Making Friends Locally?

This is very much out of my comfort zone to make this kind of post on such a public platform, but does anybody have any tips on how and where to meet people who are also looking to make friends locally? I’m sure there’s some user error in why I may be finding making friends difficult. I’ve tried bars with no luck. I’ve heard folks suggest hiking groups, but where and how would I join one? How have you guys made new friends? If you’re also looking for friends, please by all means send me a message!