Bicycle Touring

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)

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 292 feet elevation gain.** **Description:** From **Columbia Island Marina,** within Lady Byrd Johnson Park, we will make a brief stop at the LBJ Memorial Garden. We will then connect to the Mount Vernon trail and hike to Theodore Roosevelt Island where we will do a short loop on the island and view the Memorial. After that, we'll cross the Potomac River on Key Bridge, and hike downstream along the Georgetown Waterfront Park to the Kennedy Center to admire the view from the observation deck. After the break we will hike to the Lincoln Memorial and recross the Potomac on the Arlington Memorial Bridge and reconnect to the Mt Vernon trail returning to our starting point. **Pace:** 2.5 mph **Bring:** Adequate hydration, also snack/lunch, and sturdy hiking shoes. **Dogs:** Dogs will not be allowed on this hike. We'll meet in the parking lot of the **Columbia Island Marina,** GW Parkway, Arlington, VA. **GPS 38.87544, -77.04896** **NOTE:** The hike starts at 9:30am, please arrive a few minutes early so we can get folks signed in and ready to hike on time. Restrooms are available at the marina and several locations along the way. **Rehydration**: Yes, TBD Any questions please contact me at 202-528-0456. If you text, please include your name.

Please join Juanatán for his first hike of the year. This easy journey of 7 miles along Gallows Road and the W&OD Trail is a great way to ease back into hiking after the holiday season. We will meet at the Dunn Loring Metro Station at 11:00 AM, which is where we will begin and end our hike. ## **Trail Facts** * **Difficulty Level:** Easy * **Length:** 7.0 Miles * **Duration:** 4-5 hrs (Including our mid-hike meal.) * **Elevation Gain:** 190 Feet * **Permits:** None. * **Parking:** Dunn Loring Metro Station (38.881420295263695, -77.23054005314158) (Garage parking is free on weekends.) * **Dogs:** Not allowed. (The restaurant stop is built into the hike.) * **Trailhead Coordinates:** 38.88278986565736, -77.22841745233727 * **AllTrails Map**: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-5227c8e?u=i&sh=kucj8c **Trail Details:** Our route will take us from an urban landscape to a ¨green¨ corridor and back. While there won't be much greenery at this time of the year, we may see some birds and mammals along our route. **Itinerary:** 11:00 AM: Meet at the trailhead. 11:15 AM: Depart the trailhead. 12:30 PM: Arrive at Caboose Brewing. 2:00 PM: Start return trip. 3:15 PM: Arrive at trailhead. *(Setting the end time to 4:00 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://maps.app.goo.gl/6LLSkiWQqqbBiycJ7)**

**29 miles – mostly flat and on bike trails with two hills.** **Suitable for advanced beginners and above.** **Register here:**[ ](https://washingtonwomenoutdoors.wildapricot.org/event-6504974)**[Exploring Mason Neck Bicycle Ride](https://washingtonwomenoutdoors.wildapricot.org/event-6504974)** $15.00 for non-members, free for members. Join us for a great ride in Virginia, near Lorton. This ride visits Gunston Hall, Pohick Bay Regional Park and Mason Neck Park with views of the Potomac River and Belmont Bay. Mason Neck Park is a major refuge for bald eagles, osprey and other birds that migrate through the area. The ride is mostly flat on bike trails with just two hills. Suitable for all bicycle types. As with all WWO rides, we will have a leader and sweep, and no one will be left behind. 1. **You must register and pay for this event on our website at this link:** **[Exploring Mason Neck Bicycle Ride](https://washingtonwomenoutdoors.wildapricot.org/event-6504974)**. Register early on our website to reserve your spot! 2. ***No further trip details will be provided on Meetup.* Upon completion of registration, trip information will be forwarded by email**. If you do not see confirmation email from Washington Women Outdoors in your in-box, immediately check your spam folder. If you're not ready to register for this event and would like more information, please email: [bike@washingtonwomenoutdoors.org](bike@washingtonwomenoutdoors.org) **Find out about WWO Member benefits [here](https://washingtonwomenoutdoors.wildapricot.org/Membership)[.](https://washingtonwomenoutdoors.wildapricot.org/Membership)**

One of Adventuring's quirkier traditions is a trek on some stretch of the sprawling Gettysburg Battlefield in mid-January, during what statistically should be the coldest time of year. The secret to keeping warm is to maintain an invigorating pace, with fewer and shorter interpretive stops to discuss the events of July 1863. Plus, we always wind up our day by warming up in a cheerful local tavern with suitable refreshments, alcoholic or otherwise. The advantage we derive by traipsing around the battlefield at such a seemingly inauspicious time is that we can see and appreciate things normally blocked to view when the leaves are out. This year, our itinerary will focus on parts of the battlefield involved with Pickett's Charge, perhaps the most spectacular debacle in American military history. We will hike through segments of both Union and Confederate lines and wind up marching in the very footsteps of the brave but doomed Rebels charging across open fields into the maws of the Army of the Potomac. Our story climaxes with perhaps the most heavily witnessed and recorded same-sex kiss in the entire Civil War. Afterwards we shall repair for recuperation and refreshments at an appropriate town watering hole. Total length of our easy-to-moderate loop hike should not exceed 6 miles, with deceptively little elevation gain over rolling and muddy and/or icy terrain. Bring beverages, lunch and sturdy winter-worthy footwear, and dress in layers. Carpool passengers should pay their drivers $15, and everyone will pay the $5 Adventuring trip fee, cash or Venmo. There will be a pit stop en route at a Sheetz for those wishing to draw rations there. We will gather to form our carpool at 9 a.m. on the Sunday of the MLK Birthday weekend in the Kiss & Ride lot of the Grosvenor-Strathmore Metro Station and should return by 6 p.m. Please [click here](https://adventuringlgbtq.com/Adventuring_Release_Form.pdf) to review our release form. When you RSVP to an event, you affirm that you have read and agree to the terms of the release.

This is the second hike of a preparation/progression series that builds up to the AMC 150 Relay segment scheduled for 3/29/26. That relay segment will be 8.3 miles. This second hike in our preparation series is five miles in length (out and back). It’s a flat rail trail on a section of the WB&A Trail, so it is rated as easy. If you are recuperating from injury, got busy with work and family, or otherwise feel the need to get in hiking readiness for the year ahead, this hike will work great for you. Feel free to join with no commitment to doing the relay segment or any other hike in this series. All participants must register individually for the hike at [https://activities.outdoors.org](https://activities.outdoors.org/) so that the waiver is signed and an emergency contact is provided. No dogs. The WB&A Trail is a converted rail-trail, converted from an electric commuter railway that served Washington, DC, Baltimore, and Annapolis. The trail winds its way between Prince Georges County and Anne Arundel County, offering a mix of woods, water, and residential communities along the asphalt path. A bridge across the Patuxent River was completed in Spring 2025, now linking Prince George’s County and Anne Arundel County. (We will not see the bridge on this 5-mile hike.) The trail offers a peek behind the curtain of suburbia, with marshy wetlands, woods, bridges and tunnels, along with some trail sections that pass through residential neighborhoods and some road crossings. Participants should expect a mostly relaxed walk with little elevation. Note: As of December 2025, no bathroom facilities are available for the 5-mile hike, so careful with that coffee consumption in the morning! The meeting point is off of main roads, so stop at a gas station or fast food restaurant on your way in to take care of your bio break. A bit about the AMC 150 Relay: we’re celebrating AMC’s 150th Birthday! From March to October, volunteers from AMC are offering events galore—a succession of hikes and other outdoor activities from Virginia to Maine, to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the organization’s founding in 1876. Though historically rooted in New England, over time AMC has expanded and established regional chapters through the Mid-Atlantic, including today’s host, the Potomac Chapter. We will meet at the parking lot [location available upon registration]. Severe weather such as heavy rain or poor winter conditions will cancel. If in doubt, or have any questions, contact leader by 7:30 AM day of hike. Leader Desiree Smith/ 410.934.9470 (phone or text).

Hike changed due to road closure! This is a secluded out and back hike in the Veach Gap area of the George Washington National Forest near Front Royal, VA. Most of the hike is a gradual ascent through Veach Gap, with a beautiful overlook at the high point. We'll meet at the Veach Gap Trailhead at 1000 AM. COORDINATES ARE 38.87611, -78.377781 The group will move at the usual pace (around 2.5 mph) and stop for a break at the top to enjoy the view. Expect the hike to take about 3.5 hours. Don't forget water and something to eat! Afterwards we’ll head to Vibrissa Brewing in Front Royal for a drink and something more to eat. They have a full menu of food. Hike link: https://myhikes.org/trails/veach-gap-and-south-fork-overlook-hike Brewery link: https://vibrissabeer.com/front-royal/ CARPOOLING: We encourage those with cars to be willing to carpool - you're the ones who make LMH great! Please consider carpooling - the parking lot is small! 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. By signing up for this event, you acknowledge and agree that Late Morning Hikers, its volunteer organizers, and drivers who volunteer to carpool are not responsible or liable for accidents, injuries, damage, or losses that may occur while traveling to or from the hike. Late Morning Hikers does not condone or encourage impaired driving. Drivers are expected to follow applicable laws and make responsible transportation choices. We look forward to hiking with you! **Background information about the group:** Please remember that this group is an informal group of friends and volunteers initiating trips under the common adventurer model (http://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're also not experts or 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 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. Acting responsibly and safely includes always making sure that you stay with a group (we advise using the buddy system) and staying on, or within sight of (if you need to answer the call of nature or avoid an obstacle on the trail), marked trails at all times. If you ever believe you may be lost, follow the advice of the US Forest Service (https://www.fs.fed.us/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://www.meetup.com/Late-Morning-DC-Hikers-25-45/pages/12710332/Waiver_of_Liability/)

This out-and-back moderately strenuous hike within the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests includes mountain views, unique rocky terrain, and beautiful overlooks. We will hike on the Buzzard Rock Trail and turnaround after a break at the overlook. The hike is about 6.2 miles with approximately 1,387 feet of elevation and is known to be rocky. **Hike Route**: [https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/overlook-via-buzzard-rock](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/overlook-via-buzzard-rock) **Hiking Pace**: We typically hike about 2 mph (faster on flat sections, slower on hilly / rocky sections); however, we leave no one behind and will move at a pace that is comfortable for all. **What to Bring**: At least two liters of water, emergency contact information, personal first aid kit and medications, snacks/meal, sunscreen, insect repellant, trekking poles if you use them, sturdy hiking footwear. Please leave pets at home. **Time to Meet**: Please meet by 8:45 for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 9:00 am. If you can't make the hike, please cancel your RSVP by 6 pm the night before to allow others on the waiting list to join. There is often limited/no cell service in the area, so hike leaders may not receive messages the day of the hike. **Meeting Place**: Google Map to Buzzard Rock Parking Area: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/moycivj2XfMXLXgH9](https://maps.app.goo.gl/moycivj2XfMXLXgH9) **Facilities:** No bathrooms **Contact Information**: Please use the comments feature for routine comments and questions. The hike leaders are Marc (571-422-5210) and Tim (202-744-0289). Call or text if needed. **Hike Details** -Rating: Moderate -Distance: Approx. 6.2 miles -Elevation Gain: Approximately 1,387 feet -Pace: Average about 2.0 miles per hour -Fees: N/A **Cancellation**: In the unlikely event that the hike needs to be cancelled, it may be cancelled up to the evening before the hike. Hikers will be notified through comments on this posting. **Weather**: The weather for this location can be found [here](https://weather.com/weather/today/l/7611596c9eed8df601933cfa85ff3eeef158583e0252228e1428e824b442a8f6). **Notes**: -You must sign up by 9:00 PM the day before the hike. -Please do not show up unregistered. -Please keep this a fragrance-free event. -Please leave pets at home. -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). -Attendance is limited at the discretion of our hike leaders. PATC rules do not permit children under 18 years to participate in a hike without a parent or guardian present.

**PATC Map 5-6 / MD Bus** _$36. Long hike: 11 mi., 1500 ft. ascent. Moderate hike: 8 mi., 1100 ft. ascent._ This explores the northern portion of the Catoctin Trail, which meanders through dense hardwood forest and broad meadowlands. Long hikers follow the Catoctin trail from its origin at Mount Zion Rd., while moderate hikers start from Park Central Rd. within Catoctin Mountain Park. All hikers go to Cunningham Falls to enjoy its view. Then they continue on the Catoctin trail to the Manor Area Campground, stopping at Bob’s Hill for a view from the overlook. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- RESERVATIONS Capital Hiking Club is a non-profit group, and the public is invited on all trips. Reservations are accepted as late as Friday, but reserving before Wednesday night helps ensure your spot and prevent cancellation of the hike due to low sign-ups. RSVP through Meetup and pay through PayPal. Please be sure your RSVP gives your full name and phone number and where you'll be boarding the bus. We don't want to leave you behind! Because this is a paid event, we cannot offer a waitlist should the hike fill up. If spots subsequently open up, they will become immediately available to anyone and everyone. 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 at least a 2 mph pace. BUS STOPS: MARYLAND ROUTING Please arrive 10 to 15 minutes before times listed below. All our bus stops are Metro accessible. If you're driving to meet the bus, we strongly advise using the Grosvenor bus stop, as parking is extremely limited at the others. Bus stops and times are as follows (click links for maps): * **[DC: Near 17th and K St. NW](https://bit.ly/17thandKnu)** downtown (east side of Farragut Square). Bus leaves at 8 a.m. SHARP, so it's essential to arrive well before 8. * **[Connecticut Ave. and Porter St,, NW, northeast corner](http://bit.ly/ConnecticutPorter)**. Bus briefly stops at the curb in front of the Broadmoor Apartments to pick up hikers about 8:10 a.m. * **[Connecticut Ave. and McKinley St., NW, southeast corner](http://bit.ly/ConnecticutMcKinley)**. Bus stops at the bus shelter in front of the Safeway to pick up hikers about 8:20 a.m. * **[Grosvenor-Strathmore Metro Station, North Bethesda](http://bit.ly/Grosv_Metro)**. Bus stops at the bus shelter nearest to Metro Station walkway entrance between the station and the parking garage about 8:30 a.m. LIABILITY By RSVP'ing for a CHC hike, you acknowledge and accept that hikers are responsible for their own safety and must assume risks and liability for all outings. CHC leaders, officers, and representatives shall not be liable for any injuries, loss or damage to persons or property, direct or consequential, arising out of any trips or club activities. Participants will be asked to sign a waiver the day of the hike. CANCELLATION POLICY To cancel and receive a full refund less a $5 processing fee, you must change your RSVP to "No" on Meetup **before 12PM the Thursday** before the hike. If you change your RSVP after 12PM the Thursday before the hike, no refunds will be issued. MORE DETAILS -- **[SEE THE FAQS ON OUR WEBSITE](https://www.capitalhikingclub.org/hikes-faqs)** for answers to questions such as these and many more: * What should I bring on a hike? * Can things be left on the bus during the hike? * When will the bus return to the metro Washington DC area? * Can I drive my car and meet the bus at the hike destination? * Are dogs allowed on hikes?

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)

***Registration required at Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy -*** [Birding Algonkian - Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy](https://loudounwildlife.org/event/birding-algonkian-january/) Join Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy on a search for birds at the Algonkian Regional Park in eastern Loudoun County. This bird walk takes place each month except December. With extensive frontage along the Potomac River, its rich bottomland forests, extensive wetlands and grassy areas combine to make it Loudoun’s top birding hotspot. Bring binoculars if you have them. We’ll meet at the boat ramp next to the parking lot.

This is an opportunity for volunteers to support a professional mechanic as he guides customers working on their own bikes. If you know how to do some basic repairs, that's a plus, but even if you don't, you can greet customers and manage who gets helped next. Feel free to attend for only a portion of the time if you can't be there the whole three hours. Please note that this event is not usually an opportunity to learn about bicycle repair, since the mechanic tends to be very busy helping customers, especially during the warmer months. But it's a great way to contribute to Velocity, since almost all the funding for the volunteer program comes from the work done at the shops.

Dulles Town Center Mall Hike: Meet at the entrance to the right of the Regal Movie Theater. A Test of Endurance Join us for a 6-mile trek through the treacherous terrain of Dulles Town Center mall. This hike is rated as physically easy, but don't be fooled - the mental challenges will push even the most seasoned hikers to their limits. Hazards Include: The intoxicating aroma of freshly baked Cinnabon, threatening to derail even the most disciplined of diets. Endless rows of high-end storefronts, beckoning you to indulge in some serious retail therapy. Balmy 70-degree temperatures, lulling you into a false sense of comfort. Blinding fluorescent lights, capable of disorienting even the most experienced navigator. Will You Emerge Victorious? Afterwards we'll head over to The Bungalow Lake house 46116 Lake Center Plaza, Sterling, VA 20165 for their delicious brunch cuisine.

Come volunteer with us refurbishing donated bicycles so that they can be used again by the community! This event is open to new volunteers and existing volunteers. No mechanical experience is necessary. Note: The warehouse location is in the alley behind 1502. Enter through the gray door next to a roll-down garage door. If you drive to the location, be sure to park in the street, not in the alleys or parking lots surrounding the warehouse. And wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty with bicycle grease! Volunteers under 18 need a parent or guardian to accompany them to their first volunteer experience and sign a liability waiver. Volunteers under 16 need a parent or guardian to accompany them at all times while volunteering with Vélocity.

Join us as we head to the new Reservoir Regional Park in nearby Loudoun County for a winter hike around Beaverdam Reservoir. This is a great wintertime outing with a scenic 7.5-mile loop trail that follows the reservoir’s shoreline and winds through quiet, wooded sections. Even in January, this is a nice hike with bare trees creating open views across the reservoir and occasional wildlife sightings like wintering birds. The route is mostly flat to gently rolling with natural dirt and gravel surfaces. [https://www.novaparks.com/parks/reservoir-park](https://www.novaparks.com/parks/reservoir-park) Our meeting location for carpooling will be at the south side Kiss and Ride lot at the **Innovation Center** Metro station (13747 Sunrise Valley Drive, Herndon). We will depart at 10:00 and there will be a stop at Sheetz on the way to the park. Dress for the conditions and bring water, lunch, mud-worthy hiking boots and the $5 Adventuring trip fee. Additionally, carpool passengers should pay their driver $5. Depending on group interest, there may be an optional brewery stop after the hike. For those who want to meet us at the park, we will convene outside the Welcome Center at 10:45. The park address is 22211 Water Vista Drive, Ashburn. RSVPs will open on January 3 and close at 9 p.m. the night before the hike. This hike will be not be held in the event of inclement weather so please stay tuned for updates if you register. If your plans change, please update your RSVP status accordingly. Please [click here](https://adventuringlgbtq.com/Adventuring_Release_Form.pdf) to review our release form. When you RSVP to an event, you affirm that you have read and agree to the terms of the release. Everyone must RSVP on their own behalf.