Camping

This trip is a fastpack thru-hike of the Colorado Trail, starting at Waterton Canyon (near Denver) on June 29 and finishing in Durango around July 18–19 (ignore the meetup end date, meetup wouldnt allow the event to have a 3 week duration), in time for a July 20 flight from Denver. The route follows the Colorado Trail mainline end-to-end, covering approximately 486 miles across Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. The hike is planned assuming the ongoing low-snow year forecasts and is a fast paced, UL backpacking style hike with an average moving speed of 2.5–3.0 mph, hiking from early morning to dark, with pauses only to wait out storms. Daily mileage averages 20–30 miles, with longer days in lower terrain and shorter, conservative days in exposed alpine sections. Average daily elevation gain is 4,000–4,500 feet, with multiple days above 12,000 feet and a maximum elevation near 13,100 feet in the San Juan Mountains. Resupply is intentionally minimal to maintain momentum. Planned resupply stops are Breckenridge, Twin Lakes (quick stop), Monarch Pass, Molas campground and Lake City, with overnights in Breckenridge, Lake City, and Durango. Camping is primarily on trail, below treeline and well off high passes, with conservative camp placement during lightning-prone periods. The final stretch from Lake City to Durango (~125 miles) is treated as a single committed push with no intermediate town stops. No permits are required anywhere along the route; however, standard wilderness regulations, LNT and seasonal fire restrictions apply. Success depends on early starts, disciplined storm management, efficient town time, and steady pacing. Caltopo: https://caltopo.com/m/T9TN Nat Geo CT north and south are recommended. 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 airport or 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) 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

You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer,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. **7 mile loop with a 679 ft. elevation gain that makes the hike the equivalent to a bit over 8.5 miles.** (400 ft gain = 1 mile) Please Note: Will do hike in reverse in June 2026 **Per Park Permit Guidelines, this hike is *limited* to *20 Hikers*** **Description**: **[Rock Creek Park](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/index.htm)** is truly a gem in our nation's capital. This 1,754 acre city park was officially authorized in 1890, making it the third national park. It offers visitors the opportunity to escape the bustle of the city and find a peaceful refuge, recreation, fresh air, majestic trees, wild animals. This hike starts from the **[Rock Creek Park Nature Center](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/nature-center-and-planetarium.htm)**[ ](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/nature-center-and-planetarium.htm)(Plenty of Free Parking; closed Mon/Tues), crosses Military Road heading north along the **[Western Ridge Trail,](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/maps.htm)** over the **[Boundary bridge](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/maps.htm)** and then south following the creek to the **[Valley Trail](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/maps.htm)**, and then back to the **[Nature Center.](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/nature-center-and-planetarium.htm)** **Pace:** pace is about 2 - 2.5 mph while moving. **Bring**: adequate water/hydration, also snack/lunch, insect repellant as Tick Season is here and sturdy hiking shoes since there are rocky areas, tree roots and a stream crossing, **Dogs:** Dogs are **not** welcome on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. **Weather:** weather in this location is **[HERE](https://weather.com/weather/hourbyhour/l/NoMa+Washington+District+of+Columbia?canonicalCityId=5449cc9af33d6584872016be78d0340d)**[.](https://weather.com/weather/hourbyhour/l/NoMa+Washington+District+of+Columbia?canonicalCityId=5449cc9af33d6584872016be78d0340d) **Meetup Location:** we will meet in the parking lot of the Rock Creek Park Nature Center & Planetarium (Closed Monday and Tuesdays) at 5200 Glover Rd NW, Washington, DC 20015. **GPS Coordinates : 38°57'34.1"N 77°03'05.6"W** **Maps** **[Hiking in Rock Creek Park](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/hiking.htm)** **[Rock Creek Park](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/maps.htm)**

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 \~6 mile hike with 450' elevation gain along the Potomac Heritage Trail and various other trails in Riverbend Park which is just north (up river) from Great Falls Park. We hike at a pace of 2.5-3.0 mph when moving. [Rating: D](https://nvhc.com/hikeinfo/ratings/) Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) AllTrails Map for hike: [https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/riverbend-park--10?u=i&sh=7cs7ov](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/riverbend-park--10?u=i&sh=7cs7ov) This hike has a permit fee. I will need to collect $2.00 from everyone at the beginning of the hike. Small bills only please. Leader: Ed Brimberg 703-944-9920 (C) Meet at the parking lot behind the Visitor Center GPS Coordinates: 39.018709, -77.246025 [https://maps.app.goo.gl/8UJ2ttsiKfQ27EXw5](https://maps.app.goo.gl/8UJ2ttsiKfQ27EXw5)

Doubles Volleyball - Competitive BB-A level @Bluemont Park Let's get together to play some fun A level Doubles games at Bluemont. Format: Doubles COST: FREE Court Type: Outdoor grass Minimum Skill Requirements: BB-A level (click [here](https://docs.google.com/document/u/2/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/mobilebasic) for details) Attention: 1. This event is not always on a first come, first served basis. Those who can bring a net and ball, may get priority over others on the waitlist. 1. Since skill levels are self-reported, some attendees may not meet the expected level in reality, so we encourage you to choose a partner you can enjoy the game with, and since this is a competitive event, it is okay if you make a strong team and win all the games. 1. Since people arrive at different times, each group of 1. Players will set up and claim a net as they arrive, and may continue playing without rotating until all nets are set. ——— Smiley Social documents: [Group Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/u/2/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg/mobilebasic) [Liability Waiver](https://docs.google.com/document/u/2/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco/mobilebasic) [Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/u/2/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/mobilebasic)

Let's walk a series of trails winding around Connecticut Ave and Rock Creek Park. **Route:** * Start at Van Ness metro * Take Soapstone Valley Trail * Shortly on Broad Branch Rd to get to Western Ridge Trail * Western Ridge Trail -> Reservation 630 * A good point to bail for those seeking a shorter walk would be when we cross Connecicut Ave here * South on 34th St NW, heading to Kingle Valley Trail * Kingle Valley Trail -> Rock Creek Trail -> Zoo/AdMo Metro * NOTE: The "zoo loop" will be closed and we'll be walking along/within the Beach Drive tunnel. **Millage:** 5.4 **Map:** (two parts because gmaps won't let map trail correctly) [kamoot](https://www.komoot.com/tour/3024597933?share_token=aHA6TwA0P1uRvGgJttMbiJcdcZYAMx0V6y272W6n8abALVBU8h&ref=wtd&t_s=referral&t_cid=route_share&t_ref_username=5208720834658), [caltopo](https://caltopo.com/m/UG6R4JG) **Start Location:** Van Ness-UDC Metro Station **End Location:** Woodley Park-Zoo/Adams Morgan Metro Station **Terrain:** There will be some **unpaved** hiking trails and hills. \-\-\- We try to be punctual with our event times so please be respectful to others and show up a few minutes early. Note, we often limit the RSVPs to keep group sizes manageable. If you are on the waitlist but would really like to join, reach out to the organizer. Our events prioritize metro accessibility by meeting and ending at metro stations. Sometimes we start/stop at the same station, sometimes we do not. Please double check the event description to see if you can manage transportation. If you've enjoyed our walks please consider donating a few bucks to help us keep this group running (meetup is expensive!). [Donation Link](https://venmo.com/code?user_id=2158403661070336114)

Lake Artemesia and Univ. of MD DCC's "Monday Moves" to Lake Artemesia and the Univ. of MD Join DCC and Conte’s Bike Shop (Navy Yard) for a fun ~35 mile round trip that includes the Univ. of MD and Lake Artemesia. Depending on the day, we also ride this route in the reverse direction. Starting from Conte’s, we ride across the Fredrick Douglas Bridge and along the Anacostia River Trail to the Northern Branch Trail with a stop at the Bladensburg Water Front Park. We take the Northern Branch Trail to College Park, where we ride through the Univ. of MD. Campus and then on to Lake Artemesia. We return to DC straight down the Anacostia River Trail. This ride will be geared towards our newer riders (with a chill pace and no one left behind), but all are welcomed. The ride is on streets, trails and sidewalks. There will be a safety briefing to help riders become more comfortable with riding in groups. We will meet at Conte’s Navy Yard Bike Shop at 10 am and depart at 10:15. All riders should bring their own hydration and nutrition, as well as a spare inner tube. *** Please, no music that can be heard by other riders or ear headphones that impede your hearing. Parking is limited at the Navy Yard, so for those driving, an option is to park at Anacostia Park (aquatic center) and take 11th street bridge to M Street, then a left on 4th. ****all riders ride at their own risk**** If there is a chance of inclement weather expected on Monday, a cancelation notice will be posted by 9:00 pm on Sunday; otherwise, the ride will take place. Below are links to the route: (~32 miles and~ 394 ft of elevation) https://ridewithgps.com/routes/46315848 (~32 miles and~ 387 ft of elevation) https://ridewithgps.com/routes/46315884 (Reverse Route)

Brisk 3- to 4-mile urban hike starting and ending at the Wet Dog. Adult beverages to follow the hike. Closest metro U Street.

Let's go backpacking and check out the Independence Day fireworks from Signal Knob Overlook. I anticipate that we'll be able to see the fireworks going off over [Strasburg](https://www.strasburgva.com/home-page/page/july-4th) and [Middletown](https://visitwinchesterva.com/event/middletown-4th-of-july-parade-and-fireworks/) (maybe others?). Splits are 9.6/4.1 miles. Here's the route I'm thinking: [https://caltopo.com/m/GMUJN1L](https://caltopo.com/m/GMUJN1L) **Saturday July 4** * We'll meet up at Vienna Metro around 8:30am. * Drive from Vienna to the Signal Knob Trailhead parking (Sheetz stop planned in Gainesville) ([Google maps](https://maps.app.goo.gl/RBD48x7Rgoh5NjUb7)) * Anticipate we'll be at the Signal Knob trailhead parking lot around 10:30 am. * Take the trail West and loop back around to a campground near signal knob. (**Note**: that it will be a dry camp on the ridge during a hot and humid weekend, so plan to bring lots and lots of water.) * We should have a lot of down time at camp or at the overlook, so I'm planning to bring an UNO deck, camping chair, book, beverages, etc. * We'll watch the fireworks displays from Signal Knob Overlook. **Sunday July 5** * Hike back to the cars (\~4 miles) * Grab breakfast or brunch on the way back to DC **If you are an "applicant" (meaning that this is your first DCUL trip), please send me your gear list ASAP.** For an explanation of DC DUL membership ranks: https://dculbackpacking.com/about/membership/ DCULers have maps! Here are a few map resources: * PATC Map G ([https://shop.patc.net/products/map-g-massanutten-mt-north-half?variant=47655962575066](https://shop.patc.net/products/map-g-massanutten-mt-north-half?variant=47655962575066)) * NatGeo Map 792 ( [https://www.amazon.com/Massanutten-Mountains-Washington-Geographic-Illustrated/dp/156695388X](https://www.amazon.com/Massanutten-Mountains-Washington-Geographic-Illustrated/dp/156695388X) ) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ **Waiver**: By RSVPing to this trip or any other DC UL trip, you agree to these guidelines and to DC UL's waiver liability terms: [https://dculbackpacking.com/about/liability-waiver/](https://dculbackpacking.com/about/liability-waiver/) **COVID-19 policy**: [https://dculbackpacking.com/about/covid-19-guidelines/](https://dculbackpacking.com/about/covid-19-guidelines/) **Dues**: Members and above, don't forget to pay your annual dues. You can check 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. To pay your dues via PayPal, use this link: **[https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/JenniferAdach/15](https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/JenniferAdach/15)** ($10 annual dues plus a $5 suggested donation to City Kids Wilderness Project.) **Carpool**: As per our carpool policy, riders should pay drivers $0.10/mile. Passengers should anticipate paying around $13 or $14 for this trip.

**IMPORTANT -** If you are not 100% committed please do ***not RSVP.*** No shows will be de-propritized for future events. We got rained out on Memorial day - so let's try this again on July 4th weekend! The Mount Rogers/Grayson Highlands loop hike is an iconic section of the Appalachian Trail, located in the southwestern hills of Virginia within the Jefferson National Forest. This region is best known for its vast mountain views and alpine peaks with **wild ponies** roaming about. This area is also home to Virginia's highest point, Mount Rogers, sitting at 5,729'. This is a premier east-coast backpacking destination, so don't miss this one. ## **Trail Facts** * **Difficulty Level:** Moderate * **Length:** 21.4 Miles * **Duration:** 3 Days * **Elevation Gain:** 3,898 Feet * **Bear Canisters:** Not Required * **Permits:** None * **Dogs**: Allowed * **Meetup/Carpool:** Vienna Metro South * **Trailhead Parking:** 36.6893579, -81.5320954 * **AllTrails Map**: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/mount-rogers-and-appalachian-trail-loop-958adb5?u=i&sh=rak641 **Trail Details:** We will meet at The Vienna Metro station on Friday morning at 8am and drive to the Mt Rogers Trailhead (off Rt 603). This parking lot is **NOT** the paid lot near Masie Gap, and so can fill up. I'd like to try to get there as early as possible. The drive is about 5 hours. I will drive and am happy to have others carpool with me - but please note, I will have my small black labrador in the back seat. **Day 1** After we park, we will hike about 7 miles to our campsite, diverting once to summit Mt Rogers. There arent any views here, but it's worth the .3 miles to say you've been to the highest point in VA! We will camp on the first night at the scenic tent sites near the Thomas Knob Shelter on the AT. There is water at this site and we may see wild ponies if we're lucky. **Day 2** The second day is about 10.7 miles, which includes spectacular views, unique rock formations and wide open grassy meadows. We will camp near the Old Orchard Shelter. There is a spring with water at this site as well. **Day 3** The third day will be a short 3.5 mile hike from camp back to the cars. Getting to the cars early will mean that we should get back to DC around 4-5pm. On the drive home, I plan to stop at Martin's in downtown Roanoke (413 1st St SW, Roanoke, VA 24011). **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 * Water bottles or hydration system (capacity for at least 2 liters)​ * Water filter or purification tablets​ * Headlamp with extra batteries​ * Rain gear * Dry bags or pack cover​ * Warm clothing layers (non-cotton) * Trowel for 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 enterainment * Gaiters​ * Sunscreen, lip balm, insect repellent​​ **CARPOOL:** Don't forget if you want a ride or are willing to offer a ride – be a friend to the environment, save money, and make friends. **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!

TRADING THE DANCE FLOOR FOR THE TRAILS The disco lights are taking a breather, but Social Sips & Bites is keeping the high energy alive in the great outdoors. We are hitting the trails, and the timing couldn't be better. National Park Service is waiving its usual vehicle entrance fees for Free Entry Day, so we’re bringing the whole DMV community together for an epic morning of fresh air, jaw-dropping views, and massive group vibes. Whether you’re recovering from the last party or prepping for the next one, this is the perfect excuse to get outside, move your feet, and meet some incredible people. From the rushing waters of the Potomac to the winding, shaded dirt paths, this isn't just a walk in the park. It’s a chance to unplug, swap stories with familiar faces, and explore one of the absolute best natural wonders right in our backyard. No RSVP cap, no exclusive guest list. Just good people, great views, and unmatched Sunday energy. See you on the trail! 🙌

[https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45899232](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45899232) 26.1 miles. Lunch is at the Great Falls overlook 18.2 miles into the ride. There are toilets at Great Falls and Fletchers' Boathouse. We will e-bike from Glen Echo Park in Maryland to the majestic Great Falls. We will be biking on the Capital Crescent Trail, the C&O Canal pathway, and McArthur Blvd with separate biking lanes. This tour captures the essence of adventure and natural beauty. We will be meandering alongside the serene Potomac River and the C&O Canal, offering E-bike Lovers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in the lush landscapes that define this region. Glen Echo Park, with its rich tapestry of cultural and artistic heritage, serves as the perfect prologue to a journey that gradually unfolds into the wild, untamed beauty of the Great Falls. The route is just over 26 miles on gravel and asphalt. The gravel is compact. If you don't like the gravel on the C&O Canal pathway, this is not your route. Entrance to the Great Falls National Park is for free as we enter from the C&O Canal. We park at the large parking lot off Oxford Street, NOT at the smaller lot at McArthur Blvd. Please bring snacks, lunch and plenty of water. FYI: Ride With GPS E-bike Lovers Club membership is now for free as [www.ebikelovers.com](http://www.ebikelovers.com/) generates sufficient income from ads to cover the costs. Here is the link to activate your free membership: [https://ridewithgps.com/auto_approve/Club/6746/Zwa5jhttF5mJrFbN](https://ridewithgps.com/auto_approve/Club/6746/Zwa5jhttF5mJrFbN) The group stops a few times for slower riders to catch up. **REMEMBER:** This is a self-guided event. This event empowers each participant to take the lead, as there are no designated bike leaders within E-bike Lovers. We all embrace the role of leaders in this self-guided experience. Please RSVP only if you are coming so we know how many E-bike Lovers will participate. We enjoy a nearly 100% RSVP success rate. Thank you so much for your help! As usual, non-assisted bikers are most welcome. DISCLAIMER LIMITATION OF LIABILITY: TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMISSIBLE PURSUANT TO APPLICABLE LAW, NEITHER GREGORY MAASSEN, NATHAN MERRIS, RICHARD CAMER TRIP COORDINATORS, THEIR AFFILIATES, FAMILY AND FORMER AND CURRENT EMPLOYERS NOR ANY OTHER PARTY INVOLVED IN CREATING, PRODUCING, OR DELIVERING E-BIKE LOVERS GUIDES, OUR MEETUP EVENTS, AND THE GPS E-TRAILS IS LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, INDIRECT, EXEMPLARY, OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF A USER’S ACCESS TO, OR USE OF THE E-BIKE LOVERS GUIDES, OUR MEETUP EVENTS, AND THE GPS E-TRAILS. See for the full disclaimer: https://ebikelovers.com/disclaimer

Join us for a 2.4 mile hike along the Alum Creek Trail south from Casto park to Strawberry Farms park and back. This is a fully paved flat trail along Alum Creek. Come and enjoy a great hike with us!

**Hike the Scioto Audubon trail. All paved and flat!** **Plan on 3-4 miles. Hike at your own pace, no one left behind.** **Lunch after at Nocterra for those who wish.**