About us
THE CLUB www.nvhc.com
The Northern Virginia Hiking Club (NVHC) offers a range of hikes of various difficulty levels in Virginia, Maryland, DC, and beyond. The club also offers other outdoor events occasionally. NVHC members reflect the rich diversity of the Washington DC Metro area. Annual membership fee is $5. Guests are welcome and enjoy a month’s free participation in the club events. NVHC is a nonprofit organization and donates funds to local parks and trail maintenance organizations from time to time. The selection of the parks and organizations is based on club usage - it is our way of giving back. Monies vary each time - $7,200 was donated in 2023.
Members are required to accept the liability disclaimer by typing “Accept” in the fields presented when they join the club.
DIFFICULTY RATINGS
NVHC hikes are assigned difficulty ratings. A combination of linear distance and elevation gain is used to determine the rating, with 400 feet of elevation gain considered to be equivalent of 1 mile of linear distance. With the “miles” derived from elevation gain added to the linear distance, following are the ratings:
A+= Very Difficult (19 miles or more)
A = Difficult (13 miles or more, but less than 19 miles)
B = Moderately Difficult (10 miles or more, but less than 13 miles)
C = Moderate (7 miles or more, but less than 10 miles)
D = Easy (Less than 7 miles)
For example, a nine-mile hike with 1,000 feet of climbing would be rated B (9 + 2.5 = 11.5).
Elevation loss is not measured in this system. Also, the difficulty rating is separate from the pace of the hike, which is determined by the leader, and is usually specified in the individual hike descriptions.
RSVP ETIQUETTE
Often there are limits on the number of participants on NVHC events, set by our leaders. This creates wait lists on Meetup. If you find yourself in this situation, we request that you keep in mind the interest of the leaders and your fellow hikers, and follow the guidelines below:
- If you RSVP’d “yes” for a hike, change your RSVP to “no” as soon as you decide not to go, so that someone else can go.
- If you RSVP’d “yes” to overlapping events on the same day, decide on one as soon as possible, and change your RSVP to “no” for all others.
- If you are on a wait list and decide not to go, remove yourself from the list.
DOGS ON HIKES
Dogs are welcome on NVHC hikes at the discretion of the hike leader. Several restrictions apply including advance notification to the leader, dogs being well behaved, and their being kept on a six foot leash. See dog policy located at [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy] for details.
Upcoming events
38
Motts Run Reservoir Recreation Area (Rating: C)
Occoquan commuter lot, 1325 Old Bridge Rd, Woodbridge, VA 22192, USA, Woodbridge, VA, USDetails
You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer: 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.
This is an 8.1-mile hike with 738 feet of elevation gain.
The Motts Run Loop meanders through views of water and woodlands. Portions of the trail run alongside the reservoir. With Late-season autumn blooms, we might see Fall Asters. Hopefully, we will see the Black gum and red maple trees begin to show their vibrant colors. As we continue, the trail opens up into a fire road, characterized by a series of ups and downs. We'll encounter some rock gardens and root-filled sections. Bridges along the trail allow us to cross ravines safely. Throughout the loop, we'll be treated to beautiful views of the lake and surrounding meadows.
Hiking Pace: Pace will be about 2.5 mph while moving.
Leader: Schenell Agee 540.207.7128 (C)
Bathrooms and Porta Johns are available
and are a fairly short walk from the trail start.AllTrails Map https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/motts-run-loop-0346c89?u=i&sh=pcotzb
Motts-Run-Reservoir-Trail-Guide-PDFMeet at the trailhead parking lot 15 minutes early so everyone can sign in and get ready to hike at 9:00 am. The park is open Thursday – Monday, 7 am – 7 pm.
Trailhead Meeting Instructions: 6600 River Road Fredericksburg, VA 22407 (540) 786-8989 GPS Coordinates: 38.328085, -77.554509. https://maps.app.goo.gl/MBcDfH67pFZkVEJL7
Access to the park via River Rd. We will meet at the Motts Run entrance. Look for a Dark Brown Toyota Highlander.Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy
PETS - Pets are permitted at Motts run All dogs must be on a leash. Please clean up after your pet. Pets may not be left unattended at any time.Recommendations:
Insect repellent, snack/lunch, adequate hydration/2 liters of water. Some sections may require a bit of scrambling. I recommend sturdy hiking boots/shoes and poles if you normally use them.Post hike rehydration TBD
Any questions, please message me or call 540.207.7128. If you text me, please include your name.
Park Entrance Fee:
$0.00 | There is limited parking (15 vehicles) at the trailhead start. Additional parking is located down the hill, pass the car park once you enter the area.Carpool Parking:
Neither the Club nor the hike leaders are responsible for coordinating transportation to/from the trailhead. Hikers are not guaranteed to get a ride to the trailhead from the carpool location. Carpooling is organized by the participants, and they participate at their own risk.
Hikers will depart at 8:00 A.M. It's about a 45-minute to one hour drive from the Lake Ridge Commuter Lot to Mott's Run depending upon traffic. Suggested carpool fee is $5. Hike leader will meet the group at the trailhead.3 attendees
Trumbo Hollow Extended Plus (Rating: B, optional pickleball)
Centreville Park and Ride, 14700 Lee Highway, Centreville, VA, USREQUIRED: You must read the following information http://nvhc.com/CovidDocument.pdf and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "I accept" to be permitted on the hike.
This is a brisk B-level Friday morning workout. The hike is about 8.0 miles with 1700 feet elevation gain on AT. We will complete this 8-mile hike by 11am to leave sufficient time for the second part (optional) pickleball practice (more on that later). We hike at a pace of 3-3.5 mph when moving and faster on flatter terrain. This is considered a fast hike. You must be experienced in hikes of this distance, elevation gain and **speed. **
This hike is an extended version of the Trumbo Hollow hike. We will start from AT at Rt55, take the Trumbo Hollow trail, go pass Jim and Molly Dent shelter and continue until we are 4 miles in. From wherever the 4-mile point is, we will turn around. On the way back, approximately 5 miles into the hike, we will swing by the shelter.
Now on the second, optional, pickleball practice. After the hike to warm up the legs, those who are interested can join me for some (very) beginner pickleball practice in front royal. Just bring your paddle and ball. You can play for as long as you want.
Leader: Xiaobin 857-408-1070
The hike leader will meet at the trailhead at 8AM.For those wishing to carpool, the suggested carpool location is at the Centerville P&R. The driving time from there to the trailhead is about 45 minutes. Please arrive at the Park and Ride a few minutes before 7:15AM to form carpool so all cars can leave at 7:15AM.
Suggested carpool fee is $7.PLEASE NOTE: Neither the Club nor the hike leaders are responsible for coordinating transportation to/from the trailhead. Hikers are not guaranteed to get a ride to the trailhead from the carpool location. Carpooling is organized by the participants and they participate at their own risk.
Trailhead: Parking area off 55 and Tucker Ln in Linden at 8AM
GPS Coordinates: 38.9096005851368, -78.0528286336875
https://maps.app.goo.gl/eEq6bCtPYpqiCg1c9Park Entry Fee: $0
Rating: BDogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicyHowever, dogs are not allowed on the pickleball court.
Hiking Map: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1cUv7Jm_vBePu4I7nqJLCQgfinxW6J-UP/view?usp=sharing
6 attendees
Difficult Run Loop (Rating: C)
Riverbend Park, 8700 Potomac Hills Street, Great Falls, VA, USYou must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, 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.
8.63 mile circuit hike with 456 feet of elevation gain.
Description:
This beautiful hike starts out in Riverbend Park and follows the Potomac Heritage trail to Great Falls Park offering spectacular views of the Potomac River and the Great Falls.We will stop briefly at the 3 Great Falls Overlooks for some amazing views of the Falls and Mather’s Gorge.
From there we continue along the Matildaville Trail to the Ridge Trail.
which leads to the Difficult Run Trail.From Difficult Run Parking lot, we cross Route 193 and climb up Old Carriage Road, making a left on the Ridge Trail and then a right on the Swamp Trail to Old Carriage Road leading us back to the Visitor Center. From there we head back along the Potomac River and back to Riverbend Park. (see MAP)
Hike Pace: Pace will be about 2.5 mph.
Bring: Adequate water/hydration, snacks/lunch, and sturdy hiking shoes since there are some rocky areas/tree roots on the River Trail. Hiking poles if you normally use them. There are no stream crossings.
Fee: There is no entrance fee at Riverbend Park, but I will need to collect $2.00 from each hiker to cover the cost of group fees at Riverbend. for groups of 12 or more. I will get the Group Permit in advance. Small bills only please!
Dogs: dogs are welcome on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy.
Great Falls Trail Map:
https://www.nps.gov/grfa/upload/GRFA-complete-map-508.pdf
Where to Meet: Meet in the parking lot across from the Riverbend Park Visitor's Center at 9 am to allow everyone to get signed in and ready to hike at 9:30 am. The back of my white Honda HRV will be up.
Coordinates 39.01817, -77.24599 LINK
Address: 8700-8814 Jeffery Rd, Great Falls, VA 22066Any questions, please message me here or text me at 703 533 9231 Dawn K.
Post Hike FellowShip: Optional (The Old Brogue)
20 attendees
Autumn Foliage (Rating: A+)
Gainesville Park and Ride - University Blvd, 7250 New Stable Wy, Gainesville, VA, USYou must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, 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.
PLEASE READ THIS ENTIRE POST, CHECK TOTAL LINEAR MILES, ELEVATION GAIN AND THE PACE BEFORE RSVPING.
If I don’t know you, you MUST message the hike leader within 24 hours of signing up with a recent A+ hike you have done with NVHC or a hike leader from NVHC who can vouch for you. Otherwise, you will be moved to “Not Going”.
This hike is an A+ hike suitable for experienced, fit hikers who did similar distance/elevation in past few months.
This hike is ~12 miles’ two lollypop circuit with an elevation gain of ~ 2850 ft., featuring Corbin Cabin, Stony Man and Little Stony Man vistas. The hike starts from Pinnacles Picnic Area at Skyline Drive in SNP. Please drive all the way to back of the Picnic area near AT intersection cut-off trails area. Refer to the trailhead coordinates and the map posted for driving directions.
Carpooling meet at Gainesville Park and Ride, opposite to the new Sheetz Gas Station across from the New Stable Way, please be there NLT 06.45 AM ET. Refer to coordinates for further details.
Neither the Club nor the hike leader is responsible for coordinating transportation to/from the trailhead. Hikers are not guaranteed to get a ride to the trailhead from the carpool location. Carpooling is organized by the participants, and they participate at their own risk.
Approximate drive time to trailhead is 80 minutes without break. Hike leader will meet the group at trailhead.
Safety is paramount for all of us. This circuit has uphill/downhill climbs and few stream crossings.
Please bring water shoes if you don’t want to get wet.PLEASE PRINT OUT ANY MAPS THAT YOU MAY NEED AS I DO NOT PROVIDE COPIES OF MAPS. ALL THE LINKS AND COORDINATES YOU WILL NEED HAVE BEEN PROVIDED.
If you have ANY question about your ability to complete this hike, please contact hike leader.
Need to know details:
Distance: 12 miles (approximately)
Elevation gain: 2850 feet (approximately)
Pace: 2.5 mph (Average)
Terrain: Steep/Water Crossings
Park entry fee: $30 (Free with SNP pass)
Carpool Fee: $7
Gainesville Park and Ride Coordinates: 38.801329, -77.589873
Directions from Gainesville Park and Ride:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/y4sVeQyjW234rVWh8
Pinnacle Picnic Area Trailhead Coordinates: 38.623538, -78.343599
Trailhead meet up time: 8:15 a.m.
Dogs permitted in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy: https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy
Bring: Adequate water – minimum 2 liters, food/snacks, hat, layers, basic first aid kit, map, rain gear (depending), hiking poles, hiking shoe (It’s steep trail on descend) sunscreen, bug spray, water shoe (for water crossing, if you want), additional pair of socks and your big happy smile 😊.There are restrooms available (Sheetz Gas Station) at Gainesville Park and Ride and also at the trailhead.
Quiz: At lunch stop we can have 3 quizzes related to this hike. First correct answer gets the prize 😊
Thanks: To the teams, individuals and volunteers who contribute to keeping the trails safe and beautiful.
Any questions? Message or text me! Looking forward to this awesome hike.
Saran
(848) 248-055515 attendees
Past events
5012
