Hiking

\ ストーリーハウスの言語交換会を再開します。 日本語または英語の上達を目指して、ぜひチャレンジしてみてください！ポジティブな気持ちで参加して、お互いに励まし合いながら、集中して成​​長しましょう。言語交換会は、日本語と英語の半分ずつに分けて行います。他の言語を開催できる場合は、時間を追加します。 使いたい教材があればご持参ください。また、必要に応じてメモが取れるように、ノートも必ずご持参ください。気軽におしゃべりしたり、会話に参加したりしてください。 参加費は無料ですが、カフェでご注文をお願いいたします。 We are reintroducing our Storyhouse Language Exchange. Push yourself to improve Japanese or English! Come with a positive attitude, and encourage each other to focus and grow. We will split the language exchange into half, between Japanese and English. If additional languages are available, we will add time. Bring any study materials you want to use. And be sure to bring writing utensils so you can take notes as you need. Feel free to talk and participate in conversations. There is no participation fee, but please make your order at the cafe.

イングリッシュHang outやってます！ イングリッシュハングアウトとは、簡単にいうと「英語でおしゃべりする会」です！ Hangoutとは、日本語で”(友達と)遊ぶ”という意味で、おしゃべりとかゲームをしながら室内でリラックスしながら過ごす感じです。 それをカフェで英語でハングアウトしましょう！という時間です。 どなたでも、予約なしで参加していただけます。途中参加退席自由です。カフェでのオーダーをお願いします。 英語の練習をしたいけど、英会話教室に行くほどではないけど気軽にしゃべる機会を探している人や、英語で話せる友達を探している人にぴったりです。 We are hosting a casual English hangout time for locals to connect with international travelers & our international staff. Anyone can join. Even if your English level is very low, you can still listen and learn. The conversations are open, and you may join or leave at any time. Please make one order from the cafe.

***NOTE: NOT RECOMMENDED FOR INEXPERIENCED HIKERS.*** Come enjoy a day filled with fresh air, great views, and friendly company as we hike **Sugarloaf Mountain!** This hike is all about enjoying the outdoors, getting some exercise, making new friends, and sharing a memorable experience with a great group of people. We’ll meet at the **West View Parking Lot** (check the map pin for the exact location) and head out on a **5.4-mile loop** that will take about **3 hours**. The hike follows the Blue Loop trail, to White Rock, where we’ll pause to take in the stunning views, snap some photos, and catch our breath. After the hike, join us for a casual meetup at **Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard**. Feel free to bring your own food, but there's usually a food truck on premises. Please remember that outside alcohol is not allowed, but the vineyard offers wine by the glass for purchase. It’s the perfect way to relax, enjoy good conversation, and toast to a fantastic day spent outdoors. We’re excited to have you join us! Be sure to wear your hiking shoes, bring water, and pack your positive energy. Let’s make this a fun and refreshing fall day together! **Meeting Time & Location:** We’ll meet at **9:30 AM** at the Sugarloaf Mountain West View Parking Lot. Look for us by the picnic tables near the trailhead. **Distance:** 5.4 miles **Elevation Gain:** 1,063 feet **Difficulty:** Intermediate / Advanced Hike This hike is rated Intermediate to Advanced based on it's moderate inclines / elevation changes. There are no stream crossings or rock scrambles. **Estimated Duration** This hike is expected to take approximately 3 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** We’ll park at the **West View Parking Lot**, which has plenty of spaces available and is a convenient starting point for our hike. Please refer to the event map to locate the correct parking area. Do not park at the East View Parking Area, which is the first parking area you’ll pass. **Trail Map (AllTrails)** [Take a Hike! (DMV) - Sugarloaf Mountain](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/map-april-11-2025-367147f?u=i&sh=mdqqtd) Preview the hiking route on AllTrails to get familiar with the terrain. Download the map in advance to follow along and stay on track during the hike. **Restrooms** There are a couple of porta-potties located at the trailhead for your convenience. Be sure to plan accordingly, as these are the only restroom facilities available on this hike. **Lunch After the Hike** Join us after the hike, for a relaxed lunch at the ***[Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard](https://www.smvwinery.com),*** *[18125 Comus Rd, Dickerson, MD 20842](https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=f71cbf26ae99198622b7ba5f47ae7aad1a0b204a683794057a007958f4a2895dJmltdHM9MTc3NDkxNTIwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=108cd8d6-7e8f-6b13-174d-ce097fb86ad8&u=a1L21hcHM_Jm1lcGk9MH5-RW1iZWRkZWR-QWRkcmVzc19MaW5rJnR5PTE4JnE9U3VnYXJsb2FmJTIwTW91bnRhaW4lMjBWaW5leWFyZCZzcz15cGlkLllOODhEOTZGM0FFQTNENjZDNCZwcG9pcz0zOS4yNTA5Njg5MzMxMDU0N18tNzcuMzc5NDkzNzEzMzc4OV9TdWdhcmxvYWYlMjBNb3VudGFpbiUyMFZpbmV5YXJkX1lOODhEOTZGM0FFQTNENjZDNH4mY3A9MzkuMjUwOTY5fi03Ny4zNzk0OTQmdj0yJnNWPTEmRk9STT1NUFNSUEw)* Feel free to bring your own food or simply enjoy a glass of wine with the group. Please note that outside alcohol is not permitted, but the vineyard offers a wonderful selection of wines available for purchase. There are food trucks on site as well. This is a wonderful chance to relax, take in the scenic views, and connect with the group.

During the month of April Juanatán will guide you on a short but beautiful hike at Riverbend Park. This journey of just under 4 miles will take you through varied habitat types with a chance of seeing bluebells in bloom. We will meet at the Vienna South Metro Station at 8:00 AM and carpool to the trailhead. Drive time is about 30 minutes. Please post a comment if you are willing to drive. Carpooling saves the environment and makes friends! ## **Trail Facts** * **Difficulty Level:** Easy * **Length:** 4 Miles * **Duration:** 3 hrs (Including plenty of time for taking pictures.) * **Elevation Gain:** 324 Feet * **Permits:** None. * **Parking:** Vienna South Metro Station (Search for ¨NOVA Trailblazers Carpooling Location¨ on Google Maps.) (Parking is free on weekends.) * **Dogs:** Allowed on a leash at the park. (But not inside the restaurant.) * **Trailhead Coordinates:** 39.01872734604616, -77.24625717031695 * **AllTrails Map**: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-91328d0?u=m&sh=kucj8c **Trail Details:** After using the restrooms we will follow the Potomac Heritage Trail along the river and enjoy the views, potentially seeing Virginia bluebells along the way. We will then pass by Carper's Pond and start following the Bootlegger Trail, which will take us through some wetlands and then a meadow. We will then start making our way back down to the river by following Madison's Escape Trail, Follow the Hollows Trail, and then the Bootlegger Trail once again. After that we will take the Potomac Heritage Trail along the river until we return to the Visitor Center. Afterwards I am planning to stop by Deli Italiano in Great Falls, VA. The address is 9911 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls, VA 22066. **Itinerary:** 8:00 AM: Meet at the Vienna South Metro Station. 8:15 AM: Depart for the trailhead. 9:00 AM: Arrive and begin the hike. 12:00 PM: Finish the hike, drive to Deli Italiano, and eat. 1:30 PM: Depart for the carpooling location. 2:00 PM: Arrive at the Vienna South Metro Station. *(Setting the end time to 3:00 PM to allow time for the unexpected.)* **LIABILITY NOTICE:** Please remember that this group operates under the common adventurer model. We are a group of friends and volunteers organizing trips for fun and shared experience. Participants are expected to be familiar with best hiking practices and choose hikes that align with their physical abilities and experience. Organizers and members are not liable for any injuries, loss, or damage to persons or property arising from group activities. By attending this event, you agree to assume all risks associated with the activity.​ For more information on the common adventurer model, please see [Ron Watters' definition](https://www.ronwatters.com/CADefine.htm).​ If you believe you may be lost during the hike, follow the advice of the [US Forest Service](https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/know-before-you-go/if-you-get-lost).​ See you on the trail! **[Featured Image Source](https://www.funinfairfaxva.com/potomac-hike-bluebells-and-sycamores-at-riverbend-park/)**

Meet new friends and enjoy a **medium/low difficulty hike** at Ball’s Bluff Regional Park! This hike focuses on good conversation and fresh air as we hike through wooded trails, with scenic views of the Potomac River. It’s a perfect way to connect with others who love the outdoors and take in the natural beauty of Leesburg during this 3-hour hike. Ball’s Bluff Regional Park is a hidden gem rich in history and natural beauty. The park features winding forest trails, scenic river views, and quiet spots perfect for taking a break or chatting with fellow hikers. Once the site of a Civil War battle, it’s now a serene place to enjoy nature and experience a peaceful escape just minutes from downtown Leesburg. **Meeting Time & Location:** 9:30 AM at the **Ball's Bluff Regional Park Parking Lot**. **Distance:** 5.34 miles (approximately) **Elevation Gain:** 643 feet **Difficulty:** Moderate Hike This hike features natural trails with moderate difficulty, including some elevation gains. We recommend wearing sturdy hiking shoes to navigate this terrain comfortably. **Estimated Duration:** 3 hours. **Waitlist Policy** To keep things fair, hikers will be moved off the waitlist in this order: **1\. Regular Hikers:** Those who join hikes often get first priority. **2\. Past Hikers:** Next are returning hikers, based on attendance and cancellation history. Frequent cancellations may lower priority. **3\. New Hikers:** New members will be added as space allows. **Age Requirement:** **Children under 18 are not permitted** to ensure a comfortable experience for all participants. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. **Pace:** Moderate. 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. **Trail Map:** [Ball's Bluff - 5.34mi loop](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-ball-s-bluff-red-and-orange-loop-0010dae?u=i&sh=mdqqtd) **Restrooms:** Restrooms are not available on this hike. **Lunch After the Hike:** After we wrap up our hike, we invite you to join us for a relaxed lunch together. We'll meet for a casual lunch at **[Vanish Farmwoods Brewery,](https://maps.app.goo.gl/RRviGPewRvUmow46A)** *[42245 Black Hops Lane](https://maps.app.goo.gl/RRviGPewRvUmow46A)* *[Leesburg, VA 20176](https://maps.app.goo.gl/RRviGPewRvUmow46A)*

**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.

Come out and enjoy hiking amongst the spring flowers blooming along the Potomac this time of the year. We will hike about 6 miles on the Billy Goat Trail section B & section C. Billy Goat Trail section B re-opened this spring after being closes since after a flood in 2018 We will do an 8 loop alternating hiking on the Billy Goat trails and on the towpath, we will be on natural terrain trails, Billy goat trail is pretty rocky with some rock scrambling and stream crossing, C is easier with a 2d stream crossing, the towpath is flat and graveled. Meet: [Carderock North parking lot](https://maps.app.goo.gl/uPXMBmBAx7mTQ7366) At 8:45 am for registration, we will start hiking at 9 am. Bring: Snacks/Lunch, water, hiking shoes for a good grip on the rocks. Hiking poles for the stream crossing if needed. Weather-appropriate clothing. There is a portable toilet on the Carderock north parking lot. For carpooling, the closest metro stations are the ones on the Red line: Friendship Heights, Bethesda, Medical Center, Grosvenor-Strathmore. Arrange for carpool in Meetup Comments, on your own. To participate in this event, you must: 1: Read the liability waiver (officially, the Sierra Club Participation Agreement) http://bit.ly/3Qd4F1B 2: Tap ATTEND at the bottom of this event 3: When prompted, type ’I accept’ to the liability waiver, your first and last name, your contact cell number, and an emergency contact number – Example: I accept, Jane Doe, (703) 555-5555, (301) 666-6666”