Trekking with Kids

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. **7 mile loop with a 679 ft. elevation gain that makes the hike the equivalent to a bit over 8.5 miles.** (400 ft gain = 1 mile) **Per Park Permit Guidelines, this hike is *limited* to *20 Hikers*** **Description**: **[Rock Creek Park](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/index.htm)** is truly a gem in our nation's capital. This 1,754 acre city park was officially authorized in 1890, making it the third national park. It offers visitors the opportunity to escape the bustle of the city and find a peaceful refuge, recreation, fresh air, majestic trees, wild animals. This hike starts from the **[Rock Creek Park Nature Center](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/nature-center-and-planetarium.htm)**[ ](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/nature-center-and-planetarium.htm)(Plenty of Free Parking; closed Mon/Tues), crosses Military Road heading north along the **[Western Ridge Trail,](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/maps.htm)** over the **[Boundary bridge](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/maps.htm)** and then south following the creek to the **[Valley Trail](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/maps.htm)**, and then back to the **[Nature Center.](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/nature-center-and-planetarium.htm)** **Pace:** pace is about 2 - 2.5 mph while moving. **Bring**: adequate water/hydration, also snack/lunch, insect repellant as Tick Season is here and sturdy hiking shoes since there are rocky areas, tree roots and a stream crossing, **Dogs:** Dogs are **not** welcome on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. **Weather:** weather in this location is **[HERE](https://weather.com/weather/hourbyhour/l/NoMa+Washington+District+of+Columbia?canonicalCityId=5449cc9af33d6584872016be78d0340d)**[.](https://weather.com/weather/hourbyhour/l/NoMa+Washington+District+of+Columbia?canonicalCityId=5449cc9af33d6584872016be78d0340d) **Meetup Location:** we will meet in the parking lot of the Rock Creek Park Nature Center & Planetarium (Closed Monday and Tuesdays) at 5200 Glover Rd NW, Washington, DC 20015. **GPS Coordinates : 38°57'34.1"N 77°03'05.6"W** **Maps** **[Hiking in Rock Creek Park](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/hiking.htm)** **[Rock Creek Park](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/maps.htm)**

[Gypsy Kitchen](https://www.gypsykitchendc.com/#gypsy-kitchen)'s menu is peppered not only with familiar ingredients like housemade hummus and whole roasted branzino, but also lesser known, delightfully flavorful creations like smoked duck prosciutto cured with oranges and tuna crudo with harissa and squid ink tuile. Small and large dishes ranging from $12 to $38. Take a look at the [menu](https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f282a42c0c6057ff41202e8/t/68f00ee40354521ecb0ceb76/1760562916363/GKDC-MAIN-10.15.25-v1.pdf) for details. IMPORTANT INFORMATION: * **CASH only.** * **Only sign up if you can commit.** * **Do not sign up if you are a maybe.** * **Do not sign up if you were a no show or canceled at the last minute in 2026 for one of my events.** * If your plans change, update your RSVP even if you are in the Waitlist. * Individuals that don't show or cancel in the last 24 hours will not be able to join future events organized by me in 2026. * Four days before the event, I will ask everyone in the Going list to confirm they are attending. I will ask everyone to confirm by the end of the day. Individuals that do not respond/confirm will be removed from the list and I will ask who in the Waitlist would like to join. * Please, respect these simple instructions. * The organizer reserves the right to change, cancel, and/or manage the event as they see fit. See you at Gypsy Kitchen!

**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. The hike is about 12.5 miles with 1600 feet elevation gain in Sky Meadows State Park. We will start from the visitor center with a quick warmup climbing up North Ridge trail to the overlooks. After looping back down, we will head to lost mountain and hike almost every trail on the east side. We hike at a pace of **3-3.5 mph** when moving. Faster on flat/downhill sections. ***This is considered a fast hike. You must be experienced in hikes of this distance, elevation gain and speed.*** Leader: Xiaobin 857-408-1070 **The hike leader will meet at the** **trailhead at 8AM**. PLEASE NOTE: Neither the Club nor the hike leaders are responsible for coordinating transportation to/from the trailhead. Hikers are not guaranteed to get a ride to the trailhead from the carpool location. Carpooling is organized by the participants and they participate at their own risk. Trailhead: **Sky Meadows Visitor Parking at 8AM** GPS Coordinates: 38.99193015785012, -77.96586598358779 [https://goo.gl/maps/ppMunuKYabQcaH4w8](https://goo.gl/maps/ppMunuKYabQcaH4w8) Park Entry Fee: $10 or free if you have a Virginia State Park Pass or a receipt from participating REI stores in Virginia (details: [https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/pr-relz-detail?id=2016-05-18-14-32-37-164146-2x3](https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/pr-relz-detail?id=2016-05-18-14-32-37-164146-2x3)) Rating: A Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) Hiking Map: [https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uZ1XnrV92qQwTChGLe-bBFjNdtn5QcH7/view?usp=share_link](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uZ1XnrV92qQwTChGLe-bBFjNdtn5QcH7/view?usp=share_link)

**Welcome to Men's Circle, hosted at Sticks and Stones!** This is a group oriented towards fostering connection between men in our local community, while also accomplishing magickal working and intentional discussion around metaphysical topics. Please read the following code of conduct for our group, and message the facilitator or call the shop and ask for Merlin for any questions. Code of Conduct 1. We are all, in good faith, men. Whichever way that manifests, we take it on good faith that all attendees are male identifying. 2. We respect all walks of life and spiritual practice. We honor and respect men from every walk of life and spiritual practice. Freedom ends where it infringes on the practice of another. We do not evangelize, prostelitize, or talk down on others. There is no initiation, or universal code of spiritual conduct here. 3. What happens in Men's Circle stays in Men's Circle By attending, you accept a sacred duty to keep the trust and faith of the other attendees, do not share or discuss anything we share in circle. *(The secret answer to the question is "Salt on the Wind")* 4. Respect the circle Once the circle is cast, we are focusing our energy on magickal topics, and making the best use of everyone's time. With great love, we may ask you to redirect or keep a line of thought shorter or more intentional. 5. Arbitration is immediate and help-oriented If you run into a pain point or offense in our group, please speak up immediately and let your thoughts be heard. We are here to respect and grow and support each other as a community, let us help and grow together. **The next few weeks, we will be focusing discussion and practices around the following topic:** TBD

Lake Needwood is a cute little lake that perhaps isn't worth devoting a whole afternoon to, but it is a great relaxing spot on a weekday evening. If you've been hesitating to join us out of fear of being too slow - THIS is the event to join to calm your fears. We will launch from the mooring area on the east side of the lake. There is only parking for 16 vehicles along the road, so if you can't find a spot, then drop off you boat or board at the loading zone and park at the nearby playground. We will launch promptly at 6:15 and make a clockwise loop of the lake. Even taking it slow, we should be wrapped up before 7:45. This is event is suitable for kayaks (but not inflatables), canoes, and paddle boards (iSUPs are welcome). As always, you must WEAR, not just carry your life jacket/PFD. Supposedly you need a daily permit to paddle in Montgomery Parks. You can try to purchase at the website below on the day off, but it usually crashes on me. [Active Montgomery](https://mdmontgomeryctyweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/search.html?Action=Start&SubAction=&_csrf_token=23565217beafb8bd637738803632d450131399c55443cfa590a489edd0fe6d1f&keyword=boat&subtype=&secondarycode=&keywordoption=Match+One&display=Detail&search=yes&page=1&module=PM&multiselectlist_value=&pmwebsearch_buttonsearch=yes)

Now in its 10th year, the [The Bernard/Ebb Songwriting Awards](https://www.strathmore.org/nurturing-artists/bernardebb-songwriting-awards/ "Bernard/Ebb Songwriting Awards") showcases some of the most compelling emerging songwriters from Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC. Finalists take the stage at Strathmore to perform their original work before judges select this year’s winners. The competition awards a $10,000 grand prize plus studio recording support, along with a $2,500 award to one talented songwriter under 17. All finalists in both the adult and youth categories receive additional cash prizes. Tickets are as low as $20 and include a dessert reception after which is very nice to socialize. **[Click here](https://www.strathmore.org/nurturing-artists/bernardebb-songwriting-awards/bernardebb-songwriting-awards-concert/)** to purchase tickets. Price goes up $5 the week of the event. The evening offers a rare chance to hear fresh, original music from artists on the rise and to celebrate the region’s vibrant songwriting community.

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

(Bus hike) This hike has a taste of Virginia (5 mile ridge walk on the AT starting at Keys Gap), West Virginia (where hikers pass through the Harpers Ferry historic town) and Maryland (3 miles on the C&O Towpath). The moderate and long hikes are exactly the same, but the long hike also has a 1000 foot scamper up the historic Maryland Heights. Est.: 13.5 miles, 1900' ascent and 10 miles, 900' ascent. PATC Map 7. Fare: $33. MD Hikes * **[DC: Near 17th and K St. NW](https://bit.ly/17thandKnu)** downtown (east side of Farragut Square). Bus leaves at 8 a.m. SHARP, so it's essential to arrive well before 8. * [Grosvenor-Strathmore - Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Grosvenor-Strathmore/@39.0290866,-77.1038062,16z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b7cc1d7517e10d:0x4dd38c36fee3d96d!8m2!3d39.0290866!4d-77.1038062!16s%2Fg%2F1hjh2tbt1?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDgwNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) Metro station at Tuckerman Lane off Rockville Pike in Bethesda (just north of the Beltway) Meet there by 8:15 a.m. Plenty of parking is available. RESERVATIONS Wanderbirds Hiking Club is a 501(c)(7) non-profit, and the public is invited on all hiking trips. Reservations are accepted as late as Saturday, but reserving as early in the week as possible helps ensure your spot and prevent cancellation of the hike due to low sign-ups. RSVP through Meetup and pay through PayPal. Please be sure your RSVP gives your full name and phone number and where you'll be boarding the bus. 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)

Here's another adventure inspired by my attempts to nibble off a few more miles for my SNP 500. This adventure takes us to the very end of the southern district. The plan: Depart Vienna and head to Rockfish Gap. We'll station a few cars there, and then make our way north to Jarman Gap to start our adventure. We'll head north along the AT to Turk Branch Trail, and then take that down to the South Moormans River Road. We'll follow that trail south and eventually rejoin the AT, taking that down to the Calf Mountain Hut. We'll camp there for the evening. Sunday is all AT back to Rockfish Gap and our cars. Reverse the shuttle and then make our way home. This should be a nice outing to explore some of Shenandoah's southern-most trails. I'll hold five spots for applicants and will prioritize them on the wait list. Applicants, you'll need to send me a gear list to be approved for the trip. **DCULers have maps!** PATC's Map 11 (South District) is the one to have. Questions? Send them my way. Group size is limited to 10. The Fine Print \- Total round\-trip distance is roughly 140 miles\. Per DC UL recommended guidelines of about $0\.10 per mile\, expect to chip in about $14 to your driver if you're catching a ride\. \- 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\. Applicants do not need to pay dues for their first trip\. To pay your dues via PayPal\, use this link: https://www\.paypal\.com/paypalme/JenniferAdach/15 \($10 annual dues plus a $5 suggested donation to City Kids Wilderness Project\.\) \- By RSVPing for this trip\, you acknowledge that you’ve read our COVID\-19 guidelines \(https://dculbackpacking\.com/about/covid\-19\-guidelines/\) and that you agree to DC UL's liability waiver terms\. \(https://dculbackpacking\.com/about/liability\-waiver\)

Join us on Saturday, April 25th for our 5th annual Volo Kids Classic DC Golf Tournament and help support an amazing cause! The tournament is a 4-person scramble and will take place at East Potomac Golf Course. Sign up as a free agent, form a team, or join an existing team. The range opens at 8am for breakfast and warm ups, and the tournament will be a shotgun start at 9am. **[REGISTER HERE](https://www.volosports.com/l/4a920e02-e378-4191-89ad-b3e17ac77ca0)** Your round includes: * Course & cart fees * Unlimited beverage cart 🍺🎉 * Food before & after the round * Volo Kids Swag * Customized scorecards * Chance to win awesome raffle items * Range balls - get there early to warm up! Proceeds from the tournament support the efforts of the [Volo Kids Foundation](https://volokids.org/). Volo Kids is on a mission to build communities of active, resilient, and confident kids by providing free and safe sports programs and removing barriers to entry such as money, transportation, gender and experience level. With your help, we hope to unlock the power of play for every kid, everywhere! Golf tournament sponsorship opportunities are available and are a great way to promote your business and further support the Volo Kids Foundation. Complete this [google form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeyScGRl6ntFMZw52iBqj7UK8I9X5HeDqlnN7EQGYGSm9facA/viewform) to learn more about sponsorship opportunities. Visit the [Volo Kids Foundation](https://volokids.org/) website to learn more about this amazing cause, volunteer opportunities, and other ways you can further support.

**IMPORTANT - READ** Monongahela National Forest limits groups to 10 people, so that is a hard limit for this trip. If you are not 100% committed please do ***NOT RSVP*** ## **Trail Facts** * **Difficulty Level: Moderate** * **Length:** 16 Miles * **Duration:** 2 Days * **Elevation Gain:** 2,216 Feet * **Bear Canisters:** Not Required * **Permits:** Not Required * **Parking:** Red Creek Trailhead * **Coordinates:** 38.972729, -79.397824 * **AllTrails Map**: [https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/dolly-sods-backpack-16-mi-24357dd](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/dolly-sods-backpack-16-mi-24357dd) The Dolly Sods Wilderness is a U.S. Wilderness Area in the Allegheny Mountains of eastern West Virginia and is part of the Monongahela National Forest (MNF) and one of the most desirable trekking areas in the US. Dolly Sods is a rocky, high-altitude plateau with sweeping vistas and flora and fauna normally found much further north in Canada. A backpacking trip in this area will expose you to a very diverse and unique landscape with sphagnum bogs, grassy meadows lined by spruce trees, wind-carved boulders, and beautiful mountain vistas. Note - this area can have very unpredictable weather. I've had everything from sunshine, to heavy rain, to even snow and hail as late as May. Pack accordingly. **Trail Details:** We will meet at The Vienna Metro station on Saturday morning at 8am and drive to the Red Creek Trailhead at the southern end of the Dolly Sods wilderness. The drive is about 3 hours - I will drive and am happy to have up to 3 others carpool with me. When we arrive at the trailhead, we will hike about 6.3 miles to our campsite, stopping once to check out the the iconic Lion's Head on Breathed Mountain (pictured in the post). Should be an early day, so feel free to bring cards, adult beverages, or other items to pass the time. The second day, we will explore the rest of the park, which includes the rugged Dunkenbarger trail. The second day is about 9.4 miles back to the car. There are a ton of stream crossings on this trip - so expect to get wet and pack accordingly. **Essential Items**: * Tent * Sleeping pad​ * Sleeping bag suitable for expected temperatures​ * Backpack (appropriate for overnight backpacking)​ * Backpacking stove with fuel​ * Pot, cup, dish, and utensils​ * Dehydrated meals​ and snacks * Water bottles or hydration system (capacity for at least 2 liters)​ * Water filter or purification tablets​ * Headlamp with extra batteries​ * Rain gear * Dry bags or pack cover​ * Warm clothing layers (non-cotton) * Trowel for and toiletries for Leave No Trace compliance **Optional Items**: * Personal first aid kit​ * Map and compass or GPS device * Power bank or external battery * Trekking poles​ * Camp shoes * Electrolyte supplements​ * Alcohol​ * Books, games, or other enterainment * Gaiters​ * Sunscreen, lip balm, insect repellent​​ **General meetup location:** Vienna Metro Station - 8:00am Time driving: 3 hr. each way Google driving direction from Vienna metro: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/KUW283UFEe5kJJnLA](https://maps.app.goo.gl/KUW283UFEe5kJJnLA) **CARPOOL:** Don't forget if you want a ride or are willing to offer a ride – be a friend to the environment, save money, and make friends. **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!

**Billy Goat A, B and C, a Challenging 10.5 Mile Hike** SEE IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON REGISTRATION UNDER "NOTES." Located within the Chesapeake and Ohio (C&O) Canal National Historical Park, the Billy Goat Trail is one of the most famous hiking circuits in the Washington, D.C. metro area. Split into three distinct sections—A, B, and C—it offers a variety of terrain ranging from technical rock scrambling to peaceful woodland paths. We will hike all three sections. Section A is the most famous and difficult portion of the trail. It is renowned for its rugged terrain along the edge of the Mather Gorge and spectacular views. Expect heavy rock scrambling that requires the use of both hands and feet. The highlight is the "Traverse," a 40-foot climb up a near-vertical rock face at a 45-degree angle. Section B offers a transition between the intensity of Section A and the ease of Section C. It is currently a favorite for those who want a river experience without the vertical intensity of the northern section. The trail winds through silver maple forests and across small rocky beaches. It feels more secluded and offers several spots to sit by the water's edge. Section C is ideal for birdwatchers and hikers looking for a scenic but low-impact outing. This section is heavily forested and features several vernal pools (seasonal ponds) that are home to rare plants and amphibians. It is the least technical of the three sections. It offers excellent views of the Potomac River through the trees and access to several sandy floodplains. This is a challenging hike due primarily to the A section. Sturdy hiking boots with non-slip treads are a must. And be prepared to put your rock scrambling skills to a test. Please do not attend this hike unless you are skilled at rock scrambling. Dogs are not permitted on this hike due to the restrictions of Billy Goat A. **Time to Meet**: Please meet at 8:45 for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 9:00 **Contact Information**: Please use the comments feature for routine comments and questions. The hike Leaders is Christa (410-610-6254) and Tim (202-744-0289). Call or text as needed. **Directions to Trailhead:** The GPS Coordinates are [39.001617, -77.247334](https://www.google.com/maps/place/39%C2%B000'05.8%22N+77%C2%B014'50.4%22W/@39.001617,-77.247334,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m4!3m3!8m2!3d39.001617!4d-77.247334?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) The Street address is [11710 MacArthur Blvd, Potomac, MD 20854](https://www.google.com/maps/place/39%C2%B000'05.8%22N+77%C2%B014'50.4%22W/@39.001617,-77.247334,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m4!3m3!8m2!3d39.001617!4d-77.247334?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). NOTE: From this address, follow signs down to the visitor center parking lot. NOTE: There is a $20 entrance fee per car unless you have a National Parks Pass. **Details:** Rating: Moderate Distance: 10.5 miles Elevation Gain: Approximately 400 feet Pace: 2.0 to 2.25 miles per hour; slower on Billy Goat A Facilities: There is a toilet near the trailhead Fees: $20 parking fee or Pass for National Parks **Cancellation:** In the unlikely event that the hike needs to be cancelled, it may be cancelled up to the evening before the hike. Hikers will be notified through comments on this posting. **Weather:** The weather for this location can be found [here](https://weather.com/weather/today/l/11b14a8b4739108b3cc0c240111f9e44bf73c9d24f533f2a71def50e63f1ae3a). **Notes:** \- RSVP TO ATTEND THIS HIKE\. IF YOUR PLANS CHANGE\, UPDATE YOUR RSVP BY 6:00 PM THE DAY BEFORE SO THERE IS TIME TO BACKFILL YOUR SPOT\. SIGNING OUT AFTER 6:00 PM WILL RESULT IN A "NO SHOW\." REPEATED NO SHOWS WILL RESULT IN BARRING YOU FROM FUTURE HIKES WITH THIS LEADER\. IF YOU ARE ON THE WAITLIST\, CHECK YOUR STATUS SOON AFTER 6:00 PM THE DAY BEFORE TO SEE IF YOU ARE ON THE "GOING" LIST\. -Please do not show up unregistered. -Please keep this a fragrance free event. -To find out more about PATC, [click here](https://www.patc.net/). -Consider becoming a member of PATC. To join, [click here.](https://www.patc.net/membership)

**We'll hike 3.4 miles on the Killdeer and Yellowlegs Trails - both out and back gravel trails. If we want more mileage we can repeat an out and back. Pace of around 3.5 mph, no one left behind and those who want to go faster sure can!** **As always optional lunch after.** **This is the second Metro Park in the lineup - with 21 to go (plus more are being added).** **Also I have a conflict and am not available so have asked Karin to lead!**

*We can only take 13 women on this trip.* **The details...** Immerse yourself in the wild splendor of Scotland on this exclusive **women’s 8-day hiking** adventure. Misty moors, heather-clad hillsides, verdant glens, and ancient castles steeped in folklore will fill your camera roll by the end of this trip. ***Learn more about this all women journey here: [Highlands](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/journeys-1/hiking-highlands-scotland-2026)*** **A guided adventure:** Guided by experienced locals, explore the untamed hills of Glencoe and the Cairngorms during invigorating day hikes. Each evening, unwind and reflect on the day’s experiences, forging friendships and savoring Highland hospitality. This is more than a hiking trip. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in Scotland’s rich history and traditions. Learn about women-led crofts and take a loch plunge while wild swimming (followed by a steamy sauna). **What to expect...** * Hike in Scotland’s rugged Highlands and experience green Glencoe. * Visit a medieval castles and historic stone villages. * Soak up the history of Edinburgh’s city center. * Indulge in delicious and plentiful Scottish cuisine, including fresh seafood, local beer, and hearty breakfasts. * Traverse heather-clad landscapes while giving your body a good workout. (You must train for this trip.) * Enjoy restorative stays at beautiful hotels. **Wait, there's more...** * Bask in the beauty of the Cairngorms. * Hike with other Bold Spirit women who love to travel as much as you do. * Learn about rewilding and women-led crofting. * Shop along the cobblestone streets of Edinburgh. * Take the plunge into a loch for wild swimming and a shoreline sauna experience. * Stretch both your mind and hamstrings on this special journey. The best part? Our team **takes care of the logistics** so you can focus on enjoying a much needed vacation in beautiful Scotland. Are you ready to meet other women who love to hike and travel, plus see Scotland with professional guides? ***Learn more about this all women tour here: [2026 Hiking the Highlands Journey](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/journeys-1/hiking-highlands-scotland-2026)*** * Ask us questions here: [Tell me more about this trip](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/contact) * Learn about Bold Spirit Travel [here](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/about). * Rates start at $6195