Outdoor Adventures

Join us for presentations, snacks, and discussion! This time around we have an agenda of monitoring topics on the complete opposite spectrum. We'll talk about pure hobbyist monitoring topics, AI prompt based workflows and debugging your production Kubernetes clusters when they are on fire. **Special thanks to Nokia and Mark Prosser for hosting us at their downtown office.** **Agenda:** 6:00-6:15 PM: Arrivals and introductions 6:15-6:35 PM: Observability Sidequests 6:35-6:40 PM: Q&A 6:40-7:10 PM: Uh, is this a good idea? Examining the viability of reusable AI prompt-based workflows for developers 7:10-7:15 PM: Q&A 7:15-7:35 PM: Debugging your Kubernetes Cluster when it's on fire. 7:35-7:40 PM: Q&A 7:40-8:00 PM: Q&A, networking and wrap up **Talk 1: Observability Sidequests! - Eldin from Grafana** Eldin will demo some of his personal use dashboards, like monitoring his 3D printer and household CO2 and temperature sensors. **Eldin** helps people make sense of their systems through better observability. He's spent years in support, services, and advisory roles, so he knows what it really takes to make tech work in the real world. These days, he's all about helping teams solve modern observability challenges and systems that actually make life easier. **Talk 2: Uh, is this a good idea? Examining the viability of reusable AI prompt-based workflows for developers - Adriana - Dynatrace** It’s tempting to throw AI onto everything we do these days. But do we have to? Can we be lazy enough to tell our AI assistant to set up our local developer tooling for us with just some well-constructed prompts, without having to rely on our platform engineering friends? Can we achieve the Star Trek dream of saying, “Computer, run level 10 diagnostic.” and the computer would just know? And could it be repeatable and shareable? This talk explores the developer's journey of creating a natural-language, reusable prompt-based workflow with Block's Codename Goose to provision a local development environment. Attendees will learn about: \* MCP and Goose \* The target demo workflow \* Challenges faced, and key takeaways Attendees will also come away with an understanding of the possibilities and limits of creating reusable prompt-based workflows, answering the question: can developers self-provision tools using natural language? And just because they CAN, SHOULD THEY? **Adriana Villela** is a blogger, host of the Geeking Out podcast, CNCF Ambassador, and maintainer of the OpenTelemetry End User SIG. By day, she focuses on Observability and OpenTelemetry, as a Principal Developer Advocate at Dynatrace. By night, she climbs walls. She also loves capybaras, because they make her happy. **Talk 3: Debugging your Kubernetes Cluster when it's on fire - Nikola Grcevski - Grafana** Imagine you have a Kubernetes cluster that’s hosting some number of services, perhaps these services are written in different programming languages, perhaps there are some databases in the cluster too. Now, imagine that this cluster is intermittently experiencing errors and it’s not easy to tell what’s going on. In this talk I will show you how you can add detailed telemetry immediately to a problematic production environment cluster, without any changes to your existing cluster configuration or applications, with the new OpenTelemetry eBPF Instrumentation project. We’ll show you how you’ll be able to get insights into what’s wrong with your cluster or services, by leveraging on-demand distributed traces and connectivity graphs, even if it’s the first time you have heard the term OpenTelemetry. **Nikola Grcevski** has worked as a software engineer for more than 20 years, mostly in the field of compilers, managed runtimes and performance optimization. Most recently he's working on low level application instrumentation with eBPF at Grafana Labs.

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Join us for an evening of cultural exchange and language learning! This meetup is your opportunity to practice various languages, socialize, and make new friends in a relaxed and friendly environment. Whether you're a beginner or a fluent speaker, everyone is welcome to join the conversation and broaden their linguistic horizons. Expect to engage in engaging language exchange activities, connect with fellow language enthusiasts, and expand your understanding of different cultures. This event aims to foster a sense of community through the sharing of languages, experiences, and stories. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to expand your linguistic skills while building meaningful connections with like-minded individuals.

**🏀 Drop-In Basketball at the Miles Nadal JCC** Come shoot hoops, stay active, and connect with other players — right in the heart of the Annex! Join us for **friendly, casual basketball** at the Miles Nadal JCC, just steps from Spadina Station. Whether you're looking for a good run, some solid practice, or just a fun way to break a sweat, this drop-in session is for you! *** **🏀 Event Details:** 📍 **Location:** 750 Spadina Ave. (enter through the Spadina doors) 🛑 **Check-In:** Stop by security and check in at the front desk when you arrive *** **🏀 Registration & Payment (Required in Advance):** RSVP on Meetup **does not reserve your spot**. To participate in Drop-In Play, you must register and pay in advance through our system. 👉 **[Register here](https://app.amilia.com/store/en/miles-nadal-jcc/api/Activity/Detail?activityId=b6lXeYG)** 📞 **Or register by phone:** 416-924-6211 🔢 **Space is limited** to ensure quality play — once full, no additional participants can be accommodated. *** **🏀 Other Info:** • Basketballs are available for loan at the front desk with a $20 cash deposit and valid ID • All skill levels welcome — come ready to play and have fun • Games are self-organized with regular rotation for equal court time • Friendly, inclusive environment *** Come shoot, pass, dribble, and dunk your way into a great afternoon of basketball. We can’t wait to see you on the court!

❄️🌿 **St. Clair West to Yorkdale: A Winter Ravine-to-City Walk** 🌿❄️ **An easy, scenic winter walk you don’t want to miss** This is one of those walks that reminds you why Toronto is such a fascinating city — where nature, neighbourhoods, and everyday life all blend together. Join us for a **beautiful 90-minute winter walk** that takes us from leafy ravines to one of Toronto’s most iconic malls, all at a relaxed and social pace. ✨ We’ll start at **St. Clair West Subway Station** and head into the peaceful **Cedarvale Ravine Trail**, one of the city’s hidden winter gems. Snow-dusted paths, quiet trees, and fresh air make this the perfect way to enjoy winter without feeling overwhelmed by it. ❄️🌲 From there, we’ll continue along a trail that runs beside **Allen Road**, offering a surprisingly calm walk through the city’s infrastructure and green spaces. We’ll pass through **Wenderly Park**, a small but lovely park that connects communities, before making our way through the **Allen Centre**, a charming local mall that feels like a little pause in time. 🏙️☕ One of the highlights of this walk is moving through the **Lawrence Heights community**, an area with a rich and important history in Toronto. As we walk, you’ll get a sense of how the city has evolved — from postwar housing development to one of Toronto’s most talked-about neighbourhood revitalizations. It’s a walk that quietly tells a story, without ever feeling like a lecture. 💛 We’ll end our journey at **Yorkdale Mall**, where warmth, food, and good company await. Depending on time and group size, we’ll either sit down together at **The Cheesecake Factory** or keep things casual with lunch in the food court — either way, it’s a perfect, cozy finish after a winter walk. 🍽️❄️ This walk is **easy, social, and totally manageable in winter**, making it a great way to get outside, move your body, and actually connect with people — without rushing or pushing yourself too hard. 📱 **Don’t forget to join our WhatsApp group** – [CLICK HERE!](https://chat.whatsapp.com/H59mSCbsAi018gYANrKAnc?mode=ac_t) *** ### ❄️ Meetup Details ❄️ ⚠️ **Please Note:** This is a true winter walk. Don’t sign up if you’re not comfortable walking in cold or snowy conditions. ✔️ The walk happens in *almost* all weather ❌ The event will be cancelled only if it’s **-20°C or colder** 📍 **Meetup Location:** Outside **St. Clair West Subway Station in front of the** Loblaws — look for Mathew in his iconic **Moose Hat** 🫎 ⏰ **Meetup Time:** **11:00 AM** — I will only wait **5 minutes** (this is a firm 5 minutes because… winter ❄️😉) 💲 **Meetup Fee:** $5 cash in person **or** e-transfer to **mathewmaclean@hotmail.com** 🏁 **End Spot:** Yorkdale Mall *** ### 🧣 What to Bring 🧣 • Water • Good winter boots • Gloves & hat • Something warm to drink ☕ • A small snack • A friend, family member or guest *** 🚶‍♂️ **Can I Leave Early?** Absolutely — leave anytime you like. The walk could take up to two hours. *** 💛 **REMEMBER:** You can just show up — or decide on the day if you’re not 100% sure. ⚠️ **NOTE:** Sometimes things happen and plans may change — please keep an eye out for updates. *** 👤 **Organizer:** Mathew Questions? Post on the event wall or email **torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com**

Join us for a refreshing winter walk through the beautiful trails of **Sunnybrook Park**! This relaxed group walk is a great way to enjoy the season, get some light exercise, and connect with others who love being outdoors. We’ll explore scenic paths, take in snowy views (weather permitting), and keep a comfortable pace so everyone can enjoy the experience. Whether you come alone or with a friend, you’re welcome to join! **Other** We will wait for 15 mins and start walking at 1:15pm. Bathrooms are located near the parking lot, just before you enter the parking. **What to expect:** • Easy to moderate-paced group walk • Beautiful winter scenery • Friendly, social atmosphere • Great for clearing your mind and staying active **What to bring:** • Warm winter clothing, gloves & winter/hiking boots • Positive vibes 😊 Let’s get outside, and enjoy winter together! 🌲❄️ **Distance** \- 5 to 7km *(will adjust the distance based on weather and trail conditions)* **Difficulty** \- Easy but there might be some minor inclines/declines\. **Free Parking** **TTC** \- get off at Leslie and Eglinton and walk 9 mins to meeting spot\.

\*\*This event is currently full, but please reach out if you are interested, as sometimes we can fit you in or there is a last minute cancellation\*\* ❄️ **We’re heading just 2 hours north of Toronto Family Day Weekend for a cozy countryside winter getaway near Georgian Bay, near Midland, in the town of Victoria** \*\*\*\*Harbour!\*\*\*\*❄️🌊 Join our friendly, adventurous **WOOT** group for a long winter weekend filled with outdoor fun, snowy landscapes, and cozy evenings at a beautiful countryside cottage. This trip blends **winter adventure, nature, and connection** — beginner to advanced levels welcome! 🌟 *** ## 💲 Cost & Spots 💲 **$210 per person** \*\*🐦 **Early Bird: $200 if you RSVP by Tuesday, Jan 20\*\*** 🔢 **Spots:** 10–14 people 🐾 **Pets:** ✅ Pet-friendly cottage *** ## 💵 Additional Costs (Not included in the $200–$210 accommodation price) * 🚗 Gas contribution (calculated at end of trip) * 🍽️ Food for the weekend and optional meals in town * 🎿 Ski passes, rentals, and lessons * 🅿️ Any extra activities or parking fees **Important:** ✔️ Must be able to leave Toronto **no later than 5pm on Friday** ## 📍 Location We’re heading to a countryside farm property near **Georgian Bay**, close to: Victoria Harbour, Downtown Midland, Penetanguishene 🏔️ **Nearby ski resorts:** * Mount St. Louis Moonstone — *14 min drive* * Horseshoe Valley Ski Resort — *25 min drive* ## ❄️ Planned Activities We’ll split into groups based on interests and experience level (beginner to advanced). **Lessons available**! Activities may include:🎿 Downhill skiing🏂 Snowboarding🚴 Fat biking 🎿 Cross-country skiing❄️ Snowshoeing⛸️ Outdoor ice skating Plenty of time to relax at the cottage between activities. ## 🏡 Accommodation We’ll be staying at a **beautiful countryside home on a hobby farm**. Highlights include: 🌲 Open-concept, grand living room🪵 Soft pine wood ceilings & flooring🪟 Extra-large windows with sweeping farm views 🚿 **2 bathrooms** 📶 Wifi🧺 Washer & dryer Modern amenities throughout A perfect space for group meals, games, relaxing evenings, and cozy winter vibes. *** ## 🛏️ Sleeping Arrangements 💤 Every participant will have their **own bed** 👥 Expect to share a room with up to **2 people of the same gender** Private rooms are: ❤️ Reserved for couples ⏳ Or available on a **first-come, first-served** basis *** ## 🚗 Carpool Information We’ll depart Friday after work by **5pm latest** from multiple carpool locations around Toronto. * Passengers may need to travel up to 1 hour to meet their driver * Drivers will choose central pickup points * Drivers are fully reimbursed for gas at the end of the trip **Rebecca will coordinate:** 🚗 Carpool groups📍 Pickup locations⏰ Departure times ❄️ Activities *** ## 📝 RSVP Information (Important!) All participants remain on the **waitlist** until: 💰 Payment is received 📱 Your phone number is provided to the organizer To move to the **GOING** list, you must answer both RSVP questions: 1️⃣ What is your cell number? *(Private — organizer only)* 2️⃣ Transportation preference: A. Passenger 🚘 B. Driver (my own car) for X passengers 🚗 C. Prefer passenger, but can drive X if needed D. Driver but meeting at location (preference given to drivers who take passengers) ⚠️ Prompt replies required — unresponsive RSVPs may be moved down the list. *** ## 🔥 WOOT Score 🌲 Outdoors: 5🏔️ Adventure: 5🎉 Fun: 5✨ **Overall WOOT Score:5++** *(Only the best, most awesome WOOT trips get posted!)* Hope you can join us! **Rebecca (rphinn)**

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/arrowhead-2026-2)** ***Open for just a few weeks each year, come explore this famous, torch-lit skating trail in Arrowhead Provincial Park*** Step into the magical, famous and otherworldly Fire and Ice nights. Imagine skating through thickly-forested trails illuminated by innumerable tiki torches burning in stunning contrast to the winter chill. This is a must-try fairy-tale experience through the rich forests of Muskoka. Before skating begins, we'll head up to Arrowhead in the day and hike a couple of trails that showcase some of Arrowhead's most spectacular scenery. As the sun sets, we'll change into our skates and take to the ice. Skating in the park is suitable for people of all levels. Ice skates are available for rental (around $15) at the park. After a couple of hours skating, we'll head back home for a late arrival back in Toronto. **Depending on snow levels we may be required to use snowshoes or ice spikes. We have a limited quantity available that you can grab at check-out. Ice spikes are free to borrow and snow shoes can be rented for a small fee.** ***Adventurers are strongly encouraged to purchase Wilderness Union transport, as getting a parking pass for this event can be challenging due to its popularity. Please note that self-drivers are fully responsible for arranging their own passes and entry.*** **Highlights** **Night Skating:** Glide over winding, frozen trails with the night sky triumphantly shining above you. **Torch-Lit Scenery:** Take in the beautiful contrast of burning flames and shimmering ice as your path ahead is lit up by a warm, orange glow. ‍**Frozen Waterfalls:** The ultimate battle between gravity and cold temperatures plays out in dramatic fashion. **Event cost: $65+HST - optional transport available.** **Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/arrowhead-2026-2)** **About Wilderness Union** Wilderness Union is deliberate about building an outdoors community that connects you to the life-changing magic of the outdoors and helps you find your people. Members range from 20-40 years old. The group is a mix of GTA locals and newcomers to Toronto from within Canada and abroad. Attendance numbers on Meetup don't reflect our actual event attendance - we typically have 15-20 community members at each event. Large enough that there's someone new to meet but small enough that it's not overwhelming! ***Learn more at our website [www.wildernessunion.com](https://www.wildernessunion.com/)***

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/frosty-feb-social)** **February in Toronto is a real test of character (and Amazon Basics outerwear), so let’s get through it together!** Whether you’ve been hibernating since December or hitting the winter trails each week- aka walking down a Toronto sidewalk- it’s time to come in from the cold and embrace the warmth of our first social of 2026! This is the perfect chance to reconnect with old friends from past adventures and meet some new faces in our community. We’re taking over a private room at the Duke of York Pub in Yorkville to play games, share stories, plan outings, and enjoy some great company. * **The Goods:** Plenty of pub fare and a full range of drinks, including a great selection of non-alcoholic options. Veggie/vegan dishes will also be on offer! * **The Games**: We’ll have some totally optional card and facilitated games going * **The Logistics:** There is **a small $5 fee** to cover the venue’s cover charge and secure our space. ***Don't let the winter win - come hang out, get warm and meet the crew!*** **Event cost: $5+HST. Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/frosty-feb-social)** **About Wilderness Union** Wilderness Union is deliberate about building an outdoors community that connects you to the life-changing magic of the outdoors and helps you find your people. Members range from 20-40 years old. The group is a mix of GTA locals and newcomers to Toronto from within Canada and abroad. Attendance numbers on Meetup don't reflect our actual event attendance - we typically have 15-20 community members at each event. Large enough that there's someone new to meet but small enough that it's not overwhelming! ***Learn more at our website [www.wildernessunion.com](https://www.wildernessunion.com/)***

Our group will leave at the posted time, so please arrive early. Please cancel your RSVP if you can't make it. For those carpooling, please do not mark your passengers as +1s (since I'm adding based on the "vehicles" in attendance, not hikers). Just ensure that they're aware of and agree to SFH rules and regulations. Everyone will start on the waitlist, and some will be moved to the going list on Thursday (preference will be given to those that regularly enjoy hikes lead by me). How fast, how far? Assume 4.5 km/h for a distance of 6.75 km. Terrain is mostly flat, but it does have a small hill or two. So we'll replace the difficulty of climbing with speed. The route is a "there and back again", so we will finish where we originally start from. Bring water and wear good hiking/trail shoes or boots. RSVP'ing to all events: 1. [Liability Waiver and Group Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vR0LFNJVYn5j1AYl8eR63HjAxKMkRwg5ifKXqL3rP6Xl7v_Wcsx4xR_kNFluE3eILpSmP-EJ0OouQvT/pub) (updated 05/30/22) 2. When asked at RSVP time, indicate **\*Yes\*** if you agree to the question provided. 3. See general information about [Tick Safety](https://www.ontario.ca/page/lyme-disease)

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. ***\*\*\*\*\*\*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)

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.***

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/)**