Bicycle Camping

I've decided last minute to do the STS loop in 3 days. I've made this VMO/IO because of the challenging nature of this hike. Splits are roughly 31/29/24. The plan is to start early on Friday morning camping at the Spook Hollow Shelter, then stopping at Debs Cross Fork Inn for lunch, go to the Gravel Lick Shelter. The final day is back to the car and head home. Here is a trip report from another DCUL trip to this trail: https://dculbackpacking.com/2022/06/02/trip-report-spooky-hollow-danger-bigfoot-warnings-and-a-spider-man-sighting-susquehannock-trail-system-thru-hike-85-miles-may-26-30-2022/ The weather report for the weekend is mostly hot with temps in the mid-high 80s, lows of 60 overnight. I would expect some sections of the trail to be hiking through long grass, nettles and there are the ever present ticks. Water should be not a problem at this time of the year. Caltopo for this trip: https://caltopo.com/m/4R5VMG5 DCULers always bring maps. Below are a few resources: Susquehannock Trail System Guidebook & Map Set (fifth edition) by Chuck Dillon: [http://www.pinecrk.com/items/items.html](http://www.pinecrk.com/items/items.html) Michael's (U-turn): [https://www.amazon.com/AMCs-Best-Backpacking-Mid-Atlantic-Multiday/dp/193402886X](https://www.amazon.com/AMCs-Best-Backpacking-Mid-Atlantic-Multiday/dp/193402886X) Purple Lizard (only covers STS partially): [https://www.purplelizard.com/products/pine-creek-pennsylvania-grand-canyon-map?_pos=1&_sid=d58845716&_ss=r](https://www.purplelizard.com/products/pine-creek-pennsylvania-grand-canyon-map?_pos=1&_sid=d58845716&_ss=r) PA DCNR: [https://www.dcnr.pa.gov/StateForests/FindAForest/Susquehannock/Pages/Maps.aspx](https://www.dcnr.pa.gov/StateForests/FindAForest/Susquehannock/Pages/Maps.aspx) The Fine Print I’m just a co-participant on this trip, not a guide or an expert. I have no special training, such as organizational, medical, or navigational. You are officially on the trip if you both RSVP on Meetup, we engage by email, text, or the app, and you meet me at the trailhead. Otherwise, you are doing your own trip until you make physical contact with me and I recognize you as a co-participant. By RSVPing to this trip or any other DC UL trip, you agree to DC UL's liability waiver terms. ([https://dculbackpacking.com/about/liability-waiver](https://dculbackpacking.com/about/liability-waiver)) If you are a member, don't forget to pay your annual $10 dues. You can check to see if you need to pay dues by seeing if the current year is listed next to your name in your DC UL profile. Applicants do not need to pay dues for their first trip with the group. To pay your dues via PayPal, use this link: [https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/JenniferAdach/15](https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/JenniferAdach/15)

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. **9 mile loop with 1100ft. of elevation; Each 400ft. elevation = 1 mile, so hike is approx. 11.5 miles.** **Please Note: this hike involves a lot of maneuvering over tree trunks, around rock and stream crossings.** You must be **capable** of hiking this **distance** and **elevation.** Join us as we hike along the **[Potomac Heritage Trail](https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/planyourvisit/upload/POHEMap-508-2021.pdf)** from **[Turkey Run](https://gohikevirginia.com/turkey-run-park/)** to **[Chain Bridge](https://arlingtonhistorical.com/items/show/127)** through **[Fort Marcy](https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/planyourvisit/fortmarcy.htm)** and **back**. It is a scenic and very enjoyable hike! **DESCRIPTION:** We will descend from **[Turkey Run Park](https://gohikevirginia.com/turkey-run-park/)** to the **[Potomac River](https://www.americanrivers.org/river/potomac-river/)**[ ](https://www.americanrivers.org/river/potomac-river/)to hike along the **[Potomac Heritage Trail](https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/planyourvisit/upload/POHEMap-508-2021.pdf)**[.](https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/planyourvisit/upload/POHEMap-508-2021.pdf) We will follow the trail through **varied landscapes** such as neighborhoods, highways, and along streams. We will stop and have lunch/snack near **[Fort Marcy](https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/planyourvisit/fortmarcy.htm)** and then continue along a lovely stream towards \*\*[Chain Bridge ](https://arlingtonhistorical.com/items/show/127)\*\*trailhead where we turn around and head back to **Turkey Run**. **Facilities: None** **Bring:** adequate hydration, sturdy shoes, poles, snack/lunch, insect repellant **Pace:** We hike at a pace of 2.0 to 2.5 mph while moving. **Dogs**: No dogs on this hike per **[[NVHC Dog Policy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicyhttps:/tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolic)]** **Park Entry Fee**: $0.00 **Where to Meet**: We will begin at **Turkey Run Park Lot C1** off of the **George Washington Memorial Parkway**. There is plenty of parking. I have a Honda Fit, the hatchback will be up. Please **arrive by 9:15** am to allow time for signing in. We'll start hiking at **9:30am.** **GPS Coord: 38.964339, -77.153148** **LINK: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/KDBQ5BdcVQRGHCnP7](https://maps.app.goo.gl/KDBQ5BdcVQRGHCnP7)** **Post-Hike Fellowship: TBD** **Leader:** Dawn please message me here or text to 703 533 9231

**NOTE: \*New start Point at Safeway Parking Lot in Bowie, MD\*** ***Due to construction taking place at our previous start point we have moved the start point to the Safeway parking lot at Bowie Town Center.*** Meetup is at 5:30p and on the pedals at 6:00p. This "**IS"** a SAG supported ride. Please bring $5 exact change or CashApp: ***$ZOAROO***. SAG number will given at the pre-ride briefing. With the exception of flats, NO ONE IS LEFT BEHIND. Rather than the typical free-for-all, this ride is governed by Ride Marshalls who controls the pace at certain points in the route. Speeds vary from 15-19mph on rollers to 20+mph on the flats. Not to worry, at no time will you be required to ride at the front to pull the group. For those that have the need for speed, there are sprint section throughout the route where you can test your fitness. Riders are allowed to go as fast or as easy as they like through these sections. cue sheet: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/55287845 PACE: A = 19+mph B = 17-19mph C = 15-17 D = 12-15 AMS (Average Moving Speed) may vary depending on terrain, traffic, and the ability of riders. **Please Read**: To maintain safety on the road and to be respectful of motorists the following simple set of guidelines are asked to be followed: Do not pass the guide in the non Free Ride sections. Yellow Line rule on two lane roads must be obeyed. (NEVER EVER to be crossed) White Line rule when we have ample shoulder or an adequate bike must be obeyed. Broken Line rule, we do not take up more than one lane except when safely transitioning for a left turn. Slower riders in the Free Ride sections should move to the far right to allow faster riders to go by on the left. 2x2 Paceline at all other times. No wheel overlapping of the rider in front. The ride will NOT stop for flats. If you are with a friend that flats, we suggest that you stop and ride in with them. Be sure to know the route and how to short cut or get back and how to change a flat. NO "in ear" or "over the ear" Headphones of any kind allowed. More experienced cyclists are asked to help first timers with route info We ask that everyone with intentions of participating in any VVCC ride or event please RSVP. This helps our organizers plan properly for your attendance. When you RSVP to participating in this or any VELO VELO Cycling Club ride or event you are acknowledging that you take sole and full responsibility for your own health and safety. Helmets are a must. No helmet-No participation. Please be sure to have all proper equipment and supplies to help ensure a safe and pleasant ride. Two spare inner tubes, CO2 cartridges, patch kit and pump. Front and rear lights Eye Protection Gloves Proper hydration Water bottles that fit your bottle cage ID and money Obey all traffic laws including stopping at red lights.

We will have open shop hours for anyone to bring their bikes to work on or need help fixing your own bike. We will also have bikes that need to be fixed so you can learn if you like. We will need everyone to sign in when arriving and sign out when leaving so we can keep track of volunteer hours and shop times. Suggested donation of $15 per hour for use of tools and space would be appreciated. Thank you!

Weekly Saturday group ride, starting at Handy Bikes Retail Showroom. Come ride with locals in the area! This group ride is for average folks who want to go for an average ride. It's not quite a coffee ride, but it's definitely not a race! Routes will vary around the area, with an average speed around 14 mph (minimum of \~10 MPH) for around 15-30 miles. We'll be on pavement so bikes with smooth tires are encouraged, **helmets are mandatory**. Open to any riders who are willing and able to ride with a group including Class 1, 2, and 3 e-bikes. No speed demons please! Good group ride etiquette is a requirement. Shop opens at 10:00 am Show up and sign in by 10:15 am Roll out 10:30 am Please RSVP in advance, so that the ride leaders can prepare for the group's size. [Handy Bikes on Strava](https://www.strava.com/clubs/737920/leaderboard) [Handy Bikes on RideWithGPS](https://ridewithgps.com/organizations/14675-handy-bikes)

**NEW RIDE!!** **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride: Summary** **(Must Read)** **+++++++++++++++++++++** * RIDE NAME: Bike and Bird - Dyke Marsh Preserve * START LOC: Shirlington Library * START GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/y1K7iBorEgsTWBpaA](https://goo.gl/maps/y1K7iBorEgsTWBpaA) * START PARKING: Any Parking Garage * ARRIVAL: 7:30 am * SPEECH: 7:45 am * ROLLING: 8:00 am * LEVEL: Beginner(+) (but all welcome) * DISTANCE: 15 miles (bike) 1.5 miles (on foot) * PACE: 12-13mph * TERRAIN: Flat Asphalt * RIDEWITHGPS ROUTE: CBG_BIKE_BIRD_DYKEMARSH_2026 [https://ridewithgps.com/routes/55620581](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/55620581) **TIMINGS (approximates):** * Rolling @ 8:00am * Dyke Marsh @ 8:45am (Lock up Bikes) * Birding @ 9:00am - 10:00am * Back in Shirlington @ 10:45am (ish) for Brunch **NOTES:** * MUST have a spare tube * MUST bring a bike lock * MUST bring walkable shoes * OPTIONAL: Load the Merlin Bird app on your phone. [https://merlin.allaboutbirds.org/](https://merlin.allaboutbirds.org/) **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride : Detail** **+++++++++++++++++++++** Are you slightly "bird curious" but afraid to admit it? This started as a joke around the camp fire, but why not actually go ride our bikes and do a little "birding"? We will ride our bikes from Shirlington to the Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve (15 miles round trip) ... but once at the Preserve we will lock up our bikes at the Dyke Marsh Trail head then walk 1.5 miles (round trip) to go listen to the birds "Dawn Chorus". Bring binoculars if you own them if you want to "see" any birds too. OPTIONAL: Load the Merlin Bird app on your phone. [https://merlin.allaboutbirds.org/](https://merlin.allaboutbirds.org/) **+++++++++++++++++++++** **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 Bearded Goat**, next to the Shirlington Library. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride After The Ride:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** Brunch someplace in Shirlington. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **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:](http://meetup.com's/) * "Terms of Service : Section 6. Release" found at [https://www.meetup.com/terms/](https://www.meetup.com/terms/) * NOVA-CBG's "Assumption of Risk Agreement" found @ [https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/pages/1942951/NOVA-CBG_Waiver/](https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/pages/1942951/NOVA-CBG_Waiver/) * NoVA CBG's "COVID Policy" found @ [http://bit.ly/2021_NoVACBG_COVID19_POLICY](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.

Sign up to help with customer service at our Arlington shop! **If this is your first time doing customer service at our shop**, **please direct message Elizabeth here via MeetUp** so she can ensure someone can be there to orient you. **What you'll do:** * greet customers * manage customer traffic * help customers find basic bike parts in our store * direct customers to the mechanics if they need a bike repair * help customers find a bike that fits them * set customers up to test ride bikes * work the register to conduct customer payments **Qualities of a good volunteer for this role:** * customer service oriented * willing to work outside most of the shift * able to work on their feet most of the shift * comfortable working in a faced-paced environment * open to a steep learning curve with a rewarding experience the more times you volunteer * excited to learn about Velocity Bicycle Cooperative and become part of our volunteer team that keeps our wheels turning! **What to Bring/Attire** * A water bottle & snack * Wear comfortable shoes and clothes appropriate for the day's weather * Sunscreen and a baseball hat if it is sunny **Age Requirements:** If you are under 18, you must bring a parent/guardian with you to the orientation to sign the waiver.

# [6 Hours at Woodstock (6HAW)](https://www.bikereg.com/6-hours-at-woodstock) ## Sat June 13, 2026Woodstock, MD https://www.bikereg.com/6-hours-at-woodstock

Caledon State Park is a 2,500-acre property in King George County that has been designated as a National Natural Landmark. The park includes 16 miles of hiking trails and is home to old growth forests and American bald eagles. Given the low mileage and modest elevation gain, this backpacking trip is a great choice for those who are new to the sport or who are trying to get back into it. We will meet on the sidewalk between the parking garage and the bus lane at the Franconia-Springfield Metro Station at 9:00 AM and carpool to the trailhead. Drive time is about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Please post a comment below if you are willing to drive. Carpooling saves the environment and makes friends. ## Trail Facts * **Difficulty Level:** Easy * **Length:** 13.5 Miles * **Duration:** 2 Days * **Elevation Gain:** 702 Feet * **Bear Canisters:** Not Required * **Permits:** Not required, although I ask that each person chips in $10 to help cover the cost of the camping reservation. You can give me cash or send me money via PayPal or Venmo. * **Dogs:** Allowed on leash at the park, but not at the post-trip meal location. * **Parking:** Franconia-Springfield Metro Station (Free garage parking is available if you aren't driving to the trailhead.) * **Trailhead Coordinates:** 38.33376579936516, -77.14297900500688 * **AllTrails Maps:** [Day 1, Part 1](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/caledon-state-park-nova-tb-sat-1-f2fb9d7?u=i&sh=kucj8c) / [Day 1, Part 2](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/caledon-state-park-nova-tb-sat-2-8f2f470?u=i&sh=kucj8c) / [Day 2](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/caledon-state-park-nova-tb-sun-b016935?u=i&sh=kucj8c) **Trail Details:** **Day 1, Part 1:** After arriving at the park we will put on our packs and hike about 7 miles with 456 feet of elevation gain. During this leg of our journey we will stop by a few overlooks of the Potomac River and, if we're lucky, we may see some bald eagles. This loop will take us back to the Visitor Center, where you'll have the opportunity to top off your water supplies and check out the exhibits while Juanatán checks in on behalf of the group. You should be prepared to carry enough water to last you until we get back to our cars on Sunday, as there is no potable water near our campsite. **Day 1, Part 2:** Once the group is ready we'll hike another 3.5 miles with 75 feet of elevation gain to our camping location near the Potomac River and Jones Pond. I have reserved six camping sites, with two tents allowed per site. We will set up camp, eat dinner, and relax around the fire as we wind down for the day. There will likely be a lot of free time, so consider bringing games or some other form of entertainment. **Day 2**: While during many backpacking trips it is helpful to start early the second day, on this trip we can take our time in the morning as we wake up, eat breakfast, and pack. I still anticipate that we'll be able to depart our camping spot by 10:00 a.m. and hike a slightly different route of 3 miles with 171 feet of elevation gain back to our cars. I plan to stop at Pancho Villa in Stafford on the way home -- the address is 155 Garrisonville Rd, Stafford, VA 22554. **Gear List** *Note: Be prepared for varying temperatures; layering is key.* **Essential Items**: * Tent * Sleeping pad​ * Sleeping bag suitable for expected temperatures​ * Backpack (appropriate for overnight backpacking)​ * Backpacking stove with fuel​ * Pot, cup, dish, and utensils​ * Dehydrated meals​ and snacks (for lunch and dinner on Saturday and for breakfast on Sunday) * Water bottles or hydration system (3-liter capacity)​ * Bag or canister for securely storing food and other scented items * Water filter or purification tablets​ * Headlamp with extra batteries​ * Rain gear * Dry bags or pack cover​ * Warm clothing layers (non-cotton) * Trowel and toiletries for Leave No Trace compliance **Optional Items**: * Personal first aid kit​ * Map and compass or GPS device * Power bank or external battery * Trekking poles​ * Camp shoes * Electrolyte supplements​ * Alcohol​ * Books, games, or other entertainment * Gaiters​ * Sunscreen, lip balm, insect repellent​​ **Saturday Itinerary:** 9:00 AM: Meet at the Franconia-Springfield Metro Station. 9:15 AM: Depart for the trailhead. 11:00 AM: Arrive and begin the hike. 3:00 PM: Come back to the Visitor Center, top off water supplies. 4:30 PM: Arrive at the campsite. *(Set up camp, explore the beach, eat dinner, etc. for the rest of the evening.)* **Sunday Itinerary:** 8:00 AM: Break camp, eat breakfast. 10:00 AM: Depart for the trailhead. 11:30 AM: Arrive at our cars, drive to the restaurant. 2:00 PM: Depart for the carpooling location. 2:30 PM: Arrive at the Franconia-Springfield Metro Station. *(Setting the end time to 3:00 PM to allow time for the unexpected.)* **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://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caledon_State_Park#/media/File:CaledonStatePark.png)**

🎶 Ready for a night of music, laughs, and great company? Join us at Thunderwing Brewing for Music Bingo — a fun twist on classic bingo where songs replace numbers and the good vibes keep flowing! 🎵 Sing along, test your music knowledge, and enjoy a relaxed evening with the group. 📍 Please RSVP to reserve your spot: Text Renee at 614-257-9389 (We need a headcount so the brewery can plan staffing and seating.) 🪑 Arrive early to grab a seat — feel free to bring a camping chair for extra seating. 🍔 Food trucks are often on site, or you’re welcome to bring your own food. 🐶 Bonus: Dogs are welcome, so bring your pup along too! Columbus ski club membership not required for this event. CSC assumes no responsibility for the event or any injuries as this is organized by a third party.

Sleep in on Sundays. When you've had your fill of pajama-time, roll out and have some tasty brunch with your fellow Humanists!