Adventure Sports

**Make new friends and enjoy the great outdoors** on a 4.2-mile loop hike from Riverbend Park to Great Falls Overlook and back, with an optional **lunch at Mookie’s BBQ afterward**. This hike offers a great mix of outdoor adventure and social connection, giving you a chance to enjoy nature while meeting others who share your love for the outdoors. We’ll start at the Riverbend Park parking lot and follow a scenic trail through the woods with a few small inclines, then on the return from the Overlook we'll follow the trail along the Potomac River. The route winds through peaceful woodlands and scenic riverside paths, leading to the stunning Great Falls Overlook 2. This is an **easy-to-moderate hike**, with mostly flat terrain and a few gentle inclines, making it accessible to a wide range of fitness levels. The hike will take about **2.5 to 3 hours**, offering plenty of time to enjoy the views and good company. Afterward, join us for lunch at **Mookie's BBQ** located at 1141 Walker Rd, Great Falls, VA 22066. It’s the perfect way to relax, socialize, and share stories with fellow hikers. Whether you’re here for the scenery, the exercise, or to connect with like-minded people, this outing promises to be a memorable experience. Spots fill quickly, so don’t wait to sign up! **Meeting Time & Location:** We’ll meet at **9:30 AM** in the Riverbend Park parking lot. Please refer to the map pin for the exact location. **Distance:** 4.2 miles **Elevation Gain:** 302 feet **Difficulty:** Easy (a few gentle inclines) This hike features natural, well-maintained trails that are mostly flat, with a few easy-to-walk uphill sections near the beginning. The wide and smooth paths make it easy to walk and chat with others along the way. With minimal obstacles and straightforward navigation, this hike is an excellent choice for anyone seeking an enjoyable and manageable outdoor adventure. **Estimated Duration** This hike is expected to take approximately 2.5 to 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 **Riverbend Park parking lot**, which has ample spaces and serves as the starting point for our hike. Please check the event map for the exact location to ensure you arrive at the correct lot. **Trail Map (AllTrails)** [Take a Hike! (DMV) - Riverbend Park (Great Falls Overlook 2)](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/take-a-hike-dmv-riverbend-park-26dd0db?u=i&sh=ylk43q) Preview the hiking route on AllTrails to get familiar with the terrain. Download the map in advance to follow along and stay on track during the hike. **Dogs on the Trail** For everyone’s comfort and enjoyment, we kindly ask that you leave your dogs at home for this hike. Thank you for understanding! **Restrooms** Restrooms are available at the Riverbend Park Visitor Center and at the Great Falls Visitor Center. **Lunch After the Hike** Join us after the hike for a casual lunch at **Mookie's BBQ**, 1141 Walker Rd, Great Falls, VA 22066 - (703) 759-2386. It’s a great chance to relax, enjoy a meal, and connect with fellow hikers.

This is an easy out-and-back, go-at-your-own pace hike of up to 8 miles on the C&O Canal towpath along a scenic stretch of the Potomac River between Carderock Recreation Area's Parking Lot 4 and Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center. ([Trail map](https://bit.ly/41EUJCq).) Meet by 10 AM at Parking Lot 4 in Carderock Recreation Area (Note that the Google Map will take you to Lot 2, but follow the signs to Lot 4). A portion of the hike is along a serene lake-like portion of the canal known as Widewater. The Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center has historical and interpretive information and exhibits about the canal. Restrooms are nearby. Return to the towpath from the visitor center/restrooms and head back to Carderock. The 0.25-mile Great Falls Overlook trail is 0.3 miles from the visitor center on the right. From the overlook are spectacular views of Great Falls (pictured above). Although open to all, this hike is part of a series of Saturday training hikes leading up to the [One Day Hike](https://www.meetup.com/sierrapotomac/events/297686196/) (ODH)—100 or 50 km along the C&O Canal—on May 2, 2026. See SCPRO’s [Meetup page](https://www.meetup.com/sierrapotomac/) for other training hikes as they are posted. If you would like to support the ODH, see [volunteering opportunities](https://www.meetup.com/sierrapotomac/events/312467618/) and/or contact Mike Darzi ([Mike.Darzi@Gmail.com](mailto:Mike.Darzi@Gmail.com)). For official updates regarding training hikes, registration, and other information, join the ODH email list by sending a blank email to [OneDayHike+subscribe@Groups.io](mailto:OneDayHike+subscribe@Groups.io) . Dress for the weather---layered, non-cotton clothes. Bring water (two quarts) and snacks. Sierra Club requires all participants to sign a liability waiver form; you may sign at the trailhead. A $2.00 donation per person is appreciated to cover SCPRO expenses---leader training, first aid, and web site. Optional: After the hike, meet for pizza at [Potomac Pizza](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Potomac+Pizza+-+Potomac+Village/@39.0174149,-77.2130225,17z/data=!3m2!4b1!5s0x89b634bb3590299d:0x69265a0f8d1971fb!4m5!3m4!1s0x89b634bb4049e6a7:0xb04f879e1747f02!8m2!3d39.0174108!4d-77.2108338), 9812 Falls Road, Potomac, MD. If you are not already, become a Sierra Club member by clicking "join" on the Sierra Club Virginia Chapter web site: [http://www.sierraclub.org/virginia](http://www.sierraclub.org/virginia) (You don't need to be a member to participate in SCPRO events.) Leaders: Gabriele Ludwig; Gary Kosciusko; Frank Wodarczyk

This 7-mile circuit hike is a great local hike that travels through a few eras of time along the Potomac River. Our planned loop is rated as easy/moderate with approximately 500 feet of elevation gain over variable terrain and some tricky footing in one area. There there will likely be mud somewhere along the way. Our hike visits both the C&O Canal and Blockhouse Point in Darnestown, Maryland. The Blockhouse played a role in Civil War history as a supply complex, nestled in upland forest overlooking the Potomac River. We'll be travelling over trails over 150 years old. We might to see a few local winter birds as we pass the Dierssen Wildlife Management Area and along the C&O Canal. And of course, we’ll have Potomac River views for days from atop the high bluff. Meet at the Rockville Metro Station at 10 a.m. to form carpools. We’ll gather at the Kiss & Ride lot on the west side of the station (the side on of MD-355). Bring mud-worthy sturdy footwear, water, snacks, lunch, sunscreen, and bug spray. Trip fee: $6. ($1 transportation, $5 Adventuring trip fee) There will NOT be a pit stop on the way to the trailhead. RSVPs open 2 weeks before the event. --> 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.

*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.* (Rating B) 9ish-mile loop hike at moderate 2.5 to 3.0 pace with roughly 700 feet elevation and several exploration stops) This 9ish-mile waterside and forest loop hike ambles past three horse centers in Rock Creek parks. We’ll start at the nonprofit Meadowbrook Stables by East-West Highway in Chevy Chase, ramble south into DC as close as we can near the historic US Park Police Rock Creek Horse Stables where President Reagan once rode, (declared off limits to the public in August, 2025 reportedly because the National Guard is ensconced there), and we'll wind up by the bustling Rock Creek Park Horse Center. Along the way we'll bushwhack a short distance to eyeball DC Boundary Stone NW9 (DC's slowly disintegrating boundary stones are the oldest federal monuments in the U.S.); check out 1861 Civil War Fort DeRussy; and explore some abandoned building stones from the US Capitol's 1958 renovation. (The Architect of the Capitol moved most of the relics several years ago in part because people were stealing rocks as souvenirs.) We'll also keep our eyes and ears open for birds, beasts, and other natural gems -- and briefly visit the Rock Creek Park Nature Center. And we'll also trek through geological time -- hiking along the geological "fall zone," which is marked by mini-waterfalls in Rock Creek (where the older, hard-rock Piedmont Plateau province starts to smack into the younger, soft-sediment Atlantic coastal plain). We will STOP several times to briefly explore historic areas and/or for nature. Our route will take us along the ridge and valley trails, some side trails, an asphalt trail, and a residential street. We'll encounter at least one minor stream crossing. DC's historic 1,754-acre Rock Creek Park ends at the Maryland border. Another roughly 1,800 acres of parkland continues north in Maryland as Rock Creek Regional Park. The regional park's 14-mile asphalt trail runs from DC's border to Lake Needwood. **MEET:** 9:30 a.m., on the sidewalk by the stone Meadowbrook Activity Building at Candy Cane City Park, 7901 Meadowbrook Lane, Chevy Chase, MD. GPS: 38.986634, -77.061880 **IMPORTANT NOTES.** **PLEASE READ. YOU WILL BE GRADED ON THIS:** Adults only and no pets, including pet ponies or pet horse flies. Bring: sense of humor, sense of awe, and water. Optional binoculars, cameras, and iNaturalist apps are welcome since at least one stretch of the trail is usually birdy and the hike leader can't resist a good nature op. Finish time of 2 pm is approximate depending on our stops. NPS hikes are capped at 20 people because they require a pricey permit for larger groups. **WEATHER:** Our hike might be tweaked, canceled, and/or postponed if it rains/snows. Forecast will be posted here on Saturday, Jan. 10. **RESTROOMS:** Portapotties at start and restrooms at the nature center, near our turnaround point. At least one portapotty on the return leg. **Closest Metro: Bethesda’s Red Line Station:** [https://www.wmata.com/rider-guide/stations/bethesda.cfm](https://www.wmata.com/rider-guide/stations/bethesda.cfm) **Rock Creek Park Trail Map (DC):** [https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/maps.htm](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/maps.htm) [https://npmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/rock-creek-park-map.pdf](https://npmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/rock-creek-park-map.pdf) **Rock Creek Regional Park (MD):** [https://montgomeryparks.org/parks-and-trails/rock-creek-regional-park/](https://montgomeryparks.org/parks-and-trails/rock-creek-regional-park/) **Maryland’s Rock Creek Regional Park Trail Map:** [https://montgomeryparks.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/rock-creek-trail-map_a11y.pdf](https://montgomeryparks.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/rock-creek-trail-map_a11y.pdf) **Rock Creek Park Geology:** [https://npshistory.com/publications/rocr/nrr-2009-146.pdf](https://npshistory.com/publications/rocr/nrr-2009-146.pdf) **Rock Creek Park Horseback Riding:** [https://www.nps.gov/rocr/learn/historyculture/adhi4d.htm](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/learn/historyculture/adhi4d.htm) **Rock Creek Park Nature Center:** (with NPS's sole planetarium, 202-895-6070) [https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/nature-center-and-planetarium.htm](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/nature-center-and-planetarium.htm) **National Park Service's free map app:** [https://www.nps.gov/subjects/digital/nps-apps.htm](https://www.nps.gov/subjects/digital/nps-apps.htm) **Fort DeRussy:** [https://www.nps.gov/places/fort-derussy.htm](https://www.nps.gov/places/fort-derussy.htm)

Get ready for an epic 13.5-mile journey through the heart of the capital! This Sunday, we're taking over the streets and trails for a scenic loop that showcases the best of D.C. and Northern Virginia. **Meeting Details** Since Freedom Plaza is entirely fenced off for renovation, we have a new designated starting point just outside the construction zone. * **Meeting Spot:** The corner of Pennsylvania Ave and 14th St NW, just outside Pershing Park. * **Meeting Time:** 11:00 AM. * **Roll Time:** 11:10 AM sharp! *** **The Route** We’ll be hitting a mix of smooth city streets and scenic paved trails: * **Heading South:** We’ll roll out from the city center, heading toward the Potomac. * **Crystal City:** Our destination is Crystal City, where we'll reach the turnaround point. * **The 14th St Bridge:** We’ll cross back into D.C. over the 14th St Bridge, enjoying sweeping views of the river. * **Ohio Drive & The Waterfront:** From the bridge, we’ll transition to Ohio Drive, gliding past the Tidal Basin and the riverfront. * **Monumental Landmarks:** Our return leg takes us right past the Kennedy Center and the White House. * **The Finish:** We’ll wrap up our 13.5-mile loop right back where we started at the corner of 14th and Pennsylvania. The Route: https://onthegomap.com/s/p0rdgf9g *** **Weather Forecast (Sunday, Jan 11)** Expect a crisp and breezy winter skate! * **Conditions:** Partly sunny throughout the day. * **Temperature:** High of 49°F, so layer up! * **Wind:** West winds at 15 mph, which may add a bit of a challenge on the bridges. * **Precipitation:** Low chance of rain (15%). *** **Quick Stats** * **Total Distance:** 13.5 miles. * **Terrain:** Primarily flat, paved trails and bike lanes. * **Vibe:** High energy, iconic views, and great company. For up to the minute details, check Facebook and Instagram. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WashingtonAreaRoadskaters/events Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weareskatedc/ We hope to see you there!

We will meet at Pierce Mill, 1PM. The Hike will last for about 1.5 hours. This is an inaugural event, welcome feedback on how to improve fututre events. Dress in layers, as it may be chilly.

Social tennis. No level required. This event is outdoors. You should bring a racket and water.

We meet on Sundays at 8 a.m. for training runs on some of DC's best trails, including Rock Creek Park and the surrounding area. We typically meet at either Peirce Mill in Rock Creek Park, or Roosevelt Island, depending on the route. Details of the weekly schedule can be found here: https://new.vhtrc.org/runs/sip We hope you can join us for a run! All paces and levels of trail experience are welcome for these runs, which range in distance from 6 to 9 miles.

(Bus hike) Today's there-and-back hikes go along the section of the Tuscarora Trail that straddles the state line between Virginia and West Virginia on the ridge line of Great North Mountain. This section of the Tuscarora Trail runs along the ridge line of Great North Mountain and provides extensive views both the west and the east. All hikers start from Rt 48/55 and go up to Eagles Nest Overlook. At this point moderate hikers lunch, enjoy the view to the area at Capon Springs Resort, and then return. Long hikers continue to a second overlook at the power line crossing, which also provides extensive views, lunch, and then return. The absence of foliage during this season enables hikers to obtain views of the valleys to the east and the west, even in places that are not designated as overlooks. Est.: 12.5 miles, 1700' and 7 miles, 1200'. Tuscarora Trail Guide. Fare: $33. VA Hikes * **[DC: Near 17th and K St. NW](https://bit.ly/17thandKnu)** downtown (east side of Farragut Square). Bus leaves at 8 a.m. SHARP, so it's essential to arrive well before 8 am. * **[Vienna Metro: NORTH parking lot](http://bit.ly/vienna-bus)**, last bus shelter (Nutley St. Exit off Interstate 66 on North/Vienna side of I-66) at approximately 8:25 a.m. Park at 9486 Virginia Center Blvd, Vienna, VA 22181 * * Caution: The "south" parking lot also has bus shelters. If by 8:15, you're not with a group of Wanderbirds hikers, you may be in the south lot. There's a walkway that passes the fare gates over I-66 to the north lot. RESERVATIONS Wanderbirds Hiking Club is a 501(c)(7) non-profit, and the public is invited on all hiking trips. Reservations are accepted as late as Saturday, but reserving as early in the week as possible 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 and where you'll be boarding the bus. 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)

Just good ole Ultimate Frisbee. Tons of fun. Great group. No stacks. No pick calls (but no picks!!!). Fair warning to those totally new to ultimate: it's a lot of running. \*\*Please pay close attention to the rule #6 listed below. *What to DEFINITELY bring* 1. Running shoes/Cleats 2. One white shirt *and* one dark shirt !!!! See this one !!!! \-\-\- IMPORTANT you can play both dark and white so we can make teams when we get there; just pickup after all 😎 3. Water *What you can ALSO bring* 4\. Snacks & Drinks 5\. Gloves \(winter\) 6\. Sunscreen \(summer\) 7\. Sunglasses 😎 House Rules - 1. Starting Play: Each point begins with both teams lining up on the front of opposite end zone lines. The defense throws ("pulls") the disc to the offense. 2. Scoring: Each time the offense catches a pass in the defense's end zone, the offense scores a point. The teams switch direction after every goal, and the next point begins with a new pull by the team that just scored. 3. Movement of the Disc: The disc may be advanced in any direction by completing a pass to a teammate. Players may not run with the disc. The person with the disc ("thrower") has ten seconds to throw the disc. The defender guarding the thrower ("marker") counts out the stall count. 4. Change of Possession: When a pass is not completed (e.g. out of bounds, drop, block, interception, stalled), the defense immediately takes possession of the disc and becomes the offense. 5. Substitutions: Players not in the game may replace players in the game after a score and during an injury timeout. (Modified depending on the number of the attendees) 6. Non-contact: Players must attempt to avoid physical contact during play. Picks and screens are also prohibited. 7. Fouls: When a player initiates contact that affects the play, a foul occurs. When a foul causes a player to lose possession, the play resumes as if the possession was retained. If the player that the foul was called against disagrees with the foul call, the play is redone. 8. Self-Officiating: Players are responsible for their own foul and line calls. The host will also step in if it is needed. Please message the event host for any questions or concerns. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Smiley Social documents:** 1. [Group Rules ](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg) 2. [Liability Waiver ](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco)

Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area. If trail conditions are poor, we will use the Multipurpose Path.

Hike approx 4.0 miles at approx. 18 minute mile pace. Meet in front of the Nature Center.

Hi ladies. Let's hike the multi purpose trail. Wear your shoe of choice. Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area. 101 Craft Kitchen is about seven minutes away at 817 Polaris Pkwy, Westerville, OH 43082 We willl be doing a loop and I’ll ask one of the faster walkers to lead in the front and I’ll bring up the rear at a slower pace - 3.25 to 3.5 mph or slower! No one left behind!

Hike approx 4.0 miles at approx. 18 minute mile pace. Meet in front of the Nature Center.

Please join us the 3rd Wednesday of each month to learn more about the Columbus Ski Club and what we have to offer. Pizza, wings and a variety of appetizers provided. We are a non-profit organization founded in 1958 with over 800 members. The club has grown beyond the single mission of providing members with not only quality skiing events but also year round social and sport activities. Our gatherings are an opportunity for members and non-members to interact and learn about the many activities offered such as euchre, billiards, volleyball, tennis, bowling, golf & softball leagues along with ski and non-ski trips. Our members also plan group activities such as visits to bike trips, glass blowing workshops, plays and local sports games, etc. CSC membership is not required to belong to the Meetup group. Membership is required in order to participate in most club activities (CSC member). However, anyone (21 and over) is welcome at our meeting gatherings which consist of checking out our current activities and socializing. The annual dues for club membership are $35 with the membership year from September 1st – August 31st. [https://www.columbusskiclub.org/content.aspx?page_id=60&club_id=686961](https://www.columbusskiclub.org/content.aspx?page_id=60&club_id=686961)