Canoing, Kayaking, Rafting

**NOTE: THIS IS NOT RECOMMENDED FOR INEXPERIENCED HIKERS.** **Details** Get ready to hit the trails at Turkey Run - this is a 5.38 mile hike at Turkey Run. This hike is a bit challenging, with a couple of **stream crossings**, and a couple of **significant elevation gains** (a total of 456 feet of elevation gain). Ideal for **intermediate to advanced hikers**. The trail includes shallow stream crossings, adding some fun technical elements along the way. We’ll take regular breaks to regroup, hydrate, and enjoy the scenery. **Hiking shoes are a must -** the trail is slippery, and the extra grip of hiking shoes is essential for safety. Also, don’t forget your **hiking poles**; they’ll be helpful at the stream crossings. After the hike, join us for a social gathering at \*\**Chiang Mai Thai Cookhouse [(6828 Old Dominion Dr., McLean)](https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=4250880837db9923fe99316769050373b426a317e7bdf43931605d5b92eba921JmltdHM9MTc3NDkxNTIwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=108cd8d6-7e8f-6b13-174d-ce097fb86ad8&u=a1L21hcHM_Jm1lcGk9NTZ-fkVtYmVkZGVkfkFkZHJlc3NfTGluayZ0eT0xOCZxPUNoaWFuZyUyME1haSUyMFRoYWklMjBDb29raG91c2Umc3M9eXBpZC5ZTjg0NDI0Nzc2MDUyNTc5NzcmcHBvaXM9MzguOTM0NzY4Njc2NzU3ODFfLTc3LjE3OTQzNTcyOTk4MDQ3X0NoaWFuZyUyME1haSUyMFRoYWklMjBDb29raG91c2VfWU44NDQyNDc3NjA1MjU3OTc3fiZjcD0zOC45MzQ3Njl-LTc3LjE3OTQzNiZ2PTImc1Y9MSZGT1JNPU1QU1JQTA)* to unwind, grab a bite, and enjoy time with fellow hikers. **Meeting Time & Location** Meet at 9:30 AM at Turkey Run’s Parking Lot C-1. **Distance:** 5.38 miles **Elevation Gain:** 456 feet **Difficulty Level:** Intermediate Hike (challenging stream crossings) This hike features moderate inclines and **challenging stream crossings** over slippery rocks. Hiking poles are recommended for added balance and stability. **Estimated Duration:** 3 hours This hike is expected to take approximately **3 hours**, which accounts for breaks, stream crossings, and group pace. **Pace:** Moderate Pace A steady, comfortable 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** Park in Turkey Run’s **Lot C-1,** where there's plenty of room for all. Grab a spot, lace up, and get ready to hit the trail! **Trail Map (AllTrails):** [Take a Hike! @ Turkey Run](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-367d794?u=i&sh=mdqqtd) **Bathrooms** There are no bathrooms available on this hike. Please plan accordingly. **Age Requirement:** Children under 18 are not permitted. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. **Dog Attendance** For everyone’s comfort and enjoyment, we kindly ask that you leave your dogs at home for this hike. Thank you for understanding! **Lunch After the Hike** Join us for a casual lunch at **Chiang Mai Thai Cookhouse (6828 Old Dominion Dr., McLean)**. Free parking is available in the garage off Beverly Rd.

Let's go for a hike along the C&O Canal Trail! It's been a while since our last hiking event, so this is a great way to get outside and enjoy the spring scenery. Although certain sections of the C&O Canal Trail present moderate to challenging terrain, this event will primarily utilize the more accessible, easier paths. Nevertheless, we are open to adjusting the route based on the group's preference for a more adventurous experience, including steeper inclines or longer distances. It's recommended to bring hiking boots, a water bottle, and snacks like trail mix or granola bars to keep your energy up. The entrance fee is $10-20, so it is recommended that you carpool if needed. We will rendezvous at Vienna Metro Station Parking Lot at 9:30 AM to discuss the carpooling situation before heading over. \*If the weather calls for rain that day, we will postpone it to a later date.

Old Rag is easily one of the best hikes on the east coast and definitely one of my favorite day hikes near DC. This trail has everything — rock scrambles, switchbacks, challenging climbs, false summits, and some of the most rewarding views in Shenandoah National Park. If you’ve never done Old Rag before, this is the perfect chance. We’ll be hiking the full Old Rag loop on Sunday, May 17. Expect a strenuous but super fun day outdoors with great people and incredible scenery. After the hike, we can stop for food/drinks nearby before heading back. We’ll meet at Balaton Metro Station at 9:00 AM and carpool to the trailhead. Drive time is around 1 hour 45 minutes. If you’re willing to drive, please comment below — carpooling makes the trip easier and more fun for everyone. Trail Facts • Difficulty Level: Strenuous • Length: 9.4 Miles • Duration: 5–6 Hours • Elevation Gain: 2,604 Feet • Permits: I already have the permits reserved — you can Zelle me $2 for your spot • Parking/Meetup: Balaton Metro Station • Dogs: Not Allowed • Trail: Old Rag Mountain Loop Trail Please only RSVP if you are fully committed since permits are limited. Looking forward to hiking with everyone!

**Details:** You \*must\* read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, [https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf](https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf) and answer the question “I accept” when you RSVP to be permitted on the hike. Meet at the outdoor plaza at McDonald’s across from the Rosslyn Metro entrance on N. Moore Street. Street parking on Sundays should be free, but double check just in case. This is an 8 mile hike that will start on N. Lynn Street. We will cross the bridge, go into Georgetown, and heads towards the waterfront. From there we will use various streets to make our way to our first stop: East City Bookshop ([https://eastcitybookshop.com](https://eastcitybookshop.com)). From ECB we will head to our next stop, located on H Street: Solid State Books ([https://www.solidstatebooksdc.com](https://www.solidstatebooksdc.com)). Once we leave Solid State, we will head back towards Eastern Market, where there is a metro station that can take you back to Rosslyn (hike leader plans to do exactly this). \*\*\*Optional brunch stop at Mr. Henry’s prior to book store visits\*\*\* Mr. Henry’s menu can be seen here: [https://www.mrhenrysdc.com/menus/#brunch](https://www.mrhenrysdc.com/menus/#brunch) We hike at a pace of 2.5 to 3.0 mph while moving. Leader: Michele Douglas (703) 463-0597

**Lake Artemesia Walk – College Park** Join us for a relaxed, easy-paced walk around beautiful Lake Artemesia. A chance to unwind, enjoy nature, and connect with others in a calm, welcoming setting. We’ll walk the scenic loop, take in the lake views, and enjoy light conversation along the way. All fitness levels are welcome. **Main parking lot:** **55th Ave & Berwyn Rd** 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\.

# [Rails to River XC Mountain Bike Race](https://www.bikereg.com/rails-to-river-mountain-bike-race) ## Sun May 17, 2026Reston, VA Bike reg: https://www.bikereg.com/rails-to-river-mountain-bike-race

# [SGBP Jump Jam](https://www.bikereg.com/sgbp-jump-jam) ## Sun May 17, 2026Boyds, MD https://www.bikereg.com/sgbp-jump-jam

This coming Sunday promises to be like early summer, so dress accordingly and don't forget to bring bug spray and sunscreen. Starting from the Tenl;eytown Metro Station at noon, we’ll first walk down to the Glover-Archbold trailhead on Van Ness Street and head south along a dirt trail. After a few miles we’ll turn east on the Whitehaven Trail., which is surprisingly rough for a short stretch. We will stop for water and a bathroom break at the Trader Joe's on Wisconsin Avenue. Then we’ll continue through Dumbarton Oaks to the Rock Creek trail, where we'll head north. That's a dirt trail until Connecticut Avenue, where it will become an asphalt trail that will take us past the Zoo and eventually to Peirce Mill, scene of Saturday's annual Picnic. A short distance later we’ll head up the Soapstone Trail to Connecticut Avenue, which we'll take southward to our ending point at the Van Ness Metro. Nearby you can enjoy optional beers at the Dog Haus Biergarten Van Ness (website: [https://locations.doghaus.com/locations/dc/washington/4340-connecticut-avenue-nw-retail-space-5](https://locations.doghaus.com/locations/dc/washington/4340-connecticut-avenue-nw-retail-space-5)). Total length of this moderate to strenuous outing is about 8.5 miles. We meet at noon in front of the Panera on Wisconsin Avenue @ Ablemarle Street, near the eastern exit of the Tenleytown Metro Station. We should finish by 4:30 p.m. Bring plenty of water, snacks, bug spray, sunscreen, and the $5 Adventuring trip fee (cash or Venmo). Please [click here](https://adventuringlgbtq.com/Adventuring_Release_Form.pdf) to review our release form. When you RSVP to an event, you affirm that you have read and agree to the terms of the release.

# Sunday Morning Roll: Capitol Hill & Southwest Loop! 🛼 Oil those bearings and get ready for a scenic cruise through the heart of the District! This Sunday, **Big Mike** leads the **Washington Area Roadskaters** on a high-energy loop featuring some of DC’s most iconic skate-able terrain. From the historic greenery of **Stanton and Lincoln Parks** to the wide-open stretches of the **RFK Campus**, this route is packed with smooth pavement and great vibes. We’ll swing through the **Southwest Waterfront**, pass the stadiums, and cap it all off with a fast finish through the **12th Street Tunnel**—always a group favorite for that smooth, underground glide! *** ### 📍 Meeting Details * **WHERE:** Pershing Park (Corner of 14th St & Pennsylvania Ave NW). * **NOTE:** We are meeting here while Freedom Plaza is still under renovation! * **WHEN:** Sunday, May 17th * **MEET TIME:** 10:00 AM * **ROLL TIME:** 10:10 AM sharp! * **DISTANCE:** \~13 miles *** ### 🗺️ The Route **Route Map:** [https://onthegomap.com/s/dk1kq25o](https://onthegomap.com/s/dk1kq25o) * **Capitol Hill Classics:** We’ll roll through the beautiful neighborhoods and parks of the Hill. * **The RFK Stretch:** Plenty of room to open up the stride. * **Southwest Waterfront & Navy Yard:** Catch the river breeze as we skate past the Wharf and Nats Park. * **The 12th Street Tunnel:** We wrap things up with a run through this fan-favorite tunnel back to the Mall! *** ### ⚠️ Vital Info * **Skill Level:** This is a street skate. Skaters should be comfortable with urban obstacles, navigating traffic, and maintaining a steady pace. * **Safety First:** Helmets are strongly encouraged! Wrist guards and pads are always a smart move. * **Stay Hydrated:** Bring water and maybe a snack for the mid-point breather. Let’s make it a great roll! Tag your skate buddies and we'll see you at Pershing Park! 🏁 **#WAR #WashingtonAreaRoadskaters #WeAreSkateDC #DCSkate #InlineSkating #Rollerblading #SundaySkate #StreetSkating #DCFitness #ExploreDC** 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!

**\*TO ATTEND GET TICKET At** [https://www.socialevents123.com/event-details.aspx?id=13397#tix](https://www.socialevents123.com/event-details.aspx?id=13397#tix) (Multiple Meetup groups are co-organizing so the RSVP's shown are just a very small portion attending. We'll have at least 20 registered.) Our last online Bingo Night Party was such a BIG hit, we're doing it again! Do you like to play BINGO or want to just do something different?! Then you will LOVE this event! Here is your opportunity to have some fun playing our Live "Bingo" game. You will also get to socialize and make other friends from the comfort of your home. Prizes included Amazon gift cards, free future events and more! This completely online event will be LIVE and you will be able to see and hear the other participants while playing. You will either need to print or draw out your bingo cards. We will email you with how to get it after registering. You can have more than 1 person on your team as long as they're from your house and use same device. Friends/family around the country can also play. They would just need to also register for a ticket. This event will be held on Zoom which you would access through your computer/webcam, or via your phone/tablet. On day of the event, you will get a secured Zoom link and link to print out Bingo cards. \*RSVPS ON HERE ARE NOT REFLECTIVE OF ACTUAL ATTENDANCE as this is a multi group event. Cost: $15-$20 depending on how early you register. **\*TO ATTEND GET TICKET AT -** [https://www.socialevents123.com/event-details.aspx?id=13397#tix](https://www.socialevents123.com/event-details.aspx?id=13397#tix)

Join us on the potluck with fellow SCPRO leaders, followed by the presentation by Didi Bild from Beyond Plastics MoCoMD. The Spring general meeting will start following the conclusion of the presentation, **Cost:** Free, but we encourage everyone to become members of the Sierra Club, the nations largest environmental organization. **Bring:** If attending the potluck (noon to 1PM), please bring a food item to share and eating & drinking utensils to minimize waste. But if you're not able to bring these, come anyway. **Additional Directions:** If there is no one to greet you at the entrance, call 240-370-7011 or 703-946-8111. **Carpool:** There are no organized carpools, but the meeting location is within walking distance of the Union Station Metro station, or you may organize your own carpool. Note: Carpool transportation is at the sole risk of the participants.

**History** The history of [Blendon Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blendon-woods/) began long before its 1951 opening, rooted in a landscape of rugged ridges and deep ravines that made the land unsuitable for traditional farming. In 1945, a report proposing a metropolitan park system for Franklin County specifically highlighted these cliffs of Bedford Shale as some of the "wildest land in the vicinity". Following this recommendation, the recently formed park district purchased the first 229 acres in early 1949. Because the terrain was so uneven, developers had to cut a mile-and-a-half-long roadway through dense woods just to bring in heavy equipment. This initial preservation effort ensured that the mature second-growth hardwood forests remained largely untouched by the urban expansion spreading toward Westerville. Opening day arrived on Labor Day, September 3, 1951, marking Blendon Woods as the second park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The final push to open was a frantic race; the State Highway Department only finished the primary gravel access road four days before the gates opened. Early staff members, consisting of just four full-time employees, had to hand-dig pit toilets and learn construction skills on the fly to build the first picnic shelters. Despite the dusty conditions and limited facilities, the park was an immediate success, drawing massive crowds from across Central Ohio. By the end of the 1950s, annual visitation had already climbed to over 190,000 people. As the surrounding suburbs grew in the 1960s, the park faced severe overcrowding that threatened its natural habitats. In response, Franklin County voters passed the first Metro Parks levy in 1960, providing the funds necessary for a decade of steady expansion. During this era, the park nearly doubled in size, growing from 264 acres to over 570 acres by 1968. Planners also addressed a critical water shortage by collaborating with the U.S. Soil and Conservation Service to build a lake in 1964. This body of water originally served as a temporary reservoir before its role shifted toward conservation and wildlife support. The 1970s marked a transition toward the specialized wildlife and educational focus for which the park is known today. In 1971, the Walden Waterfowl Refuge was established around the 11-acre Thoreau Lake, creating a sanctuary that remains restricted to provide a quiet habitat for migratory birds. A formal nature center was also developed during this period, expanding on the guided Sunday walks that had been a park staple since the early 1950s. The park’s famous "Monarch Mansion" also became a prominent fixture, starting a long tradition of raising and releasing thousands of monarch butterflies each September. These initiatives cemented the park’s reputation as a premier destination for birders and nature enthusiasts. In more recent decades, Blendon Woods has continued to modernize while maintaining its wilderness character. The 10-acre Natural Play Area was added in 2017, encouraging kids to explore the ravines and woods off-trail. This was followed by the opening of a $1.5 million inclusive playground in April 2025, designed to accommodate children of all physical abilities. The nature center also underwent major renovations to include immersive, three-dimensional exhibits and a new butterfly house. Today, the park encompasses 653 acres, preserving a unique geologic and biological corridor amidst the bustling Westerville and Northeast Columbus area. **Map of the Park** Here is a map of [Blendon Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/BLN_map_Inclusive-Playground-and-Butterfly-Trail_May-2025_1980px.png). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Lake View, Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook, Brookside, and Sugarbush Trails. This sounds like a lot, but it will really be only a little over five miles. Blendon Woods has a few hills here and there, but it's not one of the more strenuous metro parks. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet just in front of the Nature Center. This is about a mile into the park from the main entrance. You have to go past the Ranger Station and the Shadblow Reservable Area to get to it, so don't stop too early at the Ranger Station and get it confused with the Nature Center. **After the Hike** Afterward, we will head over to [Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/) at Easton for [drinks](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/#dinner-menu) and [food](https://forbiddenroot.com/wp-content/uploads/Cbus-Food.pdf). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks. The brewery's actual address is [4080 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4080+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88388a86d10b6619:0x4d42b470a5cf11d3?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111); however, I recommend pointing your GPS to the [Worth Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Worth+Garage/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388b4df6082825:0x17582f0eccd9dda1!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11rzfvvv8b?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) across the street. Parking in this garage is free as long as you're not on the first floor, and it is literally right next to the brewery.

Hosted by Licking County Parks Registration opens at 9am on April 9th. Ladies are you ready? It's back! Every other year we hold the Women's Outdoor Skills Workshop! The day is a chance for women to relax, enjoy exploring new skills in a welcoming environment, and make new connections! Session topics this year include: archery, kayak, stand up paddleboard, outdoor cooking, firemaking, knot tying, foraging, forest bathing, orienteering, nature photography, nature journaling, intro to disc golf, yoga, Tai Chi, birding, intro to backpacking, and more! Lunch is provided. Fee: $75 * Event Address: James Bradley Center, Infirmary Mound Park, 4309 Lancaster Rd, Granville, OH 43023 * Ages 16+. Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. * Cancellation: Cancellation deadline is May 20, 2026. Cancellations before this date will receive a refund. There will be 4 sessions: three 1.5 hour sessions throughout the day (9am-10:30am, 10:50am-12:20pm, 1:30pm - 3pm) followed by the final 1 hour wellness short session (3:20pm - 4:20pm). Each session will have 6 or more classes to choose from. PLEASE NOTE YOU MUST FILL OUT THE GOOGLE FORM TO BE FULLY REGISTERED - The link will be in your receipt email. It determines your sessions. Sessions assigned FIRST COME, FIRST SERVE. Register and pay here: [https://www.lickingparkdistrict.com/271/June-2026](https://www.lickingparkdistrict.com/271/June-2026)

## Candle Making Night at The Arcane Foundry \| Design Your Own Custom Candle **SPECIAL PROMOTION**: Buy 3 and get 1 Free! Step into The Arcane Foundry and create your own custom candle from start to finish. This is a laid back, hands-on experience where **you’ll blend fragrances, choose your vessel, and pour your own candle using 100% soy wax**. Whether you’re coming solo or with friends, it’s designed to be simple, creative, and a good time. We’ll walk you through the entire process, from picking your scents to choosing between a traditional cotton wick or a crackling wood wick. You can go with one fragrance or mix your own blend to create something completely unique**. No experience needed**, just show up and we’ll handle the rest. While your candle sets, feel free to hang out, play a game, explore the shop, or just relax and talk. Drinks and snacks are available, and the atmosphere leans into the **fantasy**, **dark academia**, and **gothic horror** vibe The Arcane Foundry is known for. Learn More: [Candle Making in Columbus, Ohio at The Arcane Foundry](https://thearcanefoundry.com/candle-making/) *** ### What to Expect: * Guided candle making experience * Choose your own vessel, wax, wick, and fragrance * 100% soy wax candles * Optional drinks and snacks * Time to relax while your candle cools *** ### Important Notes: * Please arrive on time so we can start together * Candles will need time to set before taking home * This is a beginner-friendly event *** ### RSVP Required Reserve your spot on Meetup to lock in your seat. **Candle Making** (includes vessel, your choice of wick, wax, scented oil, labels and lids) 5oz Glass Jars $15 8oz Candle Tins $25 12oz Glass Candles $35 12oz Amber Jars $40 16 oz Skull or Jack o Lantern Candle Mugs $65 (Limited Edition!) **All materials included. You just bring yourself (and your drink of choice).** **Payments accepted:** * Credit Card * Venmo: @Daclaud-Lee * Cashapp: $DaclaudL

Come join our welcoming, low-pressure environment where you can practice performing, build confidence, stay motivated, and connect with others who play piano. Each session is intentionally structured and hosted to ensure everyone has time to play (if they choose), feel supported, socialize, and enjoy the experience. It’s not a class, but a thoughtfully guided space to help you stay consistent and make meaningful progress. **Details:** * Gatherings take place in a private home setting in the Northwest Columbus area (location to be shared after RSVPing) * Small group (max 7–8 participants) to keep the sessions personal and ensure everyone has time to play * Light snacks and refreshments provided * Small fee to support hosting and keep the group high quality and motivated