, decisions, follow-ups, and tags—with zero cloud dependency? This demo reveals how Apple’s Foundation Models framework does exactly that: raw scribbles go in, clean Swift structs come out. No APIs. No token costs. No messy text parsing. Just SwiftUI + guided generation running entirely on-device. * 7:40 PM: **Building in Public in the AI Era: ASC CLI Journey - Rudrank Riyam** I share about my journey of building ASC CLI, an unofficial App Store Connect command-line tool, in public, and how AI-driven development helped me create, maintain, and grow it faster than I imagined. I will cover my workflows of using cloud agents + automation, the reality of maintaining open-source projects, and how one CLI unexpectedly led to 14 job opportunities, 3 acquisition offers, and the decision to move from 7 years of freelancing into a full-time role in the AI era! 🧑🏻‍💻 **Speakers** **1\. Tc Pun** **2\. Rudrank Riyam** **💖 Special Thanks** A huge thank-you to Apple for their continued support of iOS Dev Scout — and to you, our amazing community, for bringing the passion and curiosity that makes every meetup bloom! Come with fresh energy and your iOS spirit — let's make 2026 a year of growth and innovation! ✨ **Can't wait to see you there!** The iOS Dev Scout Team Hiring for iOS / macOS? Let the organisers know, and we'll give you a short airtime! \*\*\* "Everyone has some things to learn. Everyone has some things to teach."- Paul Hudson. \*\*\* We welcome everyone who wants to share their iOS / macOS learnings with the Singapore community! \*\*\* **iOS Conf SG** iOSConfSG 2026 just ended, let the chefs rest but details are always available at [https://iosconf.sg](https://iosconf.sg/)! Follow us on Twitter at [@iOSDevScout](https://twitter.com/iosdevscout) and [@iOSConfSG](https://twitter.com/iOSConfSG) for the latest updates: * LinkedIn: [https://www.linkedin.com/company/iosconfsg](https://www.linkedin.com/company/iosconfsg) * Facebook: [iOSConfSG](https://www.facebook.com/iosconfsg/) * YouTube: [@iOSConfSG](https://www.youtube.com/@iOSConfSG) * Instagram: [@iOSConfSG](https://www.instagram.com/iosconfsg/) * Discord: [https://discord.gg/xqbGpcjra7](https://discord.gg/xqbGpcjra7) \*\*\*

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)

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)

Soak in the golden-hour glow from CapitaSpring’s Sky Garden as the city transits from sunset to starlight. 🌆🏙 Afterward, we’ll head to Lau Pa Sat for dinner beneath its historic arches. It’ll be a relaxed evening of panoramic views, great food and nice company! **This is a limited tickets event. 🎟 🎫 Kindly only confirm if you are sure that you can make it, as last min drop-out deprive others a real chance to join. 😊** To protect your privacy, we do not collect telephone numbers 📵. Communication will be through the Event chat. Kindly check for any updates, especially on the day of the event, 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. 🚶🚶‍♂️ 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. 🙏 Photo credit: Mothership

🌿 🇲🇾 Looking for a quick escape from the city grind? Hop in for a cross-border adventure where we’ll ride into a quiet enclave lined with green boulevards and photo-worthy architecture. After soaking in the peaceful vibes, we’ll take a leisurely walk through open spaces and calming landscapes, discovering charming little pockets along the way. We'll have lunch and dinner over at JB. Transport will be arranged through Grab, coordinated by our member volunteers. Just bring your passport, comfy shoes, and a happy spirit ready to explore! Confirmed participants will be added to our exclusive WhatsApp group for real-time updates 📲. If you’re adaptable, ready to explore, and value a fun group dynamic, this trip is for you! 🌟 1. Kindly only confirm if you are sure that you can make it, as last min drop-out deprive others a real chance to join. 😊 2. We don't charge anything for this trip. You pay for your own food and shared transport. 😀 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. 🙏

Meet: Pasir Ris (EW1) MRT Station Passenger Service Centre When: Thursday 14th May, 5 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. We will walk the Pasir Ris Park and head towards Lorong Halus. We will explore the **Lorong Halus Wetland**, a picturesque area that promises to whisk you out of Singapore, with ponds surrounded by tall reeds and white rocky fields, a hidden dirt track, and a bridge where you can get a perfect view of the sunset. Then we head across the iconic Lorong Halus Red Bridge, which straddles the Sungei Serangoon river. From there, we shall head to a high vantage point to capture the wonderful sunset view of the Halus Bridge. Join in the walk, and enjoy the wonderful views of Singapore and the nature surrounding you. We shall have dinner at Punggol. See you there! :-) What to bring: \- Shades \- umbrellas \- Water \- Good walking shoes \- Long pants preferred \- Mosquito Repellent \- Portable fan 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 try to be punctual. There will be 5 minutes grace for attendance taking. Please remember that we cannot wait because this would be unfair to those already present. 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.***

### **Mount Lambak (510m) – Trans Butterfly Trail** **📍 Kluang, Johor** **⛰ Elevation Gain: ±1,200m** **📏 Distance: ±10km** **🔥 Difficulty Level: 4/5** **\*\*NOT SUITABLE FOR BEGINNERS\*\*** **Proposed Itinerary** **0600 hrs -** Pick up Marsiling MRT and depart to customs. **0830 hrs –** Arrival at trail head & Assembly * Meet at Gunung Lambak Parking Area * Introduction to guide * Safety briefing & stretching session **0830 hrs –** Start of Hike **0915 hrs –** Shrine Area (Mid-Point) * Regroup * Group photo **0930 hrs –** Continue via Extreme Route **1045 hrs –** Peak 1 (Tower) * Rest stop * Photo opportunity **1130 hrs –** Big Tree / Microwave Junction **1215 hrsi –** Microwave Station **1315 hrs –** Big Tree & River Area * Rest / recovery **1430 hrs –** Return to Big Tree / Microwave Junction **1500 hrs –** Peak 1 (Tower) **1600 hrs –** Peak 2 (Southern Peak) **1700 hrs –** Descent to Foothill / End of Trek/Quick Shower / Change of clothes **1745 hrs -** Depart for group dinner **2000 hrs -** Arrive at restaurant **2100 hrs -** Depart for Singapore drop point at Marsiling. **2230 hrs -** Arrival at Marsiling/End of trip ***Note: Timing may vary depending on participants’ fitness level, weather conditions, and overall group pace. This itinerary serves as a guideline.*** ## **Recommended Packing List** * Minimum 2.5L drinking water * Energy / isotonic drinks * Personal first aid kit * Rain cover / windbreaker * Hiking or trail shoes * Light snacks (bread, fruits, energy bars, dates) * Mobile phone * Whistle & gloves * Water filter /Water Purification tablet (optional but recommended) ## **Inclusions:** * Certified Mountain Guide (MGP) * Entry permit * Basic first aid support * Management & coordination fees * Radio communication * Insurance coverage * Guide ratio 7:1 * Group Dinner * Singapore Local Leader **Exclusions:** * All other meals not indicated * Any expenses of a personal nature * Travel Insurance **PRICE PER PAX: SGD130** If you need more information for this event, please feel free to contact our host, Gary [https://wa.me/93279220](https://wa.me/93279220) **REGISTRATION AND PAYMENT DETAILS:** Step 1- via ADVENTURES UNLIMITED • Bank Name: DBS Ltd • SWIFT/BIC: DBSSSGSGDBS • Account Number: 0039351950 (DBS Current Account) • PAYNOW – 201600903H Step 2- WhatsApp proof of payment receipt to Gary [https://wa.me/93279220](https://wa.me/93279220) with your full name to verify payment. Step 3: Receipt of payment will be issued, and you will be added to a WhatsApp chat. \*Please note that the itinerary and end time may be subject to change depending on traffic, weather, customs clearance and group fitness level. \*Participants must arrive at least 10 minutes before the designated time at the meetup location. Punctuality ensures a smooth start and allows for any necessary preparations before embarking on the planned activities. \*Getting on the ‘Going’ list does not guarantee a spot. \*When you paid up for this event, it is understood that you have read, agreed, and accepted our terms and conditions. [https://www.liveopenly.net/terms-and-conditions/terms-and-conditions](https://www.liveopenly.net/terms-and-conditions/terms-and-conditions) This event is organized by Adventures Unlimited (TA02844), a licensed travel agent registered with the Singapore Tourism Board.

**Training Program-Focusing on stamina, mental resilience, and consistent pacing with no long breaks unless regrouping!** 🗓 Date: 15th May 2026(Fri) ⏰ Time: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM 📍Meetup: Woodlands MRT( Near Control Station) North South Line - RED NOT SUITABLE FOR BEGINNER 🚶‍♂️Activity: Endurance Walk 📍Route: Woodlands MRT→ Ulu Sembawang PCN → T15 → Dairy Farm Loop→Hillview MRT → 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.

**\*If interested, please whatsapp** [wa.me/+6588842635](wa.me/+6588842635) **or contact +65 8884 2635! Sign-ups *are only confirmed after contacting us and joining the WA group!\**** As we don't just wish to do Belumut, or just do Belumut + Gua Rimau, we are going to attempt to do the full CBR loop or also known as **Gunung Chemendong (846m)-Belumut(1,010m)-Rimau(889m) Loop.** Gunung Chemendong (846m) and Belumut (1,010m) is already an excellent (some say challenging) day-hike near Kluang, which is around 2 hours from Singapore. It is often used as a training hike to keep up in fitness, or as preparation for other hikes as it gives you experience and preparation for other tougher hike in Malaysia, like Ophir, other G7 mountains in Malaysia, or Kinabalu. Due to its location, makes it a solid day hike, still have a good dinner and be back in SG in 1 day. It is located in the Hutan Lipur Gunung Lumut (Mount Belumut Recreational Forest). We'll start with Chemendong first, crossing to the waterfall before heading to Belumut Peak, then the Rimau extension before turning back to the Belumut entrance so that it becomes a full loop (on GPS) and also be able to shower. We'll try to start as early as possible. Do note that this is an intense hike because you will do it with little/no sleep after Friday night. So do be mentally and physically prepared for it! You are also expected to get wet due to chance of rain, or crossing the streams! **Who is this for?** **=> People who wish to/can challenge themselves (I would say to the point of torture)** => People who have done full day hikes (e.g. Ophir) and wish to challenge themselves further => Wish to hike more than 12h and deal with different terrains such as crossing streams, going steep uphills, and then down, and then up again to test their mental fortitude => Training for tough hikes (high altitude hikes etc) => Generally suited for more experienced hikers who know they can last at least 12h hiking => Test yourself hiking with little/no sleep Do note that we will start and might descend when dark, so please bring headlights and we expect some level of fitness or hiking experience for the group! ***Hike Details*** ***The total distance is \~25km and total elevation gain is \~2000m+.The hike is around 12-16h in total, depending on your speed.*** This is almost 2x as long as Ophir Asahan hike. It can and will be extremely tiring on your mind, body and legs. It is generally tropical forest trail, with some rope portions, ladders, streams, waterpipes, waterfall, branches, insects (you name it you get it?). Do note that there will be lots of ups and downs so be mentally prepared for it. This is good for people who have some level of fitness and hiking experience. As this can be quite a challenging route, the group pace will be quite fast and we'll push at a certain speed. **There is also a cut-off timings which we'll enforce more strictly. If you fail to make it you will have to turn back unfortunately, as the distance is long. We aim to all be back down by 8pm.** **How many pax for the trip to happen?** Minimum **12 pax** to start the trip! A Whatsapp group will be set up and information sent through there. **Estimated Itinerary: (Saturday)** \~12.30 am : Meet @ Marsiling MRT 4.00 am: Breakfast 5.30 am: Reach Belumut Trailhead, start hike to Chemendong 10.00 am: Chemendong Peak (846m) 12.00 pm: Lata Tangga waterfall 2:30 pm: Belumut Summit (1,010m) 4:00 pm: Reach Rimau, descent to Trailhead 5:00 pm: Reach back Belumut Summit 7.00pm: Reach back trailhead, wash up and exit. 8.30 pm : Dinner (cost not included). Head back to SG 11.30 pm++ : Reach back SG ***Itinerary is subject to changes based on conditions and group speed and trek leader's discretion*** **Price: 175 SGD** Price includes: 2-ways Transport All associated Park Permits/ Fees LMT Trek Leader Local Hiking Guides Price excludes: All Personal expenses/Meals Visa Application (if any) This event is organized by LITTLE MONSTERS TRAVEL PTE LTD Travel Agent Licence No: 03117 Contact : +65 88842635 Email: [info@littlemonsterstravel.net](http://info@littlemonsterstravel.net/)

**[CONFIRMED TRIP]** **Trans Bukit Saga 410m + Bukit Apek 427m & 2 Waterfall Leisure Hikes** **Date: 15-16 May 2026(Fri–Sat)** ⚠️ Secure your spot early! 🌄 Perfect weekend getaway for hiking & waterfall lovers! 💨 Enjoy fresh air, greenery, and a rewarding nature escape from the city! **📲 INTERESTED? WhatsApp 94884478 (Wilfred) or RSVP:** **[https://www.meetup.com/lets-go-travelling-hiking/events/314192911/](https://www.meetup.com/lets-go-travelling-hiking/events/314192911/)** **EVENT HIGHLIGHTS** ✨ Both Bukit Apek and Bukit Saga are popular hiking spots in Ampang, connected by scenic jungle trails and waterfalls along the route. 🌿 Bukit Saga Trail • Mix of steep climbs and relaxing forest walks • Suitable for beginners & experienced hikers • Summit facilities: swings, hammocks & rest areas • Great panoramic KL skyline views (sunrise/sunset) 🌿 Bukit Apek Trail • Lush jungle adventure trail • Refreshing waterfall experience • Scenic viewpoints overlooking the city • Perfect for nature lovers & adventure seekers **📍 HIKE DETAILS** • Bukit Saga: 410m / 1,349 ft • Bukit Apek: 427m / 1,401 ft • Elevation Gain: \~859m +/- • Distance: \~10 km (loop/return) • Duration: 6–9 hours • Difficulty Level: 5/10 **💰 EVENT DETAILS** \* $140 / person • $130 / person (3 pax & above) **💳 PAYMENT** PayNow to UEN: 201727764C (Wilfred Go Travelling & Hiking Pte Ltd) OR Bank Transfer: DBS Current Account: 0029069789 📩 After payment, WhatsApp 94884478 with screenshot receipt TA License No: 03066 TA Name: WILFRED GO TRAVELLING & HIKING PTE LTD **To Connect With Us:** 1\. Telegram Channel: [https://t.me/wilfredtravelsg](https://t.me/wilfredtravelsg) 2\. Whatapps Channel: [https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaJmIsU9mrGTPqpect3l](https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaJmIsU9mrGTPqpect3l) 3\. Facebook: [https://www.facebook.com/events/calendar](https://www.facebook.com/events/calendar) **INCLUDE:** \* Transportation Van < 14 person Bus >15 person \* Group Lunch is included if groupsize 10 or more \* Mountain Guide/s \* Hiking Permit \* 1 Event Host **EXCLUDE:** \* Personal Insurance \* Items Not Mentioned In Itinerary **Suggested Itinerary:** **(Friday Night)** 1130pm- Marsiling MRT Bus Stop 1135pm -Depart to Custom **(Saturday), (D)** (Friday Night) 1130pm- Marsiling MRT Bus Stop Saturday 12pm-Depart JB Custom 330am- R&R breakfast & packed lunch 6am Briefing and commence Hike 1pm-Back to Carpark and wash-up 230pm- Depart 4pm-Seremban Town Shopping + Relax 530pm-Dinner 630pm-Depart 10pm-JB Custom 10pm-Marsiling MRT **Disclaimer, Indemnity and Terms of Participation:** The participant acknowledges that this is an adventure trip. The itinerary serves as a guide only and changes may be required. All participants are strongly advised to have travel insurance. The participant agrees to assume all risks and indemnifies the organizers against all claims, disputes.

**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.

Join us this Thursday (5/14) at 6:30 pm at Rocky Fork Metro Park in Westerville as we walk about 2.5 miles of a fully paved trail. The Beech Woodland trail is a flat yet scenic trail with a variety of landscapes. Let’s take it in together!

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 .

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

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)