Park
Meet other local people interested in Park: share experiences, inspire and encourage each other! Join a Park group.
0
members
0
groups
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out park events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the park events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find park events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Park Events Today
Join in-person Park events happening right now
Salsa in the park đđș
đđș Salsa Tuesdays at Cinquantenaire!
Join us this Tuesday under the arches for an evening of dancing, music, and great vibes âïž
âš Schedule:6:30 PM â Beginners7:30 PM â Intermediate8:30 PM â Improvers
đ First class is FREE for all newcomers!đ° Single class: âŹ15 | 5 classes: âŹ65 | 10 classes: âŹ120
Whether you're just starting or looking to improve your moves, come be part of our growing salsa community đ
See you on the dance floor! đ¶
Wouuuuu SoirĂ©e Loups-Garous đș
# Soirée Loups-Garous
## Villageois ou Loup-Garou ?
Nouvel événement, nouvelle organisation ...
Vous voulez participer à cette soirée jeu ?
Rien de plus simple
1\. Inscrivez vous à l'événement dans les temps
2\. Vous recevrez un message personnel avec le numĂ©ro de compte sur lequel versez le droit d'entrĂ©e de 6 âŹ
3\. DÚs que vous avez payé vous recevez le lieu et l'adresse précise de l'événement
Je vous propose une ambiance conviviale, un lieu chaleureux oĂč vous pourrez boire et manger.
**Comme cet événement nécessite une réservation, ne vous inscrivez que si vous comptez réellement participer.**
*Organisation:*
*chacun paie ce qu'il consomme,
- le nombre de participants est limité à 6,
***svp soyez ponctuels, ou au minimum prévenez de votre retard,***
* **si vous ne venez pas vous ne récupérez pas la somme versée.*
Langue de l'événement: **uniquement en français**
*N'hésitez jamais à m'envoyer un message si vous avez une question.
Au plaisir de vous voir bientĂŽt,
Laure
Brussels Runners - Tuesday Intervals
We do cycles of 4-6 weeks, with a progressive load, and a recovery week at the end of the cycle.
Session:
* 10 - 20â warm up (easy run and drills)
* Core session (ie. 6x5' - 2' recovery)
* Cool down
We run together during Warm-up, and cool down and tey to regroup during recovery time. Paces are not imposed (everyone runs at his/her own pace) given the intensity suggested.
Notes:
It's NOT required to have an activity tracker or smart watch to be able to follow the session, as I'll be giving signals with a whistle.
Intervals training is not advised for total beginners. To have an idea, the average pace at the warm up is around 5'45"/km-6'15"/km so this pace should feel very comfortable
***Acknowledgement of member responsibility and release of liability.***
By signing up for this event, you agree to release the organizers from any responsibility and liability in all claims. As the participation is strictly voluntary and you freely choose to join, it is the responsibility of individuals participating to ensure that they are fit enough and have adequate coverage to protect themselves.
French Language Meetup @ Ibis Hotel off Grand Place
Do you like keeping your French up to date? Or do you want to help the ones that need some help here? If so, this meet up activity might be something for you :)
Let's meet in order to have conversations in French together!
* How to find us? -
This meetup will take place at an easy to find venue, which is very close to subway station Gare Central and nearly to Grande place Brussels In this venue, it's possible to eat a little something - or to just have some drinks.
we are in the hotel there is the big table ,
If you want speak with a few people you can change your chair or your place.
For those who already speak a bit of French -
ANYONE that can take part in the Meet up without having to ask "What does this mean?" all the time, is MORE than welcome!
(And yes, pretending to understand it all and "Nodd and smile IS allowed :) )
Because reading and listening are very good teachers too...
In fact anything that doesn't slow down practicing the language goes :)
Or in more strict words: this Meet up is not the best place to go to for absolute beginners
If you can not find call please Olivier 0476600552 or Mehrdad 0486652242
[https://www.google.com/maps/place/Rue+du+March%C3%A9+Aux+Herbes+100,+1000+Bruxelles/@50.8466178,4.3551211,3a,28.7y,35.83h,95.4t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1spHFBcXTJGMiNd7y_1PFAgg!2e0!7i16384!8i8192!4m5!3m4!1s0x47c3c47f9e11971f:0x7c45bfb50b08362a!8m2!3d50.8467965!4d4.3553835](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Rue+du+March%C3%A9+Aux+Herbes+100,+1000+Bruxelles/@50.8466178,4.3551211,3a,28.7y,35.83h,95.4t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1spHFBcXTJGMiNd7y_1PFAgg!2e0!7i16384!8i8192!4m5!3m4!1s0x47c3c47f9e11971f:0x7c45bfb50b08362a!8m2!3d50.8467965!4d4.3553835)
Address is Rue du Marché Aux Herbes 100
Enjoy the Meetup!
Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop, ForrĂł, African Dance Classes/Cours
EN (FR en bas):
We're still accepting people in our classes. Join us!â
-step 1: Book here! -> [https://www.danceproject.be/reservations.html](https://www.danceproject.be/reservations.html)
-step 2: Show up!
[Schedule](https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#schedule)
Fees :
[All info on trials, packs, subscriptions here](https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#fees)
Locations:
-Rue Brialmont 7, Brussels
Metro/Tram: Botanique
Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop, ForrĂł Intro - 1:
From base to the dancefloor!
When you come for the first time we go over the base & rhythm with you. Then you are included in the group and everybody learns the same new steps for which you just need the base.
Practice makes perfect: just relax and enjoy Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop and/or ForrĂł!
Our group is very welcoming and looking forward to meet new dancers!
Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop, ForrĂł Roots I - 2:
Ready to go deeper on Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop &/or ForrĂł? Let's go!
[https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#improvers](https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#improvers)
Salsa, ForrĂł Roots II - 3:
Looking for #SalsaChallenge? Already familiar with ForrĂł Root? We've got your back!
[https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#intermediates](https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#intermediates)
More info:
-Web: [https://www.danceproject.be](https://www.danceproject.be)
-Whatsapp: +32 493 16 41 10
-Mail: brussels.salsa.project@gmail.com
-[Facebook](https://facebook.com/brussels.salsa.project)
-[Instagram](https://instagram.com/brussels.salsa.project)
\-\-\-\-\-
FR:
Nous acceptons encore de nouvelles personnes dans nos cours. Rejoins-nous !
-1Úre pas : Fait ta réservation ! -> [https://www.danceproject.be/reservation.html](https://www.danceproject.be/reservation.html)
-2Ăšme pas : Vient danser !
[Horaire](https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#horaire)
Les prix :
[Toutes les infos sur les essais, packs, abonnements ici](https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#prix)
Endroits :
-Rue Brialmont 7, Bruxelles
Metro/Tram: Botanique
Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop, ForrĂł Intro - 1 :
De la base Ă la piste de danse !
Lorsque tu nous rejoins on voit la base et le rythme avec toi. Ensuite, tu es inclus dans le groupe et tout le monde apprend les mĂȘmes pas pour lesquelles tu as juste besoin de la base.
C'est en forgeant qu'on devient forgeron : détend-toi et profite la Salsa, de la Bachata, du Lindy Hop et/ou du Forró !
Notre groupe est trĂšs accueillant et a hĂąte de rencontrer de nouveaux danseurs !
Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop, ForrĂł Roots I - 2 :
PrĂȘt Ă approfondir la Salsa, la Bachata, le Lindy Hop &/ou le ForrĂł ? Allons-y!
[https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#inities](https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#inities)
Salsa, ForrĂł Roots II - 3 :
Tu cherches #DefiSalsa ? Tu connais déjà Forró Roots ? Nous sommes là pour toi !
[https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#intermediaires](https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#intermediaires)
Plus dâinfo:
-Web: [https://www.danceproject.be/fr.html](https://www.danceproject.be/fr.html)
-Whatsapp: +32 493 16 41 10
-Mail: brussels.salsa.project@gmail.com
-[Facebook](https://facebook.com/brussels.salsa.project)
-[Instagram](https://instagram.com/brussels.salsa.project)
Conversation Exchange - All languages are welcome !
Would you like to improve your language skills and networking in a casual atmosphere? This event is for you! All languages welcome! Everyone is welcome!
The aim is to speak with native/fluent speakers of your target language(s). You'll be around all types of people throughout the whole event.
We will be in a private area. A great atmosphere is guaranteed!
You'll have to order a drink to attend the event đ
Don't hesitate to contact us for any further information
Bouger et Penser : L'atelier qui muscle le corps et l'esprit (Séance d'essai)
Tu savais que Platon Ă©tait un champion de lutte et que les plus grands penseurs de l'histoire entraĂźnaient autant leurs cuisses que leur tĂȘte ? đïžââïžâš
Ă Bruxelles, on remet cette tradition au goĂ»t du jour avec un concept unique ! Viens dĂ©couvrir comment la sagesse antique peut booster tes performances et ton mental aujourd'hui. Ici, pas de cours thĂ©orique assis sur une chaise : on bouge, on expĂ©rimente et on rĂ©flĂ©chit en mĂȘme temps !
đ„ **Au programme de notre cycle (dont voici un aperçu) :**
* **StoĂŻcisme :** pour rester imperturbable face Ă l'effort et au stress.
* **Domination du mental :** s'inspirer des secrets du Tibet pour se concentrer.
* **L'art du combat :** apprendre Ă se dĂ©passer soi-mĂȘme, sans s'Ă©puiser.
* **L'excellence avec Aristote :** pour viser le geste et l'esprit justes...
đ **PORTES OUVERTES GRATUITES (SĂ©ance d'essai) :** đ
Le mardi 14 avril đ Ă la Maison de la Philosophie Ă Saint-Gilles
â ïž **Places trĂšs limitĂ©es pour garantir la qualitĂ© des Ă©changes.** Envie de tester ? Inscris toi ici et viens nous voir le 12 mai Ă 19h30
Des questions ? Contacte Sylvain (organisateur du groupe)
Park Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
đ§ș Spring Picnic in the Park đž
***\# Family & Dogs: Highly encouraged\! The more\, the merrier\.***
**Location:** Bois de la Cambre \| **Meeting Point:** Near Woodpecker Cafe
Not a runner? No problem! The best part of our Spring celebration is the Post-Run Picnic, and we need a "cheering squad" to hold down the fort while the others hit the trails.
Bring your favorite snacks/drinks, a picnic blanket, and your best Spring energy for a relaxed afternoon in the woods.
**đ
How It Works**
The Meeting: Meet us near the Woodpecker Cafe at 11:30h
The Welcome: Relax and enjoy the park while the runners do the hard workâweâll all eat together as soon as they return.
**đ„ Picnic Essentials**
**Bring to Share:** Drinks, finger foods, or your favorite treats.
**Family & Dogs:** Highly encouraged! The more, the merrier.
**Stay Warm:** Even on sunny days, it can get chilly under the trees. Bring an extra layer or a comfortable chair.
**đ Where to Find Us**
Weâll be setting up our picnic spot on the lawns of the Bois De La Cambre near the Woodpecker Cafe.
**Schedule for Non-Runners:**
**Picnic Start**: [11.30] â We start the feast as soon as the runners crosse the "finish line."
Tervuren
* 42km loop from Parc du Cinquantenaire to beyond Tervuren and return through the forest.
* Coffee 10h30 \| leaving 11h00\.
* Estimated moving time 2h40 not including lunch and some brief stops.
* Lunch at a picnic table at the halfway point after Tervurenâbring your own.
* Meet at [Guingette Maurice](https://www.google.com/search?num=10&sca_esv=c9874bb074d0c29e&biw=2048&bih=1022&sxsrf=ANbL-n7VfOmjMKdEleL4ozbIswY-bStEPw:1777023676638&q=Guingette+Maurice&si=AL3DRZGNtcdgKOqVhotcr-UG2kkYpwR2WO4qu3O00NmpwBmLnWGlJ-sJ67ZY5GMMMbeMY-1kVZqsmva8UgiBKmBXfuRGV7y4itqLk5c6f-bOxJRrBHBdGct3W4jSxNn4GyEwXFP3l5Pl&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiDpYOImYaUAxVDTqQEHXotOi0Q_coHegQIPRAB) in Parc du Cinquantenaire.
* View the route or download the GPX from [here](https://loc.wiki/t/260835703?wa=sc).
* If bad weather is forecast this will be cancelled or rescheduled so check this event page before start time.
* More general information on the [About](https://www.meetup.com/brussels-cycling-group/) page.
* Tel: 04 86 40 6816
Kundalini yoga Classes @yogastudiobrussels
## **Kundalini Yoga & Gong**
**2026 Theme: Connection to the True, Timeless Self**
Classes in English & French / Cours en anglais et français
**Duration: 1.5 hours / Durée : 1h30**
## **ENGLISH**
In **2026**, the overarching theme of our practice will be **connection to the true, timeless Self** â a space beyond roles, stories, and change, where we can directly experience our infinite being through embodied practice.
These Kundalini Yoga classes offer a space to explore this connection through **movement, breathwork, meditation, and sound**. The practice gently guides us from the thinking mind into a deeper state of presence, supporting clarity, grounding, and inner alignment.
A gong is carefully selected from a wide collection to accompany each class, supporting the nervous system and creating a spacious field for integration, rest, and transformation.
**No previous experience is needed.** Classes are open to all and last **1.5 hours**.
**Pricing**
â Single class: âŹ20
â 10-class pass: âŹ160
**Bring:** water and comfortable clothing
**To join:** RSVP or send us a message (limited spots)
Follow us on Instagram: **@nirmalkaram**
***
## **FRANĂAIS**
En **2026**, le fil conducteur de notre pratique sera la **connexion au Soi vĂ©ritable et intemporel** â un espace au-delĂ des rĂŽles, des histoires personnelles et du changement, oĂč il devient possible de faire lâexpĂ©rience directe de notre nature profonde et infinie Ă travers une pratique incarnĂ©e.
Ces cours de Kundalini Yoga proposent un espace dâexploration Ă travers le **mouvement, le souffle, la mĂ©ditation et le son**. La pratique invite progressivement Ă quitter le mental pour entrer dans un Ă©tat de prĂ©sence plus vaste, favorisant lâancrage, la clartĂ© et lâalignement intĂ©rieur.
Un gong est sĂ©lectionnĂ© avec soin parmi une large collection afin dâaccompagner chaque sĂ©ance, de soutenir le systĂšme nerveux et dâouvrir un espace propice Ă lâintĂ©gration, au repos et Ă la transformation.
**Aucune expĂ©rience prĂ©alable nâest nĂ©cessaire.** Les cours sont accessibles Ă tous et durent **1h30**.
**Tarifs**
â Cours Ă lâunitĂ© : 20 âŹ
â Carte de 10 cours : 160 âŹ
**Ă apporter :** bouteille dâeau et tenue confortable
**Pour participer :** RSVP ou message (places limitées)
Suivez-nous sur Instagram : **@nirmalkaram**
***
đż Balade Qigong #6 â Magnifique Autour de La Vallee du Molenbeek
For more informations about all my classes, events, workshops and retreats
https://www.thehappybody.be/contact
\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-
đŹđ§ This event is also open to English speakers â explanations will be given in both French and English
\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-
đ
Date : 17 May @ 11.00 ( actual departure 11.15 - no waiting after that)
đ DĂ©part : Rue Scheutbosch corner wit Bld Louis Mettewie ([lien](https://maps.app.goo.gl/JfpKbFfK67DV85qE9))
đ ArrivĂ©e : Place St Lambert
đ¶ââïž Distance : ± 9 km - NOT A LOOP
ⰠDurée : environ 3-4h (marche + Qigong)
\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-
đČ Rejoignez aussi le groupe WhatsApp pour toutes les communications relatives a cet Ă©vĂ©nement qui se feront via ce groupe. https://chat.whatsapp.com/LNUvsvoGrRyEkS4meiyrir?mode=gi_t
My phone number: 0492 92 00 84
***
### **đ± Description**
Rejoignez-nous pour la SixiĂšme Ă©tape de notre grand cycle « Les 12 Balades Qigong â Promenade Verte de Bruxelles ».
Chaque mois, nous parcourons un tronçon de la Promenade Verte en mĂȘlant marche douce et pratique de Qigong en pleine nature.
Au fil du parcours, nous ferons des pauses pour pratiquer des mouvements simples de Qigong, accessibles Ă tous, afin de :
* harmoniser la respiration,
* libérer les tensions accumulées,
* sâancrer profondĂ©ment dans la nature environnante.
***
### **đ Infos pratiques**
* Activité ouverte à tous niveaux, aucune expérience en Qigong requise.
* VĂȘtements confortables et adaptĂ©s Ă la mĂ©tĂ©o.
* Chaussures de marche conseillées (terrain parfois TREShumide).
* Apporter une gourde dâeau.
***
### **đ RĂ©servations**
đČ Inscription obligatoire via Meetup pour garantir une bonne organisation.
Nombre de places limitées afin de garder un cadre convivial et respectueux.
***
âš A quiet, almost hidden corner where Brussels slows down.
The Molenbeek Valley offers a mix of small paths, open spaces, and slightly wild areas â an ideal environment to step out of the usual rhythm and reconnect with your body.
We begin with a gentle walk to reach a calm practice spot.
During the session, youâll be introduced to Qigong â a simple and effective practice rooted in traditional Chinese movement. It combines slow movements, breathing, and attention to help release tension, improve mobility, and calm the nervous system.
The exercises are easy to follow, even if itâs your first time.
The focus is not on performance, but on sensation: moving with awareness, breathing more freely, and allowing the body to reset.
Depending on the session, we may explore sequences like **Ba Duan Jin (Eight Brocades)**, each with its own focus on circulation, joints, and overall energy.
We close with a quiet return walk, giving the body time to integrate â often leaving with a clearer mind and a lighter, more grounded feeling.
đââïž Social Run at Parc du Cinquantenaire â 5K
**Come join us for a friendly social run at Parc du Cinquantenaire** đłđïž
Weâll meet at Parc du Cinquantenaire, Brussels and run either 5 km, depending on how everyone feels on the day.
All levels are welcome đ€ The focus is on enjoying the run, staying active, and meeting new people.
Bring your running shoes đ, water đ§, and positive energy âĄ
**đ Location: Parc du Cinquantenaire, Brussels**
**đ Contact: 0471695419**
Letâs enjoy a great run together! đââïžđââïžâš
Hike Godinne â Abbey of Maredsous â Yvoir (27 km)
This hike takes us through the ***forests of the Ardennes*** between Namur and Dinant passing several ***picturesque villages*** along the way. We start in Godinne where we enter the forest almost immediately after leaving the village. The route leads us to the ***Abbey of Maredsous*** where we take a wellâdeserved break to taste their ***famous beers and cheeses*** [www.tourisme-maredsous.be/?lang=en](http://www.tourisme-maredsous.be/?lang=en)
After this stop we continue towards ***the Chùteau de Montaigle***, the impressive castle ruins near ***Falaën.*** For the final part of the hike we mainly follow the ***GR 129*** guiding us through the ***Ardennes landscape*** to our destination Yvoir.
***After our hike*** we continue our good habit of ***taking a nice beer/pancake/snack in a local pub*** in Yvoir before returning to Brussels.
**Please don't forget to pay Maikel a drink :-)**
We will walk at ***an average speed of 5km/h*** both on paved and unpaved roads. ***Iâve never walked this road before so itâs possible that there are some mistakes in the planning***. This means it could become longer.
**ââMeeting point**
We meet at ***08h50 in front of Starbucks in Brussels Central***. The train (IC2509 â Yvoir) leaves from ***platform 3 at 09h07***. We arrive at our ***destination Godinne at 10h35*** and start our hike to the ***Maredsous Abbey and Yvoir***.
***ââ Train tickets***
\- single ticket Brussels to Godinne \(9\,60 ⏠weekend / 5\,80 ⏠with train card\+\)
\- single ticket Yvoir to Brussels \(10\,20 ⏠weekend / 6\,10 ⏠with train card\+\)
***ââ Trains back to Brussels***
There is a ***direct train every hour*** from Yvoir to Brussels at xx:21
***LAST TRAIN = 21h21***
**ââ Specifics**
distance: \~ 27 km
elevation gain: \~ 502 m
net walking time ***(breaks are not included here):*** \~ 6h00
level: ***intermediate â hiking expercience is an advantage***
In the unlikely case of too bad weather we may cancel a hike even few hours before the event. If this must happen we will of course update the Meetup website and send out an email to those registered. So, it is important to have access to either the [Meetup](http://meetup.com/) website and/or your emails.
**ââ *What to bring***
\- warm comfortable hiking clothes â *waterproof hiking shoes*
\- extra socks to change \+ compeed for blisters
\- enough water \(min 2 l\) and food for lunch/breaks
\- sun protection oil\, tick repellent\, a hat and sunglasses OR a raincoat
(please consult the weather forecast on [www.meteo.be](http://www.meteo.be/))
**\- some cash money to pay Maikel a drink ;\-\)**
**ââ *Basic rules***
Please RSVP only if **you really intend to come**. And if your plans change **update your RSVP** so other people still have the possibility to join. This is basic courtesy towards others. **People who cancel at the last day (24h) or donât show up for the hike will be blacklisted for future hikes.**
**When you are on the waitinglist it means you should not come to the hike. When there is no +1 function it means you can't bring any guests. Everyone should register for him/her self.**
**ââ Acknowledgement of member responsibility and release of liability**
By signing up for this event you agree to release the organizers from any responsibility and liability in all claims. As the participation is strictly voluntary and you freely choose to join, it is the responsibility of individuals participating to ensure that they are fit enough and have adequate coverage to protect themselves.
Park Events Near You
Connect with your local Park community
Trails & Ales! Blendon Woods Metro Park / Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery
**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 parkâs 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 parkâs 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.
Three Creeks Metro Park
We'll get in around 4 miles at Three Creeks Metro Parks, primarily natural trails. 17-18 minute miles, no one left behind, and faster walkers are free to lead out.
Optional lunch after!
If you're joining for hiking all the metro parks, this is the sixth one!
Rocky Fork Hike
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. Letâs take it in together!



















