Saving the Planet
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Frequently Asked Questions
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VSDC Biking: DC - Bethesda loop
Please join us for Bike Ride looping around DC and Bethesda area.
We will meet new Pierce Mill in Rock Creek park and ride north on Beach Drive. This is a very scenic ride on the road which is mostly closed to vehicular traffic. After crossing over to Maryland, we might switch riding on the Rock Creek Trail if the traffic is heavy on Beach Drive. We will exit the Rock Creek park near Cedar Ln, heading South next to NIH towards Bethesda Downtown. Most of the hard part of the ride should be done by now. In Bethesda we will have a break at Rooted3.
After the break we will take the Capital Crescent trail towards Georgetown. This is downhill so it will be a breeze. In Georgetown we will catch the Rock Creek park trail (again!) to go North towards our starting point.
Meeting point: [Pierce Barn/Mill at Rock Creek Park](https://maps.app.goo.gl/uVWXSL47Ki8AcY7R9)
Meeting time: 7:45am
Route: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/Yj6rEaBgi24XsV9E7](https://maps.app.goo.gl/Yj6rEaBgi24XsV9E7)
Length: 24 miles
Difficulty level: moderate/strenuous
Elevation change: 410 ft up and 413 ft down
Bike time: \~2.5 hours at moderate pace (\~10 mph)
Total time: \~4 hours (including stops).
Biking surface: paved
Route type: mostly paved trails, some roads
Breaks: multiple possible - we can decide en route:
[Rooted 3 at Bethesda](https://www.rooted3.com/)
[South Block at Georgetown](https://www.southblock.com/)
**Metro Accessibility**: Pierce Mill at Rockville park is easily accessible via the Cleveland Park or Van Ness metro stations on Red line
Weather: we will not be riding in rain or windy conditions so stay tuned for Comments on this page.
*For important updates, regularly monitor the "Comments" section on this page (below).*
*Don't be a no show! If your plans change, update your RSVP.*
\*When you sign up to join, you automatically acknowledge
[VSDC Activity Liability Waiver](https://vsdc.org/activity-waiver/).
*Please also view and abide by the RULES listed below*
RULES
* Pets are not allowed
* Use of intoxicants such as alcohol, cigarettes and/or illegal substances is banned during this event.
* Practice safe biking habits including:
* Wearing a bike helmet
* Keeping a safe distance between each other (bikes don't have brake lights and tailgating can easily result in crashes)
* Avoid side by side riding unless the road gives us ample opportunity
By coming to this event, we expect you to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/).
**VSDC: More Than A Meetup**
We are so glad to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we enjoy seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](https://vsdc.org/) is a nonprofit organization with membership benefits?
With VSDC membership, you will save money at area restaurants and businesses, attend VSDC member-only events, and, most importantly, support us as a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle.
The membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Become a member of VSDC](https://vsdc.org/membership/).
**VSDC. Creating communities. For your health, the animals, and the planet.**
INDIA – The Magical Kerala Tour
Start and end in Kochi (Cochin)! With the In-depth Cultural tour The Magical Kerala Tour, you have a 8 days tour package taking you through Kochi (Cochin), India and 4 other destinations in India. The Magical Kerala Tour includes accommodation, an expert guide, meals, transport and more.
Tour Start
Kochi
Tour End
Kochi
Destination
India
Flights
• Arrival: Day01 before 4pm
• Return: Day08 after 2pm
Airport: Cochin Intl. airport (India)
Meeting Point
* The group meets at the arrival airport or at the hotel on Day01.
* More details will be provided via group chat on WhatsApp
Itinerary
Day01
ARRIVAL IN COCHIN
Day02
COCHIN SIGHTSEEING
Day03
COCHIN - MUNNAR (140 KMS / APPROX 04 HRS. DRIVE)
Day04
MUNNAR - THEKKADY (95 KMS / APPROX 04 HRS. DRIVE)
Day05
THEKKADY SIGHTSEEING
Day06
THEKKADY - KUMARAKOM (135 KMS / APPROX 04 HRS. DRIVE)
Day07
KUMARAKOM - ALLEPPEY (35 KMS / APPROX 01 HRS. DRIVE)
Day08
ALLEPPEY - COCHIN DEPARTURE
——————————————————————
For a detailed itinerary and to reserve your seat, follow the link below:
[https://www.bucketlistgrouptravel.com/tour/india-the-magical-kerala-tour/](https://www.bucketlistgrouptravel.com/tour/india-the-magical-kerala-tour/)
Cost:
$2,990 pp
Inclusions
Price Includes
* Accommodation with breakfast for 06 nights.
* Accommodation in the houseboat with all meals for 01 night.
* English speaking guide for sightseeing.
* All breakfasts as well as 1 lunch and 1 dinner
* Kathakali Dance Show in Cochin.
* Spice Plantation Tour in Periyar.
* A Bottle of water per person, every day during your Tour.
* All sightseeing and transfer by private air-conditioned vehicle as per the itinerary
* All Assistance by our representatives on arrival & departure.
* All applicable government tax, toll tax, parking, interstate tax etc.
* Transfer by private air-conditioned vehicle as per the itinerary
Price Excludes
* Flights
* Meals other than mentioned above
* Entrance Fees to monuments/sightseeing places.
* Personal Expenses
* Optional activities
* Travel insurance / Visa
* Tips
Questions?
Text / Call: 2023787696 - Himanshu - Organizer
Mindful Hiking Challenge (July-October)
**🪷**\*\* Cost:\*\* This challenge has a fee. Multiple price options are available.
To participate in this challenge, use this link: [Mindful Hiking Challenge Registration](https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/the-mindful-hiking-challenge-nourish-yourself-nurture-community)
📅 Our challenge runs from July through October
✨ **Description:** What if a walk in nature could nourish your well-being while helping others experience the healing power of the outdoors?
Join Imagine Well Being's Mindful Hiking Challenge and discover how simple acts of presence can create meaningful change- for yourself and for your community.
You'll explore beautiful landscapes, engage in mindfulness practices, and reconnect with the natural world in ways that inspire curiosity, gratitude, and wonder. Whether you hike a mountain trail, wander through a historic landscape, or pause beside a quiet stream, each step becomes an invitation to slow down, notice more deeply, and remember your connection to the living world around you.
To guide your journey, the challenge invites you to explore three distinct types of landscapes:
* **Historic Sites:** *Where we listen to the stories of the land.*
* **National Scenic Trails:** *Where the path guides us back to ourselves.*
* **National Parks:** *Where awe expands our perspective.*
⚙️ **How it Works**
You choose how, when, and where you explore. Complete the challenge at your own pace, and enrich your journey by joining our hosted, in-person community events—from hikes and bike rides to forest bathing, sound baths, and mindful movement.
📖 Participants receive a downloadable mindful hiking guide for each landscape, featuring sensory and creative invitations to explore with curiosity, deepen awareness, and discover what the land has to share.
💖 **The Impact:** A Practice of Reciprocity
Just like a healthy forest relies on an unseen network of roots to thrive, this challenge creates a beautiful cycle of mutual care between you and your community.
🌿 **Nourish Yourself**
Modern life floods us with screens, noise, and constant "doing," leaving us disconnected or overwhelmed. Spending intentional, mindful time in nature lowers stress, boosts immune health, and restores physical energy. Consider this challenge your personal sanctuary—a sacred space to quiet an overactive mind and return to your truest self.
**🤝 Nurture Community**
While you are out on the trail restoring your own spirit, your registration fee and donations ripple outward. Your generosity supports the work of Imagine Well Being, including:
* **Accessible Nature Programs:** Keeping our holistic nature experiences affordable and welcoming to everyone.
* **Community Helper Workshops:** Providing Wellness-in-Nature and stress-relief sessions for local library staff and other community workers.
* **Therapeutic Outreach:** Bringing the healing power of forest therapy directly to residents in assisted living and skilled nursing facilities, as well as adults with developmental disabilities.
**🌐**\*\* Newsletter:\*\* [Sign up Today for Imagine Well Being's latest news, upcoming events, and retreats!](https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/newsletter-form/sign-up-for-the-imagine-well-being-newsletter)
**⭐️ Liability Release:**
With my RSVP, I hereby confirm that I am physically able to participate in this event. I understand and agree that all events, gatherings, and retreats are undertaken at my sole risk and that Imagine Well Being guides and co-directors shall not be liable for injuries or damages to my person or property arising out of or connected to any of these activities.
I authorize Imagine Well Being guides and co-directors to call 911 in the event that I appear to require emergency medical care, and I assume responsibility for all associated costs.
**I have carefully read this agreement and understand its contents. I agree that it is a complete release of liability for any injuries or damage that I may sustain due to Imagine classes, gatherings, and workshops.**
Yoga Therapy: My Body Don't Bend That Way - Therapeutic Yoga
Think you aren't flexible enough for yoga? Afraid to get onto the floor? Living with physical aches or restricted range of motion? Then this is the perfect yoga class for you! Explore your body's strengths in a fun, supportive environment while maintaining and growing your range of motion, flexibility, balance, strength, and sense of peace. All are welcome in this therapeutic class.
Come ready to try new things, laugh, ask questions, and support each other.
**Please reserve your spot at www.piesfitnessyoga.com.** The session is offered both InStudio and OnLine. The Zoom link for the OnLine session will be emailed 15 minutes before class starts to those who are registered at www.piesfitnessyoga.com. **Sign up for sessions must be made at least 2 hours prior to class.**
The address is 1322 Prince St Alexandria, VA 22314.
Our entrance is located on the side of the building, parallel to West St. **Street parking is available and additional parking is located at Shiloh Baptist church, spaces 3,5,7,9**. The church is located across the street from the studio, on the corner of Duke St. and West St.
Discount is available to seniors, teachers, students, emergency responders, and military. All can save by purchasing class packs.
Boomerang 🪃🪃🪃
**The Annual Boomerang Ride is back and ready to deliver another unforgettable day in the saddle!**
**🔥50-Mile Route – Ready to test yourself? Join the big boys and take on the full challenge. - https://ridewithgps.com/routes/36599221**
**🚴40-Mile Route – Prefer a more conservative approach? Enjoy a great ride with plenty of fun and accomplishment along the way. - https://ridewithgps.com/routes/35568591**
**Both routes will have one rest stop at the Royal Farms on on Deal Churchton Road.**
**No matter which route you choose, one thing is certain:**
**The Boomerang never disappoints!**
**Great roads, great riders, and great memories await. So gather your crew, tune up your bike, and get ready to ride.**
**Come catch the Boomerang! 🪃🚴♀️💨**
**Your bike. Your fitness. Your ride. Your Boomerang.**
**This is not an AVS event**
**Cancelled SOJO**(7/4/26)
**There will be no SOJO on July 4 because so many of us are traveling or attending other Semiquincentennial events. Let us know what you'll be doing for the 4th! See you on July 18 in the chapel.**
Here's an alternative event you might like to attend:
https://fourth-july.com/event/we-sing-america-planet-word-celebrates-the-4th-of-july-eid4a7gvaeh0t
July 4th Costume Party
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Saving the Planet Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
July Book Club Meetup: The Anthropocene Reviewed by John Green
Join us for a discussion of ***The Anthropocene Reviewed: Essays on a Human-Centered Planet* by John Green.**
Here's the summary:
The Anthropocene is the current geological age, in which human activity has profoundly shaped the planet and its biodiversity. In this remarkable symphony of essays adapted and expanded from his ground-breaking, critically acclaimed podcast, John Green reviews different facets of the human-centered planet - from the QWERTY keyboard and Halley's Comet to Penguins of Madagascar - on a five-star scale.
Complex and rich with detail, the Anthropocene's reviews have been praised as 'observations that double as exercises in memoiristic empathy', with over 10 million lifetime downloads. John Green's gift for storytelling shines throughout this artfully curated collection about the shared human experience; it includes beloved essays along with six all-new pieces exclusive to the book.
**Let’s meet at Caboose Commons in Fairfax to enjoy some good discussion and meet new friends.**
VSDC Teens & Adults Volunteer Day at Rosie's Farm Sanctuary
Join us for a volunteer day helping the animals at Rosie's Farm Sanctuary in Potomac, MD.
Before attending this event, you must sign a liability waiver. Please use this link [https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/w/b5nky2tonaovjqgjn6ap5p/web/](https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/w/b5nky2tonaovjqgjn6ap5p/web/)
The chores you will be doing are physical. You will be working on big projects that require many volunteers, like removing old bedding, sanitizing stalls, and replacing them with new bedding, along with the daily cleanup chores. Wear boots and clothing you don’t mind getting dirty.
The minimum age for young volunteers is 10 with a parent present.
Feel free to bring a filled water bottle. On sunny days, a brimmed hat and sunglasses may be helpful. Sunscreen is also suggested.
Please do not bring any food or yummy-smelling items on your body or in your bag, as our animals love to eat and are on special diets.
Out of respect for the animals, we do not allow any food with animal products to be consumed at Rosie’s Farm Sanctuary. Please ensure that all edible items are plant-based (no dairy, no cheese, no cow’s milk ice cream, no meat, no fish, no eggs). Thank you for your cooperation and respect for this. It is very important to us.
There is a gift shop where you can browse and warm up during the event.
Please post your pictures and tag Rosie’s Farm Sanctuary and VSDC! Stick around at the end for a group photo behind the barn.
If there is interest, we may go out to eat in one of our local vegan restaurants afterward.
We are limited to 30 volunteers, so please change your RSVP if you cannot attend.
Rosie's Farm Sanctuary is always in need of volunteers. If you want to volunteer with them outside of VSDC's volunteer days, make sure to visit [Rosies Farm Sanctuary ](https://rosiesfarmsanctuary.org/volunteer/) to sign up.
By coming to this event, we expect you to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/).
**VSDC: More Than A Meetup**
We are delighted to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we look forward to seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](https://vsdc.org/%20) is a nonprofit organization with membership benefits?
With VSDC membership, you will save money at area restaurants and businesses, attend VSDC member-only events, and, most importantly, support us as a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle.
The membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Join today](https://vsdc.org/membership/)!
**Ways to Stay In Touch with Us**
Thank you for being part of our Meetup presence and bringing like-minded people together. We invite you to:
* Become a [VSDC member](https://vsdc.org/membership/) to save money at area restaurants and support us in being a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle.
* Sign up for our[ monthly e-newsletter](https://vsdc.org/about/newsletter/) to hear more about our activities.
* Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/vegsocietydc/) or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/vegsocietydc/) to engage with us.
**Interested in Volunteering with VSDC?**
VSDC offers many events each month, thanks to the dedication of our event planning team. Would you consider volunteering? To learn more and get started, [please visit our website](https://vsdc.org/volunteer/).
**Only Vegan Food, Please**
While VSDC welcomes people wherever they are on the path to an all-plant, vegan diet and lifestyle, it is our policy that only vegan food be served and consumed at our events. If you would like to [explore a vegan diet or get support in making lifestyle changes, consider these resources](https://vsdc.org/exploringvegan/).
**Liability Waiver and Code of Conduct**
When you sign up to attend, you automatically acknowledge [VSDC's Liability Waiver](https://vsdc.org/activity-waiver/) and commit to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/).
**VSDC. Creating communities. For your health, the animals, and the planet.**
Chit Chat 聊聊天 at The Roost on Capitol Hill
**NOTE:** This group will be transitioning to a new platform next month.
You can access the new site here: https://luma.com/pa5qj2af.
You can also register below for the July event.
**大家好**!Let's get together and have a casual chat for all levels of Chinese from beginner to native speakers.
大家都欢迎参加我们的聚会!
Please join us on **Sunday, July 5, 2026** at **10 AM** at The Roost on Capitol Hill located at **1401 Pennsylvania Ave SE, Washington, DC 20003**. The Roost is a 2-minute walk from the Potomac Avenue Metro Station (Blue / Orange / Silver). If you live nearby, you can reach this destination by bicycle in 5-10 minutes. The neighborhood near The Roost has free two-hour street parking.
**We will meet in the seating area located behind the bar called "Show of Hands"** (it is located to your left when you enter through the front doors). Table signs will be placed on the tables so that you can easily find us. We encourage you to order coffee or brunch while you enjoy chit chatting with other Chinese speakers and learners. Coffee or brunch can be ordered by using the QR code on the table, and a server will conveniently bring your order to you.
**SAVE THE DATE!**
Below are the expected dates in 2026, but additional dates may also be scheduled:
August 9, 2026
September 13, 2026
October 18, 2026
November 8, 2026
November 29, 2026 - NEW DATE (I'm in China the month of December)
Pro-Animal Meetup
Please be sure to RSVP here! [https://stampede.proanimal.org/events](https://stampede.proanimal.org/events)
This is our one year PAMiversary and the last day to turn in signatures for Initiative 86.
Today will be a celebration that marks one year of community, advocacy, compassion, and standing together in the fight for animal rights. Bring your favorite vegan dish and your appetite.
In the face of so much cruelty to animals, it is hard to take a step back and think of the impact we have had. From major fashion conglomerates dropping fur, to getting a bill to remove foie gras from our city on the ballot, and to getting major grocery chains to get birds out of cages, we have made a massive impact on the world. Today is the day we celebrate all of the work we have done. And look forward to what's next.
Today is also the last day to turn in signatures for initiative 86. Please bring all sheets you have left. After PAM, we could also use some help numbering the sheets and getting them ready to turn in to the Board of Elections. We will be turning them in on Monday.
Join your fellow animal lovers and DC Animal Protection to discuss what’s happening in the animal advocacy scene in DC! This series is a weekly meetup, with guest speakers from all of the major animals rights orgs. We’ll host non-profits such as Pro-Animal Future, International Council for Animal Welfare, DC Voters for Animals, The Humane League, Mercy for Animals and Direct Action Everywhere as well as local grassroots groups like the DC Coalition Against Foie Gras and sanctuaries. We’ll also have special sessions related to health, nutrition and mindfulness!
We encourage anyone who is interested in helping animals to attend- no need to be vegan! Come learn about our rich variety of local activism. With protests, outreach, wheat-pasting, signature collecting, leafletting, lobbying, tabling etc. there’s something to match everyone’s comfort level and skill set.
Coffee, bagels and community will be provided! Feel free to bring any extra treats to share (no animal products please.) Hope to see you soon! :)
Note: Unfortunately, animals are not allowed at our venue. Please leave your furry friends at home.
VSDC LGBTQ+ Lotuses and Lunch
The Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens is a splendid location to enjoy a [picnic](https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/picnic-at-kenilworth.htm) with your fellow LGBTQ+ vegans and veg-curious folks, coordinated by the [Veg Society of DC (VSDC)](vsdc.org).
The gorgeous lotuses and water lilies are blooming and there is always lots of wildlife to spy. There are also a few wooded paths in case the group decides to check those out too.
**To bring:** You will need to bring your own vegan picnic lunch if you feel like joining the group to eat together. You can also feel free to bring vegan snacks to share if you'd like. Remember to bring lots of water and/or other beverages since it's likely to be hot! *Note that no alcohol is allowed in the park.* There are picnic tables but there is no guarantee we will be able to snag one that day so you might want to bring a blanket. You should also bring insect repellant and sunscreen, hat, or other appropriate gear for weather. There are bathrooms and a water fountain at the nature center but they don't have concessions so you'll need to bring everything to the park that you'll need.
The host plans to bring a sketch book and pencil and/or other art supplies and invites her fellow art lovers to bring their own e*n plein air* materials to document some of the beautiful nature we'll see.
Around 1-1:30pm-ish we'll start wandering around the park so you can also skip the picnic and just come then if that works better for you. Just comment on this event page when you arrive and we'll check those before we leave the picnic area to explore the park. And, the host will do her best to post comments throughout the event to track our location, as possible.
If there is light rain that day, the host will still go but probably won't picnic and will just walk around the ponds with an umbrella. If there is heavy rain or lightning, this event will be cancelled and the host will post an urgent message on this event page.
**When:** Sunday, July 5 12pm-3pm
**Location:** Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens (1550 Anacostia Ave. NE, Washington, DC 20019)
**Where to meet:** outside of the visitor's center
**Transportation:** The Aquatic Gardens are a 15-ish minute walk from [Deanwood Metro Station](https://www.wmata.com/ridertools/station/deanwood) on the Orange Line. See detailed directions on the [park website](https://www.nps.gov/keaq/planyourvisit/directions.htm). There is also a parking lot. The park is also accessible by bike on the Anacostia River Trail, which is a lovely ride.
**Cost:** Free
***About the Group***
*Unless noted otherwise, VSDC's LGBTQ+ events are intended for queer/questioning folks who self-identify as LGBTQ+. The events are meant to serve as a safe space to share community with other self-identified queer or questioning LGBTQ+ vegan or vegan-curious people. However, we appreciate our allies and we plan to host "LGBTQ+ & ALLIES" events approximately quarterly - to welcome non-queer allies into our events in order to share community with our fellow vegans/veg curious VSDC participants. If the event is an "& ALLIES" event, it will be clearly identified as such in the name of the event. Any person who participates in an "& ALLIES" event must be supportive of LGBTQ+ persons, their lifestyle, and their gender expression; unsupportive or combative individuals will be removed from events and banned from future VSDC LGBTQ+ events. Please note that any and all questions related to gender/LGBTQ+ issues that may arise during either LGBTQ+ or LGBTQ+ & ALLIES events must be posed ONLY to event host, Susan, and not be asked of any other meetup participants in order to respect their privacy and promote their personal safety.*
**Update Your RSVP**
Please change your RSVP if you can no longer make it.
**VSDC: More Than A Meetup**
We are delighted to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we look forward to seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](https://vsdc.org/%20) is a nonprofit organization with membership benefits?
With VSDC membership, you will save money at area restaurants and businesses, attend VSDC member-only events, and, most importantly, support us as a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle.
The membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Join today](https://vsdc.org/membership/)!
**Ways to Stay In Touch with Us**
Thank you for being part of our Meetup presence and bringing like-minded people together. We invite you to:
* Become a [VSDC member](https://vsdc.org/membership/) to save money at area restaurants and support us in being a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle.
* Sign up for our[ monthly e-newsletter](https://vsdc.org/about/newsletter/) to hear more about our activities.
* Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/vegsocietydc/) or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/vegsocietydc/) to engage with us.
**Interested in Volunteering with VSDC?**
VSDC offers many events each month, thanks to the dedication of our event planning team. Would you consider volunteering? To learn more and get started, [please visit our website](https://vsdc.org/volunteer/).
**Only Vegan Food, Please**
While VSDC welcomes people wherever they are on the path to an all-plant, vegan diet and lifestyle, it is our policy that only vegan food be served and consumed at our events. If you would like to [explore a vegan diet or get support in making lifestyle changes, consider these resources](https://vsdc.org/exploringvegan/).
**Liability Waiver and Code of Conduct**
When you sign up to attend, you automatically acknowledge [VSDC's Liability Waiver](https://vsdc.org/activity-waiver/) and commit to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/).
*VSDC. Creating communities. For your health, the animals, and the planet.*
From Glen Echo's Charm to the Majestic Great Falls with E-bike Lovers
[https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45899232](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45899232)
26.1 miles. Lunch is at the Great Falls overlook 18.2 miles into the ride. There are toilets at Great Falls and Fletchers' Boathouse.
We will e-bike from Glen Echo Park in Maryland to the majestic Great Falls. We will be biking on the Capital Crescent Trail, the C&O Canal pathway, and McArthur Blvd with separate biking lanes. This tour captures the essence of adventure and natural beauty.
We will be meandering alongside the serene Potomac River and the C&O Canal, offering E-bike Lovers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in the lush landscapes that define this region.
Glen Echo Park, with its rich tapestry of cultural and artistic heritage, serves as the perfect prologue to a journey that gradually unfolds into the wild, untamed beauty of the Great Falls.
The route is just over 26 miles on gravel and asphalt. The gravel is compact. If you don't like the gravel on the C&O Canal pathway, this is not your route.
Entrance to the Great Falls National Park is for free as we enter from the C&O Canal.
We park at the large parking lot off Oxford Street, NOT at the smaller lot at McArthur Blvd.
Please bring snacks, lunch and plenty of water.
FYI: Ride With GPS E-bike Lovers Club membership is now for free as [www.ebikelovers.com](http://www.ebikelovers.com/) generates sufficient income from ads to cover the costs.
Here is the link to activate your free membership:
[https://ridewithgps.com/auto_approve/Club/6746/Zwa5jhttF5mJrFbN](https://ridewithgps.com/auto_approve/Club/6746/Zwa5jhttF5mJrFbN)
The group stops a few times for slower riders to catch up.
**REMEMBER:** This is a self-guided event. This event empowers each participant to take the lead, as there are no designated bike leaders within E-bike Lovers. We all embrace the role of leaders in this self-guided experience.
Please RSVP only if you are coming so we know how many E-bike Lovers will participate. We enjoy a nearly 100% RSVP success rate.
Thank you so much for your help!
As usual, non-assisted bikers are most welcome.
DISCLAIMER
LIMITATION OF LIABILITY: TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMISSIBLE PURSUANT TO APPLICABLE LAW, NEITHER GREGORY MAASSEN, NATHAN MERRIS, RICHARD CAMER TRIP COORDINATORS, THEIR AFFILIATES, FAMILY AND FORMER AND CURRENT EMPLOYERS NOR ANY OTHER PARTY INVOLVED IN CREATING, PRODUCING, OR DELIVERING E-BIKE LOVERS GUIDES, OUR MEETUP EVENTS, AND THE GPS E-TRAILS IS LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, INDIRECT, EXEMPLARY, OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF A USER’S ACCESS TO, OR USE OF THE E-BIKE LOVERS GUIDES, OUR MEETUP EVENTS, AND THE GPS E-TRAILS.
See for the full disclaimer: https://ebikelovers.com/disclaimer
Saving the Planet Events Near You
Connect with your local Saving the Planet community
Nature Loving Fest | Summer Edition
Join us for the Summer edition of [Nature Loving Fest](https://www.facebook.com/events/1575999320350910/), a small, thoughtfully curated outdoor gathering celebrating vibrant vegan eats, handmade goods, and the fullness of the season.
Formerly known as our Vegan Pop-Up, this gathering continues to grow as a space rooted in nature, community, and intentional living. Expect around 20 + local vendors offering refreshing seasonal vegan dishes, small-batch bakes, handcrafted goods, and earth-conscious products.
This is a welcoming space to slow down, connect, and enjoy the warmth and abundance of summer.
Come support local makers, share good food, and celebrate the height of summer with us.
Admission is Free.
Melancholia
Be prepared for an entirely different type of sci-fi movie!
Unofficially, the second movie in director Lars von Trier's "Depression Trilogy," 2011 Melancholia depicts the events that occur before a rogue planet is about to collide with the earth. Considered by many to be a masterpiece, the film was included in BFI's 2022 Sight and Sound Poll of the greatest movies of all time.
It is available at the library as well as on Kanopy.
CMG Gives Back: Serve Dinner at FAITH MISSION GRANT KITCHEN!
Join us as we get together to get together to help those in need at this CMG Gives Back event! We have a great little community of Movie Group friends so rather than see a movie this time, we’ll help “Create a better world” by helping serve those in need. NOTE: We’re switching it up this time and going with a DINNER shift on Mon, 7/6. Here are complete details and our plan for this event:
FAITH MISSION – GRANT KITCHEN: The Faith Mission kitchen and dining room serves residents 3 meals a day, every day of the year. For this event, our group will help prepare food, serve meals, assist residents in the dining room, wash dishes, and clean surfaces.
PLAN: We will be preparing / serving / cleaning for DINNER from 4:30 to 6:30pm and have space for a total of 7 volunteers. Please arrive at 4:20pm and wear closed-toe shoes and long pants.
LOCATION: Faith Mission – Grant Kitchen is located at 245 N. Grant Ave. Enter the kitchen at Dock 1 (in the back of the building), indicated in the attached map. On-site parking in the adjacent lot and street parking are available in the surrounding area. Below are some links / attachments with additional info/details:
IMPORTANT REMINDER: Our group will be providing all of the volunteers on this day so a firm RSVP count is essential. Please only sign up if you are certain you’ll be able to attend. If something unavoidable comes up, please try to update your RSVP no later than one week prior to the event. With few exceptions, no shows or cancelations within 1 week of the event will not be eligible for future CMG Gives Back events. I appreciate your understanding as we try to ensure the agencies have the volunteers needed to provide the essential services they provide to the vulnerable population they serve. Our Partner Agency for this event is Lutheran Social Services! A huge THANK YOU to those volunteering at this (or any of our previous or future) CMG Gives Back events!
Look forward to seeing you there, Dan
The Sparrow - Mary Doria Russell
Join us for The Sparrow by Mary Doria Russell
In 2019, humanity finally finds proof of extraterrestrial life when a listening post in Puerto Rico picks up exquisite singing from a planet that will come to be known as Rakhat. While United Nations diplomats endlessly debate a possible first contact mission, the Society of Jesus quietly organizes an eight-person scientific expedition of its own. What the Jesuits find is a world so beyond comprehension that it will lead them to question what it means to be "human".
Columbus, OH Open Men’s Group / Intro to Men’s Work
Interested? Contact Preston Moore
k.preston.moore@gmail.com
614-300-5989
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Engaging in men’s work is the new way to forge friendships while being open-minded to personal growth. Many men experience healthier relationships, personally and professionally, by engaging in this work.
Open Men’s Group is a container for men to share vulnerably without receiving judgment or feedback.
We believe that emotionally mature, powerful, compassionate, and purpose-driven men will help heal some of society’s deepest wounds. We support the powerful brilliance of men and we are willing to look at, and take full responsibility for, the pain we are also capable of creating – and suffering. We care deeply about men, our families, communities, and the planet.
Visit ManKind Project USA to discover more. https://mkpusa.org/
Learn how to make a gravel garden with native plants 🦋
Gravel Gardens 101 with Native Plants
Thursday,
July 9, 2026
Learn how to design, install, and maintain a water-wise and low-maintenance gravel garden. We will cover plant selection (like drought-tolerant natives), proper gravel depth, and weed prevention.
FREE! Register by July 7th at Licking Parks website
https://www.lickingparkdistrict.com/272/July-2026
Or just show up! (Registering will let you know of any date/time changes)
6PM - 7:30 PM

























