
What we’re about
Welcome to Take a Hike! (DMV) – a friendly and inclusive group for anyone who loves exploring the outdoors in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia area! Whether you’re an experienced hiker or simply looking to spend more time in nature, this group is for everyone interested in discovering new trails and meeting new people.
We organize hikes across the DMV area, focusing on scenic and accessible trails within an easy drive of DC. Each outing is a social experience where you can enjoy great conversations, make new friends, and connect with a diverse community of outdoor enthusiasts. Some hikes may be more challenging than others, but each one promises adventure, camaraderie, and the assurance that we don’t leave anyone behind.
After the hike, join us for an optional social get-together for lunch at a local spot nearby! It’s a great chance to unwind, share stories from the hike, and build friendships over good food and relaxed conversation.
Lace up your boots, bring a sense of adventure, and come Take a Hike! with us!
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Take a Hike! @ Sugarloaf Mountain, Friday Hike (1-4pm) & Happy Hour!! (4-7pm)Sugarloaf Mountain West View Parking Lot, Dickerson, MD
Come enjoy a day filled with fresh air, great views, and friendly company as we hike Sugarloaf Mountain! This hike is all about enjoying the outdoors, getting some exercise, making new friends, and sharing a memorable experience with a great group of people.
We’ll meet at the West View Parking Lot (check the map pin for the exact location) and head out on a 5.5-mile loop that will take about 3 hours. The hike kicks off with a good workout along the Blue Trail loop. About mid way, we’ll pause to take in the stunning views, snap some photos, and catch our breath at a scenic overlook.
After the hike, join us for a casual Happy Hour meetup at Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard. The Friday Happy Hours offer food, wine & music, from 4 to 7pm.
It’s the perfect way to relax, enjoy good conversation, and toast to a fantastic day spent outdoors.We’re excited to have you join us! Be sure to wear your hiking shoes, bring water, and pack your positive energy. Let’s make this a fun and refreshing day together!
Meeting Time & Location:
We’ll meet at 1:00pm at the Sugarloaf Mountain West View Parking Lot. Look for us by the picnic tables near the trailhead.Distance: 5.7 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,063 feet
Difficulty: Level 3 - Intermediate Hike
This hike is rated Level 3 for its moderate inclines. The trail then descends for about 3 miles, with a few final inclines returning to the parking lot. There are no stream crossings or rock scrambles.Estimated Duration
This hike is expected to take approximately 3 hours.Pace: Moderate Pace
We'll walk a steady, comfortable 2 mph pace that’s manageable for most hikers with a reasonable fitness level. Breaks are regular but not overly frequent, allowing for a balanced experience of exercise and enjoyment.Parking
We’ll park at the West View Parking Lot, which has plenty of spaces available and is a convenient starting point for our hike. Please refer to the event map to locate the correct parking area. Do not park at the East View Parking Area, which is the first parking area you’ll pass.** Trail Map **
We will be hiking the Blue trail loop.Restrooms
There are a couple of porta-potties located at the trailhead for your convenience. Be sure to plan accordingly, as these are the only restroom facilities available on this hike.Happy Hour after the Hike
Join us for a relaxed Friday Happy Hour at Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard after the hike. They have live music and the DM Sliders food truck available from 4:00pm until 7:00pm. Feel free to bring your own food or simply enjoy a glass of wine with the group. Please note that outside alcohol is not permitted, but the vineyard offers a wonderful selection of wines available for purchase. Dogs are welcome if kept on a leash.This is a wonderful chance to relax, take in the scenic views, and connect with the group.
Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard
18125 Comus Rd, Dickerson, MD 20842 - Take a Hike! @ Billy Goat Trail (Sect A)Carderock Cliffs North Parking, Potomac, MD
Join us for a challenging adventure on the Billy Goat Trail, Section A (lower half). This iconic 5.1-mile hike features rugged terrain, rock scrambles, and stunning views of the Potomac River - offering a true taste of the outdoors just outside the city.
We'll keep a steady pace, support each other through the rocky sections, and take breaks to enjoy the river scenery. Whether you're here to test your limits, share some good conversation, or simply spend time in nature, this hike is all about tackling the challenge together.
This is a moderately difficult hike with uneven ground and multiple rock scrambles. Sturdy footwear and good balance are essential. While not a technical climb, it's a step up from a typical walk in the woods - perfect for those looking to elevate their hiking experience.
To learn more about the trail, click the link in the Trail Map section below.
Meeting Time & Location:
Join us at 9:30 AM at the Carderock Cliffs North Parking Lot. We'll meet at the trailhead, located midway down the parking lot on the right side (as you enter).Distance: 5.1 miles
Elevation Gain: 138 feet
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
This hike includes uneven terrain, narrow paths, and several rock scrambles that require good balance and sturdy footwear. It’s best suited for hikers with some experience or those looking for a more adventurous challenge.Estimated Duration
This hike is expected to take approximately 3 hours.Pace: Moderate Pace
We’ll maintain a steady, comfortable pace with regular but brief breaks for a balanced mix of exercise and enjoyment.Parking
Free parking is available at the Carderock Cliffs North Parking Lot, which is also our meeting point.Trail Map (AllTrails)
Take a Hike! @ Great Falls Overlook (Maryland)Restrooms
Restrooms are available at the trailhead parking lot.Dog Attendance
For everyone’s safety and in accordance with park rules, dogs are not permitted on Section A of the Billy Goat Trail. We kindly ask that you leave your pets at home for this hike. Thank you for understanding!Lunch After the Hike
TBD - Take a Hike! @ Sugarloaf Mountain, Friday Hike (1-4pm) & Happy Hour!! (4-7pm)Sugarloaf Mountain West View Parking Lot, Dickerson, MD
Come enjoy a day filled with fresh air, great views, and friendly company as we hike Sugarloaf Mountain! This hike is all about enjoying the outdoors, getting some exercise, making new friends, and sharing a memorable experience with a great group of people.
We’ll meet at the West View Parking Lot (check the map pin for the exact location) and head out on a 5.5-mile loop that will take about 3 hours. The hike kicks off with a good workout along the Blue Trail loop. About mid way, we’ll pause to take in the stunning views, snap some photos, and catch our breath at a scenic overlook.
After the hike, join us for a casual Happy Hour meetup at Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard. The Friday Happy Hours offer food, wine & music, from 4 to 7pm.
It’s the perfect way to relax, enjoy good conversation, and toast to a fantastic day spent outdoors.We’re excited to have you join us! Be sure to wear your hiking shoes, bring water, and pack your positive energy. Let’s make this a fun and refreshing day together!
Meeting Time & Location:
We’ll meet at 1:00pm at the Sugarloaf Mountain West View Parking Lot. Look for us by the picnic tables near the trailhead.Distance: 5.7 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,063 feet
Difficulty: Level 3 - Intermediate Hike
This hike is rated Level 3 for its moderate inclines. The trail then descends for about 3 miles, with a few final inclines returning to the parking lot. There are no stream crossings or rock scrambles.Estimated Duration
This hike is expected to take approximately 3 hours.Pace: Moderate Pace
We'll walk a steady, comfortable 2 mph pace that’s manageable for most hikers with a reasonable fitness level. Breaks are regular but not overly frequent, allowing for a balanced experience of exercise and enjoyment.Parking
We’ll park at the West View Parking Lot, which has plenty of spaces available and is a convenient starting point for our hike. Please refer to the event map to locate the correct parking area. Do not park at the East View Parking Area, which is the first parking area you’ll pass.** Trail Map **
We will be hiking the Blue trail loop.Restrooms
There are a couple of porta-potties located at the trailhead for your convenience. Be sure to plan accordingly, as these are the only restroom facilities available on this hike.Happy Hour after the Hike
Join us for a relaxed Friday Happy Hour at Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard after the hike. They have live music and the DM Sliders food truck available from 4:00pm until 7:00pm. Feel free to bring your own food or simply enjoy a glass of wine with the group. Please note that outside alcohol is not permitted, but the vineyard offers a wonderful selection of wines available for purchase. Dogs are welcome if kept on a leash.This is a wonderful chance to relax, take in the scenic views, and connect with the group.
Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard
18125 Comus Rd, Dickerson, MD 20842 - Take a Hike! @ Sugarloaf Mountain, Friday Hike (1-4pm) & Happy Hour!! (4-7pm)Sugarloaf Mountain West View Parking Lot, Dickerson, MD
Come enjoy a day filled with fresh air, great views, and friendly company as we hike Sugarloaf Mountain! This hike is all about enjoying the outdoors, getting some exercise, making new friends, and sharing a memorable experience with a great group of people.
We’ll meet at the West View Parking Lot (check the map pin for the exact location) and head out on a 5.5-mile loop that will take about 3 hours. The hike kicks off with a good workout along the Blue Trail loop. About mid way, we’ll pause to take in the stunning views, snap some photos, and catch our breath at a scenic overlook.
After the hike, join us for a casual Happy Hour meetup at Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard. The Friday Happy Hours offer food, wine & music, from 4 to 7pm.
It’s the perfect way to relax, enjoy good conversation, and toast to a fantastic day spent outdoors.We’re excited to have you join us! Be sure to wear your hiking shoes, bring water, and pack your positive energy. Let’s make this a fun and refreshing day together!
Meeting Time & Location:
We’ll meet at 1:00pm at the Sugarloaf Mountain West View Parking Lot. Look for us by the picnic tables near the trailhead.Distance: 5.7 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,063 feet
Difficulty: Level 3 - Intermediate Hike
This hike is rated Level 3 for its moderate inclines. The trail then descends for about 3 miles, with a few final inclines returning to the parking lot. There are no stream crossings or rock scrambles.Estimated Duration
This hike is expected to take approximately 3 hours.Pace: Moderate Pace
We'll walk a steady, comfortable 2 mph pace that’s manageable for most hikers with a reasonable fitness level. Breaks are regular but not overly frequent, allowing for a balanced experience of exercise and enjoyment.Parking
We’ll park at the West View Parking Lot, which has plenty of spaces available and is a convenient starting point for our hike. Please refer to the event map to locate the correct parking area. Do not park at the East View Parking Area, which is the first parking area you’ll pass.** Trail Map **
We will be hiking the Blue trail loop.Restrooms
There are a couple of porta-potties located at the trailhead for your convenience. Be sure to plan accordingly, as these are the only restroom facilities available on this hike.Happy Hour after the Hike
Join us for a relaxed Friday Happy Hour at Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard after the hike. They have live music and the DM Sliders food truck available from 4:00pm until 7:00pm. Feel free to bring your own food or simply enjoy a glass of wine with the group. Please note that outside alcohol is not permitted, but the vineyard offers a wonderful selection of wines available for purchase. Dogs are welcome if kept on a leash.This is a wonderful chance to relax, take in the scenic views, and connect with the group.
Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard
18125 Comus Rd, Dickerson, MD 20842