Park

**Come join us for a friendly social run at Parc du Cinquantenaire** 🌳🏛️ We’ll meet at Parc du Cinquantenaire, Brussels and run either 5 km, depending on how everyone feels on the day. All levels are welcome 🤝 The focus is on enjoying the run, staying active, and meeting new people. Bring your running shoes 👟, water 💧, and positive energy ⚡ **📍 Location: Parc du Cinquantenaire, Brussels** **📞 Contact: 0471695419** Let’s enjoy a great run together! 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️✨

Join us bowling and drinks at Crosly Bowling. We'll kick off the night with a few rounds of bowling on one of their 25 lanes, offering both classic and disco-themed experiences. Whether you're a seasoned bowler or a first-timer, it's all about fun and making friends. It's the perfect opportunity to unwind, socialize, and take an evening drink with other people. The cost of the event is **15 euro**, which includes one game + shoes rental + organisational fees. Ticket is shared in the comments of this event and in the WhatsApp group. Any additional game, drink or snack will be at personal expenses. To come to the event you need to be a member (starting from 5€/year). Be aware that if you are voyager or ambassador members, organisational fees are waived. Please note that for respect of the participants, we are asking to be **on time** to the event. People that arrive late might not be able to play. **Additional Information:** *Crosly Bowling is located just 500 meters from Brussels Central Station, making it easily accessible by public transport. - Feel free to invite friends or colleagues; the more, the merrier! We look forward to seeing you there for an evening of fun, relaxation, and spectacular views!

CE JEUDI 14.05 [15.30 – 23.05] – C’EST CONGE ET ON EN PROFITE ! **[Open Air - Bois de la Cambre | Le Flore x Les Belges Jeunesses \[THU . 14/05\] | FREE ENTRANCE](https://fb.me/e/5NV3J7BAh)** *** Les Belges Jeunesses 🇧🇪 🎉 APÉRO GRATUIT – 14 MAI 🎉 📍 Bois de la Cambre – INDOOR & OUTDOOR 🗓 Jour férié – Jour férié – jeudi de l'Ascension 🕐 Dès 15h30 jusqu’à 23:50 ! Les Belges Jeunesses X Le flore *** =>>> ENTREE GRATUITE > VOICI LE LIEN : [https://www.partyfinder.com/en/event/16101](https://www.partyfinder.com/en/event/16101) =>>> Facebook : [https://fb.me/e/5NV3J7BAh](https://fb.me/e/5NV3J7BAh) *** Un apéro 100% GRATUIT, en pleine nature au cœur de Bruxelles, pour profiter du jour férié comme il se doit ☀️🍹 🔥 Open Air & Indoor – on est prêts pour TOUT ! Soleil ou pluie, l’ambiance sera au rendez-vous 🌈 🎶 Music chill, rires, rencontres et vibes chill ! 🍷 Bar accessible – softs, vins, bières et cocktails 🍕 Food & petits snacks Ramène tes potes, ton plaid, ton plus beau sourire et viens trinquer avec nous ! Car nous t'invitons à l'Afterwork à ne pas manquer [15:30 - 23:50] ! OUI OUI, c'est GRATUIT, en plein air en plein centre de Bruxelles 🌳 Vous avez deviné ? On se retrouve bien en effet au Flore (Bois de la Cambre) pour profiter d'un véritable moment de décompression en terrasse 🥂 Un moment de légèreté dans la nature avec tes potes ou tes collègues pour profiter du soleil et ne pas se prendre la tête ☀️ *** Info’s ▔▔▔ → Free Entrance → Jeudi 14 mai de 15h30 à 23h50 → Facile d’accès en transports en commun, vélo ou la trottinette ! → La direction se réserve le droit d'entrée → Minimum 18 ans → Questions ? +32475287454 *** Rendez-vous au Flore Chemin de la Meute, 1 1000 Région de Bruxelles-Capitale, Belgique POUR l'AFTER, ON VOUS DIRA LE SOIR-MÊME...

**Cinema Palace : Everything is temporary** 14/05 @ 19h00 En août 2020, la cinéaste Juliette Klinke embarque pour le Myanmar, un pays dont elle ne connaît pratiquement rien, pour rejoindre son compagnon. Alors que le Covid-19 ronge le pays comme le reste du globe, elle trouve refuge auprès de la famille de Zu Zu, une jeune fille de 17 ans qui n’attend que la réouverture des universités pour réaliser son rêve de devenir agente de police et servir sa communauté. Avec des moyens rudimentaires, la réalisatrice capture la naissance de cette amitié improbable avec tendresse et humilité. Alors que la crise sanitaire bat son plein, enfermant la population entre quatre murs, voilà qu’un violent coup d’État orchestré par la junte militaire vient abattre un nouveau fléau. Ce qui se profilait jusqu’alors comme le recueil cinématographique et intime d’une connexion humaine prend alors une toute autre ampleur… Les mots comme les gestes de Zu Zu, immortalisés par le regard affectueux de la cinéaste, sont autant de témoignages des craintes et des espoirs d’une génération lucide et bien décidée à bousculer les certitudes. James Berclaz-Lewis [Cinema Palace](https://cinema-palace.be/en/events/be-curious-everything-temporary) [Visions du Réel](https://www.visionsdureel.ch/film/2024/everything-is-temporary/) **For Dreamers, Coffee shots, Orezza, eau de Saint-Georges !**

Shake off the workday and train with a welcoming crew of internationals and Brussels professionals. This is a **co-hosted session with F45 Brussels**—fast, fun, and coached circuit training that fits perfectly after work. **Why join?** * **Community vibe:** Friendly, social, in English. * **All levels welcome:** Coaches demo every move with **easier/harder options**. * **Time-smart:** 45 minutes, full-body, high energy, great music. * **Accountability:** Come with the group, leave with endorphins. **What we’ll do** 1. Quick intro & warm-up 2. **F45 functional circuits** (intervals that mix strength + cardio) 3. Team finisher & cool down 4. Optional post workout social drink/rooftop bowling nearby (meet new people, not just new burpees 😉) **Good to know** * **When:** Thursday, **6:30 PM start** (arrive 6:15 to check in) * **Where:** **F45 Brussels** (Brussels Central Station) Galeries Ravenstein * **Bring:** Clean trainers, towel, water bottle * **Fitness level:** Beginner to advanced (scalable stations) * **Capacity:** Limited spots — **RSVP required** * **Price:** Free weekly tryout **Who this is for** * New in Brussels and want a **friendly fitness + social** routine * Busy professional looking for a **structured, coached** workout * Sunday Vacations regulars who want to stay fit for hikes & trips **About F45** F45 = **Functional 45-minute training**: coach-led, station-based, results-driven. Expect variety, technique tips, and a positive team atmosphere. See you on the floor at 6:30! 💪🏽✨ By joining this event, you agree to the Sunday Vacations [Terms & Conditions](https://www.sundayvacations.com/terms), [Privacy Policy](https://www.sundayvacations.com/privacy) & [Code of Conduct](https://www.sundayvacations.com/code)

Hello dear well-being persons, For this 1st event with a raining weather, I propose to meet, enjoy energetic food, drinks & play Azul and checkers boardgames (and maybe dance salsa/bachata of there's amateurs!) in a cosy and green place (a family house)! Hoping to see you many, with positive vibes! ☀️, Alex

Socializing and Networking 🛜🆕 at PLUX on Thursday. Making new friends and drinking 🚰🎈🎉🚿🌊. Everybody Welocme, locals, expats or new 🆕 in town.

# 🌲 Coo Escape: Ardennes Forest Hike & Waterfall Views **Trade the city for forests, fresh air, and panoramic Ardennes landscapes.** Join Sunday Vacations for a scenic Sunday hiking experience around Coo and Trois-Ponts — featuring forest trails, elevated viewpoints, riverside sections, and the famous Coo waterfalls. Designed for international professionals, expats, locals, and solo joiners, this experience combines movement, nature, and meaningful social connection in one of Belgium’s most beautiful regions. *** ## Experience Overview This curated Ardennes loop hike begins from **Trois-Ponts railway station** and takes us through scenic forest trails, panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Amblève Valley, and the iconic surroundings of Coo. Expect a relaxed but active Sunday with a welcoming international group atmosphere, social picnic breaks, and plenty of opportunities to disconnect from routine and reconnect with nature. People increasingly join outdoor community experiences not just for the activity itself, but for the sense of connection and belonging they create. *** ## Event Type 🌿 **Curated Experience** *** ## Highlights * Scenic Ardennes forest hike * Great viewpoints over the Coo region * Discover the famous Coo waterfalls * Beautiful riverside and woodland trails * Relaxed international community atmosphere * Solo joiners welcome * Ideal Sunday nature reset * Train-accessible from Brussels *** ## Plan / Itinerary **08:45** – Meet at Starbucks Coffee, Brussels Central Station **09:01** – Train departure from Brussels Central **11:05** – Start of the hike from Trois-Ponts railway station **13:15** – Picnic & social break with scenic views **14:00** – Continue panoramic forest circuit toward Coo **16:30** – Optional stop near Coo waterfalls **17:05** – Train back toward Brussels **18:55** – Estimated arrival in Brussels *Schedule may slightly adapt depending on group pace and weather conditions.* *** ## Meeting Point 📍 Starbucks Coffee – Brussels Central Station Please arrive on time so the group can depart together. *** ## Hike Information 🥾 Distance: Approximately 16 km ⛰ Difficulty: Moderate with some elevation 🔄 Route Type: Loop Circuit 📍 Region: Coo & Trois-Ponts, Belgian Ardennes *** ## Price / Contribution **Community contribution:** €5 for non members and Explorer members Includes: * Event organisation * Group coordination * Guided community hiking experience Not included: * Train tickets * Food & drinks * Personal expenses Participants purchase transportation independently unless otherwise specified. **VAT not applicable – small business exemption scheme, Article 56bis Belgian VAT Code.** *** ## Membership ### Sunday Vacations Memberships * **Explorer** – €5/year * **Voyager** – €50/year * **Ambassador** – €150/year Members receive access to discounts, priority registrations, and selected community perks throughout the year. *** ## Who This Is For Perfect for: * Expats and international professionals * Solo joiners * Nature lovers * People looking for meaningful social experiences * Beginner to intermediate hikers * Anyone wanting a refreshing Sunday outside Brussels Research consistently shows that expats highly value experiences that support social connection, quality of life, and community belonging. *** ## What to Bring * Hiking shoes with good grip * Water bottle * Packed lunch or snacks * Rain jacket / weather layers * Small backpack * Positive energy *** ## Important Notes * Some trails may be muddy or slippery depending on weather conditions. * This is a community-oriented hiking experience, not a competitive sports activity. * The route may be adjusted slightly depending on weather or trail conditions. * Please ensure you are comfortable walking for several hours with breaks. Nature-focused and wellbeing-oriented travel experiences continue to grow as people increasingly seek restorative and intentional ways to spend their weekends. *** ## Legal Disclaimer Sunday Vacations / UJAMAA ASBL acts as a community organiser facilitating social and cultural experiences and does not operate as a licensed travel agency. Transportation and all third-party services are independently provided by external operators and remain the responsibility of participants unless explicitly stated otherwise. Participants join voluntarily and are responsible for ensuring they are physically fit for the activity. *** ## Call to Action 🌿 Ready for a proper Sunday escape? Join us for forests, waterfalls, panoramic Ardennes views, and good company — all just a train ride away from Brussels. Spots are limited to maintain a relaxed and social group atmosphere.

THIS SATURDAY 16.05 – PARTY PLACE TO BE HOT & SPICY \| Single Live Party XXL at Le Cactus Club \> Skip the line & Garanty Pass : **[https://www.partyfinder.com/en/event/16066](https://www.partyfinder.com/en/event/16066?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBEwRGxNZlVpZzBROTU0TlRnOXNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5wP-tf_myBEWU5RgvMI0CoZbdVzRM5RURVr04VAwCDvvztty39tOYavo8LIw_aem_OOWfbbvpyvdN0Am12b5zqA)** \> Facebook : **[https://fb.me/e/58Ky9SgE4](https://fb.me/e/58Ky9SgE4)** ![📅]()Saturday – 16 May 2026 Official After-Party of La Terrasse O2 Open air ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ ![📍]()Cactus Club – Brussels ![✨]()OLD SCHOOL PARTY 80s 90s 2000s ![✨]() Get ready for an unforgettable summer night in one of Brussels’ most iconic party spots! ![🌴]()SPRING VIBES – INTERNATIONAL CROWD – BAR DANCING ![🎧]()Music by: Phil HARLET + Special Guests ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ ![🌍]()INTERNATIONAL PARTY CONCEPT The most iconic and mobile party concepts in Brussels, created by nightlife lovers who have been energizing the city for more than 10 years. Expect a cosmopolitan atmosphere where you’ll meet: ![✨]()Belgian & international artists ![✨]()DJs & nightlife personalities ![✨]()Models & influencers ![✨]()Entrepreneurs & expats ![✨]()Party lovers from all over the world A place where Brussels’ nightlife meets international vibes. ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ ![🎉]()WHAT TO EXPECT ![🔥]()Incredible summer atmosphere ![💃]()Bar dancing ![🌎]()International crowd ![🎶]()Top DJs & party music ![🍹]()Amazing venue & summer vibes Life is a Party – Join Us! ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ ![👗]()DRESS CODE Ladies: Jeans shorts, boots, summer flowers… or simply Be Yourself! Gents: Summer Chic Dress to impress. ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ ![⏰]()DOORS OPEN ![🕥]()10:30 PM Be ready for a wild, crazy and unforgettable party night. ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ ![🍾]()TABLE BOOKINGS ![📧]()info@justanight.net ![📞]()+32 477 60 61 31 ![🚗]()Free parking all night ![🚇]()Easy access by bus, metro, taxi & Uber ![🔥]()COME DANCE – JOIN US – BRING FRIENDS – SPREAD THE WORD ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ **[#SpringbreakParty](https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/springbreakparty?__cft__%5b0%5d=AZZj476f45t0UjSIrtAU-LwIfYgPWaodA-YIpoNdEwrVhLV_KX_GF_rcSE21k0mv44efKlYaRTZWTEf7LFL9MrKrXY5kS6_1Su0icEhx0fE9XJ7PLVeh4Ox2oZKlu_3orFKPq0dWbeI6_5xo1SYTnG9Ma9eLStpzCIVaNI0UDOnNU322i_PfRvItjYzSuWwLHWg&__tn__=*NK-R)** **[#InternationalParty](https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/internationalparty?__cft__%5b0%5d=AZZj476f45t0UjSIrtAU-LwIfYgPWaodA-YIpoNdEwrVhLV_KX_GF_rcSE21k0mv44efKlYaRTZWTEf7LFL9MrKrXY5kS6_1Su0icEhx0fE9XJ7PLVeh4Ox2oZKlu_3orFKPq0dWbeI6_5xo1SYTnG9Ma9eLStpzCIVaNI0UDOnNU322i_PfRvItjYzSuWwLHWg&__tn__=*NK-R)** **[#JustANight](https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/justanight?__cft__%5b0%5d=AZZj476f45t0UjSIrtAU-LwIfYgPWaodA-YIpoNdEwrVhLV_KX_GF_rcSE21k0mv44efKlYaRTZWTEf7LFL9MrKrXY5kS6_1Su0icEhx0fE9XJ7PLVeh4Ox2oZKlu_3orFKPq0dWbeI6_5xo1SYTnG9Ma9eLStpzCIVaNI0UDOnNU322i_PfRvItjYzSuWwLHWg&__tn__=*NK-R)** **[#CactusClub](https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/cactusclub?__cft__%5b0%5d=AZZj476f45t0UjSIrtAU-LwIfYgPWaodA-YIpoNdEwrVhLV_KX_GF_rcSE21k0mv44efKlYaRTZWTEf7LFL9MrKrXY5kS6_1Su0icEhx0fE9XJ7PLVeh4Ox2oZKlu_3orFKPq0dWbeI6_5xo1SYTnG9Ma9eLStpzCIVaNI0UDOnNU322i_PfRvItjYzSuWwLHWg&__tn__=*NK-R)** **[#PartyInBrussels](https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/partyinbrussels?__cft__%5b0%5d=AZZj476f45t0UjSIrtAU-LwIfYgPWaodA-YIpoNdEwrVhLV_KX_GF_rcSE21k0mv44efKlYaRTZWTEf7LFL9MrKrXY5kS6_1Su0icEhx0fE9XJ7PLVeh4Ox2oZKlu_3orFKPq0dWbeI6_5xo1SYTnG9Ma9eLStpzCIVaNI0UDOnNU322i_PfRvItjYzSuWwLHWg&__tn__=*NK-R)** ![📍]()LOCATION Cactus Club - Boulevard du Souverain 147 1160 Auderghem – Brussels

May roses started blooming so we will do our 11 km loop hike around the Coloma International Rose Garden this Sunday 🌹 Our meeting point is the Gaasbeek Ice cream Bar parking lot 🅿️ in Lennik. After the hike we can either have lunch in that same bar or just a drink or an ice cream 😉 🍦 See you on Sunday! Sandra 0497/243455

Dear beautiful people, This is going to be just a short walk in a very accessible park next to the Berchem station. Join us to move a bit and have a good chat. [https://www.komoot.com/tour/2705074084](https://www.komoot.com/tour/2705074084) **Whatsapp group**: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/BrlR1O98MTKLhciJSRNRlZ](https://chat.whatsapp.com/BrlR1O98MTKLhciJSRNRlZ) (only for members who have attended at least one event or after contacting the organizer) General information: *We wait for 5 minutes after the starting time if no one has announced they will be late. - If someone has informed us they will be late, we wait up to 15 minutes after the starting time. *The location of the group is shared in the WhatsApp group for approximately 45-50 minutes after the starting time for those arriving more than 15 minutes late. - To ensure everyone feels comfortable, and since some walking paths may not be dog-friendly, we kindly ask that you do not bring dogs or other pets. *Walks may be canceled due to forecasted heavy rain or temperatures above 30°C or below 5°C. A final decision will be made by 10 AM on the day of the walk. NOTE; The weather may be rainy little bit so please bring your raincoat and umbrella and of course your positive energy and smile 😊

* 42km loop from Parc du Cinquantenaire to [Parc de Tervuren](https://maps.app.goo.gl/rc6PPwXwFGhUfprTA) and return through the forest. * Coffee 10h30 \| leaving 11h00\. * Estimated moving time 2h45 not including lunch and some brief stops. * Lunch at the halfway point in Tervuren—bring 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/263938562?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

For more informations about all my classes, events, workshops and retreats https://www.thehappybody.be/contact \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🇬🇧 This event is also open to English speakers – explanations will be given in both French and English \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 📅 Date : 17 May @ 11.00 ( actual departure 11.15 - no waiting after that) 📍 Départ : Rue Scheutbosch corner wit Bld Louis Mettewie ([lien](https://maps.app.goo.gl/JfpKbFfK67DV85qE9)) 📍 Arrivée : Place St Lambert 🚶‍♂️ Distance : ± 9 km - NOT A LOOP ⏰ Durée : environ 3-4h (marche + Qigong) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 📲 Rejoignez aussi le groupe WhatsApp pour toutes les communications relatives a cet événement qui se feront via ce groupe. https://chat.whatsapp.com/LNUvsvoGrRyEkS4meiyrir?mode=gi_t My phone number: 0492 92 00 84 *** ### **🌱 Description** Rejoignez-nous pour la Sixième étape de notre grand cycle « Les 12 Balades Qigong – Promenade Verte de Bruxelles ». Chaque mois, nous parcourons un tronçon de la Promenade Verte en mêlant 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 à tous, afin de : * harmoniser la respiration, * libérer les tensions accumulées, * s’ancrer profondément dans la nature environnante. *** ### **🎒 Infos pratiques** * Activité ouverte à tous niveaux, aucune expérience en Qigong requise. * Vêtements confortables et adaptés à la météo. * Chaussures de marche conseillées (terrain parfois TREShumide). * Apporter une gourde d’eau. *** ### **🔗 Réservations** 📲 Inscription obligatoire via Meetup pour garantir une bonne organisation. Nombre de places limitées afin de garder un cadre convivial et respectueux. *** ✨ A quiet, almost hidden corner where Brussels slows down. The Molenbeek Valley offers a mix of small paths, open spaces, and slightly wild areas — 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, you’ll be introduced to Qigong — 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 it’s 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 — often leaving with a clearer mind and a lighter, more grounded feeling.

**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.

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!

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!