Country Walks

We'll meet at the Wheaton Metro Station near the intersection of Georgia Ave and Reedie Drive. We'll walk Southwest toward Saint Paul's Park and then back east on Plyer's Mill Road back to the Metro. Total walk time should be about 1 hour 30 minutes and total distance is about 4.5 miles.

You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, [https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf](https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf) and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "I accept" to be permitted on the hike. This is a 11.2 mile loop hike with about 300' of elevation gain. We will depart at 9:30 am (please be there by 9:15) from the East end of Gateway Park in Rosslyn, near the Gateway Park sign along Lynn St. (38.89798, -77.06770, 2 blocks North of the Rosslyn Metro Station). From there we will take the Custis/Mount Vernon trail down the zig-zag bridge across the George Washington Parkway to the Potomac Heritage Trail where the real fun begins. For those that are driving, the parking lot for Roosevelt Island (off the right side of the westbound G.W. Parkway (38.89730,-77.06748) is big, but crowded when the weather is nice, but there is generally turnover around 8:30. Park there, and take the zig-zag bridge up to Gateway Park to meet up with the group. Once we are all assembled, we will take the Potomac Heritage Trail westbound where we will catch 90% of our 300ft of inclines, and there are a lot of rock scrambles (and is therefore unsuitable for dogs). We will continue westbound until we reach Chain Bridge where we cross the Potomac and take a combination of the C&O Canal Towpath and the Capital Crescent Trail back eastward. These easy flat trails bring us back to the Key Bridge, which we will cross back to Rosslyn (around the 9 mile point) the metro riders may choose to bail out, but I plan to complete the hike with a 1.5 mile loop around the most politically incorrect and least visited monument in DC, with a trip around Roosevelt Island, including its boardwalk. After Roslyn, there are not proper facilities until we reach Fletcher's Boathouse (halfway down the C&O Canal). I am not sure if the facilities on Roosevelt Island are open, but they are not really close enough to the parking area for pre-hike use. I generally maintain a 2.5 mph pace on the flats, but do get waylaid by good photo ops (there will be plenty). There is a mix of sun and shade on the DC/MD side, and mostly shade on the VA side, but sunscreen may be in order, and water definitely will be needed, so bring plenty. We will stop for a lunch break at Fletcher' Cove (cold drinks and possibly ice cream can be purchased there), and we will also make a brief stop at the TR Island Manliness Monolith. Dogs are NOT permitted due to rock scrambles. Leader: Dale Johnson (540-454-5592 (off during business hours)) Meet: Gateway Park in Rosslyn, near the Gateway Park sign along Lynn St. (38.89798, -77.06770), 2 blocks North of the Rosslyn Metro Station. Rating: B – See NOTE below Please NOTE, this is a DIFFICULTY RATING, not a “Fun” rating or a “Scenery” Rating. These are not YELP Stars. The System assigns a point per mile and a point for every 400 feet of altitude gained. 0-7 pts = “D”; 7-10 pts = “C”; 10-13 pts = “B”; 13-19 pts = “A”; over 19 pts = “A+”. This hike is 11.2 miles & 300 ft for a about 12 pts. If you cannot walk 12 miles around your neighborhood with only brief breaks, don’t sign up for this “B” hike because “it got good reviews," and while mostly level the rock scrambling is legit, with some hand-over-hand climbing involving railings to assist in bouldering is required.

## Details Hello everyone! We climb at Crystal City Movement every Wednesday. Please read rest of the description carefully. We mostly do tope rope climbing but we can arrange bouldering sessions as well. If you prefer lead climbing please post on the comments to find your belay partner. FYI we have a group of 5-7 regulars that don’t rsvp anymore, so please still come even if it says no-ones attending. \#\# Requirements * If you are not a Movement member, you'll get a daily pass. If you don't have the equipments you can rent them in the gym. * Please sign the waiver through: [https://movementgyms.com/waiver/](https://movementgyms.com/waiver/) All skill levels are welcome! If you are totally new to climbing and want to do top rope, then you have to have a belay certificate. In order to do that; * You can check Movement gym Intro to Rope Climbing class : [https://movementgyms.com/crystal-city/climbing/classes/](https://movementgyms.com/crystal-city/climbing/classes/) * After the course, you should do the 'Belay Check' which can be done as soon as 24 hours after you take the class. The test takes around 15 mins so it can be done before the climbing session. Before your first visit you may want to check the related webpage: [https://movementgyms.com/first-visit/](https://movementgyms.com/first-visit/) \#\# Where to meet To find us go down the stairs in front of the front desk. We will meet around the benches next to climbing walls.

Let’s try a new trivia venue out in Dunn Loring at Casual Pint! This is a great chance for our western suburbs members to come on out! Causal Pint is a brewpub with lots of fancy beers and a selection of pub-style food. It is a 7:00 pm game, but you should try to arrive at least 15 minutes earlier to find us and get settled. There is both a parking lot and a parking garage just west of the venue (next to District Taco). Due to space constraints, this event is limited to FOUR people, so sign up now to save your spot for this interesting event!

## Details - Please read all below before you sign up **Cost:** Free **Court Type:** Outdoor Grass **Level:** B/BB/A **Transportation:** Parking will be right by the grass. **What to bring:** at least 3 bottles of water and a ball/net if you have one. **10 persons per net max** **Host's Philosophy on this event:** The purpose of this meetup is to create a fun and supportive environment where we can improve our skills, enjoy competitive games, and connect socially. While we do aim to play seriously and challenge ourselves, the focus is more on growth and enjoyment than simply winning at all costs. That’s why the title doesn’t include “competitive” or “social”—we want a healthy mix of both. This is a space where you won’t be judged for making mistakes, but we do expect a mindset geared toward learning and getting better over time. That said, this group isn’t intended for total beginners; a basic understanding of the game is expected so that everyone can contribute to meaningful and engaging matches. The host holds the right to remove you from the game if they believe that you are at a C level. **Skill Level:** 1. **If you want to know your level, please see the link below:** [Smiley Social Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/edit) **YouTube:** The games may be recorded and uploaded to our channel here: Let the host know if you have an issue with this. [Youtube](https://www.youtube.com/@mp02626) **ATTENDANCE:** **Player Selection:** Regulars > League Members > Your Vibe > Skills > \*Your Attendance Ratio > New Members \* If you have 3 events attended and 6 events you dropped off, you may or may not be invited. Anyone with a drop-off level of -.50 or lower. The host takes attendance very seriously. Please remove yourself from the event (if you can't make it) as early as possible to allow others to join. You will be marked as a ***no-show*** if you don't show up to the event, including removing yourself 60 min or less before the event start time. [Smiley Social Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg/edit) **Q&A** * Bringing your dog or cat is welcome and encouraged. * *Can I come if I don't know how to play?* No, you may not. The host does teach a beginner's volleyball class that you may attend on Saturdays. * *Can I be late or leave early?* The host expects you to be there **on time** and leave on time. If you need to come late or leave early, please let the host know ahead of time. * *Can I come even if I am not on the going list?* No, sorry * NO SMOKING (anything) **Smiley Social documents:** 1. [Group Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg) 2. [Liability Waiver](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco) 3. [Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/)

This is an easy level walk of 5 miles along the streets of Washington, DC walking through the street names of the 13 Colonies. This is the first of a multi-series hike to hike all the 13 colony streets where we will walk along Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut Avenues and learn some history of these New England colonies along the way. WHAT TO WEAR: * Comfortable, well-broken-in, sturdy walking shoes or ankle-high boots. * Protective clothing should include: * Long comfortable loose-fitting pants * A cotton blend shirt provides for better perspiration and comfort * Dress in layers for warmth and comfort *** WHAT TO BRING: * Water canteen or bottle filled with water (at least 1 quart, bring what you feel you can carry or need to drink) *** WHERE TO MEET: Meet at Union Station in front of the main entrance on the inside of the building. IMPORTANT: Your RSVP to this hike assumes the following Acknowledgement of Risks, Responsibility, and Release of Liability. Fresco Adventures, a program of Fresco Enterprises, LLC is the sponsor of arrangements for this activity and is not responsible for any damage, loss, injury, or accident due to any act by the participants. Note: There are elements of risk in any activity associated with the outdoors and the use of any related equipment. Although precautions are taken to provide proper organization and suitable equipment so that you have a safe and enjoyable experience, there can be no guarantee of absolute safety against injury and accident. Acknowledgement of Risks, Responsibility and Release: I recognize the apparent risks of this activity which I and any minor children for which I am responsible, will engage in and confirm that I am mentally and physically capable of participating in the activity. I participate willingly and voluntarily, and I assume full responsibility for any personal injury. I hereby release Fresco Enterprises, LLC, its principals, agents, or volunteers from all liability and waive any claim for damage arising from any cause whatsoever.

Friends, we can do an out and back hike for this, 2-3 miles in total. There will be plenty of parking, we will meet at the parking lot. Bring plenty of water, whatever you need for your hike, and your awesome authentic self. and of course, always bring a joke!! This is a meetup group for support and community. If you hit on me or anybody else in the group, you will be removed. People with agendas will be removed. **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 or city, 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.

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.

**Details** Get ready to hit the trails at Turkey Run - this is a shorter version of our Turkey Run hike at just 3.6 miles. This hike is a bit challenging, with a couple of **stream crossings**, and a couple of **significant elevation gains** (a total of 377 feet of elevation gain). Ideal for **intermediate hikers**. The trail includes shallow stream crossings, adding some fun technical elements along the way. We’ll take regular breaks to regroup, hydrate, and enjoy the scenery. **Hiking shoes are a must -** the trail is slippery, and the extra grip of hiking shoes is essential for safety. Also, don’t forget your **hiking poles**; they’ll be helpful at the stream crossings. After the hike, join us for a social gathering at **Chiang Mai Thai Cookhouse (6828 Old Dominion Dr., McLean)** to unwind, grab a bite, and enjoy time with fellow hikers. **Meeting Time & Location** Meet at 9:30 AM at Turkey Run’s Parking Lot C-1. **Distance:** 3.6 miles **Elevation Gain:** 377 feet **Difficulty Level:** Intermediate Hike (challenging stream crossings) This hike features moderate inclines and **challenging stream crossings** over slippery rocks. Hiking poles are recommended for added balance and stability. **Estimated Duration:** 2.5 hours This hike is expected to take approximately **2.5 hours**, which accounts for breaks, stream crossings, and group pace. **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** Park in Turkey Run’s **Lot C-1,** where there's plenty of room for all. Grab a spot, lace up, and get ready to hit the trail! **Trail Map (AllTrails):** [Take a Hike! @ Turkey Run (north)](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-july-28-2025-ee492a6?u=i&sh=ylk43q) **Bathrooms** There are no bathrooms available on this hike. Please plan accordingly. **Age Requirement:** Children under 18 are not permitted. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. **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 a casual lunch at **Chiang Mai Thai Cookhouse (6828 Old Dominion Dr., McLean)**. Free parking is available in the garage off Beverly Rd.

Kenwood, a Chevy Chase neighborhood near Bethesda, has 1,200 cherry trees lining its streets, along with bevies of glorious gardens in this upscale area. Most of the trees will probably be blooming later this month but this will be a pleasant time to tromp the neighborhood before the throngs of spectators arrive to see those trees. Sunday will be cloudy and 71 degrees. This will be a pleasant hike throughout a tranquil suburban neighborhood with lots of stunning homes and architecture. ❶ **What we’ll do:** * From the Bethesda Metro Station Plaza (GPS 38.98465, -77.09471) we'll walk south along Wisconsin Ave to Bethesda Ave, turn right, and walk a block west. At the PAUL Cafe we'll turn left onto the Capital Crescent Trail and walk southwest to Dorset Ave, where we'll turn right to enter Kenwood. After a 2-mile walk around Kenwood streets we'll retrace our steps to the Bethesda Metro Station. * This a 5-mile modified out-and-back walk that should take about 2 hours. The surface is paved and fairly level throughout. * Google map: [https://tinyurl.com/yd9muurw](https://tinyurl.com/yd9muurw) ❷ **How to get there:** * The Bethesda Metro Station is on the Red Line. See the WMATA website for connection info: [https://www.wmata.com/](https://www.wmata.com/) * Driving from the I-495 Capital Beltway Inner Loop, take exit 34 to merge onto MD-355 S/Rockville Pike toward Wisconsin Ave/Bethesda and drive 2.7 miles. * Driving from the I-495 Capital Beltway Outer Loop, take exit 34 for Maryland 355 toward Rockville/Bethesda/Wisconsin Ave. Merge onto MD-355 N/Rockville Pike, and after driving north 0.4 miles, make a U-turn at Tuckerman Lane and follow MD-355 South for almost 3 miles. * Parking: There are several public parking garages in the area. The nearest is Waverly Garage, just east of the Metro Station at 7401 Waverly St, Bethesda, MD 20814. See the Bethesda parking website for parking rates: https://www.bethesda.org/node/381 * NB: Driving and parking in Kenwood itself is prohibited. ❸ **What to bring:** Water, comfy shoes, and your furry friend if desired . Dogs must be leashed at all times. ❹ **Weather:** The forecast is cloudy and a high of 71. Updates: [https://tinyurl.com/uskmsse](https://tinyurl.com/uskmsse) ❺ **Advisory:** As a reminder, this is an adult group, and you are ultimately responsible for your own safety and well-being during events. No one under 18 years of age is allowed at this event, either as members or as guests, to include babies in carriers and/or strollers. ❻ **Administrative Stuff:** There are restrooms in commercial businesses near Bethesda Station and in Bethesda along our route. (See the Google map.) The closest one to our meetup point is Dunkin' Donuts at 7500 Old Georgetown Rd MRGR2, Bethesda, MD 20814. Hyatt Regency is also an option. ❼ **Notes:** * Garage and Lot Parking is free on Sundays and County Holidays is in Montgomery County Garages. (I'm not sure if the garages are still free on Sundays.) For all other days, see the Bethesda parking website: [https://www.bethesda.org/node/381](https://www.bethesda.org/node/381)

Join Sarah and Willow for a walk at the Arboretum! We will meet at the Visitor Center Parking at 9:00am and plan to go for an hour and half walk. We will start by heading past the visitor center to the field where all the fruit trees are. There should be some flowers blooming so we will check those out! Then we will head to the magnolias and do a big loop to end up back at the Capital Columns. Time: 9:00am - 10:30ish. Plan on getting there a little early so we can be ready to go on time. Location: Visitor Center Parking lot by R street entrance What to expect: This walk will be on leash. Don't forget to bring water for you and your dog. The walking surface will be a mix of paved road and grass/dirt. More info and directions here: https://usna.usda.gov/visit/hours-and-directions/

[The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations. If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!). **HOW IT WORKS** **Step 1: Bring a topic** Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event. **Step 2: Circle up & share** We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds. **Step 3: Walk, talk & float** We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!" **Step 4: Feel more alive** Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times. *For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)* **HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC** A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about. Recent topics include: * "What are you passionate about right now?" * "What makes a good friend?" * "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?" * "How do you want to be remembered?" * "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?" Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter. **WHAT TO EXPECT** This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.* But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here. **FAQ** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space. * Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know. * Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **LOGISTICS** * If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs. * Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details. * If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋 **IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...** [The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up. * This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).

Hi ladies. We will meet in front of the Nature Center and head to the two Observation decks. We will then hike Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook and Sugarbush trails to get approximately four miles total distance. We will walk approximately a 18 minute mile pace. Please wear appropriate hiking shoes.

Some trained COUNT volunteers work together once a month at RMH (http://www.rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer.php) as Housewarmers (usually on the 1st Sunday from 1 – 5 PM). Some schedule other shifts at their convenience. You may try this out with less fuss by following a "Fast track" or go through the normal process. Fast track • Arrange a time to shadow a COUNT volunteer. Call Dave Nohle at 614-268-9558 (cell). • Show up and try it out. • Complete application, etc. later. Normal process • Complete an online application (http://rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer/). • Attend orientation in advance. • At orientation you will complete forms agreeing to keep family/patient info private and allowing a background check and tour the facility. • Complete one training shift. Daily shifts are: morning 9 AM - 1 PM, afternoon 1 - 5 PM and evening 5 - 9 PM. • Schedule shifts online using the on the RMH scheduling system (http://www.volgistics.com/ex/portal.dll/?FROM=32895). The Ronald McDonald House (RMH) provides housing and meals for families with sick children. The Columbus RMH is the largest in the world with 137 rooms. COUNT has been volunteering there since May 2014. Housewarmers work with RMH guests to provide a home-like environment - greet, assist with family needs, answer phones, give tours, assist with checkin/checkout, prepare guest rooms after checkout, clean facility, laundry, restock supplies and staff the front desk. RMH Housewarmers volunteer at least one four-hour shift a month. All Housewarmers must complete an application and agree to a background check before they can be full fledged volunteers.

Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area. If trail conditions are poor, we will use the Multipurpose Path.

# **Band and caller TBA** Beginner lesson at 1:30, regular dancing begins at 2:00 pm NOTE THAT WE ARE TEMPORARILY DANCING IN THE AFTERNOON INSTEAD OF EVENING. Dance with us in the afternoon then you can still go out in the evening! **Sponsor: All Soles Contra and Square Dancing, First Unitarian Universalist Church, 93 W. Weisheimer Rd., Columbus OH 43214** WHAT IS CONTRA DANCING? Picture the Grand Ball scenes like you’ve seen in period films such as “Pride and Prejudice”, where the dancers are lined up in long lines, across from each other. That’s English Country Dancing, the predecessor of contra dancing. Now, add moves like “swing your partner” and “do-si-do,” like you’ve seen in square dancing. Set it to fabulous, high energy, live music with fiddles, guitars, percussion and more, alá “Riverdance.” Finally, set the whole scene down in the middle of Woodstock, with a hip, groovy atmosphere, a bit of tie-dye, and hints of counter-culture attitude. THAT’s Contra Dancing! Wear cool and comfortable clothes (you will get warm) and clean shoes that won't mark up our nice wood floor. Be sure to come for the beginner's lesson from 1:30 - 2:00, followed by dancing 2:00 - 430. All dances are taught; we will help you learn! Beginners always welcome, no need to bring a partner. Cost is $10.00 adults, $5.00 ages 12-26. Under 12 free. Free parking in church lot. Please bring your own refillable water bottle.