Bouldering

[Gypsy Kitchen](https://www.gypsykitchendc.com/#gypsy-kitchen)'s menu is peppered not only with familiar ingredients like housemade hummus and whole roasted branzino, but also lesser known, delightfully flavorful creations like smoked duck prosciutto cured with oranges and tuna crudo with harissa and squid ink tuile. Small and large dishes ranging from $12 to $38. Take a look at the [menu](https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f282a42c0c6057ff41202e8/t/68f00ee40354521ecb0ceb76/1760562916363/GKDC-MAIN-10.15.25-v1.pdf) for details. IMPORTANT INFORMATION: * **CASH only.** * **Only sign up if you can commit.** * **Do not sign up if you are a maybe.** * **Do not sign up if you were a no show or canceled at the last minute in 2026 for one of my events.** * If your plans change, update your RSVP even if you are in the Waitlist. * Individuals that don't show or cancel in the last 24 hours will not be able to join future events organized by me in 2026. * Four days before the event, I will ask everyone in the Going list to confirm they are attending. I will ask everyone to confirm by the end of the day. Individuals that do not respond/confirm will be removed from the list and I will ask who in the Waitlist would like to join. * Please, respect these simple instructions. * The organizer reserves the right to change, cancel, and/or manage the event as they see fit. See you at Gypsy Kitchen!

You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer,https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "**I Accept**" to be permitted on the hike. **7 mile loop with a 679 ft. elevation gain that makes the hike the equivalent to a bit over 8.5 miles.** (400 ft gain = 1 mile) **Per Park Permit Guidelines, this hike is *limited* to *20 Hikers*** **Description**: **[Rock Creek Park](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/index.htm)** is truly a gem in our nation's capital. This 1,754 acre city park was officially authorized in 1890, making it the third national park. It offers visitors the opportunity to escape the bustle of the city and find a peaceful refuge, recreation, fresh air, majestic trees, wild animals. This hike starts from the **[Rock Creek Park Nature Center](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/nature-center-and-planetarium.htm)**[ ](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/nature-center-and-planetarium.htm)(Plenty of Free Parking; closed Mon/Tues), crosses Military Road heading north along the **[Western Ridge Trail,](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/maps.htm)** over the **[Boundary bridge](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/maps.htm)** and then south following the creek to the **[Valley Trail](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/maps.htm)**, and then back to the **[Nature Center.](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/nature-center-and-planetarium.htm)** **Pace:** pace is about 2 - 2.5 mph while moving. **Bring**: adequate water/hydration, also snack/lunch, insect repellant as Tick Season is here and sturdy hiking shoes since there are rocky areas, tree roots and a stream crossing, **Dogs:** Dogs are **not** welcome on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. **Weather:** weather in this location is **[HERE](https://weather.com/weather/hourbyhour/l/NoMa+Washington+District+of+Columbia?canonicalCityId=5449cc9af33d6584872016be78d0340d)**[.](https://weather.com/weather/hourbyhour/l/NoMa+Washington+District+of+Columbia?canonicalCityId=5449cc9af33d6584872016be78d0340d) **Meetup Location:** we will meet in the parking lot of the Rock Creek Park Nature Center & Planetarium (Closed Monday and Tuesdays) at 5200 Glover Rd NW, Washington, DC 20015. **GPS Coordinates : 38°57'34.1"N 77°03'05.6"W** **Maps** **[Hiking in Rock Creek Park](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/hiking.htm)** **[Rock Creek Park](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/maps.htm)**

**REQUIRED**: You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, [https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf](https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf) and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "I accept" to be permitted on the hike. The hike is about 12.5 miles with 1600 feet elevation gain in Sky Meadows State Park. We will start from the visitor center with a quick warmup climbing up North Ridge trail to the overlooks. After looping back down, we will head to lost mountain and hike almost every trail on the east side. We hike at a pace of **3-3.5 mph** when moving. Faster on flat/downhill sections. ***This is considered a fast hike. You must be experienced in hikes of this distance, elevation gain and speed.*** Leader: Xiaobin 857-408-1070 **The hike leader will meet at the** **trailhead at 8AM**. PLEASE NOTE: Neither the Club nor the hike leaders are responsible for coordinating transportation to/from the trailhead. Hikers are not guaranteed to get a ride to the trailhead from the carpool location. Carpooling is organized by the participants and they participate at their own risk. Trailhead: **Sky Meadows Visitor Parking at 8AM** GPS Coordinates: 38.99193015785012, -77.96586598358779 [https://goo.gl/maps/ppMunuKYabQcaH4w8](https://goo.gl/maps/ppMunuKYabQcaH4w8) Park Entry Fee: $10 or free if you have a Virginia State Park Pass or a receipt from participating REI stores in Virginia (details: [https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/pr-relz-detail?id=2016-05-18-14-32-37-164146-2x3](https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/pr-relz-detail?id=2016-05-18-14-32-37-164146-2x3)) Rating: A Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) Hiking Map: [https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uZ1XnrV92qQwTChGLe-bBFjNdtn5QcH7/view?usp=share_link](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uZ1XnrV92qQwTChGLe-bBFjNdtn5QcH7/view?usp=share_link)

Would you like to look deeper into the source of life? * Do you want to find your own answers to everyday questions? * Singing HU can bring you Love, Happiness, and Stability **You’re warmly invited to join us at our** **Friday HU Chant at 7:00 pm** **You will be welcome to chant out loud or simply listen, whatever is right for you. The chant lasts about 20 minutes, followed by brief contemplative time and conversation with others of like heart.** **Attend In-Person at:** **The Maryland Eckankar Center** **1738 Elton Rd., Suite 104** **Silver Spring, MD 20903** **(Doors open at 6:30 pm)** **For more information:** **Call or text: (301)439-2120** **MEC@eckankarmaryland.org** **Presented by the DC & Maryland Satsang Societies, Inc. Chartered Affiliates of ECKANKAR.** **Copyright © 2025 ECKANKAR. The terms ECKANKAR, ECK, EK, MAHANTA, SOUL TRAVEL, and VAIRAGI, among others, are trademarks of ECKANKAR, PO Box 2000, Chanhassen, MN 55317-2000 U.S.A.**

Bring your lights for the “Friday Night” Skate! **Join us for the Friday Night Skate!** See the monuments of DC all lit up at night! We will meet at the National World War I Memorial “Pershing Park” at 7pm. We’ll warm up with a nice easy skate to the Capital and skate along the mall and museums to the National Monument. We will then head to the Lincoln Memorial through the World War II Memorial. Those interested in just a 5.5 mile skate can backtrack to Pershing Park. The group will then proceed from the Lincoln to Haynes Point via Ohio Drive with the option to take the 3 mile loop (12 mile total skate) or sit by the water and enjoy the crisp air (8.5 mile total skate.) There are three options to loop back to the Pershing Park WWI Memorial and our path back will depend on the preferences / skill of the group. The skate is mostly flat on good pavement with a small slope coming down from the Washington Monument and a 40 yard small slop from the Lincoln to Ohio Drive. If skaters are more advanced we will cross the 14th St bridge, enjoy a few up and down hills and finish with a downhill through the 12th St. tunnel. Please feel free to jazz it up with lights, I wear a helmet bike light, a fun set of lights and lighted wheels! Wear your lights so you have fun, can see and be seen! In case of bad weather, I will cancel the skate by 6pm on this post. **Of course, all skating is at your own risk.**

Purpose of This Group This is a weekly gathering for spiritually awakened individuals, starseeds, and those on a journey of self-discovery who are seeking meaningful connection and community. We meet Saturday to share experiences, explore spiritual topics, and support each other in a grounded, open-minded, and respectful space. Whether you’re newly awakening or have been on this path for years, you are welcome here. COMMUNITY GUIDELINES: We welcome all members to engage with respect and kindness. Hate speech, bullying, or discrimination based on race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or any identity will not be tolerated. Sexual harassment, inappropriate comments, or sharing explicit content is strictly prohibited. Please respect privacy, communicate constructively, and report any violations to moderators. Any breach of these guidelines may result in warnings or removal from the community. Some discussion topics: 1. What do you feel is your unique spiritual purpose? • How do your everyday actions reflect this purpose? • Are there experiences or challenges that have guided you toward it? • What would fully living this purpose look like in your life today? 1. How has your past trauma shaped your spiritual journey? • Are there patterns from your childhood or family dynamics that still influence you? • How do you feel these experiences have awakened certain spiritual sensitivities? • What steps could help transform past pain into spiritual growth? 1. How do dysfunctional family dynamics impact your spiritual gifts? • Are there ways family expectations or criticism have blocked your inner gifts? • How can you set boundaries while still honoring family ties? • What lessons from your family history have strengthened your spiritual resilience? 1. How do you nurture your inner child through your spiritual awakening? • Are there unresolved wounds from childhood that need your attention? • How does reconnecting with your inner child influence your heart chakra? • What practices help you feel safe, loved, and whole in your inner self? 1. How is your heart chakra awakening influencing your life? • Do you feel more compassion and empathy than before? • Are there fears or past pain that prevent your heart from fully opening? • How can you consciously strengthen and balance your heart energy? 1. How do you experience the 4th dimension in your spiritual awareness? • Do you sense energies, synchronicities, or visions beyond the physical? • How does this awareness shift your perception of reality or relationships? • What practices help you navigate 4D experiences safely and grounded? 1. How can past traumas become a catalyst for spiritual service? • Are there personal experiences you can transform into wisdom for others? • How do your spiritual gifts support healing in your community or family? • If resources were unlimited, what healing work would you create? 1. How do you integrate spiritual awakening with shadow work? • Are there parts of yourself—anger, fear, or grief—that need attention? • How does exploring these shadows affect your heart and higher dimensions? • What rituals or practices help you reconcile inner darkness with your light? 1. How do you envision your multi-dimensional spiritual growth? • How do past life patterns, inner child work, or trauma shape your 4D self? • Are there limiting beliefs or blocks preventing your full awakening? • How can you actively cultivate alignment with higher consciousness and love? 1. How do you currently nurture your spiritual growth? • Are there practices or rituals that strengthen your connection? • What obstacles prevent you from deepening your spiritual growth? • How would your life change if you committed fully to these practices? 1. How do you handle spiritual challenges or doubts? • Are doubts a source of growth or frustration for you? • How do you differentiate between fear and true guidance? • What strategies help you realign with your spiritual path during tough times? 1. How do your relationships reflect your spiritual journey? • Are there people who inspire or block your spiritual growth? • How do you maintain healthy boundaries while supporting others? • In what ways could your spiritual gifts positively influence your community? 1. What is your vision for spiritual impact in the world? • If resources were unlimited, what service would you offer? • How does this vision align with your current life and actions? • What steps can you take now to start manifesting this vision? 1. How do you integrate your spiritual insights into daily life? • Are your decisions guided more by intuition or external expectations? • How do you recognize when you’re out of alignment with your higher self? • What small daily habits could deepen your connection to your spiritual path? 1. How do you perceive your spiritual evolution over time? • Can you identify key moments that shaped your spiritual awakening? • Are there lessons from past experiences you still need to fully integrate? • How do you envision your spiritual growth unfolding in the next 5–10 years? 1. What is your experience with Kundalini awakening? • How did you first notice the energy rising, and what physical, emotional, or spiritual sensations have accompanied it? • Have past traumas, inner child wounds, or karmic patterns influenced how your Kundalini energy flows? • How are you integrating this awakening into your daily life while balancing your chakras and higher-dimensional awareness? 1. How do you cope with feeling alone or misunderstood? • Are there moments when isolation felt necessary for your growth? • How do you maintain connection with like-minded people or community? • What practices help you feel grounded and supported when alone? 1. How do you distinguish between your intuition and fear-based thoughts? • Are there specific sensations or signs that guide you? • How have past experiences shaped your fear patterns? • What tools or rituals help you strengthen trust in your intuition? 1. How do you protect your energy while staying open and compassionate? • Are there situations or people that drain or destabilize your energy? • What boundaries or practices help you maintain balance? • How do you remain receptive to others without overextending yourself? 1. How do you discern spiritual guidance from mental over-analysis? • Are there synchronicities or patterns that feel like guidance? • How do you manage self-doubt or overthinking loops? • What practices help you stay present and attuned to subtle signs?

**Billy Goat A, B and C, a Challenging 10.5 Mile Hike** SEE IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON REGISTRATION UNDER "NOTES." Located within the Chesapeake and Ohio (C&O) Canal National Historical Park, the Billy Goat Trail is one of the most famous hiking circuits in the Washington, D.C. metro area. Split into three distinct sections—A, B, and C—it offers a variety of terrain ranging from technical rock scrambling to peaceful woodland paths. We will hike all three sections. Section A is the most famous and difficult portion of the trail. It is renowned for its rugged terrain along the edge of the Mather Gorge and spectacular views. Expect heavy rock scrambling that requires the use of both hands and feet. The highlight is the "Traverse," a 40-foot climb up a near-vertical rock face at a 45-degree angle. Section B offers a transition between the intensity of Section A and the ease of Section C. It is currently a favorite for those who want a river experience without the vertical intensity of the northern section. The trail winds through silver maple forests and across small rocky beaches. It feels more secluded and offers several spots to sit by the water's edge. Section C is ideal for birdwatchers and hikers looking for a scenic but low-impact outing. This section is heavily forested and features several vernal pools (seasonal ponds) that are home to rare plants and amphibians. It is the least technical of the three sections. It offers excellent views of the Potomac River through the trees and access to several sandy floodplains. This is a challenging hike due primarily to the A section. Sturdy hiking boots with non-slip treads are a must. And be prepared to put your rock scrambling skills to a test. Please do not attend this hike unless you are skilled at rock scrambling. Dogs are not permitted on this hike due to the restrictions of Billy Goat A. **Time to Meet**: Please meet at 8:45 for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 9:00 **Contact Information**: Please use the comments feature for routine comments and questions. The hike Leaders is Christa (410-610-6254) and Tim (202-744-0289). Call or text as needed. **Directions to Trailhead:** The GPS Coordinates are [39.001617, -77.247334](https://www.google.com/maps/place/39%C2%B000'05.8%22N+77%C2%B014'50.4%22W/@39.001617,-77.247334,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m4!3m3!8m2!3d39.001617!4d-77.247334?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) The Street address is [11710 MacArthur Blvd, Potomac, MD 20854](https://www.google.com/maps/place/39%C2%B000'05.8%22N+77%C2%B014'50.4%22W/@39.001617,-77.247334,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m4!3m3!8m2!3d39.001617!4d-77.247334?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). NOTE: From this address, follow signs down to the visitor center parking lot. NOTE: There is a $20 entrance fee per car unless you have a National Parks Pass. **Details:** Rating: Moderate Distance: 10.5 miles Elevation Gain: Approximately 400 feet Pace: 2.0 to 2.25 miles per hour; slower on Billy Goat A Facilities: There is a toilet near the trailhead Fees: $20 parking fee or Pass for National Parks **Cancellation:** In the unlikely event that the hike needs to be cancelled, it may be cancelled up to the evening before the hike. Hikers will be notified through comments on this posting. **Weather:** The weather for this location can be found [here](https://weather.com/weather/today/l/11b14a8b4739108b3cc0c240111f9e44bf73c9d24f533f2a71def50e63f1ae3a). **Notes:** \- RSVP TO ATTEND THIS HIKE\. IF YOUR PLANS CHANGE\, UPDATE YOUR RSVP BY 6:00 PM THE DAY BEFORE SO THERE IS TIME TO BACKFILL YOUR SPOT\. SIGNING OUT AFTER 6:00 PM WILL RESULT IN A "NO SHOW\." REPEATED NO SHOWS WILL RESULT IN BARRING YOU FROM FUTURE HIKES WITH THIS LEADER\. IF YOU ARE ON THE WAITLIST\, CHECK YOUR STATUS SOON AFTER 6:00 PM THE DAY BEFORE TO SEE IF YOU ARE ON THE "GOING" LIST\. -Please do not show up unregistered. -Please keep this a fragrance free event. -To find out more about PATC, [click here](https://www.patc.net/). -Consider becoming a member of PATC. To join, [click here.](https://www.patc.net/membership)

Let's get together to play some fun BB level Quads games at Bluemont. **Format**: Doubles **COST**: FREE **Court Type**: Outdoor grass **Minimum Skill Requirements**: Intermediate-BB (click [here](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/mobilebasic) for details) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Smiley Social documents:** 1. [Group Rules ](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg) 1. [Liability Waiver ](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco) 1. [Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/)

Below is the alltrails link to the hike: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/maryland/capital-crescent-trail We will only be doing 3 miles overall in this hike, out and back. Parking and Metro Access: Park in the garage near 7150 Woodmont Ave, Bethesda, MD 20815. Or park on the streets----- street-parking is free on Sundays. For metro: just get down at Bethesda metro station. We will meet at the trailhead next to the Ourisman Honda, check out the photo section of this event for a visual of the location. Bring plenty of water, whatever you need for your hike, and your awesome authentic self. Keep it easygoing. RELEASE OF LIABILITY & ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT: By being a member of this Group, RSVPing to any Activity, or participating in any Activity, You accept and agree to the terms and conditions described below: 1. You acknowledge that hiking in nature carries the risk of potential harm to yourself, including the risk of injuries such as broken bones or muscle/tendon injuries, illness, disability, or death. 2. You agree that You will at all times be responsible for Yourself and Your own safety. 3. You release and hold harmless with respect to all injury, disability, death, or loss of property, whether caused by negligence or otherwise, this group's leadership and members for the hikes that you participate in. 4. You acknowledge and agree that this Group is merely a collection of friends or potential friends who enjoy doing activities, and that in no event does any Organizer or Other Member assume any responsibility or liability for You. 5\. You agree not to sue and to release\, discharge\, waive and hold harmless all organizers and other members from and against all liabilities\, claims\, demands\, losses\, damages\, suits and proceedings\, for negligence\, carelessness or any other cause which you may have or that hereafter may accrue arising\, resulting from or related to your membership in this group or participation in any activity\.

**Park Map / Trailhead hike – NO BUS** *$5. Long hike: 13 mi., 2000 ft. elevation gain. Moderate hike: 9 mi., 1500 ft. elevation gain.* From the Visitor Center, all hikers will take a loop that provides vistas at Chimney Rock, Wolf Rock, Thurmont Visit, and the Blue Ridge Summit. Moderate hikers will complete the loop by descending towards Rte. 77, taking in the brief detour to Cunningham Falls, and returning to the Visitor Center. Long hikers will continue along Park Central Road and the Catoctin Trail (with an option of a detour to view Cunningham Falls), eventually descending to Rte. 77 and, after crossing the road, taking the Falls Nature Trail to return to the Visitor Center. *** RESERVATIONS Capital Hiking Club is a non-profit group, and the public is invited on all trips. Reservations are accepted as late as Friday, but reserving before Wednesday night helps ensure your spot and prevent cancellation of the hike due to low sign-ups. RSVP through Meetup and pay through PayPal. Please be sure your RSVP gives your full name and phone number. FIRST-TIME HIKERS If you're a first-time hiker with us, please notify the leaders in advance so they can make sure you have the info you need. Hikers must be able to keep at least a 2 mph pace. LIABILITY By RSVP'ing for a CHC hike, you acknowledge and accept that hikers are responsible for their own safety and must assume risks and liability for all outings. CHC leaders, officers, and representatives shall not be liable for any injuries, loss or damage to persons or property, direct or consequential, arising out of any trips or club activities. Participants will be asked to sign a waiver the day of the hike. CANCELLATION POLICY To cancel and receive a full refund less a $5 processing fee, you must change your RSVP to "No" on Meetup **before 12PM the Thursday** before the hike. If you change your RSVP after 12PM the Thursday before the hike, no refunds will be issued. MORE DETAILS -- **[SEE THE FAQS ON OUR WEBSITE](https://www.capitalhikingclub.org/hikes-faqs)**

Main Library, Meeting Room 2B Join us for a welcoming evening of reflection, gentle music, and meaningful conversation. We’ll begin with a short grounding moment, followed by a brief reading from spiritual or philosophical traditions, and an open reflection circle where participants can share (or simply listen). Libera Animae is an interfaith community focused on inner growth, creativity, and authentic connection. All backgrounds are welcome.

Join us for lunch/tea at Asterisk Supper Club to discuss our May book "Under the Oak Tree" by Suji Kim Lady Maximilian is the daughter of the powerful Duke Croyso, but she is rarely allowed outside her family’s sprawling castle for fear that her stutter will tarnish their noble name. When she is forced to marry Sir Riftan, a lowborn knight caught in one of her father’s schemes, Maxi doesn’t dare hope for happiness, let alone love. Her stumbling communication and his gruff manner sour their relationship before it can begin, and Riftan leaves without a word the morning after their vows are exchanged. Now, three years after their disastrous wedding night, Riftan has returned as a war hero. To Maxi’s surprise, despite rumors that he was offered marriage to Princess Agnes, a beautiful and renowned sorceress, Riftan still wants Maxi for his wife. And when he comes to claim her, his longing becomes a desire that bewilders Maxi, even as she is overcome by the scorching heat that Riftan’s presence ignites within her. As she learns to navigate the intricacies of her new life, Maxi will find herself and her courage, and discover that she is anything but powerless.

**We'll hike 3.4 miles on the Killdeer and Yellowlegs Trails - both out and back gravel trails. If we want more mileage we can repeat an out and back. Pace of around 3.5 mph, no one left behind and those who want to go faster sure can!** **As always optional lunch after.** **This is the second Metro Park in the lineup - with 21 to go (plus more are being added).** **Also I have a conflict and am not available so have asked Karin to lead!**

Join us for our Sunday Meditation Service - 'The Balanced Life!' Or join us on Facebook Live! Our Facebook Page is Golden Lotus Yoga for Spiritual Awareness