Trails

**Wind down and let go!** Join us for a rejuvenating **FREE** Moonlight Stretch and Relaxing Yoga session at the peaceful **Eternal Wellness Yoga Studio**. This is your perfect opportunity to **transform** the end of your day from stressed and busy to calm, relaxed, and restored. Book your session now: [WhatsApp Us](https://wa.me/971543837625) *Note: MONDAY WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY \- ONLY LADIES \| TUESDAY THURSDAY & SATURDAY \- MEN ALSO WELCOME* **[1st Session will be FREE]**

**Today we’re meeting for a squash session. If you enjoy squash, fitness, and meeting new people, feel free to join us. All levels are welcome. Just bring your sportswear and good energy!**

**This session is designed for intermediate-advanced players who enjoy competitive games with strong opponents and build a sense of community.** ✅ 2 hours of badminton ✅ All levels are welcomed ✅ Feather shuttles included ✅ Professional courts at Danube Sports World ✅ Great games, great people, minimal waiting time **Fee: AED 50** *** **How to Confirm Your Spot** **Step 1:** RSVP on Meetup **Step 2:** Pay immediately via Careem Pay/Bank Transfer 📲 0509001406 [WAQSI] **Your spot is only confirmed after payment.** If payment is not received, your slot may be given to someone on the wait-list. *** **Cancellation Policy** Cancel **12+ hours before event** → No charge Cancel **less than 12 hours before event** → Full payment required (this applies even if you sign up within 12hrs of the game time) **No-show** → Full payment required. *** **New Players** WhatsApp after RSVP: 0509001406 [https://wa.me/971509001406](https://wa.me/971509001406) **🎯 Welcome to Badminton Lovers Dubai!** **The World's Highest-rated badminton community** from the heart of Dubai \(A perfect ⭐ 5 star rated ★ \| 6000\+ reviews\) – where fun\, fitness\, and friendship come together on court\! Whether you’re a **beginner eager to learn** or an **advanced player seeking competitive rallies**, you’ll enjoy: ✔ 2 hours of structured, mix-and-match doubles games ✔ Professional world-class courts at **Danube Sports World** ✔ A friendly, welcoming community of players of all levels *** **⭐ Why Join Us?** ✔ Dubai’s **#1 rated sports & social group** ✔ Play with 5-6 players per court → **minimum waiting time** ✔ Separate courts for **advanced competitive matches** ✔ Beginner-friendly – guidance & support provided ✔ **Feather shuttles included** + limited rackets (first-come, first-serve) ✔ Exclusive **discounts at leading sports stores in Dubai** ✔ Social, fun, and a great way to meet new friends *** **📸 Social Media Policy** * Photos/videos may be used to promote badminton & our community **👥 Guest Policy** * Guests must be registered with **name & level** * RSVP holder is responsible for guest payment & cancellations *** **🏸 Safety Guidelines & Event Rules** To ensure a safe, enjoyable, and well-organised experience for everyone, all participants are required to read and follow the guidelines below: *** **1️⃣ Personal Responsibility** * All players participate **at their own risk**. * Please ensure you are **physically fit and medically able** to play badminton before joining the session. * Warm up properly and play within your personal limits. *** **2️⃣ On-Court Safety** * Always be aware of **other players**, shuttle direction, and adjacent courts. * Avoid running into other courts or behind players during active rallies. * Stop play immediately if a shuttle or player enters your court unexpectedly. * Wear **appropriate non-marking sports shoes** to prevent slips and injuries. *** **3️⃣ Equipment & Attire** * Use suitable badminton rackets and equipment in good condition. * Badminton Lovers Dubai is **not responsible** for any damage to personal equipment. *** **4️⃣ Personal Belongings** * Players are fully responsible for their **own belongings**. **The organisers are not liable** for any loss, theft, or damage to personal property. *** **5 Liability Disclaimer** By attending this event, you acknowledge and agree that: * You voluntarily assume all risks associated with playing badminton. * **Badminton Lovers Dubai, its organisers, hosts, and volunteers are released from any liability**, claims, demands, or causes of action related to personal injury, loss, damage, or theft of belongings.

JOIN US FOR LEARNING AND GROWING IN BADMINTON SKILLS WITH ADVANCED PLAYERS AND PROFESSIONAL PLAYERS. Contact - 0563749353 Fees : Court + Shuttle Cost + Training Transportation Support is available.

## Details **This session is for Elite Players only who enjoy competitive games with strong opponents and also play singles games.** ✅ 2 hours of badminton ✅ Elite (Advanced+) levels only ✅ Feather shuttles included ✅ Professional courts at Springdales School ✅ Great games, great people, minimal waiting time **Fee: AED 55** \*\*\* **How to Confirm Your Spot** **Step 1:** RSVP on Meetup **Step 2:** Pay immediately via Careem Pay/Bank Transfer 📲 0555236521 [Rauf] 📲 0509001406 [Waqsi] **Your spot is only confirmed after payment.** If payment is not received, your slot may be given to someone on the wait-list. \*\*\* **Cancellation Policy** Cancel **12+ hours before event** → No charge Cancel **less than 12 hours before event** → Full payment required (this applies even if you sign up within 12hrs of the game time) **No-show** → Full payment required. \*\*\* **New Players** WhatsApp after RSVP: 📲 0555236521 [Rauf] 📲 0509001406 [Waqsi] [https://wa.me/971509001406](https://wa.me/971509001406) **🎯 Welcome to Badminton Lovers Dubai!** **The World's Highest-rated badminton community** from the heart of Dubai \(A perfect ⭐ 5 star rated ★ \| 6000\+ reviews\) – where fun\, fitness\, and friendship come together on court\! Whether you’re a **beginner eager to learn** or an **advanced player seeking competitive rallies**, you’ll enjoy: ✔ 2 hours of structured, mix-and-match doubles games ✔ Professional world-class courts ✔ A friendly, welcoming community of players of all levels \*\*\* **⭐ Why Join Us?** ✔ Dubai’s **#1 rated sports & social group** ✔ Play with 5-6 players per court → **minimum waiting time** ✔ Separate courts for **advanced competitive matches** ✔ Beginner-friendly – guidance & support provided ✔ **Feather shuttles included** + limited rackets (first-come, first-serve) ✔ Exclusive **discounts at leading sports stores in Dubai** ✔ Social, fun, and a great way to meet new friends \*\*\* **📸 Social Media Policy** * Photos/videos may be used to promote badminton & our community **👥 Guest Policy** * Guests must be registered with **name & level** * RSVP holder is responsible for guest payment & cancellations \*\*\* **🏸 Safety Guidelines & Event Rules** To ensure a safe, enjoyable, and well-organised experience for everyone, all participants are required to read and follow the guidelines below: \*\*\* **1️⃣ Personal Responsibility** * All players participate **at their own risk**. * Please ensure you are **physically fit and medically able** to play badminton before joining the session. * Warm up properly and play within your personal limits. \*\*\* **2️⃣ On-Court Safety** * Always be aware of **other players**, shuttle direction, and adjacent courts. * Avoid running into other courts or behind players during active rallies. * Stop play immediately if a shuttle or player enters your court unexpectedly. * Wear **appropriate non-marking sports shoes** to prevent slips and injuries. \*\*\* **3️⃣ Equipment & Attire** * Use suitable badminton rackets and equipment in good condition. * Badminton Lovers Dubai is **not responsible** for any damage to personal equipment. \*\*\* **4️⃣ Personal Belongings** * Players are fully responsible for their **own belongings**. **The organisers are not liable** for any loss, theft, or damage to personal property. \*\*\* **5 Liability Disclaimer** By attending this event, you acknowledge and agree that: * You voluntarily assume all risks associated with playing badminton. * **Badminton Lovers Dubai, its organisers, hosts, and volunteers are released from any liability**, claims, demands, or causes of action related to personal injury, loss, damage, or theft of belongings.

**New participants are required to contact WhatsApp at 0501497147 before signing up for the event to confirm their slot.** Join us for an exciting Doubles Badminton Night at **Cleopatra Sports Al Quoz (Springdale School).** Whether you are a seasoned player or new to the game, this event is perfect for everyone looking to have a great time on the court. Meet fellow badminton enthusiasts, improve your skills, and enjoy some friendly competition in a social and welcoming environment. P**lying every Monday at 8-10 pm Springdale School Al quoz.** **Cost will be AED 40/- Per person including court rent , premium feather** **shuttle and average 8 games will get every plyers.** **New plyers must confirm your slots through WhatsApp ( Rensin +971 501497147)** **Note: No cancellation on game day and full payment is applicable if any cancellation on game day** **Join WhatsApp Group ; https://chat.whatsapp.com/GUlBTloYtkrGVLb2ljK1ZV** This event is ideal for those who enjoy social sports, staying active, and connecting with like-minded individuals. Whether you are a singles or doubles player, come and experience a fun-filled evening of healthy living through exercise and sports. Don't miss out on this opportunity to mingle with new friends, network, and have a blast playing indoor badminton. Let's make this a memorable night of sports, recreation, and social bonding!

Looking to enhance your badminton skills? Join our ladies-only coaching sessions for ages 14 and up! Whether you're a beginner or more experienced, all skill levels are welcome. Cost: 150 AED for 4 sessions. Don’t miss this opportunity to improve your game and meet fellow badminton enthusiasts follows us @Nisaafitness Contact Salma 0568184119

**Basketball training and coaching for beginners and intermediate.** Training and coaching adults basketball. Beginners and intermediate. Whats app +971568723607. S-Basketball. Тренировки по баскетболу в Дубай. Начинающие и опытные. Запись через ватс ап +971568723607 #basketball #dubai #баскетбол #дубай

**🚀 Elevate Your Influence – Exclusive Networking for Speakers, Authors & Trainers!** Are you ready to **network UP** and connect with high-caliber experts who can open doors to new opportunities? This isn't just another networking event—it's a **curated gathering of like-minded professionals** where **every connection counts.** 🔹 **Expand Your Knowledge** – Exchange insights with top speakers, authors, and trainers. 🔹 **Unlock New Business Opportunities** – Collaborate, share ideas, and discover potential partnerships. 🔹 **Boost Your Referrals & Visibility** – Build relationships with industry peers who can recommend and elevate you. What makes this event different? **Limited attendance** ensures **you meet everyone**, eliminating wasted time and maximizing real results. No missed connections—just **powerful conversations that matter.** 📅 **Secure Your [Spot Now](https://www.strategicbusinessconnect.com/networking-opportunities) – Spaces Are Limited!** Let’s build powerful connections and grow together. * Get and give advice * Build collaborations * Build your contact base * Meet clients and suppliers [Book HERE](https://www.strategicbusinessconnect.com/networking-opportunities) In our previous sessions, some of our attendees shared why they love SBC LIVE Super Connect: [Neil Hamp Adams](https://youtube.com/shorts/BAw4KYqLbag?feature=share) [Abhishek Chatterjee](https://youtube.com/shorts/BAw4KYqLbag?feature=share) [Dina Chautan](https://youtube.com/shorts/Np7KR6RRdls?feature=share) [Mandy Priestly](https://youtube.com/shorts/Ls99W3Zep74?feature=share) [Yujin Koola](https://www.youtube.com/shorts/_6pi1mIJZFY) There is a fee for this event because we find it attracts more motivated and successful type business owners, and let's face it, we all want to network up and not down! Only 195aed +VAT There is no entrance on the door because we prepare in advance to maximise the effect and send tips. If you are an SBC VIP remember to apply your discount code Details and [book your place ](https://www.strategicbusinessconnect.com/networking-opportunities)

Imagine a place so beautiful that **conquerors, instead of burning it, bankrupted themselves building bigger domes** and taller minarets just to keep up. Uzbekistan is the Silk Road’s ultimate masterpiece of living legends: two immortal cities, one breathless whirlwind of domes and minarets, and enough beauty to quietly wreck your standards. [https://vimeo.com/215827711](https://vimeo.com/215827711) The Silk Road wasn’t a road, **it was the internet of the medieval world.** Ideas, gunpowder, paper, religions, and the best spices you’ve ever tasted all flowed through these dusty plains. Samarkand and Bukhara sat at the crossroads, grew obscenely rich, and spent every penny on turquoise tiles and gold leaf. The result? Architecture so breathtaking that six centuries later your phone still runs out of storage before your eyes do. **Samarkand first:** drop your bag and stand in Registan Square as the morning light hits the turquoise tiles for the first time. Three madrassas stare each other down across the sand like rival rappers, their façades exploding in cobalt, gold, and emerald. This was Tamerlane’s capital, the man who conquered half the known world and then commissioned buildings so perfect that the Taj Mahal is basically fan fiction. Gur-e-Amir, his mausoleum, glows under a ribbed turquoise dome that makes the sky look underdressed. Bibi-Khanym Mosque is so absurdly huge that **Timur executed the first set of architects for not going large enough**; the second team clearly got the memo. Then board the train to Bukhara, a city that feels like someone pressed pause on the 15th century. One hundred and forty monuments in a maze of caramel-coloured walls. The Kalyan **Minaret is so elegant that Genghis Khan, not exactly known for restraint, looked up and simply said “leave it.”** Lyabi-Khauz plaza at dusk is the kind of scene you thought only existed in movies: tea houses reflected in still water, mulberry trees older than most countries, and the call to prayer bouncing off ancient brick. Uzbek people have hospitality hardwired. Strangers invite you for tea, grandmothers stuff bread into your hands, and every second person wants to take a selfie with the foreigner who finally showed up. The Soviet chapter left concrete blocks on the outskirts, but the historic cores remain untouched, lovingly restored, and proudly lived in. **Weekend is short for a country this deep, but it’s enough to fall in love.** You’ll leave with the quiet realization that some places on Earth are so beautiful they almost feel unfair. **Uzbekistan doesn’t need filters. It just needs you for one weekend**. **Let's go!** **Day 1 // Friday** Meet at Dubai Terminal 2 at 21:30 hrs for a direct flight to Samarkand departing at 23:10. Land in the heart of the Silk Road. **Day 2 // Saturday :: Bukhara** Morning departure to Bukhara by bullet train or drive (subject to train tickets availability) and start discovering of city treasures: * Lyabi-Hauz Ensemble – the serene square with its pond, mulberry trees and surrounding madrassas. * Mausoleum of Ismail Samani – a 10th-century masterpiece of brick architecture. * Ark Citadel – the ancient fortress and seat of power for centuries. * Bolo-Hauz Mosque – famous for its beautifully painted wooden columns. * Poi-Kalyan Complex – majestic Kalyan Minaret, grand mosque and the active Miri-Arab Madrassah. Dinner and train back to Samarkand. Overnight in the historic center. **Day 3 // Sunday :: Samarkand** After breakfast we head straight into the wonders of Tamerlane’s capital: * Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum – resting place of Timur and his dynasty, crowned by the iconic ribbed turquoise dome. * Registan Square – the breathtaking ensemble of three grand madrassas, the undisputed jewel of Samarkand. After lunch: * Bibi-Khanym Mosque – once the largest mosque in the Islamic world, a true testament to 14th-century ambition. * Shahi-Zinda Necropolis – the stunning “Avenue of Mausoleums” lined with glittering blue-tiled tombs from the 11th–15th centuries. Free time at lively Siab Bazaar: taste freshly baked nan bread, stock up on saffron and dried fruits, and browse silk embroidery and ceramics. Optional: unwind in a traditional hammam. Before we say goodbye to Samarkand we will visit **Registan Square at night for the famous light show.** Late dinner, transfer to the airport for the return flight. Landing in Dubai Monday at 07:00. **Duration:** Weekend only! **Activities:** Sightseeing and immersion into unheard history. **Accommodation & meals:** included - 4\* hotels (double sharing rooms), local foods. 5\* hotel option available at extra cost. **Cost:** **AED 3490 incl. flights** **until APR 15th.** Past this date cost will change. **Single accommodation:** 360 AED extra. **Specifically excluded:** Any cost related to visas, entry fees, visit in Hamam, extra water, coffee etc. **Visas:** **UAE residents** with 3 months validity of residence visa **are eligible for free entry.** More info: [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Uzbekistan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Uzbekistan) *It is sole responsibility of trip participant to secure admission to country of destination.* See yah in Samarkand x Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 0504848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) / [info@trekkup.com](info@trekkup.com) [Find all trekkups at linktr.ee/trekkup](https://linktr.ee/trekkup)

Sip & Paint Fridays in Dubai | Portræt Soirée Portræt Soirée Fridays is a relaxed, social Sip & Paint night set on the stunning terrace at Vida Emirates Hills, right by the pool. Every Friday at 7 PM, enjoy a unique art experience with live music, delicious bites, and all art materials provided. This isn’t a formal class — it’s a fun, social, creative evening where you can unwind, connect with others, and explore a new art theme every week. We mix it up with different formats, including games, challenges, and interactive art experiences, so no two Fridays are the same! 🎨 What’s included • All art materials • Guided but flexible portrait & creative art sessions • Delicious bites to enjoy during the session • Live music on the terrace • Interactive art games and weekly themes 🥂 Who it’s for • Beginners and experienced creatives alike • Anyone looking for a fun, social Friday activity in Dubai • Couples, friends, or anyone wanting a creative night out 📍 Location & Time Where: Vida Emirates Hills, terrace by the pool When: Fridays at 7 PM Duration: ~2 hours 💳 Pricing & Booking Price: AED 275 per person Special pricing for groups of 2+ RSVP required - spots are limited to keep the experience intimate. Join us for a weekly night of creativity, laughter, and expression - every Friday is a new adventure at Portræt Soirée!

Join us for adventure in Socotra, place like no other, where the **Dragon Bloods sway and the blue waters spray**. **This time the flights are available from Jeddah, so short 3hrs flight from UAE is now required to reach the departure point.** Lying in turquoise seas between Arabia and Africa hundreds of kilometers off the coast of Yemen is one of the world’s most untouched archipelagos, the Galapagos of the Indian Ocean, a treasure trove of biodiversity found nowhere else on Earth! From the umbrella-like Dragon Blood trees to the freshwater crabs scurrying across white sandy beaches, even the small population going about their lives unaffected by the world around them, you’ll think you’ve discovered a lost world on another planet. Used since antiquity as a medicinal cure-all, the crimson-red resin of the Dragon Blood tree earned its name through legends of battles between dragons and elephants and withstood millennia on this island paradise since the dawn of humankind. Recognized for its strange appearance, like an upside-down umbrella, it’s found only on Socotra and cannot survive anywhere else on Earth. Besides the Dragon Blood tree, Socotra is home to more than 300 species of flora and fauna endemic to the island, from tiny Socotri scorpions and terrestrial reptiles to countless birds, ghost crabs, bats, and chunky, pink-flowered bottle trees, the entire island is a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site! Life evolves on Socotra uninterrupted from the modern world, before the airport was built in 1999, the only way to see the island was on a cargo ship! When such paradise is in our own neighborhood, making extended weekend possible to a place where such beauty is not long for this world to the Island of Happiness. **Let's go!!** **Day 1 :: Qalansiya / Detwah Lagoon / Shuab Beach** After arrival and immigration clearance we kick start our expedition with heading westbound. Our first stop is Qalansiya, a traditional fishing village. From here, we will take a boat to Shuab Beach, where we might see spinner dolphins and beautiful rock formations. At Shuab, you can swim, relax, and explore the white sand with rock formations and crystal clear water. After returning to Qalansiya, we head to Detwah Lagoon, a protected area known for its amazing scenery. You can also swim in the lagoon or just relax on the beach. Dinner and overnight at Detwah campsite. **Day 2 :: Dixsam Plateau / Derhur Canyon / Fermhin Forest** After breakfast, we will drive towards Dixsam Plateau via Shebahon viewpoint, at elevation of 700m, for the first views of the famous Dragon’s Blood trees. These umbrella-shaped species are the symbol of Socotra, and their red sap, called “Dragon’s Blood” is used for medicine and cosmetics. We will continue into Derhur Canyon, lined with palm trees, where we will swim in clear natural pools. Next is **Fermhin Forest, known for the largest concentration of Dragon’s Blood trees.** Dinner and overnight at Fermhin Forest campsite. **Day 3 :: Aomq Beach / Dagub Cave / Hayf and Zahaq Dunes** Wake up early to enjoy serene walk in Fermhin Forest before breakfast. Today we head to the southern coast of Socotra, where to see the turquoise-blue Indian Ocean and endless white sand beaches. In the evening, we will visit the Hayf and Zahaq sand dunes, beautiful and peaceful spots perfect for photos, especially at sunset. Time allows, we will visit Dagub Cave. Inside the cave you will find stalactites, stalagmites, and a small stream of fresh water, a rare sight on the dry south coast. Lunch, dinner, and overnight at Aomq campsite. **Day 4 :: Wadi Defarhu / Dihamri** Today we will travel from the south to the north of the island, crossing Wadi Defarhu. Along the way, we will cross the traditional villages, date palms, freshwater pools, and desert rose trees on the canyon walls. After lunch, we will visit the Dihamri Marine Protected Area, which has one of the richest coral reefs in Socotra with 70 endemic coral species. Dinner and overnight at Dihamri campsite. **Day 5 :: Homhil & Wadi Kalisan** After breakfast at camp, we’ll pack up and drive to Wadi Shafa and start our trek up to the Homhil protected area with more fabulous sceneries, you’ll think you’re in prehistoric times! The moderate ascent takes approximately 1.5 hours up the ravine. Once we reach the top, we will explore surrounding walking trails through the dragon blood and bottle trees. Some of the most spectacular views await while floating above the sea and mountains. After we’ve explored the area, we’ll descend back down the ravine and move onwards to Wadi Kalisan. We’ll take a short walk down the wadi and take a dip in smooth white stone pools before heading to our camp for the night in Delisha surrounded by stunning mountain views and Dragon Blood trees. **Day 6 :: Hoq Cave / Arher Beach and Freshwater Creek** After an early breakfast, we will drive to Terbak village to visit Hoq Cave, also known as Treasure Cave. Archaeologists found ancient Aramaic writings here dating back to 258 AD. We will hike about 1.5 hours to the cave entrance and spend about 1 hour inside exploring stalactites, stalagmites, and underground water pools. Then we will continue to Arher Beach, where white sand dunes meet the blue ocean. Next to Ras Erisel, the eastern tip of the island, where the Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean meet. Dinner and overnight camping at Arher Beach. **Day 07 // TBC** **Day 08 // Farewell Socotra** If you wake up early, you can take a final climb up the dune and bathe in the freshwater stream at Arher. After breakfast. we will leave for Socotra Airport. On the way, we will stop at a heritage and souvenir shop run by Socotri women, which helps support local families. Bye, bye Socotra! **Level of Difficulty:** Moderate with limited facilities ahead. **Activities:** Trekking/swimming/caving/camping. **Duration:** 7 days **Trip Start & End:** Direct flights from JEDDAH, SAUDI. **Accommodation & Meals:** Camping, all meals included. You'll need light sleeping bag; tents and mattresses provided. **Cost: AED 9,700 all incl. flights and visa, until APR 25th. Past deadline we do not guarantee availability or the cost.** **Flights:** JED – SCT 11:00-14:30 Report at check-in at 08:00AM SCT – JED 14:45 19:10 **Connections from Dubai** to Jeddah on Emirates, flydubai, Saudia, flynas starting at 1,100 AED. **Visa:** **Yemen** \- included in trip budget\. **Saudi** \- no visa for transit\, otherwise visa on arrival or e\-visa for UAE residents\. **Specifically Excluded:** Insurance - compulsory. See yah in Socotra x Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 050 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) / [docs@trekkup.com](docs@trekkup.com)

Join us for 2 loops of the 1.1 mile trail surrounding Civic Park In Reynoldsburg this Thursday (5/7) at 6:30 pm. This is a fully paved trail so no worries about mud after a rainy week. Just come and get some exercise while connecting with others.

Hi ladies. Let's hike the Edward Thomas, Spring Creek, and a little multi-purpose trail - approximately 4 miles. Please bring a water bottle as needed and appropriate shoes. Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area.

Hi ladies. We will meet in front of the Nature Center and head to the two Observation decks. We will then hike Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook and Sugarbush trails to get approximately four miles total distance. We will walk approximately a 18 minute mile pace. Please wear appropriate hiking shoes.

Hi ladies. Let's hike the Edward Thomas, Spring Creek, and a little multi-purpose trail - approximately 4 miles so please wear your shoe of choice. Please bring a water bottle as needed and appropriate shoes. Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area.

Hi ladies. Let's hike the edward thomas trail, lake trail , spring creek and a short walk on the multi purpose trail. This is one large loop . Wear your shoe of choice. Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area. 4.2 miles in length .

**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.