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Hiking Events Today
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Rock Creek Park South (Rating: C)
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.
**5.6 mile loop with a 685 ft. elevation gain that makes the hike the equivalent to a bit over 7 miles. (400ft gain = 1 mile)**
**\*\* This hike is limited to 20 participants per park no permit regulations.**\*\*
**Description:** **[Rock Creek Park](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/index.htm)**[ ](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/index.htm)is truly a **gem** in our **nation's capital**. This **1,754 acre city park** was officially authorized in **1890**, making it the **third national park**.
It offers visitors the opportunity to escape the bustle of the city and find a peaceful refuge, recreation, fresh air, majestic trees, wild animals.
Military Road divides the park into North and South.
This hike starts from the **[Rock Creek Park Nature Center](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/nature-center-and-planetarium.htm)** (closed Mon/Tues) and heads **east** and then **south** following the **creek** to the **[Valley Trail](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/maps.htm)**, the **[Rock Creek Trail](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington-dc/western-ridge-trail-rock-creek-valley-trail)** and finally to the **[Western Ridge Trail](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/maps.htm)**
through **[Pierce Mill](https://www.nps.gov/places/peirce-mill.htm)** and then back to the **[Nature Center](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/nature-center-and-planetarium.htm)**. This month we will do the hike in the reverse order.
**Pace**: pace is about **2.-2.7 mph** while moving.
**Bring:** adequate water/hydration, also snack/lunch, insect repellant and sturdy hiking shoes since there are rocky areas, tree roots.
**Dogs:** Dogs are welcome on this hike in accordance with the **[NVHC Dog Policy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy).**
**Weather:** weather in this location is **[HERE](https://weather.com/weather/today/l/4977d84136752e007d09245dc605351849a561f839bb8c7d002ae55470e11441).**
**Meetup Location:** we will meet in the parking lot of the **[Rock Creek Park Nature Center and Planetarium](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/nature-center-and-planetarium.htm)** (Closed Monday and Tuesdays) at
5200 Glover Rd NW, Washington, DC 20015 GPS Coordinates : **38°57'34.1"N 77°03'05.6"W.**
**[LINK](https://maps.app.goo.gl/TyjHWMHpevqTW1Fr8?g_st=im)**
**Please arrive by 9:45 am to get signed in in time to start the hike at 10 am.**
**Rock Creek Park**
**[Map of Hike](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington-dc/western-ridge-trail-rock-creek-valley-trail)**
**[Hiking in Rock Creek Park](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/hiking.htm)**
**[Map of Rock Creek Park](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/maps.htm)**
**Questions:** feel free to text/call me, Dawn, at 703 533 9231
Handy Bikes | Beginners' No Drop Ride
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
Friday Night Skate
Bring your lights for the “Friday Night” Skate!
**Join us for the Friday Night Skate!** See the monuments of DC all lit up at night!
We will meet at the National World War I Memorial “Pershing Park” at 7pm. We’ll warm up with a nice easy skate to the Capital and skate along the mall and museums to the National Monument. We will then head to the Lincoln Memorial through the World War II Memorial.
Those interested in just a 5.5 mile skate can backtrack to Pershing Park.
The group will then proceed from the Lincoln to Haynes Point via Ohio Drive with the option to take the 3 mile loop (12 mile total skate) or sit by the water and enjoy the crisp air (8.5 mile total skate.)
There are three options to loop back to the Pershing Park WWI Memorial and our path back will depend on the preferences / skill of the group.
The skate is mostly flat on good pavement with a small slope coming down from the Washington Monument and a 40 yard small slop from the Lincoln to Ohio Drive. If skaters are more advanced we will cross the 14th St bridge, enjoy a few up and down hills and finish with a downhill through the 12th St. tunnel.
Please feel free to jazz it up with lights, I wear a helmet bike light, a fun set of lights and lighted wheels! Wear your lights so you have fun, can see and be seen!
In case of bad weather, I will cancel the skate by 6pm on this post.
**Of course, all skating is at your own risk.**
Hike & Kayak at Fountainhead (Rating: Fun)
**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.**
**FIRST TIME PADDLERS WELCOME! Join me for a short 3-4 mile hike on the Bull Run Occoquan Trail, followed by a one hour paddle on the Occoquan River. Fountainhead Regional Park rentals are available at the following rates: $18 single kayak per hour, $23 double kayak per hour or $23 paddle board per hour, includes life jacket. There's a 25% senior discount for 55+. I verified this with the staff as it's listed on the website, although some new hires may not be aware of this. Water shoes/water sandals (no flip flops) are recommended. I also recommend a dry bag for your valuables. They do not have lockers.**
**Please note that the group size is due to a limited number of rentals and small staff. There are only two staff members on duty weekdays, one taking payment at the rental office and the other on the dock pulling off kayaks. I plan to lead another hike and kayak combo, next time at Occoquan Regional Park.**
**Feel free to bring your own kayak or stand-up paddle board. There is a small launch fee of $7, or you can use your annual NOVA Parks Launch Pass.**
**If anyone has their own kayak or paddleboard, please send me a direct message ahead of time so I have an accurate rental count.**
**For those who are interested after the hike, we'll meet for lunch at either Main St Pub or Trattoria Villagio in Clifton, or Squisito Pizza and Pasta in Lorton.**
**MEET****: 8:15 am at Fountainhead Regional Park. We'll get everyone signed in and start hiking promptly at 8:30am.**
**HIKE PACE****: 2.5-3mph**
**PADDLE****: The Marina is a short drive from the trailhead. I plan to finish our hike and be at the marina around 10:15am so we can get on the water by 10:45. It will take awhile to rent and launch 10+ boats. Please have a credit card and ID.**
**LEADER****: Kris N. (618) 623-2484**
**PARK ENTRY FEE****: $0**
**RESTROOMS****: There are portable restrooms at the trailhead, and full restrooms at the marina.**
**DOGS:** **No dogs please, unless you own your own kayak or paddleboard.**
Gambrill with Mountain Laurels (Rating: A)
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.
Come join me on this lovely 9.3 mile hike in Gambrill State Park, Frederick, MD that starts at 9:00 a.m. Last year, the mountain laurels were blooming at this time, so fingers crossed! We will get to enjoy two beautiful overlooks and climb our way up and down through 1,742 feet of elevation, including two sustained climbs in the second half of the hike.
We will hike at an average moving pace of about 2.5 miles per hour and stop at all intersections. We will also have a lunch break in a shady location on a small rock formation about six miles in.
There are restroom facilities at the trailhead. Please note, if you arrive before 8:00 a.m. the gates to the parking lot may not be open, so you may need to wait. The park fee is $3 for Maryland residents, $5 for out-of-state. There is no attendant, so please bring cash. The pay station is a small box next to the stop sign as you enter the parking lot.
Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy. If you plan to bring a dog on this hike, please contact me about the dog’s prior hiking experience with NVHC.
Carpools: Meet at Centreville Park and Ride at 7:15. Suggested carpool fee is $6.00 per rider. The hike leader will not be at the carpool location and will meet the group at the trailhead. GPS coordinates for Centreville Park and Ride: 38.836080, -77.455327.
https://goo.gl/maps/hc3LRG7Hsy2wMJs18
Trailhead: Meet at Gambrill State Park at 8:45 in the upper parking lot: Go past the first entrance with the Gambrill State Park sign and continue to the top of Gambrill Park Road to the High Knob Scenic Area and take a left. GPS coordinates: 39.4629, -77.4953.
https://goo.gl/maps/urVT88VRqi8rgRby9
Leader: Becky Reickel 301-471-3641
Park Fee: Maryland residents $3/vehicle; out-of-state residents $5/vehicle
Rating: A
Map for hike: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/afternoon-hike-at-gambrill-yellow-black-red-a1c3ae6?p=-1&sh=zg5qvz
Summit Rooftop at the Conrad
The Craft Cocktails Club kicks off its Rooftop Summer at the Summit Rooftop at the Conrad. Join us for delectable craft cocktails and a splendid city view.
https://conradwashingtondc.com/dine/rooftop/?SEO_id=GMB--R-WASCICI-2&y_source=1_MjY1ODk0NTMtNzE1LWxvY2F0aW9uLndlYnNpdGU%3D
Hiking Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Chasing Waterfalls on the Billy Goat Trail: Hike to the Great Falls Waterfall🐐
Join us for a lovely hike through the Billy Goat Trail. We will hike the easiest path of the trail which is the straight, easy walk leading up to the great falls waterfall. Walk is not intense at all, its just a bit long at about 7 miles roundtrip. You will get your 10K steps during this. Rated as pretty easy
Use this address - (10790 Macarthur Blvd, Potomac, MD 20854) which is the parking lot for the trail (Attaching pics here to give a better visual). there is another parking lot up the street a little bit. If you cannot find parking in the lot you can drive up the road and find a spot along the couple streets there like (Stable lane) and park.
We will meet infront of the bathrooms. Please be there by 10AM, account for traffic, parking and any delays that day so you arrive on time.
Bring good walking shoes, water and a snack. Please join us for this wonderful day and get to meet your fellow meetup'ers! 🥰🌷 We will grab a bite to eat at fish taco - Cabin John after the hike.
Restaurant address: 7945 Macarthur Blvd, Cabin John, MD 2081
⚠️ Indemnity Clause
By attending any event, you agree that you are participating at your own risk. The organizer, hosts nor any member are not responsible or liable for any injury, loss, or damage that may occur before, during, or after the event. Each participant is solely responsible for their own safety, belongings, and well-being
Hope to see you all there☀️💐?
Hike: Rose River Loop, Dark Hollow Falls, and Lewis Spring Falls Trails, SNP, VA
**PATC Map 10 / VA Bus**
*$36 plus park fee or pass. Long hike 12½ mi., 2900 ft. elevation gain. Moderate hike, 9 mi., 1500 ft. elevation gain.*
See two or all three of SNP’s finest falls on this classic hike. Long hikers start at the Crescent Rock Overlook and follow the Appalachian Trail to join the moderate hiker route beginning at Fishers Gap. Hikers then go left and descend on the Rose River trail, passing Rose River Falls and continuing on to the Rose River Fire Road. At this point both groups can visit Dark Hollow Falls, after which they will diverge. Moderate hikers follow the Rose River Fire Road to Fishers Gap and the parking area. Long hikers ascend the Dark Hollow Falls Trail to Skyline Drive and follow it a short distance to Lewis Falls Road. Long hikers then descend the Lewis Falls Road to the intersection with the AT, and continue on Lewis Falls Road to Lewis Falls Trail. After a steep descent, long hikers visit the Lewis Falls. Returning to Lewis Falls trail, long hikers ascend it to the AT and follow the AT back to the bus at Fishers Gap.
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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!
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: VIRGINIA 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 Vienna 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.
* **[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. Note: There is a "south" parking lot where there are also bus shelters. If by 8:15, you're not with a group of hikers who say they're Capital Hiking Club, you're likely at the south lot. There's a walkway over I-66 to the north lot.
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)**
Moonlight Hike: C&O Canal Towpath, Great Falls, MD
Hike in the moonlight along the C&O Canal towpath to Great Falls, Maryland, 4 miles
**Time**: Hike starts promptly at 8:15 p.m. and goes to approximately 10:15 p.m. (2 hours). It’s best to arrive about 10-15 minutes before the start of the hike (around 8:00 – 8:10 p.m).
**Meeting Place**: Parking lot across from Old Angler's Inn, 10801 MacArthur Blvd., Potomac, MD.
**Reservations**: Unlike CHC's Saturday bus hikes, signing up for Moonlight Hikes is not required. However, if you do sign up, you can be notified of a possible change in plan. Usually, light rain alone will not cancel the hike--for safety reasons, severe weather or a thunderstorm will.
**Directions:**
a. From the Beltway (I-495), take exit # 41, which is immediately north of the American Legion Bridge. When taking exit # 41, take it west towards Carderock / Great Falls, Maryland.
b. This puts you on the Clara Barton Parkway, heading west. Stay on the Clara Barton Parkway for 1.7 miles until you come to a flashing stoplight.
c. Make a left turn at the flashing stoplight onto MacArthur Blvd. Go for 1 mile until you see the Old Anglers Inn on your right side. Park in the parking lots across the street from the Old Anglers Inn.
What to bring:
a. A flashlight
b. A small bottle of water
c. Insect repellent
d. Comfortable walking shoes (tennis shoes are fine)
Cost / Donation: There is no charge for this hike, in accordance with CHC’s permit from the National Park Service.
**Difficulty / Terrain**: This hike is mostly over flat terrain along the C&O Canal towpath and the Berma Road. This hike is considered to be an easy hike.
**Ages**: This hike is open to all ages, so long as they can comfortably walk 4 miles. Parents need to be mindful of small children during the hike for their safety.
**Dogs**: Dogs are welcome, so long as they are kept on a leash at all times, are friendly around people and other dogs, and are not taken out on the walkway to Olmstead Island.
ADMO Glover Archbold Hike
Brisk-paced (2.5-3 mph) hike--6.4 mile loop starting from Fleet Feet (1841 Columbia Rd NW) in Adams Morgan. We will be walking to Glover Archbold Park via Normanstone Parkway. We will hike through Whitehaven and Dumbarton Parks on our way back to ADMO. Along the way, we will take in community gardens, streams, and waterfalls. There are several hills on this hike. Walking surface will be dirt and asphalt trails and sidewalks. The planned bathroom break will not be until after 4.5 miles. Please plan accordingly. Bring plenty of water and some snacks. Dress in layers, and be sure to wear sturdy, comfortable footwear. Well-behaved, leashed dogs welcome. Brunch in ADMO after the hike is an option.
Dupont Circle is the closest Metro stop (.6 miles). Bus routes C51, C53, D70, D27 and D74 are all within a couple blocks of Pitango. There is metered and free street parking in the surrounding neighborhood. But please arrive early so you have enough time to find the parking.
This is a joint hike between the ADMO Hiking Club and the Sierra Club. All hikers will be required to sign the Sierra Club waiver form to participate. Sierra Club Potomac Region Outings (SCPRO) appreciates a voluntary $2 per person donation to support our many volunteer-led activities. Also, you can become a Sierra Club member by clicking "join" on the Virginia Sierra Club website: [http://www.sierraclub.org/virginia](http://www.sierraclub.org/virginia)
🌿 20s to 40s- Crystal Rock & Black Hill Trails Hike + Optional Kayaking 🚣♀️
Join us for a refreshing late-spring hike through one of the most beautiful parks in the DMV! We’ll explore the scenic Crystal Rock and Black Hill Trails, with peaceful lake views, shaded paths, and a mix of terrains including charming boardwalk sections.
🌄 What to Expect
~5.2 miles moderate hike (2–3 hours at a comfortable pace)
Beautiful views of Little Seneca Lake
Opportunities to relax, connect, and enjoy nature together
A supportive and social group atmosphere
🧺 Lunch
After the hike we will share a picnic with other AMC hikers and paddlers
🚗 Transportation
Please comment:
If you need a ride
If you can offer a ride (much appreciated!)
We’ll coordinate carpools in the comments.
🚣♂️ Optional: Kayaking
For those interested, you can stay after the hike to enjoy kayaking on the lake. Please coordinate with your drivers in advance if you plan to stay longer.
📝 What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoes
Water (at least 1–1.5L recommended)
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Light layers
Looking forward to a beautiful day outdoors with you all 🌿
Mulberry Madness Mystery Hike #2 (Rating: C)
*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.*
(Nature/exercise hike up to 8ish miles on largely flat dirt trails.)
MULBERRIES. THOUSANDS OF what is arguably the YUMMIEST OF OUR NATIVE BERRIES! Come to the National Colonial Farm at Piscataway Park to pick some to eat yourself along our hike and possibly to entice some hungry goats with delish mulberry leaves. They are just some of the human-loving colonial-era farm animals that dwell along the Potomac River. (I expect that it should be peak mulberry season.)
There are TWO PARTS to this MYSTERY HIKE. The main mystery is how far we will go, depending on hikers' desires and what we'll find along the way, and we'll visit some trails that haven't been recently scouted. FIRST: a foray with multiple stops around the farm and along the Potomac River to taste some native red and non-native white mulberries, eyeball birds and critters chowing down on the sugar-sweet berries, to meet colonial-era farm animals (such as sassy Hog Island sheep, awesome Ossabaw hogs, and perky turkeys), and to ogle the views of Mt. Vernon, across the river. (This protected National Park Service property exists to protect the views from Mt. Vernon!)
We'll hike at a 2.5 to 3-mile an hour pace while moving, but we'll DAWDLE A LOT to enjoy the other birds (such as sunflower-yellow prothonotary warblers and blindingly blue indigo buntings), skinks, lichens, and anything else that we stumble upon.
PART TWO is optional. We'll hike as close as we can get to Mockley Point, a farther-flung part of the park at a pace of around 3 mph with fewer stops. Near the river we'll dally a bit more to enjoy the views before returning to the start.
\**\*MUST-READ/IMPORTANT NOTES:* The end time is just for planning purposes. We'll likely end earlier, especially if you only attend the first part of the hike. Adults only. No pets, not even pet prothonotary warblers. Heavy rain cancels. Some of our route has NOT been scouted recently. The water in the restrooms may not be potable so bring plenty of your own water to drink and enough to wash off your mulberries. We can only pick roughly a pint of berries each so if you bring a container, keep it small!
**WEATHER POLICY:** Heavy rain cancels. Forecast will be posted here by 5 p.m. on Saturday.
**MEET 10 am, VISITORS CENTER, NATIONAL COLONIAL FARM / PISCATAWAY PARK:**
**Note: on our 5/24 hike** **some** **Android phones** **steered** **hikers to the farm parking and not the visitor parking. Read the directions below carefully. Turn right into the** **VISITOR PARKING after entering the park. Do NOT continue** **straight and left** **to the** **STAFF** **parking**. **Click on the Google map I created below or copy of the GPS coordinates into Google or Apple Maps.**
[https://www.nps.gov/pisc/planyourvisit/ncf.htm](https://www.nps.gov/pisc/planyourvisit/ncf.htm)
MEET 10 am VISITORS CENTER. USE GPS: 38.694549, -77.064994, Turn right for dirt VISITOR parking lot. Don't park in staff lot. Walk toward river to visitor center. Pin is in parking lot so maps don't misguide you elsewhere. See map in photos! https://maps.app.goo.gl/pWRTRvjUBAo8aFPZA
**BRING:** Mandatory water, sense of awe, and sense of humor, snack/lunch. Optional: hat, sunblock, bug spray, container and ice chest for your berries, fully-charged cell phone, and camera. (Long lenses also welcome.) On the Mockley Point leg, we may hike on one or two trails that haven't been mowed enough so long pants are recommended. (The leader will wear shorts though.) Binoculars or camera are also recommended.
**RESTROOMS:** At start and by farm office.
Hiking Events Near You
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Trails & Ales! Chestnut Ridge Metro Park / BrewDog DogTap
**History**
[Chestnut Ridge Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/chestnut-ridge/) is historically significant because it sits on a 300-million-year-old outcropping of Blackhand sandstone. Geographically recognized as the very first foothill of the Appalachian Mountains, the ridge rises 1,116 feet above sea level. Long before European settlement, the land served as a sacred site for ancient civilizations. The park contains the Old Maid's Orchard Mound, an eight-foot-tall burial mound constructed by the Adena culture between 1000 B.C. and 100 B.C. This ancient landmark has remained largely intact and is now protected on the National Register of Historic Places.
The documented modern history of the land began with an official survey conducted by Ebenezer Buckingham in 1801. Original land deeds of sale from this period notably bear the signatures of United States Presidents Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. In the 1830s, Irish laborers arrived at the ridge to quarry its rich Blackhand sandstone. The blocks they hewed were used to build the crucial locks for the nearby Ohio and Erie Canal. Remnants of this early sandstone quarrying operation can still be spotted by sharp-eyed hikers along the modern trails.
Agricultural transformation defined the ridge throughout the mid-to-late 19th century. Settlers discovered that the high elevation created a natural air flow that prevented late-season frost damage to crops. Extensive fruit orchards were planted across the slopes between 1860 and 1880. One notable orchard was established by John Wagner, a Spanish-American War veteran who chose the ridge specifically for its proximity to the bustling Columbus market. The park's current name pays homage to the massive American chestnut trees that once dominated the ridgeline before a devastating ecological blight wiped them out in the early 20th century.
The conservation story of the modern 486-acre park began in March 1962. The Metro Parks board announced land acquisition plans to block developers from building a residential housing development called Chestnut Heights. Director-Secretary Walter A. Tucker advocated heavily for the purchase, citing the ridge's immense value as a scenic overlook for central Ohio. The district systematically purchased multiple agricultural parcels over the next two decades. After operating strictly as undeveloped farmland through the 1970s, Chestnut Ridge Metro Park officially opened to the public on December 18, 1988.
In recent decades, the park has evolved from a quiet hiking spot into a premier regional destination for outdoor sports. A major turning point occurred in 2010 when the Central Ohio Mountain Biking Organization (COMBO) partnered with the park district to develop new infrastructure. Volunteers worked extensively to construct a single-track mountain bike trail, which officially opened in October 2011. An expert gravity and flow trail featuring advanced jumps was later integrated into the loop in 2016. Today, the park successfully balances its deep ancient, industrial, and agricultural history with active recreation.
**Map of the Park**
Here is a [map of Chestnut Ridge](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/CHR_map_1980px_2026.jpg).
**Summary**
For this event, we will hike the Ridge, Meadows, and Homesite Trails, and Law's Lane, which is unmarked on some maps. None of these trails is individually very long, so we will hike a few permutations and loops until we get in 4-5 miles. The hike will be moderately strenuous.
**Where We'll Meet**
Drive to the rearmost picnic area at the back of the park. There's a latrine here, but there's no water fountain here or anywhere else at Chestnut Ridge. I strongly recommend you bring some water of your own, at least for after the hike.
Cell service at the park is spotty, although your GPS will get you there just fine. The map pin I've provided here is exactly where we'll be meeting and should be able to be used directly in Google Maps, although Chestnut Ridge isn't big and you're unlikely to get lost here.
**After the Hike**
Afterward, we'll head over to [BrewDog DogTap](https://drink.brewdog.com/usa/brewdog-dogtap-columbus) for [drinks](https://usa.brewdog.com/pages/brewdog-lineup) and [food](https://usa.brewdog.com/cdn/shop/files/DogTap_Menu_2025_65e1ff8b-97d4-4f26-80f1-68321d482025.pdf?v=17356939232910340498). They also have an outdoor area that's extremely popular.
I've had their burgers and their pizza, and I think they're both very good. I also really like their [Cold Beer](https://usa.brewdog.com/products/cold-beer-2024) (that's its actual name), which is their American light lager.
BrewDog's actual address is [96 Gender Rd, Canal Winchester, OH 43110](https://www.google.com/maps/place/96+Gender+Rd,+Canal+Winchester,+OH+43110/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88387c06afa21a85:0x804c611d373d8c54?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and they have a large, free parking lot. We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.
Hike Char-Mar Ridge Park
This is a small but pretty park with a 1.7-mile loop. We will walk it 2 times. It goes along a ridge and has moderate elevation changes.
Sharon Woods HIKE
Hi ladies. Let's hike the edward thomas trail, lake trail , spring creek and a short walk on the multi purpose trail. This is one large loop . Wear your shoe of choice.
Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area. 4.2 miles in length .
Sharon Woods HIKE
Hi ladies. Let's hike the Edward Thomas, Spring Creek, and a little multi-purpose trail - approximately 4 miles so please wear your shoe of choice.
Please bring a water bottle as needed and appropriate shoes. Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area.



























