Walking Tours

**Bukit Segenting Lighthouse Leisure Hike + Segenting 石文定 & Lover Bridge 情人桥** **📅 16 May 2026 (Sat)** **📲 INTERESTED? WhatsApp 94884478 (Wilfred) RSVP via Meetup** [https://www.meetup.com/lets-go-travelling-hiking/events/314581222/](https://www.meetup.com/lets-go-travelling-hiking/events/314581222/) **Attractions/Things To Do:** **❈Bukit Segenting Lighthouse Seaview "Beginner Leisure Hike"** A Coastal Gem: Bukit Segenting Lighthouse stands as a guiding beacon for ships navigating the Malacca Strait. Generally considered an easy hike to the peak, the reward is a breathtaking sea view that stretches as far as the eye can see. **❈ Segenting 石文丁 fishing village** Kampong Segenting is a famous place for people to go when visiting Batu Pahat. This little village is known for two things: fishing and a Chinese Temple. **❈Lovers Bridge (情人桥)** The bridge became known as The Lovers’ Bridge after becoming a date-place for lovers who come for a stroll around sunset. The place is indeed a breath-taking spot for beautiful sunset at the same time offering a nostalgic ambience for you photograph. **💰 EVENT DETAILS:** **👥$130/person (1-2 pax)** **$120/person (3 pax or more)** **💳 PAYMENT : PayNow: $xxx/person** **UEN: 201727764C Wilfred Go Travelling & Hiking Pte Ltd** **OR** **Bank Transfer (DBS Current): 0029069789** **📩 After payment, WhatsApp 94884478 screenshot of receipt** **TA License No 03066** **TA NAME: WILFRED GO TRAVELLING & HIKING PTE LTD** **INCLUDE:** \* 1 Event Host \* Mountain Guide/s \* Transportation Van < 14 person Bus >15 person \* Group Lunch is included if group-size 10 or more **EXCLUDE:** -Personal Insurance -Items Not Mentioned In Itinerary **To Connect With Us:** **1\. Telegram Channel: [https://t.me/wilfredtravelsg](https://t.me/wilfredtravelsg)** **2\. Whatapps Channel:** **[https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaJmIsU9mrGTPqpect3l](https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaJmIsU9mrGTPqpect3l)** **3\. Facebook: [https://www.facebook.com/events/calendar](https://www.facebook.com/events/calendar)** **Suggested Itinerary:** **(Sat), (D)** 645am-Marsiling MRT Station 650am-Depart to Woodland Custom 730am–JB Custom 815am-Breakfast/Packed Lunch (Own Cost) 845am-Depart to Batu Pahat 1030am –Briefing & start hike 11am - CP1 Pondok Pulau Sialu 1130am - CP 2 Rock Wall 12pm - CP 3 Kg Segenting 1230pm - CP 4 Lighthouse 1pm - Gather back Meeting Point 130pm-Washup/Cleanup 2pm- Seafood Lunch 3pm-Segenting Fishing Village Shopping 4pm- Lovers Bridge 5pm-Depart JB 7pm-JB Custom 8pm-Marsiling MRT **(E) Disclaimer, Indemnity and Terms of Participation:** The participant acknowledges that this is an adventure trip. The itinerary serves as a guide only and changes may be required. All participants are strongly advised to have travel insurance. The participant agrees to assume all risks and indemnifies the organizers against all claims, disputes.

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

http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/5/8/7/600_434874663.jpeg Check out http://www.A2Movements.com for detailed info! [Parkour Training] Tuesday 7pm at Free Runner Lodge Bring water, wear sporty attire (long pants & covered shoes + rubber sole and the waiver form (can be found on website)

**\*If interested, please whatsapp** [wa.me/+6588842635](wa.me/+6588842635) **or +65 8884 2635! Sign-ups *are only confirmed after contacting us and joining the WA group! \**** Gunung Datuk is a good **challenging (depends on who you ask)** starting hike and introduction to trekking for beginners or first-timers who wish to know **what hiking really entails!** It is also one of the more fun short-day hikes for the adventurous! Mount Datuk (885m) is an extremely popular 1-day beginner hike located in Malaysia, about an hour away from Malacca. The hike takes an average of 2.5h up and 2.5h down. It is not too long, yet challenging and strenuous enough for a half-day hike. There are some very steep parts and the trek requires using your hands. Additionally, there are minor rope sections and ladders near the summit. This trek can be **challenging for beginners** so be prepared for a fun adventurous experience. At the summit, there is a nice view of the surroundings and we can take a break on the rocks and enjoy the wind before descending! After that, the plan is to hunt for some good food in Malacca! If we end earlier, there will be more time for free and easy along Jonker street. Of course within the group, there will be people of various speeds. Those faster can have more time at the summit and wash up first. Please be patient for the slower ones! The intention of the trip is to introduce newbies who haven't tried trekking before so please be patient and welcoming! It is important to be open-minded and sporting enough to embrace challenges! There are mosquitoes and leeches abound =) **Do note it is NOT a walk in the park** To confirm, do RSVP and send me a whatsapp message! A Whatsapp group will be set up. A minimum of **12 pax** is needed for this trip to go ahead. Your place is only confirmed once payment is made. Here is the estimated itinerary: Saturday 12.00am – Meet Marsiling MRT, depart for Datuk 4.00am – Stop by for breakfast 5.00am – Start trek at with headlights 7.30am – Summit 11.00am- Reach back and wash up 1.00pm – Head to Malacca for food 4.00pm – Depart back to Singapore 9-12pm – Reach back Marsiling MRT (depends on traffic) Price: **120SGD per pax** Price includes: 2-ways Transport LMT Trek Leader Local Guides + Necessary Park Permits and Fees LMT Info-Kit Price excludes: Personal Travel Insurance All Personal expenses/Meals/Activities in Malacca Visa Application (if any) Everything else This event is organized by LITTLE MONSTERS TRAVEL PTE LTD Travel Agent Licence No: 03117 Contact : +65 88842635 Email: info@littlemonsterstravel.net Some additional questions: 1. How long is the ride to Mount Datuk A: It takes only around 3-4h from Singapore - Datuk/Malacca. 2. The journey to Datuk only takes 3 hours, why do we set off so early? A: This is so that we can save money on accommodation/driver cost/taxi to MRT station. This also means there is a lack of sleep, so try to sleep in the vehicle! Bring a travel pillow! 3. Are there shower or toilet facilities at the park? A: Very basic shower and toilet facilities. Please bring a change of clothes and shower when you are down from Datuk. No smelly people in the vehicle! 4. Do I get to see the sunrise at the top? A: Maybe. Depends on how comfortable everyone is with walking with headlights. 5. I am totally new to hiking, what should I bring/wear? Is there training? A: I will set up a WhatsApp group for questions and provide some info-kit to prepare. Most important is being open =) 6. How fit do I have to be? I am afraid of being the slowest/burden to the group. A: You would need basic endurance and be open-minded, embrace the challenge of using your hands and going up and down rocks or steep terrain. Many people have done Datuk, of various fitness, the group will move at a slower pace to help build that confidence. 7. What happens if it rains! A: If it is a light drizzle, we would continue. Usually we'll continue, or wait until the heavy rain stops. If it rains, it'll be slippery so go slow!

http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/5/8/7/600_434874663.jpeg Bring water, wear sporty attire (long pants & covered shoes + rubber sole and the waiver form (can be found on website)

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

👣 Walk & Talk SG – Labrador Park Sunset Walk Join us for a relaxed evening walk as we explore the scenic coastal trails around Labrador Nature Reserve. Expect sea views, greenery, easy conversations, and a good way to unwind after the week. This route is beginner-friendly and will be at a comfortable pace with short breaks along the way. 📅 Date: 16/5/26 ⏰ Time: 6:00pm 📍 Meeting Point: HarbourFront MRT Station Exit B 🏁 Ending Point: Labrador Park MRT Station Route HarbourFront → Boardwalk → Berlayer Creek → Labrador Park trails → Labrador Park MRT What to expect Casual social walk Around 1.5–2 hours Easy pace, beginner friendly Nice sunset and waterfront views Friendly conversations and meeting new people Most people come alone, so don’t worry if it’s your first time joining 🙂 Feel free to join our WhatsApp group for faster updates during the event: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/LUkkqwTaePM32HVrMsGtzy?mode=gi_t](https://chat.whatsapp.com/LUkkqwTaePM32HVrMsGtzy?mode=gi_t)

Take a walk with us around **Bukit Timah Nature Reserve**. We will also walk through **Rifle Range Nature Park** and **Dairy Farm Nature Park**. This is not a leisure walk. Meeting Point : Beauty World MRT, Exit A, street level Meeting Time : 8:30 am End Point : near Beauty World MRT Est. End Time : 12:00 pm Things to bring: \- Umbrellas \- Sun protection \(e\.g\. sunblock\) \- Water \- Snacks \- Walking shoes

Join us as we explore some bookshops around Bras Basah and Bugis! Did you know that you can use your SG Culture pass credits to buy SG Lit books? See details here: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YCvoJ846bb4&t=2s](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YCvoJ846bb4&t=2s) We will visit Kinokuniya at Raffles City, the Bras Basah Complex (which is full of bookshops!), the National Library, the Kinokuniya at Bugis, and end with an optional dinner and chat. Come browse, buy, or just chat and meet some new people! **Meeting Point**: Books Kinokuniya at Raffles City. **Address:** 252 N Bridge Rd, #03-22/23, Singapore 17910311 **Meeting Time**: 5.30 pm **Tentative Plan:** 30 mins of free and easy at each of these locations: Kino at Raffles City and BrasBasah Complex. Brief stops at National Library and maybe the Kino at Bugis. **Late Comers:** Catch up using the Live Locator in the Telegram Channel\*. **Total walking distance**: About 1.5 km **Total exploration time:** about 2hrs **Optional Dinner and Chat**: about 1hr at some budget friendly place nearby. **\*Telegram Channel:** Join [Walk, Chat, Explore SG](https://t.me/+rIuiiEM9j6oyNzI1) https://t.me/+rIuiiEM9j6oyNzI1 **for updates. The Live Locator will be posted there.**

Ready for a refreshing morning outdoors? 🌿☀️ Join us for our **Fun Walk: Pasir Ris Coast & Mangrove Trail** — a light, feel-good walk by the sea, surrounded by nature and great company. ✨ Easy-paced walk (all fitness levels welcome) ✨ Connect, recharge, and move your body ✨ Perfect for friends & family ✨ Yummy brunch together after walk Come breathe, move, and reset with us 💚 📍 Pasir Ris MRT exit B 🕒 16 May (Sat) 8am Reserve your spot here! Let’s walk, talk, and enjoy the journey together!

Hey Villagers, let's do some workouts (slopes, steps & stairs) together! **Starting Point: Telok Blangah MRT Station, Exit A street level** Start Time: **8:30am** Ending Point: Harbourfront MRT Station Target to end between 11 - 11:30am Estimated distance: Approx 7km If you are beginner and training for overseas hiking, please carry a day bag with at least 3 to 5kg. **Items to bring:** \- Wear comfortable walking shoes \- Sufficient water \- Hat / Cap \- Sunglasses \- Raincoat / Umbrella \- Snacks for refuel **Additional Notes:** \- Do have some breakfast before the walk\. \- There will be water refill point and toilet along the way\. \- In case of bad weather\, any change of plans will be announced on the morning of the walk\. \- We will not be able to wait for late\-comers\. \- Participants can leave anytime during the walk\, but please do inform event host\. \- Do update your RSVP at least 24 hours in advance if you can’t make it anymore so that people on the waiting list can attend\. \- The 'Waitlist' may not go in order as we reserve the right to prioritise the spots for our trip participants who are training for our upcoming treks\. Thank you for your understanding\! Join us on social media to keep updated with our latest adventures! [https://bit.ly/m/Adventures-Unlimited](https://bit.ly/m/Adventures-Unlimited)

Join me for a small, mindful photography walk in nature. (**NOTE Time is 9:00 AM EST(Meetup is having technical Issue))** This is a slow, intentional gathering — not focused on fitness or perfect photography — but on simply pausing, observing, and being present. We’ll walk at a gentle pace, with moments of quiet, and a few light prompts to help you notice details you might normally miss. 📷 You don’t need any photography experience — a phone camera is enough. This is also not a business networking event. It’s a calm space to connect with nature and, if it feels natural, with like-minded people. 🌿 What to expect: • A slow-paced, relaxed walk • Moments of silence and observation • Simple reflection prompts 📍 Location: [ Red Trabue Nature Preserve] ⏱ Duration: \~90 minutes

[The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations. If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!). **HOW IT WORKS** **Step 1: Bring a topic** Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event. **Step 2: Circle up & share** We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds. **Step 3: Walk, talk & float** We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!" **Step 4: Feel more alive** Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times. *For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)* **HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC** A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about. Recent topics include: * "What are you passionate about right now?" * "What makes a good friend?" * "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?" * "How do you want to be remembered?" * "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?" Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter. **WHAT TO EXPECT** This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.* But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here. **FAQ** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space. * Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know. * Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **LOGISTICS** * If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs. * There's a restroom along the route at [Tuttle Park Community Center](https://maps.app.goo.gl/KTZJgLE1CrrbRNmJ7), which is about two‑thirds of the way from [Clinton-Como Park](https://maps.app.goo.gl/z8Cx8evwLiWundMe8) to our [turnback point](https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZXk7qUVszLQ8EJxHA). * Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details. * If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋 **IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...** [The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up. * This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).

Let’s meet and wander the galleries! General admission on Sundays is free.

**Not everyone will come. That is exactly why you should.** **Two for Tuesdays** is for the people who actually want to get out and do something instead of just talking about it. We’re kicking off the night with a one-hour social walk before Duckpin Social. **Expect a laid-back** But an Intentional 1 hour walk (2-3 miles), good people, and a better way to spend your Tuesday than staying home and doing the same thing you always do. **If the weather does not cooperate, we’ll move indoors.** **This is a paid event.** A small contribution helps keeps events sustainable and ensures those **who RSVP actually show up.** Payment **Link Found in comments** or you can pay on Venmo, Paypal, @WiseUnlimitedLLC or Cashapp $WiseUnlimitedLLC. Walk RSVP **$2** Walk / DuckPin Social **$5** Walk / DuckPin Social + 1 game of duckpin **$12** Please be sure **to Put Event and Event Date** in the note when paying RSVP Fee

**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.