Take a Hike! (DMV)

NOTE: NOT RECOMMENDED FOR NEW HIKERS. Join us for a hike at Cunningham Falls, where good company meets beautiful scenery. We’ll follow forest trails at a relaxed pace, enjoying friendly conversation along the way while getting some fresh air and exercise. Whether you come for the views, the camaraderie, or both, it’s a great way to connect with people who enjoy spending time outdoors.

Our 5-mile, Hog Rock Trail Loop, takes us through shaded woods with 980 feet of elevation gain, passing Maryland’s largest cascading waterfall before continuing on to complete the circuit. The trail offers a mix of natural beauty and peaceful surroundings, making it a rewarding outing for both seasoned hikers and those just looking to enjoy time outside.

After the hike, you’re welcome to join us for an optional lunch at the Springfield Manor Winery Distillery Brewery, 11836 Auburn Rd, Thurmont, MD 21788.

Meeting Time & Location
Meet at 9:30 AM in front of the Catoctin Mountain Park Visitor Center, 14707 Park Central Rd, Thurmont, MD 21788.

Distance: 5 miles
Elevation Gain: 980 feet
Difficulty Level: Intermediate/Advanced Hike
This hike features moderate inclines and a fairly easy stream crossing. 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 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
Available at the visitor center parking lot. Additional parking is available on the street shoulder.

NOTE: NOT RECOMMENDED FOR INEXPERIENCED HIKERS.
Come enjoy a day filled with fresh air, great views, and friendly company as we hike Sugarloaf Mountain! This hike is all about enjoying the outdoors, getting some exercise, making new friends, and sharing a memorable experience with a great group of people.

We’ll meet at the West View Parking Lot (check the map pin for the exact location) and head out on a 5.4-mile loop that will take about 3 hours. The hike follows the Blue Loop trail, to White Rock, where we’ll pause to take in the stunning views, snap some photos, and catch our breath.

After the hike, join us for a casual meetup at Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard. Feel free to bring your own food, but there's usually a food truck on premises. Please remember that outside alcohol is not allowed, but the vineyard offers wine by the glass for purchase. It’s the perfect way to relax, enjoy good conversation, and toast to a fantastic day spent outdoors.

We’re excited to have you join us! Be sure to wear your hiking shoes, bring water, and pack your positive energy. Let’s make this a fun and refreshing fall day together!

Meeting Time & Location:
We’ll meet at 9:30 AM at the Sugarloaf Mountain West View Parking Lot. Look for us by the picnic tables near the trailhead.

Distance: 5.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,063 feet
Difficulty: Intermediate / Advanced Hike
This hike is rated Intermediate to Advanced based on it's moderate inclines / elevation changes. There are no stream crossings or rock scrambles.

Estimated Duration
This hike is expected to take approximately 3 hours.

Pace: Moderate Pace
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.

Parking
We’ll park at the West View Parking Lot, which has plenty of spaces available and is a convenient starting point for our hike. Please refer to the event map to locate the correct parking area. Do not park at the East View Parking Area, which is the first parking area you’ll pass.

Meet 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.

NOTE: 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.