Mid-Atlantic Hiking Group

Holiday Hike! Join Us For a Mod 4 Mile Hike in Turkey Run Park

February 18 · 10:00 AM
This location is shown only to members

Join Us For a Moderate 4 Mile Hike in Turkey Run Park with an Optional Post Hike Meal!

Turkey Run park has a number of wooded and riverside trails. Turkey Run Park preserves a vertical slice of the Potomac Gorge ecosystem. A unique combination of flora and fauna makes a home in the park's riverbanks, flood terraces, upland forest, streams, and underground seeps. There are also a variety of fauna that live along and in the river. You may see beaver, cormorants, and a variety of water birds. Trails in Turkey Run Park cross through several of the distinct habitats that make up the Potomac Gorge ecosystem. The Potomac Heritage Trail also runs through the park.

Wildlife sightings change with the seasons. Wildflowers bloom and warblers migrate through the park each spring and you can expect to see many showy and rare flowers such as Bloodroot, trout Lily, Dutchman's Breaches, and Virginia Bluebells (lots of Virginia Bluebells in season). Woodpeckers call loudly all summer from a thick, leafy canopy. Fall colors paint the park's hardwood trees red and yellow. Occasional snowfalls in winter reveal the comings and goings of many small mammals

Trail Information

Nearby City: McLean
Length: 4 total miles
Trail surface: Rocks and Tree Roots. Muddy if it has rained
Gain: 400 ft
Trail Type: Loop
Skill Level: Moderate
Exposure: Mostly shady; less so in winter
Season: Year-round

Our RSVP Policies and Group Etiquette

Click here to review our policies

Weather Information
We hike rain or shine!
Click here for up to the minute weather information the area where we will be hiking.

Gear Information
Click Here for suggestions for what to wear and what not to wear for our hikes.

Carpool Information

Baltimore Area Carpool
To carpool or caravan, people can arrange to meet at Savage Station. You should post that on the Comments section . Click here for directions to Savage Station.

If you can drive or want to carpool from a different location, please post that location in the comment section below. For those who need a ride, reach out to the drivers. Make friends, and support the environment - by just offering a ride!

Directions to the Trailhead

Click Here for Directions to Where We Meet for This Hike.

Hike Meetup Time is at 10:00 a.m.

Carpool Meetup Time is 9:00 a.m.

Optional Post Hike Lunch Information and Menu

We will have an optional hike lunch at Uncle Julio's. Click hereto see their menu so you can check it out in advance. I will ask for a show of hands of who wants to join us there for a bite mid-way through the hike and contact them with how many will be attending the lunch so they have a heads up. Here is the address for the restaurant for your GPS or mapping software. We will caravan from the hike to the restaurant for those who do not have maps or GPS's.

Uncle Julio’s Rio Grande Café
4870 Bethesda Ave
Bethesda, MD 20814

Please remember we are a social hiking group that values fellowship and camaraderie and practice good hike etiquette. We take breaks as necessary and have at least one guide in the front in addition to a "sweeper" in the back which means that no hiker is left behind. If you get upset because someone has to rest at the top of a hill etc. then please find another group! We are very supportive, encouraging, and focus on safety while getting or staying fit on the trail and practicing leaving no trace

Fido is Welcome on this Hike but Not in the Restaurant!

Please take the hike leaders number with you and enjoy the hike!

Ted: [masked]

Mike: [masked]

Join or login to comment.

Chantal

It was my first hike with this group and I enjoyed the group and the hike very much. Thank you to the leaders.

1 · February 19
Karin

Best Hike ever...loved crossing the water and climbing over the rocks. Both Ted and Mike first rate leaders in every way. Again, MAHG Rocks!

2 · February 19
Christine Zapp

It was great, better than great!!

1 · February 18
- Susan Onuoha
  
  Great meeting you Christine and great photos!!
  
  1 · February 18
- Christine Zapp
  
  Was a pleasure to meet u too. Hope to hike with u again soon.
  
  2 · February 18
Dell

I had a great time. Thanks so much.

1 · February 18
Wayne Martin

It was a very nice hike with a wonderful group of people. What a great way to start the day.

2 · February 18
Edward Schaefer

The Turkey Run loop is a wonderful hike that I highly recommend.

1 · February 18
Collin

This is my first time going to an event. If I am on the wait list does that mean I can't come?

0 · February 18
- Kellie Carlisle
  
  Collin, I just saw this:( Sorry, but this came only a couple of hours before the hike and was getting ready to lead my hike. Here is the info you are looking for and hope to see you next time. "How to Move from the Wait list to a “Yes” - If you are on the wait list, you will get an e-mail as slots become available. It is a “first come first serve” system for available slots. Slots are open to everyone, whether on the wait list or not. However, being on the wait list will make certain that you are notified when open slots become available as well as letting me know to look for another leader if the trails (and parking) can accommodate it and still comply with our Leave No Trace pledge. Click the following link for how to get off the wait list and RSVP “yes”, http://www.midatlanti... Please don't hesitate to contact me if you need further assistance as that is what I am here for."
  
  0 · February 18
Kellie Carlisle

Thanks so much to Ted and Mike for leading another fantastic hike!

1 · February 18
Kathy M

This was my first hike with the group (can't really count the Christmas Lights in Maryland since we never met up with the group due to traffic). It was a gorgeous day ... the company was great ... and it was fun discovering a park whose exit I have passed more times than I care to count. I look forward to joining MAHG on many future hikes.

2 · February 18
Crystal

Sorry for the late cancellation.

0 · February 18
Christine Zapp

Liz, would meeting at a metro work?No idea where Mt. Pleasant is but if you tell me where a metro is , l can pick you up. I am close to DunLorring, Vienna and l think the Falls Church ones are nearby too. Let me know and l would be happy.

0 · February 13
- View all 11 replies
- liz
  
  hi, thanks for the offer but i'm planning to bring my pup, and i'm in DC so probably should find someone closer to DC.
  
  0 · February 13
- liz
  
  Christine - how about Foggy Bottom?
  
  0 · February 14
- Christine Zapp
  
  oops l think l responded wrong place, is that anywhere near Tysons or the ones l mentioned? Dont know where that is but am sure l can find it on google or GPS.
  
  0 · February 14
- Edward Schaefer
  
  @Christine - Liz lives in DC and is looking for a ride from there.
  
  0 · February 14
- Edward Schaefer
  
  @Liz - For both Christine and I, the idea is that you use the Metro to come out to us. The Orange Line will take you from Foggy Bottom out to East Falls Church or Dunn Loring.
  
  0 · February 14
- Akiko
  
  Hello Christine and Liz, I wonder if there is a space for one person in your shared ride.. Already full...? Thanks!
  
  1 · February 16
- Christine Zapp
  
  Hello Alicia, l have not heard back from Liz just yet and yes there is still room for you!
  
  0 · February 16
- liz
  
  Sorry, I don't know if there's room in the car in which i'm getting a ride....
  
  0 · February 17
- Christine Zapp
  
  I am assuming since you have not followed up with me to confirm any plans of picking you up, that you have made alternative plans?? Hope to see u there.
  
  1 · February 17
- liz
  
  Christine, yep, got a ride....couldn't take metro b/c i have my dog with me.
  
  0 · February 18
- liz
  
  Getting a ride w/Wayne Martin.
  
  0 · February 18
Edward Schaefer

@Liz - Would meeting at a metro stop work? I could meet you at East Falls Church no later than 9:30 in the Kiss-and-Ride area.
@Karin - I have been there many times before. Lot C1 is small enough that you will have no trouble finding the group.

0 · February 13
- View all 6 replies
- liz
  
  Thanks, Edward, I'm in DC so would need to find someone who could meet me between Adams Morgan and Georgetown. I'll update my request....
  
  0 · February 13
- Ashley
  
  Hi Edward, are you planning on going to Uncle Julio's? I would like to carpool, and I could meet you at East Falls Church, but I will be unable to stay for the post-hike lunch.
  
  0 · February 14
- Ashley
  
  Thanks. :)
  
  0 · February 14
- Edward Schaefer
  
  I was planning on doing the lunch, but the "out" for that is to take you to the Bethesda Metro afterwards. Does that work for you?
  
  0 · February 14
- liz
  
  Hi Edward, i'm covered, thanks. I'll have my pup w/me so traveling on metro won't work this time : )
  
  0 · February 18
- liz
  
  getting a ride w/Wayne Martin, thanks!
  
  0 · February 18
Christine Zapp

Not sure where that is Liz? Anywhere near me, Tysons Mall, surely dont mind, just have to google it and find it, smiles

0 · February 14
Christine Zapp

Is there a contact number to reach in case cant find the place. I have visited Turkey Run Parkbefore but found l could not get in cause gate was down, forcing me to continue down the one way road. I truly want to make this hike and dont want to be lost or forced to walk another hike elsewhere nearby alone.

0 · February 13
- Wayne Martin
  
  Hey Christine, both hike leaders, Ted and Mike H., have their phone numbers listed at the bottom of the WEB page describing the hike.
  
  1 · February 14
- Christine Zapp
  
  Dahhh, lol, missed those big numbers! Thanks Wayne!
  
  0 · February 14
Karin

Kellie/Mike, Is there a specific spot to wait (Trail's head) for this hike. I have GPS (ed) the directions but the ending spot is still kind of general. Are we to meet at a parking lot/welcome center/ ranger hut...I have your cell numbers and can call as I get closer but, if I know ahead of time then less likely to bother you. thanks

0 · February 13
- Kellie Carlisle
  
  Karin, thanks for the heads up. I added details and hope it is now very clear.
  
  0 · February 13
Christine Zapp

Cheryl, l am apparently only about two miles from Turkey Run in McLean. I live 5 mins from the Tysons Mall. If you want to meet me near the mall, you can ride with me, if that works for you?

0 · February 13
Cheryl

Is anyone coming from Alexandria? Would like to carpool.

0 · February 13
Kellie Carlisle

How to Move from the Wait list to a “Yes” - If you are on the wait list, you will get an e-mail as slots become available. It is a “first come first serve” system for available slots. Slots are open to everyone, whether on the wait list or not. However, being on the wait list will make certain that you are notified when open slots become available as well as letting me know to look for another leader if the trails (and parking) can accommodate it and still comply with our Leave No Trace pledge. Click the following link for how to get off the wait list and RSVP “yes”, http://www.midatlantichiking.co... Please don't hesitate to contact me if you need further assistance as that is what I am here for.

0 · February 12
liz

If Greta and I can catch a ride w/someone headed down 16th street we'd appreciate it. Thanks!

0 · February 11
liz

just Greta and me

0 · February 10
Christine Zapp

I was hoping to take along my adult daughter with me that morning but dont see where l can add a guest on.

0 · February 10
Karin

this time I am remembering to add pace option: slow or moderate is just fine by me.

0 · February 10

23 attended

Mike H.

Certified Hike Leader and Wilderness Medical First Responder, Co-Organizer

Event Host
Ted Willard

Certified Hike Leader and Wilderness Medical First Responder

Event Host
Diep Trinh
John D
Ed
Nicole
Joyce
Samia Fam +1
Karla +1
Annette +1
Dell
Checked-in
Cheryl
Chantal
liz
Susan Onuoha
Checked-in
Karin
Wayne Martin
Edward Schaefer

Preapproved for Very Strenuous Hikes!
Christine Zapp
Kathy M

Your organizer's refund policy for Holiday Hike! Join Us For a Mod 4 Mile Hike in Turkey Run Park

Refunds are not offered for this Meetup.

Close this

Washington, DC

Founded Jul 21, 2007

About us…

We're about:

· · · · · · · · · · · · · ·

Organizers:

, , , and 29 more…

Contact

We are a laid back group of diverse people who enjoy hiking with others while exploring trails in Maryland, DC, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. A sense of humor is a must and we are very much a social hiking group. Our group focuses on camaraderie, safety while having good times out on the trail, and leading an active lifestyle. We enjoy Mother Nature's diversity as well as our own, so get your rear in gear and come on out and join us for a hike!

Why We Hike - To have good times, make friends, and maybe even meet that special someone along the trail while enjoying the benefits of the great outdoors. Whether you want to lose weight, have never hiked a mile in your life, or have a goal to rise up to the challenge of ultra hiking 30 miles in one day, we have a hike for you. Remember, we were all newbies once and we enjoy introducing others to hiking. It is a great way to relieve stress while getting great exercise and enjoying the variety of what Mother Nature has to offer.

When We Hike - In the mornings, afternoons, evenings, darkest of nights, every weekend, all year round. We average 10 hikes a week. Seasonal, after work hikes are offered in many areas throughout our region as well.

Where We Hike - Anywhere within the Mid-Atlantic region. We also have special trips to places farther away. Hikes range from very easy sneaker hikes on paved paths along gentle streams and clear lakes, to very strenuous, steep climbs and rock scrambles to mountain summits. We visit Shenandoah National Park, George Washington National Forest, and the Appalachian Trail almost every weekend. We strive to offer at least one easy, moderate, and strenuous hike within 60 miles of Baltimore, DC, and Northern Virginia each weekend. Additionally, we have cookouts, white water floats, hike out/paddle backs, cave trips, natural water slides hikes, Appalachian Trail section hikes, camping trips, volunteer offerings, and last but certainly not least, our very popular Monuments in the Moonlight hikes that have been featured in the Washington Post.

How We Hike - With safety and camaraderie! We will NOT leave anyone behind and we strive for a 1:15 volunteer hike leader to member ratio. Hiking in large groups is not fun for you or anyone else on the trail, including our own volunteer leadership team. Hikes with a large number of people signed up typically have more than one leader to maintain our goal ratio. This also allows us to offer various pace options so you can hike at the right pace for you. We have pledged to practice Leave No Trace outdoor ethics and we do. We also offer many volunteer and trail maintenance opportunities in addition to community building events, so come on out and make a difference in our parks!

Who Should Join - Simply put, you! Whether you are young, old, working, retired, laid off, shy, talkative, energetic, geeky, lazy (but hopefully you don't want to be or we just might have a problem with this one-grin), recovering from an injury, social, or a competitive speed hiker, this is a group for you. We love our diversity and thrive on it!

WARNING - Our calendar is very active ALL FOUR SEASONS and may become addictive and beneficial to your health!

To keep up with our very active schedule, you can follow our activities via Twitter and socialize with your fellow hikers on Facebook.

I hope to see you on the trail soon and let's have good times!

Kellie and the Entire Mid-Atlantic Hiking Group Volunteer Leadership Team

10% off Any Vacation Package to South America

from Viventura South America Tours
10% off Terrapin Challenge

from Terrapin Adventures
$10 off $10 off of $100

from Barkingstud.com

See all 6 perks Offer a perk →

People in this
Meetup are also in:

30s & 40s Going Out Group

7,195 Going Out Allstars!

Next Meetup:
Saturday, May 25
Northern Virginia Hiking Club (NVHC)

1,220 Hikers

Next Meetup:
Saturday, May 25
Chesapeake Kayak Adventures

883 Chesapeake Paddlers

Next Meetup:
Friday, May 24
VeloDCity: a Washington Area Bicycling Group

1,564 Cyclists

Next Meetup:
Saturday, May 25
Bike & Brunch

605 Members

Next Meetup:
Sunday, May 26
Reston Social Scene

2,337 Socialites

Next Meetup:
Friday, May 24

Holiday Hike! Join Us For a Mod 4 Mile Hike in Turkey Run Park

23 attended

Certified Hike Leader and Wilderness Medical First Responder, Co-Organizer

Event Host

Certified Hike Leader and Wilderness Medical First Responder

Event Host

Samia Fam +1

Karla +1

Annette +1

Preapproved for Very Strenuous Hikes!

Your organizer's refund policy for Holiday Hike! Join Us For a Mod 4 Mile Hike in Turkey Run Park

People in this Meetup are also in:

Log in

Sign up

People in this
Meetup are also in: