City Biking

*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.* **Description:** This is a 8½ mile hike along the CCT between Oakmont and Vale RD. Much of the hike follows Difficult Run and can be a bit muddy. There is 1 stream crossings with a total elevation gain/loss of about 300 ft. Bring water and a snack as we'll stop near Vale Rd to refuel. **Trailhead:** Park in the Oakmont Parking lot. GPS 38.8747, -77.3158 **Dogs:** Permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) **Hiking speed:** \~ 2.5 mph. **Maps:** *pdf map (approximate route)* [https://www.icloud.com/iclouddrive/018g6coEqCy7Pw0g780MQvQNQ#CCT_-_Oak_Marr_to_Vail_Rd](https://www.icloud.com/iclouddrive/018g6coEqCy7Pw0g780MQvQNQ#CCT_-_Oak_Marr_to_Vail_Rd) *GaiaGPS map* [https://www.gaiagps.com/map/?loc=13.0/-77.3245/38.8892&pubLink=wel1FFO56RLd24GpVzMO2h0L&trackId=ec62340648505b906345685c9c742b27](https://www.gaiagps.com/map/?loc=13.0/-77.3245/38.8892&pubLink=wel1FFO56RLd24GpVzMO2h0L&trackId=ec62340648505b906345685c9c742b27) **Terrain:** Some paved, mostly dirt trail, can be muddy after rain.

Meet in the parking lot of the Handy Bikes Service Center. At the start of each ride, we'll go over introductions to have a sense of participants' cycling experience. Over the course of our rides, we'll address the following: group riding dynamics; safety (ABC check & trail hazards); gear shifting; hill climbing; audible and hand communication within the group, with other trail users, and automobile drivers; what to bring on each ride; etc... Bring your questions, water & a snack. When it starts getting dark earlier, we'll need lights as well. Helmets a MUST. If you can, and especially if you've had issues with your bike, come a bit early to have it looked at ahead of the ride. PS - all levels are welcome to join, however, be mindful that if you are an experienced rider, please be prepared to ride at the pace of the newest rider in the group. Each week, depending on who's in attendance, and participants' riding ability/comfort level, we may do skills practice as a group in the parking lot or at the west end of Wheeler Ave. Once everyone is comfortable, we'll go for a ride on local trails and neighborhood streets and finish back at the shop. Happy Pedaling !! \~Maya

Hi all, So excited to get this new group started! I wanted to reach out to start planning our first meet-up. What does everyone think about meeting this Friday (1/16) from 6:30–8:30pm at the South Riding Inn (43090 Peacock Market Plaza)? Quick headcount question so we can plan seating: are you planning to come solo, or bring your spouse/partner? Feel free to reply here or comment in the event. Looking forward to meeting everyone!

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. What do the Titanic, Sleepless in Seattle, DAR, President Grant, and John Mosby all have in common? Find out on this NEW hike through historic Clifton and several parks including Webb Nature Sanctuary, Buckley Park and Clifton Creek Park. There are some nice water views and birds along Popes Head Creek. Learn how this quaint village has been able to escape developers and maintain it's small-town charm. For those who are interested after the hike, we plan to meet for lunch at one of the restaurants. Please arrive by 8:45 so we can get everyone checked in and start promptly at 9:00. HIKE: 4.5 miles mostly flat, with one steep 200 ft (optional) paved climb PACE: 2.5-3mph while moving TRAILS: Dirt, paved, some sidewalks FEE: none RESTROOMS: none (recommend stopping on the way) DOGS: Dogs are ok in accordance with the NVHC dog policy: [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) LEADER: Kris N. (618) 623-2484

Dulles Town Center Mall Hike: Meet at the entrance to the right of the Regal Movie Theater. A Test of Endurance Join us for a 6-mile trek through the treacherous terrain of Dulles Town Center mall. This hike is rated as physically easy, but don't be fooled - the mental challenges will push even the most seasoned hikers to their limits. Hazards Include: The intoxicating aroma of freshly baked Cinnabon, threatening to derail even the most disciplined of diets. Endless rows of high-end storefronts, beckoning you to indulge in some serious retail therapy. Balmy 70-degree temperatures, lulling you into a false sense of comfort. Blinding fluorescent lights, capable of disorienting even the most experienced navigator. Will You Emerge Victorious? Afterwards we'll head over to The Bungalow Lake house 46116 Lake Center Plaza, Sterling, VA 20165 for their delicious brunch cuisine.

Weekly Saturday group ride, starting at Handy Bikes Retail Showroom. Come ride with locals in the area! This group ride is for average folks who want to go for an average ride. It's not quite a coffee ride, but it's definitely not a race! Routes will vary around the area, with an average speed around 14 mph (minimum of \~10 MPH) for around 15-30 miles. We'll be on pavement so bikes with smooth tires are encouraged, **helmets are mandatory**. Open to any riders who are willing and able to ride with a group including Class 1, 2, and 3 e-bikes. No speed demons please! Good group ride etiquette is a requirement. Shop opens at 10:00 am Show up and sign in by 10:15 am Roll out 10:30 am Please RSVP in advance, so that the ride leaders can prepare for the group's size. [Handy Bikes on Strava](https://www.strava.com/clubs/737920/leaderboard) [Handy Bikes on RideWithGPS](https://ridewithgps.com/organizations/14675-handy-bikes)

Run starts promptly at 9:45 am and follows a 1.5 mile loop around the lake. Do however many loops you like! Run at your own pace. After the run, we'll meet at the Brew House for a beer or coffee and BREAKFAST pretzels! Those cannot be anything but delicious. See you there.

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.

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. Join us for winter fun, hiking and ice skating! First time skaters welcome. We will meet next to the Mercury Fountain, which is north of the Ice Rink. From the fountain, we will take the Green Trail to Lake Anne. From there we continue on the Blue Trail and some other paths until we reach Lake Fairfax. We will zigzag through Lake Fairfax Park and we will have a break at Lake Fairfax Park Campground A (excellent facilities). Then we will continue through the Lake Fairfax Park until we make a right turn that will bring us close to the Reston Golf Course. We will hike along the golf course until we hit the W&OD trail at Sallie Mae Drive. Then we will follow the W&OD trail back to Reston, to start part 2 of the fun. The hike is 6 miles with \~400 feet elevation gain. We plan to arrive at the Reston Ice Rink about 11:45am for the ice skating portion of this event, followed by lunch at Makers Union about 1pm. Cost for skating is $11 adults/$9 senior or military plus $8 skate rental. Please only sign up if you are interested in both the hike and ice skating, as space is limited. Thank you. Distance: 6 miles Elevation: 400 ft. Pace: 2.5-3 mph while moving **Coordinates of the meeting place:** 38.958924, -77.356932 **Dogs:** not allowed **Leaders:** Willem Janssen, (202) 280-4397 and Kris N. (618) 623-2484 **Rating:** C **Map for hike:** https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-december-2-2024-9c838d2?u=i&sh=g8n9nn

Let’s get outside and explore the beautiful Great Falls Park. **No Fees ** We’ll take in the stunning river views, walk the scenic trails together, and afterwards head to a nearby spot for our signature sips and bites. The Plan • What: Group Hike + Lunch • Where: Riverbend Park , McLean (about 15 miles from D.C.) • Hike: 12:00 PM • Lunch: Right after at Mookie’s BBQ Looking forward to a fun and refreshing day outdoors!

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. **10 mile circuit hike with about 650 feet of elevation gain.** ***Join us for a scenic hike on this Martin Luther King, Jr. birthday along the C&O Canal towpath and the forest trails of Blockhouse Point Conservation Park.*** **Description:** Starting from Lock 22 Pennyfield Lock parking lot off of River Road we will hike on the C&O Canal towpath. We will then hike to Violette's Lock and on to Riley's Lock where we'll cross the Seneca Creek Aqueduct and take a short side trip to the Seneca Mill & Quarry Ruins. We'll retrace our steps and take a lunch/snack break at Riley's Lock before heading back to Violette's Lock where we will make our way into Blockhouse Point Park. We will take several trails in the forest and stop at a couple of overlooks of the Potomac and Canal Towpath on our way back to the parking lot to complete the circuit. This is a B hike due to the mileage, but most of the hike is level. There is one short but somewhat steep hill going up into the forest. You might want to bring hiking poles if you normally use them on hills. The overlooks are short out and backs and descend slightly from the forest area. **These rocky overlooks offer great views of the Potomac!** The pace will be about 2.5 mph. There are porta-johns at the locks. **Bring**: Adequate water/hydration, snacks/lunch, and sturdy hiking shoes since there are some rocky areas and tree roots with a lot of leaf coverage on the ground. There is one small stream that is easily stepped across. **Fee:** There is no park fee. **Dogs are welcom**e. NVHC Dog policy: [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) Meet at the trailhead parking lot 15 minutes early to allow everyone to sign in and get ready to hike at 9:00am. **Blockhouse Point Park**: [https://montgomeryparks.org/parks-and-trails/blockhouse-point-conservation-park-trails/](https://montgomeryparks.org/parks-and-trails/blockhouse-point-conservation-park-trails/) **C&O Canal Pennyfield, Violette's, and Riley's Locks:** [https://birdersguidemddc.org/site/co-canal-pennyfield-violettes-rileys-locks/](https://birdersguidemddc.org/site/co-canal-pennyfield-violettes-rileys-locks/) **C&O Canal Pennyfield Lock:** [https://www.canaltrust.org/pyv/lock-22-parking/](https://www.canaltrust.org/pyv/lock-22-parking/) **Meeting Place Instructions:** We will meet at Pennyfield Lock, Lock 22 parking area on Pennyfield Lock Road. **GPS 39.053641, -77.288893**. See attached directions in the link. After turning onto River Road west from I-495, **Pennyfield Lock Road** is about 8.5 miles on your left. Keep your eyes open and look for the sign for the turnoff onto Pennyfield Rd intersection. Proceed to the end of Pennyfield Road. I will be in a white Nissan SUV with the rear hatch open. **Post hike rehydration TBD.** If you have questions, please message me here or call/text me at 202-528-0456. If you text me, please include your name.

We’re heading to Ned Devine’s Irish Gastro Pub, and we’d love for you to join us! This will be our group’s first time visiting, and it’s easy to see why it’s a great choice, vibrant artwork, delicious food and drinks, and a lively atmosphere that’s perfect for mingling and making new connections. Whether you’ve joined us before or this is your first Social Sips & Bites event, you’re in for a great night. **Plus, the energy picks up with DJ music after 10 PM.** Come sip, chat, laugh, and unwind with some of the best people around. Bring a friend or come solo-either way, you’ll be in great company. Let’s make it a night to remember at Ned Devine’s!

MindShift Gym has graciously offered to host our January meetup again! This event is technically free, but donations are strongly encouraged. MindShift has granted us access to their space at no cost to us, but at meaningful cost to *them*. Please consider helping them out a little, as you're able. For those of you who'd like to continue playing after this event is over, you'll have the option to stay for an additional (free) open gym session. To help MindShift get a sense of how many folks intend to come (and so that we can get your waiver taken care of ahead of time), please register for this event here: https://mindshiftgym.sites.zenplanner.com/event.cfm?eventId=260B7229-A645-43A9-BBE3-D768DEC17B16 We're looking forward to seeing you! This meetup is non-binary inclusive and open to all ability and skill levels. Whether it's your first time trying parkour or you've been training for years there will be fun challenges for everyone.

Join us as we head to the new Reservoir Regional Park in nearby Loudoun County for a winter hike around Beaverdam Reservoir. This is a great wintertime outing with a scenic 7.5-mile loop trail that follows the reservoir’s shoreline and winds through quiet, wooded sections. Even in January, this is a nice hike with bare trees creating open views across the reservoir and occasional wildlife sightings like wintering birds. The route is mostly flat to gently rolling with natural dirt and gravel surfaces. [https://www.novaparks.com/parks/reservoir-park](https://www.novaparks.com/parks/reservoir-park) Our meeting location for carpooling will be at the south side Kiss and Ride lot at the **Innovation Center** Metro station (13747 Sunrise Valley Drive, Herndon). We will depart at 10:00 and there will be a stop at Sheetz on the way to the park. Dress for the conditions and bring water, lunch, mud-worthy hiking boots and the $5 Adventuring trip fee. Additionally, carpool passengers should pay their driver $5. Depending on group interest, there may be an optional brewery stop after the hike. For those who want to meet us at the park, we will convene outside the Welcome Center at 10:45. The park address is 22211 Water Vista Drive, Ashburn. RSVPs will open on January 3 and close at 9 p.m. the night before the hike. This hike will be not be held in the event of inclement weather so please stay tuned for updates if you register. If your plans change, please update your RSVP status accordingly. 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.

Our new location is the Nova CC Loudoun. https://maps.app.goo.gl/152uMaEL4vmsk3Zp7 * Bring a friend * Bring a DARK and a WHITE shirt * Cleats recommended Check out more info about our group and recent posts at https://www.facebook.com/groups/1668243673401495 Most people do not RSVP here. On Nov 1, 2025, we had 20 players come out for ultimate frisbee fun. All skills levels welcome, we will help you to have fun. We usually have a group go have lunch after.