Hikers and Campers

**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!

We'll check out Caboose Commons: 2918 Eskridge Rd, Fairfax, VA 22031 This location is 15 min. walk to Dunn Loring metro station. And there are public parkings at Mosaic. Please have a picture profile so we can recognize you in the meetup. Please only sign up if you're sure about attending this meetup, and please update your RSVP as soon as possible if you need to cancel, thank you!

Are past negative experiences hindering your ability to live a happy life? Are you ruled by negative emotions? Possibly you have a thought or emotion that hangs around for days and you just can't shake it. What is all this stress, anxiety, depression, acting out and self doubt? It's just crazy! It's not the real you. You **can** find out what is at the root of all this. There **IS** technology to relieve the pain of a lifetime. Areas you can be helped with: Control of unwanted emotions Lack of confidence Grief Anxiety Anger management Creating ideal relationships Depression Memory and more... This is an in-person class that can start you on the way to a better life, more confidence and less negativity. All the happiness you have lies within you. Let's find it! We only use natural proven techniques, called Dianetics; no drugs or labeling. This Zoom webinar is an introduction to proven techniques from the book "Dianetics, The Modern Science of Mental Health". This group is sponsored by the Dianetics and Scientology Life Improvement Center of Washington, D.C. Call 202-797-9826 with any questions and to register! You are welcome to arrive 15 minutes early for refreshments!

🍸 SKYLINE SIPS: Rooftop Happy Hour at Hip Flask 🌇 Take your Friday night to the next level — literally. Join us for a rooftop happy hour at Hip Flask in Bethesda, where we’ll enjoy great drinks, skyline views, and a perfect summer evening atmosphere. This is one of our signature summer events — the kind of night where you can relax, socialize, and take in the sunset with a cocktail in hand. Whether you’re coming solo or with friends, you’ll find a welcoming group and an easygoing vibe. 🌆 What to expect: Beautiful rooftop setting with skyline views Sunset → nighttime city vibes Craft cocktails and drink options A social, upbeat crowd (20s & 30s) Great mix of new faces and regulars ⏰ When: Friday, July 3 | 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM 📍 Where: Hip Flask, Bethesda, MD Feel free to arrive right at 7 to catch the sunset or drop in anytime — we’ll be up on the rooftop. Check the event chat if you need help finding the group. ✨ Friendly reminder: Please RSVP so we can plan accordingly. If your plans change, update your RSVP to open the spot for someone else. Let’s sip, socialize, and enjoy one of the best rooftop nights of the summer 🍹🌇

Do you want more Calm and Chill after having suffered trauma in your life? This is a free, interactive Zoom event. Maybe you have suffered a traumatic experience, a deep loss or been through a painful breakup? After that, you try to move on but you just can't. Possibly you have a thought or emotion that hangs around for days and you just can't shake it. What is all this stress, anxiety, depression, and self doubt? It's just crazy! It's not the real you. You can find out what is at the root of all this. All the happiness you have lies within you. Let's find it! Start on the road to handling the pain of a lifetime! Refreshments will be served. Call to reserve your seat 202-797-9826. Sponsored by the Dianetics and Scientology Life Improvement Center of Washington DC

The road to the World Cup continues! Join Volo as Argentina takes on Cabo Verde in a win-or-go-home World Cup showdown! **What you can expect:** 🍺 **2 Free Anheuser-Busch products** **Free Giveaways**\- Registered players receive a koozie and a stress ball or beach ball *(while supplies last).* 🔥 Exclusive, soccer-themed Volo Pass swag (Members Only, [sign up here](https://www.volosports.com/volo-pass)) **Registered Volo Pass members** also score an exclusive FIFA T-shirt *(while supplies last).* Bring your friends, wear your Argentina or Cabo Verde gear, and come ready to celebrate, cheer, and enjoy the game together! Note: General admission and entry to Wunder Garten is free, but the immersive Volo experience and perks are available only with this registration. [Volo Registration](https://www.volosports.com/d/56eb7b0b-1776-4c89-a942-4c6f5e884bef)

**Lake Frank, An Easy Side of Moderate 5.2 Mile Hike** SEE IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON REGISTRATION UNDER NOTE Nestled in the heart of Montgomery County, Maryland, Rock Creek Regional Park offers natural tranquility and outdoor recreation. Covering 1,800 acres, this park is a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and families. With its woodlands, lakes, and a bounty of activities, the park offers an escape in every season. At the core of Rock Creek Regional Park’s appeal is its rich and varied landscape. The park’s expanse is punctuated by two bodies of water: the 75-acre Lake Needwood and the 55-acre Lake Frank. These lakes, with their calm surfaces and lush surroundings, provide both scenic vistas and a hub for aquatic activities. The park’s dense woodlands are crisscrossed by miles of trails—winding routes that meander along lake shores, through forests, and across open meadows. The diversity of the landscape ensures that every visit feels fresh. This hike will explore Lake Frank. The trail for our hike begins at the Lake Frank parking lot. The Lake Frank and Meadowside Trails surround the lake, each offering beautiful views of the lake and meadow fields. The trail is mostly unpaved and traverses through the woodlands surrounding the lake. After heavy rains we may encounter some mud. Hiking boots are recommended. **Time to Meet**: Please meet at 9:15 for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 9:30 **Directions to Trailhead**: The address is "Lake Bernard Frank, Avery Rd Parking Lot." The GPS Coordinates are 39.10477, -77.12071 . **Contact Information**: Please use the comments feature for routine comments and questions. The hike Leader is Tim; 202-744-0289. Call or text as needed. **Details** Rating: Easy Side of Moderate Distance: 5.2 miles Elevation Gain: 380 feet Pace: 2.0 to 2.5 miles per hour **Facilities**: There are no toilets on this hike **Fees**: No entrance fees **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/a9f5966a559ae26dc60a72084e897d24e700f53a7e68319989b7992a5f5f60ac). **Notes**: -PLEASE RSVP IF YOU PLAN TO ATTEND THIS HIKE. SHOULD YOUR PLANS CHANGE KINDLY UPDATE YOUR RSVP BY NOON THE DAY PRIOR TO ALLOW SUFFICIENT TIME TO FILL YOUR SPOT. IF YOU ARE ON THE WAIT LIST IT IS IMPORTANT TO SIGN OUT AS SOON AS YOU KNOW YOU WILL NOT ATTEND BECAUSE MEETUP MOVES PEOPLE AUTOMATICALLY TO THE GOING LIST ONCE A SPOT OPENS. SIGNING OUT AFTER 6 PM WILL BE CONSIDERED A "NO SHOW" AND REPEATED INSTANCES MAY RESULT IN BEING BARRED FROM PARTICIPATING IN FUTURE HIKES LED BY THIS ORGANIZER. -Please do not show up unregistered. -Please keep this a fragrance free event. -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).

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! 🙌

\|\(Trailhead hike\) Explore the unusually varied terrain of Jug Bay\, with its combination of tidal freshwater marshes\, forested wetlands\, upland and riparian forest\, creeks\, meadows\, pine and sand barrens\, and fields along the Patuxent River\. Both hikes will go along the Purple Loop\, Brown Loop\, Blue Loop\, and Green Loop\. At the Red Loop\, long hikers will turn left to go clockwise and moderate hikers will turn right to go counter\-clockwise\, both reaching the connector trail to the Blue Loop\. Hikers have the option of visiting the museum and Visitor Center afterwards\, and the view from the observation tower close to the Visitor Center is not to be missed\. Est\.: 11 miles\, 700' elevation and 7 miles\, 500' elevation\. Park map\. Fee: $5\. | | | --- | | **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 a 2-mph pace. New hikers are required to first complete a moderate hike. **LIABILITY WAIVER** Many of our hikes take place in remote wilderness areas where cell phone service is not available. Any person participating in any Club activity is responsible for their own safety, health and welfare, and must assume all risks and liabilities related to all Club activities. The Club, its hike leaders, hike sweeps, officers, and other representatives are not liable for any injuries, losses, or damage to persons, children, pets, and/or property, arising from any trips or activities of the Club. You are responsible for bringing enough water, food, and first aid supplies, including those for your personal medical conditions. **CANCELLATION POLICY** To cancel and receive a full bus hike refund, less a $5 processing fee, you must change your RSVP to "No" on Meetup **before NOON on the Friday** before the hike. If you change your RSVP after noon on the Friday before the hike, no refunds will be issued. Cancellations to Metro/carpool/trailhead hikes will not issue a financial refund, but hiker must change their Meetup RSVP to NO so that leaders do not wait for them at the trailhead. **COVID-19, FLU, RSV PRECAUTIONS** Anyone experiencing symptoms of upper respiratory illness should not attend the event. MORE DETAILS -- [SEE THE FAQS ON OUR WEBSITE](http://www.wanderbirds.org/faq.html)

(Cancelled because of excessive heat forecast. Hope to reschedule soon.) Another Fourth Of July is about to explode all around us, so it's time to renew the annual Independence Day hike at Great Falls (MD), an Adventuring tradition started by the late, great Damon Miller. This will be an easy round-trip stroll of about five miles, starting and ending at the historic Great Falls Tavern on the C&O Canal. Shortly after our start downstream, we will detour off the Canal towpath across Bear and Olmstead Islands to the Falls Overlook, where we can savor its ever-fabulous view of Great Falls. Retracing our steps to the towpath, we will pass several locks and the impressive Widewater Basin. Our turnaround point near Anglers Inn just beyond Widewater features nearby restroom facilities. Our return leg will be on the Berma Road atop the Washington Conduit that carries Potomac River water down to the Georgetown Reservoir. Once we're finished our hike back at the Tavern, we'll head over to the nearby picnic grounds to enjoy our lunches. Those who are still thirsty after our bully summer endeavor may consider adjourning to Anglers Inn for refreshments, if there's any room at the Inn. Bring plenty of beverages, lunch and/or snacks, sunscreen, bug spray and the $5 Adventuring trip fee; carpool passengers from Tenleytown Metro should also give their drivers $5, plus a share of the Park Admission Fee in case the entrance stations are staffed. (Bring a National Parks Pass if you have one; it will get your entire carload in for free.) Those needing rides and those able to offer rides will form our carpool at the Tenleytown Metro Station in front of the Panera at Wisconsin Avenue and Albemarle Street at 11 a.m. Carpool participants will rendezvous at the Great Falls Tavern with those driving directly to the Park at 11:45 a.m. The Tavern's address is 11710 MacArthur Boulevard, Potomac, MD 20854. We should finish by 3 p.m. NEW! 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.

[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

Similar to our "Beginner Ride", a casual, on-road-avoiding, cycle-path-winding, beginner friendly, group ride. The ride will be led by Maya and Angie, who have a combined 50 years of cycling experience. This is a no drop ride with an average speed of 7- 12 mph. Please bring a helmet, lights, a snack, hydration and wear appropriate clothing for cooler weather (cotton is not your friend in cooler temps and we will be riding in the dark). The ride can be tailored to the skills that attendees want to master, i.e- drinking from water bottle while riding, making tight turns, riding in a small group and cycling etiquette. We will be riding mainly on trails, streets as minimally as possible, and sidewalks only when necessary. This ride is perfect for someone who hasn't ridden in a while and wants to get some easy miles on the saddle; not just for newbies. If you have not ridden your bike in several weeks, months or years, please have a safety check done before the day of the ride. We are just here to have fun.

Guys, we need to do this slow. Mishki gets overheated, so we take breaks from time to time, plus there may be other folks who walk slow. To make everyone feel included in the group experience, we walk slow, we wait and are kind. **Meeting Spot**: We gather at the main parking lot close to the park entrance, under the trees. **Lake Artemesia Walk – College Park** Join us for a relaxed, easy-paced walk around beautiful Lake Artemesia. A chance to unwind, enjoy nature, and connect with others in a calm, welcoming setting. We’ll walk the scenic loop, take in the lake views, and enjoy light conversation along the way. All fitness levels are welcome. **Main parking lot: 55th Ave & Berwyn Rd,** College Park, MD 20740 Bring plenty of water, whatever you need for your hike, and your awesome authentic self. Keep it easygoing. RELEASE OF LIABILITY & ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT: By being a member of this Group, RSVPing to any Activity, or participating in any Activity, You accept and agree to the terms and conditions described below: 1. You acknowledge that hiking in nature carries the risk of potential harm to yourself, including the risk of injuries such as broken bones or muscle/tendon injuries, illness, disability, or death. 2. You agree that You will at all times be responsible for Yourself and Your own safety. 3. You release and hold harmless with respect to all injury, disability, death, or loss of property, whether caused by negligence or otherwise, this group's leadership and members for the hikes that you participate in. 4. You acknowledge and agree that this Group is merely a collection of friends or potential friends who enjoy doing activities, and that in no event does any Organizer or Other Member assume any responsibility or liability for You. 5\. You agree not to sue and to release\, discharge\, waive and hold harmless all organizers and other members from and against all liabilities\, claims\, demands\, losses\, damages\, suits and proceedings\, for negligence\, carelessness or any other cause which you may have or that hereafter may accrue arising\, resulting from or related to your membership in this group or participation in any activity\.

If you are interested in selecting investment choices for your 401(k) or other workplace savings plan, minimizing your income tax liability, or identifying the most effective investments for your brokerage account, we are the group for you. We are a local chapter of Bogleheads, whose investment strategy can be found here: https://www.bogleheads.org/wiki/Bogleheads%C2%AE_investment_philosophy Or you can peruse the Boglehead forum here: https://www.bogleheads.org/index.php I look forward to seeing you there. Mark Vonder Haar