Beach Walking

Join us for a morning Sunday Walk - the perfect way to ease into your Sunday with fresh air, great company, and relaxed vibes. We’ll take on a 2–3 mile walk along the beautiful Capital Crescent Trail, enjoying nature, conversation, and that signature SSB energy. And because we know how to reward ourselves… There might be an ice cream stop after. (Okay, there probably will be.) Come walk, connect, and start your Sunday right. Let’s make this a new favorite tradition. Montgomery County parking garages in the area are free on Sunday. Metro: Bethesda Metro (0.5 miles from meeting point)

Join us for a relaxed Sunday morning walk around one of Prince George's County's most beautiful urban lakes, followed by an optional brunch nearby. 📅 When: Sunday ⏰ Start Time: 9:00 AM 📍 Meeting Point: College Park Metro Station The Hike We'll begin at College Park Metro and walk through the Paint Branch Trail system to scenic Lake Artemesia. The lake is surrounded by paved and gravel paths, wetlands, open water views, and excellent birdwatching opportunities. We'll make a full loop around the lake before returning toward College Park. The route follows mostly flat, well-maintained trails with minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for most fitness levels. Distance: Approximately 4–5 miles round trip Difficulty: Easy Pace: Moderate social pace with opportunities for photos and nature observation What to Bring Water Comfortable walking shoes Sun protection Weather-appropriate clothing Optional Brunch After the Hike Those interested can join for brunch after we return to College Park. Possible options include: Board & Brew Vigilante Coffee The Hall CP Bagels 'n Grinds Marathon Deli Please arrive a few minutes early so we can start walking at 9:00 AM. Looking forward to a morning of nature, conversation, and good food!

(Trailhead hike) Brookside Gardens is one of the hidden gems of the DC metro area. It is perhaps at its most colorful during the spring. Both hikes start at the Brookside Gardens Visitor Center and proceed through the Gardens to the Wheaton Park Nature Center. From there the moderate hikers take the Equestrian Loop Trail to the intersection of the Northwest Branch Trail. They will follow the west side of the Branch downstream to Route 29 (Colesville Rd.), turn left on the Road and then left onto the Rachel Carson Trail following the east bank of Northwest Branch upstream, joining the Wheaton Park Equestrian Trail and route back to the Brookside Nature Center. Long hikers follow the moderate route except at the Nature Center they take 3.5 miles of assorted wooded trails through Wheaton Park before joining the Northwest Branch Trail. Est.: 11 miles, <300' elevation and 8 miles, <300' elevation. Park map. Start Time: 9 AM Fare: $5 Note: Resulting in strictly enforced park 'no alcohol' rules, this year there will be an after hike picnic/pool party at co-leader Lars Larson's Silver Spring MD home 10 minutes drive from the Park. Complimentary hamburgers, veggie burgers, appropriate toppings, usual munchies, cola, and beer will be provided. What to bring? A bathing suit is recommended for a cool after hike dip. Also, there is plenty of room to park on nearby neighborhood streets. **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)

We can meet at the Capital Crescent Trailhead on Bethesda Ave by the Honda Dealership (the address I put is for the Honda Dealership, [4800 Bethesda Ave, Bethesda, MD 20814](https://maps.google.com/maps?vet=10CAAQoqAOahcKEwjIueTNruaUAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQCQ..i&pvq=CgwvZy8xMXhkam05MnIiFAoOb3VyaXNtYW4gaG9uZGEQAhgD&lqi=ChdvdXJpc21hbiBob25kYSBiZXRoZXNkYSIDiAEBSNfIpsjxgYCACForEAAQARgAGAEYAiIXb3VyaXNtYW4gaG9uZGEgYmV0aGVzZGEqBggCEAAQAZIBDGhvbmRhX2RlYWxlcuABAA&fvr=1&cs=1&um=1&ie=UTF-8&fb=1&gl=us&sa=X&ftid=0x89b7c97bf7253b1b:0x9a14f8d85d20b753), so people could easily GPS it, trailhead is right next to it). **Route:** Walk down CCT -> Hillandale Road -> Firefly Lookout -> Dorset Ave -> CCT -> 396, then come just straight back on the CCT. Should take about 1.5 hours, 3.8 miles. Dogs, kids, friends, etc. - all are welcome! [https://maps.app.goo.gl/jZeLP1b7zhcdQiJs8](https://maps.app.goo.gl/jZeLP1b7zhcdQiJs8)

Looking for a fun way to spend a day outdoors, meet great people, and enjoy some of Arlington's most scenic views? Join us for a relaxed group walk and picnic adventure! 📍 Where We'll Meet: We'll gather at Gravelly Point, (one of the best spots in the area to watch planes take off and land). There is a parking lot there for you to park your vehicles. 🚶 Our Route: From Gravelly Point, we'll stroll along the Potomac River trail toward Theodore Roosevelt Island, enjoying the scenery, conversation, and fresh air along the way. Once we get to the Roosevelt area parking lot, we will loop back around, and then head back to Gravelly Point. This is a social, easygoing walk—not a race! We'll take our time, chat, meet new people, and enjoy the journey. 🧺 Picnic Time: Once we're back at Gravelly Point, we'll spread out on the grass and enjoy a relaxing picnic together. Please bring: Your own lunch or snacks A blanket or lawn chair Water and any beverages you'd like Sunscreen, sunglasses, or a hat if desired Your positive energy and good vibes! 🌞 What to Expect Beautiful waterfront views Airplane spotting Friendly conversations Light exercise New connections A relaxing picnic on the grass Whether you're new to the area or a longtime local, this is a great opportunity to get outside, meet people, and enjoy one of Arlington's best walking routes. Hope to see you all there! 😉

Let's enjoy a hike on this next-to-last Sunday of spring in DC's Rock Creek Park! This one’s for car-free DC folks, those who want a short morning drive with easy parking, and anyone who wants to explore one of the region's great urban parks. This is a moderately challenging hike due to its length, though there is not much elevation gain. We’ll move at a steady 2–3 mph pace, with breaks as needed. Water and bathrooms are available at the start. Please bring 2 liters of water with you. **Start location and time:** We’ll meet at 9 am at Picnic Grove 24 across from Rock Creek Tennis Center [https://maps.app.goo.gl/wUMV6UqH7GKsDBbA8?g_st=ic](https://maps.app.goo.gl/wUMV6UqH7GKsDBbA8?g_st=ic) We'll gather at covered picnic table shown in the image below. I'll have a large blue hiking backpack. Note: We plan to start hiking promptly after our meeting time, but I'll allow a grace period of up to 10 minutes for late arrivals. Route: [https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-ba011fd](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-ba011fd) **Transportation Options:** Driving or rideshare (Lyft/Uber): Yes! the meeting point is easy to get to and parking is free and plentiful. Buses: Indeed! Several buses go past this location on 16th Street. You can pick them up from Silver Spring metro (red line) or various metro stations in downtown DC. Please allow a little extra time if taking the bus, given variability in arrival times. Bikeshares - Of course! There are stations close by. CARPOOLING: Although this is one of our rare public transportation-accessible hikes, we encourage those with cars driving in from outside DC to be willing to carpool - you're the ones who make LMH great! If you're a driver that is willing to drive, please post a comment on the event page with the following information: (1) Number of seats (2) Meeting location (3) Meeting time As a rider, please comment on the driver's post to take a seat or post in the comments that you need a ride so a driver can find you. Riders are encouraged to help their driver out with the cost of gas. We look forward to hiking with you! **Background Info About LMH:** Please remember that this group is an informal group of friends and volunteers initiating trips under the common adventurer model (https://www.ronwatters.com/CADefine.htm). We do expect our members to be familiar with the best practices of hiking. This is not a group for first time hikers and is NOT a group for those seeking hiking instruction. We are also not professionals, nor are we trained hike leaders, nor do we scout out hikes. We plan hikes for fun. You are responsible for your own welfare and safety at all LMH events. Be sure to choose to attend hikes only within your own physical abilities and and hiking knowledge; take maps, suitable clothing, provisions (at least two liters of water plus any food or medical supplies you might require) and equipment, and act responsibly and safely at all times. Act responsibly and safely: if you ever believe you may be lost, follow the advice of the US Forest Service (https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/know-before-you-go/if-you-get-lost) LMH organizers and members shall not be liable for any injuries, loss or damage to persons or property, direct or consequential, arising out of any aspect of LMH activities. By attending this event, you represent that you have read, understand, and agree to the contents of our waiver of liability in the following link ([https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pQ0dedcqlyjc_Aib3TEbTX4gQRQt4C7FeCmsAPyTxd4/edit?tab=t.0](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pQ0dedcqlyjc_Aib3TEbTX4gQRQt4C7FeCmsAPyTxd4/edit?tab=t.0))

Even though this is posted as a meetup event, this is a self-guided experience, we wont be walking as a group. Let's visit the Franciscan Monastery of the Holy Land in America, one of Washington's most beautiful and underrated landmarks. We'll explore the monastery's stunning architecture, peaceful gardens, catacombs, grottos, and replicas of famous Holy Land sites. Often described as a hidden oasis in the city, this unique destination offers a fascinating blend of history, art, culture, and tranquility. Whether you're interested in architecture, photography, spirituality, history, or simply discovering new places and meeting great people, you're welcome to join us. **Cost:** Free **Who can attend:** Everyone is welcome, regardless of faith background. Please dress respectfully, as this is an active religious site. ### What makes it unique? * **A "Holy Land in America"** – It was created so Americans could experience replicas of important Christian sites in Jerusalem and the Holy Land without traveling overseas. * **Underground catacombs** – Few places in DC have catacombs. Walking through them feels like stepping into another era. * **Hidden gardens and grottos** – The 40+ acre grounds are filled with rose gardens, quiet pathways, fountains, and secluded prayer spaces. Many visitors are surprised such a peaceful retreat exists in the middle of the city. * **Architectural variety** – The monastery combines elements inspired by churches and shrines from the Middle East, Europe, and early Christianity. * **A living monastery** – Franciscan friars still live and worship there, so it is not just a museum or historic site. ### Why is it historically important? * The Franciscans have been custodians of many Christian holy sites in the Holy Land for nearly 800 years. * The monastery was founded in the late 1800s as the American headquarters supporting those missions. * It helped make pilgrimage experiences accessible to people who could not afford the long journey to Jerusalem. ### Why do non-religious visitors enjoy it? Even if you're not religious, the monastery offers: * Beautiful architecture and art * Excellent photography opportunities * A fascinating glimpse into history and world cultures * One of the quietest and most serene places in DC * A chance to explore hidden tunnels, chapels, and gardens that most tourists never see Many people visit expecting a church and leave feeling like they've discovered a secret European monastery tucked away in Washington. That's why it is often described as one of DC's most underrated attractions.

Let's get together to play some competitive quads and doubles volleyball. **COST**: FREE **Court Type**: Outdoor grass **Minimum Skill Requirements**: Intermediate (click [here](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/mobilebasic) for details) Attention: 1. This event is **NOT on a first come-first serve** basis and players with higher skill level and players who can bring a net/ball will get priority over others on the wait list. 2. Since skill levels are **self-reported**, some new attendees may not meet the expected level. For doubles, we encourage you to choose a partner you can enjoy the game with, and since this a competitive event, it is okay if you make a strong team and win all the games. 3. Each person must help set up and take down one net, leaving some nets unset for latecomers. 4. Please answer all questions, so it's helpful for us to organize the event. **Smiley Social documents:** 1. [Group Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg) 2. [Smiley Social Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/edit) 3. [Good doubles partner](https://docs.google.com/document/d/14weEw-P52XKx0P8K2l-ZOFtYU61wmfdkSkopbG5avro/) 4. [Liability Waiver](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco)

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

Cost: free Court Type: Outdoor Sand Level: Social (everyone is welcome) Transportation: Parking will be right in front of the courts. What to bring: a ball if you have one. This is a social volleyball which means as long as you played volleyball before and can keep some rally going you can attend. The point is to practice being a team player, have fun, be social, and make friends. We should try to have 2 passes before sending the ball over on most plays. Let's get everyone involved in the game.

Capoeira (capo-way-ra) is an Afro-Brazilian martial art that is unlike any other martial art. Capoeira incorporates flowing movements with kicks, dodges, and some acrobatics. It is often mistaken for a dance for those reasons. Since it’s origins in the 17th century, it has evolved from a secret fighting practice into an art emphasizing self-expression and community celebration. It is great for the body and mind! In addition to gaining strength and flexibility in class, students learn about Brazilian culture, history, and language (Portuguese). On November 26, 2014 capoeira was granted a special protected status as "intangible cultural heritage” by UNESCO. No need to have a Capoeira background to join this class, just an open mind to try out a new way to move! Beginners welcome. **Please reserve your spot at www.piesfitnessyoga.com**. The session is offered InStudio only. **Sign up for sessions must be made at least 2 hours prior to class.** The address is 1322 Prince St. Alexandria, VA 22314. Our entrance is located on the side of the building, parallel to West St. **Street parking is available and additional parking is located at Shiloh Baptist church, spaces 3,5,7,9.** The church is located across the street from the studio, on the corner of Duke St. and West St.

## Details - Please read all below before you sign up **Cost:** Free **Court Type:** Outdoor Grass **Level:** BB **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. **4 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. This event is more on the competitive side. **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 -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/)

# Today's meetup is limited to 12 BB and above only players and 2x2, 3x3 or 4x4 play only. Please help us keep this day limited and enjoy the open play on the other days if you or your friend are not BB or above. People make plans and travel to show up on limited days for limited play because it is limited to experienced players. Please do not show up if you are on the waitlist without checking first, or try to play 5's or 6's, with your friend that is learning how to play, or because it is not full with 12 players if you or your friend are not BB or above. We’d rather play with 9 experienced players on these limited days than open it up to beginners, friends that are learning, etc. There are other open days for that, and they are fun too.

[The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations. If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!). **HOW IT WORKS** **Step 1: Bring a topic** Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event. **Step 2: Circle up & share** We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds. **Step 3: Walk, talk & float** We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!" **Step 4: Feel more alive** Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times. *For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)* **HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC** A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about. Recent topics include: * "What are you passionate about right now?" * "What makes a good friend?" * "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?" * "How do you want to be remembered?" * "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?" Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter. **WHAT TO EXPECT** This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.* But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here. **FAQ** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space. * Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know. * Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **LOGISTICS** * If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs. * Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details. * If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋 **IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...** [The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up. * This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).

We'll meet at the flagpole in the **Ridgeview Middle School** parking lot (4241 Rudy Rd). Parking there is fine on Sundays. From the school, we cross OH-315 and the Olentangy River via the **Olentangy Trail Pedestrian Bridge**, then walk past **Whetstone Pond** and through **Columbus Park of Roses**, turning back at the **Whetstone Branch of Columbus Metropolitan Library**. About 4 miles round trip, roughly 1.5 hours. Click [this Google Maps link](https://maps.app.goo.gl/jPCyEUyA2st8uWks5?g_st=i) to view the route. All paces welcome. See you there.