Bouldering

**This 'Grand Circuit' hard 8mile hike is an adventurous & scenic scamper! Pace: 3mph. The trek traverses varying terrain, with rolling hills that total to \~1000ft. of elevation gain, as well as repetitious rivulet crossings**... All while circumnavigating the lustrous Lake Frank, with two tantalizing trees (including MD's 8th biggest) along the way! The hike rock hops across Rock Creek, paralleling it and another stream, sauntering up to the green and serene SUNFISH POND. The trek then weaves through the wonderous woodland, eventually arriving at a former/ historical parking lot at the Lake. The circuit shortly shies away on a spur-loop down to the official Rock Creek Trail (RCT) afterwards, creeping by a CORRODED CAR, before approaching a **rocky & abrasive, yet awesome ascent nicknamed "P.R.A.T.N.E.W"\*!** The trek then dawdles over the earthworks of the Lake Frank Dam, offering vast views (as seen above), before skirting along the shoreline. An awful ascent up the *Old Nasty trail* leads to a spur-trail en route to the PRATHER FAMILY CEMETERY/ OBELISK (pictured)... After another look at the Lake, the hike may reveal another spur to "the Point", a dramatic (maybe marshy) spot where Rock Creek feeds into the lake! The latter of the circuit begins with a 'fork in the road', of which the 'hard option' trails a narrow ridgeline via a tricky **"TRAVERSE"\***! A beguiling boulder lies just beyond. The trek then continues beneath a COVERED BRIDGE before snaking through the Smith Center-- home to a pioneer farmstead, a fire watch tower, and an obstacle course (-- possibly a future Meetup??). The hike concludes by visiting some farm animals as well as Birds of Prey, terminating with an overlook of a puny pond. NOTES: 1\. Trail Forecast= [MAP](https://montgomeryparks.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/lake-frank-meadowside-trails-map_a11y.pdf) \| Boots & Trek poles advised\.\.\. Trek trajectory subject to change\. 2.\*= **P**ainter's **R**ocks **A**nd **T**he **N**ew **E**ngland **W**ay... Please heed that this as well as (the) "TRAVERSE" ascents are precarious & not suitable for beginner hikers. 3\. Post\-social BYO Picnic Lunch\, but be sure to pack a snack too\!

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 every Sunday 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?

**10 miles, 500" elevation on a paved road closed to cars with a few manageable hills. For Beginner Riders who want to ride with a group and begin to increase their riding distance. Leisurely pace (8 - 10 miles per hour).** **Register here:** **[Beginner Rock Creek Bicycle Ride](https://washingtonwomenoutdoors.wildapricot.org/event-6644529)** $15.00 for non-members, free for members. Have you wanted to ride with a group but you weren't sure you were ready or that you could ride far enough? This is the ride for you! On this social-paced ride, you'll enjoy the beauty of Rock Creek Park as we ride an easy five miles out and five miles back on Beach Drive (approximately 1.25 hours of riding), which is now closed to traffic. Before we start, we'll go over guidance for riding in a group, basic bicycle maintenance and safety tips. (Note: this is not a "how-to-ride class.") This is a no- drop ride, with a leader and a sweep and no one will be left behind. Suitable for all bicycle types. 1. **You must register and pay for this event on our website at this link:** **[Beginner Bicycle Ride in Rock Creek Park](https://washingtonwomenoutdoors.wildapricot.org/event-6644529)** Register early on our website to reserve your spot! 2. ***No further trip details will be provided on Meetup.* Upon completion of registration, trip information will be forwarded by email**. If you do not see confirmation email from Washington Women Outdoors in your in-box, immediately check your spam folder. If you're not ready to register for this event and would like more information, please email: **[bike@washingtonwomenoutdoors.org](bike@washintonwomenoutdoors.org)** **Find out about WWO Member benefits [here.](https://washingtonwomenoutdoors.wildapricot.org/Membership)**

## Lake Artemesia Walk Join us for a relaxed, social walk around the scenic Lake Artemesia loop in College Park. This is an easy-paced group walk—perfect for fresh air, light exercise, and good conversation. We’ll complete the paved lakeside loop (\~1.5–2 miles) at a comfortable pace, enjoying peaceful water views, birds, and greenery along the way. Those who want to go around the lake multiple times, can do so. ### Meeting Point Parking lot of Lake Artemesia Berwyn Rd & Branchville Rd Entrance College Park, MD 20740 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\.

(Bus hike) Compton Peak is notable for its set of columnar jointing of basalt crystals with their distinctive hexagonal shape. Long hikers start in Chester Gap at Rt. 522 and ascend the AT into park, with moderate hikers joining their route at Compton Gap Trail. Both hikes end at Hogwallow Flats Overlook on the Skyline Drive. The high point of the hike, both literally and figuratively, is the 2,909-ft. Compton Peak, where optional side trails lead to the columnar basalt outcrop and to a viewpoint of the Shenandoah Valley below. Each side trail adds about ½ mile and 100-200 feet of ascent to the total hike mileage and elevation gain. Est.: 10 miles, 3200' elevation and 6 1/2 miles, 1900' elevation. PATC Map 9. Fare: $33 plus park fee or pass. VA Hikes * **[DC: Near 17th and K St. NW](https://bit.ly/17thandKnu)** downtown (east side of Farragut Square). Bus leaves at 8 a.m. SHARP, so it's essential to arrive well before 8 am. * **[Vienna Metro: NORTH parking lot](http://bit.ly/vienna-bus)**, last bus shelter (Nutley St. Exit off Interstate 66 on North/Vienna side of I-66) at approximately 8:25 a.m. Park at 9486 Virginia Center Blvd, Vienna, VA 22181 * * Caution: The "south" parking lot also has bus shelters. If by 8:15, you're not with a group of Wanderbirds hikers, you may be in the south lot. There's a walkway that passes the fare gates over I-66 to the north lot. The weather report for Sunday is looking favorable. The rain in the forecast should be out of the Front Royal area well before the hike starts. Also, the unseasonable heat will subside by Saturday. RESERVATIONS Wanderbirds Hiking Club is a 501(c)(7) non-profit, and the public is invited on all hiking trips. Reservations are accepted as late as Saturday, but reserving as early in the week as possible 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 and where you'll be boarding the bus. 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 a 2-mph pace. New hikers are required to first complete a moderate hike. **Liability Waiver:** Many of our hikes take place in remote wilderness areas where cell phone service is not available. Any person participating in any Club activity is responsible for their own safety, health and welfare, and must assume all risks and liabilities related to all Club activities. The Club, its hike leaders, hike sweeps, officers, and other representatives are not liable for any injuries, losses, or damage to persons, children, pets, and/or property, arising from any trips or activities of the Club. You are responsible for bringing enough water, food, and first aid supplies, including those for your personal medical conditions. CANCELLATION POLICY To cancel and receive a full bus hike refund, less a $5 processing fee, you must change your RSVP to "No" on Meetup **before NOON on the Friday** before the hike. If you change your RSVP after noon on the Friday before the hike, no refunds will be issued. Cancellations to Metro/carpool/trailhead hikes will not issue a financial refund, but hiker must change their Meetup RSVP to NO so that leaders do not wait for them at the trailhead. COVID PRECAUTIONS Anyone experiencing symptoms of upper respiratory illness should not attend the event. MORE DETAILS -- [SEE THE FAQS ON OUR WEBSITE](http://www.wanderbirds.org/faq.html)

Visit the U.S. National Arboretum consisting of a 4 - 5 miles. Botanically diverse scenery with a wide variety of different trees, bushes, etc. The terrain is mostly flat with paved trails and easy to hike. This hike is very scenic and is located only 40 minutes from Rt 295 and Baltimore's Beltway (I695). There is also a bonsai and rock garden near the parking lot that you can tour after the hike. Optional Lunch: Ivy City Smokehouse, 1356 Okie St, NE Washingtion. About 1 mile from the Arboretum. We'll meet at the large parking lot just off Rt-50/New York Ave. It can only be accessed from the outbound lane, so if you're coming into the city, stay in the left lane and make a hard u-turn just before Bladensburg Rd. Then stay in the far right lane, exit onto the frontage road, and the parking lot is through the gates on the right. We'll meet near the handicap parking spaces. Please give yourself some extra time to get there in case you miss the turn or your GPS leads you astray. \*\*\* IMPORTANT \*\*\* BY ATTENDING THIS EVENT, YOU AGREE TO THE LIABILITY WAIVER, INDEMNIFICATION, ASSUMPTION OF RISK, AND OTHER TERMS AND CONDITIONS ([https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Z39AGebAVz9c-3S4zf3tj4Eb7V9k3PrH/view](http://clicks.meetup.com/ls/click?upn=XbaZ37larFA-2FuV5MohrYpeeFH8SaLELkoIStEoknzd-2F8ocdenjTgD5soQhFNgggmWva8A0tCKWxpUrYSXDJc0HNd3pwGBIu3iGY9781cqXs-3DZUsn_5HU9VSXfINaig1mgAliT7bZcdaYCO12jq19ifkqRO4A7DIJJeSb9-2FKLm8lq-2FRjh939SQJ6NlTY2LgvZXRtfRmp3bfjWqhqu0wT-2FWGIkWy5kyowTf3bpWRj-2F5RRt9qsSXC30BH72Vr1y7fRmJ246DD2MbtGj5eycR7k9msYih5bIP9tvP4wVPX-2FKqsgDtCSZQw2o3F3EpF-2BrYKH-2B3dvAhB-2FmIjsdgs-2BCznNJU7Xyd-2FKafw2ja-2BmCN189XAKtKWF04SY5jet-2BNMUn96TFLFt05k9QPugr7ytnehT-2FnD8KmYEnXoSBhyENsOEUes8cfIokgK0FHF0xlvA6b5FTSDkHljzLUgsr-2BwupNXl7Pz7fanHe-2FuECvRRrbzeUBPZNRfe2oH344ki9cKKyiKtnu2sRpiLPxgT4wRwy20mb3dGNP98GzdzVvHealc7rOF0W6j0waj7kZ1XUsdwP3ekwktMwSg-2BHZiyYG3nMeWBNppzAdNC4-2FNvMrgX7EgCUDGndOLJuzhmT8zriWoSvOMIi2VzgqtpiFEFmTBmjhNpH8Y22bNbrrFw7nfqQR3Do-2Butg5pE7SbLdH-2F5OJqIAtZvZD7IeOCeO7ZE7f-2B3-2FhFVvjXswZUl4zCVZ0PVtxCAUkYaVlttq32hw7DQL3vHyxOOntsQYsxQ-3D-3D)) (revision 12/1/22). PLEASE READ THIS AGREEMENT CAREFULLY BEFORE RSVP'ING.

_**TIME CHANGE: DUE TO THE RAIN, WE WILL NOW BE MEETING AT 1PM._ # 🛼 Sunday Skate: The Takoma-Rock Creek Loop **Leader:** The fabulous Talida **Start:** WWI Memorial (Pershing Park) **Distance:** \~20 Miles \| **Level:** Intermediate ### **The Route Highlights** We’re heading north for a scenic loop hitting some of the best pavement in the District: * **The MBT Extension:** We’ll cruise the brand-new Metropolitan Branch Trail segment from Fort Totten to Takoma Park. It’s fresh, smooth, and fast! * **Takoma Park Pitstop:** A quick breather and hydration refill in Takoma before we cross over to the park. * **Rock Creek Flow:** We’ll drop into the park via Sherrill Drive for a car-free Sunday cruise down Beach Drive. *** ### **The Details** * **Difficulty:** Intermediate (Urban street navigation, trail transitions, and one descent). * **Surface:** Mostly 8/10 or better (shoutout to that new MBT asphalt!). * **Weather:** **Washington** on Sunday (April 19) will have **light rain** with a high of **56°F**. Northwest winds at **17 mph**—bring a light shell! ### **Let’s roll! Who’s in?** 💨 For up to the minute details, check Facebook and Instagram. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WashingtonAreaRoadskaters/events Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weareskatedc/ We hope to see you Sunday!

The heat wave ends on Sunday and showers should be finished by late morning. Let's meet at 2 pm for a hike across NW DC with a stop at the Cathedral. Since the hike will be on a Sunday, there should be free entrance into the Cathedral for folks who want to check out the glorious stained windows & other attractions. We will meet at 2 on by the Tenleytown metro station and walk down Nebraska to Foxhall Road and back up the Glover Archbold Trail. After the National Cathedral, we will wend our way back to Tenleytown. The starting point for the hike is a hop and a skip from a Whole Foods store with the best peanut butter cookies in the D.C. area. ❶ **What we'll do:** * From the meetup point we'll walk southeast along Wisconsin Ave NW, turn left at Nebraska Ave NW and follow it southwest to Foxhall Rd NW, * We will hook a left on Garfield Ave. and follow to the Glover-Archbold Trail through the woods back to Cathedral Ave. We will cross Wisconsin Ave and stop at the National Cathedral. We will then wend back to Tenleytown via 36th St., 37th St., and Van Ness. * Total distance is around 5 miles and should take about 2 hours, . The surface is paved and slightly downhill on the way out, and a slightly uphill mix of pavement and woodland trails on the way back. This is a fairly easy walk. * [map is for prior version of the hike; update pending] Google map: http://tinyurl.com/y9bthc7a ❷ **How to get there:** * Metro (recommended): The Tenleytown - AU Metro Station is on the Red Line. See the Metro Trip Planner at https://www.wmata.com/ * Driving: If you must drive, the Tenleytown - AU Metro Stationstreet address is 4501 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016. There is limited parallel parking in the area, but mind the street signs and leave plenty of time to find a spot! ❸ **What to bring:** Plenty of water, comfy shoes. ❹ **Weather:** The forecast is cloudy with a high temperature of 63F. Updates here: https://tinyurl.com/sw2ejvu8 ❺ **Advisory**: As a reminder, this is an adult group, and you are ultimately responsible for your own safety and well-being during events. No one under 18 years of age is allowed at this event, either as members or as guests, to include babies in carriers and/or strollers. Dogs must be leashed at all times. ❻ **Administrative stuff:** There are restrooms near the meetup point at Whole Foods, Chick-fil-A, Panera Bread, Starbucks, and Target and at the Cathedral.

Beginner-friendly meetup! Let’s get together and get started jumping this spring. We’ll learn some basic footwork fundamentals and have a great workout!

Over time I'm hoping to organize a hike to all the Franklin County Metro Parks. This is the first one so if you're interested jump in! We'll start with the Canopy Walk, a cool feature of this park. Climb 100 stairs to the top - or take the elevator if stairs aren't your thing. At the top there are a bunch of things to play on - a rope bridge, a fireman pole that we can slide down - and more! About fifteen minutes there and we'll head to the natural trail, Buttonbush, Maple and Beech Trail for 2.2 miles then do a 1.7 mile loop on the paved Greenway Trail. We'll be passing our cars as we transition if you only want to do the first loop, or the second loop. Pace of around 3.5 mph but no one left behind. If there is an interest we can grab lunch nearby afterward.

Our monthly meeting will be Sunday April 19th 1-4 PM This will be held at 4049 Garrett W Dr, Columbus, 43214 This is off of Olentangy River Rd, north of Riverside Hospital. This is the home of one of our members. Everyone is welcome - beginner to expert. This is a casual folding session. People will teach a few models.

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.

Our Golden Lotus Meditation & Lecture Cancelled! We will resume next Sunday April 26th. Hope to see you then. Until then remember to Meditate and do your Kriyas

Let’s walk the gardens and enjoy what has spring has on display.