Botanical Gardens

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 at the low end of a C hike but, at parts, there are rocky areas that require maneuvering around and over. This is \~6 mile hike with \~500' elevation gain on various trails in Great Falls Park Virginia. There is one steep ascent and one steep descent. I hike at an average pace of 2 to 2.5, faster on level. **Route:** We'll hike on the following trails -- River Trail to Ridge Trail to Swamp-Ridge Connector Trail to the Swamp Trail to the Old Carriage Road to the Matildaville Trail, to the Carriage Road and back to the RiverTrail. We will pass the overlooks at the end of the hike for those who are interested in stopping. **Leader:** Gail Markulin (703) 402-5902 (C) **Rating:** C Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) **Meet:** We will meet at 8:45am at the Visitor's Center Parking Lot. https://maps.app.goo.gl/zqihSpcLm3gW6DJg7 **Park Entry Fee:** $20.00 or free with a park pass. **You must be experienced in hikes of this distance, pace and elevation gain.**

This our weekly game night event! We start at 6pm so that we can get dinner from Aslin Taproom. Come join us and maybe meet some new friends as we play games ranging from Fluxx to Ricochet Robots to Ticket to Ride to Saboteur to Cards Against Humanity (and many others). Bring your games or try the games that our regulars bring! That pesky covid thing is still around. Feel free to wear a mask. I have extra masks if you don't feel comfortable without one.

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. [Sweet Run State Park](https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/sweet-run) Virginia features expansive views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Sweet Run and Piney Run streams bisect the property. The property includes eleven miles of hiking and 9 miles of equestrian trails along streams, through mature forest, meadows and mountain-side terrains. It is located between Hillsboro, VA, and Harper's Ferry, WV. They have a need for volunteers to assist in doing maintenance in the park. Some hiking required. The work will involve removing water bars from the Derry Loop that are no longer doing their job and creating tripping hazards for equestrians and hikers. This will involve digging, lifting, and then re-grading the area. Bring a water bottle and work gloves. Sunscreen and bug spray/bug net are also recommended. Wear good cover from the sun and long pants. They will have a water cooler and snacks. This is your chance to do some rewarding work. We plan to work from 9:00am until noon. After the work you are welcome to bring your lunch to eat at the picnic tables afterwards. Leader: Ed Brimberg 703-944-9920 Attendees limited to 15. No dogs permitted. Park Entry Fee: None, as volunteers they will pass out hang tags to us at the parking lot. Rating: Fun Carpools: Arrive at the Dulles Transit Park and Ride at 7:45am, carpools leave at 8:00am. GPS Coordinates: 38.976317, -77.433659, [https://maps.app.goo.gl/5VB71QdWsy9KjGZi8](https://maps.app.goo.gl/5VB71QdWsy9KjGZi8). Go to the end of Pacific Blvd and turn left into the Park and Ride lot. Suggested carpool fee is $5. \*\*The leader will be at the carpool location.\*\* Driving time to the trailhead from the carpool location \~45 minutes. If meeting at the Blue Ridge Center, arrive by 8:45am work starts at 9:00am. GPS Coordinates: [39.2925, -77.7260](https://goo.gl/maps/EerEemX8pKPZe7sD7) [https://goo.gl/maps/EerEemX8pKPZe7sD7](https://goo.gl/maps/EerEemX8pKPZe7sD7) 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. This event will be postponed in the event of bad weather.

Join us between 6:00 and 9:30 to play nontraditional board games at Brew Belly restaurant in Olney, MD. Some games will be provided but please do bring along games you are interested in playing! The start time is 6:00 pm. Typically attendees will begin splitting off for their first game by 6:15, but this can vary. RSVPs let us know who to look out for, and if you will be arriving much after 6:15-6:30, shoot us a message in the event chat. That will let us know if we are slower to split off or to start with a quicker game so you can get gaming sooner when you arrive! If you have registered but find you cannot attend, please change your RSVP. See you soon!!

Join us every Monday at Loudoun Station from June 1 to August 31 for Yoga In The Park! Enjoy a complimentary fitness class and remember your mat and water.

Join us for a fun experience with conveyor belt sushi and robots that serve drinks at **Kura Revolving Sushi Bar** (Tysons location)! ***NOTE: We'll be seated in 3 groups of 4 people. Each group will have their own tab - and should be able to split the bill using the ordering tablet. In the event that is not the case, please be prepared to calculate / split the tab with your table group (include 10% tax plus 20% tip). While some may be inclined to tip less due to the high tech nature of this experience, please be mindful that tips are shared between the restaurant and kitchen staff. Thanks in advance for your consideration.*** ***Patch:*** Shoppers at Tysons Corner Center may be familiar with the revolving sushi bar on the lower level of the mall. Just minutes away from the mall, there's a standalone restaurant serving sushi and other Japenese dishes moved by a conveyor belt and drinks delivered by robots. Kura Sushi is a Japanese restaurant concept established in Japan in 1977 and expanded to the U.S. in 2008. The restaurant brand helped establish the revolving sushi concept, which features sushi plates circulated around the restaurant by conveyor belt. There's also an express belt where kitchen staff can send dishes customers order by tablet at their table. The menu features over 140 Japanese dishes free of artificial sweeteners, seasonings, preservatives and coloring. One of the restaurant brand's technological features has been drink orders delivered by Kur-B the KuraBot robot. Staff typically receive orders, place beverages on the robots and program it to deliver to a specific table. Diners place orders directly on the tablet at their table and check out on their mobile phone. The restaurant offers prizes once certain numbers of dishes are ordered. These prizes could include keychains, cable protectors and stickers. The prizes are usually available for purchase at the restaurant while supplies last. Diners can also join the Kura Sushi Rewards program, which provides a $5 reward for every $50 spent, allows diners to see live wait times, join the waitlist remotely, and receive special promotions. The restaurant brand has hundreds of locations in Japan, Taiwan and the U.S. The Tysons location is the 40th U.S. location and was the first in Virginia. Check out Kura menu [here ](https://kurasushi.com/menu/) **WAITLIST:** Meetup does not allow a waitlist for paid events. If this event fills and you are interested in adding your name to the waitlist, please send host a message through the app. To enhance the opportunity for great conversation, we would like to keep the group small. Please feel free to sign-up to meet us along with up to 2 friends. In the future, we will vary the days of the week, geography and the cost of restaurants so that we can attract many different types of diners. PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU ARE COMMITTED TO GO WHEN YOU RSVP FOR THIS EVENT. In the event our group incurs a fee for no-shows / late cancellations, your ability to RSVP for future events will be restricted. Thank you in advance for your understanding.Feel free to make suggestions for future meet locations. All diners will have their own tab to avoid any confusion. \*\* The small non-refundable registration fee helps us share the cost associated with Meetup platform ($360/year) and reduces the likelihood of no-shows, allowing us to better plan our events and accommodate attendees. Thank you in advance for your understanding!\*\* If you are unable to join us in June, we hope you'll stay interested and join us for a meal in the future. Looking forward to seeing you at Kura in Tysons!

Let's find our happy place, on the dance floor! Every Monday night. Swing dancing is a HUGE scene in this area! With ton's of live bands and dance opportunities every week! (Especially with Summer coming up on us!) so lets jump in and have some fun! New 8 week beginner lessons kick off TONIGHT! (5/4), 7pm at Colvin Run Dance Hall just off Route 7 in Great Falls. (between Tysons and Reston) These are super fun classes and no partner is needed. It's also inexpensive compared to dance studios! Registration is on the Gottaswing website. Register ahead of time to be entered into the first night drawings. Seriously this is a fun and friendly scene. Let's do it!

Create a little glass bowl garden for your (toy) dino friends! We will provide all supplies. Put on your gardening clothes and join us for this drop-in program! Ages 12 and up. While supplies last.

Pack up a blanket, lawn chairs and a picnic dinner - or grab takeout at a local restaurant! Join us at the gazebo for a laid-back evening of good music and good times with your neighbors. Jameson Green Band delivers soulful Americana infused with rock, country, and blues influences. Their performances combine heartfelt songwriting, rich instrumentation, and an easygoing stage presence that connects instantly with audiences.

Free Argentine Tango fundamentals classes weekly for OneLife McLean (Regency) members in McLean Virginia! Nonmembers may pay for the health club entrance at the door ($30) and use the club for the day, which includes the dance classes, use of the pool, weights, tennis, etc . . This series runs from 12 April through mid-June every Sunday 230-330. Following the tango class, there is a dance workout class from 330-430, also included. Drop-ins welcome, though we recommend coming early in the session if you are new to tango. If any questions, text Todd at 202-361-8633.

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 miles with 600 feet elevation gain.** **Fee Free Day!** ***Join us in celebrating Flag Day*** ***for a nice hike along the scenic Potomac River and adjoining forests of C&O Canal National Historical Park, Great Falls, Maryland.*** **Description:** We'll start our hike traveling to the Ford Mine Trail. Once completing that trail, we will then reconnect to the towpath and head to the Potomac Overlook on Olmsted Island for some great views of the falls and cascading water. After reconnecting on the towpath for a short distance, we will connect to the Gold Mine loop trail in the forest and Gold Mine Overlook and return to our cars. There are a couple of short hills while in the forest but they are small, otherwise the route is mostly level. There are a few small stream crossings on Ford Mine trail that are easily crossed. We may include the River Trail which runs along the shore of the Potomac, depending on the water level conditions. **Participants will have the option to do as much of the hike as they desire.** The pace will be about 2.5 mph. **Bring**: Adequate water/hydration, snacks/lunch, and sturdy hiking shoes since there are some rocky areas and tree roots in the forest. Restrooms are open near the Tavern visitor center. May want to also bring some insect repellent and sunscreen. **Meet:** We will meet on the sidewalk in front of the old refreshment snack bar on the right side of the parking lot before you get to the restrooms and Tavern visitor center. The snack bar is currently closed but it is under the tree canopy. Look for me by the fence anxiously awaiting your arrival. Please plan on being there at 8:45am so we can get everyone signed in and start the hike on time. **Dogs are welcome. Dog Policy** [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) ***Please note that dogs are not allowed on the Olmsted Island boardwalk, so if you bring your dog, you will have to wait for us at the entrance to Olmsted Island*** **Park Fee**: ***Park Fees waived on Flag Day.*** If you haven't hiked with me before, please provide your name, contact number and emergency contact number. You can text me the info of direct message me on Meetup. Do not pose in comments. Map of Hiking Trails at Great Falls, Maryland: [https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/upload/Great-Falls-Hiking-Map.pdf](https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/upload/Great-Falls-Hiking-Map.pdf) **Directions to Park:** [https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/greatfallstavernvisitorcenter.htm](https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/greatfallstavernvisitorcenter.htm) **GPS: 39.00223, -77.24697** Any questions, please message me on Meetup or text/call @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 will be an "out and back" hike covering 9.2 miles with 469 feet of elevation gain. We'll start at the Bike Lane Bike Shop and Brewery and hike on the W&OD , the Twin Branch Trail and the Meadowlark Connector Trail. At the end of the hike we can gather for a beer or other cold beverage at the brewery.** **Meadowlark Botanical Garden is one of the true gems of Northern Virginia and features a Korean Bell Garden.** **To quote from the** ***Washington Post***\*\*:\*\* **"The only Korean Bell Garden in the Western Hemisphere is the place to start: The centerpiece is a natural wooden pavilion — built entirely without nails — holding a three-ton bell, handmade in South Korea and decorated with flora and fauna. The garden also contains a mix of plants native to Korea and Virginia, protective figures carved from volcanic rock called dol hareubangs, walls decorated with images of flowers and symbols of longevity, and a koi pond with a fountain. "** **To quote from the Meadowlark Garden website:** **" Koi swim in Lake Caroline as if parading their gem-like scales among the snapping turtles with decades of filamentous algae streaming from arching shells. October highlights are: False aster (Boltonia asteroides), azure monkshood (Acontium carmichaelii), Canadian burnet (Sanguisorba minor)."** **We'll stop at the Meadowlark Visitor Center where you can relax, browse the exhibits or take a stroll in the Gardens (General Admission $9 with $5 for those over 60).** **We hike at a pace of approximately 2.5 mph while moving.** **You must be experienced with hikes of this length and elevation gain.** **Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy.** **https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy** **Please note only service animals are allowed in the Garden and Visitor Center so canine hikers will have to wait outside during our stop.** **Leader: Steve Frith cell 703-629-0174** **Park Entry Fee: see above description for optional stroll through the Garden** **Map for hike:** **https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-1b24bc3?u=i&sh=iypgzx**

Join us for a peaceful and inspiring Saturday morning at Glenstone on Saturday, June 20 at 10:00 AM! Nestled in Potomac, Maryland, Glenstone is a unique destination where art, architecture, and nature blend together in a beautifully designed space meant for reflection and exploration. **Admission tickets are reserved; please only RSVP if you are committed to attending and arriving on time. The ticket entry time is 10 AM.** We’ll spend the morning wandering through the indoor galleries, outdoor sculpture installations, serene walking paths, and landscaped grounds. Expect a relaxing mix of modern and contemporary art, peaceful scenery, and thoughtful conversation with fellow attendees. The campus is quite large, so comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. Many visitors spend 2–4 hours exploring the grounds and exhibits. If people are interested, we can go to lunch afterward.

Calling all foodies and gardening enthusiasts! Join us for an exclusive **Sip and Learn** event where you'll get to taste fresh, live herbs while learning how to grow your own food indoors year-round. 🌱 **Clift** will demonstrate how easy it is to grow more than **75 pounds of food** every year using **LED grow lights**—all from the comfort of your home. Whether you live in an apartment or have limited outdoor space, this event will show you how you can maximize small areas to grow delicious, pesticide-free produce. ### **What to Expect**: * **Live Herb Tasting**: Sample fresh herbs like basil, mint, and thyme, and discover their flavorful uses in your favorite dishes or drinks. * **Grow 75+ Pounds of Food**: Learn how you can grow your own fresh food year-round indoors with minimal setup. * **Indoor Gardening Benefits**: From saving on grocery bills to having pesticide-free herbs and vegetables at your fingertips, we’ll cover the perks of indoor gardening. ### **Why Attend?** * **Perfect for small spaces**—no backyard needed! * Gain expert tips on indoor gardening and sustainable food production. * A fun, engaging way to explore the benefits of fresh herbs and veggies for your meals. * Connect with like-minded individuals passionate about urban farming and sustainability. **How to Join**: Simply RSVP here to secure your spot! Bring your favorite drink or meal to pair with our live herbs. 🌿 Don’t miss out on this chance to sip, taste, and learn! Visit **[indoorgardenmarket.com](https://iwantagreenthumb.com)** to learn more, and RSVP now for a fun afternoon of herbs, learning, and indoor gardening! Thank you, Clift --- Chief Community Grower at indoorgardenmarket.com

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 and we will be hiking about 22 minutes per mile - just under 3 miles per hour. 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. We do start on time so please plan accordingly. Meet in front of the bathrooms by the parking lot. 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

Let's try something new for the wine loving bikers in our group. Biking is optional! For those that want to bike first, we will be posting as a separate meetup. We will meet down by the W&OD trail at 10:45, weather permitting. Then after an invigorating trail ride, we will meet our friends right up the road at the winery at 1:00. The Barns at Hamilton Station is on 11 beautiful acres with a restored 1910 wood bank barn transformed into the unique tasting room. Their wines are Bordeaux French style using carefully selected Virginia grapes. They will have live music starting at 2:00. We are hoping for good weather to sit outside at their picnic tables. Outside food is allowed outside only. If the weather is bad, we will move it inside and leave our food at home. Otherwise bring a picnic to share.

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 enjoyable \~ 7.3 mile hike with \~780 feet of elevation gain. We'll start by hiking through a full growth hardwood forest of Elm, Ash Trees, and Tulip Poplars, the tallest deciduous tree in North America. We'll then connect to the Potomac Heritage Trail with its wildflowers and massive Sycamore trees. The hike is a loop. Part of the hike will be along the Patowmack Channel created by a series of islands in the river.We'll take our break on a sandy beach. Thanks to Bob G for the photo. We hike at a pace of 2.3 to 2.5 mph while moving. *You must have experience with hikes of this length and elevation gain.* Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicyhttps://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolic](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) Leader: Steve Frith cell 703-629-0174 Park Entry Fee: $0.00 Map for hike: https://www.gaiagps.com/map/?loc=15.0/-77.3190/39.0474&pubLink=obOQ48o079O4P48KYoJBIMa9&trackId=b81b5829-efdf-4bad-bb66-9e9de4a74efd