14ers

Meet in the parking lot of the Handy Bikes Service Center. At the start of each ride, we'll go over introductions to have a sense of participants' cycling experience. Over the course of our rides, we'll address the following: group riding dynamics; safety (ABC check & trail hazards); gear shifting; hill climbing; audible and hand communication within the group, with other trail users, and automobile drivers; what to bring on each ride; etc... Bring your questions, water & a snack. When it starts getting dark earlier, we'll need lights as well. Helmets a MUST. If you can, and especially if you've had issues with your bike, come a bit early to have it looked at ahead of the ride. PS - all levels are welcome to join, however, be mindful that if you are an experienced rider, please be prepared to ride at the pace of the newest rider in the group. Each week, depending on who's in attendance, and participants' riding ability/comfort level, we may do skills practice as a group in the parking lot or at the west end of Wheeler Ave. Once everyone is comfortable, we'll go for a ride on local trails and neighborhood streets and finish back at the shop. Happy Pedaling !! \~Maya

Thursday night wheaton soccer

Let's enjoy the current warmer weather with a hike this Sunday in DC's Rock Creek park! This one’s for all the car-free DC folks, those who want an short morning drive with easy parking, and anyone who wants to explore one of region's great urban parks. This is a moderately challenging hike due to its length (rather than elevation). We’ll move at a steady 2-3 mph pace with breaks as needed. Water and bathrooms are available at the start, and may also be available a few miles into the hike, but please carry a minimum of 1L with you. Start location: we’ll meet at Picnic Grove 24 across from Rock Creek Tennis Center [https://maps.app.goo.gl/wUMV6UqH7GKsDBbA8?g_st=ic](https://maps.app.goo.gl/wUMV6UqH7GKsDBbA8?g_st=ic) Route: [https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-ba011fd](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-ba011fd) Parking: Free and plentiful Transit: Several buses go past this location on 16th Street. You can pick them up from Silver Spring metro (red line) or various metro stations in downtown DC. Bikeshare: the nearest dock is at Colorado Ave & Longfellow St NW per Google. Meet time: We'll meet at 9:30 am at the location noted above and, after intros, start hiking the trail shortly afterwards. There is no official after hike meal planned. For those that which to gather informally, the hike leader recommends Moreland's Tavern, which is an easy walk from our meeting point: [https://morelandstavern.com/](https://morelandstavern.com/lunch/) CARPOOLING: Although this is one of our rare public transportation-accessible hikes, we encourage those with cars driving in from outside DC to be willing to carpool - you're the ones who make LMH great! If you're a driver that is willing to drive, please post a comment on the event page with the following information: (1) Number of seats (2) Meeting location (3) Meeting time As a rider, please comment on the driver's post to take a seat or post in the comments that you need a ride so a driver can find you. Riders are encouraged to help their driver out with the cost of gas. We look forward to hiking with you! BACKGROUND INFO ABOUT LMH: Please remember that this group is an informal group of friends and volunteers initiating trips under the common adventurer model ([http://www.ronwatters.com/CADefine.htm](http://www.ronwatters.com/CADefine.html)). We do expect our members to be familiar with the best practices of hiking. This is not a group for first time hikers and is NOT a group for those seeking hiking instruction. We are also not professionals, nor are we trained hike leaders, nor do we scout out hikes. We plan hikes for fun. You are responsible for your own welfare and safety at all LMH events. Be sure to choose to attend hikes only within your own physical abilities and and hiking knowledge; take maps, suitable clothing, provisions (at least two liters of water plus any food or medical supplies you might require) and equipment, and act responsibly and safely at all times. Act responsibly and safely: if you ever believe you may be lost, follow the advice of the US Forest Service ([https://www.fs.fed.us/visit/know-before-you-go/if-you-get-lost](https://www.fs.fed.us/visit/know-before-you-go/if-you-get-lost)) LMH organizers and members shall not be liable for any injuries, loss or damage to persons or property, direct or consequential, arising out of any aspect of LMH activities. By attending this event, you represent that you have read, understand, and agree to the contents of our waiver of liability in the following link ([https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pQ0dedcqlyjc_Aib3TEbTX4gQRQt4C7FeCmsAPyTxd4/edit?tab=t.0](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pQ0dedcqlyjc_Aib3TEbTX4gQRQt4C7FeCmsAPyTxd4/edit?tab=t.0))

Celebrate the passing of the seasons and the return of the sun on our Annual Sugarloaf Winter Solstice/Poetry Hike, an Adventuring tradition since 1997. This year we're able to do this hike on the actual day of the Solstice--Sunday, December 21, 2025. After varying the routine a bit last year, we will return to our usual 7-mile circuit, with lunch at White Rocks and climbing to the summit near the end. Expect some climbing and a variety of terrain, including some rocks. During our White Rocks lunch, we’ll share favorite poems in honor of the passing of another year. Meet at 9 a.m. at the Grosvenor-Strathmore Metro Station. So we can plan accordingly, please answer the Meetup questions about whether you’ll be meeting us at Grosvenor-Strathmore or Sugarloaf, and whether you can be a carpool driver. Those wishing to drive directly to Sugarloaf should contact Chris Craig for directions and time; you can email him directly at [ccraig@laurellodge.com](http://mailto:ccraig@laurellodge.com/). We'll all rendezvous by 10 a.m. in the West View parking lot—the one at the top of the drive. Bring a bag lunch (we will NOT be stopping at a Sheetz on the way), water, sturdy shoes, the $5 Adventuring fee, $5 to reimburse your carpool driver — and most important, a poem to share on the mountaintop (your own or someone else's). \>\> Please [click here](https://adventuringlgbtq.com/Adventuring_Release_Form.pdf) to review our release form. When you RSVP to an event, you affirm that you have read and agree to the terms of the release.

This is a short one overnight backpacking trip, NO A DAY HIKE, not a cabin/car camping event, we will be carrying on our backs all what we need whit us from star to end of trip. Maybe your pass-of-right if you have never winter backpack before and want to test your cold weather gear. Considered an easy/moderate backpacking trip in Spring, Summer or Fall, not such thing in winter conditions. PS: The first 3 miles will totally kick you'r behind due to elevation gain so be ready, the rest will be easier. At 13 miles the Mudhole Gap loop isn't as difficult as a lot of shorter hikes. After we compete the first 3.8 miles to the ridge line near Meneka Peak the remaining 3/4 of the hike is either downhill or mostly flat, with the exception of a gradual ascent on the back loop. Little Passage Creek that runs through Mudhole gap is beautiful in the spring when the water is running with snow melt, I have never be there in cold weather conditions, this will be my first full winter visit. GEAR LIST What you need to bring: 1.) Tent 2.) Sleeping bag rate 15F 3.) Sleeping pad 4.) Rain suit 5.) Warn hat-globes 6.) Extra pair of socks. 7.) Backpacking stove + pot/cup/dish/spoon 8.) Dehydrate food for yourself. 9.) Big mouth bottle NOT camelback since the house will froze. 10.) Snacks/sandwich/power bar, etc. 11.) Water - I do recommend at least 2 lither. 12.) Water purification system 13.) Micro spikes (a must have) IMPORTANT:Saturday everybody take breakfast at home or on your way to meetup location (Vienna-Metro), or we can stop at any food place around, lunch will we on the trail while we are on the move, you NEED to bring food for Saturday dinner and breakfast/lunch on Sunday + snack/water/drinks for both days wile we walk in and out, again we will stop for lunch and/or dinner on our way back home. Trail map to be follow in PDF format: http://www.hikingupward.com/GWNF/MudholeGap/images/Map.pdf GPS Coordinates: 38.934576, -78.320073 [link to trailhead](https://maps.app.goo.gl/tAt6aeFUy3kLQaTFA) Carpool: Don't forget if you want a ride or are willing to offer a ride – be a friend to the environment, save money, and make friends by just posting a message!! Have a ride: Please post where you are coming from, what time, and how many spots you have. Need a ride: Post that you need a ride and contact any offers via e-mail for those that are offering rides.

**Park Map / Trailhead hike – NO BUS** *$5. Long hike: 12½ mi., 2000 ft. ascent. Moderate hike: 8 mi., 1400 ascent.* Meet at Cleveland Park Metro (East Side) at 9:00 AM You can be assured of a good hike, and a convenient, in-town opportunity to enjoy nature before the frenzy of Christmas day. The 1,754-acre park – one of the largest urban parks in the world – boasts 32 miles of wooded trails. We’ll walk to the park via the Melvin Hazen Trail, Western Ridge Trail, Valley Trail, and several connecting trails. RESERVATIONS Capital Hiking Club is a non-profit group, and the public is invited on all trips. Reservations are accepted as late as Friday, but reserving before Wednesday night helps ensure your spot and prevent cancellation of the hike due to low sign-ups. RSVP through Meetup and pay through PayPal. Please be sure your RSVP gives your full name and phone number. 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 at least a 2 mph pace. LIABILITY By RSVP'ing for a CHC hike, you acknowledge and accept that hikers are responsible for their own safety and must assume risks and liability for all outings. CHC leaders, officers, and representatives shall not be liable for any injuries, loss or damage to persons or property, direct or consequential, arising out of any trips or club activities. Participants will be asked to sign a waiver the day of the hike. CANCELLATION POLICY To cancel and receive a full refund less a $5 processing fee, you must change your RSVP to "No" on Meetup **before 12PM the Thursday** before the hike. If you change your RSVP after 12PM the Thursday before the hike, no refunds will be issued. MORE DETAILS -- **[SEE THE FAQS ON OUR WEBSITE](https://www.capitalhikingclub.org/hikes-faqs)**

**+++++++++++++++++++++** **IMPORTANT:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** 1. It's like the "BOO"cycle ride, but for the Holiday Season. Not sure where we are going just yet, but it will be around Del Ray once I know who has the nicest lights. 2. Your ONE Thermos should have your hydration. 3. Your OTHER Thermos should have a hot drink of your choice. 4. We will be stopping at the Dairy Godmother for a FREE DONUT (or whatever treat you would like) courtesy of CBG. They will also let us use their restrooms. 5. Fun, Festive, Battery Powered Lights on your bicycles are strongly suggested. The more lights the better to be seen with at night **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride: Summary** **(Must Read)** **+++++++++++++++++++++** * RIDE NAME: "Jingle Bell"cycle Ride (oh what fun it is to ride...) * START LOC: Alexandria City Hall, meet in parking Garage. * START GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/N6tkF5YcCQp](https://goo.gl/maps/N6tkF5YcCQp) * PARKING INFO: Parking under City Hall $5 * ARRIVAL: 5:00pm * SPEECH: 5:15pm * ROLLING: 5:30pm * SUNSET: 4:49pm * LEVEL: Medium Level * DISTANCE: \~13 miles * PACE: 12-13+ (casual parade pace) * TERRAIN: Alexandria bike trials / lanes / sharrow streets. * **RIDEWITHGPS ROUTE:** TBD **NOTE:** * Dress in layers for the weather (Ugly Sweaters Encouraged) * 100 Lumen (or Greater) Front Light (Read all about them here: [https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/events/273787949](https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/events/273787949)) * Red Tail Light * Verify they all have a fresh charge * Fun, Festive, Battery Powered Lights on your bicycles are strongly suggested. The more lights the better to be seen with at night. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride : Detail** **+++++++++++++++++++++** For your pleasure NoVA CBG presents our "Jingle Bell"cycle Ride. This ride is on a Saturday night as to try to not overlap with other holiday festivities that might be going on. It's like the "BOO"cycle ride, but for the Holiday Season. Not sure where we are going just yet, but it will be around Del Ray. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Meeting Spot:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** Alexandria City Hall 301 King St. Alexandria, VA 22314 GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/N6tkF5YcCQp](https://goo.gl/maps/N6tkF5YcCQp) We will meet in the Parking Garage @ Alexandria City Hall. Please note that there is usually ample parking in the garage located directly below City Hall for $5.00 all evening. However, give yourself plenty of extra time to find other parking if the garage below city hall is full. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride After The Ride:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** NONE YET **+++++++++++++++++++++** **Ride Level Chart** **+++++++++++++++++++++** NoVA CBG tries to accommodate all levels of cyclists by offering different types/levels of rides. We just ask that you come to the ride that suits your current riding ability the best. * Introductory Level: If you haven't ridden a bike in a number of years (or are uncertain of your abilities on a bicycle). * Beginner Level: You can ride for 10+ miles at a pace of 10+ to 12+ mph with potentially minor hills involved. * Medium Level: You can ride for 20+ miles at a pace of 13+ to 15+ mph with potentially moderate hills involved. * Advanced Level: You can ride for 20++ miles at a pace of 15+ mph with potentially major hills involved. Both Medium and Advanced Levels might require handling various challenges such as reading cue sheets, using a Garmin or navigation app, night riding, out of town travel, or any other odd cycling situations. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Fine Print:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** An RSVP of 'YES' is your digital signature and means you have read and understood MEETUP.com's: * "Terms of Service : Section 6. Release" found at https://www.meetup.com/terms/ * NOVA-CBG's "Assumption of Risk Agreement" found @ https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/pages/1942951/NOVA-CBG_Waiver/ * NoVA CBG's "COVID Policy" found @ http://bit.ly/2021_NoVACBG_COVID19_POLICY Helmets are required to participate in all NOVA-CBG rides. All riders ride at their own risk and with the understanding that cycling is an inherently dangerous activity. When coming to the meetup you do so voluntarily and are ready and able to participate in the ride as described under the conditions of the day. Be on time for the "pre-ride" preparation. If you do not attend the pre-ride preparation you will not be allowed to participate on the ride. There are NO exceptions to the above.

Join us for a **fun and social hike** at Rock Creek Park as we explore the "Southern Loop," starting from the Nature Center. Starting at the **Nature Center**, the "Southern Loop via Western Ridge Trail, Rock Creek, and Valley Trail" is a well-loved route. With over 2,700 glowing reviews on AllTrails, it offers beautiful scenery, well-maintained paths, and a refreshing escape close to the city. This **easy hike** winds through lush forested trails, showcasing the beauty of Rock Creek Park. While the trail is mostly straightforward, please note that sections **slippery**, so wear sturdy, grippy shoes. To learn more about the trail, click the link in the **Trail Map section below**. Get ready for fresh air, great conversations, and plenty of scenic moments! This hike is perfect for all levels, so bring your good vibes and let’s hit the trail together! **Meeting Time & Location:** Meet us at 9:30 AM at the **Rock Creek Park Nature Center,** located at 5200 Glover Rd NW, Washington, DC 20015. There’s plenty of parking available at the Nature Center. We’ll gather right in front of the building to start the hike. **Distance:** 5.6 miles **Elevation Gain:** 685 feet **Difficulty:** Moderate Walk/Hike This hike is a moderate walk with natural trails and a few gentle inclines to get your heart rate up. The terrain includes some uneven sections, and the fallen leaves can make it a bit slippery in spots. With sturdy footwear, it’s an enjoyable and accessible hike for most levels. **Estimated Duration** This hike is expected to take approximately 2.5 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** Ample parking is available at the Rock Creek Park Nature Center, with additional overflow parking located across the street. **Trail Map (AllTrails)** [Rock Creek Park - Southern Loop](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/rock-creek-park-nature-center-a2f0474?u=i&sh=ylk43q) With over 2,700 reviews on AllTrails, this popular route offers insights into the trail’s conditions and highlights. Click the link above to learn more and prepare for your hike! **Restrooms** Restrooms are available at the Nature Center, our meeting point at the start of the hike. They open at 9:00 AM. Additionally, there are restrooms approximately 1 hour into the hike, where we’ll take a brief break. **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** After the hike, join us for an optional lunch at **Pete’s New Haven Style Apizza** (4940 Wisconsin Ave. NW), an affordable, counter-service spot just a 10 minute drive away. They serve New England-style pizza, pastas, salads, antipasti, and local brews—something for everyone!

Hi ladies. We will meet in front of the Nature Center and head to the two Observation decks. We will then hike Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook and Sugarbush trails to get approximately four miles total distance. We will walk approximately a 18 minute mile pace. Please wear appropriate hiking shoes.

We will hike approx 4 miles looping through the gardens, boardwalk trail and chipmunk trail.