Nature Walks

Does it feel like the world is ending? Stop doomscrolling and try some vigorous outdoor activity! We are NPS Weed Warriors and Arlington Regional Master Naturalists and you should volunteer with us on Sunday, March 15 to learn about nature and remove invasive plants from everyone's favorite urban island. Meet us at the entrance to the bridge (on the parking lot side, look for the sign) at 10:00 and bring your garden gloves and loppers/pruners if you have them. If not, we can provide gloves and tools. Wear long sleeves and pants and don't forget a water bottle. We will have tasks ranging from easy (cutting English ivy and honeysuckle vines from trees) to hard (sawing down bush honeysuckle). Parking at TRI can be tight if it's a pretty day. When the parking lot is full, you can park in Rosslyn and take the trail down. If you can bike or walk or take public transit, that's wonderful. We'll see you there! Erica, Stephanie, and Heidi P.S. If you can't wait until then to RIP (Remove Invasive Plants!), go here to find more volunteer opportunities in Arlington parks: [Volunteer to Restore Native Habitat – Arlington Regional Master Naturalists (armn.org)](https://armn.org/volunteer-opportunities/)

A few years back, Amazon created a new TV show about the Tom Clancy character Jack Ryan. Somewhat infamously, [Jack Ryan's Morning Commute](https://dcist.com/story/18/09/04/jack-ryans-commute-to-work-makes-ab/) makes no sense. So this walk is inspired by the route he should've taken Part 1 (9.5 miles) - https://maps.app.goo.gl/2pmXJaixbXQxnvfv8 1\. Foggy Bottom metro 2\. Potomac Boat club 3\. Chain Bridge 4\. Potomac Heritage Trail 5\. Turkey Run Trailhead Part 2 (\~2 miles) 6\. Turkey Run Trail \- https://www\.trailforks\.com/trails/turkey\-run\-trail\-759628/ 7\. Langley Fork Trail \- https://www\.trailforks\.com/trails/langley\-fork\-trail/ Part 3 (4 miles) - [https://maps.app.goo.gl/4n54jMK1q2xbefix5](https://maps.app.goo.gl/4n54jMK1q2xbefix5) 8\. McLean Metro **Millage:** \~16.0 miles **Start Location:** Foggy Bottom Metro Station **End Location:** McLean Metro Station **Time:** 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM **Terrain:** This will be have a solid amount of uphill (\~700 feet) elevation gain) with a mix of paved, gravel, and trail surfaces

Walk 3 miles circle followed by brunch.

**(Trailhead hike) Crow's Nest Nature Preserve is situated on a high, narrow ridgeline rising above two tidally influenced creeks: Potomac and Accokeek. It features 4,000 acres of old-growth woodland with several miles of hiking trails. All hikers will explore various trails that go to multiple viewpoints, including Crow’s Nest Point and Boykin’s Landing. Est.: 11.2 miles, 600 ft. elevation and 9.5 miles (plus optional 1 mile), 500 ft. elevation. Hike fee: $5** **Trailhead: Crow's Nest parking area, 9:30 AM** **Trailhead point: 81 Raven Road, Stafford, VA** From I-95 take the Stafford Exit (exit 140). Take Route 630 (Courthouse Road) one mile east to Stafford (intersection of 630 and U.S. 1). Cross U.S. 1 and continue east on Route 630 for about 2.5 miles. Turn right onto Route 629 (Andrew Chapel Road) and continue for 0.9 mile. Go under the railroad overpass at the community of Brooke and turn left onto Route 608 (Brooke Road). Continue for 1.4 miles, then turn right onto gravel Route 609 (Raven Road). Cross the 1-lane bridge over Accokeek Creek and continue for 0.2 mile. The Raven Road Access gate for Crow's Nest Natural Area Preserve will be on the left. 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)

Below is the alltrails link to the hike: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/maryland/capital-crescent-trail We will only be doing 3 miles overall in this hike, out and back. Parking and Metro Access: Park in the garage near 7150 Woodmont Ave, Bethesda, MD 20815. Or park on the streets----- street-parking is free on Sundays. For metro: just get down at Bethesda metro station. We will meet at the trailhead next to the Ourisman Honda, check out the photo section of this event for a visual of the location. Bring plenty of water, whatever you need for your hike, and your awesome authentic self. Keep it easygoing. RELEASE OF LIABILITY & ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT: By being a member of this Group, RSVPing to any Activity, or participating in any Activity, You accept and agree to the terms and conditions described below: 1. You acknowledge that hiking in nature carries the risk of potential harm to yourself, including the risk of injuries such as broken bones or muscle/tendon injuries, illness, disability, or death. 2. You agree that You will at all times be responsible for Yourself and Your own safety. 3. You release and hold harmless with respect to all injury, disability, death, or loss of property, whether caused by negligence or otherwise, this group's leadership and members for the hikes that you participate in. 4. You acknowledge and agree that this Group is merely a collection of friends or potential friends who enjoy doing activities, and that in no event does any Organizer or Other Member assume any responsibility or liability for You. 5\. You agree not to sue and to release\, discharge\, waive and hold harmless all organizers and other members from and against all liabilities\, claims\, demands\, losses\, damages\, suits and proceedings\, for negligence\, carelessness or any other cause which you may have or that hereafter may accrue arising\, resulting from or related to your membership in this group or participation in any activity\.

Ashby Hollow via Appalachian Trail on AllTrails [https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/ashby-hollow-via-appalachian-trail?sh=amrbvn&utm_medium=trail_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/ashby-hollow-via-appalachian-trail?sh=amrbvn&utm_medium=trail_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality) 5.7 miles, 1774 feet in elevation. it's an out and back, so we'll depend on the map or our bodies to tell us when to turn around. Bring food and other refreshments, proper clothing, etc. Remember as always that you are hiking at your own risk, and please let me or someone else know if you're turning around early. 1. Release Summary: To the full extent permitted by applicable law, you agree not to hold us responsible for anything that happens related to transactions with third parties, member interactions, or in connection with a Meetup group or Meetup event. You also agree not to hold organizers responsible for their negligence in connection with their Content, a Meetup group, or Meetup event. To the full extent permitted by applicable law, you agree to release us and our officers, directors, shareholders, agents, employees, consultants, corporate parent, affiliates, subsidiaries, sponsors, and other third-party partners ( “Meetup Parties”) from claims, demands, and damages (direct and consequential) (“Claims”), arising out of or in any way connected with any transaction with a third party, your interactions with other members, or in connection with a Meetup group or a Meetup event. You also agree, to the full extent permitted by applicable law, to release organizers from Claims based on an organizer’s negligence arising out of or in any way connected with their Content, a Meetup group, or a Meetup event. The law in some countries and states do not allow the release, so these limits may not apply to you. You waive and relinquish all rights and benefits that you have or may have under Section 1542 of the California Civil Code or any similar provision of statutory or non-statutory law of any other jurisdiction to the fullest extent permitted by law. You acknowledge that some Meetup events carry inherent dangers, such as the risk of illness, bodily injury, disability, or death. By participating in these events, you understand and agree that you have freely chosen to assume these risks. 1. Release Summary: To the full extent permitted by applicable law, you agree not to hold us responsible for anything that happens related to transactions with third parties, member interactions, or in connection with a Meetup group or Meetup event. You also agree not to hold organizers responsible for their negligence in connection with their Content, a Meetup group, or Meetup event. To the full extent permitted by applicable law, you agree to release us and our officers, directors, shareholders, agents, employees, consultants, corporate parent, affiliates, subsidiaries, sponsors, and other third-party partners ( “Meetup Parties”) from claims, demands, and damages (direct and consequential) (“Claims”), arising out of or in any way connected with any transaction with a third party, your interactions with other members, or in connection with a Meetup group or a Meetup event. You also agree, to the full extent permitted by applicable law, to release organizers from Claims based on an organizer’s negligence arising out of or in any way connected with their Content, a Meetup group, or a Meetup event. The law in some countries and states do not allow the release, so these limits may not apply to you. You waive and relinquish all rights and benefits that you have or may have under Section 1542 of the California Civil Code or any similar provision of statutory or non-statutory law of any other jurisdiction to the fullest extent permitted by law. You acknowledge that some Meetup events carry inherent dangers, such as the risk of illness, bodily injury, disability, or death. By participating in these events, you understand and agree that you have freely chosen to assume these risks.

Join us for an easy hike along the **Difficult Run Trail to Great Falls Park** and kick off your day with **great company** and engaging conversations! The trail is **mostly flat**, but a **246-foot incline within Great Falls Park** will give us a fun little cardio challenge. Don’t worry - we’ll pause at the top to regroup, hydrate, and catch our breath while soaking in the views. Whether you're here for the exercise, the scenery, or the chance to meet like-minded people, this hike has something for everyone! This trail is packed with sights: enjoy picturesque views along Difficult Run Stream and breathtaking overlooks of the Potomac River from up high. We’ll even come across a picnic table at the top of one incline, the perfect spot to rest, take in the view, and soak up some good vibes! Afterward, join us for an optional lunch at Mookie's BBQ to relax and unwind after our hike. **Meeting Time & Location** Meet at 9:30 AM at [Cross County Trail Access Point (Leigh Mill Rd & Kelso Rd)](https://maps.app.goo.gl/btDGQg7gphrVJdmB7). If you're running a bit late, you can catch up with us at the Difficult Run parking lot off Georgetown Pike - we’ll pass through about 30 minutes into the hike. **Distance:** 5 miles **Difficulty:** Easy (246 feet of elevation gain) This hike is rated Easy for its gentle terrain, wide paths, and manageable 246 feet of elevation gain. * **Easy Water Crossing:** Large stepping stones make the stream crossing simple and safe. * **No Rock Scrambling or Steep Climbs:** The trail has no steep rocky sections or scrambling required. * **Mild Inclines:** The mostly flat route includes a gentle 246 foot incline within Great Falls Park. **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** Plenty of parking is available. You can park off Route 683 by [Cross County Trail Access Point (Leigh Mill Rd & Kelso Rd)](https://maps.app.goo.gl/btDGQg7gphrVJdmB7) (be sure to park head-in, with your car clear of the street). Additional parking is on the shoulder of Kelso Road. The trailhead is at the intersection of Route 683 and Kelso Road, marked with a crosswalk. **Trail Map (AllTrails):** [Take a Hike! (DMV) - Difficult Run to Great Falls Park](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/difficult-run-from-683-23fa71c) **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 an optional lunch after the hike at **Mookie's BBQ, 1141 Walker Rd, Great Falls, VA 22066**. It’s a perfect way to relax and unwind after our time outdoors!

Join us for an hour of relaxing Yoga which. Cost: Free Level: Beginners What we will be doing: 1. This will be an hour long beginners flow yoga class. You are welcome to join if you are experienced or absolute beginner, just being interested is enough. Yoga is for everyone! 2. Through this meetup we will learn some yoga poses, breathing techniques, stretch our body, build strength. More importantly, we will try to learn about our body and find inner peace. Please: 1. don't get too full before practice but you can always bring snacks. 2. Please be on time, class will start on time. 3. Wear comfy clothes. 4. Bring your own mat or towel, water and YOURSELF. 5. UnRSVP if you can't make it. Disclaimer: Please consult with your healthcare provider before beginning any exercise program, including yoga. Yoga involves physical movement and may not be suitable for everyone. It is important to listen to your body and modify poses as needed to accommodate your individual needs and abilities. By participating in this yoga class, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own safety and well-being, and agree to release the instructor from any liability for injuries or damages that may occur during or after the class

*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.* (7ish-mile \*FUN\* exercise loop hike on the National Mall with occasional nano-runs [or optional fast walks].) We'll \*BRISKLY\* hike 7ish flat miles along dirt and paved trails and multiple staircases at the National Mall with stops roughly every 1/4 to 1/2 mile for 2 minutes of bodyweight exercises. Before each stop, we'll do a 30-second NANO-RUN (or fast walk or stairs). All exercises are modifiable and partner exercises are optional. We'll cover much of the National Mall. Starting at the restrooms by the (closed) World War II Memorial, we'll head past the Washington Monument and the Smithsonian's museums to the Capitol. Then we'll head to the Jefferson Memorial and follow the Potomac River to the Watergate steps (where First Lady Michelle Obama exercised on "The Biggest Loser" TV show. We'll hit the Lincoln Memorial and Constitution Gardens before returning to the WWII Memorial. There will be SELFIES! **MEET:** 9 am, bathrooms by World War II Memorial, 17 Street, SW at Independence Avenue, SW. Copy these GPS coordinates into Google Maps: 38.888064, -77.041273 **CLOSEST METRO:** Smithsonian Metro, 12th Street SW at Jefferson Drive SW, The National Mall. [https://www.wmata.com/rider-guide/stations/smithsonian.cfm](https://www.wmata.com/rider-guide/stations/smithsonian.cfm) **PARKING:** Please read the meters (and/or consult Parkmobile) before you park and check DC's parking website because parking is no longer free on the Mall and you can only park for 3 hours. It appears that you can still get FREE METERED STREET PARKING if you park A COUPLE OF BLOCKS OFF THE NATIONAL MALL on Sunday. There is likely free on-street parking by Virginia Avenue but I'm waiting to confirm that. Subway or private parking lot is recommended because 4.5 hours of metered parking may not be available. Consult DC's website: [https://www.parkdc.com/documents/20119eec435540ee8b6c49fcc314ac6c/explore](https://www.parkdc.com/documents/20119eec435540ee8b6c49fcc314ac6c/explore) **BRING:** Mandatory water, sense of humor, and sense of awe. Optional: oversized TRASH BAG TO SIT ON if you don't want to sit on the dirt or grass, gloves for pushups/planks, fully charged cell phone, and snack. **PLEASE READ. YOU \*WILL\* BE GRADED ON THIS: ;)** 1\. Adults only\. 2\. No pets\, including albino squirrels \(which we may see on the Mall\)\. 3\. Please do NOT attend unless you are experienced with bodyweight exercises\, you have done recent strength workouts\, and you can and will safely and cheerfully keep up with our moderate to BRISK pace \(about 3 mph while moving\)\. The end time is 1:30 for planning purposes but we could finish early. All exercises are optional and modifiable. Generally we'll do bodyweight exercises such as squats, lunges, situps, pushups, planks, wall sits, star jumps -- get that iPhone ready for the jumping pix! -- and other typical "boot camp" exercises. Hike leader is \*NOT\* a certified fitness trainer but just passing on exercises she has learned from fitness classes. Finish time is approximate for planning purposes. **WEATHER:** Hike will likely be cancelled or rescheduled due to rain/sleet/snow. Weather forecast will be posted here on March 21 by 5 p.m. **RESTROOMS:** At the start and along the mall. (But there could be lines.) **WORLD WAR II MEMORIAL:** (Closed for repairs but we're meeting at the restrooms.) [https://www.nps.gov/wwii/index.htm](https://www.nps.gov/wwii/index.htm) **NATIONAL MALL MAP:** [https://www.nps.gov/nama/planyourvisit/maps.htm](https://www.nps.gov/nama/planyourvisit/maps.htm) **PARKMOBILE:** https://parkmobile.io[https://parkmobile.io](https://parkmobile.io)

Hike Turkey Run Park- Pho Lunch, VA Sunday March 8 With winter weather receding, this is a great way to fight cabin fever and head back outside with views of the Potomac. This is a 3 to 4 mile loop hike along the Potomac River just below the American Legion bridge off the GW parkway. The trail is mostly easy and flat, but there are some slightly rocky areas. Be aware that this time of year where segments along the river can be muddy and there are some rocky areas we must maneuver around. Bring a mascot! The park is dog-friendly, but must be on a leash. For more info and maps (see side links): [https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/planyourvisit/turkeyrun.htm](https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/planyourvisit/turkeyrun.htm) What to Bring: Good hiking shoes Water Meet: 9:00 am Where: Parking Lot C-1. (First parking lot when entering park. See map at link below for details) Park Trail Map: [https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/planyourvisit/upload/Corrected-Turkey_Run_Park_Trail_Map_11242023_508c.pdf](https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/planyourvisit/upload/Corrected-Turkey_Run_Park_Trail_Map_11242023_508c.pdf) Departure: 9:10 sharp. We should return to the parking lot no later than 11:15 am. For those interested, we can later head over to nearby Pho 75 (1721 Wilson Blvd) for a great hot pho - one of the best in the area. **Note: Cash Only!** **In the comments section please indicate if you need a ride. If you are coming by car and wouldn’t mind picking someone up at a convenient metro stop, please indicate how many people you can take. Hopefully we’ll have enough room for everyone. I can pick up three at the Braddock Road metro (yellow), located in Alexandria, VA. Or, I can pick up folks at Rosslyn metro (orange/blue). Carpoolers, please chip in generously for gas.** Note: This event is cross-posted with other Meetup groups.

[https://ridewithgps.com/routes/41342369](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/41342369) 17.8 miles paved; lunch @ 9.5 miles @ Fletcher's Boathouse. Bathroom at start, Peirce Mill, Fletcher's boathouse; Bethesda outdoor pool (port-a-potty). Arrival is 10:00. Cycling starts at 10:15. For this e-biking extravaganza we begin at the Nature Center in Rock Creek Park and e-bike down Beach Drive, which is closed to cars. After a short stop at the waterfall and Peirce Mill, we continue on the trail past the National Zoo, take the Zoo Loop, and follow the trail toward the Potomac. After an optional stop at the Georgetown Waterfront, we'll wind our way onto the Capital Crescent Trail going north. Then on to Fletcher's Boathouse for lunch in the park. After lunch (you bring your own) we head north toward Bethesda, then make our way east through Chevy Chase and back to the Nature Center. The ride affords ample scenic vistas, multiple Kodak moments, and dare we say it, abundant E-Bike love. Please bring some snacks, lunch and plenty of water. Our bikes will be always in our sight. No additional locks are required to keep your bike safe on this trip. The group stops a few times for slower riders to catch up. The distance will be around 18 miles or shorter any time you are fully satisfied with biking for the day. **Please charge your battery. While much of the ride is flat or a gentle grade, be aware there are some hills on this route. As usual, non-assisted bikers are most welcome.** **Free Ride With GPS for E-Bike Lovers** The Ride With GPS E-bike Lovers club membership is now free as www.ebikelovers.com generates sufficient income from ads to cover the costs. Here is the link to activate your free membership: https://ridewithgps.com/auto_approve/Club/6746/Zwa5jhttF5mJrFbN **More information about using GPS files:** https://ebikelovers.com/2021/03/15/download-our-trails-and-never-get-lost/ **More information about e-bike ranges:** https://ebikelovers.com/2020/12/31/e-bike-longer-and-happier-15-smart-strategies-to-reduce-your-e-bike-range-anxiety/ **DISCLAIMER** LIMITATION OF LIABILITY: TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMISSIBLE PURSUANT TO APPLICABLE LAW, NEITHER GREGORY MAASSEN, NATHAN MERRIS, RICHARD CAMER, TRIP COORDINATORS, THEIR AFFILIATES, FAMILY AND FORMER AND CURRENT EMPLOYERS NOR ANY OTHER PARTY INVOLVED IN CREATING, PRODUCING, OR DELIVERING E-BIKE LOVERS GUIDES, OUR MEETUP EVENTS, AND THE GPS E-TRAILS IS LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, INDIRECT, EXEMPLARY, OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF A USER’S ACCESS TO, OR USE OF THE E-BIKE LOVERS GUIDES, OUR MEETUP EVENTS, AND THE GPS E-TRAILS. See for full disclaimer: https://ebikelovers.com/disclaimer

Join us for 2.5 mile hike at the Whitehall Community Park leaving from the Whitehall YMCA. We will do two 1.25 loops around the park all on a paved path, including one significant hill.

Free at Bexley Library Adventures in Ecological Horticulture with Rebecca McMackin Wednesday, March 18 1:00pm - 2:30pm Gone are the days when a garden could be ornamental alone. We now recognize the impact that our land care practices have on the ecosystems around us, and can see the importance of encouraging biodiversity. Thankfully, we do not need to sacrifice beauty when we invite butterflies and songbirds into our gardens. Rebecca McMackin has cultivated gorgeous landscapes in the toughest environments possible: urban parks, school playgrounds, and the sidewalks of New York City. She will take lessons from her work at Brooklyn Bridge Park, the Brooklyn Museum, and decades of research to share how those of us who are fortunate enough to care for land, can do it beautifully and ecologically. Rebecca McMackin is an ecologically obsessed horticulturist and garden designer. She writes, lectures, and teaches on ecological landscape management and pollination ecology, as well as designs the rare public garden. She is currently Lead Horticulturist for the American Horticultural Society, an Associate with the Harvard Divinity School’s Thinking with Plants and Fungi Initiative, and Consulting Arboretum Curator for Woodlawn Cemetery in the Bronx, NY. Rebecca spent a decade as Director of Horticulture of Brooklyn Bridge Park, where she managed 85 acres of diverse parkland organically. Their research into cultivating urban biodiversity and ethical management strategies has influenced thousands of people and entire urban parks systems to adopt similar approaches. She has been published by and featured in the New York Times, Gardens Illustrated, on NPR and PBS. Her garden for the Brooklyn Museum recently won the PPA’s Award of Excellence and her TED Talk has been viewed over a million times. She holds M.Sc. from Columbia University and University of Victoria in landscape design and biology and recently completed the Loeb Fellowship at the Harvard Graduate School of Design. This program is presented in partnership with Rooted in Bexley and generously funded by the Bexley Community Foundation and Bexley Community Author Series Fund.

[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).

# Stop Scrolling. Start Living. Sometimes the best way to meet new people is simple **get out of the house and do something in real life.** With spring weather still unpredictable, we’re keeping this one simple **we’ll be walking indoor or outdoor at Polaris.** **Most people who attend come alone — this is a casual social walk designed to meet new people.** No awkward networking. No pressure. Just walking, talking, and good company. Whether you're new to the group or a regular, this is a great way to **get some steps in, meet new people, and do something different on a Sunday afternoon.** Location **Polaris Fashion Place** **Meeting Spot:** Outside or just inside **"Dicks Main entrance"** from parking lot Look for the **Meetup sign and green or gold wristbands.** ## The Plan **2:15 PM — Meetup / Check-in** Arrive, say hello, meet a few people, and get checked in. *The first 15 minutes are usually the best time to meet people before we start walking.* **2:30 PM — Walk Starts (Sharp)** We’ll begin a **casual indoor or outdoor social walk around Polaris Mall.** by the end of the hour we should be near 3 miles approx. 6k steps **\~3:30 PM — Walk Ends** Anyone who wants to keep the fun going can join us for Topgolf. ## Optional Activity After We’ll head over to **Topgolf** No golf experience needed — **beginners welcome.** Lets see your best Happy Gilmore swing!!! *** ## RSVP / Cost To reduce no-shows and keep events sustainable: **$2 — Walk RSVP** **$15 — Optional Topgolf add-on** or **$17 TOTAL** Topgolf is **limited to the first 6 paid players per bay.** If the first bay fills, I’ll open another lane if enough people want to join. **To keep group sizes manageable and reduce no-shows, this event is limited to paid attendees. RSVP alone does not reserve a spot.** Venmo **(preferred)** [https://account.venmo.com/u/WiseUnlimitedLLC](https://account.venmo.com/u/WiseUnlimitedLLC) PayPal [https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/AUHWXSKJHRKRG](https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/AUHWXSKJHRKRG) Include your **Meetup name + event name** in the note. Comment **“Paid”** on the event or message me so I can confirm your spot. **Important** RSVP alone **does not guarantee a spot.** Paid attendees receive: • Event wristband • Guaranteed Topgolf spot (if purchased) • Inclusion in group activities ## Why These Events Exist Wise Unlimited events exist to help people: • meet new friends • get off their phones • do more things in real life Too many people want to go do things but **don’t want to go alone.** This solves that. **Stop scrolling. Start doing stuff.**

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.

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