Alpine Climbing

Alright people, it's 2026. Let's start the hiking season off with an easier classic - Raven Rocks. Raven Rocks is a short out-and-back section of the AT that ends with a stunning view. The terrain is very rocky (wear good shoes), but this hike should be relatively quick. Wear layers as the temps can change quickly this time of year. We will meet at Vienna Metro at 9AM and carpool to the trailhead. Drive time is about 45 mins - Please post a comment below if you are willing to drive. Carpooling saves the environment and makes friends. ## **Trail Facts** * **Difficulty Level:** Moderate * **Length:** 5.7 Miles * **Duration:** 4 hrs * **Elevation Gain:** 1,535 Feet * **Permits:** No * **Parking:** Vienna Metro Station South * **Dogs:** Allowed * **Trailhead Coordinates:** 39.116468, -77.852405 * **AllTrails Map**: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/raven-rocks-via-appalachian-trail **Trail Details:** This out-and-back hike is considered moderate, but some locals call it "the rollercoaster" due to it winding up and down over several ridges. The view from Raven Rocks is spectacular and worth going uphill both ways. Dogs are allowed on this trail (please use a leash). A note on parking - If you plan to be one of the drivers, the parking at the trailhead is very limited. If the lot at the trailhead is full, there is a large commuter lot across VA 7. Do **not** park along Pine Rd (road that leads to the trailhead lot) as it is very likely you will be towed. On the way back, I plan to stop at Lark Brewing Co in Aldie, VA. The address is 24205 James Monroe Hwy, Aldie, VA 20105. **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!

We’ll do a circuit hike of 15.5 or 21.7 miles (you choose) along two of the prettiest Maryland suburban-DC stream valleys—**Northwest Branch** and **Sligo Creek**. The short version of the hike is difficult and the long version is difficult-er. We will proceed as a group for the first seven miles of both hikes, after which, you may hike at your own pace. This unusual, suburban wilderness hike will take you over natural-surface and paved trails, as well as a few stretches of sidewalk. The hike even includes some rock scrambling and sandy beaches, all with gentle elevation changes. Mud and/or ice on the trails have been known to occur. **[Photo albums](https://sites.google.com/view/wandering-soles/one-day-hike/training-hikes/nw-branchsligo-creek)** of previous versions of this hike. **MAPS & ROUTE NOTES:** See this **[folder](https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/13eoxioeq8uOAtpDM_TXJUqo2stk666pw?usp=sharing)** for hike handouts that include directions, route notes & maps, GPX files, and area information. You should download or print these, especially if you are unfamiliar with the routes. There are also Google Maps for the **[short](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=15lpfn2zbNWAbn0xta7q6K09xcIJBnC13&usp=share_link)** and the **[long](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=18SCpVfB2yLTiN9cJfqCgc4RH6E8ZNih-&usp=share_link)** hikes, to follow along on your phone's Google Maps app as you're walking. **WHEN & WHERE:** We’ll meet 8:30 AM at Wheaton Regional Park, in the parking lot in the lobby of the **[Ice Arena](https://bit.ly/4kvcRrB)**. Note that the park entrance for this location is at Orebaugh Avenue, off Arcola Avenue. Contact Mike (Mike.Darzi@Gmail.com) for a pick-up at a nearby Metro station. **WHAT TO BRING:** Bring food and drink (short hike, 2 qts; long hike, 3 qts); short hikers may also buy food along the way. You’ll proceed at your own pace and you may stop (or not) anytime to eat. This hike occurs rain or shine, cold or warm, so dress appropriately. However, in case of hazardous weather, please check here for last-minute changes before leaving for the hike. **LEADERS:** Mike Darzi (Mike.Darzi@Gmail.com) & Sean McCartney (SeanEMcCartney@Gmail.com) **SIERRA CLUB** You may join the Sierra Club by clicking the "JOIN" button at the top of the Virginia Chapter’s **[website](http://www.sierraclub.org/virginia)**. Membership is not required for participation. **ONE DAY HIKE** Although open to all, this training hike is part of a series of Saturday training hikes leading up to the **[One Day Hike](https://www.meetup.com/sierrapotomac/events/312467688/)** (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). For official updates regarding training hikes, registration, and other information, join the ODH discussion group by sending a blank email to OneDayHike+Subscribe@Groups.io

This event is NOT for beginners please. If you can't make it, please try to sign out at least 5 hours before the event starts. Thank you!

Ashby Hollow via Appalachian Trail on AllTrails [https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/ashby-hollow-via-appalachian-trail?sh=amrbvn&utm_medium=trail_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/ashby-hollow-via-appalachian-trail?sh=amrbvn&utm_medium=trail_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality) 5.7 miles, 1774 feet in elevation. it's an out and back, so we'll depend on the map or our bodies to tell us when to turn around. Bring food and other refreshments, proper clothing, etc. Remember as always that you are hiking at your own risk, and please let me or someone else know if you're turning around early. 1. Release Summary: To the full extent permitted by applicable law, you agree not to hold us responsible for anything that happens related to transactions with third parties, member interactions, or in connection with a Meetup group or Meetup event. You also agree not to hold organizers responsible for their negligence in connection with their Content, a Meetup group, or Meetup event. To the full extent permitted by applicable law, you agree to release us and our officers, directors, shareholders, agents, employees, consultants, corporate parent, affiliates, subsidiaries, sponsors, and other third-party partners ( “Meetup Parties”) from claims, demands, and damages (direct and consequential) (“Claims”), arising out of or in any way connected with any transaction with a third party, your interactions with other members, or in connection with a Meetup group or a Meetup event. You also agree, to the full extent permitted by applicable law, to release organizers from Claims based on an organizer’s negligence arising out of or in any way connected with their Content, a Meetup group, or a Meetup event. The law in some countries and states do not allow the release, so these limits may not apply to you. You waive and relinquish all rights and benefits that you have or may have under Section 1542 of the California Civil Code or any similar provision of statutory or non-statutory law of any other jurisdiction to the fullest extent permitted by law. You acknowledge that some Meetup events carry inherent dangers, such as the risk of illness, bodily injury, disability, or death. By participating in these events, you understand and agree that you have freely chosen to assume these risks. 1. Release Summary: To the full extent permitted by applicable law, you agree not to hold us responsible for anything that happens related to transactions with third parties, member interactions, or in connection with a Meetup group or Meetup event. You also agree not to hold organizers responsible for their negligence in connection with their Content, a Meetup group, or Meetup event. To the full extent permitted by applicable law, you agree to release us and our officers, directors, shareholders, agents, employees, consultants, corporate parent, affiliates, subsidiaries, sponsors, and other third-party partners ( “Meetup Parties”) from claims, demands, and damages (direct and consequential) (“Claims”), arising out of or in any way connected with any transaction with a third party, your interactions with other members, or in connection with a Meetup group or a Meetup event. You also agree, to the full extent permitted by applicable law, to release organizers from Claims based on an organizer’s negligence arising out of or in any way connected with their Content, a Meetup group, or a Meetup event. The law in some countries and states do not allow the release, so these limits may not apply to you. You waive and relinquish all rights and benefits that you have or may have under Section 1542 of the California Civil Code or any similar provision of statutory or non-statutory law of any other jurisdiction to the fullest extent permitted by law. You acknowledge that some Meetup events carry inherent dangers, such as the risk of illness, bodily injury, disability, or death. By participating in these events, you understand and agree that you have freely chosen to assume these risks.

[Profs and Pints Metro Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Celtic Mythology,”** an exploration of the beliefs of a people whose influence spread far beyond the British Isles, with Larissa “Kat” Tracy, past president of the American Society of Irish Medieval Studies, former editor of its journal, *Eolas*, and visiting assistant teaching professor of English at the University of Maryland Baltimore County. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-celtic-myths](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-celtic-myths) . The Celts inhabited lands stretching from the British Isles to parts of France and the Holy Roman Empire. Their influence can be seen in the art of the Vikings, in the rich oral and literary traditions of the Irish, Welsh and Bretons, and in the modern renaissance of Celtic culture. But who exactly were they? Get into the minds of the Celtic people by learning about their myths and beliefs with Larissa “Kat” Tracy, a scholar of Old and Middle Irish and Middle Welsh language and literature and published translator of Old Irish texts whose dynamic and fascinating talks have earned a considerable following among Profs and Pints fans. Dr. Tracy will delve into early medieval literary records that tell stories of the Tuatha de Danann, a godlike people who invaded Ireland and then were defeated themselves. She’ll offer a new perspective on faeries, banshees, and leprechauns by describing how the ancient Otherworldy people once believed to inhabit the western realms of Ireland were diminished or demonized into figures of popular folklore. You’ll learn how the ancient God of the Sun become one of the “little people” guarding cauldrons of gold and bestowing luck, how immortal beings of majestic stature shrank to small, winged creatures in the back of gardens, and how supernatural women associated with the “people of the mound” became screaming harbingers of death. We’ll explore how medieval literary texts inspired later legends and became adapted into folklore. You’ll gain an understanding of how the medieval Catholic Church’s growing power led local people to reimagine their ancient gods and goddesses as Christian figures like Saint Bridget and Saint Patrick. You’ll gain an appreciation of how the Celts gave rise to living traditions that survive in modern popular culture through the preservation of languages, storytelling and music enjoyed all over the world, and renewed interest in goddesses like Brid and celebrations like Samhain. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. Talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: From “Riders of the Sidhe,” a 1911 John Duncan painting of the Tuatha Dé Danann.

Below is the alltrails link to the hike: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/maryland/capital-crescent-trail We will only be doing 3 miles overall in this hike, out and back. Parking and Metro Access: Park in the garage near 7150 Woodmont Ave, Bethesda, MD 20815. Or park on the streets----- street-parking is free on Sundays. For metro: just get down at Bethesda metro station. We will meet at the trailhead next to the Ourisman Honda, check out the photo section of this event for a visual of the location. Bring plenty of water, whatever you need for your hike, and your awesome authentic self. Keep it easygoing. RELEASE OF LIABILITY & ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT: By being a member of this Group, RSVPing to any Activity, or participating in any Activity, You accept and agree to the terms and conditions described below: 1. You acknowledge that hiking in nature carries the risk of potential harm to yourself, including the risk of injuries such as broken bones or muscle/tendon injuries, illness, disability, or death. 2. You agree that You will at all times be responsible for Yourself and Your own safety. 3. You release and hold harmless with respect to all injury, disability, death, or loss of property, whether caused by negligence or otherwise, this group's leadership and members for the hikes that you participate in. 4. You acknowledge and agree that this Group is merely a collection of friends or potential friends who enjoy doing activities, and that in no event does any Organizer or Other Member assume any responsibility or liability for You. 5\. You agree not to sue and to release\, discharge\, waive and hold harmless all organizers and other members from and against all liabilities\, claims\, demands\, losses\, damages\, suits and proceedings\, for negligence\, carelessness or any other cause which you may have or that hereafter may accrue arising\, resulting from or related to your membership in this group or participation in any activity\.

*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.* (7ish-mile \*FUN\* exercise loop hike on the National Mall with occasional nano-runs [or optional fast walks].) We'll \*BRISKLY\* hike 7ish flat miles along dirt and paved trails and multiple staircases at the National Mall with stops roughly every 1/4 to 1/2 mile for 2 minutes of bodyweight exercises. Before each stop, we'll do a 30-second NANO-RUN (or fast walk or stairs). All exercises are modifiable and partner exercises are optional. We'll cover much of the National Mall. Starting at the restrooms by the (closed) World War II Memorial, we'll head past the Washington Monument and the Smithsonian's museums to the Capitol. Then we'll head to the Jefferson Memorial and follow the Potomac River to the Watergate steps (where First Lady Michelle Obama exercised on "The Biggest Loser" TV show. We'll hit the Lincoln Memorial and Constitution Gardens before returning to the WWII Memorial. There will be SELFIES! **MEET:** 9 am, bathrooms by World War II Memorial, 17 Street, SW at Independence Avenue, SW. Copy these GPS coordinates into Google Maps: 38.888064, -77.041273 **CLOSEST METRO:** Smithsonian Metro, 12th Street SW at Jefferson Drive SW, The National Mall. [https://www.wmata.com/rider-guide/stations/smithsonian.cfm](https://www.wmata.com/rider-guide/stations/smithsonian.cfm) **PARKING:** Please read the meters (and/or consult Parkmobile) before you park and check DC's parking website because parking is no longer free on the Mall and you can only park for 3 hours. It appears that you can still get FREE METERED STREET PARKING if you park A COUPLE OF BLOCKS OFF THE NATIONAL MALL on Sunday. There is likely free on-street parking by Virginia Avenue but I'm waiting to confirm that. Subway or private parking lot is recommended because 4.5 hours of metered parking may not be available. Consult DC's website: [https://www.parkdc.com/documents/20119eec435540ee8b6c49fcc314ac6c/explore](https://www.parkdc.com/documents/20119eec435540ee8b6c49fcc314ac6c/explore) **BRING:** Mandatory water, sense of humor, and sense of awe. Optional: oversized TRASH BAG TO SIT ON if you don't want to sit on the dirt or grass, gloves for pushups/planks, fully charged cell phone, and snack. **PLEASE READ. YOU \*WILL\* BE GRADED ON THIS: ;)** 1\. Adults only\. 2\. No pets\, including albino squirrels \(which we may see on the Mall\)\. 3\. Please do NOT attend unless you are experienced with bodyweight exercises\, you have done recent strength workouts\, and you can and will safely and cheerfully keep up with our moderate to BRISK pace \(about 3 mph while moving\)\. All exercises are optional and modifiable. Generally we'll do bodyweight exercises such as squats, lunges, situps, pushups, planks, wall sits, star jumps -- get that iPhone ready for the jumping pix! -- and other typical "boot camp" exercises. Hike leader is \*NOT\* a certified fitness trainer but just passing on exercises she has learned from fitness classes. Finish time is approximate for planning purposes. **WEATHER:** Hike will likely be cancelled or rescheduled due to rain/sleet/snow. Weather forecast will be posted here on March 21 by 5 p.m. **RESTROOMS:** At the start and along the mall. (But there could be lines.) **WORLD WAR II MEMORIAL:** (Closed for repairs but we're meeting at the restrooms.) [https://www.nps.gov/wwii/index.htm](https://www.nps.gov/wwii/index.htm) **NATIONAL MALL MAP:** [https://www.nps.gov/nama/planyourvisit/maps.htm](https://www.nps.gov/nama/planyourvisit/maps.htm) **PARKMOBILE:** https://parkmobile.io[https://parkmobile.io](https://parkmobile.io)

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

**💝 Speed Dating at Home – A Friendly, Inclusive Space for First Timers!** **🚨 NOTE: RSVPing Here Will NOT Hold Your Spot!** You need to click the sign-up link for your age group below, register, and finish the personality quiz to qualify. **Places fill up fast** – act now to lock in yours! **👇 Select Your Age Group & Claim Your Place:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=alpine-frost-love-thaw&ar=18-32&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=alpine-frost-love-thaw&ar=30-46&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=alpine-frost-love-thaw&ar=40-58&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=alpine-frost-love-thaw&ar=55+&face_v=3.0) --- 💬 **Genuine conversations beat endless swiping.** Meet someone this evening! Whether you've never speed dated or haven't been on a proper date in ages, this event is for you. Our welcoming format and skilled hosts make everyone feel at home from the very start. 🎯 **Perfect for:** - Anyone who's done with swiping and craves genuine conversation - Anyone who feels uneasy about conventional dating scenes - People wanting to meet local Cleveland singles without stepping outside **How It Works** 1. **Select Your Session** – Pick the age group that suits you and claim your spot. 2. **Complete the Matching Quiz** – Takes just a minute and significantly improves your matches. 3. **Jump on Zoom** – Your host will greet you and guide you through everything. 4. **Meet Your Matches** – Rotate through enjoyable one-on-one rounds with Cleveland singles who share your energy. 5. **See Who Liked You Back** – Mutual matches sent straight to your inbox. Your next chapter starts now! **Event Details** - **Format:** Zoom video session – interactive, personal, and inviting - **Location:** Your go-to spot at home – slippers optional, good vibes required - **Host:** Expert moderator who ensures every conversation flows smoothly - **Vibe:** Comfortable chats with Cleveland singles in a supportive, newcomer-friendly setting --- ✨ Newcomers always welcome. Join hundreds of Cleveland singles who found connection online! 🥰 ✨

**💗 Relaxed Online Speed Dating – Crafted for Newcomers & First Timers!** **🚨 ACTION NEEDED: RSVP Is Just the First Step!** To actually attend, you need to sign up through your age group link below and finish the personality quiz. **Places are capped** and we expect to fill up – register now! **📋 Find Your Age Range Below to Register:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=alpine-frost-love-thaw&ar=18-32&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=alpine-frost-love-thaw&ar=30-46&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=alpine-frost-love-thaw&ar=40-58&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=alpine-frost-love-thaw&ar=55+&face_v=3.0) --- 💬 **Genuine conversations beat endless swiping.** Meet someone this evening! Think of it as the most relaxed first date you'll ever have – from your sofa, with a host keeping things lively, and a room of Columbus singles who are just as eager (and perhaps just as nervous) as you. 🎯 **Perfect for:** - Introverts who thrive in one-on-one conversations - Working professionals who prioritise their time and comfort - Anyone after a fun, organised way to meet new people **Event Details** - **Format:** Virtual on Zoom – organised rounds in a warm, easy-going setting - **Location:** Wherever you happen to be – no commute, no parking, no fuss - **Host:** Encouraging facilitator experienced in helping first-timers enjoy speed dating - **Vibe:** Great energy, honest talk, and genuine connections with Columbus locals - **Follow-up:** Post-event match results delivered straight to your inbox - **Duration:** About 1 to 1.5 hours – plenty of time to meet great people without going too long **How It Works** 1. **Choose Your Age Range** – Click the link for your age group and complete sign-up. 2. **Answer a Few Quick Questions** – Our quiz helps pair you with compatible Columbus singles. 3. **Connect via Zoom** – No setup required. Just click the link and you’re good to go! 4. **Enjoy the Conversations** – Every round is timed and hosted so each chat feels easy and fun. 5. **Connect After the Event** – Mutual matches are shared so you can keep the conversation going. --- ✨ Newcomers always welcome. Join hundreds of Columbus singles who found connection online! 💞 ✨

Join us for 2.5 mile hike at the Whitehall Community Park leaving from the Whitehall YMCA. We will do two 1.25 loops around the park all on a paved path, including one significant hill.

**💘 Speed Dating at Home – A Friendly, Inclusive Space for First Timers!** **⚠️ HEADS UP: Clicking RSVP Isn't Enough!** You **must** sign up through one of the links below and finish the short personality quiz to confirm your place. Choose your age range and register now – **places are limited and fill quickly!** **👇 Select Your Age Group & Claim Your Place:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=alpine-frost-love-thaw&ar=18-32&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=alpine-frost-love-thaw&ar=30-46&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=alpine-frost-love-thaw&ar=40-58&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=alpine-frost-love-thaw&ar=55+&face_v=3.0) --- 🌈 **Searching for real, genuine connections?** This event was built for you! This Zoom-hosted speed dating experience takes the anxiety out of meeting someone new. You'll have short, structured rounds with friendly Detroit singles – all from wherever you're most at ease. 🎯 **Perfect for:** - Singles who value a guided, hosted dating format - Singles searching for authentic connections beyond the apps - Curious newcomers eager to give speed dating a shot - Introverts who thrive in one-on-one conversations - Remote workers who enjoy the flexibility of virtual meetups **Event Details** - **Format:** Zoom gathering – real-time chats in a chill online space - **Location:** Your own space – the comfiest date venue you could ask for - **Host:** Friendly, professional host focused on making everyone comfortable - **Vibe:** Warm, authentic conversations with Detroit locals searching for real connection - **Matching:** Driven by our personality quiz for stronger compatibility - **Rounds:** Several short rounds so you can meet plenty of people - **Dress code:** Smart casual – look sharp, feel great! - **Tech:** All you need is Zoom, a webcam, and a friendly smile **How It Works** 1. **Register** – Click the sign-up link for your age bracket above. 2. **Take the Personality Quiz** – We’ll pair you with compatible Detroit singles for the best evening possible. 3. **Connect via Zoom** – No setup required. Just click the link and you’re good to go! 4. **Enjoy the Conversations** – Every round is timed and hosted so each chat feels easy and fun. 5. **Your Results** – Check your matches and take the next step with someone special. --- ✨ Real people, real conversations, real connections – all from your living room. 💓 ✨

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.