Backyard Vegetable Gardening
Meet other local people interested in Backyard Vegetable Gardening: share experiences, inspire and encourage each other! Join a Backyard Vegetable Gardening group.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out backyard vegetable gardening events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the backyard vegetable gardening events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find backyard vegetable gardening events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Backyard Vegetable Gardening Events Today
Join in-person Backyard Vegetable Gardening events happening right now
MP(Tue)-Grass Volleyball: BB/A (Holmes Run)
## Details - Please read all below before you sign up
**Cost:** Free
**Court Type:** Outdoor Grass
**Level:** BB/A
**Transportation:** Parking will be right by the grass.
**What to bring:** at least 3 bottles of water and a ball/net if you have one.
**10 persons per net max**
**Host's Philosophy on this event:**
The purpose of this meetup is to create a fun and supportive environment where we can improve our skills, enjoy competitive games, and connect socially. While we do aim to play seriously and challenge ourselves, the focus is more on growth and enjoyment than simply winning at all costs. That’s why the title doesn’t include “competitive” or “social”—we want a healthy mix of both. We do expect a mindset geared toward learning and getting better over time. That said, this event isn’t intended for total beginners; an understanding of the game is expected so that everyone can contribute to meaningful and engaging matches. The host holds the right to remove you from the game if they believe that you are at a C level(absolute beginner). if you can't pass to the setter for example, you are a beginner.
**Skill Level:**
1. **If you want to know your level, please see the link below:**
[Smiley Social Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/edit)
**YouTube:**
The games may be recorded and uploaded to our channel here:
Let the host know if you have an issue with this. [Youtube](https://www.youtube.com/@mp02626)
**ATTENDANCE:**
**Player Selection:** Regulars > Your Vibe > Skills > \*Flaky-ratio (your attendance ratio) > New Members
\*If you have attended 3 events and dropped 6, you may or may not be invited. Anyone with a Flaky-ratio -.50 or lower.
If you have a recent no-show, you may not be invited.
The host takes attendance very seriously. Please remove yourself from the event (if you can't make it) as early as possible to allow others to join. You will be marked as a ***no-show*** if you don't show up to the event.
[Smiley Social Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg/edit)
**Q&A**
*-Bringing your dog or cat is welcome and encouraged.*
-Can I come if I don't know how to play? \*No, you may not. The host does teach a beginner's volleyball class that you may attend on Saturdays.
-Can I be late or leave early? *The host expects you to be there **on time** and leave on time. If you need to come late or leave early, please let the host know ahead of time.*
-Can I come even if I am not on the going list? \*No, sorry
-How can I improve my Flaky-ration? *You can attend other Smiley events. Commit to showing up.*
-Why are new members accepted last? *Because they are the most flaky.*
-NO SMOKING (anything)
**Smiley Social Important Links:**
1. [Group Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg)
2. [Liability Waiver](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco)
3. [Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/)
Boards Games @ Third Hill Brewing Co.
Come out to [Third Hill Brewing Company](https://www.thirdhillbrewing.com/) and play some board games! Serving food with their variety of drinks so come and fuel up for the games.
Learn about new games, play games, meet new friends, and have a good time! All ages and levels of experience/knowledge of games are welcome as long as you have a willingness to learn and/or teach your games.
Host will provide some games but as always, you are welcome/encouraged to bring your own (recommended you know them and/or ready to teach them).
Please be aware that there is no direct parking but there is nearby parking garages.
**NTBG** is a safe environment for all to have fun. Bullying/harassment is not tolerated.
Wunder Garten
Brisk 3- to 4-mile urban hike starting and ending at Wunder Garten. We will hike through and by various monuments and gardens before returning for drinks and food at Wunder Garten. Closest metro NOMA-Gallaudet U.
Rebuilding Seattle - (Board Game Night)
**Please Note:** This game has limited slots, and you must RSVP. If the event is full, please signup for the Waitlist, and you will be moved up as people update their RSVPs.
In ***Rebuilding Seattle***, you're responsible for managing the zoning and expansion of a major neighborhood! Each round your population grows, and you can either build a new building, expand into a new suburb, activate an event, or build a landmark, before earning profit based on your neighborhood's commerce. You'll buy building types from a shared market, looking to find shapes that fit your grid and types that fit your strategy. Triggering citywide events can change the tide of the game, offering points, money, and expansions for the players ready for it. You can even enact laws to give yourself the advantage! At the end of the game, whoever's neighborhood has earned the most points wins.
Light Refreshments are provided.
Please RSVP so we can account for Snacks.
Doubles Volleyball, BB+ Level @ Bluemont
Let's get together to play some fun BB level Quads games at Bluemont.
**Format**: Doubles
**COST**: FREE
**Court Type**: Outdoor grass
**Minimum Skill Requirements**: Intermediate-BB (click [here](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/mobilebasic) for details)
\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-
**Smiley Social documents:**
1. [Group Rules ](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg)
1. [Liability Waiver ](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco)
1. [Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/)
Let's Get Growing - Apartment Sized Edible Gardens: Montclair
Join Virginia Cooperative Extension Master Gardeners and the Little Seed Library Coalition to discover how to grow fresh herbs and vegetables, even in small spaces.
Backyard Vegetable Gardening Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
VSDC Biking - Bethesda to DC
Please join us for the first ride of 2026 from Bethesda to Hains Point and back.
We will be starting from the [Park and Ride for Capital Crescent](https://maps.app.goo.gl/BKo6KKeexQPENXHEA) trail in Bethesda. The meeting spot provides ample free car parking, and also it is convenient to get to from Bethesda Metro. Going to Georgetown will be a piece of cake (it is downhill). Coming back we will be digesting the cakes we eat.
Before signing up, please make sure you will be able to sustain at least 10 mph average speed for this lengthy ride.
Meeting point: [Park and Ride for CC Trail](https://maps.app.goo.gl/q8icfVLC4mdfagQj6)
Date: Saturday, April 25 9:00am
Route: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/njF8xXDfrH8kvVP96](https://maps.app.goo.gl/njF8xXDfrH8kvVP96)
Length: 24 miles
Difficulty level: strenuous (due to distance)
Elevation change: 420 ft up & down
Time: \~3 hours at moderate pace
Pace: moderate \~10 mph
Biking surface: paved
Route type: mostly paved trails, some roads and sidewalks
Metro accessible: yes (with an additional 1 mile of ride)
Snack spot: we will be stopping in Georgetown for a snack. Multiple vegetarian options available:
\- Chaia Tacos
\- South Block
Food/Water: Bring your own vegan snacks and (non-alcoholic) beverage to enjoy. Please carry plenty of water!
Weather: we will not be riding in rain or windy conditions so stay tuned for Comments on this page.
*For important updates, regularly monitor the "Comments" section on this page (below).*
***Don't be a no show! If your plans change, update your RSVP.***
*Please also view and abide by the RULES listed below*
RULES
* Pets are not allowed
* Use of intoxicants such as alcohol, cigarettes and/or illegal substances is banned during this event.
* Practice safe biking habits including:
* Wearing a bike helmet
* Keeping safe distance between each other (bikes don't have brake lights and tailgating can easily result in crashes)
* Avoid side by side riding unless the road gives us ample opportunity
**VSDC: More Than A Meetup**
We are so glad to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we enjoy seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](http://vsdc.org/) is a nonprofit organization with membership benefits?
With VSDC membership, you will save money at area restaurants and businesses, attend VSDC member-only events, and, most importantly, support us as a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle.
The VSDC membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Become a member of VSDC](https://vsdc.org/membership/).
**Liability Waiver and Code of Conduct**
When you sign up to attend, you automatically acknowledge [VSDC's Liability Waiver](https://vsdc.org/activity-waiver/) and commit to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/).
**VSDC. Creating communities. For your health, the animals, and the planet.**
Advanced Beginners Volleyball @Quincy Park
Let’s play grass volleyball!
This meetup is intended for advanced beginners and above—please review Smiley Social’s **[skill levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/edit?pli=1&tab=t.0)** before RSVPing. Understanding your own skill level helps create balanced activities where everyone feels challenged appropriately.
* **Priority:** This event is not on first-come first-serve. Upon registering, your name will appear on a waitlist and will moved to the Going or Not Going lists thereafter. Higher-skill players may be prioritized.
* **Cancellations:** Un-RSVP before 9:00 AM the day of the event; late cancellations may count as no-shows and affect future participation.
* **Bring:** a volleyball, water, and sunglasses.
* **Weather:** In case of inclement/uncertain weather, event may be canceled as late as 9:00 AM day of event. Updates will be sent via Meetup private message and posted in Comments section.
Board Game Night @ Board Room in Clarendon, Wed, 6:30-10:00
**NEW GAME LOCATION at The Board Room**
Let's play board games. Not the ones your ancestors played but the really cool ones of the new millennium. We play everything from fun, social games to light to heavy strategy games.
Don't know how to play? Not a problem - we're happy to teach. It's a great chance to learn new games or play your favorites with non-competitive people who like to laugh. You can build a railroad, eradicate a plague, or explore the far reaches of the galaxy in one evening.
While many will bring their own games, you can show up gameless and still play.
We play at the Board Room in Clarendon on Wednesday from 6:30-10:00. It's within walking distance from the Clarendon metro. **Find us in the far left by the fermentation tanks.** If that area is reserved for a private event, look for us in the middle. Look for a group that has containers and carrying bags with multiple games.
We're very fortunate to have this great venue for our game nights and they take care of us for 3-1/2 hours, so please spend a minimum of $10 on food or drink and tip generously (at the very least $2, even if 20% of your bill would be $1). Thanks!
Beginner(+) Level: Casual Brunch Group - The Royal Restaurant
**Casual Brunch Group (CBG, get it?): A series of weekend rides with brunch as a feature.** Some rides will be beginner rides (shorter), some will be medium (longer), all will be Casual pace. **Bring a bike lock.**
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
**The Ride: Summary**
**(Must Read)**
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
* RIDE NAME: The Royal Restaurant
* START LOC: Shirlington Library
* START GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/YRwKLeAPqq6mHZaT6](https://goo.gl/maps/YRwKLeAPqq6mHZaT6)
* START PARKING: Any Garage
* ARRIVAL: 11:00am
* SPEECH: 11:15 am
* ROLLING: 11:30am
* LEVEL: Beginner(+)
* PACE: 10-12+ mph (casual)
* DISTANCE: approx 14 miles
* TERRAIN: Paved Trail, Street Riding
* RIDEWITHGPS ROUTE:
CBG_BRUNCH_ROYAL_2026
TBD
**NOTES:**
* Bring a spare tube.
* Bring a bike lock.
* Brunch in the middle of the ride: [https://royalrestaurantva.com/](https://royalrestaurantva.com/)
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
**The Ride: Detail**
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
Route To Be Determined :)
**Please note, we will enjoy a nice leisurely meal (no rushing).**
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
**The Meeting Spot:**
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
**Shirlington Library**
4200 Campbell Ave
Arlington, VA 22206
GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/y1K7iBorEgsTWBpaA](https://goo.gl/maps/y1K7iBorEgsTWBpaA)
We will meet in front of the Shirlington Library by the fountains.
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
**The Ride After The Ride:**
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
No ride after the ride since we will be stopping during the ride at:
**Royal Restaurant**
730 North Asaph St.
Alexandria, VA 2314
(703) 548-1616
[https://royalrestaurantva.com/](https://royalrestaurantva.com/)
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
**Ride Level Chart**
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
NoVA CBG tries to accommodate all levels of cyclists by offering different types/levels of rides. We just ask that you come to the ride that suits your current riding ability the best.
* Introductory Level: If you haven't ridden a bike in a number of years (or are uncertain of your abilities on a bicycle).
* Beginner Level: You can ride for 10+ miles at a pace of 10+ to 12+ mph with potentially minor hills involved.
* Medium Level: You can ride for 20+ miles at a pace of 13+ to 15+ mph with potentially moderate hills involved.
* Advanced Level: You can ride for 20++ miles at a pace of 15+ mph with potentially major hills involved.
Both Medium and Advanced Levels might require handling various challenges such as reading cue sheets, using a Garmin or navigation app, night riding, out of town travel, or any other odd cycling situations.
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
**The Fine Print:**
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
An RSVP of 'YES' is your digital signature and means you have read and understood MEETUP.com's:
* "Terms of Service : Section 6. Release" found at https://www.meetup.com/terms/
* NOVA-CBG's "Assumption of Risk Agreement" found @ https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/pages/1942951/NOVA-CBG_Waiver/
* NoVA CBG's "COVID Policy" found @ http://bit.ly/2021_NoVACBG_COVID19_POLICY
Helmets are required to participate in all NOVA-CBG rides. All riders ride at their own risk and with the understanding that cycling is an inherently dangerous activity. When coming to the meetup you do so voluntarily and are ready and able to participate in the ride as described under the conditions of the day. Be on time for the "pre-ride" preparation. If you do not attend the pre-ride preparation you will not be allowed to participate on the ride. There are NO exceptions to the above.
MP(THU)-Grass Volleyball: BB/A (Holmes Run)
## Details - Please read all below before you sign up
**Cost:** Free
**Court Type:** Outdoor Grass
**Level:** BB/A
**Transportation:** Parking will be right by the grass.
**What to bring:** at least 3 bottles of water and a ball/net if you have one.
**10 persons per net max**
**Host's Philosophy on this event:**
The purpose of this meetup is to create a fun and supportive environment where we can improve our skills, enjoy competitive games, and connect socially. While we do aim to play seriously and challenge ourselves, the focus is more on growth and enjoyment than simply winning at all costs. That’s why the title doesn’t include “competitive” or “social”—we want a healthy mix of both. We do expect a mindset geared toward learning and getting better over time. That said, this event isn’t intended for total beginners; an understanding of the game is expected so that everyone can contribute to meaningful and engaging matches. The host holds the right to remove you from the game if they believe that you are at a C level(absolute beginner). if you can't pass to the setter for example, you are a beginner.
**Skill Level:**
1. **If you want to know your level, please see the link below:**
[Smiley Social Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/edit)
**YouTube:**
The games may be recorded and uploaded to our channel here:
Let the host know if you have an issue with this. [Youtube](https://www.youtube.com/@mp02626)
**ATTENDANCE:**
**Player Selection:** Regulars > Your Vibe > Skills > \*Flaky-ratio (your attendance ratio) > New Members
\*If you have attended 3 events and dropped 6, you may or may not be invited. Anyone with a Flaky-ratio -.50 or lower.
If you have a recent no-show, you may not be invited.
The host takes attendance very seriously. Please remove yourself from the event (if you can't make it) as early as possible to allow others to join. You will be marked as a ***no-show*** if you don't show up to the event.
[Smiley Social Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg/edit)
**Q&A**
*-Bringing your dog or cat is welcome and encouraged.*
-Can I come if I don't know how to play? \*No, you may not. The host does teach a beginner's volleyball class that you may attend on Saturdays.
-Can I be late or leave early? *The host expects you to be there **on time** and leave on time. If you need to come late or leave early, please let the host know ahead of time.*
-Can I come even if I am not on the going list? \*No, sorry
-How can I improve my Flaky-ration? *You can attend other Smiley events. Commit to showing up.*
-Why are new members accepted last? *Because they are the most flaky.*
-NO SMOKING (anything)
**Smiley Social Important Links:**
1. [Group Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg)
2. [Liability Waiver](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco)
3. [Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/)
Backyard Vegetable Gardening Events Near You
Connect with your local Backyard Vegetable Gardening community
Sip and Learn: Taste Fresh Herbs & Learn Indoor Gardening with LED Grow Lights!
Calling all foodies and gardening enthusiasts! Join us for an exclusive **Sip and Learn** event where you'll get to taste fresh, live herbs while learning how to grow your own food indoors year-round. 🌱
**Clift** will demonstrate how easy it is to grow more than **75 pounds of food** every year using **LED grow lights**—all from the comfort of your home. Whether you live in an apartment or have limited outdoor space, this event will show you how you can maximize small areas to grow delicious, pesticide-free produce.
### **What to Expect**:
* **Live Herb Tasting**: Sample fresh herbs like basil, mint, and thyme, and discover their flavorful uses in your favorite dishes or drinks.
* **Grow 75+ Pounds of Food**: Learn how you can grow your own fresh food year-round indoors with minimal setup.
* **Indoor Gardening Benefits**: From saving on grocery bills to having pesticide-free herbs and vegetables at your fingertips, we’ll cover the perks of indoor gardening.
### **Why Attend?**
* **Perfect for small spaces**—no backyard needed!
* Gain expert tips on indoor gardening and sustainable food production.
* A fun, engaging way to explore the benefits of fresh herbs and veggies for your meals.
* Connect with like-minded individuals passionate about urban farming and sustainability.
**How to Join**:
Simply RSVP here to secure your spot! Bring your favorite drink or meal to pair with our live herbs. 🌿
Don’t miss out on this chance to sip, taste, and learn!
Visit **[indoorgardenmarket.com](https://iwantagreenthumb.com)** to learn more, and RSVP now for a fun afternoon of herbs, learning, and indoor gardening!
Thank you,
Clift
---
Chief Community Grower at indoorgardenmarket.com
Arlington Food Growing Event: Learn Indoor Gardening with LED Grow Lights!
Calling all foodies and gardening enthusiasts! Join us for an exclusive **Indoor Food Growing Learn**ing event where you'll get to taste fresh, live herbs while learning how to grow your own food indoors year-round.
**Clift** will demonstrate how easy it is to grow more than **75 pounds of food** every year using **LED grow lights**—all from the comfort of your home.
Whether you live in an apartment or have limited outdoor space, this event will show you how you can maximize small areas to grow delicious, pesticide-free produce.
### **What to Expect**:
* **Live Herb Tasting**: Sample fresh herbs like basil, mint, and thyme, and discover their flavorful uses in your favorite dishes or drinks.
* **Grow 75+ Pounds of Food**: Learn how you can grow your own fresh food year-round indoors with minimal setup.
* **Indoor Gardening Benefits**: From saving on grocery bills to having pesticide-free herbs and vegetables at your fingertips, we’ll cover the perks of indoor gardening.
### **Why Attend?**
* **Perfect for small spaces**—no backyard needed!
* Gain expert tips on indoor gardening and sustainable food production.
* A fun, engaging way to explore the benefits of fresh herbs and veggies for your meals.
* Connect with like-minded individuals passionate about urban farming and sustainability.
**How to Join**:
Simply RSVP here to secure your spot!
Visit **[indoorgardenmarket.com](https://iwantagreenthumb.com)** to learn more, and RSVP now for a fun afternoon of herbs, learning, and indoor gardening!
Thank you,
Clift
---
Chief Community Grower at indoorgardenmarket.com
Fairfax Home Board Game Fun!
Welcome to the Fairfax Home Board Game Group. I have been running this group for 3+ years, every other Saturday. The group has evolved since I first started, so I thought I should update the description to more closely describe how it runs today.
This group is hosted at my home in Fairfax and primarily plays hosted games, meaning a player owns the game and will teach others at the table how to play. Below are some tips for a great first visit and what to expect.
***
**Tips for the Best Experience for Newcomers**
1. Check the event messages periodically, and more frequently as the event gets closer. If you see someone hosting a game you are interested in, respond to the post to reserve a space.
2. Watch a "how to play" video for the game you want to play. While the host will teach the game at the table, coming prepared will make for a better experience. Most hosts will post a link to a "how to play" video in their initial post. If you want to host a game feel free to post in the event and see if there is interest!
3. Arrive on time. Games tend to start promptly between 8:30pm and 8:45pm — I make it a rule not to wait past 8:45pm. Please also avoid arriving earlier than 8:15pm; if you get to the house before then, please wait in your car as we are usually still getting last-minute things ready. If you do arrive late you are welcome to come in, but depending on when you arrive there may not be a seat available. The last thing I want is for someone to drive all the way out only to miss the game, so please be on time! =)
***
**What to Expect & General Tips**
**Game Length** — Most games take anywhere between 2 and 3 hours, including the teach, which means you will typically only play one game per evening. Occasionally a shorter game wraps up early and that group may play a second, but that is more the exception than the rule.
**Game Difficulty** — This group primarily plays medium to complex games, and while new players are always welcome — the host will teach you at the table! — it's worth knowing what to expect before you come. If you are looking to play games like Scrabble, Monopoly, Uno, or party games, this is probably not the right event for you. In three years I have seen only two party games played and zero classic board games.
**Update Your Status** — Please be considerate of others who would like to attend but may be held back by space constraints. If you can no longer make it, update your status as soon as possible so others can attend — even if there is no waitlist. This also helps me plan seating and choose games appropriate for the number of players.
***
In between sessions, join the conversation on our Discord, where we chat about games, minis, and other game-related topics! Discord invite: [https://discord.gg/JyprPCvmMj](https://discord.gg/JyprPCvmMj)
Blockhouse Point Conservation Park and C&O Canal Towpath (Rating: B)
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.
**10 mile circuit hike with about 650 feet of elevation gain.**
***Join us for a scenic hike on the C&O Canal towpath and the forest trails of Blockhouse Point Conservation Park.***
**Description:** Starting from Lock 22 Pennyfield Lock parking lot off of River Road we will hike on the C&O Canal towpath. We will then hike to Violette's Lock and on to Riley's Lock where we'll cross the Seneca Creek Aqueduct and take a short side trip to the Seneca Mill & Quarry Ruins. We'll retrace our steps and take a lunch/snack break at Riley's Lock before heading back to Violette's Lock where we will make our way into Blockhouse Point Park. We will take several trails in the forest and stop at a couple of overlooks of the Potomac and Canal Towpath on our way back to the parking lot to complete the circuit.
This is a B hike due to the mileage, but most of the hike is level. There is one short but somewhat steep hill going up into the forest. You might want to bring hiking poles if you normally use them on hills. The overlooks are short out and backs and descend slightly from the forest area. **These rocky overlooks offer great views of the Potomac!**
The pace will be about 2.5 mph.
There are porta-johns at the locks.
**Bring**: Adequate water/hydration, snacks/lunch, and sturdy hiking shoes since there are some rocky areas and tree roots with a lot of leaf coverage on the ground. There is one small stream that is easily stepped across.
**Fee:** There is no park fee.
**Dogs are welcom**e. NVHC Dog policy: [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy)
Meet at the trailhead parking lot 15 minutes early to allow everyone to sign in and get ready to hike at 9:00am.
**Blockhouse Point Park**:
[https://montgomeryparks.org/parks-and-trails/blockhouse-point-conservation-park-trails/](https://montgomeryparks.org/parks-and-trails/blockhouse-point-conservation-park-trails/)
**C&O Canal Pennyfield, Violette's, and Riley's Locks:**
[https://birdersguidemddc.org/site/co-canal-pennyfield-violettes-rileys-locks/](https://birdersguidemddc.org/site/co-canal-pennyfield-violettes-rileys-locks/)
**C&O Canal Pennyfield Lock:**
[https://www.canaltrust.org/pyv/lock-22-parking/](https://www.canaltrust.org/pyv/lock-22-parking/)
**Meeting Place Instructions:** We will meet at Pennyfield Lock, Lock 22 parking area on Pennyfield Lock Road. **GPS 39.053641, -77.288893**. See attached directions in the link.
After turning onto River Road west from I-495, **Pennyfield Lock Road** is about 8.5 miles on your left. Keep your eyes open and look for the sign for the turnoff onto Pennyfield Rd intersection. Proceed to the end of Pennyfield Road. I will be in a white Nissan SUV with the rear hatch open.
**Post hike rehydration TBD.**
If you have questions, please message me here or call/text me at 202-528-0456. If you text me, please include your name.


























