Outdoors

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. **Meetup date/time**: January 19 at **7:45 a.m.** (carpool location) or **8:45 a.m.** (trailhead location) **Distance and Elevation Gain**: Approximately 10 miles and 2.200 feet. You should have prior, recent experience with "A" level hikes. **Description**: This is a circuit on Massanutten Mountain in the George Washington & Jefferson National Forests. The hike is predominantly on the Massanutten (orange blazed) and Tuscarora (blue blazed) trails, and includes great views from Buzzard Rock Overlook, Fort Valley Overlook, and Signal Knob. Signal Knob's historical significance stems from its use as a lookout point during the Civil War by both the Confederate and Union troops. We hike at a pace of \~2.5 mph while moving, slightly slower on the uphills and slightly faster on the downhills. **Carpooling**: For those wishing to carpool, the suggested carpool location is at the Centreville P&R (**[38.836080, -77.455327](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Centreville+Park+%26+Ride/@38.8359338,-77.4575166,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x89b6449119065775:0x3d3e139d818567f2!8m2!3d38.8359296!4d-77.4553279))**. The driving time from there to the trailhead is about 1 hour. **Please arrive at the Park and Ride by 7:35 AM.** Neither the Club nor the hike leader is responsible for coordinating transportation to/from the trailhead. Hikers are not guaranteed a ride to the trailhead from the carpool location; carpooling is organized by the participants and they participate at their own risk. Suggested carpool fee is $7. ***The hike leader will NOT be at the carpool location.*** **Trailhead:** Please arrive at the trailhead by **8:45 a.m.** for a 9:00 a.m. start at the Signal Knob Trailhead Parking Lot on Fort Valley Rd, Fort Valley, VA 22652 **[(GPS: 38.934984, -78.319957)](https://www.google.com/maps/place/38%C2%B056'05.9%22N+78%C2%B019'11.9%22W/@38.9326718,-78.3159012,14.75z/data=!4m4!3m3!8m2!3d38.934984!4d-78.319957?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDEwNy4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D).** **Dogs** are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) **Leader:** John H **Park Entry Fee:** $0.00 **Rating:** A **Hiking Map:** https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/signal-knob-loop-trail-fb4c835-2

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. **10 mile circuit hike with about 650 feet of elevation gain.** ***Join us for a scenic hike on this Martin Luther King, Jr. birthday along the C&O Canal towpath and the forest trails of Blockhouse Point Conservation Park.*** **Description:** Starting from Lock 22 Pennyfield Lock parking lot off of River Road we will hike on the C&O Canal towpath. We will then hike to Violette's Lock and on to Riley's Lock where we'll cross the Seneca Creek Aqueduct and take a short side trip to the Seneca Mill & Quarry Ruins. We'll retrace our steps and take a lunch/snack break at Riley's Lock before heading back to Violette's Lock where we will make our way into Blockhouse Point Park. We will take several trails in the forest and stop at a couple of overlooks of the Potomac and Canal Towpath on our way back to the parking lot to complete the circuit. This is a B hike due to the mileage, but most of the hike is level. There is one short but somewhat steep hill going up into the forest. You might want to bring hiking poles if you normally use them on hills. The overlooks are short out and backs and descend slightly from the forest area. **These rocky overlooks offer great views of the Potomac!** The pace will be about 2.5 mph. There are porta-johns at the locks. **Bring**: Adequate water/hydration, snacks/lunch, and sturdy hiking shoes since there are some rocky areas and tree roots with a lot of leaf coverage on the ground. There is one small stream that is easily stepped across. **Fee:** There is no park fee. **Dogs are welcom**e. NVHC Dog policy: [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) Meet at the trailhead parking lot 15 minutes early to allow everyone to sign in and get ready to hike at 9:00am. **Blockhouse Point Park**: [https://montgomeryparks.org/parks-and-trails/blockhouse-point-conservation-park-trails/](https://montgomeryparks.org/parks-and-trails/blockhouse-point-conservation-park-trails/) **C&O Canal Pennyfield, Violette's, and Riley's Locks:** [https://birdersguidemddc.org/site/co-canal-pennyfield-violettes-rileys-locks/](https://birdersguidemddc.org/site/co-canal-pennyfield-violettes-rileys-locks/) **C&O Canal Pennyfield Lock:** [https://www.canaltrust.org/pyv/lock-22-parking/](https://www.canaltrust.org/pyv/lock-22-parking/) **Meeting Place Instructions:** We will meet at Pennyfield Lock, Lock 22 parking area on Pennyfield Lock Road. **GPS 39.053641, -77.288893**. See attached directions in the link. After turning onto River Road west from I-495, **Pennyfield Lock Road** is about 8.5 miles on your left. Keep your eyes open and look for the sign for the turnoff onto Pennyfield Rd intersection. Proceed to the end of Pennyfield Road. I will be in a white Nissan SUV with the rear hatch open. **Post hike rehydration TBD.** If you have questions, please message me here or call/text me at 202-528-0456. If you text me, please include your name.

Let’s get outside and explore the beautiful Great Falls Park. **No Fees ** We’ll take in the stunning river views, walk the scenic trails together, and afterwards head to a nearby spot for our signature sips and bites. The Plan • What: Group Hike + Lunch • Where: Riverbend Park , McLean (about 15 miles from D.C.) • Hike: 12:00 PM • Lunch: Right after at Kalypso's Sports Tavern Looking forward to a fun and refreshing day outdoors!

Climbers of all skill levels are welcome! To join us: 1. Complete the [participant agreement](https://movementgyms.com/participant-agreement/). 2. Pass the belay check, which can be done the same day. See [FAQs](https://movementgyms.com/first-visit/#faqs) for more info. 3. Pay for [gym membership or day pass](https://movementgyms.com/memberships-passes/). The event itself is run by volunteer organizers free of charge. If you are interested but have never belayed before, please take the [Introduction to Rope Climbing](https://movementgyms.com/rockville/calendar/#activity=climbing&location=rockville&class-type=intro-series&area-of-focus=safety-and-belaying) class first. We'd love to climb with you as soon as you know how to belay safely using a GriGri. To find us, go past the front desk and turn left. We'll gather by the fitness room entrance. If you need a refresher on knot tying and/or belaying, please post in comments or message the host and we'll be happy to help. We normally top rope in groups of 2-3 people, but some are also happy to lead. Post in comments or ask on the spot if you are interested in leading.

Whether you’re joining us for the hike at Riverbend Park or just want to meet up afterwards, come enjoy a relaxed lunch with great company. It’s a perfect chance to connect, hang out, and unwind together. When: Right after the hike (around 2:30 PM) Who: Open to everyone - hikers and non-hikers! Come for the hike, the lunch, or both. We’d love to see you there!

Meet in front of Copper Canyon by the benches.
We'll do anywhere from 3-5 laps. It's .75 miles around and we usually do 3/4 laps. For safety reasons, we’re going to keep the group to two small groups of eight members each. Sometimes it get crowded there so we don’t want to have any mishaps. 
Afterwards, if we like the group will decide where to grab a bite to eat at one of the local restaurants at the RIO. If you happen to be late, walk, counterclockwise around the lake and you should see us walking

Help us celebrate the **Sierra Club’s Potomac Region Outings** **(SCPRO)** and usher in a new year of outdoor activities by joining us at this (indoor) winter potluck party. The party is open to all—outings participants (past, current, or future) and leaders (past, current, or future), as well family, friends, and curious onlookers—so feel free to invite others. Special guests are our long-term leaders whom we recognize with sincere appreciation for their volunteer service to the Club. They have helped introduce thousands of people to the outdoors and then helped them enjoy it for many more years! Photo albums of other SCPRO [socials](https://sites.google.com/view/wandering-soles/special-events/scpro-socials). **FOOD & DRINKS** You are invited to bring food (prepared or bought by you) to share—a main dish, side dish or salad, or appetizer. The food you bring should reflect your family's heritage so that we end up with international fare. (Don't forget serving utensils.) Please DO NOT bring desserts, chips, nuts, dips, and other snacks. If you can’t, don’t want to, or forget to make a dish, don’t let that stop you from coming as there is sure to be more than enough food! We will provide fruit snacks, dessert, water/soft drinks, and plastic/paper ware. To save a little bit of the world, please bring your own washable plates, cups, and eating utensils. A $5 cash voluntary donation per person to cover the cost of the event is welcomed, but not required. **WHEN & WHERE** Sunday, January 25, 2026, 5:30-8 pm, Bethesda Club Room, White Flint Station Condos, 11800 Old Georgetown Road, North Bethesda, MD ([GoogleMaps](http://goo.gl/yZLGhb)). The entrance is at the NE corner of the Chapman Avenue and Old Georgetown Road "T" junction (see photos below), and the room is on your right just after entering. **Metro:** The location is one block north of, or 0.4 miles from, the Red Line’s North Bethesda Metro station, 5679 Marinelli Rd ([GoogleMaps](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/39.0474399,-77.1125592/39.0500145,-77.110907/@39.0486043,-77.1132003,555m/am=t/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m2!4m1!3e2?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTExMC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D)). **Parking:** Street meter parking is free on weekends (see photo below). There is a Metro parking garage (5627 Marinelli Rd, but entrance on Citadel Ave.; [GoogleMaps](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/39.0479932,-77.1094668/11800+Old+Georgetown+Road,+Rockville,+MD/@39.0491272,-77.1127684,1111m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m9!4m8!1m0!1m5!1m1!1s0x89b7cc2f1db815fd:0x8a0308c08227de73!2m2!1d-77.1108517!2d39.0502507!3e2?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTExMC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D)) that is also free on weekends, and a commercial garage at Pike & Rose (11580 Old Georgetown Rd; [GoogleMaps](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/39.0489289,-77.1180482/39.0500176,-77.1109542/@39.0489563,-77.115838,931m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m2!4m1!3e2?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTExMC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D)). Each garage is about 0.3 miles away. **SIERRA CLUB** You may join the Sierra Club by clicking the "JOIN" button at the top of the Virginia Chapter’s [website](http://www.sierraclub.org/virginia). Membership is not required for participation. **INFO?** If you have questions about the event, contact Mike (Mike.Darzi@Gmail.com).

*Please join the waitlist if the event is full! Folks will be added manually from the waitlist.* Join us for a pleasant and relatively gentle hike on the Appalachian Trail in Virginia. The highlight of this hike is the David Lesser Shelter, which features a swing, large seating and picnic areas and other minor attractions. The trail has only a moderate amount of elevation. However, we consider this hike moderately challenging due to its length. We’ll move at a steady 2-3 mph pace with a break at the aforementioned Lesser Shelter, which is also our turn-around point. We'll take other quick breaks on the trail as needed. Please carry a minimum of 1 to 1.5L of water with you. Meet time & location: We'll meet at 8:15 am at the East Falls Church (EFC) metro station to consolidate into as few cars as possible given the limited parking at the trailhead. The trailhead is about an hour from EFC. Route: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/west-virginia/appalachian-trail-keys-gap-to-david-lesser-memorial-shelter Brewery (also has food): https://harvestgap.com/ CARPOOLING: We encourage those with cars to be willing to carpool - you're the ones who make LMH great! If you're a driver that is willing to drive, please post a comment on the event page with the following information: (1) Number of seats (2) Meeting location (3) Meeting time As a rider, please comment on the driver's post to take a seat or post in the comments that you need a ride so a driver can find you. Riders are encouraged to help their driver out with the cost of gas. By signing up for this event, you acknowledge and agree that Late Morning Hikers, its volunteer organizers, and drivers who volunteer to carpool are not responsible or liable for accidents, injuries, damage, or losses that may occur while traveling to or from the hike. Late Morning Hikers does not condone or encourage impaired driving. Drivers are expected to follow applicable laws and make responsible transportation choices. We look forward to hiking with you! BACKGROUND INFO ABOUT LMH: Please remember that this group is an informal group of friends and volunteers initiating trips under the common adventurer model ([http://www.ronwatters.com/CADefine.htm](http://www.ronwatters.com/CADefine.html)). We do expect our members to be familiar with the best practices of hiking. This is not a group for first time hikers and is NOT a group for those seeking hiking instruction. We are also not professionals, nor are we trained hike leaders, nor do we scout out hikes. We plan hikes for fun. You are responsible for your own welfare and safety at all LMH events. Be sure to choose to attend hikes only within your own physical abilities and and hiking knowledge; take maps, suitable clothing, provisions (at least two liters of water plus any food or medical supplies you might require) and equipment, and act responsibly and safely at all times. Act responsibly and safely: if you ever believe you may be lost, follow the advice of the US Forest Service ([https://www.fs.fed.us/visit/know-before-you-go/if-you-get-lost](https://www.fs.fed.us/visit/know-before-you-go/if-you-get-lost)) LMH organizers and members shall not be liable for any injuries, loss or damage to persons or property, direct or consequential, arising out of any aspect of LMH activities. By attending this event, you represent that you have read, understand, and agree to the contents of our waiver of liability in the following link ([https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pQ0dedcqlyjc_Aib3TEbTX4gQRQt4C7FeCmsAPyTxd4/edit?tab=t.0](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pQ0dedcqlyjc_Aib3TEbTX4gQRQt4C7FeCmsAPyTxd4/edit?tab=t.0))

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. **9 miles, about 540 feet elevation gain.** **Description:** Join us for a hike along the rolling fields and woods of the scene of the Civil War battle of 2nd Manassas that occurred in 1862. This hike is rich in the history of this battle fought over three days. The battlefield is well maintained with noted significant event information along the way. We will take a side loop to Brawner Farm where Confederate Gen Stonewall Jackson engaged the Union forces of General Gibbon in a precursor to the 2nd Manassas main battle. We will then make our way back to the 2nd Manassas trail and continue on to complete the loop back to our starting point. We will meet at the Visitor Center which has restrooms available. Please plan on arriving at the Visitor Center by 9:15am so we can get everyone signed in an get ready to hike at 9:30. **Meetup Location:** Manassas National Battlefield Park 6511 Sudley Rd., Manassas, VA **Visitor Center parking lot GPS 38.81294, -77.52148** **Dogs** Dogs are welcome on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) Manassas National Battlefield Park website: [https://www.nps.gov/mana/index.htm](https://www.nps.gov/mana/index.htm) **Park Fe**es: None The pace will be about 2.5 mph. Bring at least 2 liters of water/hydration, also snack/lunch, and sturdy hiking shoes since there are some rocky areas and tree roots. Some of the hike is in open field areas. There are no stream crossings, however there may some muddy areas if there has been recent rain. Any questions please message me here or text/call me at 202-528-0456. If you text me, please include your name.

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. This is an enjoyable hike with shaded trails and a sandy beach to take our break on. The hike is \~7,3 miles with \~800 feet of elevation gain in Seneca Regional Park. We'll start by hiking through a beautiful full growth hardwood forest and will then connect to the Potomac Heritage Trail. We'll take our break on a sandy beach. Thanks to Bob G for the photo. We hike at a pace of 2.3 to 2.5 mph while moving. *You must have experience with hikes of this length and elevation gain.* Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicyhttps://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolic](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) Leader: Steve Frith cell 703-629-0174 Park Entry Fee: $0.00 Map for hike: https://www.gaiagps.com/map/?loc=15.0/-77.3190/39.0474&pubLink=obOQ48o079O4P48KYoJBIMa9&trackId=b81b5829-efdf-4bad-bb66-9e9de4a74efd

This hidden jewel of a hike offers lots and lots of winter leg stretching and cardio workout opportunities as it circles around the mountains on the eastern side of Shenandoah National Park's central section. To begin our hike, we'll descend steeply from the Pinnacles Overlook, leaving most of the views behind us as we drop to the park's boundary before climbing upward following a mountain stream. There's winter greenery to jazz up the dull winter mood. Our very strenuous 10.8-mile circuit hike does not offer much in the way of views, but offers plenty of peaceful woods for us to explore. We'll see plentiful mountain laurel, old growth hemlock and wild oak. Along the way, we'll also see remnants of the mountains' former residents and travel on a very rocky forestry road. Elevation gain of this hike is approximately 2800 feet, with a significant portion at the end of the hike. Only well-conditioned and well-prepared hikers should attempt very strenuous hikes. The hike will generally be long and steep, and may include stream crossings and other challenging terrain. Bring plenty of water, snacks, lunch, sturdy footwear, optional headlamp, and about $24 for transportation and trip fees. ($5 for the Adventuring trip fee\*\*, $12 for mileage reimbursement, and a shared portion of the $30/car SNP admission fee. (We can usually cover the Park’s admission fee with those hikers who hold annual park passes.) We'll carpool at 8:00 a.m. from the Kiss & Ride Lot of the East Falls Church Metro Station. We will make our usual pit stop at a Sheetz to stock up on lunch and/or snacks before heading to the trailhead. There may be an optional dinner stop on the way home. RSVPs open 2 weeks before the event. \*\*Please [click here](https://adventuringlgbtq.com/Adventuring_Release_Form.pdf) to review our release form. When you RSVP to an event, you affirm that you have read and agree to the terms of the release.

Join Social Sips & Bites for our Wednesday Happy Hour. Great drinks, easy conversation, new faces, familiar faces, and that signature SSB energy that turns a simple night out into something memorable. https://m.ruthschris.com/home/tysons-corner/7341

Hello Social Sips and Bits Family, Join us for a fun evening of drinks and bites at The Yard House! It's the perfect chance to connect with friends, both old and new, in a relaxed setting. Bring a friend and please RSVP so we can save a spot for you. We can't wait to see you there!

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. This is an 6.5 mile hike with 1000’ elevation gain to Harpers Ferry, West Virginia and is perfect for those that want to experience Maryland Heights without having to do a long hike. We will begin at the Harpers Ferry Train Station parking lot. We will hike the AT and then along the Shenandoah River and then at Appalachian Trail across the Potomac River on the footbridge. Taking a left we go briefly along the C&O Canal before taking the ***steep*** trails up to Maryland Heights for lunch. We hike at a pace of 2.0-2.5 mph when moving. [Rating: C](https://nvhc.com/hikeinfo/ratings/) (Upper level C hike, almost a B) Leader: Ed Brimberg 703-944-9920 (C) Park Entry Fee: $20 or free with National Park pass. Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) Carpools: Arrive at the Dulles Town Center Park and Ride at 7:45am, carpools leav at 8:00am GPS Coordinates: 39.034079, -77.430102, [https://goo.gl/maps/Drvzn7wmu76vnmgR6](https://goo.gl/maps/Drvzn7wmu76vnmgR6) . Suggested carpool fee is $4. ***The leader will be at the carpool location.*** Driving time to the trailhead from the carpool location \~1 hour. If you are going to the trailhead, meet at the Harpers Ferry Train Station at 9:00am, hike starts at 9:15am. A national park pass (leave on car dashboard) or $20 payment upon arrival using a **smartphone and a credit or debit card** via a QR code system. GPS coordinates: 39.324540, -77.731047 [https://goo.gl/maps/yLmDLB9cx44Bkr4z7](https://goo.gl/maps/yLmDLB9cx44Bkr4z7) Neither the Club nor the hike leaders are responsible for coordinating transportation to/from the trailhead. Hikers are not guaranteed to get a ride to the trailhead from the carpool location. Carpooling is organized by the participants and they participate at their own risk. AllTrails Map: [https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-4165db0?u=i&sh=7cs7ov](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-4165db0?u=i&sh=7cs7ov) ***You must be experienced in hikes of this distance and elevation gain.***

Winter calls for a different mountain experience - let's trade in our hiking boots for ski boots and hit the slopes! We will meet at North Bethesda Metro (previously named White Flint) at 8AM and carpool to the resort. Drive time is about 1 hour and 30mins - Please post a comment below if you are willing to drive. Carpooling saves the environment and makes friends. ## **Mountain Facts** * **Terrain Difficulty:** 35% green runs, 40% blue runs, 25% black runs * **Lifts:** 8 * **Trails:** 16, 2 terrain parks * **Highest Elevation:** 1,190 Feet * **Lift Tickets:** Epic Season Pass or Single-Day Lift Ticket: https://www.libertymountainresort.com/plan-your-trip/lift-access/tickets.aspx * **Parking:** North Bethesda Metro Parking Garage **Trip Details:** Let's give Liberty a shot this time. Liberty is a small ski resort, but with a drive less than 2 hours, it's easy to get to the mountain and back home in time for dinner. Liberty is thought of as being more beginner friendly than the nearby Whitetail, but does offer several large terrain parks. This is not designed as a trip to help with ski/snowboard instruction. However, Liberty does offer both lessons and rentals. On the way back, I plan to stop at a hot pot restaurant called Hot Pot Hero in Gaithersburg, MD. Address is 100 Paramount Park Dr, Gaithersburg, MD 20879. **WHAT TO BRING:** * Ski/snowboard gear (rentals available onsite) * Lift ticket or season pass (available onsite) * Warm layers, gloves, and goggles (available onsite) * Helmet - optional (available onsite) * Snacks, water, and electrolytes (available onsite) * Steez **LIFT TICKETS:** You will need to either purchase an Epic Season Pass or single-day lift tickets. The ticket prices vary, but I recommend purchasing them well in advance as they can (and do) sell out. For more info: https://www.libertymountainresort.com/plan-your-trip/lift-access/tickets.aspx **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 snowboarding/skiing practices and choose trails 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 on the mountain, 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 slopes!

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. Join us for winter fun, hiking and ice skating! First time skaters welcome. We will meet next to the Mercury Fountain, which is north of the Ice Rink. From the fountain, we will take the Green Trail to Lake Anne. From there we continue on the Blue Trail and some other paths until we reach Lake Fairfax. We will zigzag through Lake Fairfax Park and we will have a break at Lake Fairfax Park Campground A (excellent facilities). Then we will continue through the Lake Fairfax Park until we make a right turn that will bring us close to the Reston Golf Course. We will hike along the golf course until we hit the W&OD trail at Sallie Mae Drive. Then we will follow the W&OD trail back to Reston, to start part 2 of the fun. The hike is 6 miles with \~400 feet elevation gain. We plan to arrive at the Reston Ice Rink about 11:45am for the ice skating portion of this event, followed by lunch at Makers Union about 1pm. Cost for skating is $11 adults/$9 senior or military plus $8 skate rental. Please only sign up if you are interested in both the hike and ice skating, as space is limited. Thank you. Distance: 6 miles Elevation: 400 ft. Pace: 2.5-3 mph while moving **Coordinates of the meeting place:** 38.958924, -77.356932 **Dogs:** not allowed **Leaders:** Willem Janssen, (202) 280-4397 and Kris N. (618) 623-2484 **Rating:** C **Map for hike:** https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-december-2-2024-9c838d2?u=i&sh=g8n9nn

Hike begins 10 am (eastern) Metup is being glitchy. This 4.9 lollipop loop hike is in the George Washington National Forest. It starts from the Signal Knob parking area off Fort Valley Road near Front Royal, VA. We'll break mid-hike for snack/lunch. Elevation gain is about 900 feet. There are a few intermittent stream crossings depending on previous precipitation. Always good to be prepared for the possibility of wet feet. The trail is rocky in parts. Evergreen mountain laurel lines sections of this pretty trail. We typically hike about 2 mph. However, we leave no one behind and will move at a pace that is comfortable for all. **Hike Route:** https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/tuscarora-bear-wallow-gwnf-abdeb6f **Group Size:** 20 hikers **Time to Meet:** Please meet 15-20 minutes prior to hike start for introductions and liability waiver sign in. If you can't make the hike, please edit your RSVP by 6 pm the night before to open a spot for another hiker. **Meeting Location/Parking:** We will meet at the Signal Knob parking lot, 11621 Fort Valley Rd, Fort Valley, VA 22652 **Facilities:** No restroom is available at the trailhead. **Admission:** Free **Contact Information**: Please use the comments feature for comments and questions. The hike leader is Lisa Peterson. **Cancellation**: In the event that the hike needs to be cancelled, hikers will be notified through comments on this posting. Please check Meetup for updates the evening before the hike. **What to Bring:** Water at least two liters, emergency contact information, personal first aid kit and medications, snacks/meal, sunscreen/protection from weather, insect repellant, trekking poles if you use them (highly recommended for hikes with water crossings), sturdy hiking footwear. Please leave pets at home. Thanks! **Notes:** * RSVP to register for this hike. If your plans change, update your RSVP. * 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). Attendance is limited at the discretion of our hike leaders. PATC rules do not permit children under 18 years to participate in a hike without a parent or guardian present.