Hiking

It's a little early for the Wearing of the Green, because the trees and grass are still brown. But you can wear green! The trails in Great Falls National Park, Virginia, offer spectacular views of the Potomac Gorge and Difficult Run--especially now before the vegetation fills out. This hike will be a repeat of January 4th, 4.6 miles at a leisurely pace. We will start on the Old Carriage Road and winding Swamp Trail. Then onto the Ridge and Difficult Run Trails, including hills and a detour to a waterfall. Return ralong the Ridge trail and more difficult River Trail, which has short but steep hills; steps; mini-rock scrambles; and clifftop overlooks. We will pause at several overlooks and finish at the overlooks of Great Falls. Bring; hiking boots (no smooth-soled shoes), water, and snacks for a rest stop halfway through the hike. Start time: Meet at 10:30 and start walking at 10:45. Pace: average 2.0 mph (faster on the early flat section, slower on the later rocky section) AllTrails map: We will mostly follow the AllTrails "River, Ridge, CCT, and Swamp Trails" in reverse: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/great-falls-loop-river-ridge-cct-and-swamp-trails Custom Alltrails map: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/custom-route-382bf19?p=-1&sh=fuqxr6&utm_medium=map_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality Meeting point: Meet at 10:30 am for sign-ins and introductions, at the bottom of the ramp to the Visitor Center (the entrance facing the parking lot). Street address is 9200 Old Dominion Dr, McLean, VA 22102. Allow extra drive time for construction delays on Georgetown Pike and George Washington Parkway. Meeting place coordinates: https://maps.app.goo.gl/kAY7ou858TqCAJeK7?g_st=ipc Park entrance fee: NO CASH ACCEPTED. $20 per car or $35 annually. Free with a National Park pass. Carpools can be arranged by using the Meetup Comments section. (Hike leader can take 1-2 passengers from Eastern Market or Rosslyn metro station if willing to go early.) Facilities: The park has restrooms and a snack bar located "under" the Visitor Center. Contact Information: Please use the Meetup Comments for routine comments and questions. Hike leaders are Amber 703-231-5978 and Peter 703-999-9435. However, there is NO cell service in the park, so hike leaders will not get last-minute messages. RSVP: Sign-up ends at 6:00 pm the night before. Please do not show up unregistered. If you can't make the hike, please cancel your RSVP by 6 pm the night before to allow others on the waiting list to join. To find out more about PATC, see www.patc.net Consider becoming a member of PATC. To join, see www.patc.net/membership

Social Sips & Bites family - it’s time to wear your green and bring your Irish spirit. We’re heading to Kalypso’s Tavern for a St. Patrick’s celebration packed with festive vibes, great company, and special deals on food and drinks. What to expect: • Irish favorites like corned beef & cabbage • Shepherd’s pie and other hearty classics • Guinness specials • A lively crowd and that classic SSB energy Whether you’re coming for the food, the drinks, or just the fun, this is one of those nights you don’t want to miss. Come hungry. Come social. Let’s turn Kalypso’s green together. 🍀

Brisk 3- to 4-mile urban hike starting and ending at Red Bear Brewing Company across from NoMa metro. We will hike the Metropolitan Trail to the Basilica, then return to Red Bear for drinks and food.

Trail Mix: Worship on the Move on the W&OD Trail Tuesdays \| 6PM \| Meet at the Picnic Tables @ Vine \(2501 Gallows Rd\) Step out onto the W&OD Trail for a unique worship experience that blends scripture, prayer, movement, and creation. Walk, jog, or run at your own pace as we encounter God outdoors—and share trail mix together when we return. All are welcome. Come ready to move, breathe, pray, and be surprised by the Spirit. thevineva.org

Regular boba tea meetup for people to meet, make new friends, or enjoy general conversations. Great for those who are new in town or find new activities to do!

Let's play some games together at Steinhardt. If you have any board or card games to share, please bring them! Hi friends, I am changing this game night to Tuesday, hope everyone can still come. :)

**Details** Get ready to hit the trails at Turkey Run - this is a shorter version of our Turkey Run hike at just 3.6 miles. This hike is a bit challenging, with a couple of **stream crossings**, and a couple of **significant elevation gains** (a total of 377 feet of elevation gain). Ideal for **intermediate 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)** 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:** 3.6 miles **Elevation Gain:** 377 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:** 2.5 hours This hike is expected to take approximately **2.5 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 (north)](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-july-28-2025-ee492a6?u=i&sh=ylk43q) **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.

This Shenandoah National Park out-and-back hike starts at the Dickey Ridge Trailhead before reaching the North Entrance pay station. A pretty stream runs parallel with the trail for about a mile until we begin an ascent to our turn around point where the trail again intersects with Skyline Drive. At this time of year, we should see early spring flowers! Sections of the trail are rocky, and there are several very small “rock hop” water crossings. Elevation gain is about 600 ft. We typically hike about 2 mph; however, we leave no one behind and will move at a pace that is comfortable for all. Breaking for flower photos is encouraged! **Group Size:** 20 hikers **Time to Meet:** Please meet 15-20 minutes prior to hike start for introductions and liability waiver sign in. If you can't make the hike, please edit your RSVP with 24-48 hours notice if possible to open a spot for another hiker. This request also applies to those on the waitlist. **Meeting Location/Parking:** 17065 Skyline Drive, Front Royal, VA There is ample shoulder parking on both sides of Skyline Drive adjacent to the marked Dickey Ridge Trailhead although carpooling is encouraged to conserve spots. Heading south on Skyline Drive, the trailhead is on the right BEFORE the Front Royal/North Entrance Pay Station. **Facilities:** No restroom is available at the trailhead. **Admission:** Park fee or pass. https://www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/fees.htm **Contact Information**: Please use the comments feature for comments and questions. The hike leader is Lisa Peterson. **Cancellation**: In the event that the hike needs to be cancelled, hikers will be notified through comments on this posting. Please check Meetup for updates. **What to Bring:** Water at least two liters, emergency contact information, personal first aid kit and medications, snacks/meal, sunscreen/protection from weather, insect repellant, trekking poles if you use them (highly recommended for hikes with water crossings), sturdy hiking footwear. Please leave pets at home. Thanks! **Notes:** * RSVP to register for this hike. If your plans change, update your RSVP. * To find out more about PATC, [click here](https://www.patc.net/). * Consider becoming a member of PATC. To join, [click here](https://www.patc.net/membership). Attendance is limited at the discretion of our hike leaders. PATC rules do not permit children under 18 years to participate in a hike without a parent or guardian present.

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. **8 mile out and back lariat hike with 800 feet of elevation gain.** **Description:** Join us for a scenic hike along Bull Run and in the adjoining forest. We will hike on the Bull Run Occoquan Trail from Hemlock Overlook Park and proceed east toward Kincheloe soccer field area and take in the sights. There are rolling hills, but they are short and spread out. We will take a lunch/snack break about halfway through. We will then return to Hemlock Overlook Park but will use the backside route. This will be a scenic and nice workout! The pace will be about 2.5 mph. There is no restroom at the trailhead so you may want to schedule a pit stop on the way before you arrive. **Bring:** At *least 2 liters of water/hydration, snacks/lunch, and sturdy hiking shoes since there are some rocky areas and tree roots. Hiking poles if you use them.* Meet at the trailhead parking lot 15 minutes early to allow everyone to sign in and get ready to hike at 9:00am. **Fee:** There is no parking fee. **Dogs are welcome.** NVHC Dog policy: [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) **Bull Run Occoquan Trail:** [https://www.novaparks.com/parks/bull-run-occoquan-trail](https://www.novaparks.com/parks/bull-run-occoquan-trail) **Meeting Place Instructions**: We are meeting at 8:45am to sign in so we can start promptly at 9am. Look for the parking area on the right side of Yates Ford Rd, across from Paradise Springs Winery. **GPS Coordinates 38.76605, -77.40652** Finding the trailhead can be difficult if you are not familiar with the area. Use 13220 Yates Ford Road, Clifton VA 20124 for Google directions. You can also plug in Paradise Springs Winery. Do not put Hemlock into your GPS as that may take you to a different parking area. **NOTE: We park in the dirt parking area across the street from Paradise Springs Winery.** Optional post-hike rehydration TBD. Any questions, please message me here or text/call @202-528-0456. If you text me, please include your name.

Join us for an exploratory hiking trip to Montgomery County, Maryland's newest park to celebrate World Water Day. *Water is life!* Royce Hanson Conservation Park at Broad Run was created to protect the Broad Run watershed, its unique geology, rare plants and wildlife, and diverse habitats. This 475-acre park hosts approx. 5 miles of natural surface trails and offers park visitors the unique opportunity to explore this valuable natural landscape through various recreational opportunities with interactions with the rich cultural heritage present across the park. Bring water, lunch, snacks, sturdy footwear, and about $8 for transportation and the Adventuring trip fee. Meet at 10:00 a.m., at the "west side" of the Rockville Metro station Kiss & Ride to form carpools. This is the side with the pedestrian bridge over Hungerford Drive, MD-355. After our hike, we may make an optional stop at Cugini's Restraurant in Poolesville, Maryland. *-RSVPs for this hike will open 2 weeks before the event.-* ***\*\*-> Please [click here](https://adventuringlgbtq.com/Adventuring_Release_Form.pdf) to review our release form. When you RSVP to an event, you affirm that you have read and agree to the terms of the release.***

*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 9.1 mile out and back hike with about a 1,300 ft elevation gain near Fort Valley, VA. The first mile is uphill to the Massanuten Trail. We follow that south to the Woodstock Tower. The views from up there are nice and unobstructed for 360 degrees. We then return the way we came. The trail is pretty well maintained but overgrown in places. Hiking pants and sticks are recommended. We'll hike at a 2.0 to 2.5 mph. We will start hiking at 0900. Hiking map: [https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/woodstock-tower-via-mine-gap-and-massanutten-trail?u=i&sh=5vghox](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/woodstock-tower-via-mine-gap-and-massanutten-trail?u=i&sh=5vghox) Grid coordinates for trailhead: 38.89716, -78.40461 Rating: B Leader: Dick Pregent 703-587-2359 Park Entry Fee: $0 **NOTE: The road to the trailhead is rough with ruts and potholes. Parking is *VERY* limited at the trailhead. Carpooling is strongly encouraged.** The suggested carpool location is at the Centerville P&R. The driving time from there to the trailhead is about 1 hour. Please arrive at the Park and Ride a few minutes before 7:30 AM to form carpool so all cars can leave at 7:30 AM. Suggested carpool fee is $5. Hike leader will not be at carpool location. Neither the Club nor the hike leaders are 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. Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy)

Let's explore the stunning vistas of Strickler Knob and Duncan Knob in Virginia's Massanutten Mountains. ## Trail Facts * **Difficulty Level: Strenuous** * **Meeting Location**: Vienna Metro Station​ South * **Meeting Time**: 9:00 AM​ * **Driving Time**: Approximately 2 hours each way​ * **Length:** 9.7 Miles * **Elevation Gain:** 2,152 Feet * **Dogs:** Allowed * **Trailhead Coordinates:** 38.708202, -78.561530 * **AllTrails Map**: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/strickler-knob-and-duncan-knob-loop **CARPOOL:** If you need a ride or can offer one, please coordinate in the event comments. Be a friend to the environment, save money, and make friends. This trail in the Massanutten Mountains is renowned for its challenging routes and breathtaking panoramic views. The trail features well-marked paths with modest climbs. The highlights of this hike are the out-and-back scrambles to Duncan Knob and Strickler Knob, both offering spectacular views. ​I expect this hike to be moderate, but caution that it can be strenous. **Trail Details:** We will meet at The Vienna Metro station on Saturday morning at 9am and drive the trailhead. The drive is about 2 hours. Upon arrival, we'll head towards Duncan Knob and make a short out-and-back hike/scramble to enjoy the view. Afterward, we'll proceed along the trail towards Strickler Knob. The out-and-back hike to Strickler Knob offers 360-degree views of the surrounding area. After returning to the junction, we'll then finish the loop, first descending and then climbing back to the parking area.​ I plan to stop at 2 Silos Brewing Co in Manassas on the way home - address is 9925 Discovery Blvd, Manassas, VA 20109. *Note: Be prepared for varying temperatures; layering is key.* **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!

(RSVPs open April 5th 8 am) Come out and enjoy discovering 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 creek crossing, C is easier, the towpath is flat and graveled. Meet: [Carderock North parking lot](https://maps.app.goo.gl/uPXMBmBAx7mTQ7366) At 9:45 am for registration, we will start hiking at 10 am. Bring: Snacks/Lunch, water, hiking shoes for a good grip on the rocks. Weather-appropriate clothing. There is a portable toilet on the Carderock north parking lot. RSVPs open April 5th 8 am 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.

We will hike at Sky Meadows State Park, 5.2 miles with an elevation gain of 1000’. The pace for this hike is suitable for beginners and families, at 1.4-1.9 mph, with slower options available as needed. The hike is referred to as a lollipop. We will meet at the Visitor Center parking lot and hike to the Boston Mill Road Trail. We will take the North Ridge Trail to the Appalachian Trail and then the Ambassador White House Trail. We will return on the North Ridge Trail and Boston Mill Road Trail. **DIRECTIONS AND PARKING:** Physical Address: 11012 Edmonds Ln., Delaplane, VA 20144 The park is less than two miles south of Paris, VA via U.S. Route 50 to Route 17 South, or seven miles north of I-66, Exit 23 on Route 17 North. The park’s main entrance is on Rt. 710/Edmonds Lane. Park in the lot at the visitor center. Sue's vehicle is a white Toyota Corolla. **RESTROOM**: Onsite at the visitor center. **THINGS TO BRING:** You will need a Virginia State Park Pass or pay a $10 fee to access the park. Dress in layers and be prepared for cold weather. Bring water, snacks, a first aid kit, hiking poles, and pack extra socks. Hiking Guides: [https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/patc-mentoring-hike-sky-meadows-d06f64a](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/patc-mentoring-hike-sky-meadows-d06f64a) [https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/document/data/trail-guide-skymeadows.pdf](https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/document/data/trail-guide-skymeadows.pdf) **Notes:** * Participants are required to sign a PATC HIKE SIGNUP SHEET AND LIABILITY form. * RSVP to register for this hike. If your plans change, update your RSVP. * To find out more about PATC, [click here](https://www.patc.net/). * Consider becoming a member of PATC. To join, [click here](https://www.patc.net/membership). Please check the night before for any updates. A hike will be cancelled due to weather conditions and Virginia Department of Transportation travel alerts. Attendance will be limited at the discretion of our hike leaders. Preference will be given to PATC members. PATC rules do not permit children under the age of 18 to participate in a hike without a parent or guardian present. Please leave your canine companions at home. Thanks!

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 8 mile hike in Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, with 1000’ elevation gain including about 2.5 miles of bushwhacking. We will begin at the Harpers Ferry train station. We will hike a loop thru town and then across the Potomac River on the Goodlow Bryon Memorial footbridge. Taking a left we will hike a couple of miles along the C&O canal before beginning the bushwhack to explore prominent sites including a hand-dug iron pit, various structures and up a road that hauled supplies to a Civil War fort (Fort Duncan). Long pants and tick spray recommended. We hike at a pace of 2.5-3.0 mph when moving. ***Bushwhacking involves walking off trail with potential obstacles such as downed trees, brush, sticker bushes, rocks, mud, stream crossings and steep uphills and downhills. Only RSVP if you are up for this adventure.*** Due to the nature of bushwhacks attendance will be limited. [Rating: B](https://nvhc.com/hikeinfo/ratings/) Leader: Ed Brimberg 703-944-9920 (C) Carpools: Arrive at the One Loudoun Park and Ride at 7:45am, carpools leave at 8:00am GPS Coordinates: 39.054674, -77.459302, [https://maps.app.goo.gl/dyK5ptbQGR7hAMV59](https://maps.app.goo.gl/dyK5ptbQGR7hAMV59) . Suggested carpool fee is $4. ***The leader will be at the carpool location.*** Driving time to the trailhead from the carpool location \~1 hour. If you are going to the trailhead, meet at the Harpers Ferry Train Station at 9:00am hike starts at 9:15am, GPS coordinates: 39.324540, -77.731047 [https://goo.gl/maps/yLmDLB9cx44Bkr4z7](https://goo.gl/maps/yLmDLB9cx44Bkr4z7) Neither the Club nor the hike leaders are 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. Parking Fee at Train Station: $20 (The only way to pay is scan the QR code on your phone) or free with National Park pass. If you have a pass please display it with signature side up on your vehicle's dashboard, where it can clearly be seen through the windshield. No dogs are permitted on this hike. AllTrails Map: [https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/harper-s-ferry-bushwack-60bb806?u=i](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/harper-s-ferry-bushwack-60bb806?u=i) \*\*\*\*You must be experienced in hikes of this distance and elevation gain. \*\*\*\*