Camping and RVing

HHH Spring Edition. Does disappearing into the wilderness with a group of strangers put you on edge? Then come to a casual happy hour and get to know us first. This is a great time to meet your fellow outdoor enthusiasts and get connected - without needing to gear up. This time, let's go to DC and check out The Crown & Crow (Logan Circle). 7pm. The Crown & Crow is a massive underground bar with a speakeasy feel. The only signage outside is a gold emblem of a crow with a crown on it's head. Once you see this, follow the stairs down to the bar. Please update your RSVP if your plans change so that we have an accurate headcount. Thanks!

Rose and I are both training for various hikes coming up, so we need to get some good miles and vertical gain in. If you want to suffer with us, please join! The plan is to meet on the later side at Vienna Metro North at 6:30pm on Friday and drive to The Priest Wilderness Parking Area. We will camp near the cars and then hike the Three Ridges loop and then up the Priest for the second night. Conditional on weather not being too crazy, we will hit Spy Rock and then hike down. I am making this trip VMO due to the total elevation gain of >10k feet, but I'll approve members if I've hiked with you before. Splits will be \~19/13. Here's the planned route on CalTopo: https://caltopo.com/m/3PA1V18# Here is the parking location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/5Zv3xUweA1vWJo219 **Waiver**: By RSVPing to this trip or any other DC UL trip, you agree to these guidelines and to DC UL's waiver liability terms ([https://dculbackpacking.com/about/liability-waiver/](https://dculbackpacking.com/about/liability-waiver/)) COVID-19 policy: [https://dculbackpacking.com/about/covid-19-guidelines/](https://dculbackpacking.com/about/covid-19-guidelines/) **Dues**: Members and above, don't forget to pay your annual dues. You can check if you need to pay dues by seeing if the current year is listed next to your name in your DC UL profile. To pay your dues via PayPal, use this link: **[https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/JenniferAdach/15](https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/JenniferAdach/15)** ($10 annual dues plus a $5 suggested donation to City Kids Wilderness Project.) **Carpool**: As per our carpool policy, riders should pay drivers $0.10/mile. I'm anticipating this will be around $30 for riders.

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. Seneca Park has some of the best Bluebell fields in Northern Virginia and they should be in their full glory next week. This is an enjoyable and very accessible \~ 5 mile hike with \~246 feet of elevation gain. We'll start by hiking through a full growth hardwood forest of Elm, Ash Trees, and Tulip Poplars, the tallest deciduous tree in North America. We'll then connect to the Potomac Heritage Trail with its wildflowers and massive Sycamore trees. The hike is a loop with an "out and back" tail. Part of the hike will be along the Patowmack Channel created by a series of islands in the river. We hike at a pace of 2.0 to 2.5 mph while moving. You must have experience with hikes of this length and elevation gain. There are no formal restrooms available at the Park. GPS Coordinates:39.03'00.1"N 77.20'04.3"W for the Trailhead. Dogs are welcome on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicyhttps://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolic](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) Leaders: Steve Frith cell 703-629-0174 Willem Janssen cell 202-280-4307 Park Entry Fee: $0.00 Map for hike: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/seneca-park-blue-bell-hike-d-steve-frith-494c08f?p=-1&sh=iypgzx

Meet in the parking lot of the Handy Bikes Service Center. At the start of each ride, we'll go over introductions to have a sense of participants' cycling experience. Over the course of our rides, we'll address the following: group riding dynamics; safety (ABC check & trail hazards); gear shifting; hill climbing; audible and hand communication within the group, with other trail users, and automobile drivers; what to bring on each ride; etc... Bring your questions, water & a snack. When it starts getting dark earlier, we'll need lights as well. Helmets a MUST. If you can, and especially if you've had issues with your bike, come a bit early to have it looked at ahead of the ride. PS - all levels are welcome to join, however, be mindful that if you are an experienced rider, please be prepared to ride at the pace of the newest rider in the group. Each week, depending on who's in attendance, and participants' riding ability/comfort level, we may do skills practice as a group in the parking lot or at the west end of Wheeler Ave. Once everyone is comfortable, we'll go for a ride on local trails and neighborhood streets and finish back at the shop. Happy Pedaling !! \~Maya

UPDATE - changed from Sunday to Saturday due to weather. Please update RSVPs. Let's explore the stunning vistas of Strickler Knob and Duncan Knob in Virginia's Massanutten Mountains. ## Trail Facts * **Difficulty Level: Strenuous** * **Meeting Location**: Vienna Metro Station​ South * **Meeting Time**: 9:00 AM​ * **Driving Time**: Approximately 2 hours each way​ * **Length:** 9.7 Miles * **Elevation Gain:** 2,152 Feet * **Dogs:** Allowed (with caution - the scramble is not recommended for dogs) * **Trailhead Coordinates:** 38.708202, -78.561530 * **AllTrails Map**: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/strickler-knob-and-duncan-knob-loop **CARPOOL:** If you need a ride or can offer one, please coordinate in the event comments. Be a friend to the environment, save money, and make friends. This trail in the Massanutten Mountains is renowned for its challenging routes and breathtaking panoramic views. The trail features well-marked paths with modest climbs. The highlights of this hike are the out-and-back scrambles to Duncan Knob and Strickler Knob, both offering spectacular views. ​I expect this hike to be moderate, but caution that it can be strenous. **Trail Details:** We will meet at The Vienna Metro station on **Saturday** morning at 9am and drive the trailhead. The drive is about 2 hours. Upon arrival, we'll head towards Duncan Knob and make a short out-and-back hike/scramble to enjoy the view. Afterward, we'll proceed along the trail towards Strickler Knob. The out-and-back hike to Strickler Knob offers 360-degree views of the surrounding area. After returning to the junction, we'll then finish the loop, first descending and then climbing back to the parking area.​ I plan to stop at 2 Silos Brewing Co in Manassas on the way home - address is 9925 Discovery Blvd, Manassas, VA 20109. *Note: Be prepared for varying temperatures; layering is key.* **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!

Alright, I give up. Sunday keeps looking windier and wetter, so I'm switching to Saturday morning at 9:45 instead. I have to be off the water by 11:45 to meet some out of town guests, so we need to shove off promptly at 9:45. It's a huge reservoir though, so you guys are welcome to keep cruising past the put in / take out and get some more miles in. The reservoir is low, so unless we get a solid inch of rain this week, we will head downstream towards the rocky ravine that gives the reservoir its name. If we do get some rain, then we should be able to push upstream into the Patuxent River. The water temperature is still in the brutally cold mid 50's and is still quite dangerous if you fall in. But that's why you always paddle with friends who can lend a rescue assist. Still, you ABSOLUTELY need to be wearing 100% synthetic-fiber clothing and I STRONGLY recommend packing a spare set of clothes in your dry bag. This is event is suitable for kayaks and canoes (but not inflatables). WSSC does not allow paddle boards on their reservoirs and has been getting more serious about enforcement. If you've got a seat attachment for your SUP and can paddle it sitting down, I *think* you're in the clear. As always, you must WEAR, not just carry your life jacket/PFD. **WSSC requires a watershed use permit.** Permits are $6.25 per day or $72 for the year. I heard that they increased the fine for not having one to $100. You can purchase them online at: [https://my.wsscwater.com/selfcare/views/public/login/login.faces](https://my.wsscwater.com/selfcare/views/public/login/login.faces)

Hiking by the lake is so peaceful! Join us for a fun Spring hiking trail tucked away between deep woodland canopies featuring quiet ponds and lakeside views. \*\* You must Register here: https://www.destinationhike.com/events/woodland-lake-hike \*\* Spring is here! What a wonderful time to get out and hike beautiful trails across the DMV! **Once you register, please look for a detailed email from info@destinationhike.com.** \* Excerpt from Destination Hike Waiver\* *Hiking is a recreational activity that has an inherent risk of danger. While hiking I may be exposed to dangers and hazards, not limited to: heat, stroke, dehydration, bee stings, tick bites, snake bites, loss of balance, inclement weather, falling rocks, fatigue, wildlife, negligence of others, drowning, and/or death. Please review full waiver prior to registering for any Destination Hike event.* How to prepare? 1\. Wear comfortable shoes\. If you have hiking boots that would be preferred\. However\, if you have not committed to buying hiking shoes\, wear comfortable tennis shoes\. 2\. Check the weather for the day and dress appropriately\. When you are hiking in the Spring\, you need to pay attention to what the weather may be for that day\. There is always a possibility for rainy weather\. Allergens may be higher\, and there may be more bugs out\. You will want to dress in layers\, so you can take off and put on layers as necessary\. Also\, make sure you wear solid footwear with grips on the bottom\. Hiking boots are strongly encouraged\. Spring can bring wet trails that can be slick if you are not wearing appropriate footwear\. 3\. Bring a small to medium size back pack\. This is to carry any personal items; cell phone\, water\, personal medication\, and any other items you may need\. 4\. Always bring a at ***least*** 1L of water. Make sure you have hydrated the day before, and the day of the hike. 5\. Remember\, there are no bathrooms in nature\, so stay hydrated but make sure you are good to hike without needing a bathroom\. If you do need to use the bathroom\, nature will be your stall\. 6\. Suggested: Download the AllTrails app\. Trail app will be provided in confirmation email\. Any additional questions, comments, or concerns, email info@destinationhike.com

(Trailhead hike) Explore one of the newest state parks in Virginia. The park is located in the picturesque "oxbow" area of the North Shenandoah River. Moderate hikers will cover Hikes include the Eagle's Edge Trail, River Bend Rise Trail, Massanutten Trail, Talus Trail, Reservoir Trail and Gakotta Trail, while long hikers will add a there-and-back on the Massanutten Trail. Est.: 11.5 miles, 2000' elevation, and 8.5 miles, 1500' elevation. Park map. Hike fee: $5. Trailhead: Seven Bends State Park, 2111 S. Hollingsworth Rd. Woodstock, VA, 10:00 AM Driving Directions From Vienna Metro Station to Seven Bends State Park, VA, Hollingsworth Road Entrance 1. Follow I-66 West for around 62 miles. 2. Take exit 1A to merge onto I-81 S toward Roanoke. Follow I-81 South for 17.4 miles. 3. Take exit 283 for VA-42 toward Woodstock. 4. Turn left to go East on VA-42/W Reservoir Rd. 5. Continue straight through the town of Woodstock. 6. In about a mile, turn right onto Hollingsworth Road. Drive across the one lane bridge and turn left to stay on Hollingsworth Road. 7. Continue Hollingsworth Road to Seven Bends State Park entrance. Without traffic, the trip is 1 hour, 20 minutes FIRST-TIME HIKERS If you're a first-time hiker with us, please notify the leaders in advance so they can make sure you have the info you need. Hikers must be able to keep a 2-mph pace. New hikers are required to first complete a moderate hike. **Liability Waiver:** Many of our hikes take place in remote wilderness areas where cell phone service is not available. Any person participating in any Club activity is responsible for their own safety, health and welfare, and must assume all risks and liabilities related to all Club activities. The Club, its hike leaders, hike sweeps, officers, and other representatives are not liable for any injuries, losses, or damage to persons, children, pets, and/or property, arising from any trips or activities of the Club. You are responsible for bringing enough water, food, and first aid supplies, including those for your personal medical conditions. CANCELLATION POLICY To cancel and receive a full bus hike refund, less a $5 processing fee, you must change your RSVP to "No" on Meetup **before NOON on the Friday** before the hike. If you change your RSVP after noon on the Friday before the hike, no refunds will be issued. Cancellations to Metro/carpool/trailhead hikes will not issue a financial refund, but hiker must change their Meetup RSVP to NO so that leaders do not wait for them at the trailhead. COVID PRECAUTIONS Anyone experiencing symptoms of upper respiratory illness should not attend the event. MORE DETAILS -- [SEE THE FAQS ON OUR WEBSITE](http://www.wanderbirds.org/faq.html)

## Pickleball League \| Singles \| 20s\, 30s\, 40s \| Columbus\, OH Ditch the dating apps and meet singles in real life — on the courts for 8 weeks. This event is ALL done through Eventbrite, we must register in advance. [The link is here! ](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/pickleball-but-everyones-single-datecolumbus-tickets-1984560246119?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl) April 13th - June 1st. 6:00PM - 8:00PM. Monday Nights. Whether you’re a seasoned player or brand new, this league is all about connection. 👉 **Never played before?** No problem! For the first **three weeks**, instructors will be on-site for the first 30 minutes to teach you the basics and get you comfortable jumping in. We’ll run this as **open play** — you’ll rotate courts and partners for casual games and maximum mingling. Winners stay for one round before rotating, giving you plenty of chances to meet someone new. 📅 **Mondays\, April 13th \- June 1st \| 6:00–8:00 PM** 📍 **Paddle Taps** \| 535 Lakeview Plaza Blvd\, Worthington\, OH 43085 **⭐ May 4th — Best Dressed Night: Star Wars Edition** *May the Fourth Be With You!* Dust off your Jedi robes, break out the lightsaber, or go full Chewbacca. Come dressed up, bring your A-game, and may the force (and your dinks) be with you. Best dressed winner picked by the volunteer sqaud, Winner will receive a prize! **🍽️ May 25th — Memorial Day BBQ POST PLAY** End your Memorial Day weekend with pickleball and pickleball BBQ! Paddletaps will provide the burgers & hot dogs, you're welcome to bring your fav app or dessert to share with the crew! **What to Know** * Paddles available each week — or bring your own * Locker room on-site * Full restaurant + bar available * Play runs every Monday from 6:00–8:00 PM for 8 weeks * Eat, drink, and mingle during and after play * Tickets are **non-refundable** Ready to meet your pickleball partner (and maybe more)? 🎟[ ](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/pickleball-but-everyones-single-datecolumbus-tickets-1984560246119?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl)**[Sign up now — spots will go fast!](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/pickleball-but-everyones-single-datecolumbus-tickets-1984560246119?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl)** ### Event Guidelines 🚫 No rude or inappropriate behavior 📸 Photos may be taken for promotional use 📵 Be present — phones away, eyes up ✨ Be open, have fun, and enjoy the experience

WQC has weekly Thursday night social nights at the Westerville Java Central. Come and grab a coffee and connect with the community: low stakes, chill environment, and tasty drinks. No registration is required; come as you are.

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