Camping at Ricketts Glen State Park! 22 Falls in 7 Miles! Need We Say More?
- May 4 · 3:00 PM
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Waterfall Wonderland! Car Camping Trip: 2 Days and 1 Night At Ricketts Glen State Park!
Here’s the bottom line: Ricketts Glen is the best hike in Pennsylvania according to BackPacker magazine. It may also be one of the top hikes in the East. There are 22 named waterfalls, and the tallest, Ganoga Falls, is 94 feet. The other 21 falls range from 15 to 49 feet, plus, there are a dozen or more waterfalls that are unnamed.
At the center of the hike is Kitchen Creek, a torrential mountain stream that drops 1,000 feet down the face of the Allegheny Front. Starting at the bottom of the ravine, the trail runs a short ways then it’s up one branch of Kitchen Creek, a mile across the top, then down the other. The man-made pathway is stone steps, ledges, and wooden bridges, made of timbers the size of telephone poles. On your way through the bottom of the ravine, you pass through Glens Natural Area, where there is exotic flora growing beneath 500-year-old hemlocks, pines, and oaks. We will enjoy a well-worn forest path, shale walkways, and dirt roads through a natural area of 500-year-old trees; walk alongside a raging mountain stream past 22 naked waterfalls.
Photos courtesy of fellow group member and professional photographer,Tom C, owner of TCproimages. He took the pics on this page from the last time we were there with our group. As you can see, this area is truly spectacular!
Click Here to enjoy pictures from a past camping trip to Ricketts Glen!
What is Car Camping?
Several people have been asking about car camping. I will give you a hint...it does NOT involve sleeping in your car (unless that is what you prefer). Click here to find out what car camping is all about!
The Plan and The Hike
Saturday is for enjoying the lake or just exploring the area. The hike will be Sunday morning at 9:00 a.m. at staggered times based on pace. Please remember that we do not hike in large groups because it is not as much fun for us, you, our leaders, or others enjoying the trail that day. Last but not least, it is not healthy for the trails and against our Leave No Trace pledge to hike in a big group. We have SEVERAL leaders for this trip. There are a lot of activities and adventures are limitless. Worlds End park is just up the road a piece and several members have enjoyed exploring that area and said it is very nice and most certainly with checking out. But, the main event will be the waterfall hike on Sunday and of course, roaring campfires and socializing Saturday evening, yay! We have found a near perfect balance (always room for improvement as nothing is perfect, especially when Mother Nature is involved) of being able to have a large, fun social the night before the hike where we can meet newer members and catch up with the ones we might already know and enjoy gathering around bonfires. But come morning, we breakdown into our smaller, more intimate groups to explore and hike the falls based on your pace and preferred hike time. We will NOT hike in large groups as we want this to be a stress free and relaxing experience for everyone.
Paddle and Fishing Opportunities Abound!
If you would like to paddle on Saturday I have heard a few people say they are bringing their kayaks/canoes along to enjoy the lake the day we arrive. We will be brining all 4 of our SOT kayaks with paddles, PFD's, and large dry bags. One of our kayaks is a fishing kayak with a fish finder, fish well, and plenty of rod holders. The other three are recreational kayaks. All are for anyone who is interested to use on a first come first serve basis. All paddling will be on the beautiful crystal clear lake so it is peaceful flat water paddling or kayak fishing. Also, you will have time to paddle and explore after the hike too, even in nearby Worlds End Park which is down the road a piece. Please let me know if I can be of any assistance as that is what I am here for. The fishing is supposed to be superb in this area too!
Note Regarding Cell Reception at the Campground:
The park has limited cell phone coverage.
Pace Options
We break down into groups no larger than 15 hikers per leader/sweep team for a more enjoyable experience for all of us and is better for the environment. Large groups really take away from the hiking experience. This also allows us to offer a variety of hike paces and for this particular hike you have 4 to choose from, which allows us to be put together with those of a similar pace. Paces should be not only based on your preference but also ability needs to be taken into consideration. This will not be a crowded hike.
Pace Option 1: Take a Ton of Pics Pace! If you choose this pace, please note the hike will take much longer and I cannot tell you much longer because we won't know until we are out there. If you are looking for a walk in the woods pace to enjoy nature but without as many stops for pictures with time to setup tripods and adjust lenses, then please choose pace 2. If you choose this pace (Option 1), please... no complaints or comments about how long the hike takes because you are going into this well informed-grin
Pace Option 2: A "walk in the woods" or "social" pace which is great for those who want to soak up the nature at a little slower pace than the average hiker. This is also the pace for those new to hiking who might need some rest stops. But, it is not a stroll and we will keep a minimum pace of 2.0. Please join pace option 1, if you cannot keep a 2.0 pace.
Pace Option 3: A moderate pace of about 2.5-3.0mph (we will have multiple groups at this pace since it is the most requested pace). The pace of an average hiker and the focus is on keeping it moving but of course we will stop to take in the sights and take some pics or why even come here?
Pace Option 4:A very strenuous and fast challenging pace of about 4.0 led by Justin. No complaints about this pace being too fast because you knew what you were getting into when you signed up for it-grin! 
Trail Information
Activity Type: Hiking
Nearby City: Williamsport
Length: 7.1 total miles
Terrain: Follow a well-worn forest path, shale walkways, and dirt roads through a natural area of 500-year-old trees; walk alongside a raging mountain stream past 22 naked waterfalls
Elevation Gain: 1,081 feet
Trail Type: Loop
Skill Level: Moderate but since we offer an easy pace option, it makes this a hike for everyone, yay! If you are a new hiker or uncertain of your skill level, please select the hike pace option 1.
Duration: Will vary based on which pace you hike
Season: Year round
Trailhead Elevation: 1,220 feet
Top Elevation: 2,200 feet
Local Contacts: Ricketts Glen State Park
Local Maps: USGS Red Rock
Food, Gear, and Getting There
Please note there are three main topics to chat about for this trip in the comment section below. One is to discuss food, another for carpooling and transportation issues, and lastly and most importantly, gear (who has what to loan, share, or borrow, etc.)
Carpool Information
My suggestion is for carpoolers to meetup at Savage Station at 11:00 a.m. on May 4th, because check-in at our camp sites is not until 3:00 p.m. The drive is estimated to take 3.5 hours so it is not a very long drive and time flies by when you are talking with new or known friends (not to mention enjoying the scenery) on your way to this spectacular destination! Of course you may arrive earlier, however you will not be able to access the camp sites..but you can enjoy all the nearby parks, lake, and amenities!
Click Here for Directions to Savage Station Carpool Location.
If you can drive or want to carpool from additional locations such as the DC area, please feel free to do so. 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 Campground
Click Here for Directions to the Campground.
Fido is welcome on this weekend adventure if you stay in the parks dog friendly camp sites. We can accommodate dogs for this trip but we MUST have information about them as soon as possible. To reserve a dog friendly spot, please make your request via e-mail to [masked] and NOT in your RSVP, or the comment area because chances are I will not see it in time. Please note that simply writing that you will be bringing your dog does not get you a dog friendly spot. Thanks for your understanding. At this point and time I have rented enough of the dog friendly spots so that 4 dogs can come.
Campsite Reservations
We are camping on the big loop and have lake access so there should be great views of the lake and not other campsites! I reserved these sites about 6 months in advance so we could good great spots!
I wanted to ensure everyone would have a great view of the lake, or if they prefer, near (not next to) the restrooms with hot showers!
"There are no refunds for this event. I paid for all sites for when I made the reservations so I take a hit if they do not fill, which is my problem and not yours. However, before you commit, I just want it to be clear that there are no refunds, exchanges, selling or giving away your space, or applying the money for this trip to a future trip if you pay and then are unable to go. Please keep that in mind before signing up as I do not want any misunderstandings. No refunds, period. If you disagree with this, please do not sign up. Thanks and let's have a great trip”
Call, text, or e-mail me if you have any questions as that is what I a here for. Let's have good times and see you on the trail!
Kellie Carlisle: [masked]
Mike Harris: [masked]
Kristopher: [masked]
Bill Myette: [masked]
Justin C.: [masked]
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Kate Edwards
I enjoyed the trip very much. Jim Casserly was a jem. He transported my sister, me and all our equipment to and from. He was a great help setting up our site and making it a great home for the couple of nights.
Bill was a top notch guide for my group. He practiced much patience throughout the hike. He also got the opportunity to practice his first aid skills when I stupidly sprayed bug spray in my eyes. Thank goodness he knew what to do.
Thank you to all who have posted pictures.
I am sorry I do not know the name of the practiced camper/hiker who duck taped my boots together; the soles were coming off. How grateful I am for your know how!
What a beautiful site we had - lake view.
Would love to go back!2 · 6 days ago
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Laurel Buckley
So to all my friends I told that the flowers we saw were hydrangea they weren't... They were Hobblebush (Viburnum lantanoides)
Other common names: Moosewood
Family: Caprifoliaceae (Honeysuckle)
Height: 3 to 10 ft. (shrub)
Blooms: May to June
Leaf Type: toothed
Bloom Size: 1 in. (typical)
Flower Description: Flat or rounded clusters, Regular blooms, 5 parts
Location: Youghiogheny River Trail
Date: 5/22/2005Just so ya know!
1 · May 6
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Christine Zapp
Mmm, l am pretty good with my flowers too, but that one, not sure, and l believed you girlfriend, for that, not so forgiving as my friend Wayne, l think l will have to sleep on that one, for a night or two, sighhh,lol
1 · May 6
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Kellie Carlisle
What a fantastic group this was! It was great meeting making so many new friends as well as catching up with and just as many I have known and hiked for years to enjoy my favorite hike! Thanks for coming and I am already looking forward to returning in the fall when the leaves change color. Thanks for joining me for my favorite hike and camping trip and see you next time!
2 · May 6
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Wayne Martin
Kudos to Kellie, Mike H., Bill Myette and Kristopher for organizing such a wonderful trip. Without MAHG I would have never discovered Ricketts Glen.
2 · May 7
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DON ANDBERG
This was a great hike and social mingling event! Hey Kellie, have you folks set a prelim date for a Fall rickett's event? OR, approx date (to dovetail w Fall color?)
1 · May 6
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Amanda Carroll
My group enjoyed our first experience thoroughly. We will see you all again :)
2 · May 5
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Laurel Buckley
The hike was awesome, Bill did a great lead with a wide range of folks, The sites at the park were nice and restrooms clean, nice to have showers!
1 · May 5
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Bill Myette
Really good times with a lot of really great people! Many thanks to Kelly and Mike for making this a great hike!
1 · May 5
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Sravya
Hey guys, I have 2 spots for carpool in our car. I will be driving with my fiance from Baltimore. Let us know if you need a ride.
May 3
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laurie
Still hoping to hitch a ride with someone from Baltimore; I know it's last minute but I only found this group yesterday. Thanks!
May 4
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Frank
I am seeking a ride to go up on Saturday and return Sunday. I live in the Inner Harbor part of Baltimore, one mile from I-95. If you are driving up I-95, I can meet you somewhere convenient. Or meet at Savage.....
May 1
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laurie
Hi, did you ever get a ride, and if so, is there any more room for one more person? Thanks.
May 4
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ali
I could pick up one or more people. Need to coordinate before Friday night. I will be coming from Chantilly so the following places are convenient to pick up or drop somebody: Chantilly, Centreville, Sterling, Reston, Herndon and their vecinities.
We might return late Sunday, so it will be difficult to drop somebody off far east of Chantilly.May 2
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Paula
Still have a spot in my car for someone coming from Arlington. Apparently, all of my emails/notifications from Meetup are not making it to me. So, I will check this board back often.
Have we received any emails from Kellie yet?
May 3
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Wayne Martin
Deanna, Yesterday Kellie emailed the information for our campout including the instructions for checking in. If you didn't receive Kellie's email, send me an email and I will reply back with Kellie's instructions. I don't want to post the information here.
May 3
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Joni Plant
I would like to carpool from Savage area. I can take 2 if not too much equipment or I can ride with someone else. I can only stay Sat. night. Pace 2 or 3. Will definitely help with gas if riding. Thanks.
April 10
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Kate Edwards
Joni - my plans have changed. I am now riding up and back with Jim from Abingdon. I see Frank is seeking a ride up and back. So very sorry if this causes any problems. I will still have tent room and extra sleeping bags.
May 3
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ann carberry
Hi Joni, I see that Kate is no longer going with you. Can you let me know if you have room for me to ride with you now? call me at [masked]
May 3
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Christine Zapp
Leslie, Laurel, check your emails, Laurel my place 830, Leslie yes we will get you at KP.. see everyone else later on day, be safe everyone , happy travels!!
May 3
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Bill Myette
Hello, I'll have my van from Burke/Fairax/Arlington Saturday and returning Sunday with room for two passengers. Shoot me a text [masked]) if you need a ride.
May 3
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Sravya
Hey I am going to be camping with my partner and we will go for Pace 3. Does anyone have a spare tent(for two people) that we can borrow?
April 9
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Wayne Martin
Sravya, I haven't said anything because I'm not sure when I will arrive at the campground and I didn't want to keep you waiting to set up your camp. I have a 4 person dome style tent which I could loan you but I may not show up at the campground until around 5 pm.
1 · April 11
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DON ANDBERG
Pace #1. Hey all, any serious photographers in the crowd? I'm bringing a serious SLR camera w tripod & plan to go at (overall) snail's pace, enjoy Mother Nature, and the falls. Anyone know where/what the Best waterfalls are for photog?
1 · April 30
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Kellie Carlisle
Don, if I recall, the falls are all spring fed so the water is always flowing:)
May 3
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DON ANDBERG
Oh that's great. i had no worries about adequate streamflow this trip (spring-season runoff). And, perhaps it's good for the Fall trip, too? thanks
May 3
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Dell
My plans are foggy driving up (I don't know if we are leaving tonight or tomorrow) but I do know that I will be dropping my sister and sister-in-law off in D.C. on Sunday after the hike. I will be dropping them off next to the Convention Center and I can drop off one or two more campers in DC if you need a ride back. In addition, I live in Stafford, VA and can drop off a camper or two along my route. Let me know by Sunday if you want a ride back. Happy Camping/Hiking!
May 3
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Krystal Simmons
I have a ride up to the park, but the ride right back into DC would be awesome!
May 3
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Kate Edwards
Hi Brendan - I have some kabobs and would love to use your new campfire grill! I will have to get one myself if I find it works. It sounds great.
2 · May 3
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Krystal Simmons
Hi guys! DC girl seeking ride and tent to share! Hoping to get a ride with somone leaving Sat and coming back Sun, from the DC/VA area. Excited to go!
May 2
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ali
I could pick up one or more people. Need to coordinate before Friday night.
I will be coming from Centreville / Chantilly / Fairfax area.May 2
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ali
I will be glad to pick you up and drop you off from Centreville P&R. But please keep in mind that we don't know how late we will arrive Sunday night. If you don't have transportation to get back home (especially you might have some gear with you), please arrange something in case we arrive late. Regards,
May 2
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Wayne Martin
The stars are in alignment for an absolutely perfect Ricketts Glen waterfall hike; the Eta-Aquarid Meteor Shower peaks on the morning of our hike. The meteor shower will be near the star Eta in the constellation Aquarius the Water Bearer. Another name for the Eta star is Hydria, from the Greek word ‘υδρια (hudria), meaning "water jar". We won't be able to see the meteor shower until around 4 A.M. and it will only be visible for less than 2 hours because sunrise at Ricketts Glen is at 5:58 A.M. but isn't this a good omen for our hike.
6 · May 1
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Wayne Martin
Sure. You won't get a clear view from the campground because the campground is pretty heavily forested but if you walk about 1/2 mile back to the road which crosses Lake Jean you get an unobstructed view of the sky.
May 2
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Wayne Martin
Amanda, I just realized that you may want to sleep in on Sunday because the meteor shower is better viewed from the more southern latitudes. According to the EarthSky WEB site, "North of 40 degree latitudes the meteors numbers tend to be few and far between." Ricketts Glen is just north of 41 degrees latitude so we will see some meteors but it won't be the 20 - 40 meteors per hour that will be viewed by people to our south. I'll be up at that time anyway walking my dog but I sure would hate for someone else to get out of bed that early and not see something spectacular.
May 2
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Paula
I still have room in my car for someone coming from Arlington/Alexandria. Just message me.
April 26
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Paula
Hi Ann. I'm hoping to avoid stopping at the carpool spot. But if I can't find anyone who needs a ride from the Arlington area, I will let you know.
April 30
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Wayne Martin
Like Steve G. said, the campsites are non-electric. Here is the campground map so you will know where the campsites are located at: http://www.dcnr.state...
May 2
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Steve Rupert
Whoever is in charge at the Savage Station carpool, Patti P and I will meet you there. We are driving her smaller gas efficient vehicle to the campground, but want to meet others and join the convoy.
May 2
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Sharlene
Hi everyone,
Is anyone open for a carpool? I live in NW DC but can metro anywhere (or bike if I need to) and am willing to pitch in as much as I can. PLease let me know :)May 1
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Edward Schaefer
I' leaving from Falls Church Saturday morning. If anyone needs a ride, let me know.
April 30
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Christine Zapp
Just remembering when it was my first hike with Mid Atlantic, now its my 12th! U will be absouluatly fine!
1 · April 30
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Kate Edwards
I have been asking for help in finding a ride back to Abingdon suggesting a drop off from rt. 83. It would actually be 95N around exit 77.
April 30
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Christine Zapp
Is there anyone from DC going ? Zizi is looking for a ride and she would really like to go.
April 29
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Kate Edwards
My sister and I would like to be included in the Pace 3 group. We love to take pictures but I am sure there would be time to snap them and stay up with group. If indeed I hike too slowly would it be possible to join a Pace 2 group midway? How do we stagger the start times for the different groups. Forgive me if this info. is included in the existing details. I will read them again.
March 28
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Steve G.
+1 to what Wayne said. I'm not coming on this trip, but I think I can safely speak for all of us hike leaders, if you don't show up when we do a head count, we will absolutely go looking for you, in (at least for me) a minor state of panic (which would quickly turn major if you weren't quickly found). I can't over emphasize this, if/when you leave a group, let the leader know face-to-face.
1 · April 29
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Edward Schaefer
I'm coming from Falls Church, and could use a companion for the trip. Call me at [masked].
April 29
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67 attended
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Justin Carlisle
Certified Hike Leader and Wilderness Medical First Responder, Co-Organizer
Event Host
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Dawn +1
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Fang Fu
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Abe Shoyeb
Pre-Approved for Very Strenuous Hikes!
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Julie +2
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Deanna Adams +1
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Kate Edwards +1
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Dave +1
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Maria +1
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Sravya +1
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Dell +2
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Gwen Stewart +1
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Paula Gordon +1
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Kathy +1
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Your organizer's refund policy for Camping at Ricketts Glen State Park! 22 Falls in 7 Miles! Need We Say More?
Refunds are not offered for this Meetup.
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