James River Hikers

Some of my hikes include much historical commentary, and others are primarily just hikes. This one is in the former category so expect to make frequent stops to discuss the historical sites we'll come by. - How did Oregon Hill get its name? - Who is the "Founder" of Richmond, and what were the sexual exposes involving him and his much younger wife all about? - What was the 1870 "Richmond Calamity" all about? - What local author wrote a book for which Warner Brothers made a movie staring Bette Davis and Olivia DeHavilland? - Why is the question of who was the first Confederate to fall in battle so convoluted? - What's the jaw-dropping thing about the criminal who placed the capstone on the Confederate Monument that is as incredible as the story about how we got that job done? - What famous woman insisted her husband had a bastard son? Was she right? - What was the "conspiracy of silence" among lots of U. S. Army soldiers prior to the War Between the States? - Why were two women buried in the Confederate section of the cemetery when it was strictly reserved for Confederate soldiers? Who are they? - What are the two things about Catherine Hodges that makes her unique at Hollywood Cemetery? - What is a vivandier? Come on this hike and you learn the answers and much more. We will begin at Stuart Circle in the Fan. Parking is available on the street and eleven specific spaces on the 1st level of the parking structure across Lombardy Street from One Monument Avenue apartments and behind the First English Lutheran Church. The address of the church is 1603 Monument Ave, Richmond, VA 23220. Eleven first level spaces with signs "Reserved for OMA" are available for you at no cost. Other spaces in the parking structure require a $5 fee as described by the signage. The address of the church is 1603 Monument Ave, Richmond, VA 23220. We will assemble here at the front of One Monument Avenue. We'll gather here at the main entrance to One Monument Avenue.

We leave promptly at the scheduled time, so come on-time or early. This hike may be challenging as we will do approximately 3 miles per hour or an 19-22 minute mile pace for about 6 miles up and down hills and staircases to parks and points of interest in Church Hill. This hike will take place rain or shine. Only lightening, heavy, windy rains or ice will stop us. IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT: This Meetup will be limited to no more than ten people and staying at least six feet away from others unless you're from the same household. Please keep the distance as we’ve had some hikers walk right next to others to talk and the lack of any distance has made them uncomfortable. There are many hills and staircases as the parks and points of interest are at higher elevations in Church Hill. Some staircases are optional. Optional staircases my be eliminated if hikers agree. Discover the Statue of Liberty in Richmond on the way. This hike offers great views of the River and different parts of the City. We might stop by the WPA bakery if you'd like to grab a to-go item. This hike starts at Buffalo Wild Wings (15th and Cary Street) and goes a short distance east on the Canal Walk and Capital Trail, up to Libby Hill Park, the Hidden Staircase, on to Chimborazo Park, by St. Johns Church, Richmond Hill, the Church Hill Overlook, Jefferson Park, and around the outside of the Capital Grounds before heading the short distance back to 15th and Cary. We will leave at the designated time so please leave early if you aren't sure how to get to 15th and Cary. If you must cancel, please do so as soon as possible as this hike is limited to 10 hikers.

Looking for an adventure this weekend? Seeking to "wash away" 2020? Just want to do something fun and crazy? Consider joining me for a 4 mile hike in Shenandoah that includes a walk or jump into freezing cold water (36 degree mountain water). My version of a Polar Plunge! I will be hiking with a small group, so sign up early! We will meet at Trader Joe's in Short Pump at 10 am this Saturday. People that know each other or are already in each other's circle may wish to ride together. There is a $35/car charge to get into the park if you do not have a park pass. The hike (ROSE RIVER FALLS) is a 4 mile loop that includes views of 2 waterfalls. Those that dare can jump in the swimming hole at the base of the falls. It is about 5 feet deep at the deepest point. I took a thermometer there last Saturday to scout the event. Yes, I jumped in. The water was 35 to 36 degrees. Not for the faint of heart but SO much fun and refreshing! My sister and nephew will be joining me. I am going to limit the event to 5 additional people. Hope to see you out!

We will meet at the Watt House and hike the wooded trail of the National Park Service portion and proceed to the beautiful open fields of the most recently saved parts of the battlefield. This area is so pristine that it is said that a veteran of the battle would surely recognize it should they return to the scene. Gaines' Mill was third in the famous Seven Days Battles, the Union effort to capture Richmond in 1862. Areas of the trail will be muddy so be prepared. Bring snacks and water as needed. We will keep up a steady pace stopping at a few markers along the way. This battlefield and that of 1864 Cold Harbor share much of the same grounds. Following the hike, those interested will meet for lunch in an old country store on the site of the crossroads of the opening battle of Cold Harbor.