Daytrips to the Mountains

As we move into 2026, we invite you to join us in renewing a form of political participation that has come to seem almost quaint: practicing citizenship by making strong connections and strengthening our communities. Over the past few decades, we’ve allowed our communities to shrink, our outlooks to sour and our politics to become toxic. We’re guessing you are reading this now because you want something different and better for yourselves, your families and your communities. Braver Angels provides the infrastructure and tactics and tools to convene and collaborate across the political spectrum. With our sister Alliances in the “DMV” area, the Fairfax County Alliance is creating a schedule of events for the coming year, some of which will relate to our nation’s birthday. **We’ll kick off 2026 with a simple discussion of a complex topic: What does patriotism mean to you? And what about our 250th year as a nation will you contemplate and celebrate?** Join us on January 13th at 7 PM at the [McLean Governmental Center](https://braverangels.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=eb070968609f8aecc37a46472&id=1181632331&e=500efeae3d); doors open at 6:30 PM. We will have light refreshments. We have pulled together [various resources](https://braverangels.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=eb070968609f8aecc37a46472&id=51517eb8d2&e=500efeae3d) to get your brains moving in different directions. Some of these are ‘newsy’, some informative, some lean right or left and some are just opinions. It is not a comprehensive list by any means but merely designed to start your thinking about your perspective and other’s. We look forward to hearing about your own points of reference. Comparing different eras is instructive; the meaning of patriotism changes depending on time and place. Have your views changed over time and place? How do you envision at the future of the United States? How do we embrace the whole of our history? John Woods, Braver Angels’ National Ambassador, has captured these thoughts well in [his latest message](https://braverangels.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=eb070968609f8aecc37a46472&id=3b2e9511c9&e=500efeae3d). *Scroll down John Wood’s email for a range of online events you can join.* Our future is shaped by imagining what can be and putting aside our presumptions of each other. We look forward to seeing you! \* \* \* \* \* **Braver Angels holds workshops, debates, and public presentations designed to bridge the political divide we are experiencing in our country.** Our events help conservatives, liberals, and independents get past stereotypes and have civil conversations about current issues, helping open the way to productive problem-solving, mutual respect and understanding. Meetings and events are free and require no commitments. Just bring your willingness to listen, learn, and participate with civility, without judgment. Please read more about The Braver Angels Way [here](https://braverangels.org/our-mission/).

**-->> Winter NOON start time** **++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride: Summary** **(Must Read)** **++++++++++++++++++++** * ***Definition of "Klatch" /kläCH/ noun = A gathering characterized by informal conversation*** * RIDE NAME: The Koffee Klatch Ride ("Social" Pace): 29th Parallel Coffee (Vienna) * START LOC: Bluemont Park, Manchester & Wilson, Arlington, VA * START GPS: [[https://goo.gl/maps/2sMA3jhGSgdS4fJj9](https://goo.gl/maps/2sMA3jhGSgdS4fJj9)] * START PARKING: Tennis Courts Parking lot (restroom available) * ARRIVAL: 12:00 pm * SPEECH: 12:10 pm ***—> \*\*you must be present for the speech or no ride for you!\*\**** * ROLLING: 12:15pm * LEVEL: Medium * PACE: 11-13 mph (Social Pace) * DISTANCE: 18.5 mi * TERRAIN: Trail / Street / Cyclepath * RIDEWITHGPS ROUTE: **CBG_KOFFEEK_29THP_2025** * [https://ridewithgps.com/routes/49042500](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/49042500) **Notes:** * These rides are organized "lean". * Check your brakes and pump your tires on the morning of the ride and please have a spare tube that fits your tire. * It is strongly suggested that you become a NoVA CBG RidewithGPS club member and download the route posted for each "Klatch". * Loading the route onto your Garmin (or other Nav device) is also acceptable. * **NoVA CBG has a turn by turn RideWithGPS club account that's free. [https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/events/271742916/](https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/events/271742916/)** **++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride: Detail** **+++++++++++++++++++** Welcome to The Koffee Klatch! These rides are generally based off the Arlington Loop where we will visit different area coffee shops or bakeries for a cup and/or treat if desired. You don't have to drink or even like coffee to participate. This ride is not on the Arlington loop -- it takes us out on the W&OD and I-66 Trails to 29th Parallel Coffee in Vienna and back on the W&OD. It is a 18.5 mile medium level ridden at a social pace (11-13 mph). We will get on the W&OD from the Bluemont Park Parking Lot and ride for coffee at 29th Parallel. Afterwards we will zip back downhill to the starting point via the W&OD Trail. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride After The Ride:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** This week's Coffee Shop is the Ride WITHIN The Ride! [29th Parallel Coffee](https://www.google.com/maps/place/29th+Parallel+Coffee/@38.8999349,-77.2683189,20z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b64beddb20b9bf:0x15c1db983e4ff12f!8m2!3d38.8999341!4d-77.267998!16s%2Fg%2F11rj_spz6m?entry=ttu) in Windover Square 106 Lawyers Rd NW (corner of Maple/RTE 123) Vienna, VA 22180 **+++++++++++++++++++++** **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.

Come and join Northern Virginia porcelain artists. We will provide all the paints and materials needed. Just bring your smile and creativity. We paint from 10:00 am - 2:00pm every Tuesday & Wednesday. Please RSVP in advance if you like to join oir group. Text: 703-906-9150 We are located few minutes from Tyson’s corner in McLean.

### 🎿 **Liberty Mountain Ski Weekend – January 17–18, 2026** **📅 When:** Saturday, January 17 – Sunday, January 18, 2026 (Depart early Saturday morning) **📍 Where:** **Liberty Mountain Resort** 78 Country Club Trail, Carroll Valley, PA 17320 https://www.libertymountainresort.com Lift Ticket - $125 Ski rental - $67 Taxes - $4.02 *** **❄️ Event Details:** Let’s kick off the new year with a weekend of skiing, snowboarding, and mountain fun at Liberty Mountain! Whether you’re carving up the slopes or hanging out by the fire with a drink, this trip’s a great way to get outside and connect. **What’s Planned:** * Full day of skiing/snowboarding Saturday * Group lunch on the mountain * Optional night skiing Saturday evening * Relaxed group dinner or drinks afterward * Sunday(Optional): more skiing or a chill morning before heading home *** **🎒 What to Bring:** * Ski/snowboard gear (rentals available on-site) * Lift ticket or season pass (available on-site) * Warm layers, gloves, and goggles (available on-site) * Snacks and water (available on-site) * Your best winter energy! *** **🚌 Rides & Lodging:** Carpools will be organized closer to the date. Group lodging options are being explored — RSVP early if you’re interested in sharing accommodations. *** **✅ RSVP Deadline:** Please RSVP by **January 5, 2026** so we can confirm headcount and coordinate logistics. *** **💬 Questions?** Drop a comment or message the organizer if you’d like to coordinate rides, gear rentals, or just see who else is going! Buy Passes: [https://www.epicpass.com/passes/epic-day-pass.aspx](https://www.epicpass.com/passes/epic-day-pass.aspx)

The Northern Virginia dancers invite you to join us on Thursday evenings from January 15 through February 26 to learn some of the basics of Scottish country dancing, which is the social dancing of Scotland. The cost is $50 for those who have not danced with us before. Because each week's lesson builds on the previous week's lesson, you'll learn best if you attend as many lessons as you can. You don't need a partner and you don't need to be Scottish! Wear comfortable clothes and soft-soled shoes. Please plan to arrive by 7:15 to sign in and get your shoes on. Consider coming to our Welcome Back evening on January 8 when we'll have an evening of easy social dancing. Note that if the Arlington County Public Schools are closed because of weather, our venue is also closed. We look forward to dancing with you.

Join the Ski and Sports Club of Washington DC (SCWDC) on the slopes this season. Show your interest or solicit roommates here on Meetup. **However, [TRIP REGISTRATION IS ON THE SCWDC WEBSITE](https://scwdc.wildapricot.org/Ski-Flight-Trips)**. Trips are open to paid SCWDC members ([see all club benefits on the SCWDC website](https://scwdc.wildapricot.org/membership)), or Blue Ridge Ski Council (BRSC) members. **ASK QUESTIONS directly to the TRIP LEAD on ea SCWDC TRIP page** Trip Prices Include: -**Planning and logistics handled by Trip Leaders** -All trips supported by experienced committee members and club leaders -Club founded in 1936 **-Group roundtrip air travel & ground transportation to the slopes** -Grocery stop, may be included -Ground transportation only (book your own flights), may be available **-All posted prices, Double Occupancy** -Specify preferred roommate during registration, if identified -Trip Lead assigns a same gender roommate if none specified -Private rooms available with the additional single supplement (SS) price **-Pre-Trip DMV social meet/greet, may be included** **-During trip daily social meet/greet, may be included** **-Discount lift tickets, at additional costs, from third-parties may be included**

Hike changed due to road closure! This is a secluded out and back hike in the Veach Gap area of the George Washington National Forest near Front Royal, VA. Most of the hike is a gradual ascent through Veach Gap, with a beautiful overlook at the high point. We'll meet at the Veach Gap Trailhead at 1000 AM. COORDINATES ARE 38.87611, -78.377781 The group will move at the usual pace (around 2.5 mph) and stop for a break at the top to enjoy the view. Expect the hike to take about 3.5 hours. Don't forget water and something to eat! Afterwards we’ll head to Vibrissa Brewing in Front Royal for a drink and something more to eat. They have a full menu of food. Hike link: https://myhikes.org/trails/veach-gap-and-south-fork-overlook-hike Brewery link: https://vibrissabeer.com/front-royal/ CARPOOLING: We encourage those with cars to be willing to carpool - you're the ones who make LMH great! Please consider carpooling - the parking lot is small! If you're a driver that is willing to drive, please post a comment on the event page with the following information: (1) Number of seats (2) Meeting location (3) Meeting time As a rider, please comment on the driver's post to take a seat or post in the comments that you need a ride so a driver can find you. Riders are encouraged to help their driver out with the cost of gas. We look forward to hiking with you! **Background information about the group:** Please remember that this group is an informal group of friends and volunteers initiating trips under the common adventurer model (http://www.ronwatters.com/CADefine.htm). We do expect our members to be familiar with the best practices of hiking – this is not a group for first time hikers and is NOT a group for those seeking hiking instruction. We're also not experts or professionals, nor are we trained hike leaders, nor do we scout out hikes. We plan hikes for fun. You are responsible for your own welfare and safety at all LMH events. Be sure to choose to attend hikes only within your own physical abilities and hiking knowledge; take maps, suitable clothing, provisions (at least two liters of water plus any food or medical supplies you might require) and equipment, and act responsibly and safely at all times. Acting responsibly and safely includes always making sure that you stay with a group (we advise using the buddy system) and staying on, or within sight of (if you need to answer the call of nature or avoid an obstacle on the trail), marked trails at all times. If you ever believe you may be lost, follow the advice of the US Forest Service (https://www.fs.fed.us/visit/know-before-you-go/if-you-get-lost) LMH organizers and members shall not be liable for any injuries, loss or damage to persons or property, direct or consequential, arising out of any aspect of LMH activities. By attending this event, you represent that you have read, understand, and agree to the contents of our waiver of liability in the following link (https://www.meetup.com/Late-Morning-DC-Hikers-25-45/pages/12710332/Waiver_of_Liability/)

Looking for a fun ride on Wednesday nights at a quick pace in Avalon/different parts of Patapsco? This is your ride! Are we the fastest people in the park? Nope. Are we the fast group ride? I'll still yes. Is this ride advanced pace over 17 miles in everything the park can throw at you? Yup. It's that. **Waiver:** Mountain biking is a risky sport, By signing up for this meetup you are agreeing to our MVD Mountain Bikers waiver located here: [Link to MVD Waiver](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xZnTHPXQGY5UggdumfoksN3uwdocnadK/view), as well as you will need to sign the standard MORE waiver prior to leaving on the ride, as we will be legally riding in the park at night and this is a requirement. ***Required MORE Waiver to be signed, please go to this link: [https://x.gldn.io/3IV3G966Lob](https://x.gldn.io/3IV3G966Lob)*** Where/Directions: Rockburn Elementary School, but may change so stay tuned. What time: Meet between 5:45 and 6:00 at parking lot. Wheels rolling by 6:00. We will not wait past 6:00. Pace: Pace will be advanced, approx. 8.5 to 9.5 mph. Appropriate for advanced riders, but not for beginners, or people who are not riding at least twice a week. Attitude is laid-back and friendly, but please ensure you can handle the pace and length of this ride before committing. This is a no-drop ride, i.e., we wait up for everyone at intersections. Please note Ptap rides tend to be about 1 mph slower than Rosy, or Fairland, due terrain. Terrain: Ranges from Easy to Difficult. Most trails are in great shape, but plan on some mud spots. There are a few very steep climbs, rocks and technical sections, log overs (up to 10" logs, and 3' stacks), tight single track (12" wide in spots), and a stream crossing or two. A strong/advanced rider will be able to clean most sections, others will need to get off of their bikes in spots. This is a friendly ride, so we will wait up for everyone, just be advised that the terrain can be somewhat difficult in places. This is a video edit I made of a ride this year. We won't hit all of this terrain, but gives you a feel for Patapsco: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nwi7H68iljI&t=664s](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nwi7H68iljI&t=664s) Distance: Ranges depending on time of year (around 12 miles mid winter/dark, to about 19 during mid summer / long days). Exact route will change depending on group dynamics, trail conditions, daylight, etc. I will typically have route planned in my head at the beginning of the ride, but will modify as needed to get us back at a reasonable time. Distance will grow/shrink with the daylight. Duration: I shoot to have us back around 8:30, so around 2 1/2 hours. This can change with mechanical issues, and group dynamics though. As this is a weekday ride, the stops will be just long enough for the last rider to catch their breath. Bring: Helmet (required), water (as much as you can carry), spare tube/patch kit, pump/CO2, multi-tool, I.D., emergency contact info where it can be easily located on your person, and a good attitude, as this ride is as much about camaraderie as it is about riding. Take a look at your bike and make sure it is in good working condition (Ptap will take its toll on the bike). Bring a light, as you will need it with the days starting off shorter, and the eventual start in the dark. There are ton of acceptable lights under $20 on Amazon right now. Just look for a T6 Cree LED Bike light, with minimially 1000 lumens. Weather: Shine Only (there will undoubtedly be some mud, but no ride if it’s raining or the trails are too muddy). Protect our trails and don’t ride them when they’re fragile. There may be days where I make a last minute call, so watch our MVD Mountainbikers meetup event, our Facebook group, as well as the Patapsco After Dark Facebook page, as I will cancel and cross post on all three. Ride Organizer(s): Craig P, 4four3-5zero9-zero8one1; skibum616 at yahoo dot com

*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 10.75-mile out-and-back hike along the Appalachian Trail with about 2,000 feet of elevation gain. We'll start at the Trumbo Hollow Hike Trailhead and head south on the Appalachian Trail. After about 5.3 miles we'll stop for lunch and then head back the way we came. **Start time:** 9:00 a.m. (meet at the trailhead parking area 15-30 minutes early for sign in) **Pace:** 2.0 to 2.5 miles/hour when moving **Hike map:**[https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/trumbo-hollow-via-appalachian-trail-350a379](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/trumbo-hollow-via-appalachian-trail-350a379) **Trailhead:** GPS: 38.90944, -78.05324 **CARPOOLING:** Meet at University Blvd - Gainesville Park and Ride and plan to leave at 7:45 to arrive at the trailhead in time to get signed in and start hiking at 9am. The hike leader will **not** be at the carpool location. Park & Ride GPS 38.80063, -77.58771 Neither the Club nor the hike leader is responsible for coordinating transportation to/from the trailhead. Hikers are not guaranteed to get a ride to the trailhead from the carpool location. Carpooling is organized by the participants and they participate at their own risk. **Suggested carpool fee: $5.00 per rider**. Driving time from Gainesville Park & Ride to the trailhead is about 50 minutes. **Leader:** Dick Pregent 703-587-2359 **Dogs:** Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. Please contact the hike leader in advance if you intend to bring a dog. [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy)

Hello everyone! Come join us for a hike around Sugarloaf Mountain. We will meet in the East View parking lot by the picnic benches starting at 9:20am, so that we can start the hike by 9:30am sharp. Please allow yourself extra time (10 - 15 min) for parking, as it is crowded on the weekends. Options for the hike: Option 1: Go down the white trail and take the 7 mile yellow loop trail to the white trail again, up to the west view parking lot, up to the summit via the green trail and then back to the east view parking lot via the orange trail. Option 2: White trail to blue trail to purple trail to white rock to blue trail to west view parking lot and then follow same steps as Option 1 to summit and back to east view parking lot. (We did a similar hike in Fall 2025). Please see the linked map below. The enlarged map is on the second page. [Sugarloaf Mountain Hike Map](https://sugarloafmd.com/downlaods/Sugarloaf-Mountain-Trail-Map-2020v1.pdf) Bundle up/dress warmly. It's cold out there! Please bring water to stay hydrated and snacks. Optional: After the hike, we can grab lunch in Urbana. We can decide as a group where we want to eat. I hope to see you there!

**Alpine stile, North Fork Mountain, WV - Winter Traverse** 2 days backpacking - 24 mile **IMPORTANT:** All the time we will be traveling on or next to the ridge line and we will be expose to the wind, this will make this trip an Alpine experience, be protected with the right layers of cloths is essential. **Gear required:** 1.) Backpack 2.) Tent 3.) Sleeping bag (20F or better if 0F) 4.) Sleeping pad 5.) 3-4 lt. of water, there is no water supply on North Fork (Do not use camelback, the hose will totally froze in no time) 6.) Micro-spikes 7.) Hiking shoes /boots 8.) 3 pair of extra socks 9.) 2 piece rain suit (top & bottom) 10.) Legging gaiters 11.) Hat, gloves 12.) Extra warm layers, jacket 13.) Head lamp with extra batteries 14.) Small garbage bag 15.) Cooking hardware (backpacking stove-gas cannister-pot-dish-spoon) 16.) Dehydrate food and plenty of snacks This is a one way shuttle trek, the general plan is to head over the end of the trail (point B on description bellow) leave a car there and proceed to star of trail head (point A on description bellow) **Friday night car camp:** Redman Run Trail Parking (38.912332, -79.261841) **Hike start - Point A** Trail head parking (38.710801, -79.401991) **Hike end - Point B** Trail head parking (38.981855, -79.230984) **North Fork Mountain detailed trail map** [http://www.hikingupward.com/MNF/NorthForkMountain/](http://www.hikingupward.com/MNF/NorthForkMountain/) **North Fork Mountain general area trail map** [http://www.wvhighlands.org/Pages/Maps_NFM.html](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wvhighlands.org%2FPages%2FMaps_NFM.html&h=ATMoIFAapg0J-A94Uf3uxzP2hkGk8GuLff1m46dNaA-GFcsAly-sjAvBsLoLN_f6OF3nzm3suPpBtUVh3jIx766vk4oh1g8eBOZF7Qqna5PO6aoBNLZnR84Xo7BJr9JopFXhvEEled48O64VSpRxiObLa7qC2PfjQbpPUg4SA7-1TbkqkMUzTvxyfA) **Google driving directions:** [https://goo.gl/maps/yJBVKK1Quim](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fgoo.gl%2Fmaps%2FyJBVKK1Quim&h=ATNNTfluXFEa85nhBMXaxU9qEfkLC0nWYX8nADC9hFYAufd44Fo3I_NgsZfAH7Lu0wkbw7l0O4nkRYkKwt0SJzwGHyIroHxafqxUepYEYu3js4adD_JJGL5wiFSpWtryhK9piMGG38r5cEGjgMxtch7A5a4Acz34GQWR0xP5Q-xDGiD5Ah-G7i88Vg)

Looking to meet ski enthusiasts for local day or weekend outings! I'm basing this on the "Epic, Northeast Value Pass" for 21 resorts. https://www.epicpass.com/passes/northeast-value-pass.aspx Let’s do some weekend day trips or Friday night skiing at Liberty or Whitetail. We can meet at the Clarksburg Outlets to carpool if interested! Liberty Mountain Resort, PA (1hr Drive) Whitetail Resort, PA (1hr Drive) Roundtop Mountain Resort, PA (1:30 Drive) Hidden Valley, PA (2:40 Drive) Seven Springs, PA (2:50 Drive) Laurel Mountain, PA (2:50 Drive) Jack Frost, PA (3:20 Drive) Big Boulder, PA (3:30 Drive)

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.

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!

Hello Hikers!! Welcome to our Saturday morning hike at 9:00 AM! Many - but not all - of our hikes originate at Great Falls Park, off Georgetown Pike. Unless you already have an appropriate pass, the park entrance fee is $20/car for a single visit or $35/car for a 12-month pass that is good for the Maryland side of the river too. Come twice and you'll save 5 bucks! For the record, all scheduled hikes will be held even when it rains, snows or is super hot or cold unless the weather is too extreme to be safe. Our standard hike is a relatively easy 1 hour plus loop hike at a moderate pace. Usually a hike-extension is offered for those wishing to add a few miles more, up to 7 miles or so total. In spite of our Meetup name, we also hike in nearby parks such as Riverbend, Scott's Run, Turkey Run, Seneca, and Billy Goat A or C on theMaryland side of the Potomac. We have also scheduled hikes in Shenandoah NP and at Sugarloaf in Maryland. Please note that phone connections can be iffy in the park so don't call you are running late, but texting may work. It's best for you to be on time as we set out pretty much on time. This 1+ hour of hiking (or more) is a great way to relax, turn off your cell phones, make new friends, and get some exercise. I hope to see you on the next hike!! Thanks Dick, Julie, and Katie P.S. We will meet at the lower parking lot. Once you pass the ranger's booth, make an immediate U-turn to the right and follow the road downhill to the parking lot. We meet by the big rock at the far end of the lot.