Rock Climbing

**IMPORTANT:** This event is weather relate, if rain is forecast for the event date it will be reschedule. READ whole event details. **Pay to Play - $25 x spot** Send payment using Zelle or Venmo at: Darwin Castillo - 202-848-2436 You will be add to the go list as soon event fee is send. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- If you have ever wondered what outdoor rock climbing is all about this is a great opportunity for you to give it a try...You will be hooked on a new activity and I will be your personal coach, we both will make this happen. The DC Wild Outdoor Adventurers members will be there to help, we fit you in a harness, get you a pair of climbing shoes, and give you all the intel you need to know to get you started in this trilling sport. The clinic itself will show novice climbers the basic skills necessary to safely rock climb and scale rock walls with confidence. Specific items covered in the class: knot craft, harness wear and adjustment, belaying, climbing techniques, and climbing safety. Participants will spend the remainder of the class practicing the skills and climbing. **Clinic hours**: 9:00AM-2:00PM. **Meet at**: Carderock Recreational Area Be on time, you may wont find us as soon we move from the parking lot. The clinic will start promptly at 9:00am and last until about 2:00pm. **Important:** If weather is adverse to our purposes (rain) event will be reschedule. **What to bring:** We are climbing through lunch time, so make sure you bring plenty of water, snacks, and lunch to keep you going, bug spray maybe necessary **What to wear:** Look at the weather conditions the day prior to the event and wear accordingly. **Equipment**:: All equipment (Helmets, harness, climbing shoes, ropes, etc.) will be provided. **Where to meet**: Carderock Rock climbers parking, as soon you crosse the bridge go right to the last parking lot. **Google maps**: https://maps.app.goo.gl/f6rWprhNQK3Lwy2e6 **GPS coordinates**: 38.976094, -77.205624 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Climbing is a dangerous sport and serious injury may and can happen You are solely and completely responsible for choosing outings and activities that are within your physical and medical ability level, for taking proper clothing, provisions, and equipment along on outings to provide for your personal comfort and for making appropriate decisions to ensure your very own safety. By reserving and or participating in any of our activities you have agree to all the term stated on our Liability waiver: [https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hgXQ3bWkQqli5zQuYWmluK8I_pQ9IE2q/view?usp=sharing](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hgXQ3bWkQqli5zQuYWmluK8I_pQ9IE2q/view?usp=sharing)

Alright people, it's 2026. Let's start the hiking season off with an easier classic - Raven Rocks. Raven Rocks is a short out-and-back section of the AT that ends with a stunning view. The terrain is very rocky (wear good shoes), but this hike should be relatively quick. Wear layers as the temps can change quickly this time of year. We will meet at Vienna Metro at 9AM and carpool to the trailhead. Drive time is about 45 mins - Please post a comment below if you are willing to drive. Carpooling saves the environment and makes friends. ## **Trail Facts** * **Difficulty Level:** Moderate * **Length:** 5.7 Miles * **Duration:** 4 hrs * **Elevation Gain:** 1,535 Feet * **Permits:** No * **Parking:** Vienna Metro Station South * **Dogs:** Allowed * **Trailhead Coordinates:** 39.116468, -77.852405 * **AllTrails Map**: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/raven-rocks-via-appalachian-trail **Trail Details:** This out-and-back hike is considered moderate, but some locals call it "the rollercoaster" due to it winding up and down over several ridges. The view from Raven Rocks is spectacular and worth going uphill both ways. Dogs are allowed on this trail (please use a leash). A note on parking - If you plan to be one of the drivers, the parking at the trailhead is very limited. If the lot at the trailhead is full, there is a large commuter lot across VA 7. Do **not** park along Pine Rd (road that leads to the trailhead lot) as it is very likely you will be towed. On the way back, I plan to stop at Lark Brewing Co in Aldie, VA. The address is 24205 James Monroe Hwy, Aldie, VA 20105. **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!

Come check out two of our favorite DCR alumni bands, The Redactions (classic rock) and the Seattle Sound System (90s and 2000s rock) at Tommy Joe's on March 14th. Admission is free, the food is great, and the bands are awesome. If you're interested in playing future gigs, please email ericSeisler@gmail.com.[The Redactions](https://www.instagram.com/the_redactions/)

We’ll do a circuit hike of 15.5 or 21.7 miles (you choose) along two of the prettiest Maryland suburban-DC stream valleys—**Northwest Branch** and **Sligo Creek**. The short version of the hike is difficult and the long version is difficult-er. We will proceed as a group for the first seven miles of both hikes, after which, you may hike at your own pace. This unusual, suburban wilderness hike will take you over natural-surface and paved trails, as well as a few stretches of sidewalk. The hike even includes some rock scrambling and sandy beaches, all with gentle elevation changes. Mud and/or ice on the trails have been known to occur. **[Photo albums](https://sites.google.com/view/wandering-soles/one-day-hike/training-hikes/nw-branchsligo-creek)** of previous versions of this hike. **MAPS & ROUTE NOTES:** See this **[folder](https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/13eoxioeq8uOAtpDM_TXJUqo2stk666pw?usp=sharing)** for hike handouts that include directions, route notes & maps, GPX files, and area information. You should download or print these, especially if you are unfamiliar with the routes. There are also Google Maps for the **[short](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=15lpfn2zbNWAbn0xta7q6K09xcIJBnC13&usp=share_link)** and the **[long](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=18SCpVfB2yLTiN9cJfqCgc4RH6E8ZNih-&usp=share_link)** hikes, to follow along on your phone's Google Maps app as you're walking. **WHEN & WHERE:** We’ll meet 8:30 AM at Wheaton Regional Park, in the parking lot in the lobby of the **[Ice Arena](https://bit.ly/4kvcRrB)**. Note that the park entrance for this location is at Orebaugh Avenue, off Arcola Avenue. Contact Mike (Mike.Darzi@Gmail.com) for a pick-up at a nearby Metro station. **WHAT TO BRING:** Bring food and drink (short hike, 2 qts; long hike, 3 qts); short hikers may also buy food along the way. You’ll proceed at your own pace and you may stop (or not) anytime to eat. This hike occurs rain or shine, cold or warm, so dress appropriately. However, in case of hazardous weather, please check here for last-minute changes before leaving for the hike. **LEADERS:** Mike Darzi (Mike.Darzi@Gmail.com) & Sean McCartney (SeanEMcCartney@Gmail.com) **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. **ONE DAY HIKE** Although open to all, this training hike is part of a series of Saturday training hikes leading up to the **[One Day Hike](https://www.meetup.com/sierrapotomac/events/312467688/)** (ODH)—100 or 50 km along the C&O Canal—on May 2, 2026. See SCPRO’s **[Meetup page](https://www.meetup.com/sierrapotomac/)** for other training hikes as they are posted. If you would like to support the ODH, see **[volunteering opportunities](https://www.meetup.com/sierrapotomac/events/312467618/)** and/or contact Mike Darzi (Mike.Darzi@Gmail.com). For official updates regarding training hikes, registration, and other information, join the ODH discussion group by sending a blank email to OneDayHike+Subscribe@Groups.io

Let's continue exploring the historic lockhouses along the C&O Canal, this time staying in a primitive one -- Pennyfield Lock, located by Lock 22. As this is a primitive lockhouse there are NO modern amenities (running water, electricity, heat, or kitchen), and so you will need to bring everything you need to stay comfortable during this one-night stay. We can enjoy some easy hikes along the towpath and through the nearby Blockhouse Point Conservation Park during our visit. Due to the location of the lockhouse, a carpooling spot has not been established. A WhatsApp group will be created closer to the event and will be used to coordinate rides and other event logistics. We will plan to meet at the lockhouse at 11:00 AM on Saturday morning. ## **Trail Facts** * **Difficulty Level:** Moderate * **Length:** 14.2 Miles * **Duration:** 4.5-5.5 hrs * **Elevation Gain:** 506 Feet * **Permits:** Juanatán will provide overnight parking permits to drivers. * **Parking:** Carpooling will be coordinated via WhatsApp. * **Dogs:** Not allowed inside the lockhouse, sorry. * **Trailhead Coordinates:** 39.05497688136813, -77.29032396969912 * **AllTrails Maps**: * https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-af4793c?u=i&sh=kucj8c * https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-9e94313?u=i&sh=kucj8c **Trail Details:** We will arrive at the parking lot near the lockhouse at 11:00 AM on Saturday morning. We won't be able to check in, so we will go on a hike to Seneca Quarry, where we can explore some old structures that used to be part of the canal system. We will take a slightly different route back through Blockhouse Point Conservation Park. By then we will be ready to check in to the lockhouse. Everyone will need to carry their gear 0.1 miles from the parking lot to the lockhouse. There is no kitchen inside and no running water, so keep that in mind when planning dinner. We can all relax, perhaps play some games, and check out the lockhouse. Closer to nightfall we will go on a short 3-mile hike to Swains Lock where we can enjoy a nice view of the sunset. We will then hike 3 miles back in the dark to the lockhouse and perhaps play games or enjoy a fire before bed. The next morning everyone is on their own for breakfast. Keep in mind that we need to clean up and be out of the lockhouse no later than 10:00 AM. The maximum capacity of the lockhouse is eight people. Depending on who signs up it may be necessary to rearrange the provided trundle beds or bring sleeping pads so we can spread out and make sure everyone has a comfortable sleeping arrangement. You can learn more about the lockhouse [here](https://www.canaltrust.org/lockhouse-22/). Since this is a rustic lockhouse, I will only need $10 from each participant to cover the cost of the reservation. I accept PayPal, Venmo, and cash. :) I'm looking forward to this relaxing trip. Please let me know if you have any questions. **Saturday Itinerary:** * 11:00 AM: Meet at the trailhead, start hiking. * 3:00 PM: Check into the lockhouse, get set up, eat, play games, etc. * 6:00 PM: Hike to Swains Lock, enjoy the sunset, hike back. * 9:00 PM: Potentially enjoy a fire or simply go to bed. **Sunday Itinerary:** * Everyone can get up whenever they want to, keeping in mind that we need to clean up and check out of the lockhouse no later than 10:00 AM. **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.canaltrust.org/lockhouse-22/)**

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.

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\.

New Start Time: We are moving the clock up! We now meet at 10:00 AM and roll at 10:10 AM. Meeting Spot: With Freedom Plaza still closed for renovation, we are meeting at the entrance to Pershing Park (World War I Memorial) at the corner of Pennsylvania Ave & 14th St NW. This 11-mile loop is a classic. We’ll head through Shaw and LeDroit Park before the big climb up to the Basilica. From there, it’s all about that long, rewarding descent down Rock Creek Church Road, cruising past MacMillan Reservoir and Howard. We’ll finish strong with a run down 17th Street right past the White House. Distance: \~11.2 miles Meet: 10:00 AM @ Pershing Park (14th & Penn) Roll: 10:10 AM The route: [https://onthegomap.com/s/67sa96kv](https://onthegomap.com/s/67sa96kv?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExTjVTVHJTUjUzQ25CTGdubnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR4L1KeWWG8ihcr8L2wv6cBFZXJfo6iso1eGQtrVeV7b2ZxD3-ba7tNKUL0zRg_aem_52rvF-gprHB5e1LwClZ2cA) See you this Sunday!! For up to the minute details, check Facebook and Instagram. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WashingtonAreaRoadskaters/events Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weareskatedc/ We hope to see you soon!

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!

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Crimson Cup Coffee Shop - Clintonville](https://www.crimsoncup.com/about/location/clintonville)!

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.

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

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.