Backcountry

Hi all! My name is Cara, and I am a native English speaker from America living in Prague. This a meet up for t**hose learning English as a second language** and want the **opportunity to practice**. It will be a fun and relaxed setting where we will play games to **promote English conversations** or have some kind of activity. This club will meet **every other (two Mondays each month) Monday evening.** The goal is for each person to walk away having learned new English words and have more confidence when speaking in English. Please, bring some money if you want to purchase a coffee from Evento. **This event is sponsored by a church.** The church that sponsors this English meet up is **Církev bratrská, Bohnice** [https://www.cbbohnice.cz](https://www.cbbohnice.cz/) . We want to live lives that are reflective of Jesus. Like Jesus we want to help others in meeting a practical need, in this case that would be speaking in English. At the end of the English club, we will extend an invite to anyone who is interested in exploring faith, wants to know more about Jesus, or wants to meet up to read from the Bible. However, we will never trick you into attending and will always be honest about the content of our meetings. *You do not have to attend religious events to be a part of English Club.*

It's open gaming night again! Come alone (or with friends) and meet some new people to game with. Just look for the 'Open Gaming' table(s) and feel free to sit in. We'll keep the games pretty light, so if you don't know many games, don't feel intimidated. Instruction is always available. (70,- gaming fee still applies)

Who can attend this meetup: The tour is an introduction to Prague and is mainly for expats and visitors to our city but everybody who would like to join is invited. ***Important***, please also fill in the booking form on our [website](https://freewalkingtourprague.eu/en/schedule) if you are planning to come (otherwise we will not expect you). Description: Meet us by the Powder Tower, the historical gate to the Old Town and starting point of the Royal Route. Then have an educative walk through the narrow and picturesque streets of the historical center of Prague. Enjoy the unique diversity of architectural styles from Gothic to Art Nouveau. See some of the most interesting sites and get to know fascinating facts and legends of the 1000-year old capital of Bohemia. End the tour at the riverside 5 minutes away from the Charles Bridge, from which you can continue the tour on your own (or again with us) towards Malá Strana or Prague Castle. ====== Meeting point: We will be standing by the Powder Tower at the side of the Namestí Republiky square with a green umbrella in hand :) Map: https://goo.gl/maps/tzqKpZ2945S2 Price: there is no fixed price, you will be able to decide yourself how much you value the tour. If you don't know how much is best (and can afford it) we recommend 200Kč, but it really depends on you how much you contribute. Join us also on our [Facebook profile](https://www.facebook.com/freewalkingtoursprague/) :) and if you are travelling to other cities check out our friends at the [Free Tour Community website](https://freetourcommunity.com/). For any questions, please contact us at info@freewalkingtourprague.eu. Unfortunately, the meetup application does not always send us phone notifications. Reminder - only people who booked on our [official free walking tour website](https://freewalkingtourprague.eu/en/schedule) can join the tour and if the tour shows fully booked on the website it means there are no free spots. The meetup list doesn't count in this case. We look forward to meeting you, Michal, Amanda, Lana, Iva & Chris

Looking to meet new people in Prague and play badminton in a relaxed atmosphere? Join our social badminton event – perfect for meeting people and having fun while playing. 🏸 All levels welcome 🏸 No experience needed 🏸 We mix players so everyone gets a game This is not a competitive tournament – the focus is on socializing and enjoying the game. 📍 Location: Badminton Aréna Skalka 🕒 Time: 20:00–23:00 💰 Price: 350 CZK / 250 CZK with Multisport Spots are limited. 👉 Reserve your spot here: [https://www.bananasport.cz/sportovni-udalost/14](https://www.bananasport.cz/sportovni-udalost/14)

Would you like to know more about the tantric approach and add more depth to your sexual life but don’t know where to start? Would you like to deepen the relationship with yourself or with your partner? Or maybe you just want to be able to talk about these topics openly with like-minded people? I created Eros Reading Circle because I believe erotica nowadays is very misunderstood. Fast satisfaction is the preferred way on societal level. There are plenty of negative emotions – shame, guilt, low self worth – attached to the topic of pleasure in the collective and also on the individual level. The past few years I dedicated to self-exploration and the broadening of my horizon when it comes to depths of pleasure and living the tantric approach. We gather every three weeks in a cozy tearoom in the heart of Prague (near I.P. Pavlova). You don’t need to join every time. You can attend only one session or more – each time we will cover a different topic. We don’t read full books. When you book your spot, you will receive an email with the text for the upcoming circle and 2-3 reflection prompts. We usually cover one chapter, 10 to 30 pages (written in English). You are asked to read the chapter before the session. All genders, singles and couples are welcome. Our readings explore erotica, pleasure, tantra, ecstasy, desire and the polarity of masculine and feminine energies. Some sessions focus on men’s sexuality, others on women’s, and some on pleasure as a whole. During each circle, we begin with a short grounding practice, share what resonated or didn’t, engage in discussion and end with a closing reflection. Eros Reading Circle is for you: - If you are desiring to have a more conscious sexual life - If you want to deepen your relationship to self (and to your partner) - If you would love to attract a partner who complements you - If you would like to connect and exchange ideas with like-minded people - If you want to experiment with new practices, try new things - If you would like to leave behind negative imprints attached to your sexuality - If you are interested to learn about pleasure from a more spiritual or philosophical aspect - If you have wondered what tantra is and how could you apply it in your own life - If you would love to join a circle of book lovers but can’t commit to reading long books When? 1, 19.00-21.30 Where? Čajovna Šamanka How much does it cost? 350 CZK Facebook event link: https://www.facebook.com/share/19ejBQzci5/?mibextid=wwXIfr You can book your spot after clicking the link below: https://buy.stripe.com/3cI3cuelraocf8T0rP5Ne07 If you cancel with more than 24 hours’ notice, you can reschedule within three months. Our topic will be: More than Two - What is Polyamory? I look forward to welcoming you in the circle <3

**Looking for a fun way to meet new people in Prague?** Join us every Monday for our famous **Karaoke & Beerpong Mondays**– a relaxed and international evening where Erasmus students, expats, and locals come together to unwind, sing their hearts out, and enjoy some friendly competition. We start at 21:00 and go till late! (1-2am)🙏🏼 **💥 What’s Waiting for You** • 🎤 Karaoke – open mic all night long withh a DJ in between • 🏓 Free Beerpong – we’ll get you some free beer for the game 🍺 • 😌 Relaxed atmosphere – no pressure, just good vibes • 🌍 Meet internationals & Erasmus students from all over Whether you’re here to play, sing, or just vibe, it’s the perfect way to connect and kick back midweek. **👋 Who’s It For?** • Erasmus students • Internationals, expats, locals & travellers • Anyone who enjoys karaoke, games, and social nights out **🎟️ How It Works** ✅ Entry is free – just come :) 🍻 Free beerpong (yes, we provide beer for the game) 💬 Solo or with friends – everyone’s welcome **🔗 Stay connected** 📸 Instagram: [@erasmusinprague](https://www.instagram.com/erasmusinprague?igsh=eXdkNWJvdXZuZXJt&utm_source=qr) 💬 Join our [International WhatsApp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/FF9tF0cqyeJHkFd6krTczW?mode=ems_copy_h_t) 🔁 Recurring Weekly Event Same time, same place – **every Monday** :) **Monday doesn't work?** You're in luck, we do the very same event **every Thursday in club FAMU**, among other meet-ups throughout the week! 😁

Learning Czech can be hard and demotivating, especially when studying alone. **This meetup is a shared study session where we come together to stay focused, motivated, and make progress — each in our own way.** This is a co-learning / co-studying session, not a class. There is no teacher, no lesson, and no study material provided. Everyone comes with their own resources and studies independently, in a shared environment. 🧠 **How it works** • We all bring our own material: • textbooks • homework from a Czech course • Duolingo or other apps • reading practice • vocabulary review, etc. • We mainly work individually • We are free to: • ask questions • help each other • share tips and resources • No teacher, no formal structure, no pressure 👥 **Who is it for?** • Czech learners of all levels • Non-Czech speakers (expats, internationals) • Czech native speakers are welcome if they want to help, but this is not a language exchange ⏱ **Practical info** • Location: Cafedu 12, Škrétova 490, 120 00 Praha 2 (Metro A and C, Muzeum station) • Duration: 2 hours, or less or more, as you want • Day & time: Monday, 18:00 • Group size: small group for now • Free event — please support the café by ordering a drink ☕ If you’re learning Czech and lack motivation when studying alone, come join us — let’s find it together 🙂

The protected landscape area Bohemian Paradise (in Czech Český ráj) is a nature reserve about 90 km north-east of Prague. You will discover there the ruins of Zbirohy castle, rock labyrinth named Kalich–Chléviště and many spectacular viewpoints giving you a stunning panorama of Malá Skála village, Jizera river, Vranov castle and Frýdštejn castle. You will enjoy the remarkable beauty of the landscape and numerous historic landmarks, bizarre rock formations and deep pine forests. MEETING PLACE AND TIME At 7 a.m. outside the Main train station (Hlavní nádraží), in the park Vrchlického sady in front of Wilsonka pub (https://maps.app.goo.gl/9Z4Uiu2mPDdgkbG67). WHAT DO YOU NEED TO BRING? We recommend comfortable hiking or running shoes, some water, food, fully charged phone, warm and waterproof clothes in case of raining. Those who are interested, there is a local restaurant/brewery, where you can have lunch. But you can also bring your own food and have a picnic near Jizera river. DIFFICULTY: easy (around 12-16 km depending on the speed of the group, short uphills) ANY FEE? Early bird price: 650 CZK per person, after 10 May: 750 CZK per person. The fee includes transportation by train and services of the skilled and friendly guide (excludes food, drinks, insurance). We accept Sodexo: You can pay with Sodexo Fokus Pass voucher, Dárkový Pass voucher and Flexi Pass voucher. Online payment method is also possible with Flexi Pass CARD. We accept Benefit Plus as well. We also accept Edenred: You can pay with Edenred e-Ticket. CANCELLATION POLICY For a full refund, cancel at least 72 hours in advance of the start date of the trip. For a 50 % refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the trip. REGISTRATION Send us an e-mail to nomadsociety2018@gmail.com. In order to provide the best experience possible, the number of participants is limited (max. 15). MORE INFORMATION https://www.facebook.com/events/1600400814395672

Join **RSP Adventure** for an exclusive day trip into the heart of the breathtaking Moravian Karst, the largest and most important karst region in the country, located just north of Brno. Our journey takes us to the spectacular Punkevní Jeskyně, hidden within the canyon of Pustý Žleb and among the most famous subterranean wonders of Central Europe. The experience begins with a guided walk through impressive limestone corridors adorned with dramatic stalactites and vast underground chambers. The footpath is followed by a unique motorboat ride along the underground Punkva River, including a visit to the magnificent Masaryk's Dome—one of the most beautiful caves of the Moravian Karst. This is more than a tour; it’s an unforgettable journey beneath the surface into one of the Czech Republic’s greatest natural treasures. ***Limited places available.*** **Tour Highlights :** • Professional and friendly guide • Hassle-free day trip to Punkva Caves (private bus from Prague) • Entrance to the Punkva Caves • Boat trip along the subterranean Punkva River • Cathedrals of stalagmites and stalactites • Visit the bottom of Macocha Abyss • Entrance to the Balcarka Caves • Entrance to the Kateřinska Caves • Visit the devil's bridge You can pay for the trip via: • Bank transfer: 7392420507/6363 • Revolut: @augustetqc • Wise: @agustind162 **More information at :** [https://www.facebook.com/events/1612053600006717](https://www.facebook.com/events/1612053600006717)

**3x3 Basketball** practice in **Gymnázium Na Pražačce** indoor basketball court. **Start at 19h00**. Everybody is welcome, no age, gender nor any restriction of any type to join. We got a full field, rotating with 3x3 matches on each side. Cost: **90 crowns**. Please send the money using the **QR Code** stored here: https://imgur.com/a/thtAJd0 In case of any Opt-out within 24h of the session, or no show, the payment will be due (you still can ask someone to come instead of you, as your spot will be booked)

Join **RSP Adventures** for an unforgettable day trip through Prachovské Skály, once part of the historic Golden Path, and the charming town of Jičín. The famed Prachov Rocks form a spectacular rock town in the heart of the Bohemian Paradise. Our walk will lead us through narrow ravines, winding gullies, dramatic gorges, and along the tops of sandstone formations with stunning lookout points and hidden alcoves. Our trip begins in Jičín, where we can visit the Milohlídka–Čeřovka Lookout Tower, walk along the scenic Libosad Linden Alley, explore the Baroque chateau (now a museum), and admire the Church of Saint James the Greater. Distance : 10km (about 6 hours) Difficulty Rating : Moderate to Moderately Strenuous 📍 Limited spots available – don’t miss out! **Tour Highlights:** • Professional and friendly guide • Hassle-free day trip to Prachov Rocks National Park • Transportation by air-conditioned bus • Discover the historic town of Jičín, the gateway to Bohemian Paradise • Entrance fee to the park. • Climb the Čeřovka Lookout Tower • Conquer the Bohemian Paradise Lookout • Explore the American Cavern • Walk along the Imperial Corridor • See the Leaning Tower • Vyhlídka Míru • Hlaholská Vyhlídka • Savor traditional cuisine at a charming local restaurant. You can pay for the trip via: • Bank transfer: 7392420507/6363 • Revolut: @augustetqc • Wise: @agustind162 **More information at :** https://www.facebook.com/events/26374077325576431/

**6-a-side Football** practice at Pražačka Football artificial grass pitch. Maximum of 18 participants for 3 teams of 6. **Kick off at 12h00**. Everybody is welcome, no age, gender nor any restriction of any type to join. Cost: **90 crowns**. Please send the money using the **QR Code** stored here: https://imgur.com/a/PjU32Fi In case of any Opt-out within 24h of the session, or no show, the payment will be due (you still can ask someone to come instead of you, as your spot will be booked)

**Ochutnávka japonského čaje s Rishe Tea a Live Talk s fotografem v Peak Design Prague Store** Zveme tě na klidné zastavení uprostřed města. Přijď ochutnat výběrové japonské čaje od **@rishe_tea** — čaje pocházející od organických farmářů z Japonska, kde se kvalita, původ a poctivé zpracování berou opravdu vážně. Zveme vás na **Live Talk s Honzou Musilem o knize Umění čínských mečířů**. Povídat si budeme o tom, jak vyfotit nádhernou ruční řemeslnou práci a proč Honzu meče tolik uchvátily. Kniha a několik mečů budou na místě k vidění a užít si večer v inspirativní atmosféře.

We are a group of runners who meet most weeks for a run around the beautiful Vltava River's edge. You can bring your running shoes straight from the office/home office if you don't have time to stop at home. There will be a place to put your bags in the Cafe. We will run about 9 km along the river and have a drink afterwards. Paces vary! We will meet in the square near Kavarna Liberal (Hermanova 6), near the Vltavska metro/tram stop at 6:30 on Wednesday. See you there!

**IMPORTANT -** If you are not 100% committed please do ***not RSVP.*** No shows will be de-propritized for future events. Lets do a 2-night backpacking trip over Memorial Day weekend! The Mount Rogers/Grayson Highlands loop hike is an iconic section of the Appalachian Trail, located in the southwestern hills of Virginia within the Jefferson National Forest. This region is best known for its vast mountain views and alpine peaks with **wild ponies** roaming about. This area is also home to Virginia's highest point, Mount Rogers, sitting at 5,729'. This is a premier east-coast backpacking destination, so don't miss this one. ## **Trail Facts** * **Difficulty Level:** Moderate * **Length:** 21.4 Miles * **Duration:** 3 Days * **Elevation Gain:** 3,898 Feet * **Bear Canisters:** Not Required * **Permits:** None * **Dogs**: Allowed * **Meetup/Carpool:** Vienna Metro South * **Trailhead Parking:** 36.6893579, -81.5320954 * **AllTrails Map**: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/mount-rogers-and-appalachian-trail-loop-958adb5?u=i&sh=rak641 **Trail Details:** We will meet at The Vienna Metro station on Saturday morning at 8am and drive to the Mt Rogers Trailhead (off Rt 603). This parking lot is **NOT** the paid lot near Masie Gap, and so can fill up. I'd like to try to get there as early as possible. The drive is about 5 hours. I will drive and am happy to have others carpool with me - but please note, I will have my small black labrador in the back seat. **Day 1** After we park, we will hike about 7 miles to our campsite, diverting once to summit Mt Rogers. There arent any views here, but it's worth the .3 miles to say you've been to the highest point in VA! We will camp on the first night at the scenic tent sites near the Thomas Knob Shelter on the AT. There is water at this site and we may see wild ponies if we're lucky. **Day 2** The second day is about 10.7 miles, which includes spectacular views, unique rock formations and wide open grassy meadows. We will camp near the Old Orchard Shelter. There is a spring with water at this site as well. **Day 3** The third day will be a short 3.5 mile hike from camp back to the cars. Getting to the cars early will mean that we should get back to DC around 4-5pm. On the drive home, I plan to stop at Martin's in downtown Roanoke (413 1st St SW, Roanoke, VA 24011). **Essential Items**: * Tent * Sleeping pad​ * Sleeping bag suitable for expected temperatures​ * Backpack (appropriate for overnight backpacking)​ * Backpacking stove with fuel​ * Pot, cup, dish, and utensils​ * Dehydrated meals​ and snacks * Water bottles or hydration system (capacity for at least 2 liters)​ * Water filter or purification tablets​ * Headlamp with extra batteries​ * Rain gear * Dry bags or pack cover​ * Warm clothing layers (non-cotton) * Trowel for and toiletries for Leave-No-Trace compliance **Optional Items**: * Personal first aid kit​ * Map and compass or GPS device * Power bank or external battery * Trekking poles​ * Camp shoes * Electrolyte supplements​ * Alcohol​ * Books, games, or other enterainment * Gaiters​ * Sunscreen, lip balm, insect repellent​​ **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. **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!

Excited to head to Dolly Sods Wilderness in June. As Juneteenth falls on a Friday this year, it's a three-day weekend for some. Planned split is 1/14(+optional 5)/8. Here is the planned route: https://caltopo.com/m/E6C3C1L **NOTE**: I'm doing trail work in Dolly Sods Wilderness (my first [AHS Volunteer Vacation](https://americanhiking.org/volunteer-vacation-trip/american-hiking-legacy-project-dolly-sods-vistas-famous-blackwater-falls-wv/)) Sunday June 14 through Thursday June 18. As I'm going to be off-grid leading up to the trip, co-organizer Aileen will be the point person for carpools, questions, etc. the week before the trip. **Waiver**: By RSVPing to this trip or any other DC UL trip, you agree to these guidelines and to DC UL's waiver liability terms ([https://dculbackpacking.com/about/liability-waiver/](https://dculbackpacking.com/about/liability-waiver/)) COVID-19 policy: [https://dculbackpacking.com/about/covid-19-guidelines/](https://dculbackpacking.com/about/covid-19-guidelines/) **Dues**: Members and above, don't forget to pay your annual dues. You can check if you need to pay dues by seeing if the current year is listed next to your name in your DC UL profile. Applicants do not need to pay dues for their first trip. To pay your dues via PayPal, use this link: **[https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/JenniferAdach/15](https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/JenniferAdach/15)** ($10 annual dues plus a $5 suggested donation to City Kids Wilderness Project.) **Carpool**: As per our carpool policy, riders should pay drivers $0.10/mile. Expect around $29. \- James \(Biodome\)

Veronica's Spruce Knob trip later in June reminded me that I really want to hike this area, but I'm busy that weekend. Come do a relaxed exploration of Spruce Knob/Seneca Creek with me earlier in June! On Saturday and Sunday, we will cover \~11 miles and \~8 miles respectively, depending on which campsites are available near the falls. Here is our planned route on Caltopo ([https://caltopo.com/m/N970BF1](https://caltopo.com/m/N970BF1)). This is a great trip for "applicants" (meaning that this is your first DCUL trip), so I'll reserve 5 applicant spots out of 10 total spots. Because I'm setting those spots aside, it may look like the trip is already full, but if you're an applicant, join the waitlist and I'll add you from there. If this is your first DCUL trip, please send me a list of your gear. You can learn about membership ranks [here](https://dculbackpacking.com/about/membership/). And no worries if your gear isn't ultralight. This is a low mileage (LM) trip. Read about DCUL's trip ranks [here](https://dculbackpacking.com/about/tripranks/). We'll meet at the Vienna metro (north side parking lot) at 8 am on Saturday and drive to the Spruce Knob Parking Lot ([Directions](https://maps.app.goo.gl/hEs3TR7Ggpvi2Pce9)), arriving around 11:30 or noon and start hiking from there. There are a lot of water features and at least one water crossing that may be deep, so you might want to bring sandals and other things that can get wet. If it's warm, some might go swimming! Saturday evening we'll camp nearish to Seneca Falls, depending on which campsites are available. Sunday we'll pass by the site of a plane crash from the 80s. We'll stop for lunch on the drive home. DCULers have maps! Some options: * Purple Lizard Dolly Sods-Seneca Rocks ([https://www.purplelizard.com/products/dolly-sods-seneca-rocks-map](https://www.purplelizard.com/products/dolly-sods-seneca-rocks-map)) * [https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5433335.pdf](https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5433335.pdf) * Caltopo [https://caltopo.com/m/N970BF1](https://caltopo.com/m/N970BF1) **Waiver**: By RSVPing to this trip or any other DC UL trip, you agree to these guidelines and to DC UL's waiver liability terms ([https://dculbackpacking.com/about/liability-waiver/](https://dculbackpacking.com/about/liability-waiver/)) **Carpool**: As per our carpool policy, riders should pay drivers $0.10/mile. Total driving distance is around 334 miles, so all non-drivers should expect to pay $35 or so to their driver.

I've never done the North Fork Mountain Trail and wanted to do it, but it's a long drive for a 24-mile hike. So, I am combining it with one of my favorite WV hikes: Spruce Knob/Seneca Creek. We will need a car shuttle for the North Fork Mtn Trail, so depending on the number of participants, we will need 2-4 drivers. The plan is to leave Vienna Friday morning at 7:30 am, drive to the northern trailhead (38.98168, -79.23100), leave 1-2 cars there, drive to the southern trailhead (38.71083, -79.40214), start North Fork Mountain Trail hike. We will do about 12.4 miles to the campsite and possible spring (if it's really dry, we can set up a water cache or carry enough for the whole hike). Saturday morning, we will get up early and hike the remainder of North Fork Mtn Trail, drive to southern trailhead and from there to Spruce Knob Parking. Saturday afternoon we will hike down from Spruce Knob to Seneca Creek and camp anywhere along the creek, ideally by the Seneca Falls. Sunday morning, we'll hike up to see the plane crash site from the 70s and then hike back up to Spruce Knob and drive home. Caltopo: [North Fork Mountain - CalTopo](https://caltopo.com/m/QH724F1#) North Fork Mtn Trail: https://myhikes.org/trails/north-fork-mountain-hike Spruce Knob/Seneca Creek: [Backpacking the Spruce Knob/Seneca Creek Loop](https://www.greatamericanhikes.com/post/backpacking-the-spruce-knob-seneca-creek-loop) **Waiver**: By RSVPing to this trip or any other DC UL trip, you agree to these guidelines and to DC UL's waiver liability terms ([https://dculbackpacking.com/about/liability-waiver/](https://dculbackpacking.com/about/liability-waiver/)) COVID-19 policy: [https://dculbackpacking.com/about/covid-19-guidelines/](https://dculbackpacking.com/about/covid-19-guidelines/) **Dues**: Members and above, don't forget to pay your annual dues. You can check if you need to pay dues by seeing if the current year is listed next to your name in your DC UL profile. Applicants do not need to pay dues for their first trip. To pay your dues via PayPal, use this link: **[https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/JenniferAdach/15](https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/JenniferAdach/15)** ($10 annual dues plus a $5 suggested donation to City Kids Wilderness Project.) **Carpool**: As per our carpool policy, riders should pay drivers $0.10/mile.

Have you ever wanted to ***really*** immerse yourself in Pocahontas County, West Virginia? Here is your chance! Last Memorial Day Weekend, DC UL hiked a section of the Allegheny Trail (“ALT”) from Blackwater Falls to Durbin. Let’s knock out the next section this year: Durbin to Sherwood Lake. This section of the trail bisects most of Pocahontas County. Expect wet feet, regular ascents and descents, 4k feet of *daily* elevation change over 4 days, big miles, and very remote hiking. You must be in solid “Veteran Member” status for this one. In addition to this being a physically tough trek, it is at times tough to follow navigationally. The reward? When co-workers talk about Pocahontas around the water cooler, you’ll be able to say confidently, “***do I know*** Pocahontas County!" This section looks much harder than the one we hiked last year—hopefully, it will be just as funny. [Here is the trip report from that adventure](https://dculbackpacking.com/2025/05/29/trip-report-this-trail-has-everything-allegheny-trail-section-2-blackwater-falls-sp-to-durbin-west-virginia-may-22-26-2025-73-miles/): https://dculbackpacking.com/2025/05/29/trip-report-this-trail-has-everything-allegheny-trail-section-2-blackwater-falls-sp-to-durbin-west-virginia-may-22-26-2025-73-miles/ (For those of you who missed out on the Blackwater-Durbin section, and who want to someday hike the entire ALT, I’ll redo that section on a future trip). **The Plan** Friday: We’ll carpool at 3:00 p.m. from the Vienna Metro to Trainer, WV to leave a car or two. Then, we’ll drive to Durbin, WV to camp at a campground in town. Saturday, Sunday, Monday, Tuesday: We’ll hike SB on the ALT with tentative splits of 20, 19, 14, 16 miles. There may be a restaurant opportunity in Cass for Saturday evening. We pass a gas station convenience store on Monday, but it may be closed on Memorial Day. On Tuesday we may go for swim in Sherwood Lake before reversing the shuttle. We’ll have lunch at Station2 restaurant in Durbin before we drive home. **IMPORTANT: YOU NEED TO TAKE A HALF DAY LEAVE ON FRIDAY AND ALL DAY LEAVE ON TUESDAY (I’M ASSUMING YOU ALSO HAVE MEMORIAL DAY OFF).** I set the group size at 5 to make the shuttle work. I can expand it if we get enough drivers, so join the wait list if interested. I’m limiting this trip to Veteran Members. DC ULers have maps! [Everyone should use the FarOut app for this one](https://faroutguides.com/allegheny-trail-map/), with the maps downloaded. The trail is tough to follow and is often rerouted. FarOut is the most accurate line. https://faroutguides.com/allegheny-trail-map/ [Here is a Google Maps version](https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1VRr0rrSWM4sSTA5B_1bHqolLzLfcmzAZ&ll=37.84614715940329%2C-80.22346559843282&z=8): https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1VRr0rrSWM4sSTA5B_1bHqolLzLfcmzAZ&ll=37.84614715940329%2C-80.22346559843282&z=8 [You can buy maps to print here](https://www.hikethealleghenytrail.org/new-page): https://www.hikethealleghenytrail.org/new-page \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-**THE IMPORTANT WARNINGS**\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- I’m just a co-participant on this trip, not a guide or an expert. I’ve been hiking with DCUL since 2017 but have no special training, such as organizational, medical, or navigational.
You are officially on the trip if you both RSVP on Meetup, we engage by email, text, or the app, and you meet me at the trailhead. Otherwise, you are doing your own trip until you make physical contact with me and I recognize you as a co-participant. I’m open to questions. By RSVPing to this trip or any other DCUL trip, you agree to these guidelines and to DCUL's waiver liability terms ([https://dculbackpacking.com/about/liability-waiver/](https://dculbackpacking.com/about/liability-waiver/)) COVID-19 policy: [https://dculbackpacking.com/about/covid-19-guidelines/](https://dculbackpacking.com/about/covid-19-guidelines/) Dues: Members and above, don't forget to pay your annual dues. You can check if you need to pay dues by seeing if the current year is listed next to your name in your DCUL profile. To pay your dues via PayPal, use this link: [https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/JenniferAdach/15](https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/JenniferAdach/15) ($10 annual dues plus a $5 suggested donation to City Kids Wilderness Project.)

In order to officially secure your spot on this event and to receive the details email of where to exactly park and meet with us you must register on our site by clicking the link below. https://www.trailboundproject.com/service-page/guided-hike-secret-view?referral=service_list_widget Our events typically fill up at 24 people for guided hikes! You won't see the attendees here on meetup as registrations are on our site but we wanted to let you know that we typically see large outings for all of our events! This guided hike has a nominal non-refundable $20 registration fee to secure your spot. The Secret View hike is a short out-and-back 2.5-mile hike with 450' of elevation up and down in a less popular part of Sterling Forest State Park in NY. We named it the Secret View hike because it is a very little-known view only accessible via unmarked trails. The view technically has a name, but you'll need to join us on the hike to find out what it is! The only hikers who visit it are locals who are... well... in the know! It's an easy-to-moderate hike that we'll take at a leisurely pace. We park at the trailhead near a medium-sized beautiful lake and head off on one of the park's unmarked woods roads. After taking in the interesting sights and features along this flat section, we turn onto another unmarked trail to head up to the small ridge. At the summit of this unnamed peak in New York, we find ourselves looking out at an incredible 180-degree view of the forests and peaks of New Jersey without any evidence of civilization. Since it's a short hike, we'll take our time resting, chatting, and enjoying the view at the top before we head back down. The parking and hike details are emailed after registration.

**Important** \- I've pre\-purchased day\-use tickets for this hike\. Please only sign up if you are 100% committed Old Rag is one of my favorite hikes on the east coast. The way up is nothing short of incredible - you will experience switchbacks, scrambles, false summits, interesting trail navigation, and absolutely amazing views. This is *the* iconic day hike in Shenandoah. Don't miss it. Please make sure to get a day-use ticket for $2 using the link below. I plan to stop for food/drinks at Old Bust Head Brewing Co on the way back (7134 Farm Station Rd, New Baltimore, VA 20187). We will meet at Vienna Metro at 9AM and carpool to the trailhead. Drive time is about 1 hour and 45 mins - Please post a comment below if you are willing to drive. Carpooling saves the environment and makes friends. ## **Trail Facts** * **Difficulty Level: Strenuous** * **Length:** 9.4 Miles * **Duration:** 5-6 hrs * **Elevation Gain:** 2,604 Feet * **Permits:** Pre-purchased (you can venmo me $2) * **Parking:** Vienna Metro Station * **Dogs:** Not Allowed * **Trailhead Coordinates:** 38.571008, -78.293499 * **AllTrails Map**: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/old-rag-mountain-loop-trail?u=i&sh=rak641 **Trail Details:** This hike, although challenging, is one of the most popular and spectacular hikes in Shenandoah National Park. It has been referred to as an “unforgettable” hike by many. Your climb to the peak includes many rocky switchbacks, various false peaks, and several scrambles. The descent, which will be slightly longer than your ascent, is a much more gradual grade that ends with an easy walk down a fire road. Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on this trail. This is a challenging hike that will take most of the day. It is highly recommended that you bring plenty of water as well as snacks and electrolytes (i.e. Gatorade). Hiking Old Rag is an adventure that should be on every Virginia hiker’s bucket list. **DAY USE TICKETS:** There were limited tickets left, so I've pre-purchased 14 day use tickets. You can give me $2 in cash or via Venmo. **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!