Dog Recreation

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.

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. **Hike Overview:** This will be a 10-mile hike in and around Great Falls, Maryland, with about 800 feet of elevation gain. We will be hiking in the woods, not along the towpath. The trail can be rocky and uneven at times. Plan for some small hills and stream crossings. I hike at a moderate to fast pace of 2.5-3.0 miles per hour. **Park Entrance Fee**: None. **Trailhead:** The trailhead / hike starting location is at the far end of the upper parking lot across from the Old Angler's Inn. The restrooms at the other end (by the entrance) should be open. **Duration**: Approximately 5 hours **Route**: We’ll hike up to the Gold Mine Loop, circle around the east side, make our way down to the towpath, and then visit Olmsted Island for a lovely view of the falls. Once back at the towpath, we'll head past the visitor center and parking lot north to the Ford Mine Loop. After finishing this loop, we'll retrace our steps to the visitor center, hike along the Overlook Trail and around the Gold Mine Loop and back to the parking lot. Highlights include: the falls overlook, Civil War trenches, gold mine sites, and a pretty stream. **Type**: Our path will be roughly in the shape of a barbell. **Hiking Speed**: We'll hike at a speed of 2.5-3.0 mph (moderate to fast). **Pets:** Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with NVHC's dog policy: [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy). The dog must be on a leash, and you must let the hike leader know in advance. Dogs are not allowed on the boardwalk to Olmsted Island, so any hikers with a dog would have to wait at the entrance while the group goes to view the falls. **Map of Hiking Trails at Great Falls, Maryland:** [https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/upload/Great-Falls-Hiking-Map.pdf](https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/upload/Great-Falls-Hiking-Map.pdf)

This event is NOT for beginners please. If you can't make it, please try to sign out at least 5 hours before the event starts. Thank you!

**+++++++++++++++++++++** **IMPORTANT:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** 1. It's like the "BOO"cycle ride, but for the Holiday Season. Not sure where we are going just yet, but it will be around Del Ray once I know who has the nicest lights. 2. Your ONE Thermos should have your hydration. 3. Your OTHER Thermos should have a hot drink of your choice. 4. We will be stopping at the Dairy Godmother for a FREE DONUT (or whatever treat you would like) courtesy of CBG. They will also let us use their restrooms. 5. Fun, Festive, Battery Powered Lights on your bicycles are strongly suggested. The more lights the better to be seen with at night **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride: Summary** **(Must Read)** **+++++++++++++++++++++** * RIDE NAME: "Jingle Bell"cycle Ride (oh what fun it is to ride...) * START LOC: Alexandria City Hall, meet in parking Garage. * START GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/N6tkF5YcCQp](https://goo.gl/maps/N6tkF5YcCQp) * PARKING INFO: Parking under City Hall $5 * ARRIVAL: 5:00pm * SPEECH: 5:15pm * ROLLING: 5:30pm * SUNSET: 4:49pm * LEVEL: Medium Level * DISTANCE: \~13 miles * PACE: 12-13+ (casual parade pace) * TERRAIN: Alexandria bike trials / lanes / sharrow streets. * **RIDEWITHGPS ROUTE:** CBG_XMAS_JINGLE_BELL_2025 [https://ridewithgps.com/routes/53547944](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/53547944) (same as last year) **NOTE:** * Dress in layers for the weather (Ugly Sweaters Encouraged) * 100 Lumen (or Greater) Front Light (Read all about them here: [https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/events/273787949](https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/events/273787949)) * Red Tail Light * Verify they all have a fresh charge * Fun, Festive, Battery Powered Lights on your bicycles are strongly suggested. The more lights the better to be seen with at night. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride : Detail** **+++++++++++++++++++++** For your pleasure NoVA CBG presents our "Jingle Bell"cycle Ride. This ride is on a Saturday night as to try to not overlap with other holiday festivities that might be going on. It's like the "BOO"cycle ride, but for the Holiday Season. Not sure where we are going just yet, but it will be around Del Ray. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Meeting Spot:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** Alexandria City Hall 301 King St. Alexandria, VA 22314 GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/N6tkF5YcCQp](https://goo.gl/maps/N6tkF5YcCQp) We will meet in the Parking Garage @ Alexandria City Hall. Please note that there is usually ample parking in the garage located directly below City Hall for $5.00 all evening. However, give yourself plenty of extra time to find other parking if the garage below city hall is full. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride After The Ride:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** NONE YET **+++++++++++++++++++++** **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 have some fun with your little one(s) at the Woodside Urban Park. Make a swing buddy. Explore one of downtown Silver Spring's park. Woodside Urban Park is located a the intersection of Georgia Avenue and Spring Street, across from Bank of America. The park has plenty of trees for shade. Two different play ages for younger and older kids to have fun. Hope to see you there.

\*\*This walk occurs in the DARK, consider bringing an additional light source\*\* Embrace the Holiday Spirit on **this festive & photogenic frolic that is a 6+ mile easy ONE-WAY/ THRU walk (from MLK Library to Union Station) that is relatively flat, albeit some sets of stairs as well as an ascent on Capitol hill.** Pace: 3mph. The trek traverses the heart of Washington, D.C. showcasing tantalizing Christmas Trees that provide a merry foreground to some of the cities iconic institutions! The walk departs from [MLK Jr. memorial Library](https://www.dclibrary.org/plan-visit/martin-luther-king-jr-memorial-library), which currently features a Pop-up Shop of Metro apparel with the Holiday motif. Ambling through the Winter- themed Palmer Alley afterwards leads to the 75ft *CITY CENTER TREE*, followed by a frolic in ["Frosted Franklin"](https://www.downtowndc.org/events/frosted-at-franklin-park-2024-illumination/) park. From there, the circuit skirts by the White House via Layfette park then the [Renwick Gallery](https://americanart.si.edu/visit/renwick), en route to the *ELLIPSE TREE* which is surrounded by tiny timbers from each State/ Territory! After a short saunter in [Pershing park](https://www.nps.gov/articles/pershing-park.htm) the trek continues with a spur to the *WILLARD HOTEL TREE* before wandering through Woodrow Wilson Plaza. A second spur later reveals the *RIGGS HOTEL TREE*. A pitstop at the [D.C. Holiday Market](https://www.downtowndc.org/holiday-market/) follows; **anticipate a \~10min recess for vendor browsing/ shopping**. Once resuming the walk then snakes through Judiciary Square, D.C.'s judicial/ court corridor that leads to the colorful *CANADIAN EMBASSY TREE*, an annual gift 'presented' for over 25years! Latter of the circuit gives a grand gander atop the [President Grant memorial](https://www.aoc.gov/explore-capitol-campus/features/ulysses-s-grant-memorial) then observes the colossal *CAPITOL HILL TREE*, before arduously ascending around it. After traversing by the Library of Congress and then the Supreme Court, the walk strolls through Senate park which hides a fabulous fountain that may illuminate at night, concluding through a flank of Flags into Columbus circle. The trek terminates inside the "Great Hall" at the *(Norwegian) [UNION STATION](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Washington_Union_Station) TREE*. Explore the Station for more and/or consume a post- social meal at the [mostly Fast-] Food Court with fellow attendees! Walk Highlights include the epic [Eisenhower Executive offices](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eisenhower_Executive_Office_Building), a Clock Tower at the Waldorf- Astoria hotel, & the sublime [Spirit of Haida Gwaii sculpture](https://www.aci-iac.ca/art-books/iljuwas-bill-reid/key-works/spirit-of-haida-gwaii/)... Many more monuments, memorials, & beautiful buildings along the way! NOTES: 1\. Trail Forecast= [MAP](https://npmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/white-house-map.gif) \| Festive/ Holiday clothing encouraged\! Please adhere to Host directions & pedestrian signage\. 2\. Commuting via Metro advised\, alight from Metro Center or Galley Pl\- Chinatown stations then proceed to MLK Library\. Exiting early is possible as the walk meanders by many Metro stations\. **3\. Can't attend on Saturday? Seek [Friday edition](https://www.meetup.com/dmv-outdoor-walks-and-hikes/events/311779250/?eventOrigin=group_events_list) here.** 4\. This Meetup was self\-\- composed\, crafted\, & curated\, but does use some 'holiday magic' from [this (2023) Meetup organized by Sandra H.](https://www.meetup.com/silver-spring-outdoors/events/297875872/?eventOrigin=group_events_list) of the SSO Meetup that I was unavailable to attend.

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

Just good ole Ultimate Frisbee. Tons of fun. Great group. No stacks. No pick calls (but no picks!!!). Fair warning to those totally new to ultimate: it's a lot of running. \*\*Please pay close attention to the rule #6 listed below. *What to DEFINITELY bring* 1. Running shoes/Cleats 2. One white shirt *and* one dark shirt !!!! See this one !!!! \-\-\- IMPORTANT you can play both dark and white so we can make teams when we get there; just pickup after all 😎 3. Water *What you can ALSO bring* 4\. Snacks & Drinks 5\. Gloves \(winter\) 6\. Sunscreen \(summer\) 7\. Sunglasses 😎 House Rules - 1. Starting Play: Each point begins with both teams lining up on the front of opposite end zone lines. The defense throws ("pulls") the disc to the offense. 2. Scoring: Each time the offense catches a pass in the defense's end zone, the offense scores a point. The teams switch direction after every goal, and the next point begins with a new pull by the team that just scored. 3. Movement of the Disc: The disc may be advanced in any direction by completing a pass to a teammate. Players may not run with the disc. The person with the disc ("thrower") has ten seconds to throw the disc. The defender guarding the thrower ("marker") counts out the stall count. 4. Change of Possession: When a pass is not completed (e.g. out of bounds, drop, block, interception, stalled), the defense immediately takes possession of the disc and becomes the offense. 5. Substitutions: Players not in the game may replace players in the game after a score and during an injury timeout. (Modified depending on the number of the attendees) 6. Non-contact: Players must attempt to avoid physical contact during play. Picks and screens are also prohibited. 7. Fouls: When a player initiates contact that affects the play, a foul occurs. When a foul causes a player to lose possession, the play resumes as if the possession was retained. If the player that the foul was called against disagrees with the foul call, the play is redone. 8. Self-Officiating: Players are responsible for their own foul and line calls. The host will also step in if it is needed. Please message the event host for any questions or concerns. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Smiley Social documents:** 1. [Group Rules ](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg) 2. [Liability Waiver ](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco)

Join us for a **fun and social hike** at Rock Creek Park as we explore the "Southern Loop," starting from the Nature Center. Starting at the **Nature Center**, the "Southern Loop via Western Ridge Trail, Rock Creek, and Valley Trail" is a well-loved route. With over 2,700 glowing reviews on AllTrails, it offers beautiful scenery, well-maintained paths, and a refreshing escape close to the city. This **easy hike** winds through lush forested trails, showcasing the beauty of Rock Creek Park. While the trail is mostly straightforward, please note that sections **slippery**, so wear sturdy, grippy shoes. To learn more about the trail, click the link in the **Trail Map section below**. Get ready for fresh air, great conversations, and plenty of scenic moments! This hike is perfect for all levels, so bring your good vibes and let’s hit the trail together! **Meeting Time & Location:** Meet us at 9:30 AM at the **Rock Creek Park Nature Center,** located at 5200 Glover Rd NW, Washington, DC 20015. There’s plenty of parking available at the Nature Center. We’ll gather right in front of the building to start the hike. **Distance:** 5.6 miles **Elevation Gain:** 685 feet **Difficulty:** Moderate Walk/Hike This hike is a moderate walk with natural trails and a few gentle inclines to get your heart rate up. The terrain includes some uneven sections, and the fallen leaves can make it a bit slippery in spots. With sturdy footwear, it’s an enjoyable and accessible hike for most levels. **Estimated Duration** This hike is expected to take approximately 2.5 hours. **Pace:** Moderate Pace We'll walk a steady, comfortable pace that’s manageable for most hikers with a reasonable fitness level. Breaks are regular but not overly frequent, allowing for a balanced experience of exercise and enjoyment. **Parking** Ample parking is available at the Rock Creek Park Nature Center, with additional overflow parking located across the street. **Trail Map (AllTrails)** [Rock Creek Park - Southern Loop](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/rock-creek-park-nature-center-a2f0474?u=i&sh=ylk43q) With over 2,700 reviews on AllTrails, this popular route offers insights into the trail’s conditions and highlights. Click the link above to learn more and prepare for your hike! **Restrooms** Restrooms are available at the Nature Center, our meeting point at the start of the hike. They open at 9:00 AM. Additionally, there are restrooms approximately 1 hour into the hike, where we’ll take a brief break. **Dog Attendance** For everyone’s comfort and enjoyment, we kindly ask that you leave your dogs at home for this hike. Thank you for understanding! **Lunch After the Hike** After the hike, join us for an optional lunch at **Pete’s New Haven Style Apizza** (4940 Wisconsin Ave. NW), an affordable, counter-service spot just a 10 minute drive away. They serve New England-style pizza, pastas, salads, antipasti, and local brews—something for everyone!

It's the holidays at Mount Vernon - let's say hi to Aladdin and all the animals! Plus the grounds will be decorated for the holidays. AND there is an end of year deal. The ticket for Sunday is $28. We will also have our annual New Years Eve visit to Mount Vernon. Meet in the grassy area once you exit the building for the grounds. We will wait until 9:15 a.m. If you miss us, heads towards Aladdin! There is plenty of room to spread out and explore the grounds - this is a great meetup for reactive dogs, shy dogs, puppies, and best all-round social Aussies! Everyone goes at their own pace! ## Get Unlimited Visits for the Price of One Ticket Receive unlimited admission for daytime visits when you buy a 2025 admission ticket at full price. There are no blackout dates. ### How to Redeem 1. Purchase a ticket for your initial visit at full price and provide us with your contact information. 2. On your second visit, show proof of purchase from your first visit (i.e. a ticket or order number). 3. Receive an admission pass that is valid for the rest of 2025. Present your pass at the Ford Orientation Center for entry. #### Mansion tours As a 2025 pass holder, you can enter the Mansion tour line at any time; you do not need a timed ticket. ## Eligibility & Restrictions This offer is valid in 2025 only. ### Eligible Tickets #### Full Price Tickets purchased from Mount Vernon You must purchase the ticket for your initial visit at full price. Tickets purchased online at least 3 days in advance save $2 on admission. These tickets are also eligible for unlimited return admission. *Tickets purchased from third-party sellers are not eligible for this offer.* #### Contact Information Required You must provide your name, phone number, and email address at the time of your ticket purchase.

This is a coed social soccer game for all skill levels To have the best game possible, please: * this group has It’s own rules which all attendees must respect. * Be on time. * Bring 2 shirts ( 1 white and 1 colorful or dark. NO Gray shirt). * Respect everyone and let’s enjoy the game * No slide tackling, no rough play: Dangerous play won't be tolerated even if it's not a foul. The host will give you notice if you play dangerously with slide tackles, stomping on other players' legs or going toward the players in a careless way. You need to be very considerate while playing and if the host thinks you won't get better in playing safe he/she may ask you to not come to soccer event. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Smiley Social documents:** 1. [Group Rules ](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg) 2. [Liability Waiver ](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco)

Let's enjoy the current warmer weather with a hike this Sunday in DC's Rock Creek park! This one’s for all the car-free DC folks, those who want an short morning drive with easy parking, and anyone who wants to explore one of region's great urban parks. This is a moderately challenging hike due to its length (rather than elevation). We’ll move at a steady 2-3 mph pace with breaks as needed. Water and bathrooms are available at the start, and may also be available a few miles into the hike, but please carry a minimum of 1L with you. Start location: we’ll meet at Picnic Grove 24 across from Rock Creek Tennis Center [https://maps.app.goo.gl/wUMV6UqH7GKsDBbA8?g_st=ic](https://maps.app.goo.gl/wUMV6UqH7GKsDBbA8?g_st=ic) Route: [https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-ba011fd](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-ba011fd) Parking: Free and plentiful Transit: Several buses go past this location on 16th Street. You can pick them up from Silver Spring metro (red line) or various metro stations in downtown DC. Bikeshare: the nearest dock is at Colorado Ave & Longfellow St NW per Google. Meet time: We'll meet at 9:30 am at the location noted above and, after intros, start hiking the trail shortly afterwards. There is no official after hike meal planned. For those that which to gather informally, the hike leader recommends Moreland's Tavern, which is an easy walk from our meeting point: [https://morelandstavern.com/](https://morelandstavern.com/lunch/) CARPOOLING: Although this is one of our rare public transportation-accessible hikes, we encourage those with cars driving in from outside DC to be willing to carpool - you're the ones who make LMH great! 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 INFO ABOUT LMH: 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](http://www.ronwatters.com/CADefine.html)). 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 are also not 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 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. Act responsibly and safely: 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](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://docs.google.com/document/d/1pQ0dedcqlyjc_Aib3TEbTX4gQRQt4C7FeCmsAPyTxd4/edit?tab=t.0](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pQ0dedcqlyjc_Aib3TEbTX4gQRQt4C7FeCmsAPyTxd4/edit?tab=t.0))

Join us this December for a (possibly!) snowy walk in Sharon Woods Metropark. This hike is dog friendly!🐕 Hot cocoa and candy canes will be provided after the hike. [Please register for this hike here](https://forms.gle/e7mLpRt2zWev2WnB6) to receive alerts and specifics about this event.

We’re still working to get more people into these Meetups, but our goal is to give PlayYourCourt members a few social tennis outings each week in addition to your practice sessions and Challenge League matches. These Meetups are co-ed, super laid back, and all skill levels are welcome. Post your skill level and a suggested court in the comments section so we can round up as many players as we can for some tennis fun! Also, if you’re looking to meet new practice partners or play some matches and you aren’t already in the PlayYourCourt Community, you can go here to see what we’re all about and sign up: https://www.playyourcourt.com/tennis-community/columbus-oh/meetup/ If you love tennis, we’d love to have you! Be sure and watch the quick video that explains how everything works. Happy hitting! - Scott