Via Ferrata

**Roots: Memory, Migration, Nature & Belonging** This workshop explores how our memories, identities, and sense of belonging are shaped by the plants and climates we grow up with, and how these relationships change through experiences of migration, movement, and transformation. Whether migration is across countries, cities, languages, or social environments, we carry traces of these places with us, often in ways we do not immediately recognise. Grounded in queer ecology and theory, this workshop approaches nature as a space that challenges fixed categories and celebrates diverse ways of relating, adapting, and existing. **Queer Ecology, Memory, and Migration** Drawing from writers such as Sania Shah and Jessica J. Lee, alongside examples of queerness in flowers and plant life, participants will reflect on their own connections to place, memory, and movement. Together, we will explore questions such as: * What do we carry with us when we migrate? * How do plants, landscapes, and climates shape identity? * What traces of former homes remain with us? * How do we create belonging in new environments? * What can nature teach us about adaptation and transformation? **Creative Reflection and Making** Participants are invited to identify a transformational plant, flower, tree, or natural element that holds personal significance. Through storytelling, group discussion, painting, and speculative making methods, we will explore how reconnecting with these plant memories can help us understand where we come from, how we identify ourselves, and how we root ourselves in the places we inhabit today. Together, we will imagine and create small portable objects inspired by these plants and memories. These creations may become: * Personal holders * Necklaces * Keychains * Magnets * Pins * Other everyday companions These objects will serve as small reminders of memory, movement, belonging, and transformation. **Community, Anti-Racism, and Collective Storytelling** The workshop also engages with themes of anti-racism, the right to existence, community-building, and collective storytelling. Through rounds of sharing and listening, participants contribute to a supportive environment where personal stories become a starting point for understanding broader experiences of belonging, migration, identity, and difference. Sharing personal experiences is welcome but never required. Participants are encouraged to engage in whatever way feels comfortable for them. **Who Is This Workshop For?** This workshop welcomes: * Migrants and refugees * Diaspora communities * LGBTQIA+ people * Artists, writers, and creatives * Nature lovers * Community organisers * People interested in identity, memory, and belonging * Anyone curious about migration, ecology, and storytelling No prior knowledge or artistic experience is required. **Accessibility Information** This event takes place at Villa Vida Café, Linke Wienzeile 102, 1060 Vienna. Accessibility features include: * Step-free entrance * Wheelchair-accessible ground floor venue * Accessible toilet * Seating available throughout the event * Quiet spaces available upon request * Service animals welcome * Free drinking water available If you have specific accessibility requirements, please contact us before the event and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.

We start our tour at the **northern end of the Steinspornbrücke**, an ideal starting point for exploring the Lobau. **Route and terrain:** The tour takes us through the beautiful nature of the Lobau, part of the Nationalparks Donau-Auen as well multiple farmfields in the south-western Marchfeld. The terrain consists of **90% gravel and crushed stone paths**, which vary in thickness. It is therefore important that your bike is suitable for such conditions (e.g., **gravel or mountain bike**). The route is very flat. **Length and pace:** The total distance is approximately **35 km**. We will ride at an **average minimum speed of 21-23 km/h**, which is a moderate pace for experienced cyclists. Please only participate if you feel fit enough to do so! **Sun exposure and breaks:** A major advantage of this tour is that **70%** of it is in the **shadow**, which is particularly pleasant on warm days. About halfway through the route, we have the opportunity to **refuel our water bottles** at the **Radlertreff Hermi**. **Distance:** 35 km **Elevation gain:** close to none **Maximum elevation:** N/A **Tempo:** 21-23 km/h **Link to the route:** https://www.bergfex.at/sommer/wien/touren/wanderung/5288930,lobau-and-beyond-gravel/ **Notes:** Please bring enough water and maybe a small snack. A helmet is recommended for safety reasons. Before the tour, check that your bike is in good working order (brakes, tires, gears). Let's enjoy a sporty bike tour through the Lobau and beyond together!

Join us for our regular and casual Friday evening, on playing Padel. We reserve our right to adapt the setup according to the audience level, vibe, health, weather, shape etc SETUP ● 2 courts (2 vs 2), 1 team is rotating or taking a rest court 1: minim 6 players court 2: minim 4 players ● 2 courts - 10-12 people (more players, we make small teams and play shorts, all combination; the hosts have the last word. proposals are welcome) ● The event organisers or experienced player are entitled to send players on the second court ● We are respectfull and warm with each other, our cultural and professional background is diverse. ● New proposals are welcome :). Sometimes we adapt. ● The host toghether with the regular players, can ask new or misbehaved players to step out from the court, in order to maintain the good vibes Price to pay (in cash) (Aprox, for this season, could vary with 1-2 euros) ■ 12 euros for 1h ■ 20 euros for 2h ■ If you need a racket, you can rent it from us for 2 € (if available). Otherwise you can always rent from the venue for 5 €. ■ Cancelation 4-6h, ahead or you pay 12 euros the fee for 1h ● We use the monney to cover the courts rent & subscription for renting, smaller hostings or welcome expenses Important ● New commers, intermediate, out of shape, friendly players are playing on their own risk. If they choose to play with advanced players in a more "competitive" way (hitting the ball in the direction of opponent player is allowed). ● Playing competitive is allowed on the first court ● Playing friendly is our main goal. For this we understand both advanced people, who want to consume their energy, and the social people who play for fun. Please collaborate on the court and don't go to advanced court if you are injured or recovering from illness. ● Please anounce the hosts and/or the players on your court, if you have some injuries or specific conditions. ● We love to play social and all levels. ● Be welcoming with newcomers ● Once you know us (couple of games together), You are welcome to hang out with us, even when you can't play.

Reserve: https://villavida.at/event/rodehoes-rootin-tootin-pub-quiz-just-be-gay/ **Trivia Night at Villa Vida Café** Join drag queen RodeHoe for *RodeHoe’s Rootin’ Tootin’ Pub Quiz* — an evening of trivia, laughter, and friendly competition led by one of Vienna’s sharpest (and loudest) hosts. Each quiz night brings a new theme, with questions spanning pop culture, queer history, music, film, and unexpected knowledge. Teams compete for bragging rights while RodeHoe keeps the room lively with humor, commentary, and just enough chaos. **Theme – JUNE 12** **BROADWAY THEMED** Test your knowledge of MUSICAL THEATER, lip syncs, iconic moments, stage looks, and unforgettable catchphrases from the Broadway universe. **Entry** Donation-based. Pay what you wish. Everyone is welcome. **What to Expect** * Drag-hosted quiz with personality (not a quiet pub night) * A mix of easy, niche, and “how do I know this?” questions * A social, low-pressure atmosphere * Mild chaos, strong opinions, and occasional dramatic reactions **Accessibility & Community** * Step-free access * Accessible toilet * Queer-centered, inclusive space * No tolerance for discriminatory behavior

**In Wicca and other Neo-Pagan traditions the "Wheel of the Year" is central: Eight yearly festivals that echo the seasonal rites of our ancestors.** **This month's celebration is MIDSUMMER!** **Midsummer**, also known as **Litha**, is the radiant crown of the solar year—the longest day and the height of light. The sun stands at its zenith, spilling golden power across the land, and nature pulses with abundance, vitality, and color. In Wiccan tradition, this is a time of **honoring the peak of life and energy**, when the God is in his full power, and the Goddess, heavy with the promise of harvest, blesses the earth with fullness. Though the light is strong, Midsummer is also a time of **turning**—a sacred pause before the descent begins. From this point onward, the days slowly shorten, and we are reminded that even the brightest fire contains the seed of transformation. The bonfires of Litha call us to celebrate life, to dance and feast, to honor love, passion, and the light within ourselves and the world. It is a time for magic, for communion with the fae and nature spirits, and for affirming joy, strength, and protection. As we stand at the zenith of the sun’s path, we are invited to shine boldly, to embrace our power, and to offer our light in service of what is good, true, and beautiful. 🌞🔥🌻 **TICKETS: You can pay cash at the door (EUR 20) or buy a ticket online HERE (EUR 15):** **[https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fellowship-of-the-western-mysteries-open-ritual-tickets-1979108345337?aff=erelexpmlt](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fellowship-of-the-western-mysteries-open-ritual-tickets-1979108345337?aff=erelexpmlt)** **(Online tickets are non-refundable.)** **The event and the ritual will be held in English** unless otherwise noted. We sometimes do have other groups host rituals, and sometimes they work in other languages. If that is the case it will be noted here. **Doors open at 19:30**. Ritual talk-through will start at 20:00 or so and the ritual will start soon after the talk-through. Ritual length varies but the ritual itself should be over by 21:30 to 22:00. Afterwords there will be time for socializing and merrymaking, so plan to stay longer if you're feeling social and you can. If not of course you can go when you wish. :-) There is an open bar on-site. :-) **Attire:** Street clothes are fine but try to come dressed as much as possible in a single colour- black and white are best. If you have ritual attire (robes etc.) and would like to wear them, feel free. Beginners and experienced practioners alike, as well as the merely curious are welcomed. We will explain everything you need to do before the ritual- it's possible (and completely fine) to jump right in. The environment is friendly and welcoming and newcomers are welcomed! We do a full talk-through before the ritual, explain what the ritual is about and what everyone needs to know and understand, and we'll guide you through the whole thing, so there is really no problem coming if you have no idea what to expect. Run in partnership with our friends at The Hexen/Heiden Stammtisch [Feuerkreise.at](https://feuerkreise.at/forum/index.php)/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/271329456233561](https://www.facebook.com/groups/271329456233561). **Feuerkreis Verein members receive a discounted entry- EUR 5.** This must be paid at the door and in cash. [www.fellowshipwesternmysteries.org](www.fellowshipwesternmysteries.org)

Play with us friendly Beach Volleyball games, every Friday afternoon, 4:00 PM. ( bi weekly, the Event ist for all Levels, also we can / try to Take In, Last Minute Leute) - IRP ( In Real Pearson) experience. - bring your own music or Spotify list - Sassy, Glimmer , messy, any combination u have we take it:) - usually 2 courts, and we Play more combinations: 3 vs 3, 4 vs 4, 2 vs 2 - weekly, Friday, 4:00 pm - price to cover the courts 11 Euros (+/-1 or 2 Euros, depending on participants) Our main language is English++ ( we usually speak 2-3 more languages, sometimes, more) - put in your arrival date/time/duration , in comments section bellow! (so we can adapt the number of courts, players... costs). Cheers!!! Adina

The biggest football tournament on earth is finally here! 🌍🏆 The FIFA World Cup 2026 is taking over the USA, Canada, and Mexico, and we are bringing all the action, energy, and stadium atmosphere straight to you. Whether you are a die-hard football fan or just love the unmatched vibe of a global tournament, this is the place to be! We are hosting our official World Cup Watchparties at **Munchy The Urban Kitchen** – your favorite local pub with great screens, cold drinks, and an amazing community of sports lovers. At this evenings is **free choice of seats**! Enjoy your Watchpartie! 🥳 [Follow us on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/makingfriendsinvienna)❤️ [Follow us on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/makingfriendsinvienna)💙 Do you have questions? Write us on Instagram 🎉

(Deutsch unten.) Sunday's portrait sessions start at 3 PM. Everyone is welcome to join our Open Sessions, just bring pencil, paper and any other utensils you may need. (Easels & Boards are available in the atelier). One pose will be maintained for the whole session, so that it is also possible to paint in watercolor, oil, etc. For the breaks we will offer some drinks and snacks. Free snacks and non-alcoholic drinks are available. Registration through this Meetup is suggested but not required. You can pay the 12 Euros fees in cash upon arrival. For more information, feel free to send email at info@viennaatelier.com Looking forward to see you soon! ============================= Die Porträtsitzungen am Sonntag beginnen um 15 Uhr. Bringe Bleistift, Papier und andere Materialen selbst mit, Staffeleien & Bretter gibt es im Atelier. Die gleiche Pose wird, unterbrochen von kleinen Pausen, über den gesamten Zeitraum beibehalten, daher ist es auch gut möglich mit Aquarell, Öl, usw. zu malen. Kostenlose Snacks und alkoholfreie Getränke stehen zur Verfügung. Eine Anmeldung über dieses Meetup wird empfohlen, ist aber nicht erforderlich. Sie können die 12 Euro Gebühr beim Ankommen in bar bezahlen. Für weitere Informationen senden Sie bitte eine E-Mail an info@viennaatelier.com

If you want to experience the quintessential Austrian alpine landscape - lush meadows framed by towering mountain peaks, the sound of cowbells, crystal-clear mountain lakes, and charming mountain huts - all within a day trip from Vienna, then the Hochschwab mountain range is one of the best destinations you can choose. Join a small group of like-minded hikers for a full-day adventure on June 13 (Saturday) and immerse yourself in the scenic alpine landscape of Hochschwab massif. **🤔 FITNESS LEVEL** Although this full-day adventure requires no technical skills, **you should have solid endurance to comfortably complete a \~30 km route with around 1100 m of elevation gain and descent within approximately 9 hours**, including lunch and photo breaks. If you are new to hiking, it is recommended to join shorter or less demanding hikes first to better assess your fitness and hiking ability. 🌄 **WHAT TO EXPECT** We’ll meet at Wien Hauptbahnhof train station, then take almost 2-hour train ride to Bruck an der Mur, \~30-min bus ride to Tragöß and follow a scenic route through alpine meadows (Klammboden, Sackwiesenalm, Sonnschienalm, Hörndlalm, Kulmalm, Neuwald-Alm, Jassing-Alm, Pfarreralm) in the Hochschwab mountain range: * Green lake (Grüner See) 💧 * Scenic limestone gorge (Klamm) 🏞️ * Lush alpine meadows 🌿 * Sackwiesensee mountain lake 💧 * Pastoral scenery with grazing cows 🐄 * Mountain huts 🏡 * Hochschwab mountain range peaks ⛰️ * Karstic landscape 🏞️ * Seasonal wetlands 💧 * Finish back in Tragöß 🚏 📊 **HIKE DETAILS** \~30 km \| \+1100 m elevation gain Difficulty: Easy (T1/T2) – no technical skills required 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 **GROUP DYNAMICS** We stay together as a group and regroup at key junctions. No one gets left behind. No navigation needed from participants. 🧳 **WHAT TO BRING** * Water (2-3L) 💧 * Snacks / lunch 🥪 * Fully charged phone 📱 * Sunscreen ☀️ * First aid kit 🩹 * Warm layers 🧦 * Hiking / trail running shoes 🥾 📍**MEETING POINT** Wien Hauptbahnhof train station – 06:00 (WB1001 leaves at 06:15, \~2-hour train ride to Bruck an der Mur, \~30-min bus (175) ride to Tragöß, arrival at 9:00) 📍 **END POINT** Tragöß bus stop – by 18:00 (bus leaves at 18:00, back to Bruck an der Mur, from where we take RJX 132 back to Vienna, arrival to Wien Hauptbahnhof at 21:07) 🌦️ **WEATHER** The hike is weather-dependent and may be cancelled in case of bad conditions. ⚠️ **PARTICIPATION & RESPONSIBILITY** This is a casual, self-organized hike. You join at your own responsibility. Please ensure you’re comfortable with the distance and elevation, bring appropriate gear (especially footwear, water, and snacks), and take care of your own safety during the hike.

Solidarity Sundays is a monthly gathering for Americans in Vienna who want to do more than watch — we dig into what’s happening to U.S. democracy and what we can do about it from here. Join us for our June session. Topic and location to be confirmed. Questions? Contact: solidaritysundaysvienna@gmail.com Email us at solidaritysundaysvienna@gmail.com or RSVP on our [website](https://www.democratsabroad.org/blc/at_2026_events_solsun-6) to let us know you're coming!

Hi everyone, On **Sunday, June 14th, 2026**, I'm planning a scenic circular hike from **Payerbach** with beautiful views of **Rax** and **Schneeberg**. This hike is all about walking and experiencing the landscape together, with plenty of time for conversation, short breaks, and simply being outdoors. **Hike Details:** **Distance:** approx. 12 km **Elevation Gain:** approx. 550 m **Walking Time:** approx. 5 hours **Difficulty:** While the hike is technically mostly easy, please make sure you are comfortable with the fitness requirements of the distance combined with the elevation gain. More information about the route: [https://www.bahn-zum-berg.at/rax-co/rundwanderung-payerbach/](https://www.bahn-zum-berg.at/rax-co/rundwanderung-payerbach/) **Meeting Point & Travel** **Meeting Time:** 08:30 at **Bahnhof Meidling**, downstairs near the ticket machines and travel information centre, to organise the *Einfach-Raus* group tickets. We will take the train departing at **09:05** directly to **Payerbach**. If you arrive too late for the group ticket arrangement, please purchase your own ticket before boarding the train. For many participants, the **VOR Freizeit-Ticket** may be a good option. We aim to catch the train departing **Payerbach at 16:57** back to Vienna. **What to expect** * We will walk together at a relaxed, social pace and stay as a group throughout the day. * This is not a race or a performance hike. As long as you have the basic fitness required for this route, the focus is on shared experience, conversation, and enjoying the landscape at an unhurried pace. * We will take regular short breaks whenever useful. * We do not plan to stop at huts or restaurants during the hike, so please bring your own food and drinks (approximately **2 litres** of water recommended). * Weather conditions can change quickly in the mountains, so basic rain protection is recommended. * Please wear sturdy **hiking shoes**. Depending on recent weather, some sections may be muddy. **For safety reasons, I reserve the right to refuse participation on the day if footwear is not suitable for the conditions.** * Please bring **sun protection** (hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses), especially on warm or sunny days. * Toilet facilities are available on the train and in Payerbach before and after the hike. **Important Note** ⚠️ **Disclaimer:** As always, this is a free, private leisure activity. I am not a certified hiking guide, and participation is entirely at your own responsibility and risk. I will send a weather update on **Thursday evening** to everyone who has registered. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me. Looking forward to sharing this hike with you! Jörg **\*The "Einfach-raus" Group Ticket** We will use a group ticket, and it requires some coordination: **How it works:** It is one ticket for a group of 2–5 people. We will form these groups at the meeting point at 08:30; please be on time if you want to participate. You must travel together for both the departure and the return journey. You cannot split off and take a different train home if you are on a group ticket. **The cost:** The more people in a group, the cheaper it gets. Expect to pay between €10 and €19 per person. To be fair, we can either pay by specific group size or pool all the money and split it equally. **Cash is mandatory:** Please bring physical cash and coins. We need to collect the money before buying the tickets to make sure everyone gets their change back quickly. **Information regarding this ticket:** [https://www.oebb.at/en/tickets-kundenkarten/freizeit-urlaub/einfach-raus-ticket](https://www.oebb.at/en/tickets-kundenkarten/freizeit-urlaub/einfach-raus-ticket) If you prefer not to be tied to a group, or if you aren’t sure when you want to head back to Vienna, do not join the group ticket. Instead, buy the VOR Freizeitticket; it costs €19.90 for the day in Lower Austria. This will also be your option if you arrive too late for the group ticket or one group doesn't have enough participants for a group ticket. **Information regarding this ticket:** [https://www.vor.at/en/tickets/ticket-overview/leisure-ticket](https://www.vor.at/en/tickets/ticket-overview/leisure-ticket)

(Deutsch unten.) Saturday's figure drawing/painting session starts at 3pm. Bring pencil, paper and any other utensils you may need. Easels & boards are available in the atelier. The long pose will be maintained for about 5 times 20 minutes, so that it is also possible to paint in watercolor, oil, etc. Free snacks and non-alcoholic drinks are available. Registration through this Meetup is suggested but not required. You can pay the 12 Euros fees in cash upon arrival. For more information, feel free to send email at info@viennaatelier.com ============================= Das Aktzeichnen und Malen am Samstag beginnt um 15 Uhr. Bringen Sie Bleistift, Papier und andere Materialen mit. Staffeleien & Bretter gibt es im Atelier. Die lange Pose ist etwa 5 mal 20 Minuten lang, daher ist es auch gut möglich mit Aquarell, Öl, usw. zu malen. Kostenlose Snacks und alkoholfreie Getränke stehen zur Verfügung. Eine Anmeldung über dieses Meetup wird empfohlen, ist aber nicht erforderlich. Sie können die 12 Euro Gebühr beim Ankommen in bar bezahlen. Für weitere Informationen senden Sie bitte eine E-Mail an info@viennaatelier.com

🚴‍♀️🍒 One-Day Cycling Adventure from Vienna to the Cherry Garden 🍒🚴‍♂️ Join us for an unforgettable day of cycling, nature, fresh air, and sweet cherries! 🌳☀️🌿 Ride along peaceful cycling routes through the beautiful landscapes of eastern Austria, enjoy a relaxing group atmosphere, and reward yourself with freshly picked cherries straight from the garden! 🍒✨ 📅 Date: Sunday, June 14, 2026 🕗 Departure: 08:00 AM 🕖 Return: Around 07:00 PM 📍 Destination: Cherry Garden (Kirschengarten) 🍒 🚴 Distance: Approx. 35–40 km (one way) ⭐ Difficulty Level: Moderate 💪 Suitable for adults with normal fitness levels 🌿 What to expect? ✅ Scenic cycling routes ✅ Beautiful natural landscapes ✅ Fresh cherries straight from the trees 🍒 ✅ Relaxing breaks in nature 🌳 ✅ Fun group experience 🤝 ✅ Active and healthy day outdoors ☀️ 👥 Limited spots: Only 8 participants 📝 Registration required 💶 Participation fee: €5 ❤️ 100% of the participation fee will be donated to support children in need of medical treatment. 📩 Contact us for registration and detailed tour information. 🚲 Don't forget to bring your bicycle! 🍒🌳☀️ Ride • Relax • Pick Cherries • Enjoy Nature • Make New Friends ☀️🌳🍒 #CyclingTour #Vienna #CherryGarden #CyclingAdventure #OutdoorLife #NatureLovers #Austria #BikeRide #CherryPicking #ActiveLifestyle #WeekendAdv

Discover the fairytale-like Lövérek hills just outside Sopron (HU) with crystal clear air and pleasant alpine climate. Following enchanting trails through a dense forest, we'll stop at Károly kilátó, a stone-made lookout tower and Taródi vár, a legendary castle built by one man. In the depth of the forest, we'll also pass the historic Trianon memorial site. Price includes organization, train tickets and friendly host. To secure your spots, please ... Step 1: RSVP here on Meetup first (optional but recommended) Step 2: Complete your booking at https://vienna.ixpat.com/sopron

We'll meet at the flagpole in the **Ridgeview Middle School** parking lot (4241 Rudy Rd). Parking there is fine on Sundays. From the school, we cross OH-315 and the Olentangy River via the **Olentangy Trail Pedestrian Bridge**, then walk past **Whetstone Pond** and through **Columbus Park of Roses**, turning back at the **Whetstone Branch of Columbus Metropolitan Library**. About 4 miles round trip, roughly 1.5 hours. Click [this Google Maps link](https://maps.app.goo.gl/jPCyEUyA2st8uWks5?g_st=i) to view the route. All paces welcome. See you there.

We meet at lunch each week and each meeting follows a fairly organized agenda. First all participants pass their business cards around. Then each member and guest is invited to give a one-minute overview of their company and what is a perfect referral for the week. We always have a 10 minute presentation from one of the members about their business in more detail. And finally we pass referrals. You're welcome to visit. Nobody is ever put on the spot. Bring plenty of cards!

Bring your Raspberry Pi, Arduino, microcontroller, or any other electronic project and join fellow electronics makers for a night of creativity and collaboration! This session is open forum to share your current projects—whether complete or in progress, it’s all interesting! Whether you’re deep into embedded systems, exploring new ideas, or just getting started, you’ll find a welcoming space to collaborate, share, and get inspired. **New to electronics or curious about tinkering?** You’re absolutely welcome. If you’re a beginner and want to experiment, I’ll have a couple of starter kits available so you can try things out—whether that’s blinking your first LED, putting something on a display, or experimenting with simple sensors. No pressure and no experience required—just an interest in learning and building. While we continue to pursue a more permanent venue for this Meetup, we’ll be using public library facilities based on availability. This session will be at the Worthington Park Library in the Olentangy Meeting Room.

Click Here For More Videos: https://www.facebook.com/share/r/17bwkttXhV/ *********************************** Salsamante Dance Academy will be at Swerve Every Tuesday Night to share the Rhythm & Energy of Bachata & Salsa. These are Beginner Level lessons to get you comfortable and understand the two dances. Spread the Good News to all. Swerve Dance & Fitness Complex 640 Lakeview Plaza Blvd A, Worthington, OH 43085 Bachata 7pm-8pm Salsa 8pm-9pm $15 - One Lesson $20 - Both Lessons

**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.