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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out campmobile events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the campmobile events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
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Campmobile Events Today
Join in-person Campmobile events happening right now
Canal and Billy Goat B Trail Nature Walk
**DESCRIPTION**: Hurray! C & O Canal National Park's Billy Goat B trail has finally reopened, Let's walk it now before extensive undergrowth blocks our views. Less than 3 miles in less than 3 hours, this is a slow walk, **but on very rocky terrain** with slopes and a stream to cross. We will make full stops to enjoy exceptional river scenery. So much to see and hear and enjoy with many natural curiosities (impressive rock formations, long river vistas and islands and white water stretches, overlooks to climb, beaver lodges, and possibly bird and frog songs).
**MEET** at the red brick restrooms building by 1:00 PM for introductions. Hike starts by 1:15 PM and ends around 4:00 or so.
**ADVISORY**: This walk is NOT recommended for anyone with stiffness, balance, bending nor range of movement problems. My companion, last week, slipped and fell (not injured). Using poles and watching our footsteps, when we get to rocky and steep parts, we may stoop and stretch in a gingerly manner. The trail, itself, is 1.4 miles and the canal towpath back adds another mile or so to make a loop. https://liveandlethike.com/2016/09/17/billy-goat-trail-section-b-chesapeake-ohio-canal-national-historical-park-md/
**WAIVER:** All participants will sign a Sierra Club sign-in sheet with waiver before we set off on our walk.
**BRING**: (Weather forecast is for 80 degrees Tuesday.) Lots of water and sturdy hiking footwear with grooves and traction are essential, hiking pole(s) (We will cross a stream), back pack, sun hat, sun block, layers for changeable hot weather, old plastic shopping bag or other to sit upon, snack, binoculars, camera.
D&D Campaign Pitches & Forming Groups
Whether you're a player looking for a campaign, or a DM looking for players, this is the event for you! We'll meet and have DMs pitch their games and then open time for Q&A (players to talk to DMs, trade contact information, or ask more questions.)
**IF YOU OR YOUR GUESTS ARE UNABLE TO ATTEND, UPDATE YOUR RSVP**
**Agenda:**
1900 - Arrival, gather, find seats
1915 - DMs pitch their campaigns
2000 - Open mingle, trade contact info, talk with potential groupmates
All player and DM experience levels are welcome!
**For DM Consideration:**
When thinking of how to pitch your game, be sure to include the following details:
* Game system
* Location
* Day/Time
* Frequency of sessions
* Number of players wanted
* Campaign concept
* Tone of the game
* Any fun (but spoiler-free!) details that will really spark interest in your game!
From Matt Colville:
Pitching Your Game: Running the Game: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MtH1SP1grxo](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MtH1SP1grxo)
We'll be pretty informal and allow questions after each pitch. No need to over-prepare, but do think of how best to sell players on your campaign! Also, while this is a D&D group, feel free to pitch a different game system if you'd like.
**For Player Consideration:**
Before you arrive, consider your preferences in terms of play schedules, location, campaign style, etc. Other than that, just bring your curiosity and sense of adventure!
We'll meet in Paradise Games and Gifts (new name of GCPD). If I am not there greeting people and guiding them to our reserved area please kindly ask a staff member to point you in the right direction.
**Contact:**
Any questions or concerns?
Discord Server Invite https://discord.gg/Zj58w85XuW
Looking forward to seeing everyone there! If you have any questions, please comment below or contact Alejandro (Discord: MagicalKuyo).
De Clieu - Reston
Like their Fairfax location, this cafe has lots of options for bites and drinks, and some unique house made syrups. Friendly staff, dedicated parking, and plenty of seating. Let’s chill Tuesday morning to set us up for a productive rest of the day.
(No discussions on politics, religion or potentially controversial topics. We're here to relax and have fun. Just be respectful and we'll be alright. Pay your own way, and enjoy!)
Gentle Yoga for Mobility & Stability
* Experience a gentle yoga practice that offers options & allows you to choose how to care for your body
* All levels encouraged
* In person
* Reserve your space: [https://square.link/u/jF5cSTGh](https://square.link/u/jF5cSTGh)
🏆 Tyson’s Corner Indoor Scavenger Hunt
We’re turning Tysons Corner Center into a competitive indoor playground for one hour. We’ll meet on the 3rd level cafeteria, split into teams, and race through the mall completing photo challenges for points. Every task requires at least one team member in the picture — so no cheating and no solo lurking. Creativity, strategy, and teamwork will matter just as much as speed.
After 60 minutes, we’ll regroup at TGI Fridays to tally points, laugh at the best photos, and crown the winning team. No purchases required — just good energy, fun people, and a little competitive chaos.
📍 Plan
• Meet: Level 3 Cafeteria
• Form teams
• You get 1 hour
• Regroup + scoring at TGI Fridays
⸻
📸 IMPORTANT RULES
1. At least ONE team member must be in EVERY photo.
2. No purchasing required.
3. Be respectful to staff and shoppers.
4. All items must be photographed inside the mall during the 60 minutes.
5. Creativity > speed.
⸻
📝 SCAVENGER LIST (Points Attached)
🧥 Fashion & Style Finds
1️⃣ A celebrity picture – 5 pts
2️⃣ An extremely ugly sweater – 6 pts
3️⃣ Shoes that look impossible to walk in – 6 pts
4️⃣ A mannequin posed in a dramatic or awkward way – 5 pts
5️⃣ An outfit over $1,000 total (estimate tag prices) – 8 pts (extra 5 points If you’re wearing the outfit)
6️⃣ A jacket that looks straight out of the 90s – 5 pts
⸻
💎 Random & Unexpected
7️⃣ The most expensive item you can find (price visible) – 10 pts
8️⃣ A product that makes you say “who is buying this?” – 7 pts
9️⃣ Something glittery and over-the-top – 5 pts
🔟 A completely all-white outfit display – 6 pts
1️⃣1️⃣ A product with a name you can’t pronounce – 6 pts
1️⃣2️⃣ A tiny item with a surprisingly high price – 7 pts
1️⃣3️⃣ Strike your best runway pose inside Zara - 5 points
⸻
🍔 Mall Energy
1️⃣4️⃣ A dessert that looks ridiculously unhealthy – 5 pts
1️⃣5️⃣ A seasonal or holiday decoration – 5 pts
1️⃣6️⃣ A team member pretending to be a mall security guard (respectfully staged) – 6 pts
1️⃣7️⃣ A window display that makes no sense – 5 pts
1️⃣8️⃣ Take a group pic representing 3 different cuisines (no buying required) - 6 points
1️⃣9️⃣ Team selfie in front of the giant directory - 5 points
2️⃣0️⃣ Get a stranger to take a picture of all of you sleeping on a bed - 10 points
_______
📍 Mall Items
2️⃣1️⃣ A red tote - 2 points
2️⃣2️⃣ A purple tie - 2 points
2️⃣3️⃣ Chocolate - 2 points
2️⃣4️⃣ A pair of neon-colored sneakers - 3 points
2️⃣5️⃣ A watch priced over $1,000 - 3 points
2️⃣6️⃣ A pair of sunglasses - 1 point
2️⃣7️⃣ A perfume bottle shaped in a unique way - 2 points
2️⃣8️⃣ A stuffed animal bigger than a backpack - 4 points
2️⃣9️⃣ A coffee cup with latte art - 4 points
3️⃣1️⃣ A candle with a food-related scent - 2 points
3️⃣2️⃣ A phone case with glitter - 1 point
3️⃣3️⃣ A denim jacket with patches or designs - 5 points
3️⃣4️⃣ A sale sign that says “70% OFF” or more - 5 points
3️⃣5️⃣ A winter beanie with a pom-pom on top - 6 points
3️⃣6️⃣ A backpack with a cartoon character on it - 2 points
3️⃣7️⃣ A pair of platform shoes - 2 points
3️⃣8️⃣ A necklace with an oversized pendant - 3 points
3️⃣9️⃣ A seasonal decoration display - 2 points
4️⃣0️⃣ A store window featuring only one color theme - 5 points
4️⃣1️⃣A dessert covered in sprinkles - 2 points
4️⃣2️⃣A mannequin wearing a bold patterned outfit - 5 points
4️⃣3️⃣A hoodie with a large graphic logo - 4 points
⸻
⭐ BONUS POINTS
• Compliment a stranger (reaction videoo) – +5 pts
• Get a stranger to join your team photo – +8 pts
• Funniest team name – +5 pts
• Most coordinated team pose across 3 photos – +7 pts
• Best dramatic “return to Fridays” entrance video – +10 pts
• Random act of kindness caught on video – +6 pts
• Funniest caption when posting (optional IG story tag) – +5 pts
⸻
🏆 Winning Team
Most total points wins.
Tiebreaker = loudest crowd applause at Fridays.
Vibe Coding: A Skeptic's Guide to Finding Your Rhythm in AI-Assisted Development
DC iOS returns to the Capital One campus for another meetup! Come and meet with fellow Apple developers in the DC Area, enjoy some food, networking, and a great tech talk!
PLEASE INDICATE IF YOU WILL BE ATTENDING IN PERSON OR OVER ZOOM.
**Agenda:**
• 5:40 PM - Doors Open (in-person attendees). **Don't forget your ID!**
• 6:10 PM - Welcome (in-person and Zoom attendees)
• 6:15 PM - **Talk: *Vibe Coding: A Skeptic's Guide to Finding Your Rhythm in AI-Assisted Development***
• 7:05 PM - Community Announcements & Networking
• 8:00 PM - Doors close
**Talk Description:**
**Vibe Coding: A Skeptic's Guide to Finding Your Rhythm in AI-Assisted Development**
Leo Dion
I didn't trust AI hype. But building thousands lines of production Swift taught me: AI can get you 70% there but expertise is still required. From skeptic to pragmatic builder, I'll share when AI shines, where it fails, and how to thrive in the AI era. No hype, no doomerism—just reality.
Zoom Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83088929804?pwd=NinZzqyxxo8Cw1KSU1rMrPey8cxr2M.1
**Location:**
Capital One, C2 Building
1680 Capital One Drive, Mclean VA, 22102
100A
Visitor parking is either in the garage attached to 1680 Capital One Drive, or the open lot next to 1600 Capital One Drive. After that you will walk over to the main entrance of 1680 Capital One drive, and then walk around the right to the corner to room 100A
For the metro, take the Silver Line to the McLean metro stop, then walk into main campus (about a 5 minute walk). From there, walk to the main entrance of 1680 and then go to room 100A
**What you need to bring:**
ID
**When to arrive:**
Doors open at 5:50pm ET
Event will start at 6:10 pm ET
**Will food and drinks be provided?**
Yep!
**Will there be rapid testing provided?**
No
**Will masks be required?**
No
Campmobile Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Beaverdam Reservoir Park & Lark Brewing Co.
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.
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.\*\*
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
GRID Fix & Flip Bootcamp
**Launch Your Real Estate Investment Business & FLIP Your Income in 30 Days**
If you’ve been thinking about getting into real estate investing but haven’t taken action yet, this bootcamp is designed for you.
The GRID Fix & Flip Bootcamp is a 2-day, in-person intensive in Reston, VA, followed by 4 weeks of guided virtual accountability, built to help you move from interest to execution—without quitting your job or guessing your way forward.
Register now:
[www.gridflipbootcamp.com](http://www.gridflipbootcamp.com)
This is not a seminar or a motivational event.
It’s a hands-on experience focused on real decisions, real properties, and real next steps.
**What You’ll Learn & Do**
**Day 1 — Find & Fund**
* Define your ZONE and build a personal buy box
* Learn where real deals actually come from
* Understand how real estate deals are funded, including options that don’t require your own money
* Review real deal structures, numbers, and examples
**Day 2 — Fix & Profit (In the Field)**
* Walk active and completed renovation projects in the field
* Learn what actually adds value in a renovation—and what wastes money
* Evaluate rehab costs and scopes on site
* Make smarter flip vs hold decisions using real properties
You’ll also leave with a clear 90-day action plan and participate in 4 weeks of weekly virtual accountability sessions to help you follow through after the weekend.
**Who This Is For**
* People working a 9–5 who want to build wealth through real estate
* Professionals and entrepreneurs looking for an additional income stream
* New or early-stage investors who want a clear starting point
* Agents who want to move beyond transactions and into investing
**Meet Your Mentors**
This bootcamp is led by **Rob Chevez and Mark Beckett,** experienced real estate operators who have built, funded, and executed real deals in real markets.
**Rob Chevez**, Founder and CEO of GRID Capital Partners, has led and participated in over **$2B in real estate transactions** and built a national investor ecosystem focused on turning earned income into long-term wealth. He brings a systems-first, execution-driven approach to launching and scaling investment businesses.
**Mark Beckett** brings **25+ years of hands-on experience** across real estate development, investing, and construction. His background spans acquisitions, land development, and renovations throughout the Mid-Atlantic, with deep expertise in what actually works—and what doesn’t—on site.
Together, Rob and Mark teach from active experience, not theory—so what you learn is grounded in real decisions, real numbers, and real execution.
**The GRID Guarantee**
If you buy, sell, or invest in a deal with us within 12 months, your full tuition is credited back.
Register now:
www.gridflipbootcamp.com
**🎟 Bonus:** Bring a spouse or team member at no additional cost ($5,000 value)
**👥 Seats are limited** to keep the experience hands-on and interactive
No prior experience required.
No need to quit your job.
Just a willingness to take action.
If you’re ready to stop overthinking and start building real momentum in real estate, this bootcamp is built for you.
Lockhouse Stay - Pennyfield Lock to Seneca Quarry / Swains Lock (14.2 miles)
Let's continue exploring the historic lockhouses along the C&O Canal, this time staying in a primitive one -- Pennyfield Lock, located by Lock 22. As this is a primitive lockhouse there are NO modern amenities (running water, electricity, heat, or kitchen), and so you will need to bring everything you need to stay comfortable during this one-night stay. We can enjoy some easy hikes along the towpath and through the nearby Blockhouse Point Conservation Park during our visit.
Due to the location of the lockhouse, a carpooling spot has not been established. A WhatsApp group will be created closer to the event and will be used to coordinate rides and other event logistics. We will plan to meet at the lockhouse at 11:00 AM on Saturday morning.
## **Trail Facts**
* **Difficulty Level:** Moderate
* **Length:** 14.2 Miles
* **Duration:** 4.5-5.5 hrs
* **Elevation Gain:** 506 Feet
* **Permits:** Juanatán will provide overnight parking permits to drivers.
* **Parking:** Carpooling will be coordinated via WhatsApp.
* **Dogs:** Not allowed inside the lockhouse, sorry.
* **Trailhead Coordinates:** 39.05497688136813, -77.29032396969912
* **AllTrails Maps**:
* https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-af4793c?u=i&sh=kucj8c
* https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-9e94313?u=i&sh=kucj8c
**Trail Details:**
We will arrive at the parking lot near the lockhouse at 11:00 AM on Saturday morning. We won't be able to check in, so we will go on a hike to Seneca Quarry, where we can explore some old structures that used to be part of the canal system. We will take a slightly different route back through Blockhouse Point Conservation Park. By then we will be ready to check in to the lockhouse.
Everyone will need to carry their gear 0.1 miles from the parking lot to the lockhouse. There is no kitchen inside and no running water, so keep that in mind when planning dinner. We can all relax, perhaps play some games, and check out the lockhouse.
Closer to nightfall we will go on a short 3-mile hike to Swains Lock where we can enjoy a nice view of the sunset. We will then hike 3 miles back in the dark to the lockhouse and perhaps play games or enjoy a fire before bed.
The next morning everyone is on their own for breakfast. Keep in mind that we need to clean up and be out of the lockhouse no later than 10:00 AM.
The maximum capacity of the lockhouse is eight people. Depending on who signs up it may be necessary to rearrange the provided trundle beds or bring sleeping pads so we can spread out and make sure everyone has a comfortable sleeping arrangement. You can learn more about the lockhouse [here](https://www.canaltrust.org/lockhouse-22/).
Since this is a rustic lockhouse, I will only need $10 from each participant to cover the cost of the reservation. I accept PayPal, Venmo, and cash. :)
I'm looking forward to this relaxing trip. Please let me know if you have any questions.
**Saturday Itinerary:**
* 11:00 AM: Meet at the trailhead, start hiking.
* 3:00 PM: Check into the lockhouse, get set up, eat, play games, etc.
* 6:00 PM: Hike to Swains Lock, enjoy the sunset, hike back.
* 9:00 PM: Potentially enjoy a fire or simply go to bed.
**Sunday Itinerary:**
* Everyone can get up whenever they want to, keeping in mind that we need to clean up and check out of the lockhouse no later than 10:00 AM.
**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://www.canaltrust.org/lockhouse-22/)**
Paws, Pines and Pints
Join the [Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy](https://www.loudounwildlife.org/) and [A Fighting Chance Foundation](https://www.afightingchancefoundation.org/about) for a special fundraising event at Lost Rhino Brewing in Ashburn VA on Friday, March 13th. Come out to enjoy a fun Friday night of music, friendship, and great food and drinks, all for two great causes!
**Special musical guests** – The Outpatients (Northern VA band well known for their Americana musical mayhem).
**Tickets: $10** at the door, with all proceeds benefiting Loudoun Wildlife and A Fighting Chance.
Lost Rhino is also graciously donating **10%** of all sales to both organizations.
Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy is a volunteer-powered nonprofit working to protect, preserve, and restore wildlife habitat while shaping a Loudoun where people and wildlife thrive together. Learn more at: [https://www.loudounwildlife.org](https://www.loudounwildlife.org/)
A Fighting Chance is ensures that all pets are given the best chance possible to recover from a life-threatening medical condition or accident regardless of the financial circumstances of their caregivers. Learn more at: [https://www.afightingchancefoundation.org/about](https://www.afightingchancefoundation.org/about)
Scenic but Short Hike w/ Off-Trail Trekking @ Camp Seneca pk
**This scenic scamper is a \~2mile moderate hike that has uneven terrain & is relatively flat.** Pace: 2mph. The trek traverses Camp Seneca park, home to [the Lodge at Little Seneca Creek](https://montgomeryparks.org/parks-and-trails/lodge-little-seneca-creek/) which hosts various social gatherings, as well as a charming corridor of a Creek sharing the same name.
After egressing from the Lodge the circuit STEEPLY ascends a hill, disappearing off-trail into the wilderness. Summiting this proud plateau offers vacuous views of the surrounding landscape. The hike then follows a faint fire road, occasionally obstructed by downed trees, revealing a small stream. Navigating away from the stream and towards little Seneca Creek traverses through viny **thorns & brambles!**
Latter of the circuit parallels the creek, at times CAUTIOUSLY cliff side, featuring a delightful Beaver Dam & creek cascade (pictured) before eventually concluding back at the Lodge via lollygagging across a lavish lawn. Terrific lean-mean-green trees along the way too!
NOTES:
1\. Trail Forecast= [AllTrails MAP](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/activity-january-22-2025-5ef0599-2) \| Boots & Trek Poles advised\!
2\. Consider "thicker\- wear" for the thorns/ brambles\.
3\. Post\- social @[Chicken Pocha](https://maps.app.goo.gl/hi1s5HvXgBfbdGbBA) \| [menu (Korean fried chicken/ bbq)](https://chickenpocha.com/menu/)
Energizing Walk for Busy People!
Join our weekly walking meetup to have fun, maintain a healthy lifestyle, meet new people, and enjoy the weather! We meet Saturdays at 10am, halfway between the Reston *Container Store* and *Not Your Average Joes* (by the metal benches), leaving no later than 10:05.
Every week, rain or shine, we start by walking along the Green Trail to reach Lake Anne Community Center. Once there, we pause for water/bio (often staying a few minutes extra from April-November, due to the local Farmer's Market), and then we circle Lake Anne and head back to our starting point. It's roughly 3-4 miles and takes about an hour and a half.
Afterwards, some members will often head to *Not Your Average Joes* or another local restaurant for a quick drink/meal before tackling the day.
This event is open to all ages and fitness levels. Dogs are welcome, and we recommend dressing for the weather (umbrella, water, snow shoes, hat, etc.) since we'll walk rain or shine. Also, feel free to bring a friend!
By signing up, you accept and assume all risks and responsibilities with this activity, and nobody will be held liable.
Campmobile Events Near You
Connect with your local Campmobile community
PATC Women’s Spring “ Camping” Weekend Getaway
Join Us for a Women’s Glamping Getaway Weekend at OBX! We invite you to experience a fantastic weekend of glamping at KOA Hatteras.
Whether you're looking to reconnect with nature, unwind with friends, or simply take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life, our Women’s Glamping Getaway offers the perfect escape.
Nestled in the serene beauty of the Outer Banks, this weekend promises not just comfort and relaxation, but also a chance to forge new friendships and create lasting memories.
Accommodation Options Include:
Tent Camping
Camping Cabins (without bathrooms)
Deluxe Cabins
Vacation-Style Rentals
With prices ranging from $50 for a tent camping site to $150 for a Deluxe Cabin or Vacation-Style rental, there’s a variety of lodging options to suit everyone's needs.
The cabins can accommodate 2 to 6 people, while the vacation rentals can house up to 4 people.
Activities:
Guided Nature Walks: Explore the stunning landscapes of Hatteras Island.
Exploration of OBX Towns to include historic and nature related sites
Evening Bonfires: Share stories and laughter around a cozy bonfire, complete with s'mores and good company.
Dining Options:
Whether you’re craving a casual meal or an upscale dining experience, there’s a wide array of culinary delights to satisfy every palate. Regardless of your preference, the neighborhood is sure to provide a dining option that meets your culinary wishes. Alternatively, if you enjoy cooking over an open flame, the campsite is equipped with grills for your convenience.
This unique retreat is designed to offer you a blend of adventure and relaxation, ensuring you return home feeling refreshed and inspired. Reserve your spot today and embark on a journey of tranquility and camaraderie!
Due to the number of individuals interested in attending, each person will be responsible for arranging and covering their own lodging and meals. If you'd like to share accommodations, please feel free to post your preferences.
https://koa.com/campgrounds/cape-hatteras/
LM: Off the Beaten Track in SNP (Oventop)
Time for something different! This is a repeat of a trip we did in 2019 to explore one of Shenandoah’s many bushwhacks. This one will lead us to Oventop, which should yield great views of the park and the surrounding valley.
The credit for this trip goes to Russ Evans, a long-time DC UL member, who was incredibly knowledgeable about these abandoned trails and shared that knowledge. We wanted to do something in tribute to him--so join us for what should be a nice outing.
(You can read the original trip report [here](https://dculbackpacking.com/2019/03/11/a-thru-hiker-a-family-and-dc-ul-walk-into-a-shelter-oventop-snp-trip-report/).)
The overall distance is short (I think 15 miles in total for the trip), but bushwhacking can be slow and difficult -- you'll want to be comfortable with doing an off-trail route.
The plan: gather at Vienna at 8:30 a.m. and head out. We’ll drop off cars at the Buck Hollow trailhead along 211 and then proceed to the Pass Mountain trailhead. We'll make our way along Pass Mountain and depart the main trail to head towards Oventop. We'll aim to keep the group close for this section, as this is our off-trail portion of the trip. We'll enjoy the views and then make our way back to Pass Mountain trail. We'll follow it up to the AT--our home away from home will be the Pass Mountain Hut for Saturday night.
Sunday, we'll hop on the AT and take it south up and over Mary's Rock. From there, we'll take Meadow Spring to either the Buck Hollow or the Buck Ridge trails and follow that back to the cars.
Weather-wise, anticipate cold conditions—it’s March, so we could see anything from sun to snow up in Shenandoah. I'll update with the forecast closer to the trip.
We’ll have GPS tracks for the trip--look for those to be shared closer to the trip.
Group size is limited to 10.
The Fine Print
\- Total round\-trip distance is roughly 140 miles\. Per DC UL recommended guidelines of about $0\.10 per mile\, expect to chip in about $14 to your driver if you're catching a ride\.
\- Members and above\, don't forget to pay your annual dues\. You can 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\. To pay your dues via PayPal\, use this link: https://www\.paypal\.com/paypalme/JenniferAdach/15 \($10 annual dues plus a $5 suggested donation to City Kids Wilderness Project\.\)
\- By RSVPing for this trip\, you acknowledge that you’ve read our COVID\-19 guidelines \(https://dculbackpacking\.com/about/covid\-19\-guidelines/\) and that you agree to DC UL's liability waiver terms\. \(https://dculbackpacking\.com/about/liability\-waiver\)
In-Person Disaster+Travel+Wilderness First Aid Certification Class
Hands-on learn how to save life & limb, when mired in the wilderness of an urban disaster zone, travel or rural area far from hospital, or natural area miles from an access point, during the critical minutes or hours before ambulance arrival. Come away with actual do-it-yourself care-giving skill and confidence, and 2-year SOLO certification. Counts as WFR Recertification, too. No prerequisites.
YOUR SPOT IS NOT RESERVED UNTIL YOU'VE COMPLETELY REGISTERED AT WWW.SOLOWFA.COM \***Spaces are limited. REGISTER: www.solowfa.com or 434.326.4697**
Can't make these dates? Check out more course locations and dates on our website.
WHO: Open to the general public, adults & teens with solid attention spans. Know your loved ones are safe wherever they are.
WHY: Mired in a disaster zone, travel or rural area far from a hospital, or natural area miles from an access point ... accidents, destructive weather, and terrorism happen, and all-too-often members of a group are not capable of dealing with the emergency. This leads to improper care of the patient, and endangers the entire group. Many recreational accidents are preventable, and improper care of trauma can compound even simple injuries. Very few first aid programs actually address the issues of providing emergency care in a setting where 911 is overwhelmed or not immediately reachable. In this course, classroom instruction and Q&A are interwoven with practical work and problem-solving exercises. Hands-on experience - a most powerful learning tool - during scenarios comprise \~50% of class.
TIMING: This is a 2-day class, Saturday and Sunday, 8:00am -7pm each day.
Fee: $295 (Earlybird) $325 (If registering less than 30 days before class)
Take a Hike! @ Difficult Run to Great Falls Park
Join us for an easy hike along the **Difficult Run Trail to Great Falls Park** and kick off your day with **great company** and engaging conversations! The trail is **mostly flat**, but a **246-foot incline within Great Falls Park** will give us a fun little cardio challenge. Don’t worry - we’ll pause at the top to regroup, hydrate, and catch our breath while soaking in the views. Whether you're here for the exercise, the scenery, or the chance to meet like-minded people, this hike has something for everyone!
This trail is packed with sights: enjoy picturesque views along Difficult Run Stream and breathtaking overlooks of the Potomac River from up high. We’ll even come across a picnic table at the top of one incline, the perfect spot to rest, take in the view, and soak up some good vibes!
Afterward, join us for an optional lunch at Mookie's BBQ to relax and unwind after our hike.
**Meeting Time & Location**
Meet at 9:30 AM at [Cross County Trail Access Point (Leigh Mill Rd & Kelso Rd)](https://maps.app.goo.gl/btDGQg7gphrVJdmB7). If you're running a bit late, you can catch up with us at the Difficult Run parking lot off Georgetown Pike - we’ll pass through about 30 minutes into the hike.
**Distance:** 5 miles
**Difficulty:** Easy (246 feet of elevation gain)
This hike is rated Easy for its gentle terrain, wide paths, and manageable 246 feet of elevation gain.
* **Easy Water Crossing:** Large stepping stones make the stream crossing simple and safe.
* **No Rock Scrambling or Steep Climbs:** The trail has no steep rocky sections or scrambling required.
* **Mild Inclines:** The mostly flat route includes a gentle 246 foot incline within Great Falls Park.
**Pace:** Moderate Pace
A steady, comfortable pace that’s manageable for most hikers with a reasonable fitness level. Breaks are regular but not overly frequent, allowing for a balanced experience of exercise and enjoyment.
**Parking**
Plenty of parking is available. You can park off Route 683 by [Cross County Trail Access Point (Leigh Mill Rd & Kelso Rd)](https://maps.app.goo.gl/btDGQg7gphrVJdmB7) (be sure to park head-in, with your car clear of the street). Additional parking is on the shoulder of Kelso Road. The trailhead is at the intersection of Route 683 and Kelso Road, marked with a crosswalk.
**Trail Map (AllTrails):** [Take a Hike! (DMV) - Difficult Run to Great Falls Park](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/difficult-run-from-683-23fa71c)
**Dog Attendance**
For everyone’s comfort and enjoyment, we kindly ask that you leave your dogs at home for this hike. Thank you for understanding!
**Lunch After the Hike**
Join us for an optional lunch after the hike at **Mookie's BBQ, 1141 Walker Rd, Great Falls, VA 22066**. It’s a perfect way to relax and unwind after our time outdoors!
LM: Trout Run (27 miles)
The plan is to meet at Vienna Metro (north side parking lot) at 8am. We'll arrive at Wolf Gap Campground parking lot at \~9:30am. We'll then head up to Tibbet Knob and camp at the site along halfmoon run. Sunday, we'll continue around to check out Big Schloss, then back to the cars. Splits will be \~16/11.
Here's the planned route on CalTopo: [https://caltopo.com/m/RA0A63S](https://caltopo.com/m/RA0A63S).
If you are an "applicant" (meaning that this is your first DCUL trip), please send me your gear list. I will hold some spots for applicants so please join the waitlist! This will be a good opportunity to be a member before summer trips
**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. I'm anticipating this will be around $19 for riders.
Poplar Spring Animal Sanctuary adopt-a-road trash pickup
Rockville Vegans will be picking up trash on the outside of Poplar Spring Animal Sanctuary as part of their adopt-a-highway program. Poplar will provide all the supplies - gloves, bags, and visibility vests. We will be parking just inside the gate as you enter the farm property.





















