Outdoors and Adventure

Let's escape for a spontaneous, relaxing walk at Blackburn Lake Sanctuary! 🌿 With 4km of scenic trails, we can stroll around the lake, visit the boardwalk, and enjoy the birdlife. Meet at the Visitor Centre car park (off Central Rd) in 30 minutes for a quick loop—perfect to clear the mind. Blackburn Lake Sanctuary +3 When: Today! (Let's meet at [Time]) Where: Visitor Centre Car Park, Central Rd What: A 30-minute to 1-hour easy walk, bird watching. walkingmaps.com.au +1 It’s the perfect, quiet getaway in the middle of the suburbs. Let me know if you can make it! AllTrails

🎲🗣️ **Play, Debate, Speak! – A Hands-on English Workshop** Looking for a fun way to practise English and boost your speaking confidence? Join us for an interactive workshop filled with games, friendly debates, and spontaneous speaking challenges! In collaboration with **The Couch International Student Centre**, this workshop is designed for international students who want to practise English in a relaxed and supportive environment while meeting new friends. 📅 **Date:** Thursday, 16 April 📍 **Location:** The Couch International Student Centre 69 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000 ⏰ **Time:** 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM 🥘 **Free dinner provided by The Couch** 🎯 **Workshop Highlights** • Speaking board games to practise conversation • Fun mini debates to share your opinions • Impromptu speaking challenges to build confidence • Meet and connect with other international students No preparation needed — just bring your ideas and your voice! Come play, speak, and grow your confidence in English. 🌟 **[IMPORTANT] Please be advised that this event is for overseas students ONLY** ✨ **Community Rules** ✨ * This is a rain-or-shine event. * 18+ only. * Maintain respect and no unsolicited contact. * No advertising and selling during the event. * By attending this event, you accept our [Terms and Conditions](https://docs.google.com/document/d/11Afnnu5xW6Yhtgl4LGDAVEMSdJ-7M3aC7Cs-s_t0uOo/edit?usp=sharing), including [media consent policy](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1rgNOcewZs-tKYUEBt3gV84hob1HdDXydjrGf_tEiXjQ/edit?usp=drive_link), and agree to adhere to our [liability waiver](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hKqVIMcXMFdzvpjqO3KRf_uQ5xAzd-jt/view?usp=drive_link)

Thursday Futsal in Footscray! ⚽⚽⚽ 5-a-side Futsal (indoor soccer), played on an indoor pitch. Cost: $10 (pre-pay) 10 players min/max. Court booked for 1 hour. RSVPs only please. Normal Runners/Sneakers or Futsal shoes are fine (no studs). Location: Victoria University Footscray Park Campus - 3rd Floor (court 3), Corner of Ballarat rd and Geelong rd, Footscray (near the Flemington Racecourse). Located in Footscray, which is just 5km from the CBD. Plenty of Parking available. Also serviced by public transport. It is a 15 min walk from Footscray train station. https://www.vu.edu.au/campuses/footscray-park Refund Policy: Please be aware that if for some reason you cannot attend, that you provide at least 24 hours notice to allow a sufficient replacement. Failure to not attend or withdraw in a timely manner will lead to removal from the group. https://youtu.be/iF65zrwsIaY

**Change to indoor venue due to weather** Join us at Dandenong Soccer5s for a fun-filled Walking Football Mixed Gender Session, brought to you by Walking Football 4 Health Victoria. This event is designed for anyone looking for a low impact sport to stay active, be part of a welcoming community, and most importantly have fun. **Come join our regular group of 8-12 players every week** Our friendly hosts, Ivy (0423858705) and Rudi will be there to introduce you to walking football, ensuring a safe and engaging experience. Don't miss out on this opportunity to engage in sports, socialise, and promote a healthy lifestyle in a welcoming community environment. Enjoy your first session on us — absolutely free! After that, it's just $5 per session. Sign up now and be a part of this exciting Walking Football Session. If you wish to contact the organiser, Mick directly, you can do so on: 0430 163 550 Email: [info@wf4hvictoria.org.au](mailto:info@wf4hvictoria.org.au) Website: [Walking Football | Walking Soccer | Walking Football 4 Health](https://wf4hvictoria.org.au/) Facebook Community: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/wf4healthvictoria/](https://www.facebook.com/groups/wf4healthvictoria/)

Do you want to see a show tonight? I know this is late notice, but if you can come, do come and see a good show by Abby Howells. Buy direct tickets here: https://www.comedyfestival.com.au/browse-shows/the-cave/ show blurb... \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Welcome to *The Cave*. What is *The Cave*? Well, you’ll have to come to find out. Does Abby know what *The Cave* is? Oh yeah, don’t worry about that. *The Cave* is funny (hopefully hahahah) *The Cave* is nice, I reckon come on in. *The Cave* is presented by Abby Howells. Abby is best known for coming last on season five of *Taskmaster NZ*, but she gave it a really good go. She won New Zealand comedy’s prestigious Billy T Award in 2023 and can also be seen on *Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont-Spelling Bee*, *7 Days* and *Conan O'Brien Must Go*. ***'Gem of a show.'* ★★★★★ The Age**

Overcome Your Fear of Public Speaking with Southbank Toastmasters! Ready to transform nerves into confidence? Join us for a fun, interactive workshop to: ✨ Conquer your fear of speaking 💡 Learn pro tips from experienced mentors 📈 Boost your business and career through powerful communication Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned speaker, this is your chance to grow, connect, and shine! 🌟 Don’t miss out—step up to the mic and join us! 🎤

We are heading to Macedon for the Autumn leaves. Please do carry takeaway lunch. Please follow theses two steps to confirm your spot: Step 1: Please RSVP to this event on meetup. Step 2: Please pay the organizer fee (Early Bird - $15, Regular - $20) via Trybooking - [https://www.trybooking.com/DIMXP](https://www.trybooking.com/DIMXP) Payments are managed through Trybooking and not Meetup. You will see an **"Unpaid"** status on your RSVP. The only thing you need is the Trybooking ticket which you will receive by email. You do not have to message me for the same. I will manually update the meetup payment status closer to the event date if the names on Trybooking and Meetup are the same. Trybooking tickets are non-refundable. There is no option to transfer the ticket to a new date. Trybooking tickets will be only refunded if the event is cancelled or moved. This is a rain or shine event. Please carry an umbrella if you think it is going to rain. Walking distance: 4km (Easy - Almost Flat) Please note that we will do an optional trip to Forest Glade Gardens if the council is doing a shuttle bus service similar to last year (charges apply). **Meeting Point**: Let's meet in the Corner of Spencer Street and Bourke Street (Station Side - Near the steps) at 10:45 AM. Please remember to bring your myki card. **Meeting Point Photo**: [https://bit.ly/2SkyVL2](https://bit.ly/2SkyVL2) Autumn is the season we bid farewell to the baking heat of summer and welcome the vibrant autumnal hues of oranges, reds and yellows in the foliage around us. Let's visit Macedon to see the beautiful autumn colours. Cost: Organizer Fee: $15 (Early Bird), $20 (Regular) Optional Shuttle with Forest Glade Gardens: $20 Public transport is free for this weekend. We should be back to city around 5:30 PM. Please follow us on Social Media for photos, videos & updates: [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@explore-melbourne) \| [Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/exploremelb) \| [Facebook Group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/exploremelb) \| [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/xpmelb/) \| [TikTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@exploremelbourne) \| [ExploreMelbourne.AU](https://exploremelbourne.au/) Explore Melbourne is the largest meetup group in Australia. We have eight simple rules in place to protect our community and for everyone to have a positive experience. ❌ Not a dating group! – We’re here to make friends, not find soulmates. No flirty business, please! 📵 No phone numbers, please! – Feel free to swap social media if both parties are cool with it, but let’s keep our digits private. Please don’t add people to WhatsApp or other groups. 🔞 Our events are only open to people aged 18 and older. 📢 Please do not advertise other events or groups. 😅 Don’t be a social octopus! – Give people space to chat with others. Please don't be clingy. 🚗 We don't allow carpooling due to safety incidents/our public liability insurance not covering motor related accidents. 💰 No sales pitches! – No selling, no MLMs, no pyramid schemes, no “life-changing mentorship” offers—let’s keep things scam-free. 📸 Cameras welcome, but… – please refrain from taking photos of our members for privacy reasons. By joining this event, you’re giving us a virtual pinky promise 🤝 that you’ll follow the rules. Break them, and—poof!—you’re out for good. No second chances, no do-overs. Let’s keep it fun, friendly, and drama-free! **Liability Waiver:** The organizer of this group cannot accept any liability for any loss, damage, injury, or accident to participants or their property at this event. By participating in this event, you're taking responsibility for your safety and well-being. By joining this event, you agree to the liability waiver mentioned here: [https://exploremelbourne.au/explore-melbourne-liability-waiver/](https://exploremelbourne.au/explore-melbourne-liability-waiver/)

I don't know how many times we walked in the Grampians, but I do remember every time is different and always gives us a great experience. MT STURGEON hike Distance: 7 km return Time: 2.5- 3 hours Elevation change: 343m Grade: hard MT ABRUPT and Signal Peak hike Distance: 10.8km return Time: 4 - 5 hours Elevation change: 634m Grade: hard 【Itinerary】 Day 1: Meet up at Melbourne by each car around 8:30am. Drive to the campground near grampians (Dunkeld caravan park), arrive around 11:30 am. Set up tents and have a quick lunch. Do the Mount Sturgeon hike and have sunset if possible. Go back to campsite and cook the dinner. Day 2: Cook breakfast and prepare lunch. Do the Mt Abrupt hike. Drive back to Melbourne. 【Cost】 $26 including camping fee, group management fee, and firewood. After the bank transfer, I will add you to the Facebook Messenger group for this trip. 【Car Pooling 】 Carpooling, the total distance around 640km, $45 per person if 4 ppl in a car. Please give the car cost to your driver directly. https://www.groupcarpool.com/t/ur2yfa 【What to bring?】: Sufficient water per day (2 litres min.); Sunscreen; A hat and suitable shoes; A first-aid kit; Camping gear (tent, sleeping bag, and mattress) 【Risks and Waiver of Liability】 By attending the OZ Adventurers event, I represent that I am in good physical health and capable of participating in the event. I understand that risks of Injuries and Damages are involved in hiking and other adventure travel, and I appreciate that I may have to exercise extra care for my own person and for others around me. I agree to WAIVE, DISCHARGE CLAIMS, AND RELEASE FROM LIABILITY OZ Adventurers, Its organisers, leaders, volunteers, members and attendees from any and all liability on account of, or in any way resulting from Injuries and Damages. 【Facebook Group】 You can also visit our Facebook group or Facebook page for more events. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/ozadventurers](https://www.facebook.com/groups/ozadventurers) [https://www.facebook.com/OZadventurers](https://www.facebook.com/OZadventurers)

Please Note: - this event is only for committee members and members who have skied with us several times before on previous trips. Any new members, are welcome to attend our club information night at the start of June. Hope everyone is well and looking forward to hitting the alpine region this winter. With that in mind, it is high time to prepare for this year's activities. Mark and I will be hosting a pre-season meetup at Mark’s home in Heidelberg. The committee and any interested members who have skied with us before are welcome to come along and help design the 2026 trip program. The more leaders who can help out, the more trips we can run. The goals are: * to confirm any accommodated events are in hand - that is, the dates are confirmed, the venue is booked, etc. * to give members an opportunity to have input into shaping this year's calendar. We usually use the previous year as a template, and adapt as necessary. * to get a preliminary expression of interest from people interested in helping run the activities, either as leaders, assistants, car pooling coordinators, cooks, etc. * to ensure new and existing leaders are catered for, in terms of (mandatory and fully subsidised) first aid qualifications, etc. * to learn the organizational details of leading a ski trip, including how to manage bookings, responsible trip leadership and other useful information * any other miscellaneous information or issues which might impact on the 2023 program.

**Registration required at below link:** **Tickets: $50** https://events.humanitix.com/oot-and-aboot-community-camp-autumn-edition-or-western-victoria Oot & Aboot is a volunteer-run registered LGBTQIA+ charity creating inclusive outdoor and nature-based experiences that support mental wellbeing. The Community Camp is a relaxed, low-pressure overnight camping experience designed to bring LGBTQIA+ people and allies together in nature. This is our very first event, and we’re intentionally keeping it simple. There’s no packed schedule or expectations — just space to slow down, connect, and enjoy the outdoors in good company. Across one autumn night, you can look forward to: * A welcoming and inclusive camp environment * Lawn and board games * Casual group walks in nature * Plenty of unstructured community time to talk, laugh, and connect * A simple self-serve breakfast on Sunday morning This is an **adults-only (18+)** event with a maximum of **30 participants**, creating an intimate and friendly atmosphere. No prior camping experience is required. The campsite is located near Barrys Reef, VIC, approximately a one-hour drive from Melbourne CBD. For safety and privacy reasons, the exact location will be provided only to confirmed ticket holders and can be found on the ticket sent via email. Please remember to check your junk or spam folder if you don’t see it in your inbox. Know before you go: * Participants should bring their own camping gears (tent, sleeping bag, air mattress, pillow, etc.), warm clothes, food, and drinks (except breakfast) * Alcohol may be consumed responsibly * As a new, volunteer-run charity, we’re not yet able to cater for specific dietary or allergy requirements — please bring food that meets your needs * Some uneven ground and bush walking may be involved * Dogs and other pets are not permitted due to our insurance. Park Facilities (shared with other guests): * Powered and grassed sites * Camp Kitchen: Includes microwave, fridge, kettle, toaster, electric hotplates and grill * Laundry: Washing machine, dryer (coin operated), clothesline * Free WIFI (only certain area) * BBQ (coin operated) * Available to purchase: washing powder, bagged firewood and bagged ice (subject to stock availability) Oot & Aboot events are grounded in respect, inclusion, and care. We aim to create spaces where LGBTQIA+ people and allies feel safe, welcome, and supported. If you’re looking for a gentle way to reconnect with nature and community, we’d love to have you join us. ## FAQs 1\. Who is this event for? This event is for LGBTQIA+ adults and allies (18+). It’s designed to be welcoming, inclusive, and low-pressure. 2\. Do I need camping experience? No. This is a relaxed community camp. If you can set up basic camping gear, you’ll be just fine. 3\. What does my ticket include? Your ticket covers campsite fees, access to facilities, lawn and board games, casual group walks, and a simple shared breakfast on Sunday morning. 4\. What food is provided? A simple self-serve breakfast (bread, spreads, fruit, tea & coffee) is included. Please bring your own food and drinks for all other meals. 5\. Can you cater for dietary requirements or allergies? As a new, volunteer-run charity, we’re not yet able to cater for specific dietary or allergy requirements. Please bring food that meets your needs. 6\. Can I bring alcohol? Yes — alcohol may be consumed responsibly in line with campsite rules and community expectations. 7\. Are pets allowed? No. Dogs and other pets are not permitted at this event. 8\. Will I get the exact location after booking? Yes. Exact campsite location will be shared with confirmed ticket holders for safety and privacy. 9\. What should I bring? Bring your own camping gear, food and drinks, a camp chair, warm layers, and a torch or headlamp. More details will be shared via email closer to the event.

***NOTE: NOT RECOMMENDED FOR INEXPERIENCED HIKERS.*** Come enjoy a day filled with fresh air, great views, and friendly company as we hike **Sugarloaf Mountain!** This hike is all about enjoying the outdoors, getting some exercise, making new friends, and sharing a memorable experience with a great group of people. We’ll meet at the **West View Parking Lot** (check the map pin for the exact location) and head out on a **5.4-mile loop** that will take about **3 hours**. The hike follows the Blue Loop trail, to White Rock, where we’ll pause to take in the stunning views, snap some photos, and catch our breath. After the hike, join us for a casual meetup at **Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard**. Feel free to bring your own food, but there's usually a food truck on premises. Please remember that outside alcohol is not allowed, but the vineyard offers wine by the glass for purchase. It’s the perfect way to relax, enjoy good conversation, and toast to a fantastic day spent outdoors. We’re excited to have you join us! Be sure to wear your hiking shoes, bring water, and pack your positive energy. Let’s make this a fun and refreshing fall day together! **Meeting Time & Location:** We’ll meet at **9:30 AM** at the Sugarloaf Mountain West View Parking Lot. Look for us by the picnic tables near the trailhead. **Distance:** 5.4 miles **Elevation Gain:** 1,063 feet **Difficulty:** Intermediate / Advanced Hike This hike is rated Intermediate to Advanced based on it's moderate inclines / elevation changes. There are no stream crossings or rock scrambles. **Estimated Duration** This hike is expected to take approximately 3 hours. **Pace:** Moderate Pace We'll walk 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** We’ll park at the **West View Parking Lot**, which has plenty of spaces available and is a convenient starting point for our hike. Please refer to the event map to locate the correct parking area. Do not park at the East View Parking Area, which is the first parking area you’ll pass. **Trail Map (AllTrails)** [Take a Hike! (DMV) - Sugarloaf Mountain](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/map-april-11-2025-367147f?u=i&sh=mdqqtd) Preview the hiking route on AllTrails to get familiar with the terrain. Download the map in advance to follow along and stay on track during the hike. **Restrooms** There are a couple of porta-potties located at the trailhead for your convenience. Be sure to plan accordingly, as these are the only restroom facilities available on this hike. **Lunch After the Hike** Join us after the hike, for a relaxed lunch at the ***[Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard](https://www.smvwinery.com),*** *[18125 Comus Rd, Dickerson, MD 20842](https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=f71cbf26ae99198622b7ba5f47ae7aad1a0b204a683794057a007958f4a2895dJmltdHM9MTc3NDkxNTIwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=108cd8d6-7e8f-6b13-174d-ce097fb86ad8&u=a1L21hcHM_Jm1lcGk9MH5-RW1iZWRkZWR-QWRkcmVzc19MaW5rJnR5PTE4JnE9U3VnYXJsb2FmJTIwTW91bnRhaW4lMjBWaW5leWFyZCZzcz15cGlkLllOODhEOTZGM0FFQTNENjZDNCZwcG9pcz0zOS4yNTA5Njg5MzMxMDU0N18tNzcuMzc5NDkzNzEzMzc4OV9TdWdhcmxvYWYlMjBNb3VudGFpbiUyMFZpbmV5YXJkX1lOODhEOTZGM0FFQTNENjZDNH4mY3A9MzkuMjUwOTY5fi03Ny4zNzk0OTQmdj0yJnNWPTEmRk9STT1NUFNSUEw)* Feel free to bring your own food or simply enjoy a glass of wine with the group. Please note that outside alcohol is not permitted, but the vineyard offers a wonderful selection of wines available for purchase. There are food trucks on site as well. This is a wonderful chance to relax, take in the scenic views, and connect with the group.

During the month of April Juanatán will guide you on a short but beautiful hike at Riverbend Park. This journey of just under 4 miles will take you through varied habitat types with a chance of seeing bluebells in bloom. We will meet at the Vienna South Metro Station at 8:00 AM and carpool to the trailhead. Drive time is about 30 minutes. Please post a comment if you are willing to drive. Carpooling saves the environment and makes friends! ## **Trail Facts** * **Difficulty Level:** Easy * **Length:** 4 Miles * **Duration:** 3 hrs (Including plenty of time for taking pictures.) * **Elevation Gain:** 324 Feet * **Permits:** None. * **Parking:** Vienna South Metro Station (Search for ¨NOVA Trailblazers Carpooling Location¨ on Google Maps.) (Parking is free on weekends.) * **Dogs:** Allowed on a leash at the park. (But not inside the restaurant.) * **Trailhead Coordinates:** 39.01872734604616, -77.24625717031695 * **AllTrails Map**: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-91328d0?u=m&sh=kucj8c **Trail Details:** After using the restrooms we will follow the Potomac Heritage Trail along the river and enjoy the views, potentially seeing Virginia bluebells along the way. We will then pass by Carper's Pond and start following the Bootlegger Trail, which will take us through some wetlands and then a meadow. We will then start making our way back down to the river by following Madison's Escape Trail, Follow the Hollows Trail, and then the Bootlegger Trail once again. After that we will take the Potomac Heritage Trail along the river until we return to the Visitor Center. Afterwards I am planning to stop by Deli Italiano in Great Falls, VA. The address is 9911 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls, VA 22066. **Itinerary:** 8:00 AM: Meet at the Vienna South Metro Station. 8:15 AM: Depart for the trailhead. 9:00 AM: Arrive and begin the hike. 12:00 PM: Finish the hike, drive to Deli Italiano, and eat. 1:30 PM: Depart for the carpooling location. 2:00 PM: Arrive at the Vienna South Metro Station. *(Setting the end time to 3:00 PM to allow time for the unexpected.)* **LIABILITY NOTICE:** Please remember that this group operates under the common adventurer model. We are a group of friends and volunteers organizing trips for fun and shared experience. Participants are expected to be familiar with best hiking practices and choose hikes that align with their physical abilities and experience. Organizers and members are not liable for any injuries, loss, or damage to persons or property arising from group activities. By attending this event, you agree to assume all risks associated with the activity.​ For more information on the common adventurer model, please see [Ron Watters' definition](https://www.ronwatters.com/CADefine.htm).​ If you believe you may be lost during the hike, follow the advice of the [US Forest Service](https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/know-before-you-go/if-you-get-lost).​ See you on the trail! **[Featured Image Source](https://www.funinfairfaxva.com/potomac-hike-bluebells-and-sycamores-at-riverbend-park/)**

Social Sips & Bites family, Memorial Day weekend is calling and we’re bringing everyone together for a fun, relaxed picnic celebration with the SSB crew. Expect great food, sunshine, music, laughter, and that amazing Social Sips & Bites energy we all love. Bring your favorite dish to share with the group and your favorite drinks, and get ready for an afternoon of mingling, new friendships, and good vibes all around. This is the perfect chance to kick off summer with our incredible community. Contribution: $5 to help cover park setup and supplies. Please send a Venmo or Zelle to Judy Cheung before the picnic- by May 22nd. Her Venmo and Zelle infornation is in the sign up link. Her Zelle last four digits is 3353. Come hungry. Come social. Come ready for one of those classic SSB days where strangers become friends and friends become family. There is plenty of parking available and restrooms are also available at the park. Everyone should plan to bring their own beverages, a chair and a blanket if you wish. Please sign up on the link below to contribute help, food, and games. Sign up link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F4BAAA628A7F8C34-62911568-social

**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.

Come out and enjoy hiking amongst the spring flowers blooming along the Potomac this time of the year. We will hike about 6 miles on the Billy Goat Trail section B & section C. Billy Goat Trail section B re-opened this spring after being closes since after a flood in 2018 We will do an 8 loop alternating hiking on the Billy Goat trails and on the towpath, we will be on natural terrain trails, Billy goat trail is pretty rocky with some rock scrambling and stream crossing, C is easier with a 2d stream crossing, the towpath is flat and graveled. Meet: [Carderock North parking lot](https://maps.app.goo.gl/uPXMBmBAx7mTQ7366) At 8:45 am for registration, we will start hiking at 9 am. Bring: Snacks/Lunch, water, hiking shoes for a good grip on the rocks. Hiking poles for the stream crossing if needed. Weather-appropriate clothing. There is a portable toilet on the Carderock north parking lot. For carpooling, the closest metro stations are the ones on the Red line: Friendship Heights, Bethesda, Medical Center, Grosvenor-Strathmore. Arrange for carpool in Meetup Comments, on your own. To participate in this event, you must: 1: Read the liability waiver (officially, the Sierra Club Participation Agreement) http://bit.ly/3Qd4F1B 2: Tap ATTEND at the bottom of this event 3: When prompted, type ’I accept’ to the liability waiver, your first and last name, your contact cell number, and an emergency contact number – Example: I accept, Jane Doe, (703) 555-5555, (301) 666-6666”

Meet new friends and enjoy a **medium/low difficulty hike** at Ball’s Bluff Regional Park! This hike focuses on good conversation and fresh air as we hike through wooded trails, with scenic views of the Potomac River. It’s a perfect way to connect with others who love the outdoors and take in the natural beauty of Leesburg during this 3-hour hike. Ball’s Bluff Regional Park is a hidden gem rich in history and natural beauty. The park features winding forest trails, scenic river views, and quiet spots perfect for taking a break or chatting with fellow hikers. Once the site of a Civil War battle, it’s now a serene place to enjoy nature and experience a peaceful escape just minutes from downtown Leesburg. **Meeting Time & Location:** 9:30 AM at the **Ball's Bluff Regional Park Parking Lot**. **Distance:** 5.34 miles (approximately) **Elevation Gain:** 643 feet **Difficulty:** Moderate Hike This hike features natural trails with moderate difficulty, including some elevation gains. We recommend wearing sturdy hiking shoes to navigate this terrain comfortably. **Estimated Duration:** 3 hours. **Waitlist Policy** To keep things fair, hikers will be moved off the waitlist in this order: **1\. Regular Hikers:** Those who join hikes often get first priority. **2\. Past Hikers:** Next are returning hikers, based on attendance and cancellation history. Frequent cancellations may lower priority. **3\. New Hikers:** New members will be added as space allows. **Age Requirement:** **Children under 18 are not permitted** to ensure a comfortable experience for all participants. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. **Pace:** Moderate. We'll walk 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. **Trail Map:** [Ball's Bluff - 5.34mi loop](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-ball-s-bluff-red-and-orange-loop-0010dae?u=i&sh=mdqqtd) **Restrooms:** Restrooms are not available on this hike. **Lunch After the Hike:** After we wrap up our hike, we invite you to join us for a relaxed lunch together. We'll meet for a casual lunch at **[Vanish Farmwoods Brewery,](https://maps.app.goo.gl/RRviGPewRvUmow46A)** *[42245 Black Hops Lane](https://maps.app.goo.gl/RRviGPewRvUmow46A)* *[Leesburg, VA 20176](https://maps.app.goo.gl/RRviGPewRvUmow46A)*