Hikers and Campers

Our April book is "The Highly Sensitive Person" by Elaine Aron. Join us for exploring the fascinating trait of high sensitivity, in Dr. Aron's pioneering book! Researchers believe approximately 20% of the human population has this trait that affects every dimension of a person's life, including mental and physical health, relationships, and more. Curious if you are highly sensitive? Dr. Aron's Self-Test Questionnaire is available on her website. [Are You Highly Sensitive?](https://hsperson.com/test/highly-sensitive-test/) Also, there's recently been a documentary on the topic of high sensitivity, where Dr. Aron discusses the trait. Here is a trailer. The full movie is available for free on YouTube. [Sensitive: The Untold Story](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nXlOyGuvfVE) We'll start the meeting with each person sharing their name and one thing they found interesting or helpful about the book, then have open discussion. Here is the Amazon description of the book: "ARE YOU A HIGHLY SENSITIVE PERSON? Do you have a keen imagination and vivid dreams? Is time alone each day as essential to you as food and water? Are you noted for your empathy? Your conscientiousness? Do noise and confusion quickly overwhelm you? If your answers are yes, you may be a highly sensitive person (HSP) and Dr. Elaine Aron’s The Highly Sensitive Person is the life-changing guide you’ll want in your toolbox. Over twenty percent of people have this amazing, innate trait. Maybe you are one of them. A similar percentage is found in over 100 species, because high sensitivity is a survival strategy. It is also a way of life for HSPs. In this 25th anniversary edition of the groundbreaking classic, Dr. Elaine Aron, a research and clinical psychologist as well as an HSP herself, helps you grasp the reality of your wonderful trait, understand your past in the light of it, and make the most of it in your future. Drawing on her many years of study and face-to-face time spent with thousands of HSPs, she explains the changes you will need to make in order to lead a fuller, richer life. Along with a new Author’s Note, the latest scientific research, and a fresh discussion of anti-depressants, this edition of The Highly Sensitive Person is more essential than ever for creating the sense of self-worth and empowerment every HSP deserves and our planet needs."

**Park Map/ MD Bus** *$36. Long hike: 13 mi., 2000 ft. elevation gain. Moderate hike: 9 mi., 1000 ft. elevation gain.* The central section of the Maryland portion of AT provides one of the most popular hikes in Maryland on account of the views from Black Rock and Annapolis Rocks. Long hikers will start from Raven’s Rock Road, crossing Little Antietam Creek (a bridge is available about ¼ mile from the trail if the water runs high) and passing the Ensign Cowall shelter. Moderate hikers will begin at Wolfsville Road. All hikers will pass the Pogo campsite, and then take an optional spur trail to the Black Rock Cliffs overlook and a second optional spur trail to the view at Annapolis Rocks of the Hagerstown Valley, finishing at the parking area on Rte. 40. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 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?

**The Goombay Smartphone Photography Hike $25.00 per hiker.** ***SPACE IS LIMITED PURCHASE $25.00 TICKET TODAY:*** https://goombaydc.leagueapps.com/camps/4834744-2026-goombay-photo-hike---spring Join us on **Saturday April 18, 2026** at the beautiful **Patuxent Research Refuge in Laurel, MD** for a special **Smartphone Photo Hike**! Explore the scenic trails and learn how to capture stunning shots with your own smart phone camera. Our experienced photographer will be there to show you how to elevate your photography game! No prior experience needed – just bring your smartphone or digital camera and your enthusiasm! We'll even have light snacks and refreshments. It's the perfect way to spend a Sunday morning connecting with nature and unleashing your inner artist! **Saturday, April 18, 2025** **From 9:00am - 12:00pm (Hike begins at 9:30am)** **Patuxent Research Refuge \| 10901 Scarlet Tanager Loop\, Laurel\, MD 20708** **We will meet at the Visitors Center Parking Lot** **COST:** $25 per camper (includes: Guided Hike, Professional Photography Lesson, light snacks and refreshments) *\* Payments are non-refundable but transferable to another hiker for this event only* **HIKE DETAILS:** 3.5 Mile Beginner Trail **WHAT TO BRING:** * Your digital camera or smart phone * Sturdy hiking sneakers or boots * Small Day Pack with snacks & water * Water & Trail Snacks * Bug Repellant **AGENDA:** 9:00am-Meet in the parking lot at the Visitors Center and Check In 9:15am - Introductions and light stretching 9:25am - Pre-Hike Group Photo 9:30am - Depart for trail 11:00am - Return from hike 11:30am - Light refreshments and discussion 12:00pm - Event Ends ***\*\* There is a restroom at the Visitor Center*** ***REGISTER:*** https://goombaydc.leagueapps.com/camps/4834744-2026-goombay-photo-hike---spring ***JOIN GOOMBAY'S HIKING GROUPME CHAT*** ***[https://groupme.com/join_group/26884774/l0573V](https://groupme.com/join_group/26884774/l0573V)*** **For more details contact TK at (708) 778-3864**

**Backpacking 101** is the perfect introduction for beginners and a great refresher for those looking to brush up on their skills after time away from the trail. This hands-on course covers essential topics like selecting and using gear, improving safety and comfort on the trail, and practicing Leave No Trace principles to help protect our beautiful backcountry. Get ready to hit the trail with confidence—let’s make adventure happen! **Requirements** · Participants must 18 or older & a PATC Member · **Fee:** $100 · **Class Size:** Limited to 8 students. · **Waiver:** A signed waiver is required by PATC. **Topics Covered** * Dressing for Success – Clothing, layering, and footwear essentials * Gear Up! – Choosing the right pack, shelter, and sleep system * Backcountry Basics – Water purification & cooking on the trail * Home Sweet Campsite – Selecting and setting up your ideal spot * Leave No Trace – How to protect nature while enjoying it * Trail Hygiene – Sanitation and staying fresh in the wild * Plan & Navigate – Trip planning, maps, and finding your way **Class Structure** * Pre-Class Prep – Watch assigned YouTube videos for a head start * 2 Gear Demos & Discussions – Hands-on learning and Q&A sessions * Overnight Adventure – Put your skills to the test on a backpacking trip! **Classroom Sessions** Location: PATC Headquarters, Vienna, VA Online: There will not be an online option as this has not worked well previously. Time: 6:30pm - 8:30pm * Tuesday, April 7 * Tuesday, April 14 **Weekend Option #1:** This trip will be in Northern Virginia and includes a **6.5 miles hike (each way)** with 2,000 foot elevation. I’d rate this as “moderate" * Weekend Option #2: April 18-19 * Rain Date for Option #2: May 9-10

**Goombay Smartphone Photography Hike $25.00 per hiker** ***SPACE IS LIMITED PURCHASE $25.00 TICKET TODAY:*** [https://goombaydc.leagueapps.com/camps/4834744-2026-goombay-photo-hike---spring](https://goombaydc.leagueapps.com/camps/4834744-2026-goombay-photo-hike---spring) Join us on **Saturday April 18, 2026** at the beautiful **Patuxent Research Refuge in Laurel, MD** for a special **Smartphone Photo Hike**! Explore the scenic trails and learn how to capture stunning shots with your own smart phone camera. Our experienced photographer will be there to show you how to elevate your photography game! No prior experience needed – just bring your smartphone or digital camera and your enthusiasm! We'll even have light snacks and refreshments. It's the perfect way to spend a Sunday morning connecting with nature and unleashing your inner artist! **Saturday, April 18, 2025** **From 9:00am - 12:00pm (Hike begins at 9:30am)** **Patuxent Research Refuge \|** **10901 Scarlet Tanager Loop, Laurel, MD 20708** **We will meet at the Visitors Center Parking Lot** **COST:** $25 per camper (includes: Guided Hike, Professional Photography Lesson, light snacks and refreshments) *\* Payments are non-refundable but transferable to another hiker for this event only* **HIKE DETAILS:** 3.5 Mile Beginner Trail **WHAT TO BRING:** * Your digital camera or smart phone * Sturdy hiking sneakers or boots * Small Day Pack with snacks & water * Water & Trail Snacks * Bug Repellant **AGENDA:** 9:00am-Meet in the parking lot at the Visitors Center and Check In 9:15am - Introductions and light stretching 9:25am - Pre-Hike Group Photo 9:30am - Depart for trail 11:00am - Return from hike 11:30am - Light refreshments and discussion 12:00pm - Event Ends ***\*\* There is a restroom at the Visitor Center*** ***REGISTER:*** [https://goombaydc.leagueapps.com/camps/4834744-2026-goombay-photo-hike---spring](https://goombaydc.leagueapps.com/camps/4834744-2026-goombay-photo-hike---spring) ***JOIN GOOMBAY'S HIKING GROUPME CHAT*** ***[https://groupme.com/join_group/26884774/l0573V](https://groupme.com/join_group/26884774/l0573V)*** **For more details contact TK at (708) 778-3864**

(Bus hike) Compton Peak is notable for its set of columnar jointing of basalt crystals with their distinctive hexagonal shape. Long hikers start in Chester Gap at Rt. 522 and ascend the AT into park, with moderate hikers joining their route at Compton Gap Trail. Both hikes end at Hogwallow Flats Overlook on the Skyline Drive. The high point of the hike, both literally and figuratively, is the 2,909-ft. Compton Peak, where optional side trails lead to the columnar basalt outcrop and to a viewpoint of the Shenandoah Valley below. Each side trail adds about ½ mile and 100-200 feet of ascent to the total hike mileage and elevation gain. Est.: 10 miles, 3200' elevation and 6 1/2 miles, 1900' elevation. PATC Map 9. Fare: $33 plus park fee or pass. VA Hikes * **[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 am. * **[Vienna Metro: NORTH parking lot](http://bit.ly/vienna-bus)**, last bus shelter (Nutley St. Exit off Interstate 66 on North/Vienna side of I-66) at approximately 8:25 a.m. Park at 9486 Virginia Center Blvd, Vienna, VA 22181 * * Caution: The "south" parking lot also has bus shelters. If by 8:15, you're not with a group of Wanderbirds hikers, you may be in the south lot. There's a walkway that passes the fare gates over I-66 to the north lot. The weather report for Sunday is looking favorable. The rain in the forecast should be out of the Front Royal area well before the hike starts. Also, the unseasonable heat will subside by Saturday. RESERVATIONS Wanderbirds Hiking Club is a 501(c)(7) non-profit, and the public is invited on all hiking trips. Reservations are accepted as late as Saturday, but reserving as early in the week as possible 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. 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 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)

## Lake Artemesia Walk Join us for a relaxed, social walk around the scenic Lake Artemesia loop in College Park. This is an easy-paced group walk—perfect for fresh air, light exercise, and good conversation. We’ll complete the paved lakeside loop (\~1.5–2 miles) at a comfortable pace, enjoying peaceful water views, birds, and greenery along the way. Those who want to go around the lake multiple times, can do so. ### Meeting Point Parking lot of Lake Artemesia Berwyn Rd & Branchville Rd Entrance 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\.

**This 'Grand Circuit' hard 8mile hike is an adventurous & scenic scamper! Pace: 3mph. The trek traverses varying terrain, with rolling hills that total to \~1000ft. of elevation gain, as well as repetitious rivulet crossings**... All while circumnavigating the lustrous Lake Frank, with two tantalizing trees (including MD's 8th biggest) along the way! The hike rock hops across Rock Creek, paralleling it and another stream, sauntering up to the green and serene SUNFISH POND. The trek then weaves through the wonderous woodland, eventually arriving at a former/ historical parking lot at the Lake. The circuit shortly shies away on a spur-loop down to the official Rock Creek Trail (RCT) afterwards, creeping by a CORRODED CAR, before approaching a **rocky & abrasive, yet awesome ascent nicknamed "P.R.A.T.N.E.W"\*!** The trek then dawdles over the earthworks of the Lake Frank Dam, offering vast views (as seen above), before skirting along the shoreline. An awful ascent up the *Old Nasty trail* leads to a spur-trail en route to the PRATHER FAMILY CEMETERY/ OBELISK (pictured)... After another look at the Lake, the hike may reveal another spur to "the Point", a dramatic (maybe marshy) spot where Rock Creek feeds into the lake! The latter of the circuit begins with a 'fork in the road', of which the 'hard option' trails a narrow ridgeline via a tricky **"TRAVERSE"\***! A beguiling boulder lies just beyond. The trek then continues beneath a COVERED BRIDGE before snaking through the Smith Center-- home to a pioneer farmstead, a fire watch tower, and an obstacle course (-- possibly a future Meetup??). The hike concludes by visiting some farm animals as well as Birds of Prey, terminating with an overlook of a puny pond. NOTES: 1\. Trail Forecast= [MAP](https://montgomeryparks.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/lake-frank-meadowside-trails-map_a11y.pdf) \| Boots & Trek poles advised\.\.\. Trek trajectory subject to change\. 2.\*= **P**ainter's **R**ocks **A**nd **T**he **N**ew **E**ngland **W**ay... Please heed that this as well as (the) "TRAVERSE" ascents are precarious & not suitable for beginner hikers. 3\. Post\-social BYO Picnic Lunch\, but be sure to pack a snack too\!

The 6,300-acre Seneca Creek State Park, conveniently located in nearby Montgomery County, MD, may be most famous (or infamous) as the site of the filming of the mega-sleeper hit movie of the 90s, *The Blair Witch Project.* When the curious are not attempting to find other-worldly creatures in the dark, the Park's central features are Clopper Lake and the eponymous Seneca Creek. Our moderate 6-mile loop will feature views of both the lake and the stream, as well as a restored 19th-century cabin and the archeological remains of the Clopper estate. The park also has a peonies garden, which we will check out to see if they are in bloom. Cumulative elevation gain will be 600 feet. Bring water, lunch, bug spray, sunscreen, mud-worthy boots, $5 for trip fees, and $3 to reimburse your carpool driver. We will carpool at 10 a.m. from the Kiss & Ride section of the Grosvenor-Strathmore Metro Station. For those interested, we will stop at a watering hole before returning back to Grosvenor. Please note: We will NOT be making a pit stop en route because of the very short drive, so be sure to pack your lunch with you. Though we plan to be home long before the witching hour, take extra care to sign the Adventuring release form if you intend to linger in the Park after dark. **NOTE:** 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.

It’s finally gorgeous weather for hiking! Let’s visit Billy Goat Trail! We’re going to rock scramble on Section A. This section is 1.75 miles and considered by National Park Service as technical and strenuous, with rugged terrain of the trail involving a 50ft steep cliff face ascension. Meeting Point: free parking lot near the trail, but NOTE this parking lot fills up very quickly very early https://maps.app.goo.gl/FisVVrYkULSRjzNf6?g_st=ic Pets: not allowed by NPS on this section Duration: 2-3 hours Attire: hiking shoes HIGHLY recommended \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- If you have Instagram, you can check out our account at asiandiningandadventuregroup for photos and announcements of group outings!

Over time I'm hoping to organize a hike to all the Franklin County Metro Parks. This is the first one so if you're interested jump in! We'll start with the Canopy Walk, a cool feature of this park. Climb 100 stairs to the top - or take the elevator if stairs aren't your thing. At the top there are a bunch of things to play on - a rope bridge, a fireman pole that we can slide down - and more! About fifteen minutes there and we'll head to the natural trail, Buttonbush, Maple and Beech Trail for 2.2 miles then do a 1.7 mile loop on the paved Greenway Trail. We'll be passing our cars as we transition if you only want to do the first loop, or the second loop. Pace of around 3.5 mph but no one left behind. If there is an interest we can grab lunch nearby afterward.

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