Trails

Join us for an exhilarating mountain hike designed to create lasting memories and forge new friendships! Register and get more details! No late confirmations **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** Experience the thrill of the outdoors, take in breathtaking views, and witness a stunning sunrise from the summit. **🌄 Hike to Amazing Views and Sunrise Magic** Set out in the early morning hours and embark on a guided hike through scenic trails that lead to the mountain’s peak. As dawn breaks, watch the first light paint the sky in hues of pink and gold, offering a spectacular sunrise panorama that will leave you in awe. **👫 Meet Fellow Adventurers** Connect with like-minded outdoor enthusiasts and build meaningful relationships with people who share your passion for adventure. Register and get more details! No late confirmations **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** Whether you're a seasoned hiker or new to the trails, this event is the perfect way to make new friends and enjoy shared experiences. **🍃 Experience More than Just a Hike:** Beyond the physical benefits of hiking, this event offers a rejuvenating escape from the daily grind. Reconnect with nature, clear your mind, and gain a fresh perspective as you trek through trails surrounded by the beauty of the mountains. Register and get more details! No late confirmations **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** Let the peaceful ambiance of the outdoors wash over you, leaving you feeling refreshed and inspired. **🌿 Fun and Camaraderie:** Bond with fellow participants as you navigate the trail, share stories, and enjoy moments of laughter and support. Celebrate your accomplishment at the summit with group photos, snacks, and a sense of collective achievement. Register and get more details! No late confirmations **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** **What to expect?** * Incredible Scenic Views * Refreshing Outdoor Experience * Opportunities to Network and Make Friends * Fun, Fitness, and Fresh Air **Hike Details:** * **Level**: Beginner to Beginner+ (8 KM distance) * **Trail**: Loop Donkey trail, Red,Green and black trails. *Don't miss out on this chance to be part of an adventure that will leave you inspired and energized.* **How to Join:** 1. RSVP on Meetup 2. **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** *Lace up your hiking boots, pack your essentials, and come along for a mountain hike that promises amazing views and a stunning sunrise.* *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Hiking 🥾

**🥾 Difficulty:** Beginner-Friendly Scenic loop · Gentle elevation · Great views · Suitable for ages 10+ **📍 Distance:** 5–6 km **⏱ Duration:** 2–3 Hours **🗺 Plan:** 45-minute drive from Dubai to the first meeting point, followed by a short 15-minute drive to the trailhead. The Hike starts at 5:00 PM. **Campers are welcome -** As the sun dips below the dunes, set up camp, breathe in the desert air, and let the evening unfold. **Preparation for Hike** **🎒 What to Bring** * 🧣 **Scarf** — Essential to protect against wind and blowing sand * 🕶️ **Sunglasses** — Must-have for the sandy conditions * 🔦 **Headlamp** — Mandatory. Mobile torch is not acceptable * 🧥 **Layers** — Wear full sleeves for protection against sun and sand * 💧 **Water** — Carry 1–2 litres plus energy drinks or juice to replenish salts * 👟 **Desert Shoes** — Proper footwear is essential for sandy terrain * 🍎 **Snacks** — Fruits, dry fruits, or energy bars to keep you fuelled * 🩹 **First Aid Kit** — A basic kit is a must **⛺ For Campers** * ⛺ Tent, sleeping bag, chairs & mats * 💧 Water, snacks & a meal to share * 🔦 Flashlight / lantern & power bank * 🗑️ Trash bags — keep the desert clean! **Transportation** * **🚗 Any car can reach the hike start point — self-drive recommended.** 1. 🙋**No car? Let the organizers know — We might be able to help you find a seat with someone else.** **Inclusions** * **✅ Lead guide, directions & support throughout the event including the hike.** **Exclusions** * **❌ Food & drinks — Self-catering event, bring your own.** * **❌ Gear & equipment — Bring your own.** **Disclaimer**: Standard AE disclaimer and terms of membership apply. Neither Adventure Emarat/Adventure Eagles nor any of its event leaders/members take any responsibility or indemnify the participants against any injury, loss or damage suffered by any participant during the event. Therefore, please assess the fitness & capability of yourself, your team & your vehicle before you join any AE event. Please understand and remember that YOU are the best person to safeguard your well-being and safety. Hence YOU have to take full responsibility for the same. Team Adventure Eagles

Southwest Kazakhstan, called **Mangystau, is a land of vast, wind-whipped deserts and stunning limestone mountains** that form the bottom of deep depression basins. The area boasts an unparalleled variety of desert landscapes and geological wonders, making it a hidden surprise of a **truly extraterrestrial character,** **in a remote Kazakh corner.** At first glance, it may appear as a remote desert wilderness, but take a closer look and you’ll see something more profound: a vast, **natural geometry curved by time**, offering a journey not just across space, but deep into Earth’s prehistoric past. **Here, the nature played an inspired architect** and created colorful canyons, peaks and towers, which are translated today into rainbow castles, yurt mountains or tiramisu valleys. The northern part of the peninsula is covered by fields of limestone concretions and fossils of ancient sea creatures. These fossils provide evidence of the region's connection to the prehistoric sea, housing remnants of fish, sponges, corals, and even whales. You are standing at the shores of Sarmatian Sea, remnants of the prehistoric Tethys Ocean, and the Paratethys, that 250 to 50 million years ago covered the Caspian and Black Seas, to the Aral Lake. **Mangystau is also known for its sacred places**, making it famous in the region. What sets the local mosques apart is that they don't resemble typical Muslim temples with domed roofs and minarets. Instead, their facades are predominantly shaped by nature, showing little evidence of human interference. Today, standing on the ancient seabed under a wide Kazakh sky, **it’s hard not to feel both humbled and awed**. Where forms has been sculpted into infinity, there is no need for sound. **Desert speaks directly to your soul, through its vast and timeless geometry.** [See the clip here](https://vimeo.com/1015662135?share=copy) **Let’s go!** **DAY 1 // Tuesday** Direct flight to Aktau. Arrival, immigration clearance and check-in to hotel. Rest of the evening at leisure. **Day 2 // Wednesday** We will kick start our 4WD expedition into wilderness with **Kapamsay Canyon** \- chalk oasis of white cliffs standing against the azure sky\. In fact it’s a bottom of a dry riverbed\, an amazing hideout with rare but resilient plants\. Further on we continue to **Shakpaktysai Canyon** where will visit first the underground mosque Shakpak-Ata. The underground mosque is carved into a chalky rock mountain. It is known that Sufis who once lived in this cave practiced healing rituals. They helped people who came here seeking a cure for their illnesses. To do this, the sick person was left in the cave overnight. It was believed that during the night, a benevolent spirit would visit the sick person and drive the illness away. Even today, people continue to come here with the hope of being healed. On our list of curiosities of the day, next one is **Valley of Balls** in Torysh. The stone formations of Torysh stretch for hundreds of kilometers on both sides of the hills, creating a unique landscape. Where the rock layers were broken vertically, long ridges made of stones of different sizes were formed. Where the layers were broken horizontally, the stones formed fields filled with round shapes that look like balls, eggs, mushrooms, UFOs, cylinders, nesting dolls, and even animals. Such unusual and imaginative stone fields can be found in the area of Torysh. We continue to **Sherkala rock**, which was once a fortress of the eldest son of Genghis Khan, Jochi. This legendary place was built in the Middle Ages, to secure the paths of Great Silk Way. “Sherkala” – by the translation from Turkmen language means “lion fortress” (“sher” – lion, “kala” – fortress). Time to wrap up and head to our camp for a night in yurts. **DAY 3 // Thursday** Today we are set to explore **Sor Tuzbair, salt flats desert** with chalky hills and limestone cliffs. After rain the salt flats transform into a reflective surface mirroring the sky and the nearby dazzling white cliffs. This sight will stun even those who are not easily impressed. Here you ll learn the names of belemnite and ammonite, while if you re lucky you may come across fossilized prehistoric shark teeth. First we head to **Airakty Mountains,** which look like a magical castle, with spires, towers, columns, and fortress-like walls. The main sights of the valley include mysterious grottos, unusual caves, and formations that resemble palaces with colonnades, temples with domes, and Gothic-style spires. A winding trail, formed by wild horses, leads up one of the mountains. From the top, there is a stunning viewing platform overlooking the distant Aktau Mountains and the fairy-tale castles of Airakty. Next, we’ll stop in **Shetpe village**, where we’ll visit a modern caravanserai and taste local food. From here we continue to **Tuzbair**, a breathtaking natural wonder. This salt flat is a place of pure beauty, defined by just two colors: the brilliant white of the salt and limestone, and the deep blue of the sky on clear days. Approaching Tuzbair from the west offers spectacular views, with three major viewpoints along the way. Today we sleep in **Bozzhira canyon**, where we set up our camp and spend a night under the stars. **DAY 4 // Friday** On the last day of our expedition, its time for well-deserved dessert in the desert! First Tiramisu layers start appearing at **Mt. Bokhty**, which in fact in Kazak means “a pie”. The road passes along the picturesque Ustyurt Plateau. Mount Bokty lies at the bottom of a dry salt flat, bordered on the north by the small hill of Golbanshe, through which a graded road leads to the Becket Ata Mosque. Bokty Mountain is remarkable for its changing appearance. From different angles, it looks completely different — from one side, it resembles a giant ship turned upside down, while from the south, it looks like a wide, multicolored pyramid stretching across the horizon. Further on, **Kyzylkup will not leave any doubts to tiramisu lovers!** Gentle layers continue their horizontal alignment as far as your eye can reach. A last stop at **Karagiye depression (-132 MUSL)** which is one of the deepest places in the world. Its time to head back to the city for farewell dinner and last overnight in the hotel. **DAY 5 // Departure** Its time to head to airport for our return back home. Bye, bye Mangystau! **Level:** Easy with limited facilities. **Activities:** off-roading, striking sightseeing, trekking, yurt and desert camping 2 nights. **Accommodation & meals:** Hotel (dbl sharing) and desert camping. Local meals included, except meals on transfers (in Aktau). **Cost: AED 2,850 excl.** **flights or 7270 AED incl. flights until MAY 20.** **Specifically excluded:** Visas, meals during transfers (in Aktau). **Visas:** cost not included in trip budget: **At the time of writing 60 nationalities are visa free:** EU, GCC, UK, USA, AUS Argentina, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Brazil, Chile, China, Colombia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Mexico, Philippines, Russia, Saudi Singapore, Turkey, Ukraine. Visa support available through third party. *It is sole responsibility of participant to secure entry to country of destination.* See yah at Mangystau x Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 050 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) // Find all trekkups at [linktr.ee/trekkup](https://linktr.ee/trekkup)

**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 Eid, we’re offering **the combo trip of your dreams** with this journey across two of Central Asia’s most beautiful and intriguing countries. **Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan** each offer many incredible sights, but **the** **loudest “wows” are usually heard by their pristine, high-altitude lakes,** ranging from deep blue to green to electric turquoise. So we’ve cooked up a trip which takes in the most stunning bodies of water in the region, sure to take your breath away – especially if you decide to take a dip! **Mysterious, mountainous Kyrgyzstan** awes visitors with its idyllic backdrops of green pastures, **alpine lakes and glaciers**, surrounded by dense forest and jagged mountain peaks. Exploring these untouched landscapes on foot and by horseback, traversing hills and valleys where nomads roam, it’s possible to witness a **traditional Kyrgyz way of life which continues as it has for centuries**. **Scenic vistas abound in the magnificent Tchu Valley**, in the northern part of the famed Tien Shan Mountains, a massive mountain range that runs throughout the ‘stans’ and all the way to China. This beautiful, forested river valley stretches more than 100 km from east to west, and is **home to an array of wildlife** such as alpine ibex, ermines, snow leopards, deer, golden eagles, saker falcons, and bearded vultures. Enjoying the pure air and clear, starry skies, our adventure will take us to verdant ***jailoos*, high-altitude summer pastures** that Kyrgyz nomads take their flocks to for grazing in the warmer months. Staying with friendly locals, we’ll learn about the nomadic way of life and spend our nights in cozy yurts. **Kazakhstan, the world’s ninth largest country,** is a rugged natural wonderland of steppes, mountains, woodlands, canyons and lakes. Within its borders lies a section of the Tien Shan range, offering up the gorgeous **Alpine terrain of forests, valleys and snowy peaks** found in the Kolsay Lakes National Park. In this magical landscape shaped by time and tectonics, more than 100 years ago, **a great earthquake** shook these mountains, resulting in the formation of a new body of water: **Lake Kaindy, with its eye catching,** **bright turquoise waters**. What makes this lake really stand out are the **partially submerged spruce trees** which stand in its waters to this day. Ghostly, bare trunks rise out of the chilly waters, making for a striking panorama – and amazing pictures! Nearby are the **Kolsay Lakes, known as the "Pearls of Tien Shan"**, reached by a hike through dense, tranquil forest. Trails connect these stunning bodies of water which range from altitudes of 1800 to 2850 meters, making for a great excuse to stretch our legs. We’ll descend from green heights to dusty depths as we trek into the gorge known as Kazakhstan’s **Grand Canyon**. Known for its stunning similarity to its bigger brother in States, **Charyn Canyon National Park’s** red sandstone rock formations are a stark contrast to the country’s mountainous regions. The **second largest canyon in the world**, Charyn Canyon stretches about 154 km (96 mi) along the banks of the Charyn River. Over millennia, the elements have weathered and shaped the sedimentary rock into **pillars, winding corridors and crevices** just begging to be explored. **Ready to lake it all in? Let's go!** **DAY 0 // TUE MAY 26 // DXB DEPARTURE** Meet at DXB Terminal 3 at 20:30 for our 22:45 flight to Bishkek. **DAY 1 // WED MAY 27 // KYRGYZSTAN ARRIVAL, JAILOO VISIT & KÖL-ÜKÖK LAKE HIKE** Welcome to Kyrgyzstan! We’ll arrive in Bishkek in the early hours. Once we’ve cleared immigration, we’ll grab some breakfast before hitting the road to spend time visiting nomadic villages and immersing ourselves in the rhythm of rural life. We’ll make the 2-hour drive to Kochkor village, heading towards the valley to Tez-Tör *jailoo* (summer pasture). There, we will hop on our horses and make the 3-hour journey to our yurt camp (2400 m). After lunch and a short rest, we’ll discover more about the flora and fauna of the high mountains, and learn how nomadic communities have thrived here for generations. In the afternoon, we’ll tackle the hike to Köl-Ükök lake (3000 m), offering a beautiful view of the glacier. Dinner at the camp and overnight in our yurts. **DAY 2 // THU MAY 28 // NOMAD LIFE, ISAKEEV HIKE & TCHU VALLEY** This morning we’ll enjoy a traditional nomad breakfast and the warm hospitality of our hosts, sharing in the daily life of a Kyrgyz family in their environment. After, we’ll hit the trail for a 3-hour hike to Isakeev, then transfer to Kochkor village, where we’ll enjoy another local welcome with lunch at a home stay. In the afternoon, we’ll make the drive through the beautiful Tchu Valley before arriving back in Bishkek, where we’ll visit the market for a bit of souvenir shopping, followed by dinner. Overnight in hotel. **DAY 3 // FRI MAY 29 // INTO KAZAKHSTAN & ALMATY** Today we’ll set off on the drive to Almaty, taking in the stunning scenery along the way. We’ll make the land border crossing into Kazakhstan and stop for lunch. Upon arrival, we’ll take a quick city tour of Almaty, then head to our hotel for overnight. **DAY 4 // MAY 30 // KOLSAY LAKES & LAKE KAINDY** After breakfast we’ll hit the road to Kolsay Lakes National Park. Today we’ll power through two treks, first making our way between the Kolsay lakes, taking in the fresh air and natural beauty that surrounds us. We’ll enjoy a picnic lunch, then follow the trail to Lake Kaindy, where there will be plenty of time to get some incredible pictures of this submerged forest. In the afternoon, there’s an option to do some horse riding at the village. Overnight at a homestay. **DAY 5 // SUN MAY 31 // CHARYN CANYON** Today we head into a completely different landscape, driving through semi-arid desert to reach Charyn Canyon. Home to a large number of rare and endangered species of animals, and featuring impressive cliffs and dramatic rock formations, we’ll trek inside the gorge to see it from various angles and marvel and at the multicolored layers of sediment, worn and shaped by weather and time. In the afternoon we’ll return to Almaty and enjoy dinner in local restaurant followed by airport transfer for return flight to Abu Dhabi. **Level of difficulty:** easy, available for beginners. **Activities:** trekking, sightseeing, optional horse riding. **Accommodation. & meals:** included - accommodation in yurts, hotel, guesthouse - double sharing, local meals. Single room at extra cost, subject to availability. **Cost: AED 4,900 excluding flights, until MAY 20th.** Past this date please inquire about cost and availability. **Specifically excluded:** Any costs related to visas, insurance, restaurant meals on transfers (Almaty, Bishkek), optional horse riding, entry fees if any. **Visas:** cost not included in trip budget. *It is sole responsibility of participant to secure entry to country of destination at the time of travel.* **Kyrgyzstan:** Many passports get visa free entry, for the rest [e-visa](https://www.evisa.e-gov.kg/): Visa free entry for UAE residents, holders of passports such as Egypt, India, Jordan, Lebanon, Pakistan. **Kazakhstan:** At the time of writing **60 nationalities** are visa free, such as: EU, Argentina, Australia, Bahrain, Belarus, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Hong Kong, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Iran, Japan, Kuwait, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Philippines, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Singapore, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, UK, US, Vietnam. **Other Passports:** Consulate or [Evisa](https://www.vmp.gov.kz/en/services/visa-service), third party support available. See yah at Lakes x Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 050 - 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) Find all trekkups at [linktr.ee/trekkup](http://linktr.ee/trekkup)

Join us for an exhilarating mountain hike designed to create lasting memories and forge new friendships! Register and get more details! No late confirmations **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** Experience the thrill of the outdoors, take in breathtaking views, and witness a stunning sunrise from the summit. **🌄 Hike to Amazing Views and Sunrise Magic** Set out in the early morning hours and embark on a guided hike through scenic trails that lead to the mountain’s peak. As dawn breaks, watch the first light paint the sky in hues of pink and gold, offering a spectacular sunrise panorama that will leave you in awe. **👫 Meet Fellow Adventurers** Connect with like-minded outdoor enthusiasts and build meaningful relationships with people who share your passion for adventure. Register and get more details! No late confirmations **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** Whether you're a seasoned hiker or new to the trails, this event is the perfect way to make new friends and enjoy shared experiences. **🍃 Experience More than Just a Hike:** Beyond the physical benefits of hiking, this event offers a rejuvenating escape from the daily grind. Reconnect with nature, clear your mind, and gain a fresh perspective as you trek through trails surrounded by the beauty of the mountains. Register and get more details! No late confirmations **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** Let the peaceful ambiance of the outdoors wash over you, leaving you feeling refreshed and inspired. **🌿 Fun and Camaraderie:** Bond with fellow participants as you navigate the trail, share stories, and enjoy moments of laughter and support. Celebrate your accomplishment at the summit with group photos, snacks, and a sense of collective achievement. Register and get more details! No late confirmations **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** **What to expect?** * Incredible Scenic Views * Refreshing Outdoor Experience * Opportunities to Network and Make Friends * Fun, Fitness, and Fresh Air **Hike Details:** * **Level**: Beginner to Beginner+ (8 KM distance) * **Trail**: Loop Donkey trail, Red,Green and black trails. *Don't miss out on this chance to be part of an adventure that will leave you inspired and energized.* **How to Join:** 1. RSVP on Meetup 2. **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** *Lace up your hiking boots, pack your essentials, and come along for a mountain hike that promises amazing views and a stunning sunrise.* *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Hiking 🥾

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🌤 Sometimes, all you need is a good road trip. To escape the city noise, clear your mind, and hit the open road with good people and even better energy. 🚙💨 Register and get more details! No late confirmations **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** There’s something magical about watching the Dubai skyline fade in your rearview mirror, your favorite playlist on, windows down, and laughter filling the air. **🛣️ Here’s the plan:** We’ll grab coffees ☕, sort carpooling (no one drives alone!), and hit the road in convoy style. Every kilometer counts when the company’s this good. 💬 **🏞️ Stop 1 – Shawkah Dam Park** Stretch your legs, breathe mountain air, sip tea, and snap photos 📸 of rugged beauty. A peaceful pause before we keep rolling. 🌿 Register and get more details! No late confirmations **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** **⛽ Stop 2 – Stretch & Sip** Quick break for snacks, laughs, and car-to-car banter. Fuel up, refill, reconnect. 😎 **🕌 Stop 3 – Al Jazirah Al Hamra Heritage Village** Step into the “Ghost Town” 👻 — the last surviving pearl village. Wander, explore, and watch the sunset paint the sky gold and rose 🌅. **🌄 Final Stop – Jebel Jais Mountain: The UAE’s highest peak!** As day turns to night, we’ll gather around a BBQ fire 🍢🔥, share food, stories, and laughter — surrounded by cool breezes, glowing stars, and unbeatable vibes. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** Get ready for a full day of scenic drives, spontaneous moments, and breathtaking views that end under a sky full of stars. 🌌✨ **🧭 Here's what to expect:** * 🏔️ Scenic mountain drives * ☕ Tea, cookies & smiles at every stop * 🚗 Fun carpooling & new friendships * 🍢 BBQ dinner under the stars * 🌅 A sunset you’ll never forget It’s a journey of connection, laughter, and discovery — where strangers become friends, every stop feels like a story, and every view reminds you why we love to explore. **How to Join:** 1. RSVP on Meetup 2. [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Adventure!

🌤 Sometimes, all you need is a good road trip. To escape the city noise, clear your mind, and hit the open road with good people and even better energy. 🚙💨 Register and get more details! No late confirmations **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** There’s something magical about watching the Dubai skyline fade in your rearview mirror, your favorite playlist on, windows down, and laughter filling the air. **🛣️ Here’s the plan:** We’ll grab coffees ☕, sort carpooling (no one drives alone!), and hit the road in convoy style. Every kilometer counts when the company’s this good. 💬 **🏞️ Stop 1 – Shawkah Dam Park** Stretch your legs, breathe mountain air, sip tea, and snap photos 📸 of rugged beauty. A peaceful pause before we keep rolling. 🌿 Register and get more details! No late confirmations **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** **⛽ Stop 2 – Stretch & Sip** Quick break for snacks, laughs, and car-to-car banter. Fuel up, refill, reconnect. 😎 **🕌 Stop 3 – Al Jazirah Al Hamra Heritage Village** Step into the “Ghost Town” 👻 — the last surviving pearl village. Wander, explore, and watch the sunset paint the sky gold and rose 🌅. **🌄 Final Stop – Jebel Jais Mountain: The UAE’s highest peak!** As day turns to night, we’ll gather around a BBQ fire 🍢🔥, share food, stories, and laughter — surrounded by cool breezes, glowing stars, and unbeatable vibes. Register and get more details! No late confirmations **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** Get ready for a full day of scenic drives, spontaneous moments, and breathtaking views that end under a sky full of stars. 🌌✨ **🧭 Here's what to expect:** * 🏔️ Scenic mountain drives * ☕ Tea, cookies & smiles at every stop * 🚗 Fun carpooling & new friendships * 🍢 BBQ dinner under the stars * 🌅 A sunset you’ll never forget It’s a journey of connection, laughter, and discovery — where strangers become friends, every stop feels like a story, and every view reminds you why we love to explore. **How to Join:** 1. RSVP on Meetup 2. [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Adventure!

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.

This is a small but pretty park with a 1.7-mile loop. We will walk it 2 times. It goes along a ridge and has moderate elevation changes.

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 .

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.

**History** [Chestnut Ridge Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/chestnut-ridge/) is historically significant because it sits on a 300-million-year-old outcropping of Blackhand sandstone. Geographically recognized as the very first foothill of the Appalachian Mountains, the ridge rises 1,116 feet above sea level. Long before European settlement, the land served as a sacred site for ancient civilizations. The park contains the Old Maid's Orchard Mound, an eight-foot-tall burial mound constructed by the Adena culture between 1000 B.C. and 100 B.C. This ancient landmark has remained largely intact and is now protected on the National Register of Historic Places. The documented modern history of the land began with an official survey conducted by Ebenezer Buckingham in 1801. Original land deeds of sale from this period notably bear the signatures of United States Presidents Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. In the 1830s, Irish laborers arrived at the ridge to quarry its rich Blackhand sandstone. The blocks they hewed were used to build the crucial locks for the nearby Ohio and Erie Canal. Remnants of this early sandstone quarrying operation can still be spotted by sharp-eyed hikers along the modern trails. Agricultural transformation defined the ridge throughout the mid-to-late 19th century. Settlers discovered that the high elevation created a natural air flow that prevented late-season frost damage to crops. Extensive fruit orchards were planted across the slopes between 1860 and 1880. One notable orchard was established by John Wagner, a Spanish-American War veteran who chose the ridge specifically for its proximity to the bustling Columbus market. The park's current name pays homage to the massive American chestnut trees that once dominated the ridgeline before a devastating ecological blight wiped them out in the early 20th century. The conservation story of the modern 486-acre park began in March 1962. The Metro Parks board announced land acquisition plans to block developers from building a residential housing development called Chestnut Heights. Director-Secretary Walter A. Tucker advocated heavily for the purchase, citing the ridge's immense value as a scenic overlook for central Ohio. The district systematically purchased multiple agricultural parcels over the next two decades. After operating strictly as undeveloped farmland through the 1970s, Chestnut Ridge Metro Park officially opened to the public on December 18, 1988. In recent decades, the park has evolved from a quiet hiking spot into a premier regional destination for outdoor sports. A major turning point occurred in 2010 when the Central Ohio Mountain Biking Organization (COMBO) partnered with the park district to develop new infrastructure. Volunteers worked extensively to construct a single-track mountain bike trail, which officially opened in October 2011. An expert gravity and flow trail featuring advanced jumps was later integrated into the loop in 2016. Today, the park successfully balances its deep ancient, industrial, and agricultural history with active recreation. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Chestnut Ridge](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/CHR_map_1980px_2026.jpg). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Ridge, Meadows, and Homesite Trails, and Law's Lane, which is unmarked on some maps. None of these trails is individually very long, so we will hike a few permutations and loops until we get in 4-5 miles. The hike will be moderately strenuous. **Where We'll Meet** Drive to the rearmost picnic area at the back of the park. There's a latrine here, but there's no water fountain here or anywhere else at Chestnut Ridge. I strongly recommend you bring some water of your own, at least for after the hike. Cell service at the park is spotty, although your GPS will get you there just fine. The map pin I've provided here is exactly where we'll be meeting and should be able to be used directly in Google Maps, although Chestnut Ridge isn't big and you're unlikely to get lost here. **After the Hike** Afterward, we'll head over to [BrewDog DogTap](https://drink.brewdog.com/usa/brewdog-dogtap-columbus) for [drinks](https://usa.brewdog.com/pages/brewdog-lineup) and [food](https://usa.brewdog.com/cdn/shop/files/DogTap_Menu_2025_65e1ff8b-97d4-4f26-80f1-68321d482025.pdf?v=17356939232910340498). They also have an outdoor area that's extremely popular. I've had their burgers and their pizza, and I think they're both very good. I also really like their [Cold Beer](https://usa.brewdog.com/products/cold-beer-2024) (that's its actual name), which is their American light lager. BrewDog's actual address is [96 Gender Rd, Canal Winchester, OH 43110](https://www.google.com/maps/place/96+Gender+Rd,+Canal+Winchester,+OH+43110/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88387c06afa21a85:0x804c611d373d8c54?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and they have a large, free parking lot. We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.

**Weather permitting**, we’ll take a casual ride from Pickerington Ponds (Glacier Knoll) to Three Creeks and back. Distance is **18–25 miles**, depending on where we turn around and whether we add a side loop. Pace is around **12 mph**, but this is a fun, no‑drop ride — we can slow down as needed. Here’s the **map** showing Glacier Knoll (bike), Confluence Park (flag), and BrewDog: [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit..](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit..). Text or call Scott at **614‑975‑4458** if you’re coming. Columbus ski club membership not required for this event. CSC assumes no responsibility for the event or any injuries as this is organized by a third party.