Day Sailing

**A Journey Through the Soul of the American Wilderness** Step aboard and let the rails carry you into the heart of America’s wild beauty. With Amtrak’s Grand National Parks journey, the landscapes tell a story — of ancient mountains, roaring geysers, and valleys carved by time. Your adventure begins in the legendary Yellowstone National Park, where the earth breathes through steaming geysers and colorful hot springs. Witness the powerful eruption of Old Faithful, stand in awe at the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and watch herds of bison and elk move across wide, golden valleys untouched by time. Next, journey westward to the granite cathedrals and misty waterfalls of Yosemite National Park. Beneath the towering heights of El Capitan and Half Dome, and among giant sequoias older than empires, you’ll walk through landscapes that have inspired generations of adventurers, poets, and dreamers. Finally, travel north aboard the famed Empire Builder to the wild, untouched splendor of Glacier National Park. Here, turquoise lakes, sweeping alpine meadows, and rugged peaks paint a portrait of nature’s raw, enduring beauty. Every trail, every mountain pass whispers of an ancient world still alive today. Throughout this unforgettable journey, the train is more than transportation — it’s a front-row seat to America’s greatest wonders. With comfortable accommodations, expert guides, and breathtaking views at every turn, this is not just a vacation — it’s a pilgrimage to the soul of the American wilderness. [Click Here for Full Details](https://www.suitcasegals.com/grand-national-parks-627-71225) \#\#\# Day 1\-Your Journey Begins in Chicago \(27 Jun\, 2026 \- 2 pm\) Head over to Union Station in Chicago to board the California Zephyr train heading West. Your journey to Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Glacier National Park has begun! (Overnight onboard Amtrak) \#\#\# Day 2\-Salt Lake City\, UT \(28 Jun\, 2026\) The train journey from Chicago encompasses both the Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains. From golden grain fields to craggy mountain peaks, the scenery is magnificent! Later in the evening, your train arrives to Salt Lake City and you'll check in to your hotel for the night. (Overnight in Salt Lake City) \#\#\# Day 3\-Yellowstone National Park \-\(Salt Lake Express 1\-Way Shuttle Transfer Salt Lake City to Jackson\, WY\) \(29 Jun\, 2025\) Beautiful Vibrant Geysers in Norris Basin Yellowstone after Sunset Awake this morning and continue on to Yellowstone. Along the way you will take in a very scenic ride so keep your camera handy! (Overnight in West Yellowstone) \#\#\# Day 4\-Yellowstone National Park \(30 Jun\, 2026\) America's first national park is yours to explore today! Your tour picks you up for a journey through Yellowstone. Along the way, your guide will provide some amazing insights into the park, its history, and of course, its abundant wildlife. Famous spots such as Old Faithful, Mammoth Hot Springs, Hayden Valley, and Yellowstone Lake are all part of the experience. There is no place on earth like Yellowstone National Park. (Overnight in West Yellowstone) \#\#\# Day 5\-Salt Lake Express 1\-Way Shuttle Transfer \- West Yellowstone to Salt Lake City \(1 Jul\, 2026\) \#\#\# Overnight Onboard Amtrak You are transported back to Salt Lake City today to board the train heading to San Francisco and Yosemite National Park. (Overnight onboard Amtrak) \#\#\# Day 6\-7 CA Salt Lake City Amtrak Station\, UT \(SLC\) to Emeryville\, CA \(EMY\) \(2 JUL\, 2025 11:40 PM\) \#\#\# Emeryville\, CA \(EMY\) to San Francisco\, CA \(SFC\) \(3 Jul\, 2026 \- Tonight, you will travel to San Francisco overnight \#\#\# Day 8\-San Francisco to Yosemite National Park \(4 JUL\, 2025\) After being picked up from your hotel, your tour will take you across the beautiful heartland of California to Yosemite National Park. The scenery here is breathtaking. From its wide-open meadows, bold mountains, and abundant forest, Yosemite is an endless parade of nature's beauty. In addition to your tour, you will have plenty of free time to wander a bit and take Yosemite at your own pace. Breathe in the clean fresh air as you take time to explore the park. After your day of exploring Yosemite, you will return in the evening to San Francisco. (Overnight in San Francisco) \#\#\# Day 9\-10 Sunday 5\-6 July 2026 \#\#\# On board train San Francisco\, CA \(SFC\) \- Seattle King Street Station\, WA \(SEA\) \#\#\# Rail Segments \(2\): San Francisco, CA (SFC) to Emeryville, CA (EMY) Emeryville, CA (EMY) to Seattle King Street Station, WA (SEA) \#\#\# Day 11: Tuesday 7 July 2026 Seattle King Street Station\, WA \(SEA\) \- East Glacier Park\, MT \(GPK\) Combine two great attractions. Visit both the Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass. Two attractions you don't want to miss. Space Needle - The tower’s 520’ saucer-shaped “top house” offers visitors Seattle’s only 360-degree indoor and outdoor panoramic views of downtown, Mount Rainier, Puget Sound, and the Cascades and Olympic mountain ranges. Experience two entirely new levels of thrills! From an all-glass floor on the lower level to floor-to-ceiling glass on the upper level, Seattle’s “must see” is now a “must do.” Chihuly Garden and Glass - Provides a look at the inspiration and influences that inform the career of artist Dale Chihuly. Take full advantage of all the Exhibition has to offer. The centerpiece of Chihuly Garden and Glass is the Glasshouse, it is the result of Chihuly’s lifelong appreciation for conservatories. \#\#\# Seattle King Street Station\, WA \(SEA\) \- East Glacier Park\, MT \(GPK\) ### \#\#\# Day 12\-Glacier National Park\, MT \(8 Jul\, 2025\) You will arrive this morning to Glacier National Park, one of the most beautiful spots in North America. After checking in to your hotel, the day is free to relax and enjoy the stunning scenery all around you. (Overnight in Glacier National Park) \#\#\# Day 13\- Glacier National Park \(9 Jul\, 2025\) Climb aboard the charming, historic vessel, Sinopah, the oldest wooden boat in our fleet. Relax and enjoy all this “secret” valley offers, take in the scenery while learning about the rich Blackfeet tribal history surrounding the Two Medicine area. Upon docking at the head of the lake you can choose to remain on the boat or disembark and begin a self-guided hike or hike with one of our guides to Twin Falls and catch a later return boat. \#\#\# Day 14\- Glacier National Park Tour \(10 Jul\, 2025\) This tour starts from the high plains and covers an incredible area that is home to over 1500 species of plants, as well as multitudes of North American free-roaming wildlife, some of which include elk, deer, moose, antelope, black bears, and grizzly bears. From there, you will enter Glacier National Park from its East entrance at the St. Mary Visitor Center, and continue up on Going-to-the-Sun-Road. Take advantage of numerous photo opportunities along the route that may include stops such as Rising Sun, Deadhorse Curve, Wild Goose Island, Sun rift Gorge, Grizzly Point, Jackson Glacier Overlook, Big Bend, the Weeping Wall, and Logan Pass. \#\#\# Day 15\-Overnight Onboard Amtrak After enjoying a final breakfast at Glacier Park Lodge, you will cross over to the train station and board the Empire Builder once more. The journey through the Rockies is a once in a lifetime passage through soaring mountain ridges and past countless examples of natural splendor. As the mountains change to foothills and then plains, you will be treated to a little bit of everything the American outdoors has to offer. (Overnight onboard Amtrak) **B** \#\#\# Day 16\-Your Journey Ends in Chicago

Explore the flora and fauna of two dredge islands in the Anacostia River, linked from the mainland by a boardwalk across Kingman Lake. The trails out and back are approximately 3 miles of easy if sometimes muddy terrain. We'll discuss history of the islands, ecological management, and DC's draft wildlife management plan. Great for birding and other critters, and possibly river otters. Bring hiking shoes, water, tick repellent, and weather appropriate attire. We will meet at the SE corner of RFK lot #6, nearest the entrance to the Park. It is possible to park at that location. Additional directions for metro, bus and bike here: https://www.kingmanisland.com/visit A voluntary $2 donation in exact change is requested to help support the Sierra Club outings program. The event will cancel if there is a steady rain.

**WAIVER REQUIRED:** 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. **HIKE:** A 6-mile urban hike will take us through the Lubber Run Park, Bon Air Rose garden, Bluemont and Glen Carlyn parks, and Arlington neighborhood streets. We will be on natural trails for less than a mile; the rest of the time we will be on paved bike trails and sidewalks. We'll have a snack/restroom break part way through. There will be a few hills and some stairs. Along the way, we'll see a beautiful stream, a large rose garden, and other gardens in bloom. **WHERE TO MEET:** We will meet \*inside\* the Lubber Run Community Center, near the vending machines/restrooms (there is a large lobby area near the information desk). There is a garage with free parking (up to 4 hours). **DISTANCE:** 6 miles **ELEVATION GAIN:** 400 feet **PACE:** Our average moving pace will be between 2.5 and 3.0 miles per hour. **DOGS:** Dogs on a leash are welcome in accordance with NVHC pet policy ([https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy)). (If you plan to have a dog, let me know; we may need to meet you outside.)

This Saturday lets run to the National Mall! We will start at Roosevelt Island at the crosswalk in the center of parking lot. (Note there is an alternative meeting spot, it is right on the Custis trail, on the North side of Gateway Park, near Langston Blvd and Lynn St; it will be clearly marked as the meeting spot if conditions are bad on a given Saturday. Ignore this unless told otherwise. Afterwards stay for coffee, we'll wander up to Rosslyn and either meet in Compass or, if the weather is nice enough, at the Plaza opposite the Metro. Note: Photos taken during the event may end up on Instagram, Meetup, Strava and similar platforms. \|LOCATION: Roosevelt Island Parking Lot. Use this map to locate the parking lot ([https://www.google.com/maps/place/38%C2%B053'48.2%22N+77%C2%B004'02.1%22W](https://www.google.com/maps/place/38%C2%B053'48.2%22N+77%C2%B004'02.1%22W)) [GPS: 38°53'51.99"N 77° 4'3.24"W]. To help new people find the group, please meet in the middle of the parking lot. Please meet 10 min. before the start time. Alternative location, ONLY when indicated, on the Custis trail, on the North side of Gateway Park, near Langston Blvd and Lynn St: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/3SNFYSkFv9rRQed37](https://maps.app.goo.gl/3SNFYSkFv9rRQed37) PACE and MILEAGE: All paces are welcome! We'll be doing an out and back route, so everyone will just turn around at the halfway time marker. We generally average from 8-12 min/miles and run for fifty minutes. But, you can run any amount of time or mileage. And if you need to walk, it's not a problem either, everyone needs to start somewhere! ROUTE: The usual route is [https://onthegomap.com/s/7r0gvj5r](https://onthegomap.com/s/7r0gvj5r). It may vary occasionally. The full circuit works out to around 8:30 min/mile for a 50 minute run. Slower paces can turn around earlier, faster paces can run farther. PARKING: Use this map ([http://bit.ly/i2dWD0](http://bit.ly/i2dWD0)) to find parking in Rosslyn. There are parking lots at Roosevelt Island and above the Continental Lounge. There are also meters and pay garages. DIRECTIONS: For those of you driving to Roosevelt Island, please note that the parking lot is only accessible from the NORTHBOUND lane of GW parkway. You will see it right after the Roosevelt Bridge. Also whenever it is warmer the parking lot fills up really quickly. You are strongly advised to use alternative travel or park in Rosslyn. They do ticket illegally parked cars at the island!! METRO: Orange or blue to Rosslyn. From N. Moore St, turn left; right onto 19th St; cross Lynn St. and turn left; take the trail on the right just before the Key Bridge.

We meet on Sundays at 8 a.m. for training runs on some of DC's best trails, including Rock Creek Park and the surrounding area. We typically meet at either Peirce Mill in Rock Creek Park, or Roosevelt Island, depending on the route. Details of the weekly schedule can be found here: https://new.vhtrc.org/runs/sip We hope you can join us for a run! All paces and levels of trail experience are welcome for these runs, which range in distance from 6 to 9 miles.

**Casual Brunch Group (CBG, get it?): A series of weekend rides with brunch as a feature.** Some rides will be beginner rides (shorter), some will be medium (longer), all will be Casual pace. Bring a bike lock. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride: Summary** **(Must Read)** **+++++++++++++++++++++** * RIDE NAME: Casual Brunch Group - The Peacock Cafe (Georgetown) * START LOC: Shirlington Library * START GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/y1K7iBorEgsTWBpaA](https://goo.gl/maps/y1K7iBorEgsTWBpaA) * START PARKING: Any Parking Garage * ARRIVAL: 9:00am * SPEECH: 9:15am * ROLLING: 9:30am * LEVEL: Medium Level (distance) * PACE: \~12+mph * DISTANCE: 16+ miles * TERRAIN: trail, local streets * RIDEWITHGPS ROUTE: CBG_BRUNCH_PEACOCK_CAFE_2024 [https://ridewithgps.com/routes/47928242](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/47928242) **NOTES:** * Bring a spare tube. * Bring water: its HOT * Bring a bike lock. * Brunch in the middle of the ride: The Peacock Cafe * 3251 Prospect St NW, Washington, DC 20007 * https://www.peacockcafe.com/brunch/ **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride: Detail** **+++++++++++++++++++++** Let's have brunch at The Peacock Cafe. Ride is fairly flat. We leave Shirlington and ride on four mile trail, then north on the Mount Vernon Trail, across the Francis Scott Key Bridge to Georgetown and a few blocks away is our destination, where we will enjoy a leisurely brunch. Then, reverse our journey back to Shirlington (about 3 hours total). **++++++++++++++++++++** **The Meeting Spot:** **++++++++++++++++++++** Shirlington Library 4200 Campbell Ave Arlington, VA 22206 GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/y1K7iBorEgsTWBpaA](https://goo.gl/maps/y1K7iBorEgsTWBpaA) We will meet near the front of the Shirlington Library, next to the construction area. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **Brunch** **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Peacock Cafe** 3251 Prospect St NW, Washington, DC 20007 Washington, DC 20007 [202-625-2740](tel:202-625-2740) MENU: https://www.peacockcafe.com/brunch/# **+++++++++++++++++++++** **Ride Level Chart** **+++++++++++++++++++++** NoVA CBG tries to accommodate all levels of cyclists by offering different types/levels of rides. We just ask that you come to the ride that suits your current riding ability the best. * Introductory Level: If you haven't ridden a bike in a number of years (or are uncertain of your abilities on a bicycle). * Beginner Level: You can ride for 10+ miles at a pace of 10+ to 12+ mph with potentially minor hills involved. * Medium Level: You can ride for 20+ miles at a pace of 13+ to 15+ mph with potentially moderate hills involved. * Advanced Level: You can ride for 20++ miles at a pace of 15+ mph with potentially major hills involved. Both Medium and Advanced Levels might require handling various challenges such as reading cue sheets, using a Garmin or navigation app, night riding, out of town travel, or any other odd cycling situations. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Fine Print:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** An RSVP of 'YES' is your digital signature and means you have read and understood MEETUP.com's: * "Terms of Service : Section 6. Release" found at https://www.meetup.com/terms/ * NOVA-CBG's "Assumption of Risk Agreement" found @ https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/pages/1942951/NOVA-CBG_Waiver/ * NoVA CBG's "COVID Policy" found @ http://bit.ly/2021_NoVACBG_COVID19_POLICY Helmets are required to participate in all NOVA-CBG rides. All riders ride at their own risk and with the understanding that cycling is an inherently dangerous activity. When coming to the meetup you do so voluntarily and are ready and able to participate in the ride as described under the conditions of the day. Be on time for the "pre-ride" preparation. If you do not attend the pre-ride preparation you will not be allowed to participate on the ride. There are NO exceptions to the above. ..........................................................................................................................

If you like to sleep in on Sunday mornings, this magnificent hike at Catoctin Mountain Park close to Camp David in Thurmont, MD is for you. Our moderate-to-strenuous 8.5-mile circuit with 1370 ft. in elevation gain includes some spectacular views and attractions. Some of the sights we’ll enjoy along the way include Cunningham Falls (highest in Maryland), Hog Rock overlook, Blue Ridge vista, Thurmont vista, the Wolf Rock formation, and the Chimney Rock overlook. Meet at the Grovesnor-Strathmore Metro station by 1:30 p.m. and please answer the Meetup questions so we can organize carpools. Bring snacks, beverages, sunscreen, bug spray, sturdy hiking boots, the $5 Adventuring fee, and $10 to reimburse your carpool driver. We'll make a stop at Sheetz on our drive up. There will be an optional dinner stop in Frederick after the hike. **NEW!** 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.

We’re continuing our new monthly series: **Sunday Dinners!** I’ve always experienced Sunday dinner as a time to connect, catch up, share a few laughs, offer support, and recharge before the week ahead—and I’d love to create that same sense of community with you. This month’s theme is a Pre–4th of July Barbecue Celebration! Join us at Pork Barrel BBQ as we kick back, enjoy great food, and celebrate the holiday spirit together. Whether you choose a platter to share or your favorite entrée, there will be plenty of opportunities to relax, mingle, and enjoy good company. To get into the festive spirit, wear something red, white, or blue. Feel free to bring a friend and introduce them to the group! Please note that each guest is responsible for purchasing their own meal. Come hungry, bring your holiday spirit, and join us for an afternoon of food, fun, and connection!

Guys, we need to do this slow. Mishki gets overheated, so we take breaks from time to time, plus there may be other folks who walk slow. To make everyone feel included in the group experience, we walk slow, we wait and are kind. **Meeting Spot**: We gather at the main parking lot close to the park entrance, under the trees. **Lake Artemesia Walk – College Park** Join us for a relaxed, easy-paced walk around beautiful Lake Artemesia. A chance to unwind, enjoy nature, and connect with others in a calm, welcoming setting. We’ll walk the scenic loop, take in the lake views, and enjoy light conversation along the way. All fitness levels are welcome. **Main parking lot: 55th Ave & Berwyn Rd,** College Park, MD 20740 Bring plenty of water, whatever you need for your hike, and your awesome authentic self. Keep it easygoing. RELEASE OF LIABILITY & ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT: By being a member of this Group, RSVPing to any Activity, or participating in any Activity, You accept and agree to the terms and conditions described below: 1. You acknowledge that hiking in nature carries the risk of potential harm to yourself, including the risk of injuries such as broken bones or muscle/tendon injuries, illness, disability, or death. 2. You agree that You will at all times be responsible for Yourself and Your own safety. 3. You release and hold harmless with respect to all injury, disability, death, or loss of property, whether caused by negligence or otherwise, this group's leadership and members for the hikes that you participate in. 4. You acknowledge and agree that this Group is merely a collection of friends or potential friends who enjoy doing activities, and that in no event does any Organizer or Other Member assume any responsibility or liability for You. 5\. You agree not to sue and to release\, discharge\, waive and hold harmless all organizers and other members from and against all liabilities\, claims\, demands\, losses\, damages\, suits and proceedings\, for negligence\, carelessness or any other cause which you may have or that hereafter may accrue arising\, resulting from or related to your membership in this group or participation in any activity\.

The water lilies and lotuses are blooming at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens! Let's explore the gardens and go for a walk on the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail! ❶ **What we'll do:** * From 9 to 10 am we'll do about 2 miles of unstructured wandering around LBJ Memorial Pond to enjoy and photograph the aquatic plants and the boardwalks to the west. If you arrive later, which is fine, just come on in and join us in the gardens! * At 10 am, we'll reconvene in front of the Visitor Center and go for a 1.9-mile walk on the Anacostia River and back along the Anacostia River Trail. The River Trail is paved and fairly level. * The total walk is about 4 miles. We should finish at around 11:30 am. * Google map: [https://tinyurl.com/kxha6n4a](https://tinyurl.com/kxha6n4a) ❷ **How to get there:** * The parking lot entrance is located at 4505 Anacostia Avenue NE, Washington D.C. (The official address is 1550 Anacostia Avenue NE, Washington, DC.) From the parking lot, a path through the woods leads to the Visitor Center. The park is accessible by Metro from the Deanwood Metro Stop on the Orange Line. * For detailed directions, see the NPS web site, [http://www.nps.gov/keaq/planyourvisit/directions.htm](http://www.nps.gov/keaq/planyourvisit/directions.htm) ❸ **What to bring:** Water, comfy shoes, and your furry friend if desired (leashes please). Insect repellent, sunscreen, and maybe an umbrella are recommended. A camera is a handy accessory. ❹ **Weather:** The forecast is partly cloudy and a high of 88F, with a 24% chance of showers at start, falling to 14% by noon. Light NW winds. Updates: [https://tinyurl.com/mrtd3muc](https://tinyurl.com/mrtd3muc) 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 and drinking fountains at the Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens Visitor Center. ❼ **Notes:** * "Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens," Official National Park Service Website, [http://www.nps.gov/keaq/index.htm](http://www.nps.gov/keaq/index.htm)

Click Here For More Videos: https://www.facebook.com/share/r/17bwkttXhV/ *********************************** Salsamante Dance Academy will be at Swerve Every Tuesday Night to share the Rhythm & Energy of Bachata & Salsa. These are Beginner Level lessons to get you comfortable and understand the two dances. Spread the Good News to all. Swerve Dance & Fitness Complex 640 Lakeview Plaza Blvd A, Worthington, OH 43085 Bachata 7pm-8pm Salsa 8pm-9pm $15 - One Lesson $20 - Both Lessons

Start your week the right way with Manic Mondays. Giving you an enjoyable Bachata lesson with a push of cool moves. The second hour has Beginner/Intermediate Salsa on 1. You must understand basic Salsa skills to participate. 730pm-830pm Bachata Cool Moves 830pm-930pm Salsa On 1 (Beginner/Intermediate) 15 for One Class 20 for Both Free Parking & Plenty of Dance Space. Viva Dance Columbus 2809 Festival Lane Dublin OH 43017

Click Here For More Videos: [https://www.facebook.com/share/r/17vTa7EuwG/](https://www.facebook.com/share/r/17vTa7EuwG/) The Biggest Salsa Night to hit your mid-week is happening at Latin City Wednesdays. Get the feel of the Latin Beat as your hips and feet groove the right way. Viva Dance Columbus (2809 Festival Lane Dublin, OH 43017) 830pm-930pm Cuban Salsa Lessons 930pm-Midnight Open Latin Dance Party 15 With Lesson 10 Just Open Dance Free Parking, No Need to Bring a dance partner, No Sandals Please and Plenty of Space to Move Around.