Trains
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out trains events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the trains events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find trains events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Trains Events Today
Join in-person Trains events happening right now
Brushes & Brunch: A Mother's Day Painting Event
šø Motherās Day deserves more than flowers šø
Join us for an elevated outdoor paint experience designed for creativity, connection, and unforgettable memories.
⨠Brushes & Brunch: Motherās Day Garden Edition āØ
Beautiful garden vibes
Brunch bites
Signature refreshments
Guided painting
Soft music
Luxury energy
Whether you're celebrating your mother, your daughter, your friends, or simply honoring yourself ā this experience is your invitation to slow down and create something beautiful.
No painting experience needed ā just bring your good energy.
This is not your typical paint party.
This is intentional.
This is elevated.
This is your moment.
š Limited seating available to keep the experience intimate.
Reserve your spot early
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/brushes-brunch-a-curated-mothers-day-painting-experience-tickets-1987709930911
Saturday Mornings @ East Market
Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating.
Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator.
Per what this group is about:
"Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who enjoy talking to people from other countries, and those who would like to discuss international travel and culture, and who enjoy getting together for good conversations."
Morning people unite!! š¤ ā + š¬ @ Kittie's Worthington
Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Kittie's Worthington](https://kittiescakes.com/)!
CABS Boardgaming Saturday, May 9th
Thanks for being a part of the CABS Meetup Group! We meet @ the COFFEE UNDERGROUND on Indianola Avenue. We play many different games @ CABS - bring your own or play one of the OVER 2000 in our library. What are your favorite games? What was the last game you played? Hope to see and game with you soon! Check us out on Facebook! Doors open early on Saturday Mornings at 10am and around 4pm on Fridays if you are interested in learning new / simpler games ... or new to the hobby or just want to check us out come in early just after noon and we will show you around before the crowd grows. Stay for a game or two, an hour or two or for the day! Your first visit is free and after that it's $5 a meeting or you can join for the year! It's Your Move
Walk & Talk About Life's Big Questions
[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 ā 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 ā 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 twoāthirds 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. š¤ š
**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).
Distillery Tour and Tasting!
***High Bank Distillery tours*** walk you through our story, our process, and a tasting of our spirits (and maybe a few in the works). We end in the Barrel Room for a wonderful tasting of their best sellers! **The tours *cost $10/person* and we ask that you *arrive 10 minutes prior* to the start of the tour.**
**4:30pm TOUR**
**5:30pm DRINKS & DINNER**: We'll try a drink made with your favorite spirit you tasted on tour. We'll grab a bite to eat there, too.
**PARKING**: Street parking and Ohio Power Tool parking lot nearby.
**[High Bank Distillery](https://www.highbankco.com/)** is your destination for great food, cold drinks, and fun times in Columbus, OH. We pride ourselves in the quality and flavors of our spirits, distilled and prepared in house, and perfect for any occasion. Pair our creative cocktails with some traditional pub food, and you have the recipe for a perfect night out.
Short North Street Skate | Weekly Rollout
Short North Street Skates return Saturday, April 4 and weāre excited to get back rolling together.
These weekly rollouts are a chance to move through the city as a group, build community, and create more visibility for skating and small-wheeled movement in Columbus.
Details:
Meet: 1160 N High St
9:30 AM meet
10:00 AM rollout
All wheels welcome
Weāll be skating through the Short North and surrounding areas at a steady, social pace. Routes will use a mix of streets and bike lanes, so comfort navigating the city is helpful, but you donāt need to be an expert.
If youāve been meaning to come out, this is a great place to start.
Come solo or bring a friend!
Trains Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Journey: Hiking the Highlands in Scotland 2026
*We can only take 13 women on this trip.*
**The details...**
Immerse yourself in the wild splendor of Scotland on this exclusive **womenās 8-day hiking** adventure.
Misty moors, heather-clad hillsides, verdant glens, and ancient castles steeped in folklore will fill your camera roll by the end of this trip.
***Learn more about this all women journey here: [Highlands](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/journeys-1/hiking-highlands-scotland-2026)***
**A guided adventure:**
Guided by experienced locals, explore the untamed hills of Glencoe and the Cairngorms during invigorating day hikes. Each evening, unwind and reflect on the dayās experiences, forging friendships and savoring Highland hospitality.
This is more than a hiking trip.
Itās an opportunity to immerse yourself in Scotlandās rich history and traditions. Learn about women-led crofts and take a loch plunge while wild swimming (followed by a steamy sauna).
**What to expect...**
* Hike in Scotlandās rugged Highlands and experience green Glencoe.
* Visit a medieval castles and historic stone villages.
* Soak up the history of Edinburghās city center.
* Indulge in delicious and plentiful Scottish cuisine, including fresh seafood, local beer, and hearty breakfasts.
* Traverse heather-clad landscapes while giving your body a good workout. (You must train for this trip.)
* Enjoy restorative stays at beautiful hotels.
**Wait, there's more...**
* Bask in the beauty of the Cairngorms.
* Hike with other Bold Spirit women who love to travel as much as you do.
* Learn about rewilding and women-led crofting.
* Shop along the cobblestone streets of Edinburgh.
* Take the plunge into a loch for wild swimming and a shoreline sauna experience.
* Stretch both your mind and hamstrings on this special journey.
The best part? Our team **takes care of the logistics** so you can focus on enjoying a much needed vacation in beautiful Scotland.
Are you ready to meet other women who love to hike and travel, plus see Scotland with professional guides?
***Learn more about this all women tour here: [2026 Hiking the Highlands Journey](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/journeys-1/hiking-highlands-scotland-2026)***
* Ask us questions here: [Tell me more about this trip](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/contact)
* Learn about Bold Spirit Travel [here](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/about).
* Rates start at $6195
Rays Of Light Spiritualist Church Service
Rev. Steven Clevenger is an ordained spiritualist minister with over 40 years experience as a Spiritual Healer, Clairvoyant and Spiritual Teacher, educated and trained at the White Lily Chapel.
Rev. Siobhan Wolf Shaffer is an ordained spiritualist minister and certified medium and healer with over 20 years experience. She began her development in 1988 in Pennsylvania and continued when she moved to Ohio in 1998 where she studied at Rays of Lights Church with Rev. Steven Clevenger.
Our full worship services consist of an inspirational lecture, healing meditation, and messages from the spirit world that serve to demonstrate evidence of eternal life.
Please visit our Official Church Website (http://raysoflightchurch.com) for more information.
Detroit Interactive Virtual Speed Dating Locals
š **Online Speed Dating for Detroit Singles ā Real Connections, Long-Term Thinking**
This is for singles who are done with apps that go nowhere. Done with casual. Ready for a genuine conversation with someone who might actually matter.
Live on Zoom. Personality matched. Built for people who want something that lasts.
**Choose your age group to register:**
- Ages 18-32: [Register Here](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=476.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=foster-meaningful-relationships-through-outdoor-exploration&ar=18-32&face_v=2.0)
- Ages 30-46: [Register Here](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=476.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=foster-meaningful-relationships-through-outdoor-exploration&ar=30-46&face_v=2.0)
- Ages 40-58: [Register Here](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=476.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=foster-meaningful-relationships-through-outdoor-exploration&ar=40-58&face_v=2.0)
- Ages 55+: [Register Here](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=476.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=foster-meaningful-relationships-through-outdoor-exploration&ar=55+&face_v=2.0)
šæ RSVP here alone does not hold your place. Complete your registration through the link above and finish the short personality quiz.
---
**How it works:**
1. Register via your age group link and complete the personality quiz.
2. Join Zoom at the event time ā works on any device, no downloads needed.
3. Meet Detroit singles in short one-on-one rounds matched by age and personality.
4. Mutual matches are shared after ā take it forward at your own pace.
š¤ Spots are kept small to keep things personal. If you are serious about finding the right person, this is where it starts.
Cleveland Online Speed Dating Verified Locals
š **Online Speed Dating for Cleveland Singles ā Real Connections, Long-Term Thinking**
This is for singles who are done with apps that go nowhere. Done with casual. Ready for a genuine conversation with someone who might actually matter.
Live on Zoom. Personality matched. Built for people who want something that lasts.
**Choose your age group to register:**
- Ages 18-32: [Register Here](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=476.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=foster-meaningful-relationships-through-outdoor-exploration&ar=18-32&face_v=2.0)
- Ages 30-46: [Register Here](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=476.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=foster-meaningful-relationships-through-outdoor-exploration&ar=30-46&face_v=2.0)
- Ages 40-58: [Register Here](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=476.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=foster-meaningful-relationships-through-outdoor-exploration&ar=40-58&face_v=2.0)
- Ages 55+: [Register Here](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=476.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=foster-meaningful-relationships-through-outdoor-exploration&ar=55+&face_v=2.0)
šæ RSVP here alone does not hold your place. Complete your registration through the link above and finish the short personality quiz.
---
**How it works:**
1. Register via your age group link and complete the personality quiz.
2. Join Zoom at the event time ā works on any device, no downloads needed.
3. Meet Cleveland singles in short one-on-one rounds matched by age and personality.
4. Mutual matches are shared after ā take it forward at your own pace.
š¤ Spots are kept small to keep things personal. If you are serious about finding the right person, this is where it starts.
Cincinnati Virtual Speed Dating Authentic Locals
š **Online Speed Dating for Cincinnati Singles ā Real Connections, Long-Term Thinking**
This is for singles who are done with apps that go nowhere. Done with casual. Ready for a genuine conversation with someone who might actually matter.
Live on Zoom. Personality matched. Built for people who want something that lasts.
**Choose your age group to register:**
- Ages 18-32: [Register Here](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=476.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cincinnati&groupurlname=foster-meaningful-relationships-through-outdoor-exploration&ar=18-32&face_v=2.0)
- Ages 30-46: [Register Here](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=476.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cincinnati&groupurlname=foster-meaningful-relationships-through-outdoor-exploration&ar=30-46&face_v=2.0)
- Ages 40-58: [Register Here](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=476.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cincinnati&groupurlname=foster-meaningful-relationships-through-outdoor-exploration&ar=40-58&face_v=2.0)
- Ages 55+: [Register Here](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=476.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cincinnati&groupurlname=foster-meaningful-relationships-through-outdoor-exploration&ar=55+&face_v=2.0)
šæ RSVP here alone does not hold your place. Complete your registration through the link above and finish the short personality quiz.
---
**How it works:**
1. Register via your age group link and complete the personality quiz.
2. Join Zoom at the event time ā works on any device, no downloads needed.
3. Meet Cincinnati singles in short one-on-one rounds matched by age and personality.
4. Mutual matches are shared after ā take it forward at your own pace.
š¤ Spots are kept small to keep things personal. If you are serious about finding the right person, this is where it starts.
Columbus Authentic Singles Virtual Speed Dating
š **Online Speed Dating for Columbus Singles ā Real Connections, Long-Term Thinking**
This is for singles who are done with apps that go nowhere. Done with casual. Ready for a genuine conversation with someone who might actually matter.
Live on Zoom. Personality matched. Built for people who want something that lasts.
**Choose your age group to register:**
- Ages 18-32: [Register Here](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=476.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=foster-meaningful-relationships-through-outdoor-exploration&ar=18-32&face_v=2.0)
- Ages 30-46: [Register Here](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=476.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=foster-meaningful-relationships-through-outdoor-exploration&ar=30-46&face_v=2.0)
- Ages 40-58: [Register Here](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=476.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=foster-meaningful-relationships-through-outdoor-exploration&ar=40-58&face_v=2.0)
- Ages 55+: [Register Here](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=476.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=foster-meaningful-relationships-through-outdoor-exploration&ar=55+&face_v=2.0)
šæ RSVP here alone does not hold your place. Complete your registration through the link above and finish the short personality quiz.
---
**How it works:**
1. Register via your age group link and complete the personality quiz.
2. Join Zoom at the event time ā works on any device, no downloads needed.
3. Meet Columbus singles in short one-on-one rounds matched by age and personality.
4. Mutual matches are shared after ā take it forward at your own pace.
š¤ Spots are kept small to keep things personal. If you are serious about finding the right person, this is where it starts.
Trains Events Near You
Connect with your local Trains community
Lunch and Play Mexican Train
**Letās relax and have fun. The private room is reserved for us š**
Saturday Mornings @ East Market
Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating.
Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator.
Per what this group is about:
"Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who enjoy talking to people from other countries, and those who would like to discuss international travel and culture, and who enjoy getting together for good conversations."
Free In-Person Meeting: Healing from Trauma and Past Betrayals
This is a free, in person meeting.
Burdened by a stressful relationship? Unhealthy relationships can trigger feelings of anger, despair or self-doubt. They can create dwindling spirals of fights and seeking to make-up, or trying to āpin the blameā on someone or something. If you donāt find the RIGHT reasons, or select the correct sources of the problem, the problem can just get worse and worse.
Whether in love or personal ties, with friends or at work, our life really IS affected by the quality of our relationships. Good ones can promote pleasure and survival while less optimum ones can lead to annoyance, anger, self-doubt, stress, or even affect our health and ability to survive well.
Whether you are suffering from a divorce, or a painful break-up, donāt know who to trust (or who to CHOOSE) as a partner, friend, boss or employee - the anxiety of relationship troubles can really make a mess of things. Maybe youāve suffered a betrayal, or are dealing with hostility or criticalness or invalidation. Dwindling relationships can involve destructive behavior, where we hurt those we love, or start succumbing to self-destructive thoughts, attitudes or behaviors that spiral out of control and affect much more than our immediate relationship.
Past losses in love or life can affect how we act or react to new people and situations and hold us back from even starting to create new, possibly great relationships! How can one get back onto a saner course of action?
Come to our Meetup, where we can introduce you to some of the knowledge, tools and techniques of the breakthroughs in the field of the mind that we can apply to this ever important area of life: human relationships!
Break free from self imposed limitations
Here we will discuss:
⢠How to āeraseā the trauma of past hurts and betrayals so that one isnāt always repeating past mistakes.
⢠Why and how do the negative emotions of others affect you?
⢠Why is my partner withdrawing and what can I do about it?
⢠Why do we sometimes feel compelled to hurt the ones we love?
⢠Fights & arguments - what's really behind them?
⢠What underlies ācorrosive criticismā or the need to invalidate self or others?
⢠How one can stably change oneās outlook on life so they can affect positive change?
⢠Where do compulsive destructive behaviors come from and what can be done about them?
⢠How to form closer bonds & keep growing the relationships with the people you care about?
⢠How to enhance oneās own ability to survive and create positive healthy relationships whether in love, family & friendships or in work, business or oneās career?
Relationships can be hard and life itself IS challenging. Why not arm yourself with the knowledge and breakthroughs that have been made about the mind, mental reactions & interpersonal relationships, so that one has better awareness and control over themselves and life in general.
Learn where painful experiences are āstoredā and how they can unknowingly affect us. You will also find out how one can āeraseā those past painful experiences so that one is free to move forward without being tripped up by the past. Learn too, about what can lead some people to become ātoxicā personalities and how to identify those traits in others so you wonāt be tripped up trusting the wrong person.
Our free Meet-ups occur in a safe environment where one can learn, without fear of judgment or criticism, and without the recommendation of harmful mental techniques or therapies, just how YOU can get yourself onto a happier & more successful path: in love & in life.
We look forward to having you join us!
This class is sponsored by the Dianetics & Scientology Life Improvement Center of Central Ohio.
Contra dance May 16 (First Unitarian Universalist Church) note new time!
# **Saturday, May 16, 2026**
**Beginnersā Session 1:30 to 2:00 PM**
**Dancing 2:00 to 4:30 PM**
**Please note that this is an afternoon dance!**
**You are invited to join us for dinner at Olive and Lime (in the churchās back parking lot) after the dance.**
**Kim Thompson, from Athens, will take the mic and weāll dance to the music of Roscommon Sessions. Kim will lead us through a variety of old and new dances that welcome newbies and delight experienced dancers.**
**Roscommon Sessions, a traditional Irish music quartet from Columbus, Ohio, began their musical journey centered around the energy and spontaneity of Irish sessions. They are excited to bring their lively jigs and reels, a couple of flowing waltzes, and the occasional musical surprise to the All Soles contra dancers!**
**Roscommon Sessions is Steve Steele (guitar), Jim Lindroth (percussion), Carol Metheny (fiddle) and Sarah Sigmon (fiddle).**
**We hope to see you dancing!**
**Location: First Unitarian Universalist Church, 93 W. Weisheimer Road, Columbus, OH 43214.**
**Cost is $10 for adults, $5 ages 12-25.**
**New to dancing? A beginnersā session, from 1:30 to 2:00 PM, will get you started. You will learn some basic figures that will be repeated in the afternoonās dances. All dances will be taught and no partner is needed. Dancing is from 2:00 to 4:30 PM.**
**Please bring your own refillable water bottle.**
**All Soles Dance upcoming dance dates are, as follows:**
**June 20, 2026**
**Tentative:**
**July 25, 2026āSummer Potluck and Dance**
**No August Dance**
**September 26, 2026**
**October 17, 2026**
**November 21, 2026**
**December 19, 2026**
**Visit our website at: https://firstuucolumbus.org/connection/all-soles/**
Trails & Ales! Blendon Woods Metro Park / Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery
**History**
The history of [Blendon Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blendon-woods/) began long before its 1951 opening, rooted in a landscape of rugged ridges and deep ravines that made the land unsuitable for traditional farming. In 1945, a report proposing a metropolitan park system for Franklin County specifically highlighted these cliffs of Bedford Shale as some of the "wildest land in the vicinity". Following this recommendation, the recently formed park district purchased the first 229 acres in early 1949. Because the terrain was so uneven, developers had to cut a mile-and-a-half-long roadway through dense woods just to bring in heavy equipment. This initial preservation effort ensured that the mature second-growth hardwood forests remained largely untouched by the urban expansion spreading toward Westerville.
Opening day arrived on Labor Day, September 3, 1951, marking Blendon Woods as the second park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The final push to open was a frantic race; the State Highway Department only finished the primary gravel access road four days before the gates opened. Early staff members, consisting of just four full-time employees, had to hand-dig pit toilets and learn construction skills on the fly to build the first picnic shelters. Despite the dusty conditions and limited facilities, the park was an immediate success, drawing massive crowds from across Central Ohio. By the end of the 1950s, annual visitation had already climbed to over 190,000 people.
As the surrounding suburbs grew in the 1960s, the park faced severe overcrowding that threatened its natural habitats. In response, Franklin County voters passed the first Metro Parks levy in 1960, providing the funds necessary for a decade of steady expansion. During this era, the park nearly doubled in size, growing from 264 acres to over 570 acres by 1968. Planners also addressed a critical water shortage by collaborating with the U.S. Soil and Conservation Service to build a lake in 1964. This body of water originally served as a temporary reservoir before its role shifted toward conservation and wildlife support.
The 1970s marked a transition toward the specialized wildlife and educational focus for which the park is known today. In 1971, the Walden Waterfowl Refuge was established around the 11-acre Thoreau Lake, creating a sanctuary that remains restricted to provide a quiet habitat for migratory birds. A formal nature center was also developed during this period, expanding on the guided Sunday walks that had been a park staple since the early 1950s. The parkās 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 parkās 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.
CABS Flea Market ! Saturday , May 16th
CABS Flea market - Come early to get the best bargains!!! Stay late to play your new games ...




























