Outdoor Adventures

Help us celebrate the **Sierra Club’s Potomac Region Outings** **(SCPRO)** and usher in a new year of outdoor activities by joining us at this (indoor) winter potluck party. The party is open to all—outings participants (past, current, or future) and leaders (past, current, or future), as well family, friends, and curious onlookers—so feel free to invite others. Special guests are our long-term leaders whom we recognize with sincere appreciation for their volunteer service to the Club. They have helped introduce thousands of people to the outdoors and then helped them enjoy it for many more years! Photo albums of other SCPRO [socials](https://sites.google.com/view/wandering-soles/special-events/scpro-socials). **FOOD & DRINKS** You are invited to bring food (prepared or bought by you) to share—a main dish, side dish or salad, or appetizer. The food you bring should reflect your family's heritage so that we end up with international fare. (Don't forget serving utensils.) Please DO NOT bring desserts, chips, nuts, dips, and other snacks. If you can’t, don’t want to, or forget to make a dish, don’t let that stop you from coming as there is sure to be more than enough food! We will provide fruit snacks, dessert, water/soft drinks, and plastic/paper ware. To save a little bit of the world, please bring your own washable plates, cups, and eating utensils. A $5 cash voluntary donation per person to cover the cost of the event is welcomed, but not required. **WHEN & WHERE** Sunday, January 25, 2026, 5:30-8 pm, Bethesda Club Room, White Flint Station Condos, 11800 Old Georgetown Road, North Bethesda, MD ([GoogleMaps](http://goo.gl/yZLGhb)). The entrance is at the NE corner of the Chapman Avenue and Old Georgetown Road "T" junction (see photos below), and the room is on your right just after entering. **Metro:** The location is one block north of, or 0.4 miles from, the Red Line’s North Bethesda Metro station, 5679 Marinelli Rd ([GoogleMaps](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/39.0474399,-77.1125592/39.0500145,-77.110907/@39.0486043,-77.1132003,555m/am=t/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m2!4m1!3e2?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTExMC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D)). **Parking:** Street meter parking is free on weekends (see photo below). There is a Metro parking garage (5627 Marinelli Rd, but entrance on Citadel Ave.; [GoogleMaps](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/39.0479932,-77.1094668/11800+Old+Georgetown+Road,+Rockville,+MD/@39.0491272,-77.1127684,1111m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m9!4m8!1m0!1m5!1m1!1s0x89b7cc2f1db815fd:0x8a0308c08227de73!2m2!1d-77.1108517!2d39.0502507!3e2?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTExMC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D)) that is also free on weekends, and a commercial garage at Pike & Rose (11580 Old Georgetown Rd; [GoogleMaps](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/39.0489289,-77.1180482/39.0500176,-77.1109542/@39.0489563,-77.115838,931m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m2!4m1!3e2?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTExMC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D)). Each garage is about 0.3 miles away. **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. **INFO?** If you have questions about the event, contact Mike (Mike.Darzi@Gmail.com).

*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.* Despite weather in the low 20s on Sunday, it's just TOO DROP-DEAD STUNNINGLY BEAUTIFUL to miss hiking in the snow. Especially since snow seldom hangs around so long in DC. We'll hike 6ish miles on the flat (but still slippery, snow-covered, and risky) C&O Canal Towpath from the Carderock Recreation Area to just past Great Falls Tavern. We'll hike at a moderate 3 mph pace. (Slower in some areas if necessary.) **Please do NOT attend if you can't safely and happily keep up with the group since the weather and towpath conditions are special challenges.** We'll stop along the way for selfies by the frozen canal and the partially frozen Potomac River. **MEET:** Carderock Recreation Area (First available parking outside the Beltway for the C&O Canal) 11:30 am. GPS: 38.976127, -77.205495 Meet by the closed bathroom building in the northernmost parking lot. Our end time is 3 pm. We'll likely finish earlier but the end time depends on how many stops we want to make and how long we dawdle at the Great Falls Tavern and elsewhere. We'll also walk out on Olmstead Island for a view of Great Falls if conditions permit. **BRING:** **MANDATORY ICE CLEATS** MUST BE WORN AND OTHER WINTER CLOTHING IS ALSO REQUIRED ON YOUR BODY AND/OR IN YOUR BACKPACK due to the temperature. THIS IS ALSO REQUIRED: water, two pairs of warm gloves, hat, scarf (or balaclava or gaiter), warm shoes (insulated and/or Gore-Tex or similar), one to two pairs of wool (or other) warm socks, and two pairs of pants or one pair of very warm pants. Layered jackets are also recommended and hand/toe warmers are HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. **PLEASE READ. YOU \*WILL\* BE GRADED ON THIS: ;)** 1\. Adults only\. 2\. No pets\, unless your pet can self\-propel on snowshoes or cross country skis\. **WEATHER:** **FRIGID!** The National Weather Service predicts that it will be partly sunny and 23 (in the shade -- but we'll be in the sun a lot). The winds could reach around 17 mph with higher gusts. Most of the time we will be sheltered from a lot of the wind -- BUT THERE COULD BE FALLING BRANCHES so we have to be watchful and extra careful during our hike. (I scouted half of it Saturday and it didn't feel too bad.) https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=39.026619&lon=-77.203926 [https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=39.026619&lon=-77.203926](https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=39.026619&lon=-77.203926) The canal and the towpath are completely covered with snow and ice. While it's beautiful, even with ice cleats, you could slip and/or your feet could hit a pocket under the snow. Please only attend if you can safely handle all those conditions. **RESTROOMS:** Porta potties at the start and middle. Restrooms at Great Falls Tavern. **C&O CANAL CONDITIONS:** [https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/conditions.htm](https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/conditions.htm) **C&O CANAL MAP:** [https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/upload/Great-Falls-Hiking-Map.pdf](https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/upload/Great-Falls-Hiking-Map.pdf)

Hey everyone! 👋 It’s time to celebrate all the amazing people with February birthdays — including me! 🥳 If you have a February birthday or just want to spend the day soaking, relaxing, laughing, and making some great memories together at one of the best spots in town, then this event is for you! ✨ Whether you love relaxing in saunas, soaking in hot baths, or just want to chill with friends, this is the spot to celebrate all February birthdays in style! Welcome to King Spa, the premier Korean day spa in Virginia, offering a unique blend of traditional wellness and modern luxyry. Voted ‘Best Day Spa’ three years running by Northern Virginia Magazine, King Spa provides a sanctuary of healing through detoxifying saunas, signature body scrubs, rejuvenating facials, and more. Each treatment is designed to leave you feeling rejuvenated, refreshed, and truly cared for. 💛 What to Expect: 🎉 Multiple Saunas and Aqua Pools 🧖‍♂️ Access to spa amenities (facials, massages, body scrubs (a la carte pricing) 🥙 Food court 🎂 Cake Cutting 💬 Hangout time with fellow February birthdays + friends 👚Dress code: You will be given a robe and slippers so wear something comfy under the robe (leggings, yoga pants, t-shirt, shorts). Of course , if you plan to swim in the pools and sit in the jacuzzi , then wear your bathing suit 🩳🩱under the robe. 💲 Admission & Details $70 per person for the full day event. You can purchase your ticket online here: https://ticket-virginia.kingspa.com/Admission/AdmissionDetail?Id=ITMMAA17PYLOKZMT The $70 rate is a special they have going on now. not sure how long it will last so book ASAP! RSVP so we know you’re coming! Feel free to invite other February birthday friends 🎈 Can’t wait to celebrate with you all! 🎂💛 *If you need to cancel your RSVP do it 24 hours before the event. No shows and late cancellations may be subject to removal from the group by the organizer. We will be checking everyone in - so we will have a tally of who does and does not come." See you at King Spa! 🧖‍♀️💆‍♂️

Laser tag with the

**Exploring Clopper Lake in Seneca Creek State Park, a 6.5-Mile Hike** IMPORTANT: Due to snow and ice, microspikes are REQUIRED to participate on this hike. If you arrive without them, you will not be allowed to join the hike. This is for your own safely. Nestled in the heart of Maryland, Seneca Creek State Park is a sprawling expanse of natural beauty, rich with diverse habitats, scenic vistas, and a sense of tranquility that draws visitors from near and far. The park encompasses an impressive 6,300 acres, stretching along 14 meandering miles of the picturesque Seneca Creek as it weaves its way toward the Potomac River. At the heart of Seneca Creek Park lies the Clopper Day-Use Area, a favorite destination for both casual visitors and seasoned naturalists. Here one finds a remarkable diversity of scenic areas, each with its own allure. The highlight, however, is undoubtedly Clopper Lake—a woodland-enveloped, 90-acre expanse of tranquil water. This 6.5-mile, modestly hilly water-side hike follows a loop around Clopper Lake and through its surrounding forest. It passes through oak and hickory woods that harbor dogwoods, redbuds, pines, and mountain laurels. With only 404 feet of elevation change, the trail is accessible to most, offering a satisfying challenge without the rigors of steep climbs. **Time to Meet**: Please meet at 10:15 for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 10:30. **Directions to Trailhead READ CAREFULLY**: The GPS Coordinates are 39.151561, -77.248895 The address is 11950 Clopper Road, Gaithersburg, MD. As you enter the park area from Clopper Road, take the first right toward the park offices. We meet at that parking lot. If you find yourself at the payment booth, you have missed the turn. **Contact Information:** Please use the comments feature for routine comments and questions. The hike Leader is Christa: 410-610-6254. Call or text as needed. **Details** Rating: Moderate Distance: 6.5 miles Elevation Gain: Approximately 400 ft Pace: 2.0 to 2.5 miles per hour Facilities: Toilets may not be open this time of year Fees: No entrance fees With snow and ice on the trail it may be better leaving your dog at home. Your choice! **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/99f59d56e6474370910f16e5a8c6fe3c7ac38e1c428fa97def9262a6b240987a) **Notes:** -Please note, you must sign up at by 8:00 PM the day before the hike. -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).

Simply Social is tucked away off Sunrise Valley in Reston. They've got a good selection of savory bites, and their matcha and espresso drinks are always tasty. They've got a decent amount of seating and a nice community vibe here. Grab a pastry (or not) and let's enjoy another winter Sunday morning. (No discussions on politics, religion or potentially controversial topics. We're here to relax and have fun. Just be respectful and we'll be alright. Pay your own way, and enjoy!)

We will hike a section of the Bull Run Occoquan Trail that runs along the Occoquan from the Bull Run Marina to the Fountainhead Regional Park's parking lot. There are some ups and down on the trail, some rocks and irregularity, but generally it is a fairly straight forward trail through woods looking over water -- always a good combination! We will hike about 6 miles at a moderate pace -- stopping as we need. This is a great way to anticipate spring and get outdoors. Bring a lunch and water as well as layers of clothing to suit the weather. No dogs. Registration is required, sign up at the following link: https://activities.outdoors.org/s/oc-activity/a5UVX000000zJP8/act00018674 Carpooling is available, more info about transport options is also available through the sign up site.

(2024) by Christof Koch, 288 pages [Psychology] • Hardcover • Kindle • Audiobook • Library: https://fcplcat.fairfaxcounty.gov/search/title.aspx?ctx=1.1033.0.0.1&pos=1&cn=613100 Check the How To Find Us section for Zoom Link **(Remember, the Zoom Link is different each month, do not bookmark)** ### Review "A wonderful book."―Sam Harris, Making Sense with Sam Harris “a fun introduction to a number of debates… Mr. Koch’s book provokes questions… and counterarguments, but that’s what gives it life.” ―The Wall Street Journal “Easily the most current, thorough, and helpful exploration of consciousness available. Koch’s light, simple, yet authoritative writing style will appeal to general audiences as well as scientists and researchers. An essential, highly recommended purchase.”―Library Journal “magisterial… charming, sometimes beautiful, and almost always illuminating” ―Science Magazine “an impressive and sometimes exuberant work, showcasing decades of [Koch’s] research”―New Scientist “Koch’s adept use of analogies and entertaining anecdotes — complete with his own near-death experience and psychedelic drug trips — make the book a compelling and surprisingly light read.” ―Science News “undeniably compelling… a smoothly written must-read for anyone interested in a detailed introduction to the relationship between the brain, consciousness, and transformative experiences” ―Ars Technica “Expertly weaving in personal experience with science that few, if any, can speak more authoritatively about, Koch leads us on an amazing journey of consciousness—from birth to death. Deeply personal and infinitely digestible, Then I Am Myself the World is a remarkable must read for anyone interested in knowing their mind.”―Judson Brewer MD, PhD, New York Times–bestselling author of Unwinding Anxiety “Koch’s latest book brilliantly navigates the intricate landscape of our mind and our brain, offering insightful perspectives on the nature of conscious experiences, both ordinary as well as extraordinary ones.”―Hartmut Neven, founder and lead of Google’s quantum AI lab “Then I Am Myself the World is the new record of note for the scientific understanding of consciousness. This is an elegant tableau, a travelogue of subjective experience grounded in the latest neuroscience and philosophy traversing religion, science, and a life dedicated to the biggest questions. Filled with crystalline prose, lucid explanation, and revelatory honesty, this book will continue to be read centuries from now.”―Patrick House, author of Nineteen Ways of Looking at Consciousness “What would happen if a hardcore neuroscientist, with encyclopedic knowledge and four decades of experience in his field, were personally confronted with transformative mystical experiences carrying inevitable metaphysical implications? What would happen if the neuroscientist in question were open-minded, humble, but remained rigorously grounded in reason, evidence, and his hard-earned understanding of how consciousness relates to brain structures and function? What would he, the most preeminent professional of his generation, make of his extraordinary experiences? And what if, in addition, the neuroscientist was a modern renaissance man versed in physics, philosophy, the arts, the classics, and could pluck irresistibly evocative metaphors from the Western literary and artistic canon as if leisurely picking apples in early fall? This is what you will find in this treasured book, a whirlwind ride of insight after insight—so many they can’t possibly be all documented in footnotes—that will surprise and delight you from the get-go. ‘Primacy goes to consciousness, not to the objective world,’ he boldly states already on page two, in a prelude of things to come. ‘Everything else follows from there, including the realist assumption of the existence of objects, out ‘there,’ independent of my experiencing them.’ The book embodies the ever-evolving wisdom of a man whose intellectual prowess is only matched by his intellectual honesty. And this man, in the seventh decade of his scintillatingly productive life, has a lifetime of learning to share with you.”―Bernardo Kastrup, executive director, Essentia Foundation “Koch’s first book was entitled The Quest for Consciousness. And such has been Koch’s life, an adventurer’s pursuit of a distant goal, undeterred by the prevailing winds. The reader will learn where this quest has led and, like the author, will be enriched by it. Koch, one of the most accomplished scientists of our time, a mind singularly open to learning and changing, here opens his soul, revealing his vast, scintillating appreciation of nature in all its forms. It is a touching, profound book. Which is as it should be, since consciousness touches everything and is everything we touch.”―Giulio Tononi, University of Wisconsin-Madison ### About the Author Christof Koch is a neuroscientist at the Allen Institute and at the Tiny Blue Dot Foundation, the former president of the Allen Institute for Brain Science, and a former professor at the California Institute of Technology. Author of four previous titles, Koch writes regularly for a range of media, including Scientific American. He lives in the Pacific Northwest.

Breathwork & Awakening Workshop — 4 Hours of Deep Healing Life gets heavy when emotions, stress, and unprocessed experiences stay trapped in the body. Breath is one of the most natural ways to gently release, heal, and reconnect. This 4-hour in-person Breathwork & Awakening Workshop is a guided journey into deep relaxation, emotional release, and inner clarity—without force, analysis, or performance. Through conscious breathing, guided practices, and spacious integration, you’ll be supported to: ✨ Breathe deeply ✨ Release gently ✨ Awaken naturally 📅 Sunday, Feb 8 ⏰ 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM 📍 DhyanYoga Meditation Center (Lunch included) 💰 Contribution: $30 **Register Now:** https://www.breatheoflove.com/service-page/breathwork-awakening-workshop?referral=service_list_widget No prior experience needed. Come as you are—tired, curious, overwhelmed, or simply ready to breathe. 🌿 Come breathe with us. Limited spots available. RSVP required.

Because bloody Valentine's. We can refine as the date approaches but Fabbioli redeemed themselves with the sparkling rose and sparkling Pinot Grigio. Raspberry Merlot, not so much.

The Brahma Kumaris invites you, your family and friends, to join Sister Dr. Jenna as we celebrate Maha Shivratri, one of the most auspicious and revered festivals of India. It is celebrated to mark the opening of the third eye of spiritual vision and to experience our innate self and the Divine. Join us for dance, entertainment, spiritual sharing, meditation, and light refreshments. Sister Dr. Jenna is a spiritual mentor, author, radio and TV personality, and speaker. She is the founder of the Brahma Kumaris Meditation Museums in Maryland and Virginia. Sister Dr. Jenna has been featured on magazine covers, appeared on The Real Housewives of Atlanta, and was honored with the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award for National Community Service. She was the creator and host of the Illuminating the Light Within fashion show for the Paris 2024 Olympic Gala. Sunday, February 8th, 1:00pm - 2:30pm. Held at the Brahma Kumaris Meditation Museum - Virginia, 14020 Thunderbolt Pl., Suite 200, Chantilly, VA. FREE EVENT - Registration Required at [https://shorturl.at/MDENQ](https://shorturl.at/MDENQ)

This Shenandoah National Park out-and-back hike starts at the Dickey Ridge Trailhead before reaching the North Entrance pay station. A pretty stream runs parallel with the trail for about a mile until we begin an ascent to our turn around point where the trail again intersects with Skyline Drive. At this time of year, we should see early spring flowers! Sections of the trail are rocky, and there are several very small “rock hop” water crossings. Elevation gain is about 600 ft. We typically hike about 2 mph; however, we leave no one behind and will move at a pace that is comfortable for all. Breaking for flower photos is encouraged! **Group Size:** 20 hikers **Time to Meet:** Please meet 15-20 minutes prior to hike start for introductions and liability waiver sign in. If you can't make the hike, please edit your RSVP by 6 pm the night before to open a spot for anotherr hiker. **Meeting Location/Parking:** 17065 Skyline Drive, Front Royal, VA There is ample shoulder parking on both sides of Skyline Drive adjacent to the marked Dickey Ridge Trailhead although carpooling is encouraged to conserve spots. Heading south on Skyline Drive, the trailhead is on the right BEFORE the Front Royal/North Entrance Pay Station. **Facilities:** No restroom is available at the trailhead. **Admission:** Park fee or pass. https://www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/fees.htm **Contact Information**: Please use the comments feature for comments and questions. The hike leader is Lisa Peterson. **Cancellation**: In the event that the hike needs to be cancelled, hikers will be notified through comments on this posting. Please check Meetup for updates. **What to Bring:** Water at least two liters, emergency contact information, personal first aid kit and medications, snacks/meal, sunscreen/protection from weather, insect repellant, trekking poles if you use them (highly recommended for hikes with water crossings), sturdy hiking footwear. Please leave pets at home. Thanks! **Notes:** * RSVP to register for this hike. If your plans change, update your RSVP. * 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). Attendance is limited at the discretion of our hike leaders. PATC rules do not permit children under 18 years to participate in a hike without a parent or guardian present.

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. This is an 6.5 mile hike with 1000’ elevation gain to Harpers Ferry, West Virginia and is perfect for those that want to experience Maryland Heights without having to do a long hike. We will begin at the Harpers Ferry Train Station parking lot. We will hike the AT and then along the Shenandoah River and then at Appalachian Trail across the Potomac River on the footbridge. Taking a left we go briefly along the C&O Canal before taking the ***steep*** trails up to Maryland Heights for lunch. We hike at a pace of 2.0-2.5 mph when moving. [Rating: C](https://nvhc.com/hikeinfo/ratings/) (Upper level C hike, almost a B) Leader: Ed Brimberg 703-944-9920 (C) Park Entry Fee: $20 or free with National Park pass. Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) Carpools: Arrive at the One Loudoun Park and Ride at 7:45am, carpools leav at 8:00am GPS Coordinates: 39.053141, -77.459133, [https://maps.app.goo.gl/MUJ2c9E1oVYRu5Rp7](https://maps.app.goo.gl/MUJ2c9E1oVYRu5Rp7) . Suggested carpool fee is $4. ***The leader will be at the carpool location.*** Driving time to the trailhead from the carpool location \~1 hour. If you are going to the trailhead, meet at the Harpers Ferry Train Station at 9:00am, hike starts at 9:15am. A national park pass (leave on car dashboard) or $20 payment upon arrival using a **smartphone and a credit or debit card** via a QR code system. GPS coordinates: 39.324540, -77.731047 [https://goo.gl/maps/yLmDLB9cx44Bkr4z7](https://goo.gl/maps/yLmDLB9cx44Bkr4z7) 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. AllTrails Map: [https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-4165db0?u=i&sh=7cs7ov](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-4165db0?u=i&sh=7cs7ov) ***You must be experienced in hikes of this distance and elevation gain.***

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. ***\*\*\*\*\*\*You must have traction devices to be permitted on this hike.\*\*\*\*\**** An out and back 6.8 mile hike along the Potomac Heritage trail in the Ashburn area of Loudoun County. We will begin at Bles Park and follow the Potomac River north to Goose Creek and then return. Very little elevation gain. We hike at a pace of 2.5-3.0 mph when moving. [Rating: D](https://nvhc.com/hikeinfo/ratings/) No dogs permitted on this hike, Leader: Ed Brimberg 703-944-9920 (C) Park Entry Fee: $0.00 Meet at Bles Park @ 9:00am. GPS Coordinates: 39.068909, -77.449010 [https://maps.app.goo.gl/9CBS11B7bKaPZHsb7](https://maps.app.goo.gl/9CBS11B7bKaPZHsb7) ***Do not turn in at the sign that says "Bles Park Trailhead and Kayak Launch". Continue on to the next entrance.*** AllTrails Map: [https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/potomac-heritage-trail-loudoun-county-7-miles-51769da?u=i&sh=7cs7ov](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/potomac-heritage-trail-loudoun-county-7-miles-51769da?u=i&sh=7cs7ov)

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 durig 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/)**