Outdoor Activities Groups and Events

**History** [Slate Run Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/slate-run/), located south of Canal Winchester in Pickaway County, has roots tracing back to the early planning efforts of the Columbus and Franklin County Metropolitan Park District. In 1963, Metro Parks officials identified the land along Slate Run as having strong potential for a large metropolitan park due to its expansive acreage, diverse habitats, and natural features like the stream that gave the area its name. The largest stream in the vicinity, Slate Run, flows south to northwest through a ridge, providing a logical basis for the park's designation. Between 1964 and 1968, Metro Parks acquired approximately 1,662 acres through multiple parcels, including a key 212-acre farmstead that had been continuously operated since 1805. This acquisition phase positioned Slate Run as a future major addition to the system, following the openings of other parks like Sharon Woods in 1968 and Highbanks in 1973. The park officially opened to the public in 1981, marking it as the sixth Metro Park in the district and, at the time, the largest with its substantial land holdings. From the outset, Metro Parks envisioned incorporating a living historical farm to educate visitors about 19th-century Ohio agriculture. The focal 212-acre parcel, purchased from the White family heirs in 1964, included historic structures that made it ideal for this purpose. The park's development preserved natural areas such as grasslands, wetlands, meadows, and forests while integrating interpretive elements. Upon opening, Slate Run quickly became a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Central to the park's identity is the Slate Run Living Historical Farm, which interprets life on a typical Ohio farm in the 1880s. The gothic revival farmhouse on the site was constructed in 1856 by owner Isaac Fridley and later restored by Metro Parks for historical accuracy. Visitors can explore interiors like the living room, parlor, and kitchen, where interpreters demonstrate period activities. The multi-bay barn, built in 1881 by Samuel Oman (the fourth owner), was meticulously restored with help from Amish carpenters. Heirloom animals such as Percheron horses, pigs, geese, and turkeys inhabit the farm, enhancing the immersive experience. The historical farmstead reflects a long lineage of ownership and agricultural use dating back to the early 19th century. Continuous farming on the land since 1805 made the site authentic for recreating late-19th-century practices, including grain harvesting and animal husbandry. Metro Parks focused on authenticity by restoring original buildings and introducing period-appropriate methods, such as horse-powered threshing machines from the late 1880s. The farm operates with volunteers and staff in period attire to portray daily rural life. This educational component has drawn school groups and families for decades. Today, Slate Run Metro Park spans about 1,705 acres and attracts roughly 250,000 visitors annually for its blend of natural preservation and historical interpretation. The park maintains diverse habitats supporting wildlife like nesting sandhill cranes and reintroduced northern bobwhite quail. Trails and open spaces offer opportunities for hiking and observation amid the preserved landscapes. The Living Historical Farm remains a crown jewel, continuing to teach about Ohio's agricultural heritage. Ongoing programs and restorations ensure the site's relevance for future generations. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Slate Run](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/SLR-parkmap@2x.gif). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Five Oaks, Sugar Maple, Covered Bridge, Shagbark, and Lake Trails. This will be around 4.5 to 5 miles. While Slate Run is moderately strenuous in a few places, it's generally a good place to hike and doesn't seem to wear people out. Some spots on the hike are unshaded, though, so be prepared for the possibility of some sun. I find Slate Run to be very underappreciated for the quality of its hiking. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet at the [Shady Grove Picnic Area](https://www.google.com/maps/place/39%C2%B045'30.1%22N+82%C2%B050'13.2%22W/@39.758347,-82.83701,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m4!3m3!8m2!3d39.758347!4d-82.83701?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDIxMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). You can use the map pin I've provided here; it's accurate. There's a latrine at Shady Grove, but there is no running water (no water fountains). We will pass a water fountain when we get to the Buzzard's Roost Picnic Area, although I can't guarantee this fountain won't be off for the winter. I'd recommend bringing some water just in case, at least for after the hike. I'd also recommend [hiking shoes](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D972KN3W) for this park. **After the Hike** Once we're finished at Slate Run, we'll head over to [Loose Rail Brewing](https://looserailbrewing.com/) for [drinks](https://looserailbrewing.com/canal-winchester-canal-winchester-loose-rail-brewing-drink-menu) and [food](https://looserailbrewing.com/canal-winchester-canal-winchester-loose-rail-brewing-food-menu). The brewery's actual address is [37 W Waterloo St, Canal Winchester, OH 43110](https://www.google.com/maps/place/37+W+Waterloo+St,+Canal+Winchester,+OH+43110/@39.8432511,-82.8071032,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88387be3ac496d83:0x23e8ee9d9391dd6b!8m2!3d39.8432511!4d-82.8071032!16s%2Fg%2F11cp8n8x1j?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDIxMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), and it's about 10-12 minutes from Slate Run. We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.

**Summary** Celebrate America's 250th year and the [Columbus Clippers'](https://www.milb.com/columbus) 50th season by watching [Franklin County's](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Columbus_Clippers) best team play the [best game in the world](https://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/babe_ruth_140116) at [one of the ten best](https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/minors/2025/03/26/huntington-park-voted-top-10-minor-league-ballparks-usa-today-10best-awards/82656048007/) baseball stadiums in the United States in their 2026 home Saturday opener! The first pitch is scheduled for 4:05 p.m. The gates always open an hour before the scheduled first pitch. I'm usually at the ballpark a half an hour before the scheduled first pitch. Clippers' games usually last around two and a half hours. Being a few minutes early will help us secure good seats. **Parking** I personally always like to park in the [McConnell Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/McConnell+Garage/@39.9685114,-83.0103938,17z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388f24145462d1:0x6238c0f0c851ab70!8m2!3d39.9692957!4d-83.0081175!16s%2Fg%2F1jkw6y27y?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExNi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). If nothing else is going on in the area, this should be $7. However, I've also seen it be as high as $22. I can't say for certain what it will be for this game, but once I know, I will post in the comments. Alternately, there are other lots in the area you can try which will probably be a few dollars cheaper. [Here is a map](https://img.mlbstatic.com/milb-images/image/upload/q_auto/milb/ernng44ya2xkr4wbheql) of all the garages and lots surrounding the stadium. Keep in mind that many of these are outdoor lots and your car will be out in the elements. If you decide to look for a different lot, I would mildly recommend either the Buggyworks Lot or the Broadbelt Lot, but I have never parked in either of these myself. Although it won't apply for this game, keep in mind that street parking is also free citywide in Columbus on [Sundays and holidays](https://www.columbus.gov/files/sharedassets/city/v/1/public-service/right-of-way-permit/on-street-parking-out-of-service-policy-and-procedure-final-8.15.2022-signed.pdf). **Where We'll Be** Here is a [map of the ballpark](https://img.mlbstatic.com/milb-images/image/upload/milb/qkqohbqjgtx5uwo6zkgn.pdf). We'll be sitting on Level 3 of the [Left Field Building](https://www.milb.com/columbus/ballpark/huntington-park) (aka the "AEP Power Pavilion"), which features a 110 foot bar with six open patios overlooking the field. This area is covered and will be out of any sun or rain that may transpire. If you enter the park through the Center Field Entrance (which is at the intersection of Nationwide Blvd. and Neil Ave.), there will be a door to your immediate right after you enter that leads to a staircase up into the Tower. This door is not well-marked, and if you've never been to Huntington Park before, you may wonder if you're actually allowed to go in and up the stairs. Yes, you are. We'll be on the Tower's "Level 3". I have uploaded to the Photos section of this event page, below, a picture of the sign you want look for after you ascend the stairs, so you'll know you're on the correct floor. **Tickets** Do not buy your tickets ahead of time. They will literally be twice as expensive if you buy them on Ticketmaster. Instead, go to the ticket window near the Center Field Entrance. Buy a *Standing Room Only* ticket (don't worry, you won't be standing), which will cost you a flat $8 with no other taxes or fees. These tickets never sell out, and this is the cheapest way to get into the park. **Carry-Ins** Per the team's [website](https://www.milb.com/columbus/ballpark/a-z-guide): "Soft-sided coolers are permitted in the general seating area [which is where we'll be], but not hard-sided coolers; also no alcohol, glass bottles, or cans will be permitted. SMALL bags or backpacks of food items and beverages in plastic bottles are ok. Reusable water bottles are permitted, but must be empty upon arrival. Diaper bags are allowed." I always bring a disposable plastic bottle of water and refill it as I need at the park. Bottled water at the game is something like 4 or 5 dollars. So if you want a bottle of water, I recommend bringing your own bottle instead of buying it at the park. **Food & Drink** The area we'll be in has burgers, hot dogs, salads, soft pretzels, ice cream, and other sorts of things you would expect at a baseball game. I've posted pics of the menu in the Photos section, below. The burger and fries are $14 plus tax, and they're not bad. (This is what I usually get.) The beer is *really* overpriced. It's like $9, or $20 for a pitcher. If there's some people to help me drink it, though, I'll buy a pitcher of Michelob Ultra. While we'll be on the penultimate floor of the Tower, the top floor (which has a great view, but is fully exposed to the elements) has a [Dirty Frank's](https://dirtyfranks.com/) hot dog stand. I've never gotten anything from there, though I've been told it's good. The Donatos pizza stand is also a very short walk away from where we'll be. I love Donatos, but the pizza is so expensive at the ballpark. It's like $9 for a personal-sized pepperoni. It is good, though. **Peroration** Let's (watch them) play ball!

Hosted by Wild Ones Columbus How to Install a Bog Garden, with David Marsolo Saturday, March 14th, 2026 10:00 am to 12:00 pm (Eastern Time) Innis House (Inniswoods Metro Park) , 940 S. Hempstead Road, Westerville, OH Public Welcome Free Event Program/Speaker Presentation Wheelchair Accessible Public Restroom Free Public Parking A bog can serve the same functions as a traditional rain garden but has the advantages of being low maintenance, climate resilient and attractive for a much longer part of the year. David Marsolo is a long time Wild Ones member. He has been maintaining artificial bogs at his suburban Westerville home for about 20 years. He will describe how to install a bog and fill it with many interesting native plants including pollinator and host plants https://columbus.wildones.org/calendar-of-events-and-programs/?wo_event_id=11160

Coffee and conversation at [Stauf's Coffee Roasters](https://www.staufs.com/) in German Village. Street parking is free on Sundays.

We'll play board games at the [Land-Grant Brewing Company](https://landgrantbrewing.com/). The brewery has multiple [food trucks](https://landgrantbrewing.com/food/) on Sundays, including [Ray Ray's Hog Pit](https://rayrayshogpit.com/franklinton), [Buck City Sammies](https://www.buckcitysammies.com/menu), and [Hai Poké](https://www.haipokefoodtruck.com/). The brewery also has (passable) drip coffee, free water, and Jeni's ice cream. You can also walk over to the [Land Grant Extension](https://callinyourbluffcoffee.com/) for "real" coffee. (You may have to stand in line, though. The Extension is popular.) You can come late or leave early. Please just sign up so I know to expect you. **Notes on Parking** * You'll (probably) have to park on the street, but street parking is free on Sundays. * There are [parking garages](https://landgrantbrewing.com/parking/) a little farther away if you want. These are obviously not free, though. * There is a [lot next door](https://www.google.com/maps/place/39%C2%B057'26.0%22N+83%C2%B000'40.9%22W/@39.957211,-83.0119921,19z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m12!1m7!3m6!1s0x88388f3efd89238b:0xc139207386232411!2sLand-Grant+Brewing+Company!8m2!3d39.9577613!4d-83.011426!16s%2Fg%2F1pzt7t9df!3m3!8m2!3d39.957211!4d-83.011347?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDEyMS4wIKXMDSoKLDEwMDc5MjA3MUgBUAM%3D) to the brewery that you're allowed to park in, but it is not free. I've never parked there, so I don't know anything about rates. (I'm told though that if you eat at Milo's Deli next door to this lot that Milo's will stamp your parking so it's free.) * You're going to see odd signs on [Lucas St](https://www.google.com/maps/place/39%C2%B057'26.1%22N+83%C2%B000'40.3%22W/@39.957256,-83.0124134,19z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m10!1m5!3m4!2zMznCsDU3JzI4LjgiTiA4M8KwMDAnNDEuNSJX!8m2!3d39.957993!4d-83.011536!3m3!8m2!3d39.957256!4d-83.011197?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDEyMS4wIKXMDSoKLDEwMDc5MjA3MUgBUAM%3D) (saying it's a "private street") that will lead you to believe you're not allowed to park there, but you actually are. * Columbus parking cops literally do not work on Sundays. This means that, even if you're driving a non-EV, you can park in the EV spots near the brewery. **Games** I do bring many games, but please bring some of your own as well.

The Spring Gardening Summit hosted by Audrey's Little Farm is returning Feb 23-26! *Register Today with this link* click RSVP for link This is a FREE online event featuring 20+ incredible gardening experts coming together to share practical, real-life strategies for: planning and setting up a successful spring garden growing more food, even in small spaces improving soil health naturally managing pests and weeds without chemicals using and preserving what you grow and so much more The event is completely online, so you can watch from anywhere and learn at your own pace during the event. There’s also an optional upgrade available during the event for those who want ongoing access to the sessions, bonus resources, and an upgraded experience, but the summit itself is absolutely free to join. Some of the presentations we're most excited about include: Planning and Planting Your Home Orchard From Scratch w/ Josh Gardens Fearless Fermenting w/ Carolyn Thomas Best Tips for Creating Healthy Soil w/ Robert Pavlis Weed Less, Harvest More w/ Laurie Neverman How to Grow and Use 5 Great Herbs w/ Bevin Cohen

**This is a free Zoom presentation presented by Kula Cloth.** Register Here: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/spoken-wild-farther-with-heather-anderson-tickets-1980212492872](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/spoken-wild-farther-with-heather-anderson-tickets-1980212492872) ### **Spoken Wild: Farther – An Evening with Heather Anderson** Join us for an inspiring evening with Heather Anderson, the first woman to complete America’s Triple Crown of long-distance hiking in a single calendar year! Whether you’re a day hiker, a seasoned thru-hiker, or someone who simply loves stories of grit and adventure, Heather’s journey will captivate and motivate you. During this 60-minute presentation, Heather will share her incredible journey hiking nearly 8,000 miles across the Appalachian, Pacific Crest, and Continental Divide Trails in a single year—an endeavor that tested her strength, resilience, and determination. Drawing from her time on the trail and her upcoming book, *[Farther](https://checkout.square.site/merchant/TYP82AGKW6HE7/checkout/QY6FLWEWFLTWQZBTFLGKGVPZ "https://checkout.square.site/merchant/TYP82AGKW6HE7/checkout/QY6FLWEWFLTWQZBTFLGKGVPZ")*, she’ll explore the challenges and triumphs of life on the trail, the mental and emotional lessons learned, and the joy of discovering your limits and pushing past them. **What to Expect:** * An inside look at Heather’s record-breaking Triple Crown journey and the highs, lows, and lessons from nearly 8,000 miles on the trail. * Inspiring stories of grit, resilience, and perseverance * A live Q&A where you can ask Heather your questions about thru-hiking, trail life, and the mindset it takes to tackle ambitious goals. **About Our Speaker: Heather Anderson** is a National Geographic Adventurer of the Year, award-winning thru-hiker, mountaineer, and professional speaker. She has set multiple Fastest Known Times and is a passionate advocate for women in the outdoors. Follow her adventures [wordsfromthewild.net](http://wordsfromthewild.net/ "http://wordsfromthewild.net/") and on instagram @wordsfromthewild and on [Youtube](https://www.youtube.com/@WordsFromTheWild/videos "https://www.youtube.com/@WordsFromTheWild/videos"). ### **About Heather's Latest Book:** **[Farther - Eight Months on America's Triple Crown Trails](https://checkout.square.site/merchant/TYP82AGKW6HE7/checkout/QY6FLWEWFLTWQZBTFLGKGVPZ "https://www.mountaineers.org/books/books/farther-eight-months-on-america2019s-triple-crown-trails")** *Farther* covers Anderson’s gritty and challenging effort across nearly 8,000 miles of backcountry, navigating physical hardship and mental resilience. Juggling logistics and weather, as well as emotional upheaval in her personal relationships, Anderson examines themes of grief, identity, and perseverance with clarity and vulnerability. As months of feral solitude and struggle unfold, Anderson seeks meaning through motion--how walking forward can help us find our way back to ourselves. Register Here: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/spoken-wild-farther-with-heather-anderson-tickets-1980212492872](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/spoken-wild-farther-with-heather-anderson-tickets-1980212492872)

Do you love the outdoors as well as a challenge? Ohio’s outdoors are calling to you —vast forests, the Great Lakes, and wild spaces that inspire awe and action. And on the doorstep of so much more – from the gorges of Kentucky to the mountains of North Carolina to the snowy forests of Michigan. Whether it’s a walk in an urban park or a backpacking adventure in the Smokies, we are committed to helping others “enjoy, explore and protect” what we all love. Sierra Club needs bold, community-driven leaders who aren’t afraid of a challenge —leaders who see the outdoors not just as a place to explore, but as a space for connection, rejuvenation, and advocacy. As a Sierra Club Outings Leader, you’ll do more than guide hikes—you’ll inspire a new generation of environmental changemakers, build inclusive outdoor experiences and teach others to enjoy the outdoors safely and responsibly. If you believe nature should be for everyone and want to create real impact where adventure meets activism, this is your call to lead. Want to learn more? Register for our virtual Outings Leader Open House [here](https://act.sierraclub.org/events/details?formcampaignid=701Po00001TTGzbIAH&mapLinkHref=)!

You must sign up here: [https://couple.com/speed-dating-events/?r=meetupohio](https://couple.com/speed-dating-events/?r=meetupohio) Dive into Ohio’s ultimate singles bash Thursday at 7:30pm, on Couple.com! **What to Expect:** * **Join Safely 🖥️ –** On your computer or phone. * **Fun Interactions ❤️ –** Speed dating, mingling, and games. * **Smart Matches 🤖 –** AI Matchmaker learns your preferences as you date. * **Big Prizes 🎁 –** Dozens of giveaways, including Amazon gift cards! Watch to learn more: [https://youtu.be/Bf7q_2EKXMo](https://youtu.be/Bf7q_2EKXMo) **✨ AI Matchmaker ✨** Meet singles across the region and speed date those closest to you. As you date, AI Matchmaker learns your romantic traits and preferences. Once unlocked, it finds you the most compatible local matches from the zillions already on Couple. Sign up here: [https://couple.com/speed-dating-events/?r=meetupohio](https://couple.com/speed-dating-events/?r=meetupohio)

Join us the 1st Monday of every month as we meet up to chat about relationships. Hope to see you there!

**You must sign up here:** [https://couple.com/speed-dating-events/?r=meetupohio](https://couple.com/speed-dating-events/?r=meetupohio) 20 speed-dating rounds - Fun interactive games - $3,000 in Amazon Gift Cards! **Why You Can’t Miss This:** **🎉 More singles, better matches –** Double the dates, double the fun! **💰 Win big –** Spin-the-Wheel, Quick Draw & surprise giveaways. **🤖 AI Matchmaker Boost –** Smarter matches with every convo. **✨ AI Matchmaker ✨** Meet singles across the region and speed date those closest to you. As you date, AI Matchmaker learns your romantic traits and preferences. Once unlocked, it finds you the most compatible local matches from the zillions already on Couple. **Limited spots available.** **Sign up here:** [https://couple.com/speed-dating-events/?r=meetupohio](https://couple.com/speed-dating-events/?r=meetupohio)

We hope everyone has enjoyed all of the crazy SaSS events this past year. It’s been a lot of fun seeing good friends and meeting new ones every week. 2025 was a great year for SaSS with so many events including: volleyball, zombie tag, polar plunge, live music events, flashlight tag, glow-in-the-dark art, Monopoly Madness Pub Crawl, and so many more. Unfortunately, the Meetup service is not free. Our yearly Meetup bill has come due, and it’s time to pay the piper. We ask that Sass members pay $5 for the year. This covers your membership with SaSS for all of 2026. Any money collected beyond our Meetup dues will go towards helping pay for extra costs associated with hosting these events (zombie blood isn’t free). Let’s keep this party going! Venmo your $5 yearly membership to: @John-Brokamp Last 4 digits of my phone #: 0948 Thank you! Hope to see you at our next event.

You must sign up here: [https://couple.com/speed-dating-events/?r=meetupohio](https://couple.com/speed-dating-events/?r=meetupohio) Dive into Ohio’s ultimate singles bash Thursday at 7:30pm, on Couple.com! **What to Expect:** * **Join Safely 🖥️ –** On your computer or phone. * **Fun Interactions ❤️ –** Speed dating, mingling, and games. * **Smart Matches 🤖 –** AI Matchmaker learns your preferences as you date. * **Big Prizes 🎁 –** Dozens of giveaways, including Amazon gift cards! Watch to learn more: [https://youtu.be/Bf7q_2EKXMo](https://youtu.be/Bf7q_2EKXMo) **✨ AI Matchmaker ✨** Meet singles across the region and speed date those closest to you. As you date, AI Matchmaker learns your romantic traits and preferences. Once unlocked, it finds you the most compatible local matches from the zillions already on Couple. Sign up here: [https://couple.com/speed-dating-events/?r=meetupohio](https://couple.com/speed-dating-events/?r=meetupohio)