Outdoor Fitness

**💶 4 Euro Gebühr (vor Ort in bar, Paypal geht auch)** . **🛑 Bitte bis zum Vorabend absagen oder kurze Nachricht schreiben bei kurzfristiger Absage. Spätere Absagen werte ich als No-Show.** **Danke 🙏** . **🥾 Eine wunderschöne Wanderung durchs Briesetal. Große Picknick-Pause am Forsthaus Wennsickendorf.** . **🌳 Beschreibung** * Schöne kleine Wanderung von der S-Bahn-Station Borgsdorf zum [Forsthaus Wensickendorf](https://altesforsthauswensickendorf.hpage.com/startseite.html) und zurück (16km). * Wie laufen entland der Briese und sehen zahlreiche Bieberbauten. * Für viele ein gewohnter Weg - gut zum Entspannen & Natur genießen * **Mein Vorschlag: Wir machen zwei Mal eine halbe Stunde "Silent Walk", um im Wald etwas runterzukommen.** . **🧭 Die Strecke:** Hier findest Du [die Strecke auf Komoot.](https://www.komoot.com/de-de/tour/1338175432) **🥾🌲🌳 Telegram-Gruppe für Wanderungen:** [https://t.me/+VRNLJOrG7OwxZWIy](https://t.me/+VRNLJOrG7OwxZWIy) . **💧 Empfehlungen:** * Bring genug **Wasser (1,5 Liter)** und **Essen** mit * Regensachen (vorsichtshalber) * Feste Schuhe * Kleide Dich nach dem Zwiebelprinzip: Während des Wanderns dünn, für die Pause etwas Warmes zum Überziehen. * Vorsichtshalber: Mückenspray, Sonnencreme . **Rechtlicher Hinweis:** Bitte denke daran, dass Du für Dich selbst verantwortlich bist. Ich biete lediglich einen Treffpunkt an, an dem Du Gleichgesinnte treffen kannst und gemeinsam eine vorgeschlagene Route laufen kannst. Ich übernehme keine Haftung für Deine Ausrüstung, Deine Sachen oder Dich. . Ich schlage vor, dass wir wie normale Bekannte füreinander da sind. Schließlich sind wir gemeinsam unterwegs, um eine schöne Zeit zu haben - und das werden wir auch :) . **💫 Let's have a good time** Für mich sind Ausflüge viel frische Luft, Natur & gute Unterhaltung. Abends kommen wir erholt mit roten Wangen nach Hause - und freuen uns über einen schönen Ausflug mit alten & neuen Bekannten 🌞. **👋🏽 Get in touch & stay in touch:** **🥾🌲🌳 Telegram-Gruppe für Wanderungen:** [https://t.me/+VRNLJOrG7OwxZWIy](https://t.me/+VRNLJOrG7OwxZWIy) **✈ Telegram-Kanal Freundschaft: [t.me/abenteuer_freundschaft](http://t.me/abenteuer_freundschaft)** für Events, Workshops & Neuste Erkenntnisse aus der Freundschaftsforschung (Überschriften) **✉ Freundschafts-Newsletter:** [https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/newsletter](https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/newsletter) Alle 4 Wochen das Neuste aus der Freundschaftsforschung & Aktuellen Termine des Monats. **🔥 6 Zutaten großartiger Freundschaften** "Die 6 Zutaten großartiger Freundschaften" beschreibt, was eine gute Freundschaft wirklich ausmacht. Du erhältst das eBook mit der Anmeldung zum Newsletter: [https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/newsletter](https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/newsletter)

Join us for chill **outdoor** beach volley! 🏐 ☀️ 🏖️ 🍻 This event is for everyone who enjoys chill games and is not a *complete* beginner (A1.5+). We play 3v3 (or 4v4) with beach rules. There are no trainers at this event. Register via [the simultaneous event](https://www.meetup.com/berlin-volley/events/) for higher-level 2v2 matches (F1+). After playing, you can join us for socials with drinks and snacks at the bar area. We often play a social deduction game, which you're also welcome to join. It's recommended that you come 10 minutes early so you have time to change and find the fields. If it is your first time, 15 minutes might be even better. You can join whatever court you like and move between courts during the event. We self-organize, so once you finish a game, you can start a rematch, mix with another court, or take a break as you see fit. Upon arrival, join the warmup happening on one of the courts. Join our WhatsApp community via [https://volley.berlin/WhatsApp](https://volley.berlin/WhatsApp) ([QR code](https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/f/d/5/highres_532249109.webp)) Follow us on Insta at [https://www.instagram.com/berlinvolleyball](https://www.instagram.com/berlinvolleyball) **Rules**: Do not join if you have an infectious disease. For everyone's safety, we do not allow kicking the ball during games with beginners. Be respectful of your fellow players. **Venue**: We play at BeachMitte. There are changing rooms, toilets, and hot water showers that cost 1 EUR. There are no lockers. There is a bar that sells drinks and snacks. **Payment**: You pay in advance via Meetup. Payment via PayPal or Urban Sports Club is not possible. **Refunds**: The venue does not provide refunds. Thus, we cannot refund you either, even if the event is canceled due to bad weather. If you know you can't make it in advance, you can try selling your spot to someone else via WhatsApp or the comment section. In the rare cases that we cancel an event due to poor attendance, everyone gets a full refund. Pictures might be taken and shared publicly, such as on Meetup or Instagram. You can opt out by letting the organizer know you do not wish to be photographed. By RSVP'ing to this event, you acknowledge and agree to the following: Participation in this volleyball event is at your own risk. The organizer is not responsible for any injury, loss, or damage sustained during the event, whether caused by negligence or otherwise. You are aware of the inherent risks involved in beach volleyball and voluntarily assume these risks. You agree to hold the organizer harmless from any claims, liabilities, or expenses arising from your participation, including any medical costs. Share anonymous feedback with the organizer via [https://www.admonymous.co/entropy](https://www.admonymous.co/entropy)

On this Sunday we a planning to open a new season of easy hiking with Wade. We are going to discover the south-western corner of Brandenburg - the Schlosspark Wiesenburg. These scenic castle and large park were established in XII century, and are easily accessible by regional express (free with D-ticket). Our meeting is at 10:00 at Berlin-Friedrichstrasse station. At 10:12 we take RE7 (direction Dessau) to Wiesenburg. If you prefer to take train at other stations, you can also join us at Alexanderplatz, HBF, Zoologischergarten, Charlottenburg, Wannsee, or even in Postdam. For lovers of nature, cultural heritage, meeting new people and socializing. Bring your own food and water. The organizer is not responsable for the safety of participants. The meetup is free. while small donations (1-3 eur) to cover meetup subscription costs are appreciated. WhatsApp group: Follow this link to join my WhatsApp group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/CYXZbjfNMl75sSei0biM0r?mode=ems_wa_c

Our host in person will be Friederike from 2026🧡 We meet at Northwest corner of Siegessäule ( previous Cafe Viktoria. )We will run around the Tiergarten for 7kms. After the first round with the "Tiergarten Running Group", and if you still like us 😉 and feel like it, you can join in for a second loop of 6km. The second loop is optional. Running paces around 5:50 or 6:20 depends on the participants. We will start to run exact 9:00 am. Don't be late. If you are late, please follow the route in the picture. Let's start the Sunday right 💪🏃‍♂️🏃‍♀️! Rain 🌧️ or shine ☀️, we run! Cyu all fellow runners there :) Liability: By signing up for this event and participating at this Workout you accept that applicable by law the organizer will not be liable for any damages or injuries arising out of your participation.

**"I swear it's a sport! 🏸"** Let’s meet, play, and have fun! Our motto: **Sweet & Sweat!** ⚠️ **CRITICAL: RSVP & CONFIRMATION** * **First-Timers:** If it's your first time joining us, I will send you a **Direct Message** to confirm your attendance. **Please reply by Friday 1:00 PM**, or your spot will be released to the waiting list. * **Stay Alert:** Check your Meetup messages and comments regularly if you are on the main or waiting list. * **Update RSVP:** Sign out immediately if you can’t make it (even from the waiting list). * **Safety**: By registering, you acknowledge that you are participating at your own risk, and will be considerate for other players safety. *** 💰 **HOW TO JOIN & PAY** **Option 1: PayPal (€12)** 1. Sign up for the event. 2. **When to pay:** You can pay **immediately** upon signup or anytime **until Saturday evening**. 3. Link: [https://paypal.me/berlinhorizon](https://paypal.me/berlinhorizon) (**Use "Friends & Family" only!**) - Indicate your name and the event date please ! * *Note:* If you are on the **Waiting List**, do NOT pay until you are officially moved to the Main List. **Option 2: Cash (€12)** 1. Reply **'Cash'** to the RSVP question when signing up. 2. Pay in cash **on arrival** (Exact change only, please!). **Refund & Cancellation Policy:** * Guaranteed refund if you cancel **before Friday 1:00 PM** (48h notice). * Late cancellations (after Friday 1 PM) will still be required to pay. *** 🕒 **THE SCHEDULE** * **13:00:** Meet inside for introductions and registration. * **13:15:** Official court time starts *(some courts may open at 13:00 depending on availability, so **please be punctual** to maximize playtime!).* * **14:45:** End of play. * 🎁 **Bonus:** Your 10th session is **FREE**! (Paid upfront, then refunded later). *** 📍 **FACILITY & GEAR** **Location:** TiB 1848 e.V, Columbiadamm 111 (Near Tempelhofer Feld). **Equipment:** * *Racket*: Bring your own or rent one for €2. * *Shoes*: Must be **non-marking**, light-soled, and **never worn outside**. (Rental available for €2). * *Amenities*: Showers and lockers available. Sauna access depends on the club’s discretion. **Last but not least:** No worries about level, we play for fun above all! Looking forward to seeing you on the court! :)

**💔 Keine Lust mehr auf Swipen? Triff echte Singles in Berlin.** Zeya wurde von einer Frau gegründet, die die Herausforderungen des modernen Datings kennt. 🤗 Wir bringen organische Verbindungen zurück: Keine Apps, kein erzwungener Smalltalk – nur **6 kuratierte Singles** in einem gemütlichen Berliner Café. ☕️ **[RSVP jetzt!](https://zeya.cc/register)** ✅ **Sicher & Vertraut:** Von Frauen gegründet, legen wir Wert auf eine respektvolle und hochwertige Atmosphäre. ✅ **Experten-Kuratierung:** Wir wählen 6 Personen basierend auf Vibes und Interessen aus – keine Zufallsbegegnungen. ✅ **Bewährter Erfolg:** Stolzes **Web Summit Alpha Startup** \| **92 %** 🙌 erschienen \| **43 %** 🔥 Hangouts gematcht \| **60 %** 💖 wieder teilgenommen \| **16 💬** Hangouts **📋 So funktioniert es / How it works:** 1. **Anmelden (1 Min.):** Fülle das Kuratierungs-Formular aus: [https://zeya.cc/register](https://zeya.cc/register) 2. **Matching:** Wir finden die besten Matches unter den Berliner Singles für dich. 3. **Der Hangout:** Sobald du ein Match hast, erhältst du eine WhatsApp-Einladung zu einem schönen Spot in Berlin. 4. **Kein Risiko:** Nur 🤍 Erstes Mal 9 € \| 💖 Regulär 12 € Teilnahmegebühr \(sichert die Ausgewogenheit und verhindert No\-Shows\)\. Kein Hangout innerhalb von 31 Tagen? **100 % Rückerstattung.** **🥰 Warum Berliner Zeya lieben / Why Berliners love Zeya:** * 🔒 **Privatsphäre zuerst:** Keine öffentlichen Profile. Niemand sieht dich, bis du die Leute persönlich triffst. * ⏳ **Null Aufwand:** Vergiss das endlose "Hey, wie war dein Wochenende?". Wir übernehmen die Arbeit. * ☕ **Organische Vibes:** Keine peinlichen Eisbrecher. Nur 6 gleichgesinnte Leute, die eine gute Zeit haben. * 💌 **Einfaches Follow-up:** Jemand gefällt dir? Sag es uns privat nach dem Event. Bei einem Match vernetzen wir euch! **Bist du bereit für einen Sonntagnachmittag ohne Bildschirm?** **[RSVP jetzt!](https://zeya.cc/register)** #BerlinSingles #ZeyaHangouts #SocialMatchingBerlin #BerlinEvents #SafeDatingBerlin #BerlinSinglesHangouts #SinglesEventsBerlin #WomenFounded #CoffeeDate #NeuinBerlin #Leutekennenlernen #Socialize #DatingAlternative #FreundeFinden

AKRO YOGA Jeden 2. Sonntag: Kurs Jeden 1., 3., und 4. Sonntag: Open Jam 15 bis 18Uhr \*KURS\* Partner-Akrobatik im Offenen Wohnzimmer - Open Level Class Der Kurs richtet sich an alle, die noch nie Partnerakrobatik ausprobiert haben, aber motiviert und interessiert sind. Aber auch für Menschen, die schon Erfahrungen mitbringen, wird etwas dabei sein. Wir praktizieren L-Basing (bei der eine Person auf der Erde liegt und eine andere Person auf den Füßen oder Armen balanciert). Wir werden uns jede Woche mit einem neuen Flow beschäftigen, wobei unser Fokus vor allem auf sauberer Technik und Sicherheit liegt. Du kannst gerne alleine kommen, wir werden im Kurs Partner\*innen zum Ausprobieren der Flows finden. Du brauchst: Bequeme, eng anliegende Kleidung, etwas zu trinken. Matten sind vor Ort. \*OPEN JAM\* Partner-Akrobatik im Offenen Wohnzimmer - Offene Jam Du möchtest deine neu gelernten Flows und Figuren aus der Partnerakrobatik mit anderen Menschen ausprobieren? Dann bist du hier genau richtig. Wir wollen gemeinsam einen Raum schaffen, in dem wir gemeinsam an unseren Flows arbeiten und kreativ experimentieren können. Nach einem gemeinsamen Warm Up wird frei ausprobiert, um am Ende bei einem gemeinsamen Cool Down wieder zusammen zu kommen. Du kannst gerne alleine kommen, es wird genug potentielle Partner\*innen vor Ort geben. Du brauchst: Bequeme, eng anliegende Kleidung, etwas zu trinken. Matten sind vor Ort. \*\*\*\* Anmeldung erforderlich : melde dich bitte an unter [akro@filua.de](mailto:akro@filua.de)

fff- fit frei froh und gesund ebenso durch und mit Lachyoga Wir lachen auch bei Regen!!! Jeden Sonntag auf dem Tempelhofer Feld mit Heidi Janetzky. Lachyoga ist Wellness, Fitness, Resilienz- und Gesundheitstraining zugleich! Deshalb entwickelte der indische Arzt, Dr. Madan Kataria 1995 diese fröhliche spielerische Yoga-Methode: Lachen ohne Grund. Lachend, spielend, tanzend, singend und bewusst tief atmend - auch bei Frost und Schnee - stärkst Du gleichzeitig Deine körperliche und mentale Gesundheit und Fitness sowie Dein Immunsystem! So beugst Du Krankheiten vor. Dafür gibt es auch eine spezielle Übung: das vorbeugende Lachen. Du verbindest Dich lachend mit den anderen Teilnehmer\*innen. Du aktivierst eine Menge Glückshormone. So stärkst Du Deine Resilienz und kannst gelassener, fröhlicher und unbeschwerter in die neue Woche gehen. Und bei Kälte lachst Du Dich warm!!! Wichtig: warme Füße!!! Also entsprechende Schuhe sind wichtig!!! Übrigens: "Lachen ist der Tanz des Atems" sagt ein indisches Sprichwort. Es ist also Atemtherapie pur. Wo kannst du besser Sauerstoff aufnehmen als an frischer Luft? Auf dem Tempelhofer Feld lachen wir seit 2010 bei jedem Wetter, außer bei einer Unwetterwarnung. Lachyoga kennt keine Altersgrenze, im Gegenteil, es hält jung und verbindet "jung und alt" super miteinander!!! Neugierig geworden? Einfach kommen und mitlachen! offene Gruppe: jede/r ist herzlich eingeladen, mitzulachen, ohne Voranmeldung und ohne Vorkenntnisse bitte mitbringen: Lust, was Neues auszuprobieren; was zu trinken, denn Lachen macht durstig. Teilnahme: auf wertschätzender Spendenbasis Teilnehmer\*innen spenden im Durchschnitt 3-10 Euro. von: [Lachsonne](https://www.gratis-in-berlin.de/component/uddeim/?task=new&recip=8199 "::Nachricht an User schreiben") Mehr Infos im Internet: * [https://www.kreativitaet-und-lachen.de](https://www.kreativitaet-und-lachen.de/offene-ly-gruppen.html)

Join us for intermediate and advanced play on **outdoor** 2v2 courts. If you are not yet at the intermediate level (F1+) or want to play 3v3/4v4, sign up via [the simultaneous event](https://www.meetup.com/berlin-volley/events/) instead. We play with beach rules: do not use open hands for the first or last touches, do not touch the net, etc. We overbook slightly to ensure we have enough players and to allow individuals to take breaks. After playing, you can join us for socials with drinks and snacks at the bar area. It's recommended that you come 10 minutes early so you have time to change and find the fields. If it is your first time, 15 minutes might be even better. You can join whatever court you like and move between courts during the event. We self-organize, so once you finish a game, you can start a rematch, mix with another court, or take a break as you see fit. Upon arrival, join the warmup happening on one of the courts. Join our WhatsApp community via [https://volley.berlin/WhatsApp](https://volley.berlin/WhatsApp) ([QR code](https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/f/d/5/highres_532249109.webp)) Follow us on Insta at [https://www.instagram.com/berlinvolleyball](https://www.instagram.com/berlinvolleyball) **Rules**: Do not join if you have an infectious disease. **Venue**: We play at BeachMitte. There are changing rooms, toilets, and hot water showers that cost 1 EUR. There are no lockers. There is a bar that sells drinks and snacks. **Payment**: You pay in advance via Meetup. Payment via PayPal or Urban Sports Club is not possible. **Refunds**: The venue does not provide refunds. Thus, we cannot refund you either, even in cases where the event is canceled due to bad weather. If you know you can't make it in advance, you can try selling your spot to someone else via WhatsApp or the comment section. You get a full refund if the event gets canceled due to poor attendance. Pictures might be taken and shared publicly, such as on Meetup or Instagram. You can opt out by letting the organizer know you do not wish to be photographed. By RSVP'ing to this event, you acknowledge and agree to the following: Participation in this volleyball event is at your own risk. The organizer is not responsible for any injury, loss, or damage sustained during the event, whether caused by negligence or otherwise. You are aware of the inherent risks involved in park volleyball and voluntarily assume these risks. You agree to hold the organizer harmless from any claims, liabilities, or expenses arising from your participation, including any medical costs. Share anonymous feedback with the organizer via [https://www.admonymous.co/entropy](https://www.admonymous.co/entropy)

Finding for something fun, energetic, and just a bit competitive? Join Us for a lot of Flag Football Fun this Sunday at **Tempelhofer Feld!** We’ll be meeting **from 13:00 onwards**, playing on the field right next to the Biergarten... or rather next to where the Biergarten is supposed to be... when it's warmer... now, like my buddy Phil likes to sing, *it's just an empty space* **Attention New Players**: Don’t worry if the sign-ups look “low”. We play **every Sunday** and Friends a.k.a. *Regular Players* always magically appear from beyond this MeetUp, so We’re always at least 11. Expect a wild mix of joy, fun, competition, trickery, music, drinks, laughter, dancing, and an overall a fantastic vibe. ... yellow flags included! To find us easily, paste these coordinates into Google Maps: **52.478936, 13.410279** This Group is for anyOne who wishes to Play **American** **Flag Football**! Bring Your happiest smile… and cleats, they’ll come in veeeeeery handy All skill levels are welcome — whether You’re picking up a Football for the first time or ready to show off Your inner Sam Darnold, JSN or Christian Gonzalez! ‍♂️ And of course... don’t forget to bring some beers/tea/Glühwein (or whatever You fancy... like cake or cookies... now that would be something) for the post-game hangout. The field is about a 10-minute walk from the bus stop **M43 Friedhöfe Columbiadamm**, and roughly a 20-minute walk from **U8 Boddinstr.** Looking forward to seeing **You** on the field — sharing joy, fun, challenges, trick plays and lots of laughter together! *Take what the Defense/Day/Life gives You - Me*

**!If you cannot belay, please contact us on the Telegram group!** Here is our Telegram group (to be protected against bots): https://tinyurl.com/BerlinClimbingMeetup2 **Safety:** **If you cannot belay, please contact us on the Telegram group about this and we will put you in a group with experience people. That way, if you cannot belay you can still come and climb with us. We are not allowed to teach anyone how to belay or refresh someone's belaying skills. If you have not belayed in the last 6 months or more, we recommend you do not attempt it here without taking a formal refresher course first.** Join us for some Sunday afternoon climbing at Magic Mountain. We will spend the afternoon climbing - lead and top rope followed by a meal afterwards. The Plan: 4:00 - 8:00 climbing 8:00+: Potential hangout (sauna from the gym, drinks. local restaurant) depending on the mood of participants Gear: You can rent all the gear you need - shoes, chalk and a harness. Finding the group: We will either be waiting outside on the wooden chairs or hanging around reception (if the weather is bad). If you're new to the group, I'd recommend trying to arrive on time or a bit in advance. Please use the link below to join our Telegram group and send us a message if you have trouble finding us. Note: We are not a "Magic Mountain" official Meetup, the hall has its own meetups, we are an independent group with events in different halls. So don't be confused if some of the reception people don't know about the meetup or tell you it happens on another day. :) In addition, while the event is free you will need to pay the entry to the gym and the rental equipment if you don't have it. (20 to 25 euros) Telegram Group: You can also join our Telegram group using this link: https://tinyurl.com/BerlinClimbingMeetup2 Please PM me if the link stops working again.

**� Meet Columbus Singles Tonight – Hosted Speed Dating on Zoom** This online speed dating format leans into the human side: strong hosting, repeat attendees, and a sense that the event is part of a growing community. Genuine conversations with real locals — all from your living room. Each round is a brief one-on-one Zoom chat with a Columbus local paired by age and personality. A host keeps the pace comfortable. **Pick your age group and sign up:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=refined-journeys-for-local-single-hearts&ar=18-32&face_v=15.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=refined-journeys-for-local-single-hearts&ar=30-46&face_v=15.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=refined-journeys-for-local-single-hearts&ar=40-58&face_v=15.0) **⚠️ Your RSVP doesn't guarantee a place.** Click your age group link below, register, and take the personality quiz to lock in your spot. Limited places. --- 🎯 **Especially useful for:** - Anyone who likes connecting online before meeting face-to-face - First-timers new to speed dating - People re-entering the dating scene after a break 🧭 **How the session runs** 1. **Sign up** – Tap the link for your age range above. 2. **Fill in the matching quiz** – Helps us find your ideal matches for the evening. 3. **Join on Zoom** – Click the link, jump on, and the host handles the rest. 4. **Speed date** – One-on-one rounds with personality-matched Columbus locals. 🗂 **Quick details** - **Format:** Zoom video session – short timed rounds - 🔥 **Location:** Online from home – no need to go anywhere - **Host:** Live host handling rounds and introductions --- ✨ One Zoom call, genuine conversations, real matches. See you there. 🫶 ✨ Lean version: fewer words, same core offer. Concise by design so people can decide quickly. 🤝 **Community angle** - The host keeps the pace clear and the room welcoming - The atmosphere is guided, social, and easy to join - The community matters as much as the session itself That community angle is deliberate: better conversations, more familiar faces, and stronger momentum over time.

**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.

[Old School Groove](https://www.facebook.com/OldSchoolGrooveBand/) \- Vintage rock\, southern rock\, blues\, reggae\. Originals mixed with 60s & 70s classics\. Getcha groove on\! **[Flint Station](https://www.theflintstation.com/)** is an old depot venue for drinks and live music. They usually have a **bbq food truck** on location. Feel free to bring your own takeout. I'll bring a basket of snacks. NO COVER *They're planning for a beautiful summer evening performance in the beer garden. However, if the weather doesn't cooperate...they will be upstairs in the old-time dance hall. Either way...it's going to be a night to remember!!* **PARKING**: either near the beer garden or across the street.

Let’s walk the gardens and enjoy what has spring has on display.