Skip to content

Wilderness Hiking

Meet other local people interested in Wilderness Hiking: share experiences, inspire and encourage each other! Join a Wilderness Hiking group.
pin icon
15,996
members
people1 icon
6
groups

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! Check out wilderness hiking events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.

Discover all the wilderness hiking events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.

Absolutely! Find wilderness hiking events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.

Wilderness Hiking Events Today

Join in-person Wilderness Hiking events happening right now

Eberswalde (Hike 🍃🍃 with Coffee at the end in the town 🏘️) 15 Kms
Eberswalde (Hike 🍃🍃 with Coffee at the end in the town 🏘️) 15 Kms
2 EURO DONATION FEE PER PERSON IS REQUIRED (on site, in cash), to pay back the Meetup subscription fees and support my Events. READ THE DESCRIPTION WITH THE INFO (IMPORTANT). WHATSAPP LINK BELOW 📳​ We take the RE3 train that arrives to Eberswalde at 11,02 🚉😀 and stops in Berlin Hbf at 10,23 The train stops not only in Berlin Hbf (I attach below the screenshots with the stations and the timetable 🕐) Once in Eberwalde station, we follow this route 🍃🍃 [https://www.komoot.com/tour/2383133702](https://www.komoot.com/tour/2383133702) Bring your own food 🍔 and water 🥤, for the about 15kms of Hike. After the Hike, we come back to Eberswalde town center 🏘️ to take a coffee ☕ or a cake 🍰 here, for the people who want (the others can directly take the first train to come back to Berlin): [https://maps.app.goo.gl/YeLEY8FFMWsSLwtv6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/YeLEY8FFMWsSLwtv6) One train per hour is available to come back to Berlin 🚉 NFO ℹ️ℹ️ Route distance: 15 kms Pace: about 14 minutes per km (know by experience with my events) Breaks ⛔: 2 breaks at approximately 1/3 and 2/3 of the way I do not provide a "personal support" for people who do not take the indicated train. You are responsible to check for the weather and decide if come or not. Thanks for understanding. If you have to contact me, make it via Whatsapp, not here on Meetup. WHATSAPP COMMUNITY 💬 to find each other (join it, we use this group to find and synchronize us, as well as post photos) [https://docs.google.com/document/d/157uLVXObKt1a4NqqvPa09NJW-050YBwHLW-7DbOD8R8/](https://docs.google.com/document/d/157uLVXObKt1a4NqqvPa09NJW-050YBwHLW-7DbOD8R8/)
Sketching History on Museum Island
Sketching History on Museum Island
***Sketch Berlin’s iconic Museum Island with fellow artists while learning composition, linework & proportion in a relaxed outdoor session.*** **HOW DO I JOIN THIS EVENT?** Click on link below to get complete info and to sign up for this event by getting your ticket. [https://urbanaturetravel.com/event/museum-island-sketching-16may2026](https://urbanaturetravel.com/event/museum-island-sketching-16may2026) **SPECIAL OFFER FOR NEW USERS** * 10% New User Discount using promo code: **MEETUP10** * Valid for this trip or any other trips available on our website. **WHY GO?** * Join us, the afternoon of ***Saturday, May 16th at 13:00*** on Museum Island for an afternoon of sketching. We will meet in front of Humboldt Forum along Karl-Liebknecht Strasse to begin a day of deep seeing while improving our sketching skills. We’ll be meeting up with fellow ***Sketchers & Artists*** to practice our ***sketching skills while enjoying iconic historical architecture.*** We’ll be walking around to three separate sites on Museum Island where we will do guided warmups where we practice ***drawing composure, line weight, and proportion***. These practice warmups will come with an ***accompanying set of worksheets to help you get started on your sketching journey*** no matter if you are a beginner or a professional. You will receive feedback while you sketch by the instructor, and will have time to practice what you’ve learned before moving on to the next subject. Museum Island is a place rich in details for drawing. There is no shortage of subjects to spend your time studying, admiring, and drawing. * If this is your first time sketching or 100th time sketching, you can find subjects that are right for you. ***You don’t need to be a professional at all!*** You should just want to practice your sketching skills while meeting new people, and hopefully sketching a bit better than you did the day before. * If this is your first time to Museum Island, ***please be aware that this is a tourist destination***, and there will be tourists walking around in the area. * We will be stopping to do at least ***3 30 min sketches with the goal of improving our foundational drawing skills***. ***Composition, line weight and proportion are foundational skills that every artist needs to develop*** in order to simplify a scene while communicating the necessary details for a viewer to see and feel a scene or detail. These are sketching skills that can be applied across artistic mediums. * Bring your preferred drawing medium for 30 min ***sketches***, and meet up with fellow Berlin sketchers. There are benches in the area, but you may wish to bring a small chair or cushion to make things more comfortable. Many find that if this is their first time drawing, a simple B4 or B6 pencil, and plain white paper is best to learn on. Others who enjoy ink will benefit equally from instruction. * The drawings are purely for fun, and to get to know other artists and hobbyists in the area! * (This meet-up does *not* include entry to any of the museums on museum island) * Join us at 13:00 at the Humboldt Forum with our host - Elizabeth, we’ll get to know one another and then set out as a group to sketch around the island. We will sketch from 13:00-15:30, before going our separate ways. **FOR FUTURE TRIP UPADATES:** Please do join our WhatsApp/Telegram channel for updates about our future trips including possible early bird discounts, contests etc. 1. [WhatsApp Channel](https://go.unt.global/travelgroup) 2. [Telegram Channel](https://t.me/urbanaturetravel)
Founders Running Club :: Berlin
Founders Running Club :: Berlin
**Founders Running Club** (FRC) brings founders, investors, tech, creative people and startup enthusiasts together for weekly easy runs and networking. We like to be comfortable when we run and finish with coffee and conversations. Choose your pace or follow a pacer—pets, friends, family, are welcome. 🗓️ Launched in San Francisco, July 16, 2022 🌍 Now in 35+ cities 📅 Running + Networking events + Community **Join the community** [http://foundersrc.com/chats](http://foundersrc.com/chats) **Stay updated**: Instagram [http://instagram.com/foundersrc/](http://instagram.com/foundersrc/) Podcast [http://podcast.foundersrc.com/](http://podcast.foundersrc.com/) LinkedIn [http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/](http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/) Strava [http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC](http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC) Website [http://foundersrc.com/](http://foundersrc.com/)
FLINTA* Run Moabit Spreeufer
FLINTA* Run Moabit Spreeufer
We are exploring the running routes of our community members! Join us to explore Astrid’s area 🥰 On May 16 we’ll gather at U-Bahn Turmstraße at 11 am for another 5k run in Moabit. The meeting point - Bike Stands at Heilandskirche Church https://maps.app.goo.gl/KRupENA2g2raX1dXA Don’t worry if you are new! We run at a pace which is comfortable for everyone, so it’s a great chance to start 😉 Take care and see you soon to enjoy another active morning together ❤️ P.S. ‼️️ Please cancel your participation if you can’t show up, even if it’s at short notice so that we don’t wait for you. Thanks! ‼️
10K Three Parks Run - Come for the Run, Stay for the Goats!
10K Three Parks Run - Come for the Run, Stay for the Goats!
\*\*The run with the highest goat count in Berlin!!\*\* Join us for a run this Saturday! Whether minus temperatures, snow, rain or shine - we run! Enjoy the virtually traffic free route, and take time out to commune with the goats and lop-eared rabbits at two mini zoos we pass on the way. Your weekend is guaranteed to start right! Stretch your legs on Saturday morning with the three parks run in the north of Berlin. We meet on Brunnenstraße across the street from Gesundbrunnen Bhf at the edge of Volkspark Humboldthain, see the map pin! From there we run towards Mauerpark, then towards Pankow along the Mauerweg. Then through Bürgerpark Pankow and back along the Panke towards Volkspark Humboldthain. The route takes about an hour, depending on our pace Highlights: \- Volkspark Humboldthain steps to the top of Flakturm \- Mauerpark grafiti wall \- option for a short uphill\, or you can stay on the flat \- Mauerweg \- Goats and rabbits at the Mauerpark mini zoo \- Trail running \- Bürgerpark Pankow \- Saying hi to the goats in the park :\) \- Panke \(river\) \- Only 1 traffic light \(to cross Osloerstr\.\) We have some options to do and usually do some altitude, i.e. stairs, in the Humboldthain park and "hill" in Mauerpark! :) We have a few variations of the route that we sometimes do to keep things interesting, they add up to the same distance. Our pace is typically \~5.45 min/km, but we'll wait for everyone! Feel free to bring friends! There is also the option to finish up at Flying Roasters on Hochstraße for a coffee afterwards! Route: https://onthegomap.com/s/ttbndkk4
Co-founder Matching ⭐
Co-founder Matching ⭐
🤝 **Co-Founder Matching** ​Finding the right co-founder can change everything. ​Join us for an interactive networking session designed to connect founders, aspiring entrepreneurs, developers, creatives, and people looking to build something together. ​Whether you already have an idea and are searching for the right person to join you, or you’re looking to become part of a startup journey, this event is the perfect opportunity to meet like-minded people and explore potential collaborations. ​Through guided networking and open conversations, participants will have the chance to introduce themselves, share their interests and skills, and connect with others who complement their vision. *** # ​💡 What to Expect ​• Founder introductions • Guided networking • Conversations around ideas, skills, and goals • Meeting people with complementary strengths • Opportunities for future collaboration *** # ​🎯 Who Should Join ​• Founders looking for a co-founder • Developers & designers • Marketing & business enthusiasts • Aspiring entrepreneurs • Anyone interested in joining a startup journey *** # ​📅 Event Details ​📅 **May 16, 2026** ⏰ **13:00 – 15:30** 📍 **The Social Hub** ​See you there! Check out our websites: Company-[[Datenstrom-3ag.com](http://datenstrom-3ag.com/)]([https://datenstrom-3ag.com/?utm_source=luma](https://datenstrom-3ag.com/?utm_source=luma)) Application-[[Growfirma.com](http://growfirma.com/)]([https://growfirma.com/?utm_source=luma](https://growfirma.com/?utm_source=luma))
Peru Adventure: Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, Sea Lions
Peru Adventure: Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, Sea Lions
Peru: Coast to Clouds – Sea Lions, Machu Picchu & Rainbow Trails. **1 spot left** Would you like to go on unforgettable journey through Peru? where ancient legends, natural wonders, and thrilling adventures collide. This unique itinerary takes you from the vibrant streets of Lima to the mystical heights of the Andes, offering a rare blend of wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, and bucket-list experiences. ✅What’s Included: Shared accommodation (SEPARATE BED) Entrance & Guide Machu Picchu Experince swim with sea Lion Hike & Guide to Rainbow Mountain Francisco Monastery Catacombs Breakfast, Buffet lunch 1x Lima Walking tour **Date: 16-24 May 2026** Arrival Airport: Lima Airport Meet up: at the accommodation [Click here ](https://www.joinmytrip.com/en/trips/peru-discovery-adventure-machu-picchu-rainbow-mountain-sea-lions-Ufws)for more details or [DM me on WhatsApp here ](https://wa.me/393755267768)or Instagram [@windyrann_](https://www.instagram.com/windyrann_), if you are interested in joining!

Wilderness Hiking Events This Week

Discover what is happening in the next few days

Hike in the Lange Dammwiesen  12km
Hike in the Lange Dammwiesen 12km
Lange Dammwiesen und Annatal is a beautiful and scenic nature reserve in Brandenburg in the area of Strausberg. It has a mixture of dry grassland, wet meadows and forest. It has unique small hills in the shape of a dam. We will hike in this nature reserve. After the nature reserve we will pass the beautiful lakes Kleiner Stienitzsee and Stienitzsee. After 3 hours of hiking I plan to have a coffee but can't promise there will be something open. I am asking for a donation of 2€ for this event. **Good to know:** We will meet at the Station Strausberg (not Strausberg Stadt) **at 12pm** in front of the Service store/main station building. You need ABC-Ticket or Deutschland Ticket.
Nieplitz Hike: StĂźcken to Beelitz (17 km)
Nieplitz Hike: StĂźcken to Beelitz (17 km)
This Sunday's hike starts in StĂźcken, a village near the Nuthe-Nieplitz nature reserve. It features a bird-watching watchtower and maybe a stork in the village of KĂśrzin who has been living there for several years. Next comes a long stretch along the shore of the Nieplitz river into the town of Beelitz, where you can try its famous asparagus in a restaurant before taking the train back to Berlin. Meet us in the **first car of the train RE7**, departing from **Alexanderplatz station at 12:08 on platform 2 (direction Dessau),** **arriving at Michendorf (Mark) at 12:50, then taking the Bus 608 at 13:01 to StĂźcken (Dorf)** Unless you are subscribed to the Deutschlandticket, you'll need to buy a ticket to StĂźcken (Dorf). Please note: * As a grown-up, you are responsible for yourself. * Come prepared for cold and windy weather. * Wear appropriate footwear, we may come across some muddy sections. * Forecasts predict low chance of rain, but you never know... * Bring enough water, food and some cash with you. * Please be fair and only RSVP if you are sure you can make it and update if your plans change. See you on Sunday!
Hike - Lakes loop near Oderin - 17 Kms
Hike - Lakes loop near Oderin - 17 Kms
**Route:** [Link](https://www.komoot.com/tour/2955043547?ref=itd&share_token=ap7b44apshBXv9yZbxaMOqj1HmDLRPkQv5bobKaR8qtrs6g1oi&ref=its) **Walking Speed:** ~4.5 km/hr **Highlights:** KĂśthener See, Triftsee, Mittelsee, Schwanensee, and Wehlaberg Observation Tower. **General Notes:** Participants with past no-shows or unexplained cancellations on the event day will be deprioritized, and only confirmed RSVP may join the hike. Regular group members as well as hikers who show genuine intent could be given priority on the waiting list. We will take brief breaks for refreshments, but don't plan for coffee stops. Please bring your water, snacks, mosquito repellent, and dress suitably for the day's weather. Please make every effort to be on time. I'm not a professional guide and according to Meetup rules not liable for anyone's safety. If you can't make it, please be respectful enough to update your confirmation of participation in a timely manner to give those in waiting list a fair chance to prepare.
Creating Our Reality — Picnic Meetup
Creating Our Reality — Picnic Meetup
This event is for people who believe that our thoughts and feelings create our reality. This time we’re getting together in Treptower Park for a picnic to talk about our manifestations, the techniques we use, and also share books/meditations/author recommendations for anyone who’s interested and wants to dive deeper into the topic. Please bring a blanket, some food and drinks. **Meeting point**: Entrance to the S-Bahnhof Treptower Park (from the park side) **Please note: In case of rain, we’ll meet at [Presscafé am Alexanderplatz](https://share.google/t0SP7jNViEjKENSjn) (stay tuned for updates!).**
Fairytale Forest: Hike through the Mystical Landscape of Briesetal
Fairytale Forest: Hike through the Mystical Landscape of Briesetal
***Discover the mystical sunken birch forest, the valley and its unspoilt nature while hiking along river Briese.*** **HOW DO I JOIN THIS EVENT?** Click on link below to get complete info and to sign up for this event by getting your ticket. [https://urbanaturetravel.com/event/briesetal-fairytale-forest-17may2026](https://urbanaturetravel.com/event/briesetal-fairytale-forest-17may2026) **SPECIAL OFFER FOR NEW USERS** * 10% New User Discount using promo code: **MEETUP10** * Valid for this trip or any other trips available on our website. **WHY GO?** The Briesetal is one of Brandenburgs most scenic valleys, formed by river Briese. The quiet nature preservation area is home to mischievous beavers whose dams created a sunken birch forest. The valley is still dominated by unspoilt nature, seemingly untouched by humans. It's only a 40 minute train ride north of Berlin, making it the perfect day trip getaway from the city's hustling. Following the meandering river we traverse the mystical forest, walk on wooden planks through moors and marshes and explore natural habitats and endemic wildlife. On this hike, immerse yourself into nature’s wonder! Have you ever observed the tiny details of the outdoors? Such as the intricate veins on the back of a leaf? Or the delicate edges of flowers’ petals? Or the movement of a cheeky squirrel? On this walk, you will have the chance to truly connect with the natural world around you. No experience or preparation is needed, just your curiosity. You will be guided through every step of the way. **TRIP DETAILS** **Distance:** 13 km walking, 7 hours from start to closing, multiple break times **Hiking Difficulty:** Easy – walking on marked paths / dirt roads, mostly flat terrain, relaxed pace **Kid Friendly:** Yes **Pet Friendly:** Yes **What is included?** * Community Leader and Guide for the entire duration. * Guided hike. * Access to Google photos album dedicated for this trip for sharing all your amazing pictures and videos from the trip. * Access to a WhatsApp group for the confirmed participants. **Note:** Please contact us immediately if you do not have WhatsApp and we can make alternate arrangements from our end to ensure you do not miss out on any communication. **FOR FUTURE TRIP UPDATES:** Please do join our WhatsApp / Telegram channel for updates about our future trips including possible early bird discounts, contests etc. 1. [WhatsApp Channel](https://go.unt.global/travelgroup) 2. [Telegram Channel](https://t.me/urbanaturetravel)
Fairytale Forest: Hike through the Mystical Landscape of Briesetal
Fairytale Forest: Hike through the Mystical Landscape of Briesetal
***Discover the mystical sunken birch forest, the valley and its unspoilt nature while hiking along river Briese.*** **HOW DO I JOIN THIS EVENT?** Click on link below to get complete info and to sign up for this event by getting your ticket. [https://urbanaturetravel.com/event/briesetal-fairytale-forest-17may2026](https://urbanaturetravel.com/event/briesetal-fairytale-forest-17may2026) **SPECIAL OFFER FOR NEW USERS** * 10% New User Discount using promo code: **MEETUP10** * Valid for this trip or any other trips available on our website. **WHY GO?** The Briesetal is one of Brandenburgs most scenic valleys, formed by river Briese. The quiet nature preservation area is home to mischievous beavers whose dams created a sunken birch forest. The valley is still dominated by unspoilt nature, seemingly untouched by humans. It's only a 40 minute train ride north of Berlin, making it the perfect day trip getaway from the city's hustling. Following the meandering river we traverse the mystical forest, walk on wooden planks through moors and marshes and explore natural habitats and endemic wildlife. On this hike, immerse yourself into nature’s wonder! Have you ever observed the tiny details of the outdoors? Such as the intricate veins on the back of a leaf? Or the delicate edges of flowers’ petals? Or the movement of a cheeky squirrel? On this walk, you will have the chance to truly connect with the natural world around you. No experience or preparation is needed, just your curiosity. You will be guided through every step of the way. **TRIP DETAILS** **Distance:** 13 km walking, 7 hours from start to closing, multiple break times **Hiking Difficulty:** Easy – walking on marked paths / dirt roads, mostly flat terrain, relaxed pace **Kid Friendly:** Yes **Pet Friendly:** Yes **What is Included?** * Community Leader and Guide for the entire duration. * Guided hike. * Access to Google photos album dedicated for this trip for sharing all your amazing pictures and videos from the trip. * Access to a WhatsApp group for the confirmed participants. **Note:** Please contact us immediately if you do not have WhatsApp and we can make alternate arrangements from our end to ensure you do not miss out on any communication. **FOR FUTURE TRIP UPDATES:** Please do join our WhatsApp/Telegram channel for updates about our future trips including possible early bird discounts, contests etc. 1. [WhatsApp Channel](https://go.unt.global/travelgroup) 2. [Telegram Channel](https://t.me/urbanaturetravel)
Walk & Talk: Treptower Park / Plänterwald (8 km, auf Deutsch)
Walk & Talk: Treptower Park / Plänterwald (8 km, auf Deutsch)
**Neue Leute kennenlernen, nette Gespräche & frische Luft. Am Sonntagnachmittag.** . **💶 2 Euro Gebühr (vor Ort, in bar)** . **🛑 Falls Du es nicht schaffst, sag bitte rechtzeitig ab.** 😊 **Zusagen sind bis kurz vor Beginn möglich. Ich freu mich Dich zu sehen.** . 👋🏼 Wir treffen uns an der [S-Bahn Station Treptower Park, am Hinterausgang Richtung Park (Link Google Maps)](https://maps.app.goo.gl/4kVsM838mCSftVPc9). . Wir machen eine kleine Vorstellungsrunde. Danach gehen wir los. . 💐 Wir laufen auf dem großen Uferweg entlang der Spree, vorbei am Vergnügungspark Plänterwald bi szum Ende des Plänterwalds. Dort kehren wir um, gehen zurück durch den Plänterwald um dann wieder das wunderschöne Spree-Ufer entlang zu laufen. 😊 Ich bereite Deep-Talk-Fragen vor, damit Ihr gut uns Gespräch kommt. . **💧 Empfehlungen:** * Bring etwas Wasser mit, falls Du durstig wirst (1 Liter) * Gegen Abend kann es kühler werden: Bring Dir etwas Warmes anzuziehen mit. . **👉 Rechtlicher Hinweis** Auch wenn wir uns als Gruppe treffen und ich einen schönen Weg für uns herausgesucht habe, **bist Du voll verantwortlich für Dich selbst**. . **👱🏼‍♂️ Mehr über Abenteuer Freundschaft** Ich bin Georg Preller. Ich habe Abenteuer Freundschaft gegründet, um Freundschaft zu erforschen. Mein Ziel: Mehr echte Freundschaften auf dieser Welt. . Auf Meetup findest Du zahlreiche Events zum Kennenerlenen oder um über Freundschaft zu lernen. . **👋🏽 Weitere Gruppen & Kontaktmöglichkeiten** . **✈ Telegram-Kanal: [t.me/abenteuer_freundschaft](http://t.me/abenteuer_freundschaft)** für Events, Workshops & Treffpunkte für neue Freundschaften . **✉ Freundschafts-Newsletter:** [https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/newsletter](https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/newsletter) Alle 4 Wochen das Neuste aus der Freundschaftsforschung; oft seltener, denn ich schreibe nur dann, wenn es wirklich etwas zu berichten gibt. . **🔥 6 Zutaten großartiger Freundschaften** Seit 2020 forsche ich, was großartige Freundschaften wirklich ausmacht. Das Ergebnis ist das 30seitige eBook: "Die 6 Zutaten großartiger Freundschaften". Du erhältst das eBook zurzeit kostenlos mit der Anmeldung zum Newsletter: [https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/newsletter](https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/newsletter) **💯 Wie wird man Freunde in Berlin:** * [Freunde finden: Wie wird man Freunde?](https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/freunde-finden) * [Was ist Freundschaft?](https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/freunde-finden) * [Wie schnell wir man Freunde?](https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/wie-schnell-entsteht-freundschaft)

Wilderness Hiking Events Near You

Connect with your local Wilderness Hiking community

Trails & Ales! Blendon Woods Metro Park / Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery
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 park’s famous "Monarch Mansion" also became a prominent fixture, starting a long tradition of raising and releasing thousands of monarch butterflies each September. These initiatives cemented the park’s reputation as a premier destination for birders and nature enthusiasts. In more recent decades, Blendon Woods has continued to modernize while maintaining its wilderness character. The 10-acre Natural Play Area was added in 2017, encouraging kids to explore the ravines and woods off-trail. This was followed by the opening of a $1.5 million inclusive playground in April 2025, designed to accommodate children of all physical abilities. The nature center also underwent major renovations to include immersive, three-dimensional exhibits and a new butterfly house. Today, the park encompasses 653 acres, preserving a unique geologic and biological corridor amidst the bustling Westerville and Northeast Columbus area. **Map of the Park** Here is a map of [Blendon Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/BLN_map_Inclusive-Playground-and-Butterfly-Trail_May-2025_1980px.png). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Lake View, Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook, Brookside, and Sugarbush Trails. This sounds like a lot, but it will really be only a little over five miles. Blendon Woods has a few hills here and there, but it's not one of the more strenuous metro parks. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet just in front of the Nature Center. This is about a mile into the park from the main entrance. You have to go past the Ranger Station and the Shadblow Reservable Area to get to it, so don't stop too early at the Ranger Station and get it confused with the Nature Center. **After the Hike** Afterward, we will head over to [Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/) at Easton for [drinks](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/#dinner-menu) and [food](https://forbiddenroot.com/wp-content/uploads/Cbus-Food.pdf). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks. The brewery's actual address is [4080 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4080+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88388a86d10b6619:0x4d42b470a5cf11d3?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111); however, I recommend pointing your GPS to the [Worth Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Worth+Garage/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388b4df6082825:0x17582f0eccd9dda1!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11rzfvvv8b?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) across the street. Parking in this garage is free as long as you're not on the first floor, and it is literally right next to the brewery.
Hike Char-Mar Ridge Park
Hike Char-Mar Ridge Park
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.
Hike Blendon Woods Metro Park
Hike Blendon Woods Metro Park
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.
Sharon Woods HIKE
Sharon Woods HIKE
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 .
Sharon Woods HIKE
Sharon Woods HIKE
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.
Wild Ohio: The Best of Our Natural Heritage. Jim McCormac
Wild Ohio: The Best of Our Natural Heritage. Jim McCormac
June 17, 2026: Worthington Library. Wild Ohio: The Best of Our Natural Heritage. Jim McCormac. Worthington, Ohio. 7 pm.
Blendonwood Ravine Day Hike, 10:30 am
Blendonwood Ravine Day Hike, 10:30 am