Surf Camp

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. Tip o' the fedora to Willem Jansen for pioneering this route. This is a 7 mile lollipop hike with about 650' of elevation gain. Our route will take us through McLean and Arlington as we explore two tributary streams of the Potomac, and the remains of two Civil War era fortifications defending the Chain Bridge approach to Washington. From the Marie Butler Leven Preserve parking, we'll descend to Little Pimmit Run, merging into Pimmit Run. We'll take a short out-and-back side trail up to Fort Marcy before continuing on the Potomac Heritage trail to Chain Bridge. Upon reaching Gulf Branch, we'll follow that trail to the Gulf Branch Nature Center where we'll pause for a short snack break. We'll ascend to Glebe Road where we'll pass through the second Civil War fortification, Fort Ethan Allen, before returning to the Pimmit Run trail and back to the trailhead parking. Most of the hike is relatively flat, but includes a couple of short, steep, uphill sections. The natural surface portions of the route are narrow in spots and have many roots, and a few stream crossings. Poles may be useful. The parking lot at the starting point accommodates 12 cars. If it is full when you arrive, don’t park on Kirby Road, but in the Potomac Hills neighborhood, along Loch Raven Drive or Colleen Drive. No restrooms at the starting point; there is a porta potty at the rest stop. **Pace:** 2½ mph when moving. **Leader:** Steve Wiley, 571-345-6441 **Rating:** C **Dogs** are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) Please contact me if you plan to bring your dog. **Trailhead:** See at the Marie Butler Leven Preserve, GPS coordinates **38.929789, -77.146651**. **Meet at 9:15**. We hike at 9:30. You may also find it in your navigator by inputting 1501 Kirby Road, McLean. **Map for hike:** downloadable AllTrails route [Leven Preserve - Fort Marcy - Gulf Branch](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/leven-preserve-fort-marcy-gulf-branch-b16524e?u=i&sh=pkltl9) and a [Printable pdf of route](https://geppetto-cdn.production.alltrails.com/pdf/v2/leven-preserve-fort-marcy-gulf-branch-b16524e-429884ce.pdf)

Life will never be without its challenges. Knowing how to create a positive attitude can change a problem into an opportunity. By understanding and harnessing thought energy, you can improve the quality of your life and inspire others. **The workshop will cover:** * How your mind really works; * Understanding influences and the power of choice; * Developing positive self-awareness; and * Exploring the spiritual principles that sustain positive living. Fri., Jan. 23rd, 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm. Held at Meditation Museum, 9525 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring, MD 20910. Free Event – Register at: [https://shorturl.at/8kGW2](https://shorturl.at/8kGW2)

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. **6.8 mile Mercer Lake hike; with Burke Lake option 4.7 additional miles. Elevation is essentially zero.** **Description:** This gem of a hike seems to be a well-kept secret! This lovely lake is nestled in a residential area between **[South Run Recreation center](https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/reccenter/south-run)** and **[Burke Lake](https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/burke-lake/trails)**. Though there are many entrances to **Mercer Lake**, we will start our hike from \*\***[Burke Lake Volley Ball-Picnic area parking lot.](https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/sites/parks/files/assets/documents/waterfront/burkelake/burketrailmap.pdf)**[ ](https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/sites/parks/files/assets/documents/waterfront/burkelake/burketrailmap.pdf) \*\*Most of the **[Mercer lake trail](https://gohikevirginia.com/lake-mercer/)** is paved asphalt, with some sections of gravel. There are a lot of wooded views with a short stretch with lake views. There is the option of extending the Mercer Lake hike to include a loop around Burke Lake for anyone feeling up for the **challenge**! We will leave promptly at 9:30 am. **Fee**: Access to Burke Lake is **FREE** to Fairfax County residents and to many **affiliated local cities**. On weekdays there is no charge except for a few holidays during the warmer months. From April-October there is a $12 fee for out-of-county residents on weekends and a few holidays. **Restrooms**: there are facilities at the **Burke Lake Volley Ball Parking Lot** **Pace**: pace is about **2.5-2.7mph** while moving. **Bring:** adequate water/hydration, also snack/lunch, and sturdy hiking shoes since there are rocky areas, tree roots. **Dogs:** Dogs are welcome on this hike in accordance with the **[NVHC Dog Policy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy).** **Weather:** weather in this location is **[HERE](https://weather.com/weather/today/l/9ecb60da847d6a7e3f3929376fdc4ec227b11294ee2b4e867a880d79fe964887).** **Meetup Location:** When entering Burke Lake at, make your first right after the **Information center** and travel down to the **Volley Ball/Picnic area parking lot**. **Address**: 7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station 22039 **Location: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/burke-lake-park-location** **GPS: 38.760534, -77.305126**

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

**REQUIRED**: You must read the following information [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 a brisk morning workout. The hike is about 8.8 miles with 2600 feet elevation gain in SNP. We will start the hike by climbing 615 stairs on Buck Ridge. Once reaching SLD, we will take an out-and-back to Mary's rock. Return via Buck Hollow. We hike at a pace of **3-3.3 mph** when moving. **This is considered a fast hike**. The plan is to complete before noon so you can have proper lunch elsewhere. **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.** For those wishing to carpool, the suggested carpool location is at the Centerville P&R. The driving time from there to the trailhead is about 1 hour 10 minutes. Please arrive at the Park and Ride a few minutes before 6:50AM to form carpool so all cars can leave at 6:50AM. Suggested carpool fee is $7. 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: **Buck Ridge Trailhead at 8AM** GPS Coordinates: 38.659803739145936, -78.28179773950886 [https://goo.gl/maps/hgD9oLJWXvcC6K2N7](https://goo.gl/maps/hgD9oLJWXvcC6K2N7) Park Entry Fee: $0 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/1Q39SmtJXxhlCyLUI3Rr0Nr5gVsNmmc7v/view?usp=sharing](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Q39SmtJXxhlCyLUI3Rr0Nr5gVsNmmc7v/view?usp=sharing)

If you’re a dad over 35, you probably feel it: * Your energy isn’t what it used to be. * Work stress drains you before you even get home. * The weight has crept on around the middle. * Your kids still have endless energy, but keeping up with them feels harder every year. And deep down, you know your family looks to you as the example. If you’re running on empty, short on patience, and out of shape, that’s the standard you set at home. The **D.A.D.S. Program (Dads Achieving Discipline & Strength)** was built for men like you. Ordinary guys with jobs, families, and full schedules who want to: * **Reclaim strength** so you feel capable, athletic, and confident again. * **Boost energy** so you’re sharp at work and fully present with your family. * **Drop the aches, stiffness, and sluggishness** that make you feel older than you are. * **Find balance and accountability** by training alongside other dads in the same fight. * **Crush male loneliness** by connecting with men who “get it” and have your back. Here’s the best part: You don’t need to be a seasoned gym rat. This is designed for **beginner to intermediate exercisers**—dads who may have been out of the gym for years or have never had a structured program, but know it’s time to get serious. Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings, we’re hosting **Meet-Up Workouts from 6:00–6:45 AM.** No strings attached. Just one powerful hour that could be the turning point in your health, energy, and family life. There are only **8 spots available**, and once they’re gone, they’re gone. Location: Revolutionary Fitness - 215 N. Payne St., Alexandria, Va 22314 Every Monday, Wednesday, & Friday from 6:00–6:45 AM To claim your spot, call/text 703-783-2316 or email sign up directly at [https://go.thefitrevolution.com/dads](https://go.thefitrevolution.com/dads) Stop putting yourself last. Take this hour, and give your family the stronger, sharper, healthier version of you.

If your body don't bend that way and you want to join others in a gentle yoga class please join us on Fridays at 9:00am. **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 36,37,38,39.** The church is located across the street from the studio, on the corner of Duke St. and West St.

I'm excited to revive a DCUL tradition -- our annual potluck and "big trip" slideshow. You'll get to munch on tasty treats while seeing brief presentations from 2025 "big trips," including Tour du Mont Blanc, Nepal, the Wonderland Trail, and adventures in Colorado and Arizona. It's a great opportunity to socialize, meet other club members, and learn about trips that may be on your bucket list. And who knows--maybe a few plans for 2026 and 2027 trips, domestic or international, will take shape. This will be a potluck, so post what you're planning to bring in the comments. The building is easily accessible by metro—just two blocks from the Eisenhower metro or a short walk from the King Street metro. Limited street parking is available, but there are parking garages nearby.

Ruggers! Break out your swimsuits and join the coolest Special Olympics supporters in Northern Virginia. West Potomac RFC is once again coming together to support the Special Olympics Virginia athletes in making their Olympic dreams come true. We'll use my (Woj's) house as a staging ground for changing, bag storage, and general pre-gaming. Then, we'll walk down the street to take the plunge, toss a ball around, and hand out business cards to any potential new recruits. The team page is here: **https://impact.specialolympicsva.org/team/792944** **IMPORTANT:** by registering for the team, you're agreeing to raise/donate at least $25 by 1/26/2026, and, you'll need to raise/donate at least $100 to take the plunge itself. **Tentative Schedule** * 11:00 AM – Registration/check-in * 1:00 PM – Check in closes. Costume Contest. Awards Presentation * 1:15 PM – Official Plunge start time — the plunging won’t stop until everyone has had a turn. **Parking is available for free at Mosaic**. The preferred parking garages are: * Garage at Target, 2905 District Ave * Garage at the Avalon Apartments, 2987 District Ave * Garage at the Modera Apartments, 2920 District Ave. The event is also metro accessible via the Orange line to the Dunn Loring stop. The event is a very short taxi or car ride away.

Kickstart your year with Total Body Sculpt! Join us for an invigorating full-body workout designed to help you achieve your New Year’s fitness goals. This dynamic class will help set the tone for a healthier and stronger you. Level: All. Ages 13 & up; FREE **Lake Arbor Community Center** **[REGISTER THROUGH PARKS DIRECT](https://mdpgparksweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/search.html?Action=Start&SubAction=&_csrf_token=Pe0W6P6S0B17294F1R3B1Q4Q5D3Z5E58055O425I561C5I4R6G510H005P4N521J724Q4V6L02705P6N4S1A4Q60544B055T4S5D5V1K5O5Y5556196U3W5C4X6D734V56&age=0.25&age=0.5&age=0.75&age=1&age=2&age=3&age=4&age=5&age=6&age=7&age=8&age=9&age=10&age=11&age=12&age=13&age=14&age=15&age=16&age=17&age=Adult&age=Senior&primarycode=17681-179A&keyword=&keywordoption=Match+One&showwithavailable=No&spotsavailable=&beginyear=&instructor=&dayoption=All&display=Detail&module=AR&multiselectlist_value=&arwebsearch_buttonsearch=yes)** For fastest response to any questions, or for more information, please contact Health and Wellness directly via email [wellness@pgparks.com](wellness@pgparks.com)

Join the Ski and Sports Club of Washington DC (SCWDC) on the slopes this season. Show your interest or solicit roommates here on Meetup. **However, [TRIP REGISTRATION IS ON THE SCWDC WEBSITE](https://scwdc.wildapricot.org/Ski-Flight-Trips)**. Trips are open to paid SCWDC members ([see all club benefits on the SCWDC website](https://scwdc.wildapricot.org/membership)), or Blue Ridge Ski Council (BRSC) members. **ASK QUESTIONS directly to the TRIP LEAD on ea SCWDC TRIP page** Trip Prices Include: -**Planning and logistics handled by Trip Leaders** -All trips supported by experienced committee members and club leaders -Club founded in 1936 **-Group roundtrip air travel & ground transportation to the slopes** -Grocery stop, may be included -Ground transportation only (book your own flights), may be available **-All posted prices, Double Occupancy** -Specify preferred roommate during registration, if identified -Trip Lead assigns a same gender roommate if none specified -Private rooms available with the additional single supplement (SS) price **-Pre-Trip DMV social meet/greet, may be included** **-During trip daily social meet/greet, may be included** **-Discount lift tickets, at additional costs, from third-parties may be included**

**TRY AN OLYMPIC SPORT IN A FUN, BEGINNER-FOCUSED CLINIC!** Enjoy 15 minutes of off-ice basics, 50 minutes learning to sweep and deliver stones, then play a couple of ends with your group. Afterward, join us in the warm room for broomstacking (socializing) with your teammates and opponents. Limited spots available. **What to wear:** Clean rubber soled tennis shoes (required), loose/stretchy clothing (no jeans), and warm layers - ice ranges 32-40 degrees F. ***\*\*\*\*\*Ski Club Membership required for this event!\*\*\*\*\**** [Home - Columbus Ski Club](https://www.columbusskiclub.org/) Once membership is established - follow below link to sign up for Curling: [Curling Clinic - Begin to Curl - Calendar - Columbus Ski Club](https://www.columbusskiclub.org/content.aspx?page_id=4091&club_id=686961&item_id=2793520)

Join Sacred Sound Alchemy Columbus for a transformative Sound Bath experience that will take you on a journey of self-discovery and healing. Immerse yourself in the powerful vibrations of various sound instruments like crystal singing bowls and rain drums, carefully orchestrated to balance your chakras and uplift your spirit. The soothing sounds will help you release negative energy, reduce stress, and promote deep relaxation. This event is perfect for those seeking a moment of tranquility and a chance to connect with their inner selves. Whether you are new to sound healing or a seasoned practitioner, you will benefit from the harmonious frequencies that will resonate with your body and soul. Come and allow yourself to be enveloped in a wave of healing energy, leaving you refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready for life's next chapter. Please bring something comfortable to lay on like a yoga mat. Being a pillow for your head or for under your knees and a blanket to cover over yourou. The library can get cold. Bring some water to help flush your body for after the session.