Outdoors

You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, **[https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf](https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf)** and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "**I accept**" to be permitted on the hike. Join us for an approximately **7 mile hike** around **[Hains Point](https://www.nps.gov/places/000/east-potomac-park-hains-point.htm)** along the **[Tidal Basin](https://www.nps.gov/subjects/cherryblossom/trail-guides.htm) and over the [Memorial Bridge](https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/planyourvisit/memorialave.htm).** There is **no elevation** to speak of. Most of the hike is on **pavement.** **Description** The **[2026 National Cherry Blossom Festival](https://nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/)** in Washington, D.C. runs from **March 20** to **April 12** with **peak bloom** predicted between **March 29** and **April 5, 2026.** **[Hains Point](https://www.nps.gov/places/000/east-potomac-park-hains-point.htm)**, located at the **southern tip** of **[East Potomac Park](https://www.nps.gov/places/000/east-potomac-park-hains-point.htm)**, is a popular spot to see **Cherry Blossoms**, offering a **less crowded alternative** to the **Tidal Basin.** **It offers** a **4-mile loop trail** ideal for **walking** (and biking), is lined with **cherry trees** and as the point of **convergence** of the **Potomac River**, **Washington Channel** and **Anacostia River**, it provides a **panoramic view** of the area. Emerging from the **Haines point**, we will head along the **Tidal Basin** towards **Memorial Bridge** and then back to the **Marina.** **Facilities:** Columbia Island Marina and at Hains Point. **Where to meet?** We will begin at **[Columbia Island Marina](https://boatingindc.com/columbia-island-marina/)** (Lady Byrd Johnson Park, GW Parkway, Arlington, VA; Note that the only entrance to the Marina is from the **GW Parkway Southbound.** GPS Coordinates: **[38.876366, -77.049883](https://maps.app.goo.gl/z4K5XxsS8KHsyF1A9)** **Arrival Time: Please arrive by 9 am so that we can get all checked in and leave on time at 9:30 am.** **What to bring?** **Bring:** Be sure and wear sturdy walking shoes; dress in layers; and have adequate hydration. We will stop for lunch/snack along the way. **Hiking Pace:** We will hike at a pace of 2.5-2.7 mph while moving. **You must have experience with hikes of this distance and pace.** **Elevation Gain**: N/A **Dogs** are **not** permitted on this hike in accordance with the **[NVHC Dog Policy](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1cCe0_KteiZM6qiZMi1PZlgWBf_NBCFD0/view)** **Weather:** the weather for this location can be found **[HERE](https://weather.com/weather/today/l/c4025fdf0177c872b7fc2e0d09e7c523995ef49e21145e2d2438fe08649ca9e8).** **Rehydration:** It might be fun to have a snack at **Island Time Bar/Grill** on the water at Columbia Island Marina upon completion of our hike **Leader:** Dawn Keeler 703 533 9231. I will be in a Honda Hatchback, with the hatchback open.

Join us as we do an invigorating outdoor walk and talk in Historic Greenbelt MD. Our goal is to walk twice around the 1.4 mile path. Should take about an hour. Afterward, those of us interested will head to nearby Cedars of Lebanon restaurant for lunch and conversation. The address for GPS is Buddy Attic Lake Park. 555 Crescent Rd. Greenbelt, MD. Meet us in the parking lot. Thank you! .....Ross A.

PLEASE RSVP FOLLOWING THIS LINK: [REGISTER](https://whitleyparksportsclub.playbycourt.com/programs/adult-spark-co-ed-copy-b36af4) Your spot won't be secured until you've booked your spot on the link above. #### **LEVEL:** Beginners (co-ed) Ready to build on the basics? Adult Spark is the perfect place to start. Whether you are just picking up a racquet or brushing off the rust, this co-ed program is all about learning proper technique, gaining confidence, and having a blast on court with others at a similar beginner level. Expect fast improvement, lots of movement, and a great workout — all in a supportive, fun environment. #### **SEASON (15 WEEKS)**: March 7 to June 13, 2026 * 8 weeks INDOORS (March 2 to April 26) * 7 weeks OUTDOORS (April 27 to June 14) **DAYS & TIMES:** * **Mondays:** 11am-12:30pm * **Tuesdays**: 1-2:30pm * **Thursdays**: 7-8am * **Fridays:** 10:30am-12pm * **Fridays:** 8:30-9:30pm * **Saturdays:** 10-11:30am #### **LOCATION**: Whitley Park Sports Club **[Address](https://www.google.com/search?sa=X&biw=1366&bih=657&q=the+beach+tennis+%26+pool+%40+east+gate+potomac+address&ludocid=14802468310463342416&ved=2ahUKEwjuyejfgcX8AhWJLFkFHTl-Cv0Q6BN6BAhkEAI):** 5450 Whitley Park Terrace, Bethesda, MD 20814

Let's take a walk through various parts of Capitol Hill, including the Marine Barracks and numerous public parks! **Route:** * Start at Eastern Market Metro Station * Walk along South Carolina Ave. to Garfield Park * Walk to G street till the Marine Barracks * Walk around the barracks and head towards Potomac Ave. Station * From Potomac Ave., walk up 15th street, towards C street * Follow C street to Kentucky Ave., follow Kentucky to Lincoln Park * Walk around Lincoln Park, and north on Tennessee Ave. to D street. * From D street, follow Maryland Ave. to Stanton Park * From Stanton Park walk up 4th and 3rd street till we get to NoMa * Finish at NoMa Metro Station **Millage:** 5.2 mi **Start Location:** Eastern Market Metro (meet in Market Park) [https://maps.app.goo.gl/gcZ7tXJS2Xjhefbb7](https://maps.app.goo.gl/gcZ7tXJS2Xjhefbb7) **End Location:** NoMa Metro Station **Time:** 6PM-8PM **Terrain:** This will be mostly flat, on paved or gravel ground \-\-\- We try to be punctual with our event times so please be respectful to others and show up a few minutes early, because we will leave without you. Note, we often limit the RSVPs to keep group sizes manageable. If you are on the waitlist but would really like to join, reach out to the organizer. We're always looking for new leaders who can showcase their neighborhood or any cool places they know, so please reach out either at an event or on meetup if you are interested. If you've enjoyed our walks please consider donating a few bucks to help us keep this group running (meetup is expensive!). [Donation Link](https://venmo.com/code?user_id=2158403661070336114) (Confirmation code- 0802)

Free Full Body workout! We offer body weight, heavyweights, cardio/ Hitt/ Boxing and personal training. Nutrition plans health & wellness coaching as well. For more information and to redeem your free trial class and fitness analysis, contact Coach L at 365dmvfitnesstraining@gmail.com or (301) 747-3622.

Humpback Rocks is one of the most scenic views on the AT in Virginia. Let's combine it with a hike up Dobie Mountain for a moderate loop. ## **Trail Facts** * **Difficulty Level: Moderate** * **Length:** 7.7 Miles * **Duration:** 4-5 hrs * **Elevation Gain:** 1,745 Feet * **Permits:** None * **Meeting Location**: Vienna Metro Station​ South * **Parking Location:** Humpbacks Rocks Visitor Center * **Meeting Time**: 8:00 AM​ * **Driving Time**: Approximately 2.5 hr * **Dogs:** Allowed (with caution - small scrambles) * **Trailhead Coordinates:** 37.968461, -78.896603 * **AllTrails Map**: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/humpback-rocks-and-dobbie-mountain **CARPOOL:** If you need a ride or can offer one, please coordinate in the event comments. Be a friend to the environment, save money, and make friends. **Trail Details:** Humpback Rocks is an extremely popular section of the AT for good reason - the 360-degree summit views of the George Washington National Forest are stunning. Glass Hollow Overlook views are also impressive, and may still have the remnants of a plane crash from years ago. We will meet at Vienna Metro at 8AM and carpool to the trailhead. Drive time is about 2 hour and 30 mins. For drivers - Note that trailhead parking is limited, so we may need to park at the Humpback Rocks Visitor Center that is about 0.2 miles from the trailhead. Once at the trailhead, we will follow the trail counter-clockwise, first making a steep climb up to Humpback Rocks. After enjoying the view, we will follow the AT to the Glass Hollow Overlook to enjoy another view and look for plane crash remnants. Finally, we will turn off of the AT on the the Jack Albright Loop trail and finish the hike with a modest climb up Dobie Mountain. Make sure to bring water and snacks. Dogs are allowed on this trail. **LIABILITY NOTICE:** Please remember that this group operates under the common adventurer model. We are a group of friends and volunteers organizing trips for fun and shared experience. Participants are expected to be familiar with best hiking practices and choose hikes that align with their physical abilities and experience. Organizers and members are not liable for any injuries, loss, or damage to persons or property arising from group activities. By attending this event, you agree to assume all risks associated with the activity.​ For more information on the common adventurer model, please see [Ron Watters' definition](https://www.ronwatters.com/CADefine.htm).​ If you believe you may be lost during the hike, follow the advice of the [US Forest Service](https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/know-before-you-go/if-you-get-lost). ​ See you on the trail!

Looking for a quick nature escape and good company? Join us for a scenic 4.4-mile hike in beautiful Rock Creek Park in Washington, D.C.. We’ll follow the Western Ridge and Valley Trails through peaceful forest paths, along Rock Creek, and past the historic Fort DeRussy. Expect a mix of wooded trails, creek views, and a few moderate climbs to keep things interesting. 🥾 Hike Details • Distance: \~4.4 miles • Difficulty: Moderate • Elevation Gain: \~492 ft • Estimated Time: 1.5–2 hours • Route Type: Loop 📍 Meeting Point Parking lot at the Rock Creek Park Nature Center & Planetarium. 📝 What to Bring • Comfortable hiking shoes (some sections are rocky and narrow) • Water, Snacks • Hiking pole (optional) 🚶‍♂️🚗 Parking: Free parking is available at the Nature Center. If the main lot is full, you can park at the Maintenance Yard farther down Glover Road—about a 5-minute walk away. Looking forward to another great day on the trails! 🌲🥾 ***Lunch afterwards at Mandalay Restaurant & Cafe (Must RSVP to that event to participate)***

Trailhead Hike &Wildflower Hike: Although we normally view the well-known bluebells at Bull Run Regional Park at this time of year, the bluebells of Broad Run are more abundant and the trails are much less crowded. Many other varieties of wildflowers can be seen along this surprising enclave south of Gainesville and west of Manassas, VA. Hikers will begin at the Benedictine Monastery public parking lot, visit the gardens, labyrinth, silos of peace, sisters and children's cemetery, over the old farm rubble/culvert bridge turning right on the paved riparian wetlands trail back to the trailhead structure. Long hikers will hike the loop behind Victory Lakes neighborhood back to the trailhead structure then towards Linton Hill Rd. (moderate and easy hike) after admiring a profusion of bluebells, hiker will pass under Linton Hall Rd. to Sudley Manor Dr. where more bluebells are in bloom. Hikers will cross the busy road (Warning: Look Both Ways!!!) to the west side of Broad Run, past the gated Dumbarton community, then cross the marine-grade bridge to the loop between Broad Run and Rocky Branch returning to the bridge. Hikers will proceed north past the Dunbarton clubhouse along Broad Run to the power lines then double back to Sudley Manor Dr. and carefully cross (look both ways!!!) to continue straight along the west side to the end (long & moderate) or at any point (easy) along the way. Hike back to Sudley Manor Dr., then turn a right a short distance on the hike & bike trail turning right at the east side Broad Run trailhead tracking the river downstream and under Linton Hall Rd. to just before the riparian wetlands bridge (do not cross bridge!). Take a left along the riparian wetlands behind the monastery until the spotting the gated Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto on the left. Visit the grotto, then proceed along the the traffic circle back to the public parking area and the end of the hike, Park map. Est.: 12.2 mi. (long), 10.5 mi (moderate), \~8.5 mi. (easy), <300 ft. elevation. Hike fee: $5. Trailhead meetup: St. Benedict Monastery (38°45'14.8"N 77°33'56.3"W) Public Parking Lot (traffic circle, 3rd rt., & follow sign toward gardens) 9535 Linton Hall Road, Bristow, VA Start time: 9:00 AM 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)

Brisk 3- to 4- mile urban hike starting and ending at the Brig. We will hike to Southwest, before circling back past Bartholdi Park and ending at the Brig for drinks and food. Closest Metro Eastern Market.

In Spring 1755, British Major General Edward Braddock, Commander-in-Chief of His Majesty's Forces in North America, convened a meeting of five colonial governors at the Carlyle House to secure funding for his upcoming campaign against the French. Alexandria co-founder John Carlyle, his host, called this gathering "the Grandest Congress … ever known on the Continent." NOVA Parks will be hosting a recreation of this event at the Carlyle House, featuring costumed interpreters and hands on activities. Let's go check it out, and retrace the route Braddock's Army took when they departed Alexandria at the campaign's start! ❶ **What we'll do:** * From the [Capital Bikeshare on Diagonal Road](https://maps.app.goo.gl/FimrXcE77TRGLtuy7) we'll walk north, following Hooff's Run and Russell Road to the Braddock Cannon at the intersection of Braddock and Russell roads. From there we will walk southeast along Braddock Road, roughly backtracking the route Braddock's army took in 1755 departing Alexandria en route to Fort Cumberland, Maryland. After crossing under the railroad tracks, we will proceed east along Oronoco Street to the Potomac, where we will walk south along the Potomac through Founder's Park for a break at the Torpedo Factory. After the break we will walk west a couple of blocks along Cameron Street to the Carlyle House, arriving at about noon. This ends the guided portion of the walk. * Visitors to the Carlyle House from 12:00 to 4:00 pm will experience Braddock's visit and the French and Indian War firsthand through costumed interpreters. Admission is free, but a $5 donation is suggested. See [https://tinyurl.com/mr3eczb9](https://tinyurl.com/mr3eczb9) for more details. * After checking out the Carlyle event for as long as desired, attendees can individually return to the meetup point by walking south to King Street, and then west along King and Diagonal Streets; a total of 1.1 miles. See [https://maps.app.goo.gl/bCjSKHvMUeXFu2sSA](https://maps.app.goo.gl/bCjSKHvMUeXFu2sSA) * The total walk, including the guided and individual portions, is about 4.5 miles and should take around 2 hours, plus however long attendees wish to spend at the Carlyle House. The surface is mostly paved throughout and fairly level. The is an easy hike. * Google map: [https://tinyurl.com/bdzxb5ec](https://tinyurl.com/bdzxb5ec) ❷ **How to get there:** * Metro: King Street Station is on the Blue and Yellow Lines. Current Metro status and alerts: [https://tinyurl.com/y7lklnl7](https://tinyurl.com/y7lklnl7) * Driving: From I-395, take VA-7 / King Street east about 2.8 miles. Take the first right after passing under the railroad (Daingerfield Street), and an immediate right onto Diagonal Road. From US-1 / Richmond Highway, follow King Street west 0.5 miles, take a sharp left onto Daingerfield, and the first right onto Diagonal Road. There is free and metered parallel parking in the area. ❸ **Weather:** The forecast is partly cloudy and a high of 81F, with 7-9 mph S winds and a 4-6% chance of showers. Updates: [https://tinyurl.com/yck2442z](https://tinyurl.com/yck2442z) ❹ **What to bring:** Water, comfy shoes, and your furry friend if desired (leashes, please). Sunscreen, cool shades, and the layered look are recommended. 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. ❻ **Administrative stuff:** There are restrooms at the Ramsay House, the Torpedo Factory, and at several commercial establishments along our route. We will make a dedicated pit stop at the Torpedo Factory just before arriving at the Carlyle House. ❼ **Notes:** * The "Grandest Congress": The French and Indian War in Alexandria, [https://www.va250.org/event-detail/?id=24416](https://www.va250.org/event-detail/?id=24416) * "The Grandest Congress": Gen. Braddock Meets the Governors, [https://tinyurl.com/3mst3vzp](https://tinyurl.com/3mst3vzp) * Eugene Scheel: "General Braddock's March Through Loudoun in 1755," [https://tinyurl.com/32j7put5](https://tinyurl.com/32j7put5) *Illustration: "The Wounding of General Braddock: Battle of the Monongahela 9 July 1755" [cropped], by Robert Griffing, The Westmoreland Museum, [https://tinyurl.com/yvrkrx8e](https://tinyurl.com/yvrkrx8e)*

[Old School Groove](https://www.facebook.com/OldSchoolGrooveBand/) \- Vintage rock\, southern rock\, blues\, reggae\. Originals mixed with 60s & 70s classics\. Getcha groove on\! **[Flint Station](https://www.theflintstation.com/)** is an old depot venue for drinks and live music. They usually have a **bbq food truck** on location. Feel free to bring your own takeout. I'll bring a basket of snacks. NO COVER *They're planning for a beautiful summer evening performance in the beer garden. However, if the weather doesn't cooperate...they will be upstairs in the old-time dance hall. Either way...it's going to be a night to remember!!* **PARKING**: either near the beer garden or across the street.

We will meet next to the restrooms at the [Big Meadows Picnic Area](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/HBK_Web_1980.png). They're all the way at the back of the park, and they can be found at coordinates [40°09'06.6"N 83°02'30.2"W](https://www.google.com/maps/place/40%C2%B009'06.6%22N+83%C2%B002'30.2%22W/@40.151828,-83.0423587,214m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m10!1m5!3m4!2zNDDCsDA5JzA4LjAiTiA4M8KwMDEnNDUuMSJX!8m2!3d40.1522222!4d-83.0291944!3m3!8m2!3d40.151827!4d-83.041715?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTIwNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) (near the playground and the zip line). We'll hike about 5 miles at [Highbanks Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/highbanks/) on the Dripping Rock and Overlook Trails. Afterward, we'll head over to [Olentangy River Brewing](https://www.olentangybrew.com/) for drinks, coffee, or food (their Sunday [food truck](https://www.olentangybrew.com/eventsandfood) is Venezuelan and always gets good reviews). The actual address of the brewery is [303 Green Meadows Dr S, 43035](https://www.google.com/maps/place/303+Green+Meadows+Dr+S,+Lewis+Center,+OH+43035/@40.1551938,-83.0144045,17.25z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x8838f395cef06c97:0xe407de61b3e30069!8m2!3d40.1551765!4d-83.0124352!16s%2Fg%2F11c26jc7j9?entry=ttu). If you can't make the hike, we should be there by noon. **How to find our starting point in Big Meadows:** If you are new to Highbanks, the Big Meadows picnic area is 1.5 miles into the park just after you turn into the park off of U.S. Route 23. That is, after you enter the park, drive a mile and a half into the park. You will come to a crosswalk with a yield sign in the middle of it (this is not to be confused with the first such crosswalk you come to just in front of the Nature Center, which you arrive at maybe a quarter of a mile into the park). Just after this second crosswalk, make a left. Then make another almost immediate left into the parking lot on your left. There you will see the jungle gym and the kiddie zip line to your left. I will be just in front of the restrooms just a bit further down from the jungle gym and picnic shelter; the restroom building will also be on your left.

Join us for a two mile trail hike alongside the Brookside Trail at Blendon Woods Metro Park. This trail is largely gravel and does include some hills and stairs. Hopefully we will see some wildlife while hike this scenic trail! Join us!