Free Running
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out free running events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the free running events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find free running events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Free Running Events Today
Join in-person Free Running events happening right now
3 mile run in N. Kensington
We start our new run on the intersection of Woodson Ave. and Soward Dr. promptly at 6:05pm. There is street parking on Soward and Woodson. This route will take us through the Rock Creek Palisades Neighborhood near Albert Einstein High School.
STARTING AND ENDING POINT
http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/7/d/9/600_457062969.jpeg
FULL ROUTE:
http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/7/e/7/600_457062983.jpeg
Thursday Run: Ballston to Custis Trail
Come join other guys in their 20s and 30s for a friendly group run. This run is not competitive and all skill levels are welcome.
Join our [Slack](https://join.slack.com/t/arlington-run-club/shared_invite/zt-2lq70wa9t-INw_xk~MnZM~U41EQsKcXQ) to keep up to date with the group!
**MEETING SPOT:**
We'll meet a little before 6:30 PM at Ballston Local on N Glebe in front off the restaurant. See the pin below. Parking at the mall is only $1.00 after 6:00 PM. Then we'll head out right at 6:30 PM and eventually end up back where we started.
**ROUTE INFO:**
Here's our regular Thursday route, from the Bluemont Junction Trail to the W&OD Trail to the Custis Trail (about 4 miles): [https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/5952134599/](https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/5952134599/)
When viewing the route, you may want to login with a MapMyRun account and bookmark the route so you can load it later from the MapMyRun app on your phone.
**POST-RUN:**
After the run, we'll grab a drink nearby for those who are interested in sticking around.
**WEATHER:**
We won't run in the middle of a thunderstorm, but we'll still go if there's light rain. Many of us will plan to meet at the start time regardless and we can make a call then. We've learned that the weather can change quickly, so there's not much point in canceling the run prematurely.
**RSVP:**
If you are interested in joining, please join the group and then sign up for this event so we know you're coming. You're welcome to bring a friend -- all guys in their 20s and 30s are welcome -- but please have them sign up through Meetup or shoot us a message so we know how many people to expect.
PGRC Easy Run - Thursday Night
This regularly scheduled Thursday night run meets at the head of the Anacostia NE Branch trailhead. Meet at 6:30 pm for introductions and to decide what distance, time, or interval everyone's running. We hit the pavement by 6:45 pm.
This is a time-based run, usually 30 minutes out-and-back. For many it's about a 5k or more.
Runners of all abilities welcome! This is usually considered an 'easy' run. There is usually a group doing run-walk intervals, which is a great option especially for those just coming back to running.
Weekly Run 'n' Quaff
Please join members of the the Arlington Running Club each Thursday night at 6:30 PM for our weekly Run 'n' Quaff at Astro Beer Hall located at 4001 Campbell Avenue, Arlington Virginia 22206 in the Shirlington neighborhood of Arlington, Virginia.
We are a laid back group of runners that enjoys running a 5-K (3.1 mile) course each week followed the quaffing of cold refreshing adult beverages.
We have runners of all abilities from the beginning runner / walker up through marathoners and ultra runners.
Our age group spans from early twenties through late seventies and all ages in between. There is someone your age range / someone your skill level at our weekly meetups.
No check-ins, waiver forms, or administrivia.
No rules, just right.
Please join us each and every Thursday night, rain or shine, for the Arlington Running Club!
EARLY morning run - Bowie
Early riser? Need to get your run in before the kids are up and the busy-ness of the day sets in?
Join other early morning runners at the CAVA in Bowie, 15480 Annapolis Rd.
The group meets at 5:30am and promptly sets out for a 3-5 mile run along Annapolis Rd. It's best if you arrive a few minutes early.
**\*\*This is a regularly scheduled run and Kim, the run-host, does not check RSVPs on meetup. New runners are encouraged to email membership@pgrc.org for more info, prior to coming out.**
Thursday Night Run + Brewery Hangout
Join the RunDMV crew every Thursday night at **6:30pm** outside **Caboose Brewing Co.** in Vienna (520 Mill St. NE). We hit the W&OD Trail right behind the brewery for a **40-minute out-and-back run/walk**—go at your own pace, and when you hit 20 minutes, just turn around so we all finish together.
No matter if you’re walking, jogging, or pushing the pace, you’ll have company out there. Each week we switch directions (east one week, west the next) to keep things fresh.
After the run, we stick around for food and drinks at Caboose—because half the fun of run club is hanging out afterward. 🍻
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: NFT 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).
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**The Ride : Detail**
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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.
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**The Meeting Spot:**
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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.
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**The Ride After The Ride:**
***(This is the "Thirsty" part of the ride)***
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Southside 815
815 South Washington St.
Alexandria, VA 22314
703.836.6222
[http://www.southside815.com/](http://www.southside815.com/)
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**Ride Level Chart**
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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.
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**The Fine Print:**
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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.
Free Running Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Instructor Connect Brunch
We’re bringing together a small group of fitness instructors and aspiring instructors for a casual brunch to connect and build within the fitness community.
Sunday, May 17
1:30 PM
Ted’s Bulletin – Capitol Hill
Limited to 6 seats.
**RSVP to save your seat:**
www.instructorconnect.org
**Join the mailing list on the site for future events.**
(RSVP does not subscribe you.)
Sunday Morning Long Run
Come out and run with us along the shady Anacostia Tributary Trails!
These runs tend to be longer than our other club runs. Average mileage is 4-6 miles, but some members might go farther (and others shorter).
We meet in front of Mission BBQ at 8:00AM for introductions, then walk over together to the Indian Creek Trailhead.
We are always happy to welcome new faces (and feet)!
Saturday Run - 50 min (25 out and 25 back)
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.
Sundays In The Park series
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.
Sunday Skate with The Washington Area Roadskaters!
# Sunday Morning Roll: Capitol Hill & Southwest Loop! 🛼
Oil those bearings and get ready for a scenic cruise through the heart of the District! This Sunday, **Big Mike** leads the **Washington Area Roadskaters** on a high-energy loop featuring some of DC’s most iconic skate-able terrain.
From the historic greenery of **Stanton and Lincoln Parks** to the wide-open stretches of the **RFK Campus**, this route is packed with smooth pavement and great vibes. We’ll swing through the **Southwest Waterfront**, pass the stadiums, and cap it all off with a fast finish through the **12th Street Tunnel**—always a group favorite for that smooth, underground glide!
***
### 📍 Meeting Details
* **WHERE:** Pershing Park (Corner of 14th St & Pennsylvania Ave NW).
* **NOTE:** We are meeting here while Freedom Plaza is still under renovation!
* **WHEN:** Sunday, May 17th
* **MEET TIME:** 10:00 AM
* **ROLL TIME:** 10:10 AM sharp!
* **DISTANCE:** \~13 miles
***
### 🗺️ The Route
**Route Map:** [https://onthegomap.com/s/dk1kq25o](https://onthegomap.com/s/dk1kq25o)
* **Capitol Hill Classics:** We’ll roll through the beautiful neighborhoods and parks of the Hill.
* **The RFK Stretch:** Plenty of room to open up the stride.
* **Southwest Waterfront & Navy Yard:** Catch the river breeze as we skate past the Wharf and Nats Park.
* **The 12th Street Tunnel:** We wrap things up with a run through this fan-favorite tunnel back to the Mall!
***
### ⚠️ Vital Info
* **Skill Level:** This is a street skate. Skaters should be comfortable with urban obstacles, navigating traffic, and maintaining a steady pace.
* **Safety First:** Helmets are strongly encouraged! Wrist guards and pads are always a smart move.
* **Stay Hydrated:** Bring water and maybe a snack for the mid-point breather.
Let’s make it a great roll! Tag your skate buddies and we'll see you at Pershing Park! 🏁
**#WAR #WashingtonAreaRoadskaters #WeAreSkateDC #DCSkate #InlineSkating #Rollerblading #SundaySkate #StreetSkating #DCFitness #ExploreDC**
For up to the minute details, check Facebook and Instagram.
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/WashingtonAreaRoadskaters/events
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/weareskatedc/
We hope to see you Sunday!
Take a Hike! @ Turkey Run
**NOTE: THIS IS NOT RECOMMENDED FOR INEXPERIENCED HIKERS.**
**Details**
Get ready to hit the trails at Turkey Run - this is a 5.38 mile hike at Turkey Run. This hike is a bit challenging, with a couple of **stream crossings**, and a couple of **significant elevation gains** (a total of 456 feet of elevation gain). Ideal for **intermediate to advanced hikers**.
The trail includes shallow stream crossings, adding some fun technical elements along the way. We’ll take regular breaks to regroup, hydrate, and enjoy the scenery. **Hiking shoes are a must -** the trail is slippery, and the extra grip of hiking shoes is essential for safety. Also, don’t forget your **hiking poles**; they’ll be helpful at the stream crossings.
After the hike, join us for a social gathering at \*\**Chiang Mai Thai Cookhouse [(6828 Old Dominion Dr., McLean)](https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=4250880837db9923fe99316769050373b426a317e7bdf43931605d5b92eba921JmltdHM9MTc3NDkxNTIwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=108cd8d6-7e8f-6b13-174d-ce097fb86ad8&u=a1L21hcHM_Jm1lcGk9NTZ-fkVtYmVkZGVkfkFkZHJlc3NfTGluayZ0eT0xOCZxPUNoaWFuZyUyME1haSUyMFRoYWklMjBDb29raG91c2Umc3M9eXBpZC5ZTjg0NDI0Nzc2MDUyNTc5NzcmcHBvaXM9MzguOTM0NzY4Njc2NzU3ODFfLTc3LjE3OTQzNTcyOTk4MDQ3X0NoaWFuZyUyME1haSUyMFRoYWklMjBDb29raG91c2VfWU44NDQyNDc3NjA1MjU3OTc3fiZjcD0zOC45MzQ3Njl-LTc3LjE3OTQzNiZ2PTImc1Y9MSZGT1JNPU1QU1JQTA)* to unwind, grab a bite, and enjoy time with fellow hikers.
**Meeting Time & Location**
Meet at 9:30 AM at Turkey Run’s Parking Lot C-1.
**Distance:** 5.38 miles
**Elevation Gain:** 456 feet
**Difficulty Level:** Intermediate Hike (challenging stream crossings)
This hike features moderate inclines and **challenging stream crossings** over slippery rocks. Hiking poles are recommended for added balance and stability.
**Estimated Duration:** 3 hours
This hike is expected to take approximately **3 hours**, which accounts for breaks, stream crossings, and group pace.
**Pace:** Moderate Pace
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**
Park in Turkey Run’s **Lot C-1,** where there's plenty of room for all. Grab a spot, lace up, and get ready to hit the trail!
**Trail Map (AllTrails):** [Take a Hike! @ Turkey Run](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-367d794?u=i&sh=mdqqtd)
**Bathrooms**
There are no bathrooms available on this hike. Please plan accordingly.
**Age Requirement:** Children under 18 are not permitted. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
**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**
Join us for a casual lunch at **Chiang Mai Thai Cookhouse (6828 Old Dominion Dr., McLean)**. Free parking is available in the garage off Beverly Rd.
Hike at Windy Run Park in Arlington
Join me and our member Yazmin M for a Sunday afternoon hike at Windy Run Park in Arlington!
Getting to the waterfall at Windy Run is a fun little adventure right in Arlington! Most of the walk through the woods is nice and easy, but we will hop on some rocks to cross a couple of streams and go down a set of steep steps alongside the 35 foot waterfall.
Yazmin says: I usually take my time going down as my left knee can be achy at times :)
The hike should take about one hour and fifteen minutes. Wear shoes with good grip, and bring a water bottle, and mosquito repellent.
We will meet by the park entrance on N Kenmore street. Yazmin recommends you park on the cul-de-sac around 2455 N Kenmore St, Arlington, VA 22207.
Let us know if anyone needs a ride from Metro, we'd be happy to help with carpooling. Hope to see you!
Free Running Events Near You
Connect with your local Free Running community
Brunch Club: Make New Friends
⚠️ **IMPORTANT: You must sign up and buy a ticket here to attend:**
[https://groupvibe.com/](https://groupvibe.com/)
**Join the Columbus City Brunch Club and make new friends!**
Each meetup brings together 4–6 people for casual conversations over brunch. We use the Groupvibe platform to facilitate the meetup and ensure everyone’s a good fit.
👉 **To attend, you’ll need to complete registration via this link:**
[https://groupvibe.com/](https://groupvibe.com/)
We’ll share the exact location of the upcoming meetup the night before only if you have bought a ticket or membership plan.
**Why this works:**
\* Smaller groups make real conversations easier.
\* Discover new restaurants in your city, together.
\* Curated lunch venues with good food and vibe.
\* If you hit it off with your group, there’s plenty of time to hang out afterwards.
**Note:**
RSVPs on Meetup don’t reflect total attendance. Many attendees register directly via our website. The event on [Meetup.com](http://meetup.com/) is only a placeholder.
This meetup is organized by Groupvibe, a small team passionate about helping people form meaningful friendships offline.
Rocky Fork Hike
Join us this Thursday (5/14) at 6:30 pm at Rocky Fork Metro Park in Westerville as we walk about 2.5 miles of a fully paved trail. The Beech Woodland trail is a flat yet scenic trail with a variety of landscapes. Let’s take it in together!
Three Creeks Metro Park
We'll get in around 4 miles at Three Creeks Metro Parks, primarily natural trails. 17-18 minute miles, no one left behind, and faster walkers are free to lead out.
Optional lunch after!
If you're joining for hiking all the metro parks, this is the sixth one!
Sunday Brunch
Sleep in on Sundays. When you've had your fill of pajama-time, roll out and have some tasty brunch with your fellow Humanists!
Hike Blendon Woods Metro Park
Hi ladies. We will meet in front of the Nature Center and head to the two Observation decks. We will then hike Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook and Sugarbush trails to get approximately four miles total distance. We will walk approximately a 18 minute mile pace. Please wear appropriate hiking shoes.






























