About us
Welcome to Take a Hike! (DMV) – a friendly and inclusive group for anyone who loves exploring the outdoors in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia area! Whether you’re an experienced hiker or simply looking to spend more time in nature, this group is for everyone interested in discovering new trails and meeting new people.
We organize hikes across the DMV area, focusing on scenic and accessible trails within an easy drive of DC. Each outing is a social experience where you can enjoy great conversations, make new friends, and connect with a diverse community of outdoor enthusiasts. Some hikes may be more challenging than others, but each one promises adventure, camaraderie, and the assurance that we don’t leave anyone behind.
After the hike, join us for an optional social get-together for lunch at a local spot nearby! It’s a great chance to unwind, share stories from the hike, and build friendships over good food and relaxed conversation.
Lace up your boots, bring a sense of adventure, and come Take a Hike! with us!
Upcoming events
3
Take a Hike! @ Ball's Bluff
Balls Bluff Battlefield Regional Park, Ball's Bluff Road, Leesburg, VA, USMeet new friends and enjoy a medium/low difficulty hike at Ball’s Bluff Regional Park! This hike focuses on good conversation and fresh air as we hike through wooded trails, with scenic views of the Potomac River. It’s a perfect way to connect with others who love the outdoors and take in the natural beauty of Leesburg during this 3-hour hike.
Ball’s Bluff Regional Park is a hidden gem rich in history and natural beauty. The park features winding forest trails, scenic river views, and quiet spots perfect for taking a break or chatting with fellow hikers. Once the site of a Civil War battle, it’s now a serene place to enjoy nature and experience a peaceful escape just minutes from downtown Leesburg.
Meeting Time & Location: 9:30 AM at the Ball's Bluff Regional Park Parking Lot.
Distance: 5.34 miles (approximately)
Elevation Gain: 643 feet
Difficulty: Moderate Hike
This hike features natural trails with moderate difficulty, including some elevation gains. We recommend wearing sturdy hiking shoes to navigate this terrain comfortably.
Estimated Duration: 3 hours.Waitlist Policy
To keep things fair, hikers will be moved off the waitlist in this order:
1. Regular Hikers: Those who join hikes often get first priority.
2. Past Hikers: Next are returning hikers, based on attendance and cancellation history. Frequent cancellations may lower priority.
3. New Hikers: New members will be added as space allows.Age Requirement: Children under 18 are not permitted to ensure a comfortable experience for all participants. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
Pace: Moderate. We'll walk 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.
Trail Map: Ball's Bluff - 5.34mi loop
Restrooms: Restrooms are not available on this hike.
Lunch After the Hike: After we wrap up our hike, we invite you to join us for a relaxed lunch together. We'll meet for a casual lunch at Vanish Farmwoods Brewery, 42245 Black Hops Lane
Leesburg, VA 2017656 attendees
Take a Hike! @ Turkey Run
Turkey Run Lot C-1, Turkey Run Loop, McLean, VA, USNOTE: 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) 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
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.50 attendees
Past events
83
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Members
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