Hiking

**Wind down and let go!** Join us for a rejuvenating **FREE** Moonlight Stretch and Relaxing Yoga session at the peaceful **Eternal Wellness Yoga Studio**. This is your perfect opportunity to **transform** the end of your day from stressed and busy to calm, relaxed, and restored. Book your session now: [WhatsApp Us](https://wa.me/971543837625) *Note: MONDAY WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY \- ONLY LADIES \| TUESDAY THURSDAY & SATURDAY \- MEN ALSO WELCOME* **[1st Session will be FREE]**

This is an event for deep thinkers who enjoy deep discussions. No prior knowledge of philosophy is required. In the first segment of this event, we shall have a group discussion on randomly selected topics. In the second segment of the event, we shall discuss a short philosophical article after reading it. Please note that this event has a fee of AED 30.

Looking to enhance your badminton skills? Join our ladies-only coaching sessions for ages 14 and up! Whether you're a beginner or more experienced, all skill levels are welcome. Cost: 150 AED for 4 sessions. Don’t miss this opportunity to improve your game and meet fellow badminton enthusiasts follows us @Nisaafitness Contact Salma 0568184119

**REGISTRATION THROUGH WHATSAPP: 0522955859** Looking to kick a ball around and have fun? Join us for a friendly game of football! Whether you're a seasoned player or just getting started, all skill levels are welcome. This event is perfect for players who want to improve their fitness while enjoying a social game of football in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. We cater to all types of players, from experienced footballers to beginners who want to learn and have fun. Our group is all about providing a positive and inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. Join us on the pitch and let's have some fun together! As always, we will be playing outdoors, so please remember to bring appropriate footwear, comfortable athletic clothing, and water to stay hydrated. Don't miss out on a great opportunity to meet new people, get in some exercise, and indulge your love for the beautiful game. See you on the field!

The Gathering Hub at Eternal Wellness Yoga Studio is a welcoming community space offering coffee mornings, meetups, business gatherings, yoga sessions, healing sessions, and group activities. A place to connect, collaborate, relax, and grow in a positive and supportive environment.”**

Try out this stunning fusion style of smooth sensual moves and funky transitions in an easy-to-follow dance to classic & modern tunes. Kizomba is one of the most popular genres of dance and music originating from Angola, and reshaped in Portugal. It is a derivative of semba, with a mix of Kilapanda and Angolan Merengue. New styles derived from the traditional kizomba were developed in Europe such as urban Kiz and Tarraxinha. Danced to sensual music, happy folklore or electronic trance and fuelled by passion; kizomba is one of the most versatile genres that will help you express your deepest emotions! AED 99 /1 class AED 599 /8 classes (monthly package!) AED 899 /16 classes (monthly package!) Book your spot NOW! 8 classes https://moovnation.zbni.co/u/pabEn 16 classes https://moovnation.zbni.co/u/w7hbw For enquiries call/text 055 803 4003

Basketball game for all levels with both male and female players ⛹️‍♂️⛹️‍♀️ **Whatsapp group link** : https://chat.whatsapp.com/FPnbEZYMHCYCyo1v0yfV1A **Join our WhatsApp group for more information **

**When**: Sat 16 May 2026 05:45 AM to 10:15 AM **Difficulty:** Beginners Plus Suitable for: Families & ages 15+ **Distance:** 8 kms **Elevation gain:** 280 m **Duration:** 4-5 Hours **Plan**: · Leave Dubai early morning and reach the meeting point. · Park the cars at the base of mountain and start the hike · Reach the mountain top, have a short relaxing break, and then start the return hike. · Hikers return back to the cars by about 10.15 AM and drive back home. **Preparation for Hike** * 🧢 **Layers & Sun Protection** — Mornings are cool but warm up quickly. Wear full sleeves and bring a hat, cap, or scarf. * 💧 **Hydration** — Carry 3–4 litres of water plus energy drinks or juice to replenish lost salts. * 👟 **Footwear** — Sturdy hiking boots are essential. The terrain is rocky. * 🍎 **Snacks** — Pack fruits, dry fruits, or energy snacks to keep you fuelled. * 🩹 **First Aid Kit** — A basic kit is a must. **Transportation** * **🚗 Any car can reach the hike start point — self-drive recommended.** 1. 🙋**No car? Let the organizers know — We might be able to help you find a seat with someone else.** **Inclusions** * **✅ Lead guide, directions & support throughout the event including the hike.** **Exclusions** * **❌ Food & drinks — Self-catering event, bring your own.** * **❌ Gear & equipment — Bring your own.** **Disclaimer**: Standard AE disclaimer and terms of membership apply. Neither Adventure Emarat/Adventure Eagles nor any of its event leaders/members take any responsibility or indemnify the participants against any injury, loss or damage suffered by any participant during the event. Therefore, please assess the fitness & capability of yourself, your team & your vehicle before you join any AE event. Please understand and remember that YOU are the best person to safeguard your well-being and safety. Hence YOU have to take full responsibility for the same. Team Adventure Eagles

**⸻** **🌊 BLUE TRIBE UAE 🌊** **🏝️ SNOOPY ISLAND SNORKELING DAY TRIP** **📍 Snoopy Island** **⸻** **🗓️ Full Day Experience** **⏰ Start: 8:00 AM** **🌅 End: Sunset** **⸻** **✨ WHAT TO EXPECT** **Join us for a full day of snorkeling, relaxation, and ocean adventure around Snoopy Island. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, this trip is designed for everyone.** **⸻** **📅 PROGRAM SCHEDULE** **🔹 8:00 AM – Arrival & Setup** **Welcome, registration & shaded area allocation** **🔹 8:30 AM – Snorkeling Training Session 🤿** **Basic skills, safety briefing & equipment use** **🔹 9:30 AM – Guided Snorkeling Tour 🐠** **Explore the reefs around Snoopy Island with our guides** **🔹 12:30 PM – Break & Relaxation 🌴** **Refreshments, water & free time under shaded area** **🔹 2:30 PM – Open Snorkeling Session 🌊** **Enjoy the sea at your own pace with supervision** **🔹 4:30 PM – Optional Guided Swim / Exploration 🐢** **Second guided session around the island** **🔹 Sunset – Wrap Up 🌅** **Pack up and departure** **⸻** **💰 PRICE: 150 AED per person** **⸻** **✅ INCLUDED** **✔️ Snorkeling training session** **✔️ Snorkeling kit (mask, snorkel, fins)** **✔️ Guided tour around the island** **✔️ Water & refreshments** **✔️ Safety equipment** **✔️ Shaded area access** **⸻** **🎒 PLEASE BRING** **▫️ Snacks & lunch** **▫️ Sunscreen** **▫️ Towels** **▫️ Beach chairs / mats** **⸻** **⚠️ NOTES** * **Suitable for beginners and families** * **Bring your own snorkeling gear if preferred** * **Follow all safety instructions from guides** * **Contact Kalisa @0562377332**

**Every Saturday 8:00AM-6:00 PM** **🌊 BLUE TRIBE UAE 🌊** **🏝️ SNOOPY ISLAND SNORKELING DAY TRIP** **📍 Snoopy Island** **⸻** **🗓️ Full Day Experience** **⏰ Start: 8:00 AM** **🌅 End: Sunset** **⸻** **✨ WHAT TO EXPECT** **Join us for a full day of snorkeling, relaxation, and ocean adventure around Snoopy Island. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, this trip is designed for everyone.** **⸻** **📅 PROGRAM SCHEDULE** **🔹 8:00 AM – Arrival & Setup** **Welcome, registration & shaded area allocation** **🔹 8:30 AM – Snorkeling Training Session 🤿** **Basic skills, safety briefing & equipment use** **🔹 9:30 AM – Guided Snorkeling Tour 🐠** **Explore the reefs around Snoopy Island with our guides** **🔹 12:30 PM – Break & Relaxation 🌴** **Refreshments, water & free time under shaded area** **🔹 2:30 PM – Open Snorkeling Session 🌊** **Enjoy the sea at your own pace with supervision** **🔹 4:30 PM – Optional Guided Swim / Exploration 🐢** **Second guided session around the island** **🔹 Sunset – Wrap Up 🌅** **Pack up and departure** **⸻** **💰 PRICE: 150 AED per person** **⸻** **✅ INCLUDED** **✔️ Snorkeling training session** **✔️ Snorkeling kit (mask, snorkel, fins)** **✔️ Guided tour around the island** **✔️ Water & refreshments** **✔️ Safety equipment** **✔️ Shaded area access** **⸻** **🎒 PLEASE BRING** **▫️ Snacks & lunch** **▫️ Sunscreen** **▫️ Towels** **▫️ Beach chairs / mats** **⸻** **⚠️ NOTES** * **Suitable for beginners and families** * **Bring your own snorkeling gear if preferred** * **Follow all safety instructions from guides** * **Contact Kalisa @0562377332**

In a Central Asian intersection of Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Afghanistan, China, and Pakistan across the Wakhan Corridor lays the Republic of Tajikistan, **a small enclave country of Persian-speaking, cyrillic writing Tajik peoples** once part of the Samanid Empire and most known today for its rugged snow-capped peaks, world-class trekking and climbing across the Fann Mountains, a warm and inviting culture, and what is surely one of the world’s **most picturesque turquoise lakes, Iskandarkul!** The capital city of Dushanbe, along the Varzob River in the Gissar Valley, was once the site of several settlements which were rebuilt during the Soviet Era and has become the metropolis it is today, with Barakat covered-market as one of it’s most iconic attractions. With wide tree-lined avenues, museums and monuments around every corner, and cafes and tea-houses to satisfy every craving for Tajik sweets. **One cannot venture across Tajikistan without paying a visit to Iskandarkul.** The legendary Lake of Alexander the Great, at nearly 2200 MASL, is iconic in its turquoise still reflections of the surrounding mountains and peaks. The locals will have a few stories to tell about how the lake formed and whether Alexander’s favourite horse Bucephalus still haunts the icy waters, but you’ll have a chance to see and swim this pristine jewel, trek around the “Fann Niagara”, and explore a few sites of scientific expeditions! **Let’s go!!** **Day 0 // Dushanbe Departure** Meeting at Dubai Airport Terminal 2 at 21:00 for a direct flight to Dushanbe at 22:55. **Day 1 // Yaghnob Valley & Iskandarkul Lake** After early morning arrival and immigration formalities, we’ll transfer to hotel for a very quick rest and breakfast before we hit the road to Varzob through the Anzob Pass and take in our first views of the Fann Mountains along the way. We’ll continue to Yaghnob Valley for a village visit and local lunch before we reach Iskandarkul Lake where we’ll check-in and take a quick trek to waterfall and first pristine views of the lake! Return to hotel for dinner and rest. **Day 2 // Iskandarkul & Dushanbe** We’ll rise with the sun for a boat trip around the lake before a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before we start our return journey back to Dushanbe. We’ll have a lunch in town before sightseeing few highlights of Somoni Statue, Navruzhoh Palace, and the Mehrigon Market. We’ll have a quick hotel check-in before we head out to enjoy some live music at local pub for dinner. Airport transfer for return flight home. Back in DXB at 07:25 AM. **Activities:** Short trekking, boating, optional swimming, cultural immersion. **Duration:** Weekend. **Accommodation & meals:** hotels and lake bungalows - double sharing. Meals in guesthouses included, restaurant meals excluded. Bring your fav snacks. **Cost: AED 4720 all incl. flight** **until MAY 10th.** Past this date please inquire about cost and availability. **Visa:** Visa free or e-visa. [Details here.](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Tajikistan) **Specifically excluded:** visas, insurance. Visa support for all passports available. See yah at the Lake x Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 050 4848238 ](https://wa.me/971504848238)// [info@trekkup.com](http://info@trekkup.com/) [Find all trekkups at linktr.ee/trekkup](https://linktr.ee/trekkup)

**Day 1: Al Quaa aka the “Milky Way spot” - Stargazing, BBQ, games, telescope** **2:45 pm:** Meeting time for the ones who booked our transport at our Dubai pickup point. **4:15 pm:** Meeting time for the ones who booked our transport at our Abu Dhabi pickup point. **6:00 pm:** Meeting time for the ones joining us with their own transport in Al Quaa meeting point. Note: Timings might shift a little with sunrise and sunset. Don't worry we'll share the exact plan with you in a Whatsapp group before the trip. *(1 Day no camping)* A beautiful 2-3 hours road trip to Al Quaa, a secluded Abu Dhabi spot that offers out-of-this-world views of the Milky way. We will then enjoy stargazing at the darkest place in the UAE with stellar views of the galaxy, constellations, planets and shooting starts. We will then have the usual best bbq in town, drinks, card games, music, have some melting marshmallows on camp fire and camp under the clear skies full of stars. **Price without transport**: 450ed **Price with transport**: 650aed **Including:** * Meals: * The famous best BBQ in town for dinner (mixed grill with meat and chicken, vegan burger, hummus, moutabbal, tabbouleh salad, fattoush salad, bread, and snacks) * Beverages (Soft drinks, tea, coffee, water) * Camp equipment: chairs, lights * Portable Toilet & Privacy Tent Setup * Campfire games * Transportation from regular vehicles to the inside of the desert via dunes off-roading with 4x4 vehicles * A guided stargazing session with access to a Celestron 12096 NexStar Evolution 8 HD telescope for observing planets and celestial objects. * Adventure leaders - fun guides who know the ins and outs of Al Quaa * Great people and great fun! **Excluding:** * Transportation from Arabian Wanderers' meeting point in Dubai to Abu Dhabi and back (Available optionally for AED 200 if you choose the option with transport) Notes: * **Important note**: Your booking will only be confirmed once you've completed the process on the following link: [https://www.arabianwanderers.com/tour/al-quaa-milky-way-spot-stargazing-in-the-darkest-spot-in-uae.](https://www.arabianwanderers.com/tour/al-quaa-milky-way-spot-stargazing-in-the-darkest-spot-in-uae) RSVP on Meetup serves as an expression of intent to attend the event and does not guarantee your place, as spots are limited and tend to fill up rapidly. * **Group size:** Small group experience - Avg. 12, Max 25. * **If booking our transport**: * Dubai at 2:45pm: [Artisan Bakers - https://maps.app.goo.gl/yH6QEtZpH7UQceCq5](https://maps.app.goo.gl/yH6QEtZpH7UQceCq5) in Al Barsha. RTA parking is available if you want to come with your car. * Abu Dhabi at 4:15pm: [ADNOC Service Station | Shawamekh-(South West) (755) - https://maps.app.goo.gl/adkwrB7c98omTcWS9](https://maps.app.goo.gl/adkwrB7c98omTcWS9). There is no parking at this petrol station, so please meet us in a taxi. * **If not**: [Arabian Wanderers – Al Quaa Stargazing & Camping - https://maps.app.goo.gl/z6zSwEwgfQRzyccD6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/z6zSwEwgfQRzyccD6) at 6:00pm. Any car can reach the meeting point in Al Quaa where you can leave your car by the side of the road free of charge. There is no need for a 4x4 vehicle as you will join one of our 4x4 vehicles to go to the camp. * **Own transport:** Any car can reach the meeting point in Al Quaa where you can leave your car by the side of the road free of charge. There is no need for a 4x4 vehicle as you will join one of our 4x4 vehicles to go to the camp. * **Nature calls:** Restroom Facilities a portable toilet with a privacy tent will be available. * **Solo & women friendly:** Solo and female travelers are more than welcome; 70% of our participants are usually solo adventurers and women. * **Pet-friendly:** You're welcome to bring your pet on the trip, provided everyone on the tour is comfortable with it. You can confirm this via the WhatsApp group created for all booked participants. * **Note:** Visibility may be affected by weather conditions (e.g., clouds, rain). Event cancellation will only occur in the case of severe weather (heavy rain or very strong winds), not due to clouds or light rain. * **Mobile Coverage:** e& has inconsistent internet and phone coverage. du has inconsistent phone coverage and no internet coverage. * **Important Note:** Bookings cannot be rescheduled within 14 days of the trip. * **Health and travel insurance**: It is mandatory to have a health and travel insurance in the country where this experience is happening. If you don't have insurance or your current insurance doesn't provide coverage, you can obtain one [here](https://explore.safetywing.com/nomad-insurance-complete?referenceID=26286700&utm_source=26286700&utm_medium=Ambassador) ! * **Disclaimer:** Even though Al Quaa is the best place in the UAE for stargazing, don't expect it to look like the photos online. While you can see more stars than in most other locations and will definitely be amazed, the photos you see online are taken with professional cameras or high-quality phones that capture low light better than the naked eye. * **Tipping Information:** If you'd like to show your appreciation to your guide, please bring cash in AED for tipping. * **Instagram:** Follow us on Instagram for our latest adventures: [arabian.wanderers](https://www.instagram.com/arabian.wanderers/) For any questions that are not on the booking link, you can WhatsApp us by clicking on this link [https://wa.me/message/V53PMRXR5SCIH1](https://wa.me/message/V53PMRXR5SCIH1) or call us on: [+971522067219](http://+971522067219/)

**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.

**Important** \- I've pre\-purchased day\-use tickets for this hike\. Please only sign up if you are 100% committed Old Rag is one of my favorite hikes on the east coast. The way up is nothing short of incredible - you will experience switchbacks, scrambles, false summits, interesting trail navigation, and absolutely amazing views. This is *the* iconic day hike in Shenandoah. Don't miss it. Please make sure to get a day-use ticket for $2 using the link below. I plan to stop for food/drinks at Old Bust Head Brewing Co on the way back (7134 Farm Station Rd, New Baltimore, VA 20187). We will meet at Vienna Metro at 9AM and carpool to the trailhead. Drive time is about 1 hour and 45 mins - Please post a comment below if you are willing to drive. Carpooling saves the environment and makes friends. ## **Trail Facts** * **Difficulty Level: Strenuous** * **Length:** 9.4 Miles * **Duration:** 5-6 hrs * **Elevation Gain:** 2,604 Feet * **Permits:** Pre-purchased (you can venmo me $2) * **Parking:** Vienna Metro Station * **Dogs:** Not Allowed * **Trailhead Coordinates:** 38.571008, -78.293499 * **AllTrails Map**: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/old-rag-mountain-loop-trail?u=i&sh=rak641 **Trail Details:** This hike, although challenging, is one of the most popular and spectacular hikes in Shenandoah National Park. It has been referred to as an “unforgettable” hike by many. Your climb to the peak includes many rocky switchbacks, various false peaks, and several scrambles. The descent, which will be slightly longer than your ascent, is a much more gradual grade that ends with an easy walk down a fire road. Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on this trail. This is a challenging hike that will take most of the day. It is highly recommended that you bring plenty of water as well as snacks and electrolytes (i.e. Gatorade). Hiking Old Rag is an adventure that should be on every Virginia hiker’s bucket list. **DAY USE TICKETS:** There were limited tickets left, so I've pre-purchased 14 day use tickets. You can give me $2 in cash or via Venmo. **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!

**IMPORTANT -** If you are not 100% committed please do ***not RSVP.*** No shows will be de-propritized for future events. Lets do a 2-night backpacking trip over Memorial Day weekend! The Mount Rogers/Grayson Highlands loop hike is an iconic section of the Appalachian Trail, located in the southwestern hills of Virginia within the Jefferson National Forest. This region is best known for its vast mountain views and alpine peaks with **wild ponies** roaming about. This area is also home to Virginia's highest point, Mount Rogers, sitting at 5,729'. This is a premier east-coast backpacking destination, so don't miss this one. ## **Trail Facts** * **Difficulty Level:** Moderate * **Length:** 21.4 Miles * **Duration:** 3 Days * **Elevation Gain:** 3,898 Feet * **Bear Canisters:** Not Required * **Permits:** None * **Dogs**: Allowed * **Meetup/Carpool:** Vienna Metro South * **Trailhead Parking:** 36.6893579, -81.5320954 * **AllTrails Map**: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/mount-rogers-and-appalachian-trail-loop-958adb5?u=i&sh=rak641 **Trail Details:** We will meet at The Vienna Metro station on Saturday morning at 8am and drive to the Mt Rogers Trailhead (off Rt 603). This parking lot is **NOT** the paid lot near Masie Gap, and so can fill up. I'd like to try to get there as early as possible. The drive is about 5 hours. I will drive and am happy to have others carpool with me - but please note, I will have my small black labrador in the back seat. **Day 1** After we park, we will hike about 7 miles to our campsite, diverting once to summit Mt Rogers. There arent any views here, but it's worth the .3 miles to say you've been to the highest point in VA! We will camp on the first night at the scenic tent sites near the Thomas Knob Shelter on the AT. There is water at this site and we may see wild ponies if we're lucky. **Day 2** The second day is about 10.7 miles, which includes spectacular views, unique rock formations and wide open grassy meadows. We will camp near the Old Orchard Shelter. There is a spring with water at this site as well. **Day 3** The third day will be a short 3.5 mile hike from camp back to the cars. Getting to the cars early will mean that we should get back to DC around 4-5pm. On the drive home, I plan to stop at Martin's in downtown Roanoke (413 1st St SW, Roanoke, VA 24011). **Essential Items**: * Tent * Sleeping pad​ * Sleeping bag suitable for expected temperatures​ * Backpack (appropriate for overnight backpacking)​ * Backpacking stove with fuel​ * Pot, cup, dish, and utensils​ * Dehydrated meals​ and snacks * Water bottles or hydration system (capacity for at least 2 liters)​ * Water filter or purification tablets​ * Headlamp with extra batteries​ * Rain gear * Dry bags or pack cover​ * Warm clothing layers (non-cotton) * Trowel for and toiletries for Leave-No-Trace compliance **Optional Items**: * Personal first aid kit​ * Map and compass or GPS device * Power bank or external battery * Trekking poles​ * Camp shoes * Electrolyte supplements​ * Alcohol​ * Books, games, or other enterainment * Gaiters​ * Sunscreen, lip balm, insect repellent​​ **CARPOOL:** Don't forget if you want a ride or are willing to offer a ride – be a friend to the environment, save money, and make friends. **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!

Let's go for a hike along the C&O Canal Trail! It's been a while since our last hiking event, so this is a great way to get outside and enjoy the spring scenery. Although certain sections of the C&O Canal Trail present moderate to challenging terrain, this event will primarily utilize the more accessible, easier paths. Nevertheless, we are open to adjusting the route based on the group's preference for a more adventurous experience, including steeper inclines or longer distances. It's recommended to bring hiking boots, a water bottle, and snacks like trail mix or granola bars to keep your energy up. The entrance fee is $10-20, so it is recommended that you carpool if needed. We will rendezvous at Vienna Metro Station Parking Lot at 9:30 AM to discuss the carpooling situation before heading over. \*If the weather calls for rain that day, we will postpone it to a later date.