About us
We're a friendly, inclusive hiking group. Most of our hikes are in Central Maryland, within 20 minutes of I-695. We have hikes for beginners, which are around 4 miles, and easy terrain. We also have weekly hikes that are moderate or strenuous for more experienced hikers. The hikes will be labeled as "easy" (mainly flat, walking), "moderate" (a mix of some hills and flat trail) or "strenuous/difficult" (steep hills or rock scrambling).
Other activities might be camping, kayaking, sailing, climbing, and winter activities like bowling, dancing...any suggestions??
To request membership, in your primary Meetup profile you will need to use your actual name including last name or initial, and post a recognizable headshot photo. Please make needed changes to your Meetup profile before applying! Thanks, Tim
Upcoming events
3
Pole Steeple Hike - Michaux State Forest PA - 7+ mi/1300 ft - Moderate+
Pole steeple trail parking lot, Newville, PA, USThis is a fun one! Pole Steeple, a white and maroon-colored quartzite rock outcropping in Michaux State Forest, PA, offers panoramic, breathtaking views of Laurel Lake and the surrounding valley from nearly 500 feet above.
* NEW STARTING POINT * We'll meet at the Pole Steeple Trail Parking Lot at Laurel Lake (40.038323, -77.269626). We'll start with a steep and steady incline to Pole Steeple overlook, where we'll be rewarded with great views! This figure 8 loop hike partially follows the AT. More information soon once I’ve had a chance to properly scout this trail!
About 7 miles and 1,300 ft of elevation gain, at an average pace of 2.7 mph.
This hike is on the strenuous side of moderate. Please note that this is not a beginner hike due to distance, elevation gain, and pace. Please let me know if you have any questions.
This summit is part of South Mountain, the northernmost reach of the Blue Ridge Mountains, shaped by the collision of North America and Africa that assembled the supercontinent Pangaea, roughly 300 million years ago.
Optional drinks/lunch afterwards at one of two places:
OPTION 1: Big Hill Ciderworks (338 Georgetown Rd, Gardners, PA 17324), about 15 mins from the trailhead. They have wood-fired pizza, and “pour 10 rotating ciders on tap, along with a couple of local Pennsylvania beers.”
OPTION 2: Thirsty Farmer Brew Works (290 Cashtown Rd, Biglerville, PA 17307), just under 30 mins for the trailhead. They have a wide variety of beers on tap, and a great menu.DETAILS (please read carefully)
- Time: 9:30 am at the Pole Steeple Trail Parking Lot. Please plan to arrive a few minutes early - the parking lot may fill up quickly on the weekends.
- Very important: Please bring at least 2.5 liters (85 oz) of water, and a snack for energy.
- We will hike about 7 miles with about 1,300 ft of total elevation gain and an average pace of 2.7 mph.
- Dogs: If you'd like to bring a dog, please mention it in the comments. Only one dog/dog family per hike, please. Dogs are welcome outdoors at both Big Hill Ciderworks and Thirsty Farmer Brew Works.
- If bad weather or trail conditions require canceling or rescheduling, I’ll post an update the evening before.
IMPORTANT
Please remember that you are responsible for your own safety. Hiking is an inherently risky outdoor activity, and while every reasonable precaution is taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, each participant is ultimately responsible for their own well-being. Please come prepared with adequate water, appropriate footwear, and any necessary medications. If you have any questions or concerns about whether this outing is right for you, please don't hesitate to reach out beforehand. Please note that your hike leaders are volunteers and are not professionally trained guides.10 attendees
Past events
1553
Group links
Members
2,810
