Hiking

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 8.8 mile with 75 ft elevation out and back hike on the Potomac Heritage Trail in Loudoun County. On this hike we'll experience scenic Goose Creek as it flows into the expanse of the Potomac. There is also a lot of history as we hike along the ruins of the Goose Creek Canal ( see the background information below) and Selden Island which is privately owned and is known for it's prehistoric archaeological sites dating back to 1000BC. We will begin at Riverpoint Drive trailhead (Porta Potty is available) and follow Goose Creek and then the Potomac to our turnaround at Bles Park where there are restrooms. **Background History**: In 1849, construction began on a system of locks and dams to render the Goose Creek navigable up to three large mills in the Loudoun Valley. By 1845, the [Goose Creek and Little River Navigation Company](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Goose_Creek_and_Little_River_Navigation_Company&action=edit&redlink=1) canal system had been completed on Goose Creek to Ball's (Evergreen) Mill, 12 miles (19 km) upstream from the mouth. Though the lower portion of the canal saw significant usage, only one boat was ever known to have traveled the whole stretch, and by 1857 the canal was put out of business by the completion of the [Alexandria, Loudoun and Hampshire Railroad](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Washington_and_Old_Dominion_Railroad) to Leesburg. Most of the locks and dams were destroyed by the [Union Army](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Union_Army) during the [Civil War](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Civil_War). We hike at a pace of \~ 2.5 mph while moving. You must have experience with hikes of this length and elevation gain. Meet at the Riverpoint Drive Trailhead at 8:45am for sign-in. Restroom (Porta Potty) is available at the Trailhead Dogs are welcome on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicyhttps://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolic](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) Leaders: Steve Frith cell 703-629-0174 Park Entry Fee: $0.00 Map for hike: https://www.gaiagps.com/map/?loc=11.3/-77.4740/39.0851

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. 🍻

Thursday Hike: Rock Creek Western Ridge, Northern Section; 6.6 or 9 Miles, your choice. Enjoy this 6.6 or 9-mile loop trail in Rock Creek Park. The hike is generally considered a moderate route and takes an average of 3.5 hours to complete the first part and 1.5 hours for the second. The hike rambles through rolling hills that will make you feel far removed from city life. As this is a weekday hike, we will encounter relatively few others on the trails. We will pass by the site of a civil war fort, a "ford" crossing in use in years past, and the cabin of the “Poet of Rock Creek," Joaquin Miller. We also pass by a large community urban garden. There is a fun stream crossing, so feel free to bring a pole if you wish. After the hike, feel free to join us for a quick lunch. The optional extended hike begins after the lunch. This 2.7-mile hike travels through the middle section of Rock creek through lesser used trails. There are some hills and a small stream crossing. The 6.6 mile hike will end around 1:30 PM. The 9 mile hike will end around 2:30 PM. The trails are open year-round and beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. Toilets are available at the start and finish of the hike. Please note. You must register by 9:00 PM the night before the hike. We also ask that if you sign up and decide not to attend, please sign out, by 9:00 PM the night before the hike. We often have a waiting list and signing out allows others to sign in. If you do not attend and have not signed out at least one hour before the hike begins, you will be considered a no-show. **Time to Meet**: Please meet at 9:45 for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 10:00 **Directions to Trailhead**: We meet at the Rock Creek Nature Center and Planetarium, 5200 Glover Rd NW, Washington, DC 20015. The GPS coordinates are 38.96062, -77.05157 **Contact Information**: Please use the comments feature for routine comments and questions. The hike Leader is Tim; 202-744-0289. Call or text as needed. **Details** Rating: Moderate Distance: 6.6 or 9 miles Elevation Gain: 630 feet for the 6.6 mile hike, 909 for the 9-mile hike. Pace: 2.0 to 2.5 miles per hour **Facilities**: Toilets can be found near the trailhead **Fees**: No entrance fees **Cancellation**: In the unlikely event that the hike needs to be cancelled, it may be cancelled up to the evening before the hike. Hikers will be notified through comments on this posting. **Weather**: The weather for this location can be found [here](https://weather.com/weather/today/l/7396101a49100eaa70080ede34244e1a9ae8e2a237da460c85e6472f1c8ed113). **Maximum number of hikers**: 15 **Notes**: -Please note, you must sign up at by 9:00 PM the day before the hike. -Please do not show up unregistered. -Please keep this a fragrance free event. -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).

Bonsoir à tous! Venez nombreux pour causer autour d'un repas ou d'un verre chez La Madeleine. On n'a que deux règles: (1) qu'on y parle exclusivement le français et (2) qu'on achète quelque chose à boire ou à manger (c'est La Madeleine qui le demande). Merci et à bientôt!

Live music every Thursday night at Jimmy’s. [Jimmy’s upcoming events.](https://www.jottnew.com/upcoming-events.html)

Join us at **Hashtag** on **Thurs., Jan. 15th at 6pm**. Adventure and roll dice with this week's **Starfinder** **GM: Maria**! **The Game:** [Starfinder](https://paizo.com/starfindersociety) 2e is a role-playing game similar to Pathfinder 2e (or Dungeons & Dragons) but with magic *and* technology. In this one-shot, you can jump in easily as a new player or join if you're more experienced. \*\*\* **The story:** First Seeker Sarmak has called on scientist Dr. Heldin Sevaille to create an inoculation for the mysterious “conversion” which is transforming wildlife and people on Akiton. The final ingredient she requires is in a remote forest on Marata, one of Bretheda’s moons. A team of Starfinders is needed to collect samples of this rare plant with a few local scientists. But trouble is brewing… the Frozen Trove, a notorious biotech corporation, is also on Marata and is putting the entire ecosystem at risk. **Notes**: Replayable (with a different character), this IS a metaplot adventure (but is more like a side quest related to it). \*\*\*\* **The Characters:** You can use an [level 1 pregenerated character](https://paizo.com/starfinder) *or* make your [own character](https://paizo.com/starfindersociety/characteroptions) using the Starfinder 2e rules. Let me know ahead of time if you need me to bring copies of the pregen character sheets (recommended for new players). This is a level 1-2 adventure, so if you're been playing Starfinder, you can bring a character in that range. -Some options for character building are [Starbuilder 2e](https://pathbuilder2e.com/app.html?v=102b) (made by the maker of Pathbuilder!), [Hephaistos](https://sf2e.hephaistos.online/), [Demiplane](https://app.demiplane.com/characters), using the Starfinder Player Core and pen/[paper](https://downloads.paizo.com/RemasterPlayerCoreCharacterSheet.pdf#), etc. You can use character options from the [Invasion's Edge Player's Guide](https://downloads.paizo.com/OP-Files/SFS+Invasions+Edge+Players+Guide.pdf) as well. If you have any questions, feel free to comment or send a message.

Dulles Town Center Mall Hike: Meet at the entrance to the right of the Regal Movie Theater. A Test of Endurance Join us for a 6-mile trek through the treacherous terrain of Dulles Town Center mall. This hike is rated as physically easy, but don't be fooled - the mental challenges will push even the most seasoned hikers to their limits. Hazards Include: The intoxicating aroma of freshly baked Cinnabon, threatening to derail even the most disciplined of diets. Endless rows of high-end storefronts, beckoning you to indulge in some serious retail therapy. Balmy 70-degree temperatures, lulling you into a false sense of comfort. Blinding fluorescent lights, capable of disorienting even the most experienced navigator. Will You Emerge Victorious? Afterwards we'll head over to The Bungalow Lake house 46116 Lake Center Plaza, Sterling, VA 20165 for their delicious brunch cuisine.

Please join Juanatán for his first hike of the year. This easy journey of 7 miles along Gallows Road and the W&OD Trail is a great way to ease back into hiking after the holiday season. We will meet at the Dunn Loring Metro Station at 11:00 AM, which is where we will begin and end our hike. ## **Trail Facts** * **Difficulty Level:** Easy * **Length:** 7.0 Miles * **Duration:** 4-5 hrs (Including our mid-hike meal.) * **Elevation Gain:** 190 Feet * **Permits:** None. * **Parking:** Dunn Loring Metro Station (38.881420295263695, -77.23054005314158) (Garage parking is free on weekends.) * **Dogs:** Not allowed. (The restaurant stop is built into the hike.) * **Trailhead Coordinates:** 38.88278986565736, -77.22841745233727 * **AllTrails Map**: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-5227c8e?u=i&sh=kucj8c **Trail Details:** Our route will take us from an urban landscape to a ¨green¨ corridor and back. While there won't be much greenery at this time of the year, we may see some birds and mammals along our route. **Itinerary:** 11:00 AM: Meet at the trailhead. 11:15 AM: Depart the trailhead. 12:30 PM: Arrive at Caboose Brewing. 2:00 PM: Start return trip. 3:15 PM: Arrive at trailhead. *(Setting the end time to 4:00 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://maps.app.goo.gl/6LLSkiWQqqbBiycJ7)**

This out-and-back moderately strenuous hike within the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests includes mountain views, unique rocky terrain, and beautiful overlooks. We will hike on the Buzzard Rock Trail and turnaround after a break at the overlook. The hike is about 6.2 miles with approximately 1,387 feet of elevation and is known to be rocky. **Hike Route**: [https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/overlook-via-buzzard-rock](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/overlook-via-buzzard-rock) **Hiking Pace**: We typically hike about 2 mph (faster on flat sections, slower on hilly / rocky sections); however, we leave no one behind and will move at a pace that is comfortable for all. **What to Bring**: At least two liters of water, emergency contact information, personal first aid kit and medications, snacks/meal, sunscreen, insect repellant, trekking poles if you use them, sturdy hiking footwear. Please leave pets at home. **Time to Meet**: Please meet by 8:45 for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 9:00 am. 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. There is often limited/no cell service in the area, so hike leaders may not receive messages the day of the hike. **Meeting Place**: Google Map to Buzzard Rock Parking Area: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/moycivj2XfMXLXgH9](https://maps.app.goo.gl/moycivj2XfMXLXgH9) **Facilities:** No bathrooms **Contact Information**: Please use the comments feature for routine comments and questions. The hike leaders are Marc (571-422-5210) and Tim (202-744-0289). Call or text if needed. **Hike Details** -Rating: Moderate -Distance: Approx. 6.2 miles -Elevation Gain: Approximately 1,387 feet -Pace: Average about 2.0 miles per hour -Fees: N/A **Cancellation**: In the unlikely event that the hike needs to be cancelled, it may be cancelled up to the evening before the hike. Hikers will be notified through comments on this posting. **Weather**: The weather for this location can be found [here](https://weather.com/weather/today/l/7611596c9eed8df601933cfa85ff3eeef158583e0252228e1428e824b442a8f6). **Notes**: -You must sign up by 9:00 PM the day before the hike. -Please do not show up unregistered. -Please keep this a fragrance-free event. -Please leave pets at home. -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.* **Description:** This is a 8½ mile hike along the CCT between Oakmont and Vale RD. Much of the hike follows Difficult Run and can be a bit muddy. There is 1 stream crossings with a total elevation gain/loss of about 300 ft. Bring water and a snack as we'll stop near Vale Rd to refuel. **Trailhead:** Park in the Oakmont Parking lot. GPS 38.8747, -77.3158 **Dogs:** Permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) **Hiking speed:** \~ 2.5 mph. **Maps:** *pdf map (approximate route)* [https://www.icloud.com/iclouddrive/018g6coEqCy7Pw0g780MQvQNQ#CCT_-_Oak_Marr_to_Vail_Rd](https://www.icloud.com/iclouddrive/018g6coEqCy7Pw0g780MQvQNQ#CCT_-_Oak_Marr_to_Vail_Rd) *GaiaGPS map* [https://www.gaiagps.com/map/?loc=13.0/-77.3245/38.8892&pubLink=wel1FFO56RLd24GpVzMO2h0L&trackId=ec62340648505b906345685c9c742b27](https://www.gaiagps.com/map/?loc=13.0/-77.3245/38.8892&pubLink=wel1FFO56RLd24GpVzMO2h0L&trackId=ec62340648505b906345685c9c742b27) **Terrain:** Some paved, mostly dirt trail, can be muddy after rain.

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 6.5 mile hike with 1000’ elevation gain to Harpers Ferry, West Virginia and is perfect for those that want to experience Maryland Heights without having to do a long hike. We will begin at the Harpers Ferry Train Station parking lot. We will hike the AT and then along the Shenandoah River and then at Appalachian Trail across the Potomac River on the footbridge. Taking a left we go briefly along the C&O Canal before taking the ***steep*** trails up to Maryland Heights for lunch. We hike at a pace of 2.0-2.5 mph when moving. [Rating: C](https://nvhc.com/hikeinfo/ratings/) (Upper level C hike, almost a B) Leader: Ed Brimberg 703-944-9920 (C) Park Entry Fee: $20 or free with National Park pass. Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) Carpools: Arrive at the Dulles Town Center Park and Ride at 7:45am, carpools leav at 8:00am GPS Coordinates: 39.034079, -77.430102, [https://goo.gl/maps/Drvzn7wmu76vnmgR6](https://goo.gl/maps/Drvzn7wmu76vnmgR6) . 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. A national park pass (leave on car dashboard) or $20 payment upon arrival using a **smartphone and a credit or debit card** via a QR code system. 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. AllTrails Map: [https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-4165db0?u=i&sh=7cs7ov](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-4165db0?u=i&sh=7cs7ov) ***You must be experienced in hikes of this distance and elevation gain.***

We will hike at Sky Meadows State Park, 5.2 miles with an elevation gain of 1000’. The pace for this hike is great for beginners and families, 1.4-1.9 mph, and slower if 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 additional traction, such as yaks or micro spikes, if you use them. 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:** * If you were on this hike in January, you are welcome to come and be a sweep. Just message me through MeetUp or text. * 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!

Join me on this moderate to moderately strenuous hike that ventures into the G.R. Thompson Wildlife Management Area (WMA) in Linden, VA. We will hike on the Appalachian Trail and turn around after a break at the Manassas Gap Shelter. With a steady climb at the beginning of the hike, we'll get a good workout with over 1,000 feet of elevation gain in the first two miles. No WMA access permit is needed because we don't leave the AT. We typically hike about 2 mph. However, we leave no one behind and will move at a pace that is comfortable for all. NOTE: I will be carrying a bag to gather any litter near the shelter and its access trail, which I maintain. Join me if you wish. If there is hiker interest, I can demonstate how to hang a food bag on the shelter’s bear pole and/or answer questions about trail maintenance. **Wear BLAZE ORANGE for hunting season.** **Hike Route:** https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/manassas-gap **Group Size:** 20 hikers **Time to Meet:** Please meet 15-20 minutes before the hike start for introductions and liability waiver sign in. If you can't make the hike, please edit your RSVP by 6 pm the night before to open a spot for anotherr hiker. **Meeting Location/Parking:** The AT trailhead and parking area is located on VA725/Tucker Lane in Linden, VA. GPS: 38.91146, -78.05289 **Facilities:** No restroom is available at the trailhead; however, the Manassas Gap Shelter has an outdoor privy. **Admission:** Free **Contact Information**: Please use the comments feature for comments or questions. The hike leader is Lisa Peterson. **Cancellation**: If the hike needs to be cancelled, hikers will be notified through comments on this posting. Please check Meetup for updates before leaving home. **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 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. **History of Manassas Gap Shelter:** Constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps around 1933, just north of Linden, Virginia. Like many shelters along the Trail, the Manassas Gap Shelter resided on private land for many decades. Built from chestnut logs, the shelter is a simple lean-to with three walls. Until the 1980s, there were also bunks across the back of the structure, but these were removed in the 1980s during a restoration of the shelter brought on by a severe infestation of mice and field rats. A spring is just downslope from the shelter.

During his second trip of the year, Juanatán will take you to Maryland Heights, but during the winter season. This journey of 8.6 miles through Harpers Ferry National Park will allow you to experience this famous trail and overlook in a different light. We will meet at the Vienna South Metro Station at 8:00 AM and carpool to the trailhead. Drive time is about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Please post a comment if you are willing to drive. Carpooling saves the environment and makes friends! ## **Trail Facts** * **Difficulty Level:** Strenuous * **Length:** 8.6 Miles * **Duration:** 6-6.5 hrs (Including our meal on the way back.) * **Elevation Gain:** 1,762 Feet * **Permits:** Have a National Park Pass or pay the $20 entrance fee. * **Parking:** Vienna South Metro Station (Search for ¨NOVA Trailblazers Carpooling Location¨ on Google Maps.) (Parking is free on weekends.) * **Dogs:** Not allowed. (The restaurant stop is built into the hike.) * **Trailhead Coordinates:** 39.31617004156396, -77.75620539129638 * **AllTrails Map**: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-011e405?u=i&sh=kucj8c **Trail Details:** After reaching the trailhead we will follow a trail down to Lower Town Harpers Ferry, passing some historial structures along our way. After passing through town we will go over a bridge, spend some time on the towpath, and then begin the steep ascent to Maryland Heights. After admiring the wintry view we will mostly come back the way we came, making a small diversion to grab a bite to eat at The Rabbit Hole before walking back to the Visitor Center parking lot. Since this hike is scheduled for February, it will likely be cold, so please wear layers and bring adequate fuel and hydration. In addition, the trails could be slippery, so the use of traction devices (microspikes, crampons, or similar) is **REQUIRED** if the expected trail conditions warrant it. If everyone is tired after the hike there is the option to take the shuttle back to the Visitor Center. The last shuttle for the day will leave at 5:30 PM. **Itinerary:** 8:00 AM: Meet at the Vienna South Metro Station. 8:15 AM: Depart for the trailhead. 9:30 AM: Arrive and begin hike. 1:30 PM: Arrive at The Rabbit Hole. 3:00 PM: Finish walking back to the trailhead. 4:00 PM: Reach the trailhead and drive home. 5:30 PM: Arrive at the Vienna South Metro Station. *(Setting the end time to 6:00 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://mountainmamacabins.com/blog/harpers-ferry-winter/)**

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 enjoyable hike with shaded trails and a sandy beach to take our break on. The hike is \~7,3 miles with \~800 feet of elevation gain in Seneca Regional Park. We'll start by hiking through a beautiful full growth hardwood forest and will then connect to the Potomac Heritage Trail. We'll take our break on a sandy beach. Thanks to Bob G for the photo. We hike at a pace of 2.3 to 2.5 mph while moving. *You must have experience with hikes of this length and elevation gain.* Dogs are permitted 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.gaiagps.com/map/?loc=15.0/-77.3190/39.0474&pubLink=obOQ48o079O4P48KYoJBIMa9&trackId=b81b5829-efdf-4bad-bb66-9e9de4a74efd

*Please join the waitlist if the event is full! Folks will be added manually from the waitlist.* Join us for a pleasant and relatively gentle hike on the Appalachian Trail in Virginia. The highlight of this hike is the David Lesser Shelter, which features a swing, large seating and picnic areas and other minor attractions. The trail has only a moderate amount of elevation. However, we consider this hike moderately challenging due to its length. We’ll move at a steady 2-3 mph pace with a break at the aforementioned Lesser Shelter, which is also our turn-around point. We'll take other quick breaks on the trail as needed. Please carry a minimum of 1 to 1.5L of water with you. Meet time & location: We'll meet at 8:15 am at the East Falls Church (EFC) metro station to consolidate into as few cars as possible given the limited parking at the trailhead. The trailhead is about an hour from EFC. Route: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/west-virginia/appalachian-trail-keys-gap-to-david-lesser-memorial-shelter Brewery (also has food): https://harvestgap.com/ CARPOOLING: We encourage those with cars 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. By signing up for this event, you acknowledge and agree that Late Morning Hikers, its volunteer organizers, and drivers who volunteer to carpool are not responsible or liable for accidents, injuries, damage, or losses that may occur while traveling to or from the hike. Late Morning Hikers does not condone or encourage impaired driving. Drivers are expected to follow applicable laws and make responsible transportation choices. 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))

Hike begins 10 am (eastern) Metup is being glitchy. This 4.9 lollipop loop hike is in the George Washington National Forest. It starts from the Signal Knob parking area off Fort Valley Road near Front Royal, VA. We'll break mid-hike for snack/lunch. Elevation gain is about 900 feet. There are a few intermittent stream crossings depending on previous precipitation. Always good to be prepared for the possibility of wet feet. The trail is rocky in parts. Evergreen mountain laurel lines sections of this pretty trail. We typically hike about 2 mph. However, we leave no one behind and will move at a pace that is comfortable for all. **Hike Route:** https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/tuscarora-bear-wallow-gwnf-abdeb6f **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 by 6 pm the night before to open a spot for another hiker. **Meeting Location/Parking:** We will meet at the Signal Knob parking lot, 11621 Fort Valley Rd, Fort Valley, VA 22652 **Facilities:** No restroom is available at the trailhead. **Admission:** Free **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 the evening before the hike. **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.