Outdoors

Celebrate Christmas Eve with a scenic cycling loop around Melbourne. The Capital City trail completes a circuit around Melbourne joining up several bike paths such as the Merri Creek Trail, Main Yarra Trail, Moonee Ponds Creek Trail and Inner Circle Rail Trail. We'll be riding over the new Gipps Street bridge into the Abbotsford convent where we can take a quick coffee stop. We'll aim for a steady average pace of around 15km/h varying the pace depending on the terrain. We'll go anticlockwise and reach the Boat Builders Yard for an early lunch around 12pm. After lunch we'll cruise back riding a leisurely 6km back to the start. The trail is mainly tarmac. Hybrid bikes, gravel bikes, road bikes and mountain bikes. **Pump up your tyres and check your bike the night before!** **What to bring** * Suitable Bike (MTB, Gravel bike, Hybrid bike, Road bike) * **Bike lock** \- we may need to lock up bikes for lunch * Helmet * Bike gloves * Spares/tubes/repair kits * Water (bottle or backpack) * Snacks/food * Sun screen/Sun glasses/Protective eye wear **MEETING POINT** Meet at the carpark at 500 Tourist Drive 2, Burnley VIC 3121. This is a short ride from Burnley station. There's a 2nd carpark a short distance down the road if this carpark is full. https://maps.app.goo.gl/hvRcCTtQB1HRMAST9 **LIABILITY WAVER** The organiser of this group cannot accept any liability for any loss, damage, injury or accidents to participants or their property on this event. By participating in this event, you're taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. By joining this event you agree to these terms.

**About the Session - Morning Softness.** *A gentle Christmas Eve meditation to help you begin the day slowly, kindly, and supported.* Before the energy of Christmas Eve begins to build, take an hour to land softly in your body. This session is especially supportive if you’re spending the day quietly, feeling tender, overwhelmed, or simply wanting a moment of calm at the start of a full season. We’ll be lying on the grass beneath the morning sky, letting stillness, breath, and nature unwind the body. **This session is designed to help you:** • Arrive in your body with softness and presence. • Let the intensity of the season settle and loosen. • Calm and balance your nervous system. • Feel grounded, held, and supported. • Begin Christmas Eve from a place of steadiness and inner warmth. **The Meditation session:** **We’ll begin with Yoga Nidra,** a guided deep rest practice where you simply lie down and allow your body to soften. There is nothing to perform or achieve. Once you’re comfortable, staying as still as possible helps the nervous system drop into deeper rest. I will guide your awareness slowly through the body so your mind can drift, unwind, and settle. **From there, we move into a gentle visual meditation themed around the softness of a summer morning.** This journey uses warm light, dissolving heat, and soothing imagery to help you release stress, calm emotional noise, and feel quietly held by the morning air. The practice is deeply restorative, and designed for anyone who needs a gentle place to land. **No experience is needed,** this is beginner-friendly, and completely guided from start to finish. **“Sometimes the most important thing in a whole day is the rest we take between two deep breaths.”** - *Etty Hillesum, writer and diarist.* **When & Where:** 🗓 **Christmas Eve - Tuesday 24 December** ⏰ **10:00am - 11:00am** 📍 **Edinburgh Gardens, Fitzroy North** We’ll set up on the grass behind the Rotunda - look for my yoga mat and a Large pink sign that says “Free Guided Meditation.” **Weather notes.** This is an outdoor session. If the weather turns rainy, I’ll update the event listing beforehand - please check the meetup event before to make sure it's still going ahead. Summer mornings are usually nice, but Melbourne likes to surprise us. **What to bring:** • Yoga mat or something to lie on. • Light blanket. • Eye covering or small pillow if you enjoy extra comfort. • Water. • Comfortable clothing. \- If you forget a mat\, I’ll have a few spares on hand\. 😊 **Arriving and running late.** Arriving a few minutes early helps you settle in, get comfortable, and ease into the space before we begin. However if you’re running late, please come anyway 😊 - just join quietly, you won’t disturb anything. **Everyone is Welcome.** Whether you’re spending Christmas Eve alone, with family, feeling reflective, or simply wanting a quiet moment, this space is for you. A warm, gentle morning to rest, breathe, and begin the day softly. **I look forward to sharing the morning with you 🌿✨😊** **Kathy.**

**Please note:** This event has been posted on multiple Meetup groups. \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* **How to find us:** Let's meet beneath the landmark clocks at the entrance of Flinders Street Station — i.e. I'll "meet you under the clocks"! **Meetup Time:** 6.30 pm. We will wait about 15 minutes until everyone has arrived. \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* **Details:** Let's enjoy the wonderful light and sound shows, and immerse ourselves in the joyful festive atmosphere that the city warmly welcomes during Christmas! We'll take a leisurely walk to explore some of the main spots with Christmas Lights around Melbourne CBD, adding to the fun and holiday spirit! This will include: * Christmas Square @ Federation Square * Christmas Decorations @ City Square & Melbourne Town Hall * Myer Christmas Windows @ Bourke Street Mall Later on, as it gets dark, we can try and check out some of the following light projections (time pending): * Crown Christmas River Show @ Birrarung-Yarra River Promenade outside Crown Casino * Chapter House Projections @ facades of the St Paul's Cathedral * Flinders Street Station Projections * Melbourne Town Hall Projections After the walk, we'll head back to Federation Square to enjoy some drinks and food together. It'll be a lovely way to unwind and catch up! \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* If you have any questions, feel free to drop a message in the Comments section. I look forward to seeing everyone there! \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* **For more information:** [https://whatson.melbourne.vic.gov.au/things-to-do/christmas](https://whatson.melbourne.vic.gov.au/things-to-do/christmas) [https://whatson.melbourne.vic.gov.au/things-to-do/christmas/decorations](https://whatson.melbourne.vic.gov.au/things-to-do/christmas/decorations) [https://whatson.melbourne.vic.gov.au/article/the-ultimate-guide-to-melbournes-best-christmas-lights-and-decorations](https://whatson.melbourne.vic.gov.au/article/the-ultimate-guide-to-melbournes-best-christmas-lights-and-decorations) \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*

Looking to get outside, clear your head, and connect with good people? Join us for a relaxed walk around the beautiful streets and coastline of Port Melbourne. This is a casual meetup—no fitness goals, no pressure. Just a friendly stroll, good conversation, and a reason to step away from screens and into the fresh air. Whether you’re new in town, working from home, or just want a social reason to walk, you’re very welcome. Come as you are. Comfy shoes, water bottle, and curiosity are all you need. **Optional:** After the walk, some of us might grab a coffee nearby — feel free to join if you’re up for it!

**💕 Join Us for an Exciting Online Speed Dating Experience in North Melbourne!** 🎯 **Perfect for:** - First-timers to speed dating - Shy individuals who want to meet someone new - Anyone looking to make meaningful connections **Event Details** - **Format:** Virtual on Zoom - **Location:** Online (from the comfort of your home!) - **Host:** Friendly & welcoming host to guide you through the event - **Pressure-free:** Meet North Melbourne locals in a relaxed, judgment-free environment **Age Groups & Registration** - **Ages 20-36** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://luv2.ybevents.com/event?eventId=318.0&city=North%20Melbourne&groupurlname=swift-chemistry-collective&ar=20-36) - **Ages 30-46** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://luv2.ybevents.com/event?eventId=318.0&city=North%20Melbourne&groupurlname=swift-chemistry-collective&ar=30-46) - **Ages 40-58** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://luv2.ybevents.com/event?eventId=318.0&city=North%20Melbourne&groupurlname=swift-chemistry-collective&ar=40-58) - **Ages 55+** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://luv2.ybevents.com/event?eventId=318.0&city=North%20Melbourne&groupurlname=swift-chemistry-collective&ar=55+) **How It Works** 1. **Register for Your Age Group** - Choose and register for the speed dating session that matches your age range above. 2. **Fill out a Personality Quiz** - Fast and simple! We'll match you with compatible singles. 3. **Speed Dating Rounds** - Quick, fun conversations with potential matches. 4. **Find Your Match** - Connect with someone special from North Melbourne. --- ✨ Don't miss out! Sign up today and find your match! ✨

**💕 Virtual Speed Dating for Introverts – Genuine Connections Without the Noise!** 🎯 **Perfect for:** - Introverts seeking meaningful relationships - People who dread loud, crowded dating venues - Conversation enthusiasts who value quality over quantity - Anyone wanting to find love from their comfort zone **Event Details** - **Format:** Virtual on Zoom – introvert-friendly & intimate - **Location:** Your ideal space – wherever you feel most at ease - **Host:** Friendly & understanding host who gets the introvert experience - **Pressure-free:** Quality conversations with compatible East Melbourne singles in a relaxed environment **Age Groups & Registration** - **Ages 20-36** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://luv2.ybevents.com/event?eventId=318.0&city=East%20Melbourne&groupurlname=starlume-single-professionals&ar=20-36) - **Ages 30-46** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://luv2.ybevents.com/event?eventId=318.0&city=East%20Melbourne&groupurlname=starlume-single-professionals&ar=30-46) - **Ages 40-58** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://luv2.ybevents.com/event?eventId=318.0&city=East%20Melbourne&groupurlname=starlume-single-professionals&ar=40-58) - **Ages 55+** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://luv2.ybevents.com/event?eventId=318.0&city=East%20Melbourne&groupurlname=starlume-single-professionals&ar=55+) **How It Works** 1. Select Your Age Range - Register for the session perfect for you. 2. Complete a Quick Compatibility Quiz - Help us find your ideal matches. 3. Enjoy Speed Dating Conversations - Meet compatible singles in 5-minute rounds. 4. Make a Connection - Discover someone special from East Melbourne in a judgment-free zone. --- ✨ Real connections await. Be yourself and find someone who appreciates you. ✨

**💕 Speed Dating Reimagined for Introverts – Quality Over Crowds!** 🎯 **Perfect for:** - Introverts who want to meet someone special - Shy individuals dreading traditional dating scenes - Anyone who prefers genuine conversations over small talk - Those who want meaningful connections from home **Event Details** - **Format:** Zoom-based experience – designed with introverts in mind - **Location:** Anywhere you feel comfortable (home, café, etc.) - **Host:** Friendly & understanding host who gets the introvert experience - **Pressure-free:** Quality conversations with compatible North Melbourne singles in a relaxed environment **Age Groups & Registration** - **Ages 20-36** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://luv2.ybevents.com/event?eventId=318.0&city=North%20Melbourne&groupurlname=starlume-single-professionals&ar=20-36) - **Ages 30-46** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://luv2.ybevents.com/event?eventId=318.0&city=North%20Melbourne&groupurlname=starlume-single-professionals&ar=30-46) - **Ages 40-58** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://luv2.ybevents.com/event?eventId=318.0&city=North%20Melbourne&groupurlname=starlume-single-professionals&ar=40-58) - **Ages 55+** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://luv2.ybevents.com/event?eventId=318.0&city=North%20Melbourne&groupurlname=starlume-single-professionals&ar=55+) **How It Works** 1. Choose Your Age Group - Pick the session tailored to your age range. 2. Take a Brief Personality Assessment - We'll use it to optimize your matches. 3. Participate in Speed Dating Rounds - Engaging one-on-one conversations. 4. Spark a Real Connection - Meet someone amazing from North Melbourne naturally. --- ✨ Real connections await. Be yourself and find someone who appreciates you. ✨

Friendly game of five a side indoor football (soccer). Indoor trainers/boots. No studs. Played on timber floor. Bibs will be supplied. Game Rules: Kick ins from the side. Goal keeper must throw the ball out when the ball goes behind. No slide tackles. After each goal a spot kick is taken and the opposing team must stand behind the white line (you'll understand when you get there). Keeper rotates every 6 minutes. If you need to pull out of the game for any reason, please RSVP no and then message the event so that another can potentially fill your spot. Please note that you should do this at least 48 hours (the sooner the better) before the game to allow the chance for someone to take your spot. If we are unable to fill the spot then I will not be able to refund you. Thank you.

* 🌏 **MELBOURNE → GRAMPIANS**🏙️ + **CHRISTMAS DINNER** * 📅 **THU-FRI 25-26 DEC, 2-DAY TRIP ☀️** * ✨**Nature, Peaks & New Stories**✨ \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🌿 **Grampians Getaway — Nature, Peaks & Stories** 🌄 - **CHRISTMAS** Join us and step into the magic of the **Grampians** — where rugged mountain ranges rise above peaceful valleys, waterfalls tumble into fern-filled gullies, and every lookout whispers a story. Across two unforgettable days, we’ll **hike** scenic forest trails, **kayak** across a tranquil lake, uncover ancient Aboriginal **rock art**, and savour **wine** in a beautiful valley setting. Add Christmas **BBQ**, **1-night** Cosy shared **accommodation**, **Meditation** & grounding and plenty of laughter — and you’ve got a journey stitched with memories \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🎒 **All-Inclusive for $319** ✅ Round-trip transport in a comfortable **Mercedes minivan** 🚐 ✅ Guided **10 km hike** with gear 🥾 ✅ **Kayaking** on a stunning lake (gear provided) 🛶 ✅ Unlimited **snacks, soft drinks, coffee & tea** ☕ ✅ Visit to breathtaking **lookouts & waterfalls** 🌄 ✅ **1-night** Cosy shared **accommodation** ✨ ✅ **Winery visit** 🍷 ✅ Exploration of **Aboriginal rock art** ✅ Christmas **BBQ** ✅ **Meditation** & grounding \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🕒 **2-Day Itinerary Highlights** **Day 1** 🌅 06:30 — Meet at St Paul’s Cathedral, Flinders Street 🍉 07:30 — Refreshment **stop** ☕ 09:30 — Welcome morning **tea & snacks** (included) 🥾 09:45 — Guided 10 km forest+mountain easy **hike** (190m elevation) 🍽️ 13:30 — **Picnic** & lunch (BYO) with tea & snacks (provided, ulimited) 🌄 14:30 — Explore **Venus Baths** & scenic **peaks** 🌊 15:30 — Breathtaking **lookout** visit 🦘 16:30 — Spot native **wildlife** 🚐 17:30 — **Scenic drive** through the ranges 🍝 18:00 — Hotel check-in & relaxation - shared **accommodation** 🏨 20:00 — Christmas **BBQ** - **Group dinner** ✨ 21:00 — **Meditation** under the stars \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Day 2** 🍳 08:00 — Hotel check-out & **breakfast** 🛶 09:30 — **Kayaking** on a beautiful lake (beginner friendly!) 🥪 12:30 — Lunch break + **Picnic** ✨ 13:30 — **Meditation** & grounding 🌅 14:30 — Visit Aboriginal **rock art** sites 🍷 15:30 — **Winery** & **scenic** valley views ☕ 17:30 — Stop for refreshments 🏙️ 19:00 — Return to **Melbourne**, filled with memories 📍 Drop-off: Hamer Hall, Melbourne \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **💰 How to Book?** Secure your spot with a **$319 transfer** **Please note:** An RSVP alone does not secure your spot — only a transfer confirms your place on the trip. Thanks for understanding! 🔹 **PayID:** 0414 661 458 🔹 **Bank Transfer:** **NAME:** KARAPETIAN G **BSB:** 013233 **ACCOUNT:** 226325836 **Ref:** Gra 🌟 **Limited spots available—RSVP now to avoid missing out!** 🎒 S*pots are only confirmed once payment is received !!!* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ❗️**Please Note:** **Payments are only credited or refunded if the event is canceled or rescheduled by the organizer.** In all other circumstances, payments are **non-refundable and non-transferable**. ❗️Thank you for understanding and supporting the planning involved in creating these experiences! 🌿 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **🎒 What to Bring?** ✔️ **Comfortable hiking shoes (or able to supply, let me know size)** **✔️ Wind/water-resistant jacket**🧥 ✔️ **Long pants & long sleeves** 🌿 ✔️ **Hat/beanie** 🧢 ✔️ **Lunch for day 1+2** ✔️ Christmas dinner share plate ✔️ **A positive mindset & big smile!** 😊 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 📢 **Questions?** Feel free to **DM me anytime!** 📩 ✨ **Let’s make this an adventure to remember** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ***🌟 Days Include :*** 🥾 A 10 km guided forest **hike** (190 m elevation gain) 🍉 Snacks, coffee/tea, soft drinks 🌄 Visits to stunning **lookouts** 🌺 **Winery** — scenery and beauty combined 🚐 Scenic road trip through ✨ **Meditation** & grounding 😊 Christmas **BBQ** 🛶 **Kayaking** on a beautiful lake ✨ Cosy shared **accommodation** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Visit our sources: https://www.facebook.com/groups/812911556223655/?ref=share Instagram: nogeography.hike.kayak https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/no-geography-hike-and-kayak/ \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Credited or refunded only if the event is canceled/moved. Non-refundable in any other cases \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **\*\*\*Two Days. Endless Views. Lasting Joy**. **\*\*\*** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **LIABILITY WAIVER** The organizer of this group cannot accept any liability for any loss, damage, injury, or accident to participants or their property at this event. By participating in this event, you're taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. By joining this event you agree to these terms. ## **COVID-19 Safety Measures** * The event host is instituting the above safety measures for this event. * Please do not attend if you are experiencing any flu-like symptoms, such as fever, cough, or sore throat. * If you have recently tested positive for COVID-19 or have been in close contact with someone who has, we kindly ask that you refrain from attending. * Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in keeping our community safe!

Fed Square is doing another FREE outdoor cinema! This time it’s one of my favourite film series Lord Of The Rings 🧝‍♀️ I absolutely love these films and they have inspired many of my artworks 🎨✨ This is more of a social hangout event but bring your art supplies along if you feel like sketching, i’ll be bringing my sketchbook ✏️ Invite your friends along too, everyone is welcome to join this event! 🍿For food and drinks in the area there will be a food truck called Bilbo Snaggins and ACMI will have a snack bar open around the upper square entrance serving choc tops, popcorn and other treats🥤 It will be the full extended versions of the films and they will be showing over the course of 3 days 🎥✨ Saturday 27th 6pm - The Fellowship Of The Ring Sunday 28th 6pm - The Two Towers Monday 29th 6pm - The Return Of The King Here’s the link to the event on Fed Squares website to see more info https://fedsquare.com/events/outdoor-cinema-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy

**Summary** I love hiking [Highbanks](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/highbanks/) in the winter after the sun has gone down. Highbanks is never really dark -- there's too much ambient light from Lewis Center. But I love the trails at night. When I started hiking Highbanks, I was afraid of getting lost and particularly at night. But now that I know my way around, nighttime is one of my favorite times to hike there. In addition, near the end of our hike, we will take a few minutes to walk around the Nature Center and look at the Christmas lights. (The Nature Center itself will be closed, however, by the time we get to it.) We will meet next to the restrooms at the [Big Meadows Picnic Area](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/HBK_Web_1980.png). They're all the way at the back of the park, and they can be found at coordinates [40°09'06.6"N 83°02'30.2"W](https://www.google.com/maps/place/40%C2%B009'06.6%22N+83%C2%B002'30.2%22W/@40.151828,-83.0423587,214m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m10!1m5!3m4!2zNDDCsDA5JzA4LjAiTiA4M8KwMDEnNDUuMSJX!8m2!3d40.1522222!4d-83.0291944!3m3!8m2!3d40.151827!4d-83.041715?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTIwNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) (near the playground and the zip line). We'll hike about 5 miles on the Dripping Rock and Overlook Trails. Afterward, we'll head over to [Olentangy River Brewing](https://www.olentangybrew.com/) for drinks and [food](https://www.olentangybrew.com/eventsandfood). Last year, the weather wasn't too terrible, and the Brewery had their patio fire pits going and we were able to sit outside. The fire pits at night are kind of amazing. The actual address of the brewery is [303 Green Meadows Dr S, Lewis Center, OH 43035](https://www.google.com/maps/place/303+Green+Meadows+Dr+S,+Lewis+Center,+OH+43035/@40.1551938,-83.0144045,17.25z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x8838f395cef06c97:0xe407de61b3e30069!8m2!3d40.1551765!4d-83.0124352!16s%2Fg%2F11c26jc7j9?entry=ttu). If you can't make the hike, we should be there by 7:45. **How to find our starting point in Big Meadows** If you are new to Highbanks, the Big Meadows picnic area is 1.5 miles into the park just after you turn into the park off of U.S. Route 23. That is, after you enter the park, drive a mile and a half into the park. You will come to a crosswalk with a yield sign in the middle of it (this is not to be confused with the first such crosswalk you come to just in front of the Nature Center, which you arrive at maybe a quarter of a mile into the park). Just after this second crosswalk, make a left. Then make another almost immediate left into the parking lot on your left. There you will see the jungle gym and the kiddie zip line to your left. I will be just in front of the restrooms just a bit further down from the jungle gym and picnic shelter; the restroom building will also be on your left. **Note on our starting time** Highbanks closes at 8:00 this time of year, and they get kind of snarly about getting everyone out of the park by then. So please be on time for this hike. I want to allow two hours for the hike and be back at Big Meadows by 7:30. So we're shoving off at 5:30, with or without a quorum.

**History** [Blacklick Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blacklick-woods/), established in 1949, holds the distinction of being the first Columbus Metro Park. Its creation stemmed from a post-World War II push to preserve natural areas amid rapid suburban growth. The land, originally farmland and woodlots along Blacklick Creek, was acquired by the Columbus Metropolitan Park Board through donations and purchases. Early efforts focused on basic trail development and reforestation to combat erosion. The park's name derives from the creek, which early settlers called "Black Lick" due to its dark, mineral-rich waters. By the 1950s, it served as a model for the expanding Metro Parks system. In the 1960s, Blacklick Woods expanded significantly with additional land acquisitions, reaching over 600 acres. A golf course was added in 1964, one of the first public courses in the region, designed to generate revenue for park maintenance. Native American artifacts, including arrowheads from the Adena culture, were discovered during construction, highlighting the area's prehistoric use as hunting grounds. The park introduced interpretive programs to educate visitors on local ecology and history. Flood control measures along the creek became a priority after heavy rains caused damage. These developments solidified its role as a recreational hub. The 1970s and 1980s brought environmental awareness, leading to habitat restoration projects at Blacklick Woods. Invasive species were removed, and native wildflowers were planted in the meadows. A nature center opened in 1976, featuring exhibits on wetlands and forests. The park's slate-covered bridge, a remnant of 19th-century infrastructure, was preserved as a historic feature. Birdwatching gained popularity with the addition of observation decks. Community volunteers played a key role in trail maintenance and cleanups. During the 1990s, Blacklick Woods underwent major upgrades, including paved multi-use trails for biking and hiking. The Walter A. Tucker Nature Preserve, a 53-acre old-growth forest within the park, was dedicated in 1995 to protect rare beech-maple woodlands. Educational partnerships with local schools introduced field trips on topics like stream ecology. The golf course was renovated to improve playability while minimizing environmental impact. Annual events, such as the fall festival, drew thousands to celebrate the park's natural beauty. These enhancements balanced recreation with conservation. In the 21st century, Blacklick Woods has adapted to increasing visitation with sustainable practices. Solar panels were installed at facilities in the 2010s to reduce energy costs. The park now spans 643 acres, offering diverse habitats from wetlands to uplands. Recent initiatives include pollinator gardens and prescribed burns to maintain prairie areas. It remains a flagship for the Metro Parks, inspiring similar preservations system-wide. Ongoing archaeological surveys continue to uncover traces of early inhabitants. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Blacklick Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BLK-map-May-2025-with-extended-greenway_1980px.jpg). **Summary** For this event, we will hike about 4.5 miles by doing a couple loops of the Buttonbush, Tucker, Maple Loop, and Beech trails. Blacklick Woods is a very nice park, but it is generally flat and not strenuous, so this will be one of the easier hikes that we do. **Where We'll Meet** Drive all the way to the back of the park to the parking lot that is nearest the Nature Center. There are restrooms here next to the Canopy Walk. We'll meet near these restrooms. Speaking of the [Canopy Walk](https://www.metroparks.net/blog/canopy-walk-is-your-gateway-to-the-sky/), it's not officially part of the event this time. However, if interested people want to freelance and check it out after the hike (before heading to the brewery), that's okay. **After the Hike** After we're done with the trails, we'll head to [Prost Beer & Wine Café](https://prostcafe.com/) for drinks and [food](https://prostcafe.com/reynoldsburg-prost-beer-and-wine-cafe-food-menu). The actual address of the brewery is [7354 E Main St, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068](https://www.google.com/maps/place/7354+E+Main+St,+Reynoldsburg,+OH+43068/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x8838648cfb8d2dbb:0x545274bab130e9bb?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and we should be there by 5:00 if you just want to do that and skip the hike.

We will meet next to the restrooms at the [Big Meadows Picnic Area](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/HBK_Web_1980.png). They're all the way at the back of the park, and they can be found at coordinates [40°09'06.6"N 83°02'30.2"W](https://www.google.com/maps/place/40%C2%B009'06.6%22N+83%C2%B002'30.2%22W/@40.151828,-83.0423587,214m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m10!1m5!3m4!2zNDDCsDA5JzA4LjAiTiA4M8KwMDEnNDUuMSJX!8m2!3d40.1522222!4d-83.0291944!3m3!8m2!3d40.151827!4d-83.041715?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTIwNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) (near the playground and the zip line). We'll hike about 5 miles at [Highbanks Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/highbanks/) on the Dripping Rock and Overlook Trails. Afterward, we'll head over to [Olentangy River Brewing](https://www.olentangybrew.com/) for drinks, coffee, or food (their Sunday [food truck](https://www.olentangybrew.com/eventsandfood) is Venezuelan and always gets good reviews). The actual address of the brewery is [303 Green Meadows Dr S, 43035](https://www.google.com/maps/place/303+Green+Meadows+Dr+S,+Lewis+Center,+OH+43035/@40.1551938,-83.0144045,17.25z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x8838f395cef06c97:0xe407de61b3e30069!8m2!3d40.1551765!4d-83.0124352!16s%2Fg%2F11c26jc7j9?entry=ttu). If you can't make the hike, we should be there by noon. **How to find our starting point in Big Meadows:** If you are new to Highbanks, the Big Meadows picnic area is 1.5 miles into the park just after you turn into the park off of U.S. Route 23. That is, after you enter the park, drive a mile and a half into the park. You will come to a crosswalk with a yield sign in the middle of it (this is not to be confused with the first such crosswalk you come to just in front of the Nature Center, which you arrive at maybe a quarter of a mile into the park). Just after this second crosswalk, make a left. Then make another almost immediate left into the parking lot on your left. There you will see the jungle gym and the kiddie zip line to your left. I will be just in front of the restrooms just a bit further down from the jungle gym and picnic shelter; the restroom building will also be on your left.

Join us this December for a (possibly!) snowy walk in Sharon Woods Metropark. This hike is dog friendly!🐕 Hot cocoa and candy canes will be provided after the hike. [Please register for this hike here](https://forms.gle/e7mLpRt2zWev2WnB6) to receive alerts and specifics about this event.