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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out backpacking events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the backpacking events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
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Backpacking Events Today
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Bluebells to Bluetail (Rating: C)
*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.*
**DESCRIPTION:**
Roughly 7ish mile circuit hike (with nature focus) from Riverbend Park (with acres of peaking bluebells and other wondrous wildflowers) to Great Falls Park (where an uber-rare red-flanked bluetail bird from Siberia and beyond has been visiting since New Year’s Day). Roughly 350ish elevation change.
At our start in Riverbend Park, we’ll dawdle slowly for the first mile to admire the wildflowers, frogs, toads, salamanders, an eagles' nest, and scenery.
After that, we’ll hike at roughly 3 mph but still stop occasionally for flowers, frogs, and other fun stuff. We’ll trek along Riverbend’s uphill trails and then down by the Potomac River to Great Falls Park. There is a **slightly tricky rocky crossing** between Riverbend and Great Falls — right by the now infamous Potomac Interceptor sewage line that crosses the Potomac River and creates a mini-waterfall. **People with balance problems would likely find that difficult.**
When we enter Great Falls, we’ll look for the bluetail bird, which resembles an Eastern Bluebird. We’ll turn around (and take a break) near the Great Falls' overlooks. Then we’ll head back to Riverbend along the river with its almost endless eye-candy views of rocks and rapids.
The bluebells will be about peak -- along with gobs of other wildflowers (cutleaf toothwort, Virginia springbeauty, sessile trillium, etc.) -- like they're all dressed up for our Easter Parade.
**CARPOOL:** Carpooling is recommended. Riverbend is hosting its own short hike at 9:30 so we don’t want to use too many of their parking spots.
**WEATHER:** Change in weather policy: if there is a threat of some minor rain, we will still hike. We may have to adjust our route to avoid some of the slippery parts. I will post a final decision by 5 PM on Saturday.
**IMPORTANT NOTES:** Adults only. No pets, not even real live Easter bunnies.
**BRING:** ***$2 cash.*** Riverbend, a Fairfax County park, requires a $30 payment for more than 12 hikers so please bring $2 cash. No change, please. Also bring water, a snack, and a fully charged cell phone. Optional: camera and/or binoculars, iNaturalist app, and high-quality chocolate to share with your fellow hikers.
**BATHROOMS:** Portapotty at start, restrooms at turnaround, and at end.
**MEET:** **8:30 a.m.** **RIVERBEND PARK'S VISITOR CENTER** *(Not the Nature Center)* deck facing the river.
Please arrive early and ready to go by 8:40. Thanks.
Riverbend Park 8700 Potomac Hills St., Great Falls, VA
Beware of Google Maps directions. Use these GPS coordinates to reach the visitor center at the intersection of Potomac Hills Street and the Potomac River. 39.018743, -77.245956
[https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend](https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend)
**RIVERBEND PARK TRAIL MAP:**
[https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/sites/parks/files/assets/documents/trails/trail%20maps/riverbendtrailmap2.pdf](https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/sites/parks/files/assets/documents/trails/trail%20maps/riverbendtrailmap2.pdf)
**GREAT FALLS PARK:**
[https://www.nps.gov/grfa/index.htm](https://www.nps.gov/grfa/index.htm)
**GREAT FALLS PARK TRAIL MAP:**
[https://www.nps.gov/grfa/upload/GRFA-complete-map-508.pdf](https://www.nps.gov/grfa/upload/GRFA-complete-map-508.pdf)
**EBIRD** **GREAT FALLS PARK:**
[https://ebird.org/hotspot/L718485/recent-checklists](https://ebird.org/hotspot/L718485/recent-checklists)
**NORTHERN VIRGINIA’S WILDFLOWERS:**
[https://www.pwconserve.org/plants/](https://www.pwconserve.org/plants/)
**NATIONAL PARK SERVICE’S FREE MAP/BROCHURE APP:**
[https://www.nps.gov/subjects/digital/nps-apps.htm](https://www.nps.gov/subjects/digital/nps-apps.htm)
**WASHINGTON POST’S BLUETAIL STORY:**
[https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2026/03/08/rare-bird-red-flanked-bluetail-virginia/](https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2026/03/08/rare-bird-red-flanked-bluetail-virginia/)
**VIRGINIA WILDLIFE MAGAZINE’S BLUETAIL STORY:**
[https://dwr.virginia.gov/blog/spotted-a-superstar-red-flanked-bluetail-far-from-home/](https://dwr.virginia.gov/blog/spotted-a-superstar-red-flanked-bluetail-far-from-home/)
(Trailhead) Hike: Seven Bends, VA
(Trailhead hike) Explore one of the newest state parks in Virginia. The park is located in the picturesque "oxbow" area of the North Shenandoah River. Moderate hikers will cover Hikes include the Eagle's Edge Trail, River Bend Rise Trail, Massanutten Trail, Talus Trail, Reservoir Trail and Gakotta Trail, while long hikers will add a there-and-back on the Massanutten Trail. Est.: 11.5 miles, 2000' elevation, and 8.5 miles, 1500' elevation. Park map. Hike fee: $5.
Trailhead: Seven Bends State Park, 2111 S. Hollingsworth Rd. Woodstock, VA, 10:00 AM
Driving Directions
From Vienna Metro Station to Seven Bends State Park, VA, Hollingsworth Road Entrance
1. Follow I-66 West for around 62 miles.
2. Take exit 1A to merge onto I-81 S toward Roanoke. Follow I-81 South for 17.4 miles.
3. Take exit 283 for VA-42 toward Woodstock.
4. Turn left to go East on VA-42/W Reservoir Rd.
5. Continue straight through the town of Woodstock.
6. In about a mile, turn right onto Hollingsworth Road. Drive across the one lane bridge and turn left to stay on Hollingsworth Road.
7. Continue Hollingsworth Road to Seven Bends State Park entrance.
Without traffic, the trip is 1 hour, 20 minutes
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)
Backgammon Tournament - Swiss Format, 4 Rounds of 5 points
Top level Backgammon Tournament play. Have fun and improve your game. Free lessons to new and inexperienced players. Club been active over 30 years, posting on Meetup is new.
UGANDA – 9 Days Murchison Falls, Big 5, Chimps & Gorillas Trekking
Check your bucket list with this amazing Safari which is tailored to give you a feel of five of Uganda’s Wild Parks, with this you are assured of viewing a number of animals which include the Zebras of Lake Mburo, The chance to see the Mountain Gorillas of Bwindi, Chimpanzees, Zebras and Antelope herds in Lake Mburo, the tree-climbing lions of Queen Elizabeth National Park’s Ishasha Sector and a day in between to relax and enjoy the wildlife.
Highlights
Visited Places:
* Kampala
* MURCHISON FALLS NATIONAL PARK
* KIBALE NATIONAL PARK
* QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK
* BWINDI NATIONAL PARK
* LAKE MBURO NATIONAL PARK
Travel Experience:
Wildlife watching (viewing lions, giraffes, hartebeest, buffalo, elephants, and many more)
Bird watching
Game drives
Gorilla trek
Chimpanzees
Local cuisine
Boat ride
Waterfalls
Walking/Hike
Tour Start
Kampala
Tour End
Entebbe
Flights
• Arrival: Day01 before 4pm (Flexible)
• Return: Day09 anytime after 7pm
Airport: Entebbe International Airport (EBB)
Itinerary
Day01
Kampala City
Day02
Murchison Falls NP
Day03
Murchison Falls NP
Day04
Kibale National Park
Day05
Queen Elizabeth national park
Day06
Queen Elizabeth NP
Day07
Bwindi National park
Day08
gorilla trekking - Lake Mburo NP
Day09
Lake Mburo NP - Entebbe Airport
Cost:
$3690 (Double Occupancy)
$4190 (Single Supplement)
Inclusions
Price Includes
* Park fees (For non-residents)
* Gorilla permits (One per person, non-resident)
* Chimp permits (One per person, non-resident)
* All activities (Unless labeled as optional)
* All accommodation (Unless listed as upgrade)
* A professional driver/guide
* All transportation (Unless labeled as optional)
* All Taxes/VAT
* Roundtrip airport transfer
* Meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
* Drinks (As specified in the day-by-day section)
Price Excludes
* International flights (From/to home)
* Tips (Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
* Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
* Travel Insurance
————————————————
For detailed itinerary and to reserve your seat follow the link below:
[https://www.bucketlistgrouptravel.com/tour/uganda-9-days-murchison-falls-big-5-chimps-gorillas-trekking/](https://www.bucketlistgrouptravel.com/tour/uganda-9-days-murchison-falls-big-5-chimps-gorillas-trekking/)
Questions?
Text / Call - 2023787696 - Himanshu - Organizer
Sunday Salsa Bachata Latin Night
Please join SalsaNow weekly at Sunday Latin Night at The Original Cancun Cantina.
Come experience Sundays at The Original Cancun Cantina with SalsaNow. Baltimore's largest dance floor and a favorite club for many years. Dance lessons start at 7:00 pm for beginner level, and at 7:45 pm for intermediate level. Enjoy a weekly rotation of area's best DJs as they play music starting at 8:30 pm until closing. We all have a lot of fun here and we hope you will join us every Sunday for a classy casual and very friendly salsa night experience.
Lesson Schedule:
7:00 PM Salsa Basics for beginners
7:45 Pm Salsa Patterns for intermediates
Cost: $10
The Original Cancun Cantina is located conveniently just off I-295 and I-95, close to the Baltimore Washington Airport with plenty of convenient free parking at 7501 Old Telegraph Road, Hanover, MD 21076
🌸 Easter in Bloom: Brunch & A Spring Escape at Meadowlark Gardens🌸
Join us for an Easter brunch at Matchbox in Mclean followed by a springtime escape at the beautiful Meadowlark Botanical Gardens.
⭐️Brunch starts at 10AM.
📍Matchbox address: 1340 Chain Bridge Rd, McLean, VA 22101
💐Garden Tour will start after we finish the brunch, depending on when we finish brunch, but projecting a start time of 12:30pm. Will keep everyone posted here in the comments.
🐣Let’s celebrate Easter at Meadowlark Gardens surrounded by peaceful lakes, winding garden paths, and vibrant blooms — without the overwhelming crowds.
We may also get a chance to see beautiful Cherry Blossoms throughout the garden.
✨ Open space to stroll and take photos
✨ Quiet corners for reflection and conversation
✨ Beautiful landscaped gardens and waterfront views
✨ A relaxed, unhurried atmosphere
💲entrance fee(pay at the visitor center upon arrival):
Age 18 - 59 ----9.00
Age 60 and over ----5.00
This is your chance to truly experience spring. Soft petals drifting in the breeze, sunlight shimmering on the water, and room to pause and soak it all in.
Let’s trade the hustle for harmony and experience the season that way its meant to be enjoyed.
If you RSVP and your plans change you must remove your RSVP 48 hours before the event. No-shows are strongly discouraged and may be removed from the group based on the organizer's discretion.
Backpacking Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Sundays In The Park series
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.
National Arboretum: East Side
Questions/lost? Call 240-447-4796
Meeting place - https://maps.app.goo.gl/MQDKDrnVosSTp7Z69
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington-dc/national-arboretum-east-side
2.8mi Length
229ft Elevation gain
1–1.5hr Estimated time
Loop
This route is mostly paved roadway but there are more natural areas. The National Arboretum is 446 acres.
Easter Sunday Late Brunch-Patio Dining
Let's visit my favorite Balkan/German restaurant in Old T. In my humble opinion, they have the best schnitzel in this area! They may have a special Easter menu.
If there's interest, we could go to a movie afterwards.
[MENU | old-house-cosmo](https://www.oldhousecosmopolitan.com/menu-2)
Meaningful Conversation and Coffee: Northside Social Arlington
Higher Grounds – Arlington is part of a growing network of gatherings where we create space for thoughtful, authentic dialogue about what matters most. Whether we’re exploring the nature of happiness, the challenges and possibilities of midlife, spirituality, culture, capitalism, parenting, or the role of art and travel in a meaningful life, every conversation is shaped by the people in the room.
There’s no set leader or rigid agenda—just a shared commitment to listen as much as we speak. We start with brief introductions focused on what makes you you (not your LinkedIn bio), then dive straight into whatever is on people’s minds. The direction of each meetup emerges organically, making every event unique.
MANDATORY: PLEASE REVIEW OUR COMMUNITY GUIDELINES IN THE GROUP DESCRIPTION. Everyone is expected to engage in respectful conversations and listen deeply as well as share. We have a zero tolerance policy of sexual harassment and hate speech.
Come ready to share, reflect, and connect with others in Arlington who are also seeking deeper conversations.
Suggested Questions: Life Stages & Transitions
* What did you think you'd have figured out by now that you're still completely winging?
* When did you realize your parents' advice was for a world that no longer exists?
* What are you finally old enough to stop pretending to care about?
Suggested Questions: Identity After the Roles
* Who are you when nobody needs anything from you?
* What dream keeps resurfacing even though the "practical" time has passed?
* How do you handle having the freedom you always said you wanted?
Suggested Questions: AI & Being Human
* What human experiences will AI never truly understand?
* If machines handled all your have-to's, what would you actually do?
* What becomes more precious as everything becomes automated?
Suggested Questions: Belief & Meaning
* What certainties have you given up, and what rushed in to fill that space?
* How has knowing someone who died changed how you live?
* What do you believe now that would shock your younger self?
Suggested Questions: The Modern Psyche
* What anxiety do you carry that previous generations didn't have?
* Which of your survival strategies are you ready to retire?
* What uncomfortable truth about happiness did it take you years to accept?
Suggested Questions: Work & Purpose
* When did you stop believing that your job would complete you?
* What would you do for work if money and status weren't factors?
* How has your definition of "making it" changed over the years?
Suggested Questions: Relationships & Connection
* What relationship dynamic do you keep recreating, and why?
* When did you realize your parents were just people trying their best?
* What kind of loneliness doesn't go away even when you're with others?
Suggested Questions: Time & Mortality
* What are you running out of time to say or do?
* How differently do you spend your time knowing it's finite?
* What will you regret not trying, even if you fail?
Suggested Questions: Society & Culture
* What social convention do you follow even though it makes no sense?
* Which generation do you understand least, and what might you be missing?
* What aspect of how we live now will seem insane in 20 years?
Suggested Questions: Personal Philosophy
* What rule for life did you create after learning something the hard way?
* When did you stop believing that everyone else had it figured out?
* What paradox about life have you learned to live with?
CANCELLED
Sunday Skate - Skate the Streets of America's Original 13 Colonies
WE ARE SORRY TO ANNOUNCE THAT WE ARE CANCELLING TODAY'S SKATE DUE TO EXPECTED HAVE RAIN
Since Freedom Plaza is closed for renovations, we meet at the corner of 14th and E st NW, right across form the Willard Hotel.
An early America's 250th Birthday-themed skate lead by Ian!
We're skating all throughout the city on the streets that share their names with the original 13 colonies of America. We'll start by taking Pennsylvania Ave towards the Capitol. We'll move around the Capitol from the West side to the East side, using Delaware Ave. From there, we'll then head towards Providence Park, then zigzag to Lincoln Park using South Carolina Ave, Penn Ave (again!), and North Carolina Ave. We'll go counter-clockwise around Lincoln Park and head towards Union Station, using Massachusetts Ave and Maryland Ave. We'll continue past Union Station, then take New Jersey Ave to K St. After a short trip on K St, we'll take 7th St for awhile where it eventually turns into Georgia Ave. We'll then go East on V St before taking New Hampshire Ave to Dupont Circle. Then, we'll take Connecticut Ave until a right turn on M St before returning to New Hampshire Ave and taking that to its end. From there, we'll spend a small bit on Virginia Ave before a nice stretch on G St until we hit the White House. We'll then cut up to Rhode Island Ave using 17th St. Then, we take Rhode Island until 9th St, taking that until a right turn on New York Ave. After that, we'll take a quick downhill on 15th St and we're back where we started.
We'll be skating in the road for all of this skate. Some of the streets we're on have bike lanes. Hills are all manageable on this route, with no incline larger than 3-4%. We'll have breaks/re-groups at the East side of the Capitol, Stanton Park, V St/Georgia Ave, Dupont Circle, and Farragut Square.
The route:
[https://onthegomap.com/s/g1m35k66](https://onthegomap.com/s/g1m35k66?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExSUo1MTN0VHRJQ3AwRVNOT3NydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5JNFSYeV_dpFkAJHYuOByGwCxjU4vAJuq6VloCjyoHNrMhALecmKBfG0HzJQ_aem_iyw2X5C-7XPcO5-vTJX0yQ)
Meetup at 10:00, roll at 10:10!
See you there.
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 Sunday!
Social Sips & Bites — Rockville Civic Center Park + Dinner 🌿 Dinner
Join us after the walk for dinner at Royal Durbar Kitchen, a cozy Nepalese spot known for its rich flavors and warm atmosphere. Come hungry and ready to unwind with great food and even better company.
Meaningful Conversation and Coffee - Northside Social Falls Church
**Join us in Falls Church for conversations that go beyond small talk.**
Higher Grounds – Falls Church is where this growing network of gatherings began: a space for thoughtful, authentic dialogue about what matters most. Whether we’re exploring the nature of happiness, the challenges and possibilities of midlife, spirituality, culture, capitalism, parenting, or the role of art and travel in a meaningful life, every conversation is shaped by the people in the room.
There’s no set leader or rigid agenda—just a shared commitment to listen as much as we speak. We start with brief introductions focused on what makes you *you* (not your LinkedIn bio), then dive straight into whatever is on people’s minds. The direction of each meetup emerges organically, making every event unique.
MANDATORY: PLEASE REVIEW OUR COMMUNITY GUIDELINES IN THE GROUP DESCRIPTION. Everyone is expected to engage in respectful conversations and listen deeply as well as share. We have a zero tolerance policy of sexual harassment and hate speech.
Come ready to share, reflect, and connect with others in Falls Church who are also seeking deeper conversations.
**Suggested Questions: Life Stages & Transitions**
1. What did you think you'd have figured out by now that you're still completely winging?
2. When did you realize your parents' advice was for a world that no longer exists?
3. What are you finally old enough to stop pretending to care about?
**Suggested Questions: Identity After the Roles**
1. Who are you when nobody needs anything from you?
2. What dream keeps resurfacing even though the "practical" time has passed?
3. How do you handle having the freedom you always said you wanted?
**Suggested Questions: AI & Being Human**
1. What human experiences will AI never truly understand?
2. If machines handled all your have-to's, what would you actually do?
3. What becomes more precious as everything becomes automated?
**Suggested Questions: Belief & Meaning**
1. What certainties have you given up, and what rushed in to fill that space?
2. How has knowing someone who died changed how you live?
3. What do you believe now that would shock your younger self?
**Suggested Questions: The Modern Psyche**
1. What anxiety do you carry that previous generations didn't have?
2. Which of your survival strategies are you ready to retire?
3. What uncomfortable truth about happiness did it take you years to accept?
**Suggested Questions: Work & Purpose**
1. When did you stop believing that your job would complete you?
2. What would you do for work if money and status weren't factors?
3. How has your definition of "making it" changed over the years?
**Suggested Questions: Relationships & Connection**
1. What relationship dynamic do you keep recreating, and why?
2. When did you realize your parents were just people trying their best?
3. What kind of loneliness doesn't go away even when you're with others?
**Suggested Questions: Time & Mortality**
1. What are you running out of time to say or do?
2. How differently do you spend your time knowing it's finite?
3. What will you regret not trying, even if you fail?
**Suggested Questions: Society & Culture**
1. What social convention do you follow even though it makes no sense?
2. Which generation do you understand least, and what might you be missing?
3. What aspect of how we live now will seem insane in 20 years?
**Suggested Questions: Personal Philosophy**
1. What rule for life did you create after learning something the hard way?
2. When did you stop believing that everyone else had it figured out
3. What paradox about life have you learned to live with?
Backpacking Events Near You
Connect with your local Backpacking community
Hike Bexley - UPDATED DATE
Meet at Wolfe Park parking lot by tennis courts. We willl walk along Alum Creek trail, through Jeffrey Mansion Park then along Bexley neighborhood and back.
Optional lunch at Trolley District.
Movie Night - You, Me & Tuscany
.
🎬 Movie Night
You, Me & Tuscany
Join us for a cinematic escape to the sun-drenched vineyards and romantic landscapes of Italy as we gather to watch You, Me & Tuscany, the new feel-good romantic comedy starring Halle Bailey and Regé‑Jean Page.
Set against the breathtaking beauty of Tuscany, the film follows a spirited young woman whose impulsive decision to stay in a Tuscan villa leads to unexpected adventure, heartfelt moments, and a romance she never saw coming.
Expect an evening filled with:
🍿 A beautiful cinematic escape to Italy
🍷 Relaxed social vibes and great conversation
✨ A feel-good romantic story perfect for movie lovers
Whether you’re a fan of romantic comedies, stunning travel settings, or simply enjoy experiencing great films with great people, this will be a perfect night to unwind and connect.
Come ready to relax, laugh, and be transported to Tuscany for the evening.
Follow Black Love & Friends on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/share/17oXQtZz36/) and [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/blackloveandfriends?igsh=djVrYnhqeG5nMjBx) to stay connected and be the first to hear about upcoming dimnets, social gatherings, and other exciting member-only events.
Hike Blacklick Woods and The Canopy. Optional lunch after.
Over time I'm hoping to organize a hike to all the Franklin County Metro Parks. This is the first one so if you're interested jump in!
We'll start with the Canopy Walk, a cool feature of this park. Climb 100 stairs to the top - or take the elevator if stairs aren't your thing. At the top there are a bunch of things to play on - a rope bridge, a fireman pole that we can slide down - and more! About fifteen minutes there and we'll head to the natural trail, Buttonbush, Maple and Beech Trail for 2.2 miles then do a 1.7 mile loop on the paved Greenway Trail. We'll be passing our cars as we transition if you only want to do the first loop, or the second loop. Pace of around 3.5 mph but no one left behind.
If there is an interest we can grab lunch nearby afterward.
CMG Gives Back: Serve Brunch at FAITH MISSION GRANT KITCHEN!
Join us as we get together to get together to help those in need at this CMG Gives Back event! We have a great little community of Movie Group friends so rather than see a movie this time, we’ll help “create a better world” by helping serve those in need. Here are complete details and our plan for this event:
FAITH MISSION – GRANT KITCHEN: The Faith Mission kitchen and dining room serves residents 3 meals a day, every day of the year. For this event, our group will help prepare food, serve meals, assist residents in the dining room, wash dishes, and clean surfaces.
PLAN: We will be preparing / serving / cleaning for BRUNCH from 10:30am to 12:30pm and have space for a total of 7 volunteers. Please arrive at 10:20am and wear closed-toe shoes and long pants.
LOCATION: Faith Mission – Grant Kitchen is located at 245 N. Grant Ave. Enter the kitchen at Dock 1 (in the back of the building), indicated in the attached map. On-site parking in the adjacent lot and street parking is available in the surrounding area. Below are some links / attachments with additional info/details:
IMPORTANT REMINDER: Our group will be providing all of the volunteers on this day so a firm RSVP count is essential. Please only sign up if you are certain you’ll be able to attend. If something unavoidable comes up, please try to update your RSVP no later than one week prior to the event. With few exceptions, no shows or cancelations within 1
week of the event will not be eligible for future CMG Gives Back events. I appreciate your understanding as we try to ensure the agencies have the volunteers needed to provide the essential services they provide to the vulnerable population they serve. Our Partner Agency for this event is Lutheran Social Services! A huge THANK YOU to all of YOU for volunteering at this (and any of our previous) CMG Gives Back events!
Should be a good/fun/meaningful time together, Dan
Hike Gertrude S. Lawrence Hoover Nature Preserve near Galena
This trail is a meandering path through the woods. There will be some overlooks and a couple stops at the creek as well as time along a waterway. It will not be a fast paced hike. There is some elevation change and uneven terrain. I will be using poles just to be safe! Will aim to get in about three miles.
Optional lunch after if there is an interest.






























