Hiking

**Blockhouse: A Moderate 8-Mile Hike Near Potomac, MD** Set within the stunning Blockhouse Point Conservation Park—consistently ranked among the best natural areas in the Montgomery County Park system—this hike offers a rich blend of biodiversity and quiet history. As you hike, you’ll trek through mature upland and floodplain forests, passing tranquil streams and unique river-rock outcrops. The area is a sanctuary for diverse wildlife and serves as a rare botanical haven, home to at least nine species of threatened or endangered plants. While the park’s rugged terrain once served as a strategic wartime transportation route for supplies, it remains a peaceful retreat today. The park’s name and historical significance are rooted in the American Civil War, specifically the year 1862. Following the Battle of Antietam, the Union Army constructed a series of blockhouses—sturdy timber fortifications—along the bluffs to defend the vital Potomac River crossings and the C&O Canal from Confederate raids. These outposts were manned by the 19th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, who kept a watchful eye on the supply lines into Washington, D.C. While the site was high-stakes and strategically vital, it is a rare historical gem because it never saw an actual skirmish; the soldiers spent their time on picket duty and reconnaissance rather than combat. Today, eagle-eyed hikers can still find the subtle earthen mounds and remnants of the foundations where these defensive structures once stood, serving as silent monuments to the soldiers who guarded the river. The hike begins in the deep woodlands before descending toward the C&O Canal Towpath. As you walk along the water’s edge, keep an eye out for sunbathing turtles and elegant Blue Herons while soaking in sweeping views of the Potomac River. The route also offers a glimpse into the region’s industrial past as you pass by the historic Violet’s and Pennyfield Locks. To cap off the journey, the trail climbs back into the shaded forest, culminating in a series of magnificent vistas. Be sure to pack a lunch or a snack to enjoy at the Blockhouse Overlook, where you can relax and take in one of the most grand perspectives of the river valley below. **Time to Meet**: Please meet at 9:45 for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 10:00 **Directions to Trailhead**: The GPS Coordinates are 39.240879,-76.749977 The Street address to the park is 12420 Pennyfield Lock Road Tobytown, MD 20854. Pennyfield Lock Road is about 5.5 northwest of Potomac Village on River Road. Turn left onto Pennyfield Lock Road and take it to the very end. We will meet by the Porta-Johns. **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: 8 miles Elevation Gain: 600 feet Pace: 2.0 to 2.5 miles per hour **Facilities**: Portable bathrooms at 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/690036e3ff6946c13bced978e7393968725ea6a1ed2958c0052a973f390e4af3) **Notes**: -Please note, you must sign up at by 8:00 PM the day before the hike. -PLEASE DO NOT SHOW UP UNLESS YOU ARE ON THE "GOING" LIST. -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).

## Details Hello everyone! We climb at Crystal City Movement every Wednesday. Please read rest of the description carefully. We mostly do tope rope climbing but we can arrange bouldering sessions as well. If you prefer lead climbing please post on the comments to find your belay partner. FYI we have a group of 5-7 regulars that don’t rsvp anymore, so please still come even if it says no-ones attending. \#\# Requirements * If you are not a Movement member, you'll get a daily pass. If you don't have the equipments you can rent them in the gym. * Please sign the waiver through: [https://movementgyms.com/waiver/](https://movementgyms.com/waiver/) All skill levels are welcome! If you are totally new to climbing and want to do top rope, then you have to have a belay certificate. In order to do that; * You can check Movement gym Intro to Rope Climbing class : [https://movementgyms.com/crystal-city/climbing/classes/](https://movementgyms.com/crystal-city/climbing/classes/) * After the course, you should do the 'Belay Check' which can be done as soon as 24 hours after you take the class. The test takes around 15 mins so it can be done before the climbing session. Before your first visit you may want to check the related webpage: [https://movementgyms.com/first-visit/](https://movementgyms.com/first-visit/) \#\# Where to meet To find us go down the stairs in front of the front desk. We will meet around the benches next to climbing walls.

Climbers of all skill levels are welcome to Join "Sends with Friends" rock climbing community for an indoor rock climbing (top rope or lead) event at [Movement Rockville gym](https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZZD5jntgU4Y6fY9A9)! **$15 Day-Pass for non-movement climbers!** Here's what you need: 1. Signed [waiver](https://movementgyms.com/waiver/): https://movementgyms.com/waiver/ 2. Belay check, which can be done the same day. See [Your First Visit](https://movementgyms.com/first-visit/) page for more info: https://movementgyms.com/first-visit/ If this is your first time signing the waiver with Movement gyms, **your first visit will be free of charge**, all climbing gears included. To find us, go past the front desk and turn left. We'll gather by the benches next to the fitness room entrance. If you are completely new to climbing, you are welcome to come and try it with us after you take the Introduction to Rope Climbing Course which will be free of charge for you if you let me know. This meetup is free and run by volunteer organizers, however, access to Movement gyms requires a membership or purchase of a day pass. This meetup is for belaytionship only, unwanted advances will not be tolerated. **Sends with Friends Rock Climbing Meetup Waiver and Release of Liability** **NOTICE:** By signing up for this event, you agree to the terms outlined below and acknowledge the inherent risks associated with rock climbing activities. Participation in any event organized by this Meetup group is contingent upon your agreement to this release form. **1\. Assumption of Risk:** I, the undersigned participant, acknowledge and fully understand that rock climbing is a high-risk activity. I am aware that participation involves risks including, but not limited to, physical injury, permanent disability, or death. These risks may arise from, but are not limited to, natural hazards, equipment failure, human error, and the actions or negligence of others. **2\. Release of Liability:** In consideration of being allowed to participate in any activity organized by this Meetup group, I hereby release and discharge the organizer(s), co-organizer(s), event leaders, and all other participants from any and all claims, demands, actions, or causes of action arising out of or connected to my participation, including claims arising from negligence or gross negligence. **3\. Personal Responsibility:** I acknowledge that I am solely responsible for my own safety during these events. I will use my own judgment in evaluating the risks involved and will take appropriate precautions, including but not limited to: * Wearing appropriate safety gear. * Using reliable climbing equipment. * Following established safety protocols. * Refraining from participating in activities beyond my skill level. **4\. Medical Fitness:** I affirm that I am in good health and physically capable of participating in rock climbing activities. I assume full responsibility for any medical conditions that may affect my ability to participate safely. **5\. Indemnity Agreement:** I agree to indemnify and hold harmless the organizer(s), co-organizer(s), event leaders, and other participants from any claims, damages, or expenses (including legal fees) arising out of or related to my actions or participation in these activities. **6\. Photo/Video Release \(Optional\):** By signing this waiver, I grant permission for any photographs or videos taken during the events to be used for promotional or group-related purposes. (Participants may opt out by notifying the organizer.) **7\. Agreement to Follow Rules:** I agree to abide by all rules, instructions, and guidance provided by the event organizers and leaders. Failure to comply may result in my removal from the group. **8\. Acknowledgment of Agreement:** By joining any event organized by this Meetup group, I acknowledge that I have read and understood this waiver and release form. I agree that my participation in any event constitutes my electronic or physical signature to this agreement.

For safety due to the width of the trails and darkness we will be limiting to 15 Members. The full moon in April 2025, also known as the "Pink Moon" or "Paschal Moon", 
The full moon always lies opposite the sun in the sky. Consequently, it is visible all night. All full moons rise along the eastern horizon close to the time of sunset. Likewise, all full moons set along the western horizon close to the time of sunrise. At full moon, the sun, Earth, and the moon align in space, with Earth in the middle. And, the moon’s day side – its fully lighted hemisphere – directly faces us. That is why the moon appears full.
 We schedule the moonwalk when the moon can be seen in the Early evening. So you can be home and be tucked into bed. Hike distance is 2-21/2 miles and 1-1/2 - 2 hours with time for a bite to eat afterwards. We can make arrangements for a light dinner and drinks after the hike at local restaurant. Flashlight or lighting is required. Wear appropriate hiking gear and clothing. Live when you’re alive To make a difference you have to be different

For the Wednesday run, let's meet at 1750 Crystal Dr (Entrance by Morton's Steakhouse) before walking over to the Crystal City Water Park and run on the Mt. Vernon Trail alongside the scenic Potomac River. LOCATION: Meet at 1750 Crystal Dr (Entrance by Morton's Steakhouse). Link to location on map: http://i.imgur.com/3yN0lwN.jpg NOTES: Photos taken during the event may end up on Instagram, Meetup, Strava and similar platforms. Let's meet at 6:50 PM, leaving by 7:00 PM. We will do 50 minutes, so 25 minutes out and 25 minutes back. You're welcome to do more if you'd like. Just before the run we decide whether we'll go NORTH (DC) or SOUTH (Old Town) on the trail. Once we're done, we meet back up at the Crystal City Water Park area. After the run please feel free to hangout and socialize with the group or join us at National Landing Water Park for a beverage and/or food. https://g.co/kgs/AErMQZ All paces are welcome! We run by time, not speed so bring a watch to monitor your time and turn around at the halfway time point. If you need to run/walk, that's ok! We average anywhere between 7-13 minute/per mile pace. First Time? Start out slow to find someone around your pace. The different paces tend to automatically gather, so you won't be alone! Metro: Crystal City on Blue/Yellow lines, 2 blocks from metro exit. Parking: There is plenty of paid parking options (parking garages, street parking, or parking lots) in the area on Crystal Drive or Long Bridge Park. Post-Run: A lot of times we have a little social outing after the run. You can bring a change of clothes if you'd like (though most people just go as is). We'll finish up the run, meet back at the Water Park, pick up our wallets and walk to wherever we decided to go for a beverage and/or food. If you have a suggestion for a place to check out, let us know!

HHH Spring Edition. Does disappearing into the wilderness with a group of strangers put you on edge? Then come to a casual happy hour and get to know us first. This is a great time to meet your fellow outdoor enthusiasts and get connected - without needing to gear up. This time, let's go to DC and check out The Crown & Crow (Logan Circle). 7pm. The Crown & Crow is a massive underground bar with a speakeasy feel. The only signage outside is a gold emblem of a crow with a crown on it's head. Once you see this, follow the stairs down to the bar. Please update your RSVP if your plans change so that we have an accurate headcount. Thanks!

UPDATE - changed from Sunday to Saturday due to weather. Please update RSVPs. 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 (with caution - the scramble is not recommended for dogs) * **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!

**Trail Map / VA Bus** *$36. Long hike: 12 mi., 900 ft. elevation gain. Moderate hike: 8 mi., 500 ft. elevation gain. Extra-long hike: 18½ mi., 3000 ft. elevation gain.* There are literally acres of Virginia Bluebells on the banks of Bull Run, the result of rich, seasonally flooded, sandy soil. If the season's timing cooperates, we will see vast stands of these flowers in full bloom. Trout lilies, beavers, heron, kingfishers and migratory warblers also vie for attention. Moderate hikers start at Hemlock Overlook and proceed north (upstream) on the Bull Run – Occoquan Trail to Bull Run Regional Park. Long hikers start hiking north from Bull Run Marina. Hikers who are up to the challenge have the option of starting at Fountainhead Regional Park to cover the full length of the trail. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- RESERVATIONS Capital Hiking Club is a non-profit group, and the public is invited on all trips. Reservations are accepted as late as Friday, but reserving before Wednesday night helps ensure your spot and prevent cancellation of the hike due to low sign-ups. RSVP through Meetup and pay through PayPal. Please be sure your RSVP gives your full name and phone number and where you'll be boarding the bus. We don't want to leave you behind! FIRST-TIME HIKERS If you're a first-time hiker with us, please notify the leaders in advance so they can make sure you have the info you need. Hikers must be able to keep at least a 2 mph pace. BUS STOPS: VIRGINIA ROUTING Please arrive 10 to 15 minutes before times listed below. All our bus stops are Metro accessible. If you're driving to meet the bus, we strongly advise using the Vienna bus stop, as parking is extremely limited at the others. Bus stops and times are as follows (click links for maps): * **[DC: Near 17th and K St. NW](https://bit.ly/17thandKnu)** downtown (east side of Farragut Square). Bus leaves at 8 a.m. SHARP, so it's essential to arrive well before 8. * **[VIENNA METRO: NORTH parking lot](http://bit.ly/vienna-bus)**, last bus shelter (Nutley St. Exit off Interstate 66 on North/Vienna side of I-66) at approximately 8:25 a.m. Note: There is a "south" parking lot where there are also bus shelters. If by 8:15, you're not with a group of hikers who say they're Capital Hiking Club, you're likely at the south lot. There's a walkway over I-66 to the north lot. LIABILITY By RSVP'ing for a CHC hike, you acknowledge and accept that hikers are responsible for their own safety and must assume risks and liability for all outings. CHC leaders, officers, and representatives shall not be liable for any injuries, loss or damage to persons or property, direct or consequential, arising out of any trips or club activities. Participants will be asked to sign a waiver the day of the hike. CANCELLATION POLICY To cancel and receive a full refund less a $5 processing fee, you must change your RSVP to "No" on Meetup **before 12PM the Thursday** before the hike. If you change your RSVP after 12PM the Thursday before the hike, no refunds will be issued. MORE DETAILS -- **[SEE THE FAQS ON OUR WEBSITE](https://www.capitalhikingclub.org/hikes-faqs)**

This is an 18- or 30-mile hike that is out-and-back, at your own pace, and mostly along the paved **Mount Vernon Trail** (MVT). Expect to pass through parks, Old Town Alexandria, wetlands, forest, and some snazzy neighborhoods, all while enjoying panoramic views of the Potomac River, the capital city, Woodrow Wilson Bridge, and National Harbor, Maryland. (**[Map](https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/planyourvisit/upload/Mt-Vernon-Trail-map-508-2021.pdf).**) We will start at Gravely Point, north of and adjacent to Reagan National Airport. You will hike north on the MVT to Theodore Roosevelt Island, loop around the island, return to the MVT, and hike south, past Gravely Point. You will then walk to a turn-around point -- Jones Point Park for the short hikers and just before George Washington’s Estate at Mount Vernon for the long hikers -- before you head back to the starting point. You leave whenever you finish and you may shorten either hike by turning around sooner. **WHEN & WHERE** We will meet at 8 AM in the main **[parking lot](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/''/@38.8652345,-77.0405958,17.04z/data=!4m9!4m8!1m0!1m5!1m1!1s0x89b7b73d94c67cf5:0x676f0d088c10a255!2m2!1d-77.0404351!2d38.8645457!3e0?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDMyNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D)** of Gravely Point. Note that cars can only access the parking lot from the northbound lanes of the George Washington Memorial Parkway. The closest metro stations are at Reagan National Airport (1.2 miles) and Crystal City (1.3 miles). We will meet in the green space left of the parking lot. **WHAT TO BRING** Bring food and drink (short hike, 2 qts; long hike, 3 qts). You may bring food for lunch or stop at nearby eateries off the trail. This hike occurs rain or shine, cold or warm, so dress appropriately. However, in case of hazardous weather, please check here for last-minute changes before leaving for the hike. **LEADERS** Mike Darzi (Mike.Darzi@Gmail.com) &
Dave Torraca (DTorraca@Gmail.com) **SIERRA CLUB**
 You may join the Sierra Club by clicking the "JOIN" button at the top of the Virginia Chapter’s **[homepage](https://www.sierraclub.org/virginia)**. Membership is not required for participation. **ONE DAY HIKE** Although open to all, this training hike is part of a series of Saturday training hikes leading up to the **[One Day Hike](https://www.meetup.com/sierrapotomac/events/312467688/)** (ODH)—100 or 50 km along the C&O Canal—on May 2, 2026. See SCPRO’s **[Meetup page](https://www.meetup.com/sierrapotomac/)** for other training hikes as they are posted. If you would like to support the ODH, see **[volunteering opportunities](https://www.meetup.com/sierrapotomac/events/312467618/)** and/or contact Mike Darzi (Mike.Darzi@Gmail.com) For official updates regarding training hikes, registration, and other information, join the ODH discussion group by sending a blank email to OneDayHike+Subscribe@Gmail.com.

(Trailhead hike) Explore one of the newest state parks in Virginia. The park is located in the picturesque "oxbow" area of the North Shenandoah River. Moderate hikers will cover Hikes include the Eagle's Edge Trail, River Bend Rise Trail, Massanutten Trail, Talus Trail, Reservoir Trail and Gakotta Trail, while long hikers will add a there-and-back on the Massanutten Trail. Est.: 11.5 miles, 2000' elevation, and 8.5 miles, 1500' elevation. Park map. Hike fee: $5. Trailhead: Seven Bends State Park, 2111 S. Hollingsworth Rd. Woodstock, VA, 10:00 AM Driving Directions From Vienna Metro Station to Seven Bends State Park, VA, Hollingsworth Road Entrance 1. Follow I-66 West for around 62 miles. 2. Take exit 1A to merge onto I-81 S toward Roanoke. Follow I-81 South for 17.4 miles. 3. Take exit 283 for VA-42 toward Woodstock. 4. Turn left to go East on VA-42/W Reservoir Rd. 5. Continue straight through the town of Woodstock. 6. In about a mile, turn right onto Hollingsworth Road. Drive across the one lane bridge and turn left to stay on Hollingsworth Road. 7. Continue Hollingsworth Road to Seven Bends State Park entrance. Without traffic, the trip is 1 hour, 20 minutes FIRST-TIME HIKERS If you're a first-time hiker with us, please notify the leaders in advance so they can make sure you have the info you need. Hikers must be able to keep a 2-mph pace. New hikers are required to first complete a moderate hike. **Liability Waiver:** Many of our hikes take place in remote wilderness areas where cell phone service is not available. Any person participating in any Club activity is responsible for their own safety, health and welfare, and must assume all risks and liabilities related to all Club activities. The Club, its hike leaders, hike sweeps, officers, and other representatives are not liable for any injuries, losses, or damage to persons, children, pets, and/or property, arising from any trips or activities of the Club. You are responsible for bringing enough water, food, and first aid supplies, including those for your personal medical conditions. CANCELLATION POLICY To cancel and receive a full bus hike refund, less a $5 processing fee, you must change your RSVP to "No" on Meetup **before NOON on the Friday** before the hike. If you change your RSVP after noon on the Friday before the hike, no refunds will be issued. Cancellations to Metro/carpool/trailhead hikes will not issue a financial refund, but hiker must change their Meetup RSVP to NO so that leaders do not wait for them at the trailhead. COVID PRECAUTIONS Anyone experiencing symptoms of upper respiratory illness should not attend the event. MORE DETAILS -- [SEE THE FAQS ON OUR WEBSITE](http://www.wanderbirds.org/faq.html)

Welcome to Pickup Sports (Adult League)! Join our community! To register for this game, download our app on the App Store or Play Store and sign up. More players signed up on the app. App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/pickup-sports-adult-league/id6739766176 Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.pickup.sports We host games for all sports in every city. Please check our app for complete game details and availability. Keywords: Soccer Basketball Tennis Volleyball Baseball Softball Football Rugby Hockey Golf Swimming Track and Field Cycling Wrestling Boxing Karate Judo Table Tennis Badminton Cricket Lacrosse Pickleball Rowing Sailing Skateboarding Surfing Snowboarding Skiing Spikeball Rock Climbing Martial Arts Dance \*\*\*Important: Do not rely on this Meetup event for final game details. All game information, including exact locations, start times, player counts, live status updates, etc. are available exclusively in the Pickup Sports App.\*\*\*\*

Hi ladies. Let's hike the Edward Thomas, Spring Creek, and a little multi-purpose trail - approximately 4 miles. Please bring a water bottle as needed and appropriate shoes. Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area.

Hi ladies. We will meet in front of the Nature Center and head to the two Observation decks. We will then hike Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook and Sugarbush trails to get approximately four miles total distance. We will walk approximately a 18 minute mile pace. Please wear appropriate hiking shoes.

This trail is a meandering path through the woods. There will be some overlooks and a couple stops at the creek as well as time along a waterway. It will not be a fast paced hike. There is some elevation change and uneven terrain. I will be using poles just to be safe! Will aim to get in about three miles. Optional lunch after if there is an interest.