Ice Climbing

**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)

**\*\*\*WEATHER DEPENDENT, CHECK HERE on FRIDAY NIGHT TO MAKE SURE EVENT IS NOT RESCHEDULED\*\*\*** **Tired of dating apps and craving a real human interaction when conversation doesn't end abruptly?** *Join us for a scenic hike around Burke Lake.* *Safe, fun, facilitated space to not only enjoy nature together, but also have deeper real conversations based on ice-breakers provided to go beyond small talk and allow a chance for a real connection❤️* **❗[Please REGISTER for the hike HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1986141455559?aff=oddtdtcreator)** **READ ALL DETAILS BELOW ⬇️⬇️⬇️ SEE PHOTO INSTRUCTIONS** Meet & Greet (social warmup) at 11:00 am Hike starts at 11:20 am sharp. Don't be late, plan accordingly! Especially, if you are unfamiliar with the area. **Put into GPS:** *Burke Lake Park Ice Cream Parlor* (don't use Meetup app GPS, it may take you to wrong location). **Parking**: Large parking lot in front of Ice Cream Parlor. **❗Donation to cover the cost of permits**: Please bring $5-$10 cash or Venmo @Irena-Polyakova (1469) or Zelle (571-315-1469). **❗Park Entry Fee $12 Cash for Non-residents of Fairfax County.** It is Free for Fairfax Country residents, have your license out ready to show proof at the checkpoint. There may not be anyone at the checkpoint to collect, just drive through. **❗MEETING POINT (SEE EVENT PHOTOS):** In front of Ice-cream Parlor. We wait till 11:20 am and then we start walking. **Trail entrance- SEE EVENT PHOTOS- (if you are late and need to catch up):** Enter the trail about 100 meters to the left if you are facing the Ice Cream parlor. Once on the trail, turn left, lake should be on your right. * All age groups * Hike is hosted by a [life & relationship coach](https://lovedandfulfilled.com/) and structured to encourage maximum of connections made. * Conversation icebreakers are provided to everyone to make starting a conversation easier & get out of the small talk. * This is a hike for singles. **Time:** 11:00 AM (Be on time) **Distance**: 4.7-mile loop, it will take about 1.45-2 hours, we will make a few stops. **Level**: Easy/relaxed pace. Shaded path under the trees. **What to bring**: Water. **Dogs are welcome! 🐶** [RSVP for hike HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1986141455559?aff=oddtdtcreator) \*Event is weather dependent and could be rescheduled/cancelled\* **When you sign up to this event you are agreeing to**: *I release, indemnify, and hold harmless, Irena Polyakova, and all participants of the event, from any and all claims, demands, losses, and liability arising out of or related to any loss, injury, disability, I may suffer, to person or property, to the fullest extent permitted by law.* *Photos will be taken through out the event, if you don't want to be in them, notify the host ahead of time.*

This is one of my fav hikes that combines very scenic valley and river views. We'll start with the Gold Mine trail which runs along the bluff above Great Falls. We'll then hike the Billy Goat A trail, which is one of the most scenic hikes in Maryland. A large part of this hike is scrambling over boulders and rock faces. It is a challenging hike that has very scenic views of the river. The total distance will be 6 miles with about 500 feet of elevation gain. We'll hike at a slightly faster pace, and it should take about 3.5 hours. This hike is not for beginners. Please only RSVP if you hike or walk at least 6 miles per week at a faster pace. If you can't keep up, we will leave you behind, so it's your responsibility to know the route and how to get home on your own if you have to. After the hike, we might go grab a bite at Fish Taco, 7945 Macarthur Blvd, Cabin John, MD 20818 Parking: \-\- The closest place to park is in one of the small lots on the left side of MacArthur Blvd directly across the street from Old Anglers Inn\. But these lots are often full\. \-\- The best place to park is on the street on Stable Lane\. Stable Lane is just past Old Anglers Inn on the right\. \-\- You will also see a lot of cars parked on MacArthur Blvd even though there are "No Parking" signs\. I've never seen anyone towed or ticketed for parking on MacArthur Blvd\, but you're on your own there\. Note that this event is cross posted with the Fast and Fun Hikers meetup group. Hope you can join us! \*\*\* 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](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Z39AGebAVz9c-3S4zf3tj4Eb7V9k3PrH/view)) (revision 12/1/22). PLEASE READ THIS AGREEMENT CAREFULLY BEFORE RSVP'ING.

❗WEATHER DEPENDENT. CHECK IN HERE FRIDAY NIGHT TO ENSURE EVENT IS NOT RESCHEDULED **Tired of dating apps and craving a real human interaction when conversation doesn't end abruptly?** *Join us for a scenic hike around Burke Lake.* *Safe, fun, facilitated space to not only enjoy nature together, but also have deeper real conversations based on ice-breakers provided to go beyond small talk and allow a chance for a real connection❤️* **❗[Please REGISTER for the hike HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1986141455559?aff=oddtdtcreator)** **READ ALL DETAILS BELOW ⬇️⬇️⬇️ SEE PHOTO INSTRUCTIONS** Meet & Greet (social warmup) at 11:00 am Hike starts at 11:20 am sharp. Don't be late, plan accordingly! Especially, if you are unfamiliar with the area. **Put into GPS:** *Burke Lake Park Ice Cream Parlor* (don't use Meetup app GPS, it may take you to wrong location). **Parking**: Large parking lot in front of Ice Cream Parlor. **❗Donation to cover the cost of permits**: Please bring $5-$10 cash or Venmo @Irena-Polyakova (1469) or Zelle (571-315-1469). **❗Park Entry Fee $12 Cash for Non-residents of Fairfax County.** It is Free for Fairfax Country residents, have your license out ready to show proof at the checkpoint. There may not be anyone at the checkpoint to collect, just drive through. **❗MEETING POINT (SEE EVENT PHOTOS):** In front of Ice-cream Parlor. We wait till 11:20 am and then we start walking. **Trail entrance- SEE EVENT PHOTOS- (if you are late and need to catch up):** Enter the trail about 100 meters to the left if you are facing the Ice Cream parlor. Once on the trail, turn left, lake should be on your right. * All age groups * Hike is hosted by a [life & relationship coach](https://lovedandfulfilled.com/) and structured to encourage maximum of connections made. * Conversation icebreakers are provided to everyone to make starting a conversation easier & get out of the small talk. * This is a hike for singles. **Time:** 11:00 AM (Be on time) **Distance**: 4.7-mile loop, it will take about 1.45-2 hours, we will make a few stops. **Level**: Easy/relaxed pace. Shaded path under the trees. **What to bring**: Water. **Dogs are welcome! 🐶** [RSVP for hike HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1986141455559?aff=oddtdtcreator) \*Event is weather dependent and could be rescheduled/cancelled\* **When you sign up to this event you are agreeing to**: *I release, indemnify, and hold harmless, Irena Polyakova, and all participants of the event, from any and all claims, demands, losses, and liability arising out of or related to any loss, injury, disability, I may suffer, to person or property, to the fullest extent permitted by law.* *Photos will be taken through out the event, if you don't want to be in them, notify the host ahead of time.*

**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)**

Please bring your own archery equipment if you have it. I do have a limited amount of beginner-friendly equipment available (enough for about 3 people), but it is first come, first serve. Feel free to bring snacks, drinks, and good vibes—we’re here to have fun, be social, and enjoy the experience together ✨

## 🛼 Sunday City Skate: Potomac Loops & Kalorama Heights Since **Freedom Plaza** is still closed for construction, we are shifting our starting point slightly to the **WWI Memorial**! This 12-mile intermediate loop is a classic D.C. tour, hitting scenic bridges, urban climbs, and historic neighborhoods. *** ### 🕒 THE SCHEDULE * **10:00 AM:** Meet at the **WWI Memorial** (Pershing Park, 14th & Pennsylvania Ave NW). * **10:10 AM:** Rollout sharp! ### 📍 THE ROUTE (12.1 Miles) This intermediate-level route offers a mix of scenic views and urban challenges: * **Downtown & Georgetown:** Warming up through the city. * **The Bridges:** Cross the **Key Bridge** into Rosslyn and return via the **Roosevelt Bridge** past the Kennedy Center. * **The Climb:** Push through the hills of **Adams Morgan** and the beautiful embassy-lined streets of **Kalorama**. * **The Finish:** A smooth descent back through Georgetown to wrap things up where we started. **Route Map:** https://onthegomap.com/s/b79a2mqf *** ### 🎒 WHAT TO BRING * **HELMETS ARE REQUIRED** for all Washington Area Roadskaters events. * Wrist guards, knee pads, and elbow pads are strongly recommended. * Water and a way to carry your shoes (skate leash or backpack). * Ensure your hardware (axles and bolts) is tightened before arrival. ### ⚠️ SKILL LEVEL **Intermediate:** You should be confident maintaining a steady pace of 10-12 mph, navigating city traffic, managing moderate hills/descents, and performing reliable stops in various conditions. *** *Washington Area Roadskaters is a community of skaters dedicated to promoting safe and fun skating in the D.C. metro area. Join us for the roll!* 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!

As a reminder, since Freedom Plaza is under construction, we will meet at the plaza in front of The International Trade Center near the National Children's Museum (on Pennsylvania Ave). We'll begin with going over a few drills (varies week to week). The skills we drill will be for the first 30 minutes. For the second half, we will casually skate down the bike lanes on Pennsylvania Avenue from the plaza to the U.S.Capitol and stop at 3rd St. and then skate back the same route. This route is about 2 miles in total and is perfect for those who are new to skating in the city but feel comfortable on skates in a parking lot or roller rink. This is also great if you wish to start with shorter routes to increase your physical fitness or stamina for some of the other routes. This is an excellent opportunity to prepare to skate with others on the road. You will also get to meet skaters who will arrive for the Intermediate and Advanced skate routes following the introductory skate. This is great training to feel prepared for the Tuesday Night and Friday Night Skate! Route: [http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=7653831](http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=7653831) Inline skates (rollerblades), roller skates (quads), bicycles, unicycles, skateboards, longboards and other similar modes of transportation are welcome to join. Helmet and pads are required. Skate at your own risk. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the session

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\.

**🚴🏾‍♂️ DCC Boundary Ride** **Ride the Line.** **We’re taking on the full DC boundary — this is a serious ride built for riders ready to put in real work.** **⚠️ This is NOT a beginner ride.** **Expect 50+ miles and 2000+ feet of elevation.** **This is not a race. We’ll keep a steady group pace and regroup after climbs, making sure we roll together as a unit.** **📍 Important:** **• The route will be posted prior to the ride — make sure you have it** **• This is a big city ride — expect traffic lights, road hazards, and interruptions** **⏱️ Plan for approximately 3+ hours to complete the ride** **💧 Bring your own fuel & hydration** **👊🏾 Come ready to work, ride smart, and respect the group** **Route links** **Strava:** **https://www.strava.com/routes/3480640403677347614** **RideGps** **https://ridewithgps.com/routes/54712897**

Short North Street Skates return Saturday, April 4 and we’re excited to get back rolling together. These weekly rollouts are a chance to move through the city as a group, build community, and create more visibility for skating and small-wheeled movement in Columbus. Details: Meet: 1160 N High St 9:30 AM meet 10:00 AM rollout All wheels welcome We’ll be skating through the Short North and surrounding areas at a steady, social pace. Routes will use a mix of streets and bike lanes, so comfort navigating the city is helpful, but you don’t need to be an expert. If you’ve been meaning to come out, this is a great place to start. Come solo or bring a friend!

**✨ Cleveland Speed Dating – Personality Matched & Hosted on Zoom** This online speed dating event is built around a host who sets the tone, keeps things easy, and helps people feel comfortable from the first minute. Speed dating from home — connect with real Cleveland singles on Zoom. We match you with compatible Cleveland locals using a quick personality quiz. You'll chat one-on-one on Zoom in short timed rounds while a host guides the session. **Pick your age group and sign up:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=18-32&face_v=1.0) - 💡 **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=30-46&face_v=1.0) - 🚀 **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=40-58&face_v=1.0) **⚠️ Your RSVP doesn't guarantee a place.** Click your age group link below, register, and take the personality quiz to lock in your spot. Limited places. --- 🎯 **Especially useful for:** - Anyone curious about speed dating in a relaxed setting - ⚡ Singles in Cleveland who want to meet people from home - 🎯 People fed up with swiping who want actual conversation 🧭 **How the session runs** 1. **Pick your age group** – Register through your link above. 2. **Complete the quiz** – Short personality quiz so we can match you well. 3. **Hop on Zoom** – Join the call and your host will walk you through it. 4. **Chat** – Quick timed rounds with Cleveland singles paired to you. 📍 **Event snapshot** - **Format:** Hosted on Zoom – one-on-one video dates - **Location:** Online from home – no need to go anywhere - **Host:** Live host handling rounds and introductions 💡 **Tip:** Check your Zoom setup and pick a quiet, well-lit spot ahead of time. **Frequently Asked Questions** **What happens after?** Mutual matches are sent out after the event. **Do I need experience?** **What if I'm shy?** --- ✨ Meet Cleveland singles from home. Sign up and we'll take care of the rest. 💝 ✨ Quick version: this one gets straight to the point. Concise by design so people can decide quickly. 🤝 **Community angle** - Repeat attendees help create familiarity and momentum - The atmosphere is guided, social, and easy to join - The community matters as much as the session itself We are building this around repeat faces, good energy, and a community that grows event by event.