Weekend Hikes

🌊 BLUE TRIBE – UAE CAMPING & SNORKELING WEEKEND Snoopy Island & Sharm Rock – Fujairah 📅 9 – 11 January Let’s start a new hobby for the new year — camping, snorkeling, and great company! 📍 Departure from Dubai 🕕 Arrive Friday evening 🕑 Return Sunday around 2:00 PM 💵 Cost: 150 AED per person Includes: ✔️ Snorkeling kit ✔️ Snorkeling training ✔️ Refreshments 🏕 Camping 🍽 Bring your own food for grilling ⛺ Tents available for rent: 50 AED per person 🔥 Shared campfire area 🐠 Snorkel Snoopy Island 🐟 Explore Sharm Rock ✨ Relax, enjoy nature, and make new friends 📲 Booking & info: Call / WhatsApp: 0562377332 Limited spots — first come, first served!

BRUNCH and Weekend Vibes at Querida Mexican & Friends 🌮 Join us this weekend for a relaxed Mexican-style brunch in the heart of Al Barsha. Location : https://maps.app.goo.gl/i3vLDu4aaRkq5ZGcA Menu: https://qr.emenu.ae/querida/#/en/category/32795 Fresh tacos, classic plates, and cozy vibes 📍 Querida Mexican & Friends , Al Barsha

🌟 End-of-Year Group Trip: Rio & Medellín! 🌟 We're hosting two separate 7-day trips so you can choose your adventure! 🇧🇷 Rio de Janeiro Trip: A full 7-day itinerary 🇨🇴 Medellín Trip: A full 7-day itinerary [https://eseek.app/grouptrips/](https://eseek.app/grouptrips/) If you are genuinely interested in attending and have money to go join the group with the hosts. [https://discord.gg/Wd3C62fs](https://discord.gg/Wd3C62fs) Do one or combine them both! What's included in each $250 package? ✔️ 7 days of guided tours & activities ✔️ Exclusive nightlife access ✔️ Daytime adventures (beaches, tours, etc.) ✔️ Amazing boat parties ✔️ Your fun and expert guide Please Note: Cost is $250 USD per person, per city. This price does not include flights or accommodation. Join our fortnightly Google Meet calls with the hosts to get all the details and get excited! Our group trip is on the app [https://eseek.app](https://eseek.app) Make new friends before the trip with our new interactive community board. Receive Daily hangout suggestions to make new friends before the upcoming group trip

ALL WEEKENDS FAMILY SPORTS AND FITNESS TIME AT JK ULTIMATE FAMILY SPORTS. Entry Fee : Free for Members. 30 to 50AED per family for Non Members Time : 10AM to 12PM or 6PM to 8PM Transportation: Free transport is available for Members. 20 to 30AED for Non members from nearest Metro or Bus stops.

Outdoor hiit workout

**Note : Registration is confirmed only through [MeetNtrain](https://meetntrain.com/community/Volleyballpartners)** [WhatsApp Group ](https://chat.whatsapp.com/IPwYiB48lTz8Ud3pVdrGAc) Get ready for an exciting evening of **beach volleyball** on soft sand! 🌴🏐 Whether you're a total beginner or a seasoned pro, this fun and friendly game welcomes all skill levels. Come play, vibe, and enjoy the energy! **📍 Location:** Kite Beach - Dubai **🕘 Time:** 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM (2 hours of play) ⏳ *Spots limited to 18 players – secure your spot early!* ⏱ *Note: Timing may change – join the [WhatsApp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/IPwYiB48lTz8Ud3pVdrGAc) for updates.* **💵 Fee:** 40 AED per player **✅ What’s Included:** * Cold water 💧 * International music with high-quality sound 🎶 * Guided games & refereeing by your host, Noah 🎤 📲 *Join our WhatsApp group for full details & to confirm your spot!* **📬 Contact:** Reach out via WhatsApp or email to confirm your participation. **[Book Now](https://meetntrain.com/community/Volleyballpartners)** **Noah : 0504746210**

Don't have a group, completely fine. badminton sessions for all levels.. Aed 45 for two hours, aed 28 for one hour come and play with us. teams will beade on levels to have exciting matched contact no +971 50 6658 933 join below WhatsApp group for regular updates. [https://chat.whatsapp.com/L5XeBmwIJ33GNRli4CF7Bc](https://chat.whatsapp.com/L5XeBmwIJ33GNRli4CF7Bc)

Since this is an intermediate 5-6 hours hike with steep elevation, there is a specific fitness criteria. Please message me for more details. **8 km** full loop with 500 m elevation gain; expect **4–6 h** of scrambling, steep ascents and spectacular canyon scenery. Meet at **06:00 AM**. Bring plenty of water (3 L), snacks, gloves and proper hiking boots. This trail is strenuous—hike at your own risk. **General guidelines (apply to all events):** * **Arrive by 05:55 AM** to meet the group and depart at 06:00 AM. * Carry **2–3 L of water**, snacks or a light breakfast, a hat, sunscreen, and a small first‑aid kit. * Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good grip; trekking poles are optional for longer hikes. * Inform a friend or family member of your plans and check weather forecasts (avoid wadis after heavy rain). * This is a **free, peer‑led group**; everyone is responsible for their own safety and participation is at your **own risk**. \*\*Please join the Whatsapp Group for carpooling/coordination (optional)\*\*[https://chat.whatsapp.com/G8dODdCiBMrC5jiholOK6X](https://chat.whatsapp.com/G8dODdCiBMrC5jiholOK6X)

**Trip**: Morning Hike Shawka Pools **When**: Sun\, 11 Jan 2026 \| 6:30 AM – 11:00 AM **Where**: RAK **Difficulty Level**: Beginner+. Suitable for Families and children above 10 Years. **Trip Details**: Let's enjoy the morning sunshine with beautiful mountain views! This is relatively easy hike follows an established trail where the weather is expected to be cool and breezy. Perfect for families looking to enjoy the outdoors together. **Plan**: · Leave Dubai early morning and reach the meeting point around sunrise. · Park the cars at the base of mountain and start the hike · Hikers return to the cars by around 11.00 AM and drive back home **Preparation:** 1. Suitable hiking clothes (Full sleeve shirt/Top and full pants are always recommended) 2. Sun Hat, Scarf etc. for sun protection, as most of the trail is exposed. 3. At least 2-3 liters of water/fluids for the hike. 4. Fruits/Dry fruits/snacks 5. Suitable hiking footwear/Boots. 6. First Aid pack **Transportation**: Your own transportation. Any type of car is suitable to reach the hike start point. In case you do not have a transportation, please contact the organizers and we may be able to arrange something. **Inclusions:** 1. overall lead, guidance, support and directions for the event, including for hike **Exclusions:** 1. Food and drinks for the event - it’s a self-catering event 2. Transportation, it's a self-driving event, however, we can arrange a carpool for you for an additional contribution. 3. Any other gear or equipment. **Disclaimer**: Standard AE disclaimer and terms of membership apply Please remember that all adventure sports. 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 wellbeing and safety. Hence YOU have to take full responsibility for the same.

Join us for an amazing double-threat event: an easy hike and a refreshing swim, all set against the stunning backdrop of Khorfakkan's coastline! This is your perfect escape—we handle the planning, you enjoy the experience. Event Charge: 100 AED (Guided hike, light snacks and beach swim time. To receive the meeting point, itinerary, and all essential details, join our event WhatsApp group https://chat.whatsapp.com/GS92K6bK6v0FFjvT42mZIw Secure your spot and get ready for a memorable morning! 🌊🥾

**History** [Blacklick Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blacklick-woods/), established in 1949, holds the distinction of being the first Columbus Metro Park. Its creation stemmed from a post-World War II push to preserve natural areas amid rapid suburban growth. The land, originally farmland and woodlots along Blacklick Creek, was acquired by the Columbus Metropolitan Park Board through donations and purchases. Early efforts focused on basic trail development and reforestation to combat erosion. The park's name derives from the creek, which early settlers called "Black Lick" due to its dark, mineral-rich waters. By the 1950s, it served as a model for the expanding Metro Parks system. In the 1960s, Blacklick Woods expanded significantly with additional land acquisitions, reaching over 600 acres. A golf course was added in 1964, one of the first public courses in the region, designed to generate revenue for park maintenance. Native American artifacts, including arrowheads from the Adena culture, were discovered during construction, highlighting the area's prehistoric use as hunting grounds. The park introduced interpretive programs to educate visitors on local ecology and history. Flood control measures along the creek became a priority after heavy rains caused damage. These developments solidified its role as a recreational hub. The 1970s and 1980s brought environmental awareness, leading to habitat restoration projects at Blacklick Woods. Invasive species were removed, and native wildflowers were planted in the meadows. A nature center opened in 1976, featuring exhibits on wetlands and forests. The park's slate-covered bridge, a remnant of 19th-century infrastructure, was preserved as a historic feature. Birdwatching gained popularity with the addition of observation decks. Community volunteers played a key role in trail maintenance and cleanups. During the 1990s, Blacklick Woods underwent major upgrades, including paved multi-use trails for biking and hiking. The Walter A. Tucker Nature Preserve, a 53-acre old-growth forest within the park, was dedicated in 1995 to protect rare beech-maple woodlands. Educational partnerships with local schools introduced field trips on topics like stream ecology. The golf course was renovated to improve playability while minimizing environmental impact. Annual events, such as the fall festival, drew thousands to celebrate the park's natural beauty. These enhancements balanced recreation with conservation. In the 21st century, Blacklick Woods has adapted to increasing visitation with sustainable practices. Solar panels were installed at facilities in the 2010s to reduce energy costs. The park now spans 643 acres, offering diverse habitats from wetlands to uplands. Recent initiatives include pollinator gardens and prescribed burns to maintain prairie areas. It remains a flagship for the Metro Parks, inspiring similar preservations system-wide. Ongoing archaeological surveys continue to uncover traces of early inhabitants. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Blacklick Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BLK-map-May-2025-with-extended-greenway_1980px.jpg). **Summary** For this event, we will hike about 4.5 miles by doing a couple loops of the Buttonbush, Tucker, Maple Loop, and Beech trails. Blacklick Woods is a very nice park, but it is generally flat and not strenuous, so this will be one of the easier hikes that we do. **Where We'll Meet** Drive all the way to the back of the park to the parking lot that is nearest the Nature Center. There are restrooms here next to the Canopy Walk. We'll meet near these restrooms. Speaking of the [Canopy Walk](https://www.metroparks.net/blog/canopy-walk-is-your-gateway-to-the-sky/), it's not officially part of the event this time. However, if interested people want to freelance and check it out after the hike (before heading to the brewery), that's okay. **After the Hike** After we're done with the trails, we'll head to [Prost Beer & Wine Café](https://prostcafe.com/) for drinks and [food](https://prostcafe.com/reynoldsburg-prost-beer-and-wine-cafe-food-menu). The actual address of the brewery is [7354 E Main St, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068](https://www.google.com/maps/place/7354+E+Main+St,+Reynoldsburg,+OH+43068/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x8838648cfb8d2dbb:0x545274bab130e9bb?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and we should be there by 5:00 if you just want to do that and skip the hike.

***(She loves me!)* A Brief History of Quarry Trails** [Quarry Trails Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/quarry-trails/) traces its origins to a vast limestone quarry operated by the Marble Cliff Quarry Company starting in the early 20th century. The site, located along the Scioto River west of downtown, supplied crushed stone for local construction projects and roads throughout central Ohio. Operations peaked mid-century, with massive excavation creating deep pits and steep cliffs that reshaped the landscape. By the 1980s, demand declined, and the southern section of the quarry closed (with the northern section of the quarry remaining in operation to this day by a separate company), leaving behind scarred terrain and abandoned equipment. Environmental concerns arose as the area became a dumping ground and off-road playground for locals. Columbus Metro Parks began eyeing the property in the 1990s for potential reclamation into public green space. In 2015, Metro Parks acquired the initial 180 acres from the quarry's owners, marking a pivotal step toward transformation. Thrive Companies, a local developer, partnered in the deal to build adjacent housing while funding park improvements. Cleanup efforts removed tons of debris, stabilized cliffs, and addressed water quality in the flooded quarries. Planners envisioned a mix of adventure and preservation, incorporating the site's industrial remnants as features. Community input from nearby Grandview Heights and Hilliard residents shaped early designs. The project gained momentum with state and federal grants supporting habitat restoration. The park officially opened its first phase in November 2021, featuring 3.5 miles of trails, a waterfall overlook, and climbing walls on the quarry faces. Visitors quickly embraced the unique terrain, with mountain biking loops and a 25-foot waterfall drawing crowds from across the metro area. Metro Parks added a canoe/kayak launch on the Scioto River, connecting to the city's broader trail network. Dog parks and picnic areas rounded out the amenities, making it a year-round destination. Expansion continued with land acquisitions pushing the total toward 600 acres. By 2023, the park hosted events like guided hikes and birdwatching tours. Ongoing development includes a planned adventure center with zip lines and more extensive single-track trails set for completion in the coming years. Metro Parks collaborates with conservation groups to plant native species and monitor wildlife returning to the reclaimed quarries. The site now serves as an educational hub, with interpretive signs explaining its quarrying past and ecological recovery. Local schools incorporate field trips to study geology and restoration science. Quarry Trails exemplifies Columbus's shift from industrial reuse to innovative urban parks. It stands as the newest addition to the Metro Parks system, complementing favorites like Scioto Audubon and Highbanks. Today, Quarry Trails continues evolving, with future phases adding connections to the Olentangy Trail and more water access points. Annual visitor numbers have surged, boosting nearby businesses in the evolving west side neighborhoods. The park's success has inspired similar reclamation projects elsewhere in the region. It highlights how Columbus balances growth with green space preservation. Residents enjoy a one-of-a-kind spot that honors the area's gritty history while offering modern recreation. Quarry Trails remains a testament to community vision and adaptive reuse in our city. ***(She loves me not.)* A Briefer History of Valentine's Day** The origins of Valentine's Day trace back to ancient Rome and the festival of Lupercalia, celebrated in mid-February to honor fertility and purification rites. During this raucous event, young men drew names of women from a box in a matchmaking lottery, often leading to pairings or marriages. By the late 5th century, Pope Gelasius I officially replaced Lupercalia with St. Valentine's Day on February 14 to Christianize the pagan holiday. Although several early Christian martyrs were named Valentine, the most commonly associated figure is a 3rd-century Roman priest who secretly married couples against Emperor Claudius II's ban on young men marrying, believing single soldiers fought better. Legend claims Valentine was imprisoned and later executed on February 14, around 269–270 AD. The romantic associations with Valentine's Day emerged much later, during the Middle Ages. The pivotal moment came in the late 14th century when Geoffrey Chaucer, in his poem "Parlement of Foules" (c. 1381), linked St. Valentine's Day with courtship, writing that birds chose their mates on this date. This literary connection spread rapidly among the English and French nobility, transforming the saint's feast day into a celebration of romantic love. By the 15th century, lovers began exchanging handwritten notes called "valentines," often containing verses or simple declarations of affection. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Valentine's Day became increasingly commercialized, especially in England and later the United States. The introduction of printed valentines in the 1840s, pioneered by Esther Howland in America, turned personal notes into mass-produced cards adorned with lace, ribbons, and Cupid imagery. Factories began producing elaborate cards, and the tradition of giving flowers (especially roses), chocolates, and jewelry took hold during the Victorian era. Today, February 14 is one of the most widely celebrated secular holidays worldwide, generating billions in spending on cards, candy, flowers, and romantic dinners. While still officially the feast day of Saint Valentine in some Christian traditions, the modern version has largely shed its religious roots in favor of universal expressions of love and friendship. From ancient fertility rites to global commercial phenomenon, Valentine's Day has evolved dramatically over two millennia while retaining its core focus on human connection. ***(She loves me!)* Map of the Park** Here is a [Map of Quarry Trails](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Quarry-Trails_JUNE-2025_1980px-Web.jpg). ***(She loves me not.)* Summary** For this hike, we'll do a loop of the park. This will be about four miles. Now, this won't be one of our longer hikes. However, in my experience, Quarry Trails tends to wear people out more quickly than other parks. I suspect this is because most of the trails are either paved or heavily graveled (no surprise at a park which abuts an active stone quarry), with some elevation changes along the way. ***(She loves me!)* Where We'll Meet** Quarry Trails has multiple entrances, but none of them are connected internally within the park. So you must drive to the correct one for this event. Set your GPS to [2319 Quarry Trails Dr, Hilliard, OH 43026](https://www.google.com/maps/place/2319+Quarry+Trails+Dr,+Hilliard,+OH+43026/@39.9998462,-83.0873077,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x883891dd76f5eedf:0xf1cb9d34c1069580!8m2!3d39.9997868!4d-83.0872621!16s%2Fg%2F11y17k0ms5?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), or use the map pin I've provided here. Do not just type "Quarry Trails" into Google Maps and expect it to take you to the correct place. It probably won't. We will meet in the parking lot of the Lake Area. The best entrance to this parking lot will be your first left off of Quarry Trails Dr after Gunnison Dr (which will be on your right). I recommend taking a few minutes and looking at Maps before you head out to make sure you know where you're going. ***(So walk with me...)* Restrooms and Water Fountains** There are a few port-a-potties sprinkled throughout the park (including two at the parking lot we'll be meeting at), and the Park Office, roughly in the center of the park and which we'll pass twice on this hike, has restrooms and a water fountain. This is the only water fountain, though, at Quarry Trails. ***(At Trails Quarry!*)** **After the Hike** Afterward, we'll head over to [Johnnie's Tavern](https://johnniestavern614.com/) for [drinks](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Johnnie's+Tavern/@39.993202,-83.0903169,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m8!1e2!3m6!1sCIABIhAulLarLYZC3hY_vRGwoakV!2e10!3e12!6shttps:%2F%2Flh3.googleusercontent.com%2Fgps-cs-s%2FAG0ilSzkwnMN29-lrgzp50Rzeaq5jXCGM1xLS1poH0Mc52-E9NYBvdS99ei7zGmlAYJZyk8OeNW5YvS7agj8M2Bom4ri1m_-NcJiT-LQUDphkS-SB5Vq8JhO-8NSP-_m80HeLz4-pGhjrwhuBKSv%3Dw146-h195-k-no!7i4284!8i5712!4m7!3m6!1s0x883891c4d61ba04d:0x5134f225cbf678bf!8m2!3d39.9932439!4d-83.0902078!10e9!16s%2Fg%2F11c1p57s3t?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) and [food](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Johnnie's+Tavern/@39.993202,-83.0903169,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m8!1e2!3m6!1sCIABIhB5lD4Uly_4O9BjNH4r3ywB!2e10!3e12!6shttps:%2F%2Flh3.googleusercontent.com%2Fgps-cs-s%2FAG0ilSy7tQcc7CtCeuUAKwEVJoxtOs8Ycohjy3mGZZOC_kJVdB8wEaGuC4-p5z_jxn2JnpmSEkh_HG7Aok_ZPEgmK57rEBqNIPH8J5tiyAP5vbrRYkUso_fKTkW5vJc47UusNoGiRzs2Vf0m1JcV%3Dw146-h195-k-no!7i4284!8i5712!4m7!3m6!1s0x883891c4d61ba04d:0x5134f225cbf678bf!8m2!3d39.9932439!4d-83.0902078!10e9!16s%2Fg%2F11c1p57s3t?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). Its actual address is [3503 Trabue Rd, Columbus, OH 43204](https://www.google.com/maps/place/3503+Trabue+Rd,+Columbus,+OH+43204/@39.9932491,-83.090227,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x883891c4d6199677:0x1fda03b0add81e7c!8m2!3d39.9932491!4d-83.090227!16s%2Fg%2F11c14yf3m6?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), and it's only about a five minute drive from where we'll be parked at Quarry Trails. We should be at the tavern by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to meet us for drinks.

Hike approx 4.0 miles at approx. 18 minute mile pace. Meet in front of the Nature Center.