Nature Walks

You don't need to know what NoMa means to walk around there. **Time:** \~6pm-8:15pm **Start/End Location:** NoMa-Gallaudet U Metro station, start northern entrance/exit **Map:** [Plotaroute](https://www.plotaroute.com/route/3201781?units=km), [Caltopo](https://caltopo.com/m/R8P1P1R) **Millage:** 4.2 **Terrain:** There will mostly be paved and level ground. **Route:** * Start at NoMa–Gallaudet U Metro, north entrance * Warm up loop up towards Monroe Johnson Plaza. * Snake south from N -> L * Short stint north on MBT, getting off M * Head earth towards Florida ave, meandering along the way between M and I * Walk north along Floria Ave / Gallaudet * Walk through union market area * End back NoMa–Gallaudet U Metro, \~south entrance \-\-\- We try to be punctual with our event times so please be respectful to others and show up a few minutes early. Note, we often limit the RSVPs to keep group sizes manageable. If you are on the waitlist but would really like to join, reach out to the organizer. Our events prioritize metro accessibility by meeting and ending at metro stations. Sometimes we start/stop at the same station, sometimes we do not. Please double check the event description to see if you can manage transportation. If you've enjoyed our walks please consider donating a few bucks to help us keep this group running (meetup is expensive!). [Donation Link](https://venmo.com/code?user_id=2158403661070336114)

Let's enjoy the last semi-warm day that we'll have before the predicted storm, this coming weekend. After we eat, we'll take a walk where Belleview Marina is, starting at Dyke Marsh. [WINTER-LUNCH-26.pdf](http://riverbendbistro.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/WINTER-LUNCH-26.pdf) Please KEEP CHECKING for changes/UPDATES. [Thu1/22](https://www.accuweather.com/en/us/alexandria/22314/daily-weather-forecast/331249?day=3) [54° /30°](https://www.accuweather.com/en/us/alexandria/22314/daily-weather-forecast/331249?day=3) [6%](https://www.accuweather.com/en/us/alexandria/22314/daily-weather-forecast/331249?day=3) Mostly cloudy and warmer

Mindful movement and flow: This class is a slower moving, strengthening and balance building practice based on mindfulness. We will bring our intentions to the awareness of our bodies and our breath in movement or in longer held poses. We will explore different breathing techniques that help clear out physical, emotional or mental energies allowing a sense of peace within. The session is offered InStudio and OnLine. The Zoom link for the OnLine session will be emailed 15 minutes before class starts to those who are registered at www.piesfitnessyoga.com. **Sign up for sessions must be made at least 2 hours prior to class.** The address is 1322 Prince St. Alexandria, VA 22314. Our entrance is located on the side of the building, parallel to West St. **Street parking is available and additional parking is located at Shiloh Baptist church, spaces 36,37,38,39.** The church is located across the street from the studio, on the corner of Duke St. and West St.

**++++++++++++++++++++** **12:00 NOON Start** **Extended forecast: temperatures low 50s°F, partly cloudy** **++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride: Summary** **(Must Read)** **++++++++++++++++++++** * RIDE NAME: The Koffee Klatch Ride ("Social" Pace): Valletta Espresso Bar in Old Town North * START LOC: Bluemont Park Tennis Parking Area, Wilson Blvd & N Manchester St, Arlington, VA * START GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/6VkzVaS72LKGn9nr5](https://goo.gl/maps/6VkzVaS72LKGn9nr5) * START PARKING: Bluemont Park Tennis Parking Area (with Restrooms) * ARRIVAL: 12:00pm * SPEECH: 12:10pm ***—> \*\*you must be present for the speech or no ride for you!\*\**** * ROLLING: 12:15pm * LEVEL: Medium * PACE: 11-13 mph (Social Pace) * DISTANCE: 19.5 mi * TERRAIN: Trail / Street / Cycle path * Route: **CBG_KOFFEEK_VALLETTA_OTN_2025** * [https://ridewithgps.com/routes/53755002](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/53755002) * * **Notes:** * This ride is organized very "lean," will only expand the number of riders if I get another organizer. * Pump your tires on the morning of the ride, please. * It is strongly suggested that you become a NoVA CBG RidewithGPS club member and download the route posted for each "Klatch". * Loading the route onto your Garmin (or other Nav device) is also acceptable. * **NoVA CBG has a turn by turn RideWithGPS club account that's free. [https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/events/271742916/](https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/events/271742916/)** **++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride: Detail** **++++++++++++++++++++** Welcome to The Koffee Klatch! These rides are normally based off the Arlington Loop, where we visit different area coffee shops or bakeries for a cup and/or treat if desired but you don't have to drink or even like coffee to participate. This week we will again do a loop to Old Town North Alexandria and sample the new [Valletta Espresso Bar](https://www.vallettaespressobar.com/), 682 St Asaph St, about mile 8.7. The ride is a 19.5 mile medium level ridden at a social pace (11-13 mph). We will get on the W&OD from the Bluemont Tennis Parking Area and ride to Old Town for coffee at a new espresso bar on St Asaph St. Afterwards we will ride back to the starting point via Columbus and Cameron Streets, up Commonweath, Monroe, DeWitt, and over Mt Jefferson Greenway to Four Mile Run Park. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Meeting Spot:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** Bluemont Tennis Parking Area (with Restrooms) Wilson Blvd & N Manchester St Arlington, VA 22203 GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/6VkzVaS72LKGn9nr5](https://goo.gl/maps/6VkzVaS72LKGn9nr5) We will meet in the parking lot. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **Ride Level Chart** **+++++++++++++++++++++** NoVA CBG tries to accommodate all levels of cyclists by offering different types/levels of rides. We just ask that you come to the ride that suits your current riding ability the best. * Introductory Level: If you haven't ridden a bike in a number of years (or are uncertain of your abilities on a bicycle). * Beginner Level: You can ride for 10+ miles at a pace of 10+ to 12+ mph with potentially minor hills involved. * Medium Level: You can ride for 20+ miles at a pace of 13+ to 15+ mph with potentially moderate hills involved. * Advanced Level: You can ride for 20++ miles at a pace of 15+ mph with potentially major hills involved. Both Medium and Advanced Levels might require handling various challenges such as reading cue sheets, using a Garmin or navigation app, night riding, out of town travel, or any other odd cycling situations. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Fine Print:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** An RSVP of 'YES' is your digital signature and means you have read and understood MEETUP.com's: * "Terms of Service : Section 6. Release" found at https://www.meetup.com/terms/ * NOVA-CBG's "Assumption of Risk Agreement" found @ https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/pages/1942951/NOVA-CBG_Waiver/ * NoVA CBG's "COVID Policy" found @ http://bit.ly/2021_NoVACBG_COVID19_POLICY Helmets are required to participate in all NOVA-CBG rides. All riders ride at their own risk and with the understanding that cycling is an inherently dangerous activity. When coming to the meetup you do so voluntarily and are ready and able to participate in the ride as described under the conditions of the day. Be on time for the "pre-ride" preparation. If you do not attend the pre-ride preparation you will not be allowed to participate on the ride. There are NO exceptions to the above.

Out-and-back, go-at-your-own-pace hike of 10.2 miles on former right-of-way of a historic railroad through lovely wooded sections of Northwest DC, with an optional indoor lunch stop in Bethesda, MD. Total of 350 feet of elevation climbed on a few hills, at your own pace. [https://www.cctrail.org/points_of_interest](https://www.cctrail.org/points_of_interest) Level: Moderate 10 miles: Allow min. 4 hours for this hike. Meet at Fletcher's Boat House - 4940 Canal Rd, NW We meet by 9:30 am on the first/upper parking lot for registration. If there is no room in the first parking lot when you enter, proceed through the tunnel under the canal to a much larger parking lot, then walk back up the stairs/bridge to the meeting point. There are bathrooms there. Dress in warm layers, bring (hot) water, snacks and or lunch ...plus anything you might need for balance and to stay warm. Leaders: Rob Anderson 202-258-1010 and Vicky Hsu 240-370-7011 **ONE DAY HIKE** Although open to all, this hike is part of a series of Saturday training hikes leading up to the [One Day Hike](https://www.meetup.com/sierrapotomac/events/304791832/) (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/304792694/) . For official updates regarding training hikes, registration, and other information, join the ODH discussion group by sending a blank email to onedayhike+subscribe@groups.io. **SCPRO DONATION:** A voluntary $2.00 donation per event is appreciated. You may donate via PayPal by sending money to ECommerce@SierraPotomac.org using “For friends and family” as payment type, or in cash at the event. You may join the Sierra Club by clicking "JOIN" on the Virginia Chapter's [website](http://www.sierraclub.org/virginia).

Meet other Arlington remote workers for a walk around the block. Just a casual stroll through the neighborhood to get some steps in and have an in person convo.

Please join the Sugarloafers for a group walk through the village of Garrett Park. The village of Garrett Park began as a railroad suburb, a place where people could live in the country but work and attend cultural events in DC. Many Victorian era "cottages" still exist. In 1977 Garrett Park declared itself an arboretum to protect and manage its collection of trees and to allow for planting a greater variety of species and maintain its sylvan character. There are 2 trails: a 5k and a 10k * The 5 k heads directly tothe town of Garrett Park, passes late Victorian era homes, the Town Hall, and the Penn Building. * The 10 k starts with the 5 k then adds Randolph Hill Neighborhood which features beautifully maintained 1950's brick homes, then finishes on the Rock Creek multi-use trail. This is a sanctioned American Volkssports Association, American's Walking Club event. Please arrive early to stamp your books. The Sugarloafers charge $4 participation fee for everyone over 12 years old. Please bring cash or Sugarloafer walk coupons. Please RSVP and we will message in the event of cancelation due to weather.

I’m planning on posting a lot more city visit walks for 2026. Let’s start the year doing a quick trip down to Fredericksburg! Route: The route meanders through the city. Highlights include \- Chatham Manor \- Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Battlefield \- Historic Downtown Fred \- Rappahannock River \- Mary Washington House \+ Mary Washington Monument Logistics This walk requires more than just metro. You may drive if you would like, but I'm assuming most (including myself) will be taking the train to Fredericksburg. We will meet at Union Station at 11:30 and take the 79 Carolinian leaving at 12:10. The train also stops at Alexandria if that is more convenient. For the trip back to DC we will take the 124 Northeast Regional leaving Fred at 6:34 PM. I HIGHLY recommend booking your train ticket ASAP as prices do increase as we get closer to the date. You can book your train tickets at [amtrak.com](amtrak.com). Outbound Train: 79 Carolinian Inbound Train: 124 Northeast Regional Start Location: Union Station (Main Hall) End Location: Union Station Distance: Approx 5-7 miles Route: This will be more of a meander to various cool spots in the city. There’s no set route, so we can play it by ear. Terrain: Mostly Paved/brick sidewalks. Potentially minimal bushwhacking to get to Chatham Manor. \-\-\-\-\- Our events prioritize metro accessibility by meeting and ending at metro stations. Sometimes we start/stop at the same station, sometimes we do not. Please double check the event description for start/end locations to see if you can manage transportation to them. We try to be punctual with our event times so please be respectful to others and show up a few minutes early, because we will leave without you. We're always looking for new leaders who can showcase their neighborhood or any cool places they know, so please reach out either at an event or on meetup if you are interested. If you've enjoyed our walks please consider donating a few bucks to help us keep this group running (meetup is expensive!). [Donation Link](https://venmo.com/code?user_id=2158403661070336114)

Hike leaders, this event is for you! In appreciation of our hard-working volunteers, we're hosting a special outing to thank them for contributing their time to make the Capital Hiking Club a success. If you led a trip in the last calendar year, the CHC board members would like to invite you to join us at Swingers Crazy Golf in Dupont Circle. What you'll enjoy: * Tasty food and drinks. * A round of mini-golf * And a chance to test your skills with some carnival games! ****This event is invite-only for CHC hike leaders**--please add yourself to the waitlist, and we'll move you into the event. **Email jen.adach[at]gmail.com by Jan. 9 with any dietary restrictions. Interested in learning how you can be a hike leader? Reach out to us--we'll be happy to get you started!

**Free & Open to the Public!** Feeling stressed, burnt out, lacking focus or clarity, struggling with mental health, or just need a midday energy and creativity boost? **Join me every Monday from 12:15pm to 1pm at Sharon Woods Metro Park (Westerville, OH) for Nature-based Mindfulness Walks and Meditations.** Being outside in nature and cultivating a mindfulness practice is scientifically proven to improve mood, energy, focus, creativity, enhance physical and mental health, and reduce stress, burnout, and symptoms of depression. This 45-minute session combines nature exposure with simple mindfulness and mind-body practices (gentle movement, guided meditation, and nature awareness), to promote your holistic wellbeing and offer a positive and restorative break to your day. As an Integrative Wellness & Life Coach who specializes in nature-based mindfulness and mind-body modalities, I am committed to providing accessible, beneficial, and educational community experiences. Please share the word and I'm looking forward to seeing you there! **Directions**: Meet at the Northeast Lot and Pavilion (on your right) before Apple Ridge Picnic Area in Sharon Woods Metro Park at 12:15pm **Schedule**: * Introduction * Opening meditation * Nature walk – a facilitated silent nature-mindfulness experience * Closing meditation Walk distance: approximately 1.25 mi *In the spirit of acceptance, enhancing mind-body experiences, and widening our tolerance for discomfort, this event is held regardless of weather conditions, unless otherwise notified for potentially unsafe conditions (e.g. active thunderstorm, tornado warning, etc.)*

[The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations. If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!). **HOW IT WORKS** **Step 1: Bring a topic** Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event. **Step 2: Circle up & share** We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds. **Step 3: Walk, talk & float** We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!" **Step 4: Feel more alive** Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times. *For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)* **HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC** A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about. Recent topics include: * "What are you passionate about right now?" * "What makes a good friend?" * "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?" * "How do you want to be remembered?" * "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?" Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter. **WHAT TO EXPECT** This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.* But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here. **FAQ** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space. * Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know. * Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **LOGISTICS** * If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs. * Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details. * If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋 **IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...** [The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up. * This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).

For Adults: Beginner Macrame Plant Hangers January 31, 2026 @ 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm Create a basic cord plant hanger and then practice some simple macrame knots to use in future projects. Hosted by Metro Parks VENUE Inniswood Metro Gardens 940 S. Hempstead Rd. Westerville, OH 43081 Phone (614)895-6216

Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area. If trail conditions are poor, we will use the Multipurpose Path.

We'll hike about 2.5 miles on the Scioto Audobon Trail and can extend the distance as the group prefers. Will ask one of the faster regulars to take the front (about 16 minute miles) and I’ll bring up the rear at about 19 minute miles. No one left behind. Those who wish can join for lunch at Nocterra after the hike. Note: There is a $5 gift card on the Nocterra site if you provide your email and birthdate.