Dog friendly hikers
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Dog friendly hikers Events Today
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Take a Hike! Initial Thursday Training Walk
Join us for a training walk on the WO&D. For this initial walk, we'll strive to maintain a 20-21 minute mile pace. The goal is to begin ramping up in order to maintain a 16 minute mile pace with minimal stopping for 90 minutes.
**Meeting Time & Location:**
Meet us at 6:30 PM near Isaac Newtown square. We'll start at mile marker 17.
**Distance:** 4-4.2 miles for this session.
**Elevation Gain:** minimal
**Difficulty:** slight elevation on paved paths.
**Estimated Duration**
This hike is expected to take approximately 1.5 hours.
**Pace:** Brisk (but not powerwalk) Pace
We'll walk a brisk pace, but as this is a training walk, we'll make sure people don't fall too far behind.
**Parking**
Park in the park and ride parking lot.
**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!
Attestation: By attending, you attest that you can maintain the mentioned past for the duration, and the walk and group leaders are not liable for any injuries or accidents.
Goats and Horses - Gabrielson Garden Park Reston/Oakton (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.
This is an 7.5-mile hike with 600 feet of elevation gain through the woodlands of Reston and Oakton. On the hike we'll pass horse paddocks and may even see a group of curious goats. This is one of my favorite sections of the Cross County Trail and probably the least traveled. Thanks to Tom Underwood for the photo.
We'll start at the Walker Nature Center and pick up the Cross County Trail (CCT) for an out and back of the northern half of CCT Section . Our turn will be at Gabrielson Garden Park,
**Park on Glade Road so the Nature Center parking lot can be kept open for the Center's pre-school activities and drop-offs.**
We hike at a pace of approximately 2.5 mph while moving. Y**ou must be experienced with hikes of this length and elevation gain.**
Dogs are welcome on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicyhttps://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolic](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy)
Leader: Steve Frith cell 703-629-0174
Park Entry Fee: $0.00
Map for hike:
https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/gabrielson-garden-goats-horse-steve-frith-4cc5400?u=i&sh=iypgzx
MORE Women's Mountain Bike Ride at Cabin John
Join us for MORE Women's MTB Ride at the Cabin John Trails in Potomac, MD. Beginner-level riders are welcome and encouraged to join in the fun! A mountain bike in good condition and helmet are required.
**Sign up at Golden Volunteer here:** [https://x.gldn.io/e/jgkrtQUn21b](https://x.gldn.io/e/jgkrtQUn21b)
***Please do not sign up on Meetup! If you do, you won't be alerted if the ride is cancelled!***
**Meet** at 6:00 PM with wheels down at 6:10 PM.
We will not ride if the trails are wet or muddy. Check your email from Golden Volunteer in case the ride is cancelled due to weather/trail conditions.
**Description** \- The event is open for women age 18\+\. You must sign a waiver on the Golden Volunteer link\, wear a helmet\, and be able to comfortably ride your mountain bike\. We expect to ride about 4\-5 miles on single track natural surface trails\. Bring your mountain bike\, helmet\, and drinking water\. This ride is **not suitable for hybrid bikes**!
As space is limited, please update your RSVP if you cannot attend.
**And support your trails and join MORE! www.more-mtb.org**
**Where** – Meet at the parking lot for the Cabin John Group Picnic Area at 7701 Tuckerman Lane, Potomac, MD.
Follow Google Maps at:
https://goo.gl/maps/aumXoQnD2qAp3iNp9
Advanced Level (A Group): Very Thirsty Thursday - Garmin/RidewithGPS
**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: Summary**
**(Must Read)**
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
* RIDE NAME: Very Thirsty Thursday ("A" group)
* START LOC: Jones Point Park (under the bridge)
* START GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/kZ3zjBHHcQF2](https://goo.gl/maps/kZ3zjBHHcQF2)
* START PARKING: Parking lot, if full park in the cul-de-sac
* ARRIVAL: 6:30pm
* SPEECH: 6:35pm
* ROLLING: 6:45pm
* LEVEL: Advanced (A group)
* PACE: Above 16mph
* DISTANCE: 14.5 miles
* TERRAIN: Trail / Street
* RIDEWITHGPS ROUTE:
CBG_THIRSTY_THURSDAY_2026
[https://ridewithgps.com/routes/40081486](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/40081486)
**NOTES:**
* To do this "A" version participation in a PREVIOUS Medium Level Thirsty Thursday ride is required.
* Same RIDEWITHGPS ROUTE (the addition of the Evil Twin is Approved).
* **Knowing the route is on you as there is no leader so having the route loaded on your bike navigation computer (Garmin, Wahoo, Etc...) or RidewithGPS app on your phone will be required.**
* Only regroup is Fort Hunt (wait for Medium riders to fully arrive).
* Ultimately the Medium Sweeper will be along if there are any issues.
* All route, road riding safety rules, and CBG Good Guy rules WILL BE followed. **This is a ONE STRIKE statement.**
* Heading to Southside 815 afterwards for the "Thirsty" part of the ride (cold beverages and hot food).
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
**The Ride : Detail**
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
For your riding pleasure NoVA CBG presents Very Thirsty Thursday.
This is the Advanced Version ("A" group) of our traditional Thirsty Thursday ride. Same route, just faster, and without a lead or sweep. To qualify for this "A" group you must have participated in the Medium Level Thirsty Thursday.
"A" group riders are expected to do the same route as the "B" group riders. You are welcome to do the Evil Twin hill as an added bonus. The only "stop" you need to make is at Fort Hunt. When at Fort Hunt you will wait for the "B" group to fully arrive.
As part of the "A" group you will be expected to know the route or have it loaded on your bicycle navigation computer or RidewithGPS phone app. At some point, the "B" group riders will be coming up behind you so if there is a problem someone from CBG can/will assist.
Most importantly: All route details, road riding safety rules, as well as CBG Good Guy rules WILL BE followed. Any evidence to the contrary will have repercussions. **This is a ONE STRIKE statement.**
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
**The Meeting Spot:**
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
Jones Point Park
Jones Point Dr.
Alexandria , VA 22314
GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/kZ3zjBHHcQF2](https://goo.gl/maps/kZ3zjBHHcQF2)
Gather under the bridge by the restrooms.
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
**The Ride After The Ride:**
***(This is the "Thirsty" part of the ride)***
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
Southside 815
815 South Washington St.
Alexandria, VA 22314
703.836.6222
[http://www.southside815.com/](http://www.southside815.com/)
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
**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.
Medium Level (B Group): Thirsty Thursday - Garmin/RidewithGPS
**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: Summary**
**(Must Read)**
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
* RIDE NAME: Thirsty Thursday ("B" group)
* START LOC: Jones Point Park (under the bridge)
* START GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/kZ3zjBHHcQF2](https://goo.gl/maps/kZ3zjBHHcQF2)
* START PARKING: Parking lot, if full park in the cul-de-sac
* ARRIVAL: 6:30pm
* SPEECH: 6:35pm
* ROLLING: 6:45pm
* LEVEL: Medium ("B" group)
* PACE: NMT 16mph
* DISTANCE: 14.5 miles
* TERRAIN: Trail / Street
* RIDEWITHGPS ROUTE:
CBG_THIRSTY_THURSDAY_2026
[https://ridewithgps.com/routes/40081486](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/40081486)
**NOTES:**
* Try out a Medium Level ("B" group) ride in an encouraging, structured environment (No Drop).
* **Bike navigation computer (Garmin, Wahoo, Etc...) or RidewithGPS app on your phone will be required as the season progresses.**
* All road riding safety rules, and CBG Good Guy rules WILL BE followed
* Heading to Southside 815 afterwards for the "Thirsty" part of the ride (cold beverages and hot food).
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
**The Ride : Detail**
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
For your riding pleasure NoVA CBG presents Thirsty Thursday.
Thirsty Thursday is about trying a solid Medium Level ("B" group) ride in an encouraging, structured environment. We welcome strong Beginner Level riders that are willing to push themselves to become better cyclists.
This is a NO DROP ride so you will not be left behind but you are expected to really try to keep pace. The lead will go no more than 16mph and other organizers/helpers will attempt to "fill the gaps" as we ride.
This is a mostly flat ride from Jones Point to Fort Hunt. Of course the "price of admission" for this ride is a hill that presents itself as soon as we enter the neighborhood across the GW Parkway... we have named it "The PUNISHER". If you successfully climb that hill, you are officially a CBG "B" group rider.
Once we get to Fort Hunt we will do laps (or you can rest) for a bit before heading back the way we came.
If you normally ride faster than 15mph you are welcome to practice your "keeping pace" skills. If you've done this ride at least once before and have the route loaded on a Bike navigation computer (Garmin, Wahoo, Etc...) or the RidewithGPS app there is also an "A" group version that you can sign up for (aka Very Thirsty Thursday) that rides independently and faster.
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
**The Meeting Spot:**
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
Jones Point Park
Jones Point Dr.
Alexandria , VA 22314
GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/kZ3zjBHHcQF2](https://goo.gl/maps/kZ3zjBHHcQF2)
Gather under the bridge by the restrooms.
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
**The Ride After The Ride:**
***(This is the "Thirsty" part of the ride)***
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
Southside 815
815 South Washington St.
Alexandria, VA 22314
703.836.6222
[http://www.southside815.com/](http://www.southside815.com/)
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
**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.
Doubles Volleyball, BB+ Level @ Bluemont
Let's get together to play some fun BB level Double games at Bluemont.
**Format**: Doubles
**COST**: FREE
**Court Type**: Outdoor grass
**Minimum Skill Requirements**: Intermediate-BB (click [here](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/mobilebasic) for details)
\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-
**Smiley Social documents:**
1. [Group Rules ](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg)
1. [Liability Waiver ](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco)
1. [Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/)
Dog friendly hikers Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
A DC meetup at Dumbarton Oaks
PawsUP for David and Brick for originally suggesting this awesome meetup and our dogs love it!
-Dumbarton Oaks/Montrose Park in Georgetown
-Meet at the entrance off of R st, on the East side (closer to the cemetery)
-Plenty of street parking in the area
-Bring water and a ball for your Aussie
This park is a very large open field, that is very dog friendly. Tons of space to run and chase. Most if not all dogs are off leash. Occasional runners and kids (there is a playground), so keep that in mind. There is also a trail inside with a stream that the dogs love to play in.
Pizza In Tacoma Park, MD (Rating: Fun)
\*\*\* New Trial Process - No More Signing In \*\*\*
**Step 1:** **Read the Liability Disclaimer:** [https://www.nvhc.com/signin.pdf](https://www.nvhc.com/signin.pdf)
**Step 2:** When prompted, **type:**
**"I Accept**/**Full Name/Contact Number/Emergency Contact Number"**
Example: "I accept/Jane Doe/703-555-5555/301-666-6666"
This is a trial process and is not available on all hikes.
**Length**: 2 miles. Elevation: Negligible. Pace: 2.0 miles per hour
**DESCRIPTION**
This event is not really a hike; it intended to bring together hikers who for whatever reason are unable to go on a regular hike but are interested in keeping in touch. In addition, the event is of course fully open to anyone in the club, regardless of their hiking abilities.
The highlight will be pizza at the famed local joint, "Red Hound Pizza" [[link](https://www.redhoundpizza.com/)] at **noon**. Prior to the meal, optionally, those who can and are willing can join a leisurely two-mile stroll around the pretty, historic town of Tacoma Park.
We will meet east of the **Tacoma** station on the red line at the junction of **Carroll** Street and **Cedar** Street, one block from the Metro, as below:
(1) Strollers: Meet group at 11:00
(2) Non-strollers: Meet the group at 12:00 (same place)
**PARKING:**
Lots nearby; streetside is an option. Parking is free on Sundays.
**DOGS:**
DOGS permitted per Club [policy](https://nvhc.com/hikeinfo/policies/).
Run and Get Dirty! Adult Dogs in the main park, puppies in the small dog park
Our regular Sunday meetup at the Shirlington Dog Park -- members start arriving around 10:15 a.m. You'll always find an Aussie to play with. There are 3 entrances, so wander the park -- the dogs will find each other!
For puppies, Shirlington has a small dog park within the larger dog park. It's the prefect place for your puppy to gain confidence and socialize with others. There is also plenty of room to run.
Just a reminder, the Dog Park is under attack by the Arlington County Board of Commissioners. While early plans to decrease the size of the park by 50% has been tabled, it's important to remind Arlington County how important this park is to dogs and owners. Here are links to the change.org petition and the Facebook page where you can get updates.
Shirlington Dog Park Page Petition: https://www.change.org/.../arlington-county-board-save...
Arlington County Board: Save the Shirlington Dog Park!
We love the Shirlington Dog Park -- it provides…
change.org
Shirlington Dog Park Page
Shirlington Dog Park Page Save the Dog Park Facebook page; https://www.facebook.com/groups/696087663906890
Lubber Run - Bon Air - Bluemont (Rating: C)
**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.)
Sunday Morning Power Hike in Rock Creek Park (Rating:B)
You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, 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.
Distance and Elevation Gain: Approximately 8 miles, 850 feet
Please join me for a brisk hike in the northern section of Rock Creek Park, starting from the visitor center. The trail is mostly dirt, with some roots and rocks, and a few steep inclines. Highlights include plenty of creek views, a few stream crossings, and a five-trunk tulip tree. We'll be looking for any edible berries!
Directions: The hike begins and ends at Rock Creek Nature Center and Planetarium, 5200 Glover Road, N.W., Washington, DC. Meet the group by the building; the center normally opens at 9:00. There is lots of parking by the visitor center.
Hiking Pace: 2.5-3.0 mph average moving pace. We will be hiking as a group; the group will determine the overall pace. You should have prior experience of hikes of a similar distance.
To Bring: Please bring plenty of water, snacks, and sturdy, comfortable footwear. And of course a positive attitude!
Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy: https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy. You must let the hike leader know if you are bringing a dog, and the dog must be kept on a leash.
Rock Creek Bark Rangers Walk at Georgetown Waterfront
Looking for your next Bark Ranger Badge? Rock Creek is having their Bark Ranger Program the last Saturday of every month from 10am-12pm. Each month it is at a different location around DC. Take a stroll through the park and keep your eyes peeled for the Bark Ranger Table! If you'd like to go with the group plan to be there at 10am. More details for this month here: https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/event-details.htm?id=5BB905BB-F7B4-CB47-87D67D3A877BCC23
Hope some of you can join us!
Here's more details about Bark Rangers from their website:
Calling all dog owners! If you enjoy adventuring in Rock Creek Park with your furry friend, consider coming to one of our B.A.R.K. Ranger events! This is a national initiative to encourage responsible recreation and a positive experience for you, your dog, and all visitors to the park.
Learn about the principles of being a B.A.R.K. Ranger and earn a B.A.R.K. Ranger badge! A ranger will be present to induct the new B.A.R.K. Rangers and distribute some fun doggie giveaways! A photo op will also be available to commemorate this great achievement!
So how does one become a B.A.R.K. Ranger? By pledging to:
**B**ag your pet’s waste
**A**lways leash your pet
**R**espect wildlife
**K**now where you can go
We hope you can bring your canine pals and join the fun!
Dog friendly hikers Events Near You
Connect with your local Dog friendly hikers community
Hike Scioto Audubon Trail with optional lunch at Nocterra
**Hike the Scioto Audubon trail. All paved and flat!**
**Plan on 3-4 miles. Hike at your own pace, no one left behind.**
**Lunch after at Nocterra for those who wish.**

















