Hiking

*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.* This is a 7.9 mile out and back hike with about 1,800 foot elevation gain near Front Royal. We should get some great views at Buzzard Rock and along the way. After hiking for about 2.5 hours we'll have lunch and then work our way back down to the trailhead. Sections are pretty rocky so hiking sticks are recommended. We'll hike at a 2.0 to 2.5 mph. We'll start hiking at 900 AM. The suggested carpool location is at the Centerville P&R. The driving time from there to the trailhead is about 1 hour. Please arrive at the Park and Ride a few minutes before 7:30 AM to form carpool so all cars can leave by 7:30AM. Suggested carpool fee is $5. Hike leader will not be at carpool location. Neither the Club nor the hike leaders are responsible for coordinating transportation to/from the trailhead. Hikers are not guaranteed to get a ride to the trailhead from the carpool location. Carpooling is organized by the participants and they participate at their own risk. For those going directly to the Trailhead: 3087 Mountain Road, Front Royal, VA. GPS coordinates: 38.93768,-78.28851 Rating: B Map for hike: [https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/high-peak-via-buzzard-rock-75c58d3?u=i&sh=5vghox](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/high-peak-via-buzzard-rock-75c58d3?u=i&sh=5vghox) Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) They must be kept on a leash at all times. Leader: Dick Pregent 703-587-2359 Park Entry Fee: $0

Dark early. Bring a light. Loop around Lake Accotink. **Meet at Lake Accotink Park carousel parking area.** Trail is fairly flat, paved and gravel, easy, brisk walking. A few steep sections Views of Lake Accotink About 4 miles. We will leave promptly at **600 pm**, please arrive early so you are ready. We walk briskly, not this is not an evening stroll. Parking area gates close at 730 so we need to be out b then. The rest rooms at the meeting spot are closed for renovation. Make sure to bring water. We will meet at the traffic circle near the carousel. Goggle maps calls it Lake Accotink Park. You can park at the Hemming Ave lot, or under the railway bridge. the lot at the carousel is small and usually full.

Join the RunDMV crew every Thursday night at **6:30pm** outside **Caboose Brewing Co.** in Vienna (520 Mill St. NE). We hit the W&OD Trail right behind the brewery for a **40-minute out-and-back run/walk**—go at your own pace, and when you hit 20 minutes, just turn around so we all finish together. No matter if you’re walking, jogging, or pushing the pace, you’ll have company out there. Each week we switch directions (east one week, west the next) to keep things fresh. After the run, we stick around for food and drinks at Caboose—because half the fun of run club is hanging out afterward. 🍻

Theme for this coffee talk is: Would You Rather? – Lighthearted moral or silly dilemmas Meet up at Haraz, where rich coffee aromas and inviting seating create the ultimate casual hangout. Grab a traditional coffee, a sweet treat, or both, and settle in for relaxed conversations with friends old and new. This is the perfect spot for low-key socializing, sharing stories, and enjoying the friendly energy of the café.

Lets go play some volleyball at Ballenger creek park after work. No volleyball experience or high skill level required. It will be a casual game. We'll play for about an hour and a half.

RESTON COMMUNITY CENTER (RCC), Hunters Woods (Hunter Mill district) Thursday Meetup R RCC 0430 0630 happy hour @ various this week Buffalo Wing factory (BWF) in same Safeway shopping center 364-6 feet away R RCC 0705 0734 - 0735 meet & greet new members discussion with existing members R RCC 0745 - 0800 34-35 .PPT slides projector discussion: short explanations: topics are gen-AI such as Cursor & latest ChatGPT 3-4 & ML such as Tesla & Google’s automotive SAE Levels 4-5-6-/7 training status updates since the 3 NOVA documentary series episodes that were taped 3/5/2018 3/6 3/5 3/4 of 2019 3/4 3/3 of 2020 & 2018-2023 & various AP wire & national news coverage 3 minute networking after 0800 for the next 4-5 min afterward, depending on the timing of slides & nearby non-government facilities, host short course AI training & AI CS 211 from STANFORD University & workshops pending available facilities. R RCC 0804-0805 - 1000 Buffalo Wing Factory (BWF) or at hosts’ or several organizers’ homes for an AI Deep Dive & NETWORKING This event is not sponsored by the Reston Community Center, its Board of Governors, or staff.

Join us for an easy hike along the **Difficult Run Trail to Great Falls Park** and kick off your day with **great company** and engaging conversations! The trail is **mostly flat**, but a **246-foot incline within Great Falls Park** will give us a fun little cardio challenge. Don’t worry - we’ll pause at the top to regroup, hydrate, and catch our breath while soaking in the views. Whether you're here for the exercise, the scenery, or the chance to meet like-minded people, this hike has something for everyone! This trail is packed with sights: enjoy picturesque views along Difficult Run Stream and breathtaking overlooks of the Potomac River from up high. We’ll even come across a picnic table at the top of one incline, the perfect spot to rest, take in the view, and soak up some good vibes! Afterward, join us for an optional lunch at Mookie's BBQ to relax and unwind after our hike. **Meeting Time & Location** Meet at 9:30 AM at [Cross County Trail Access Point (Leigh Mill Rd & Kelso Rd)](https://maps.app.goo.gl/btDGQg7gphrVJdmB7). If you're running a bit late, you can catch up with us at the Difficult Run parking lot off Georgetown Pike - we’ll pass through about 30 minutes into the hike. **Distance:** 5 miles **Difficulty:** Easy (246 feet of elevation gain) This hike is rated Easy for its gentle terrain, wide paths, and manageable 246 feet of elevation gain. * **Easy Water Crossing:** Large stepping stones make the stream crossing simple and safe. * **No Rock Scrambling or Steep Climbs:** The trail has no steep rocky sections or scrambling required. * **Mild Inclines:** The mostly flat route includes a gentle 246 foot incline within Great Falls Park. **Pace:** Moderate Pace A steady, comfortable pace that’s manageable for most hikers with a reasonable fitness level. Breaks are regular but not overly frequent, allowing for a balanced experience of exercise and enjoyment. **Parking** Plenty of parking is available. You can park off Route 683 by [Cross County Trail Access Point (Leigh Mill Rd & Kelso Rd)](https://maps.app.goo.gl/btDGQg7gphrVJdmB7) (be sure to park head-in, with your car clear of the street). Additional parking is on the shoulder of Kelso Road. The trailhead is at the intersection of Route 683 and Kelso Road, marked with a crosswalk. **Trail Map (AllTrails):** [Take a Hike! (DMV) - Difficult Run to Great Falls Park](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/difficult-run-from-683-23fa71c) **Dog Attendance** For everyone’s comfort and enjoyment, we kindly ask that you leave your dogs at home for this hike. Thank you for understanding! **Lunch After the Hike** Join us for an optional lunch after the hike at **Mookie's BBQ, 1141 Walker Rd, Great Falls, VA 22066**. It’s a perfect way to relax and unwind after our time outdoors!

We will be hiking the loop trail, (counter clockwise) around the BeaverDam Reservoir starting at the brand new Reservoir Park VisitorsCenter. Beautiful views of the water and varied woodland areas. This is an 7.5 Mile loop hike around one of Northern Virginia's largest bodies of water. The loop is mainly flat with a tiny hill or two. I've rated the loop moderate because the distance is 7.5 miles. After the hike we'll head over to Lark Brewing. 24205 James Monroe Hwy, Aldie, VA 20105 for food and beverages. \*\* I will make every effort for your safety. You are hiking at your own risk. Dogs are welcome on the hike as long as they are good with groups, friendly and you follow all leash laws. I like kids but this is an adult event so please no kids or any one under 21.\*\* Reservoir Park Trail on AllTrails https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/reservoir-park-trail?sh=lkkoxr&utm_medium=trail_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality

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. **8.63 mile circuit hike with 456 feet of elevation gain.** **Description:** This beautiful hike starts out in **[Riverbend Park](https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend/hours)** and follows the **[Potomac Heritage trail](https://www.nps.gov/pohe/index.htm)**[ ](https://www.nps.gov/pohe/index.htm) to **[Great Falls Park](https://www.nps.gov/grfa/index.htm)** offering **spectacular views** of the **Potomac River** and the **Great Falls**. We will stop **briefly** at the **3 Great Falls Overlooks** for some amazing views of the **falls** and **Mather’s Gorge.** From there we continue along the **Old Carriage Road** to the **Swamp Trail** and up to the **Ridge Trail.** A**t** this point, we head down to and cross **Route 193** into the **Difficult Run Parking lot**. We then follow a small portion of **Difficult Run** **Trail** to the **Ridge Trail** that will take us to the **Matildaville Trail** and finally back onto the **River Trail** overlooking the **Potomac River** as we head back to **Riverbend Park. (see [MAP](https://www.nps.gov/grfa/upload/GRFA-complete-map-508.pdf))** **Hike Pace**: Pace will be about **2.5 mph**. **Bring:** Adequate water/hydration, snacks/lunch, and sturdy hiking shoes since there are some rocky areas/tree roots on the River Trail. Hiking poles if you normally use them. There are no stream crossings. **Fee:** There is **no entrance fee** at Riverbend Park, but I will need to collect **$2.00** from each hiker to cover the cost of **group fees** at Riverbend. for groups of 12 or more. I will get the **Group Permit** in advance. Small bills only please! **Dogs:** dogs are welcome on this hike in accordance with the [NVHC Dog Policy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy). **Great Falls Trail Map:** [https://www.nps.gov/grfa/upload/GRFA-complete-map-508.pdf](https://www.nps.gov/grfa/upload/GRFA-complete-map-508.pdf) **Where to Meet:** Meet in the parking lot across from the [Riverbend Park Visitor's Center](https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend-park) at 8:45 to allow everyone to get signed in and ready to hike at 9:00 am. The Hatchback of my Honda Fit will be up. **Coordinates** 39.01817, -77.24599 **Address:** 8700-8814 Jeffery Rd, Great Falls, VA 22066 Any questions, please message me here or text me at 703 533 9231 Dawn K. Rehydration: [The Old Brogue](https://oldbrogue.com/)

Let's continue exploring the historic lockhouses along the C&O Canal, this time staying in a primitive one -- Pennyfield Lock, located by Lock 22. As this is a primitive lockhouse there are NO modern amenities (running water, electricity, heat, or kitchen), and so you will need to bring everything you need to stay comfortable during this one-night stay. We can enjoy some easy hikes along the towpath and through the nearby Blockhouse Point Conservation Park during our visit. Due to the location of the lockhouse, a carpooling spot has not been established. A WhatsApp group will be created closer to the event and will be used to coordinate rides and other event logistics. We will plan to meet at the lockhouse at 11:00 AM on Saturday morning. ## **Trail Facts** * **Difficulty Level:** Moderate * **Length:** 14.2 Miles * **Duration:** 4.5-5.5 hrs * **Elevation Gain:** 506 Feet * **Permits:** Juanatán will provide overnight parking permits to drivers. * **Parking:** Carpooling will be coordinated via WhatsApp. * **Dogs:** Not allowed inside the lockhouse, sorry. * **Trailhead Coordinates:** 39.05497688136813, -77.29032396969912 * **AllTrails Maps**: * https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-af4793c?u=i&sh=kucj8c * https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-9e94313?u=i&sh=kucj8c **Trail Details:** We will arrive at the parking lot near the lockhouse at 11:00 AM on Saturday morning. We won't be able to check in, so we will go on a hike to Seneca Quarry, where we can explore some old structures that used to be part of the canal system. We will take a slightly different route back through Blockhouse Point Conservation Park. By then we will be ready to check in to the lockhouse. Everyone will need to carry their gear 0.1 miles from the parking lot to the lockhouse. There is no kitchen inside and no running water, so keep that in mind when planning dinner. We can all relax, perhaps play some games, and check out the lockhouse. Closer to nightfall we will go on a short 3-mile hike to Swains Lock where we can enjoy a nice view of the sunset. We will then hike 3 miles back in the dark to the lockhouse and perhaps play games or enjoy a fire before bed. The next morning everyone is on their own for breakfast. Keep in mind that we need to clean up and be out of the lockhouse no later than 10:00 AM. The maximum capacity of the lockhouse is eight people. Depending on who signs up it may be necessary to rearrange the provided trundle beds or bring sleeping pads so we can spread out and make sure everyone has a comfortable sleeping arrangement. You can learn more about the lockhouse [here](https://www.canaltrust.org/lockhouse-22/). Since this is a rustic lockhouse, I will only need $10 from each participant to cover the cost of the reservation. I accept PayPal, Venmo, and cash. :) I'm looking forward to this relaxing trip. Please let me know if you have any questions. **Saturday Itinerary:** * 11:00 AM: Meet at the trailhead, start hiking. * 3:00 PM: Check into the lockhouse, get set up, eat, play games, etc. * 6:00 PM: Hike to Swains Lock, enjoy the sunset, hike back. * 9:00 PM: Potentially enjoy a fire or simply go to bed. **Sunday Itinerary:** * Everyone can get up whenever they want to, keeping in mind that we need to clean up and check out of the lockhouse no later than 10:00 AM. **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! **[Featured Image Source](https://www.canaltrust.org/lockhouse-22/)**

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. **13 miles with 2000 ft. elevation gain for both sides.** **There will be an option for a B or C hike depending on your preference if you only want to do the main side.** **Description:** Sky Meadows State Park is rich in history, the park has rolling pastures and woodlands, scenic vistas and is also a working farm. The park also has access to the Appalachian Trail which we will hike our way up to. Starting from Sky Meadows State Park visitors center parking area, we will combine several trails including the James Ball, Hadow, South Ridge, North Ridge Trails,, a portion of the Appalachian Trail and the Ambassador Whitehouse Trail. There a some nice scenic overlooks including the Paris, VA overlook where we will take a break before returning back down to the visitor center. At this point you will have the option to to complete the C level hike. Most of the elevation gain is when we ascend to the top of the ridge to the AT. After finishing the main side of the park we will make our way to the Lost Mountain side and complete that section before returning to the parking lot. B level hikers will have the option to return shortly after that point and before continuing on to Lost Mountain. The pace will be about 2.5 mph, slower uphill. Completing both sides is very close to an A+ hike, so make sure you are physically up to it. Any questions, let me know. **Bring:** At least 2-3 liters of water/hydration, snacks/lunch, and sturdy hiking shoes since there are some rocky areas, and tree roots. Recommend insect repellent and sunscreen. Hiking poles if you normally use them. **Fee:** The park fee is $10 unless you have a Virginia State Park Pass or use your REI purchase receipt parking coupon from a participating Virginia REI. *Provide your REI receipt to the contact station ranger or insert it in a self-pay envelope. If main entrance contact station is not staffed you must use the self-pay envelope provided at the gate and hang the stub on your rearview mirror.* **Dogs are welcome**. NVHC Dog policy: [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) **CARPOOLING:** For those who are looking to carpool, meet at University Blvd - Gainesville Park and Ride and plan to leave at 8:15am to arrive at the trailhead in time to get signed in and start hiking at 9am. **A new Sheetz has opened in the Park & Ride, this would be a good meeting point. New Stable Way, directly across from the Sheetz store.** **GPS 38.801119, -77.589532** Sky Meadows trail map link: [https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/document/data/trail-guide-skymeadows.pdf](https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/document/data/trail-guide-skymeadows.pdf) **NOTE: The hike starts at 9am at the parking lot at Sky Meadows State Park. If you are carpooling from Gainesville Park and Ride plan on leaving there by 8:15am.** **Meeting Place Instructions: We are meeting at the parking lot closest to the Visitor Center where the hike starts GPS coordinates 38.991732, -77.966120** This parking lot is in front of the Mount Bleak House. You may want to arrive early to secure a parking spot. *Optional post hike rehydration TBD😊* Any questions please message me here or text/call me at 202-528-0456. If you text me please include your name.

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. This is an A+ hike due to distance and elevation. **PLEASE READ THIS ENTIRE POST BEFORE RSVPING.** **PLEASE NOTE**: \*\*\*\* This hike is only suitable for those who have recent experience hiking this distance and elevation gain. **If I don’t know you, you MUST message me within 24 hours of signing up with a recent A+ hike you have done or a hike leader who can vouch for you. Otherwise, you will be moved to “Not Going”. \*\*\*** There are 3 potentially tricky water crossings depending on the water level. Shoe covers are advised. **\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* THE GOOD STUFF \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*** This is a new twist on the classic lollipop hike of 13.8ish miles and about 3,100 feet of elevation gain. We will be doing this hike in the opposite direction from what most people know, which means we’ll hit the overlook at Bear Church Rock in the afternoon rather than in the morning. We'll start the hike on the Graves Mill Trail then take the Staunton River Trail to the Fork Mountain Fire Road to the Jones Mountain Trail, where we’ll eventually hit Bear Church Rock, then back to the Staunton River Trail and Graves Mill Trail to the cars. \***For those wishing to CARPOOL**, the suggested carpool location is at the Centreville Park and Ride, 14700 Lee Highway, Centreville, VA. The driving time from there to the trailhead is approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes **(with no stop)**. Please arrive at the Park and Ride before 6:00 AM to form carpools **so all cars can leave a little after 6:00 AM**. **I WILL BE MEETING EVERYONE AT THE TRAILHEAD.** PLEASE NOTE: Neither the Club nor the hike leaders are responsible for coordinating transportation to/from the trailhead. Hikers are not guaranteed to get a ride to the trailhead from the carpool location. Carpooling is organized by the participants and participation is at your own risk. Suggested carpool fee: $8.00 per rider. **Need-to-know info:** * CARPOOLING: See above. Parking is limited so carpooling is advised. * Distance: 13.8ish miles * Elevation gain: 3,100ish ft. * Pace: 2.25 - 2.75 mph overall * Trailhead meetup time: 8:00 A.M. Hike starts at 8:15 A.M. **SHARP**. * **Parking Coordinates: 38.43714,-78.36709** * Park Entry fee: $0 * Carpool Fee: $8 * Pace: 2.25-2.75 mph when moving. * Terrain: Somewhat rocky, steep and gentle grades, three stream crossings * Bring: Adequate water, lunch/snacks, hat, tick/bug spray, basic first aid kit, map, rain gear (depending), hiking poles, hiking shoes, boot covers for the stream crossing (just to be prepared) and a good attitude. * Pets: Not allowed per the hike leader's decision * NO complainers allowed! :-) PLEASE PRINT OUT ANY MAPS THAT YOU MAY NEED AS I DO NOT PROVIDE COPIES OF MAPS. ALL THE LINKS AND COORDINATES YOU WILL NEED HAVE BEEN PROVIDED. AllTrails Map: [https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/reverse-bear-church-rock-de03bef](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/reverse-bear-church-rock-de03bef) AND FINALLY! 1. Don't come if you’re not feeling well. 2. Avoid the most severe, unspeakable bad karma by CHANGING YOUR RSVP if you're not able to attend within a reasonable time - not hours before. Any questions? Message or call the Hike Leader: Susan M (703) 963-8939

(RSVPs open April 5th 8 am) Come out and enjoy discovering the Spring flowers blooming along the Potomac this time of the year. We will hike about 6 miles on the Billy Goat Trail section B & section C. Billy Goat Trail section B re-opened this spring after being closes since after a flood in 2018 We will do an 8 loop alternating hiking on the Billy Goat trails and on the towpath, we will be on natural terrain trails, Billy goat trail is pretty rocky with some rock scrambling and creek crossing, C is easier, the towpath is flat and graveled. Meet: [Carderock North parking lot](https://maps.app.goo.gl/uPXMBmBAx7mTQ7366) At 9:45 am for registration, we will start hiking at 10 am. Bring: Snacks/Lunch, water, hiking shoes for a good grip on the rocks. Weather-appropriate clothing. There is a portable toilet on the Carderock north parking lot. RSVPs open April 5th 8 am For carpooling, the closest metro stations are the ones on the Red line: Friendship Heights, Bethesda, Medical Center, Grosvenor-Strathmore. Arrange for carpool in Meetup Comments, on your own.

We will hike at Sky Meadows State Park, 5.2 miles with an elevation gain of 1000’. The pace for this hike is suitable for beginners and families, at 1.4-1.9 mph, with slower options available as needed. The hike is referred to as a lollipop. We will meet at the Visitor Center parking lot and hike to the Boston Mill Road Trail. We will take the North Ridge Trail to the Appalachian Trail and then the Ambassador White House Trail. We will return on the North Ridge Trail and Boston Mill Road Trail. **DIRECTIONS AND PARKING:** Physical Address: 11012 Edmonds Ln., Delaplane, VA 20144 The park is less than two miles south of Paris, VA via U.S. Route 50 to Route 17 South, or seven miles north of I-66, Exit 23 on Route 17 North. The park’s main entrance is on Rt. 710/Edmonds Lane. Park in the lot at the visitor center. Sue's vehicle is a white Toyota Corolla. **RESTROOM**: Onsite at the visitor center. **THINGS TO BRING:** You will need a Virginia State Park Pass or pay a $10 fee to access the park. Dress in layers and be prepared for cold weather. Bring water, snacks, a first aid kit, hiking poles, and pack extra socks. Hiking Guides: [https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/patc-mentoring-hike-sky-meadows-d06f64a](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/patc-mentoring-hike-sky-meadows-d06f64a) [https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/document/data/trail-guide-skymeadows.pdf](https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/document/data/trail-guide-skymeadows.pdf) **Notes:** * Participants are required to sign a PATC HIKE SIGNUP SHEET AND LIABILITY form. * RSVP to register for this hike. If your plans change, update your RSVP. * To find out more about PATC, [click here](https://www.patc.net/). * Consider becoming a member of PATC. To join, [click here](https://www.patc.net/membership). Please check the night before for any updates. A hike will be cancelled due to weather conditions and Virginia Department of Transportation travel alerts. Attendance will be limited at the discretion of our hike leaders. Preference will be given to PATC members. PATC rules do not permit children under the age of 18 to participate in a hike without a parent or guardian present. Please leave your canine companions at home. Thanks!

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. This is an 8 mile hike in Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, with 1000’ elevation gain including about 2.5 miles of bushwhacking. We will begin at the Harpers Ferry train station. We will hike a loop thru town and then across the Potomac River on the Goodlow Bryon Memorial footbridge. Taking a left we will hike a couple of miles along the C&O canal before beginning the bushwhack to explore prominent sites including a hand-dug iron pit, various structures and up a road that hauled supplies to a Civil War fort (Fort Duncan). Long pants and tick spray recommended. We hike at a pace of 2.5-3.0 mph when moving. ***Bushwhacking involves walking off trail with potential obstacles such as downed trees, brush, sticker bushes, rocks, mud, stream crossings and steep uphills and downhills. Only RSVP if you are up for this adventure.*** Due to the nature of bushwhacks attendance will be limited. [Rating: B](https://nvhc.com/hikeinfo/ratings/) Leader: Ed Brimberg 703-944-9920 (C) Carpools: Arrive at the One Loudoun Park and Ride at 7:45am, carpools leave at 8:00am GPS Coordinates: 39.054674, -77.459302, [https://maps.app.goo.gl/dyK5ptbQGR7hAMV59](https://maps.app.goo.gl/dyK5ptbQGR7hAMV59) . Suggested carpool fee is $4. ***The leader will be at the carpool location.*** Driving time to the trailhead from the carpool location \~1 hour. If you are going to the trailhead, meet at the Harpers Ferry Train Station at 9:00am hike starts at 9:15am, GPS coordinates: 39.324540, -77.731047 [https://goo.gl/maps/yLmDLB9cx44Bkr4z7](https://goo.gl/maps/yLmDLB9cx44Bkr4z7) Neither the Club nor the hike leaders are responsible for coordinating transportation to/from the trailhead. Hikers are not guaranteed to get a ride to the trailhead from the carpool location. Carpooling is organized by the participants and they participate at their own risk. Parking Fee at Train Station: $20 (The only way to pay is scan the QR code on your phone) or free with National Park pass. If you have a pass please display it with signature side up on your vehicle's dashboard, where it can clearly be seen through the windshield. No dogs are permitted on this hike. AllTrails Map: [https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/harper-s-ferry-bushwack-60bb806?u=i](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/harper-s-ferry-bushwack-60bb806?u=i) \*\*\*\*You must be experienced in hikes of this distance and elevation gain. \*\*\*\*