Rail Trails
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out rail trails events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the rail trails events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find rail trails events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Rail Trails Events Today
Join in-person Rail Trails events happening right now
Trail Mix: Worship On The Move
Trail Mix: Worship on the Move SATURDAYS\| 9 AM
Meet @Vine Outdoor Picnic Tables (2501 Gallows Road)
Trail Mix: Worship on the Move is a unique worship experience that invites us beyond the church walls and onto the W&OD Trail to encounter God in the beauty and freedom of the outdoors.
We begin at Vine Church with a warm welcome, gentle stretching, scripture, and a centering thought before walking together to the trail. Like a pilgrimage, this time of walking or running becomes a space for fellowship, reflection, and openness to the gentle surprises of the Holy Spirit moving through creation.
As we journey, worship happens in the quiet noticing: the rhythm of our steps, the sounds of nature, the beauty of the sky. Some may walk, others jog or run. Everyone moves at their own pace, yet we share the trail as one community of faith.
When we return to Vine, we’ll share simple trail snacks (like trail mix or granola bars)—a small but meaningful meal that reminds us Christ nourishes us along the way, wherever our paths may lead.
This is a great service for families (all ages welcome), singles (join a community), people who are neurodiverse, or who feel most connected when they can be alone together—sharing space with others while moving at their own pace, without pressure to talk or engage in traditional ways. The structure is open and spacious, allowing room for silence, prayer, or conversation—whatever feels right to you.
Trail Mix is for everyone: those rooted in church life, those exploring faith for the first time, those who find God best in wide open spaces. Come expecting to move, breathe, pray, and experience the sacred in the world around you.
Questions: Contact [abbytoler@thevineva.org](mailto:abbytoler@thevineva.org)
Lubber Run - Bon Air - Bluemont (Rating: C)
**WAIVER REQUIRED:** 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.
**HIKE:** A 6-mile urban hike will take us through the Lubber Run Park, Bon Air Rose garden, Bluemont and Glen Carlyn parks, and Arlington neighborhood streets. We will be on natural trails for less than a mile; the rest of the time we will be on paved bike trails and sidewalks. We'll have a snack/restroom break part way through. There will be a few hills and some stairs.
Along the way, we'll see a beautiful stream, a large rose garden, and other gardens in bloom.
**WHERE TO MEET:** We will meet \*inside\* the Lubber Run Community Center, near the vending machines/restrooms (there is a large lobby area near the information desk).
There is a garage with free parking (up to 4 hours).
**DISTANCE:** 6 miles
**ELEVATION GAIN:** 400 feet
**PACE:** Our average moving pace will be between 2.5 and 3.0 miles per hour.
**DOGS:** Dogs on a leash are welcome in accordance with NVHC pet policy ([https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy)). (If you plan to have a dog, let me know; we may need to meet you outside.)
Primewise Founders Club Fundraising Event- Washington DC
**Raise funds for your startup directly from leading venture capital investors and** **Join Primewise Founders Club's community where visionary entrepreneurs connect, collaborate and create magic together.**
**Primewise Founders Club**, in collaboration with **a leading Venture Capital Firm**, presents an exclusive VC Connect Session – a high-impact opportunity for early-stage founders to pitch directly to active venture capital investors.
This closed-door virtual event brings together selected founders and investors in a focused setting designed to foster meaningful connections, investor feedback, and potential funding opportunities across USA.
If you’re building a scalable technology venture or an innovative business model, this is your chance to showcase your vision to leading investors and industry experts.
Register Now: https://thepfclub.com/vc-connect-registration/
[Filling the form is a must]
**What Makes This Special:**
* Pitch directly to VC: Pitch your startup directly to VC and investors
* Strategic partnerships: Collaborate with fellow founders on new ventures.
* Scaling discussions: Exchange ideas on growth and market expansion.
* Investment opportunities: Be the first to discover promising startups.
* Expand your influence while contributing to the startup ecosystem.
* A supportive community: Celebrate wins and overcome challenges together.
**VC event:** Invite-only access - details will be shared for shortlisted founders
**Date**: 27th June, 2026
**Time**: 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM (EDT)
**Format**: Online
**Join Our Ecosystem:**
1\. Register for the event
2\. Join our LinkedIn community
3\. Get access to our exclusive WhatsApp group
4\. Connect with fellow members
5\. Start growing together\!
Contact Us:
Website: [[https://thepfclub.com/](https://thepfclub.com/)]
Email: [[event@thepfclub.com](http://event@thepfclub.com/)]
LinkedIn: [https://www.linkedin.com/company/primewise-founders-club/]
To your entrepreneurial success,
Primewise Founders Club Team
Kingman and Heritage Islands hike
Explore the flora and fauna of two dredge islands in the Anacostia River, linked from the mainland by a boardwalk across Kingman Lake. The trails out and back are approximately 3 miles of easy if sometimes muddy terrain. We'll discuss history of the islands, ecological management, and DC's draft wildlife management plan. Great for birding and other critters, and possibly river otters.
Bring hiking shoes, water, tick repellent, and weather appropriate attire.
We will meet at the SE corner of RFK lot #6, nearest the entrance to the Park. It is possible to park at that location. Additional directions for metro, bus and bike here: https://www.kingmanisland.com/visit
A voluntary $2 donation in exact change is requested to help support the Sierra Club outings program. The event will cancel if there is a steady rain.
Tag Sale at RBH
Come browse thru our overstock inventory! We will have refurbished bikes for sale, including hybrids, mountain bikes, beach cruisers, kids bikes, vintage road bikes and a special tandem bike. We also have gentle-used bicycle parts and accessories such as training wheels, car racks, hitch racks, bike locks, trainers, wheels, rims, frames, bike clothing and other gear. You never know what you can find!
We have as-is bikes that need some work or a tune-up that are not quite ready for riding. But perfect if you want a project to work on!
Come find out what we do as a local community bike shop and how you can volunteer with us.
All proceeds will benefit future RBH programming, including the TERRIFIC Kids bicycle award program in partnership with the City of Rockville, and the purchase of parts, tools and kids helmets.
Cash, checks, credit cards, PayPal and Venmo will be accepted onsite.
Spread the word to potential shoppers and bicycle enthusiasts!
Rail Trails Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Sundays In The Park series
We meet on Sundays at 8 a.m. for training runs on some of DC's best trails, including Rock Creek Park and the surrounding area. We typically meet at either Peirce Mill in Rock Creek Park, or Roosevelt Island, depending on the route.
Details of the weekly schedule can be found here: https://new.vhtrc.org/runs/sip
We hope you can join us for a run! All paces and levels of trail experience are welcome for these runs, which range in distance from 6 to 9 miles.
Anacostia Trail
Let's get outside on the Anacostia Trail! We'll meet at the Poplar Point parking lot and walk up the trail and back (about 5-6 miles).
Please check the weather and dress comfortably. Bring water and a snack if needed. Look forward to seeing you there!
Hiking Rock Creek Park from Dupont Circle to Silver Spring
Next Sunday the 28th we’ll walk from the Dupont Circle Metro Q Street exit west to the Rock Creek Park Trail, where we will proceed northbound to Peirce Mill, where restrooms and water will be available. We will then proceed northbound on the Valley Trail (a dirt trail) to West Beach Drive and use that to access North Portal Drive. At 16th Street we will walk into Montgomery County and take Colesville Road to 2nd Avenue near the Silver Spring Metro, the official end point for our 9,5 mile hike. Optional beers/pub food will be available at the Silver Branch Lagerhaus & Biergarten at 8401 Georgia Avenue, the corner of 2nd Avenue. Check their website: [https://www.silverbranchbrewing.com/taproom-locations/lagerhaus-biergarten/](https://www.silverbranchbrewing.com/taproom-locations/lagerhaus-biergarten/)
Bring plenty of beverages, good hiking boots, bug spray, sunscreen, and the $5 Adventuring trip fee (cash or Venmo).
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.
Medium Level: Casual Brunch Group - The Peacock Cafe (Georgetown)
**Casual Brunch Group (CBG, get it?): A series of weekend rides with brunch as a feature.** Some rides will be beginner rides (shorter), some will be medium (longer), all will be Casual pace. Bring a bike lock.
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**The Ride: Summary**
**(Must Read)**
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* RIDE NAME: Casual Brunch Group - The Peacock Cafe (Georgetown)
* START LOC: Shirlington Library
* START GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/y1K7iBorEgsTWBpaA](https://goo.gl/maps/y1K7iBorEgsTWBpaA)
* START PARKING: Any Parking Garage
* ARRIVAL: 9:00am
* SPEECH: 9:15am
* ROLLING: 9:30am
* LEVEL: Medium Level (distance)
* PACE: \~12+mph
* DISTANCE: 16+ miles
* TERRAIN: trail, local streets
* RIDEWITHGPS ROUTE:
CBG_BRUNCH_PEACOCK_CAFE_2024
[https://ridewithgps.com/routes/47928242](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/47928242)
**NOTES:**
* Bring a spare tube.
* Bring water: its HOT
* Bring a bike lock.
* Brunch in the middle of the ride: The Peacock Cafe
* 3251 Prospect St NW, Washington, DC 20007
* https://www.peacockcafe.com/brunch/
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**The Ride: Detail**
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Let's have brunch at The Peacock Cafe. Ride is fairly flat. We leave Shirlington and ride on four mile trail, then north on the Mount Vernon Trail, across the Francis Scott Key Bridge to Georgetown and a few blocks away is our destination, where we will enjoy a leisurely brunch. Then, reverse our journey back to Shirlington (about 3 hours total).
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**The Meeting Spot:**
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Shirlington Library
4200 Campbell Ave
Arlington, VA 22206
GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/y1K7iBorEgsTWBpaA](https://goo.gl/maps/y1K7iBorEgsTWBpaA)
We will meet near the front of the Shirlington Library, next to the construction area.
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**Brunch**
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**The Peacock Cafe**
3251 Prospect St NW, Washington, DC 20007
Washington, DC 20007
[202-625-2740](tel:202-625-2740)
MENU: https://www.peacockcafe.com/brunch/#
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**Ride Level Chart**
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NoVA CBG tries to accommodate all levels of cyclists by offering different types/levels of rides. We just ask that you come to the ride that suits your current riding ability the best.
* Introductory Level: If you haven't ridden a bike in a number of years (or are uncertain of your abilities on a bicycle).
* Beginner Level: You can ride for 10+ miles at a pace of 10+ to 12+ mph with potentially minor hills involved.
* Medium Level: You can ride for 20+ miles at a pace of 13+ to 15+ mph with potentially moderate hills involved.
* Advanced Level: You can ride for 20++ miles at a pace of 15+ mph with potentially major hills involved.
Both Medium and Advanced Levels might require handling various challenges such as reading cue sheets, using a Garmin or navigation app, night riding, out of town travel, or any other odd cycling situations.
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**The Fine Print:**
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An RSVP of 'YES' is your digital signature and means you have read and understood MEETUP.com's:
* "Terms of Service : Section 6. Release" found at https://www.meetup.com/terms/
* NOVA-CBG's "Assumption of Risk Agreement" found @ https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/pages/1942951/NOVA-CBG_Waiver/
* NoVA CBG's "COVID Policy" found @ http://bit.ly/2021_NoVACBG_COVID19_POLICY
Helmets are required to participate in all NOVA-CBG rides. All riders ride at their own risk and with the understanding that cycling is an inherently dangerous activity. When coming to the meetup you do so voluntarily and are ready and able to participate in the ride as described under the conditions of the day. Be on time for the "pre-ride" preparation. If you do not attend the pre-ride preparation you will not be allowed to participate on the ride. There are NO exceptions to the above.
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Sunday Morning Power Hike in Rock Creek Park (Rating:B)
You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, 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.
Distance and Elevation Gain: Approximately 8 miles, 850 feet
Please join me for a brisk hike in the northern section of Rock Creek Park, starting from the visitor center. The trail is mostly dirt, with some roots and rocks, and a few steep inclines. Highlights include plenty of creek views, a few stream crossings, and a five-trunk tulip tree. We'll be looking for any edible berries!
Directions: The hike begins and ends at Rock Creek Nature Center and Planetarium, 5200 Glover Road, N.W., Washington, DC. Meet the group by the building; the center normally opens at 9:00. There is lots of parking by the visitor center.
Hiking Pace: 2.5-3.0 mph average moving pace. We will be hiking as a group; the group will determine the overall pace. You should have prior experience of hikes of a similar distance.
To Bring: Please bring plenty of water, snacks, and sturdy, comfortable footwear. And of course a positive attitude!
Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy: https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy. You must let the hike leader know if you are bringing a dog, and the dog must be kept on a leash.
Take a Hike! @ Difficult Run to Great Falls Park
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!
Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens
The water lilies and lotuses are blooming at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens! Let's explore the gardens and go for a walk on the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail!
❶ **What we'll do:**
* From 9 to 10 am we'll do about 2 miles of unstructured wandering around LBJ Memorial Pond to enjoy and photograph the aquatic plants and the boardwalks to the west. If you arrive later, which is fine, just come on in and join us in the gardens!
* At 10 am, we'll reconvene in front of the Visitor Center and go for a 1.9-mile walk on the Anacostia River and back along the Anacostia River Trail. The River Trail is paved and fairly level.
* The total walk is about 4 miles. We should finish at around 11:30 am.
* Google map: [https://tinyurl.com/kxha6n4a](https://tinyurl.com/kxha6n4a)
❷ **How to get there:**
* The parking lot entrance is located at 4505 Anacostia Avenue NE, Washington D.C. (The official address is 1550 Anacostia Avenue NE, Washington, DC.) From the parking lot, a path through the woods leads to the Visitor Center. The park is accessible by Metro from the Deanwood Metro Stop on the Orange Line.
* For detailed directions, see the NPS web site, [http://www.nps.gov/keaq/planyourvisit/directions.htm](http://www.nps.gov/keaq/planyourvisit/directions.htm)
❸ **What to bring:** Water, comfy shoes, and your furry friend if desired (leashes please). Insect repellent, sunscreen, and maybe an umbrella are recommended. A camera is a handy accessory.
❹ **Weather:** The forecast is partly cloudy and a high of 88F, with a 24% chance of showers at start, falling to 14% by noon. Light NW winds. Updates: [https://tinyurl.com/mrtd3muc](https://tinyurl.com/mrtd3muc)
❺ **Advisory:** As a reminder, this is an adult group, and you are ultimately responsible for your own safety and well-being during events. No one under 18 years of age is allowed at this event, either as members or as guests, to include babies in carriers and/or strollers.
❻ **Administrative stuff:** There are restrooms and drinking fountains at the Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens Visitor Center.
❼ **Notes:**
* "Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens," Official National Park Service Website, [http://www.nps.gov/keaq/index.htm](http://www.nps.gov/keaq/index.htm)
Rail Trails Events Near You
Connect with your local Rail Trails community
Alum Creek Trail Hike
Join us for a 2.4 mile hike along the Alum Creek Trail south from Casto park to Strawberry Farms park and back. This is a fully paved flat trail along Alum Creek. Come and enjoy a great hike with us!
Hike Scioto Audubon Trail with optional lunch at Nocterra
**Hike the Scioto Audubon trail. All paved and flat!**
**Plan on 3-4 miles. Hike at your own pace, no one left behind.**
**Lunch after at Nocterra for those who wish.**
Rays Of Light Spiritualist Church Service
Rev. Steven Clevenger is an ordained spiritualist minister with over 40 years experience as a Spiritual Healer, Clairvoyant and Spiritual Teacher, educated and trained at the White Lily Chapel.
Rev. Siobhan Wolf Shaffer is an ordained spiritualist minister and certified medium and healer with over 20 years experience. She began her development in 1988 in Pennsylvania and continued when she moved to Ohio in 1998 where she studied at Rays of Lights Church with Rev. Steven Clevenger.
Our full worship services consist of an inspirational lecture, healing meditation, and messages from the spirit world that serve to demonstrate evidence of eternal life.
Please visit our Official Church Website (http://raysoflightchurch.com) for more information.
Late Sunday morning walk at the Quarry Metro Park Trails
Join the Introverts of Columbus at Quarry Trails Metro Park for an afternoon walk in the Park. We'll meet near the parking lot area for about 15 minutes before heading out to chat and hike through the metro park.
This will be a casually paced walk to allow people to get to know each other, and enjoy nature at the same time.
🚨🚨 Please note that there are multiple parking areas for the Quarry Trails Park, and please note the address in the event to get to the correct starting area! 🚨🚨




















