Trail Building and Maintaining
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South Texas Off Road Mountain-Bikers - Rides & Events
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Bike Rock Creek Trail: Lake Needwood
**Rock Creek Trail: Starting at Lake Needwood**
**\*\*Check back to see if the date or start time has changed. This ride will be postponed (possibly replaced with another ride) if the chance of rain is above 49%, or wind speed or wind gusts are above 15 mph (per Accuweather) \*\***
**NEAREST TRAIN OR BUS STOPS**
unknown
**PARKING ADDRESS**
Lake Needwood
15700 Needwood Cir Dr.
Derwood, MD 20855
**PARKING AND MEETUP SPOT**
Park at Lake Needwood Lot A, closest to the trailhead. You can also park at Lot B or C then bike over to meet us at A, at the trailhead kiosk. After check-in, we’ll do an icebreaker question.
**BIKE ROUTE SUMMARY**
Join us for a scenic, relaxed, and beautifully shaded ride starting at Lake Needwood in Rock Creek Regional Park. We’ll roll out on a smooth, paved trail that winds through quiet forests, gentle curves, and peaceful creekside stretches — perfect for riders who enjoy nature, steady pacing, and great conversation along the way.
The route follows the Rock Creek Trail south toward Beach Drive, offering a mix of open views, wooded canopy, and the calming sound of Rock Creek running beside us. This is one of Montgomery County’s most beloved trails for a reason: it’s serene, well‑maintained, and feels like a true escape from the city.
Riders can expect:
· A comfortable, mostly flat paved trail with a few gentle rises
· Shaded riding for most of the route
· Smooth pavement with only occasional rough patches
· Light to moderate trail traffic, depending on the day
· A mid‑ride break at Beach Drive, where we’ll regroup, hydrate, and enjoy the scenery
· A relaxed return ride back to Lake Needwood on the same beautiful path
This ride is ideal for social cyclists, newer riders building confidence, and anyone who wants a scenic, low‑stress outing. Expect friendly company, a steady pace, and plenty of nature along the way.
Note: Visitors can only bike around a portion of the lake due to the trail not going all the way around. We’ll be taking the Rock Creek Trail from the parking lot down to DC.
**TYPE OF BIKE:** Any kind of bike frame and tires. Ensure it is the correct frame size for your height so you can get maximum output. Participants are responsible for ensuring their bike tires, brakes, and chain are in good condition and they have a spare inner tube on hand. Organizers can try to help but aren't responsible for everyone's bike conditions.
**SKILL LEVEL:** All levels can enjoy this trail. It is well marked and mostly flat.
**PACE:** It’s up to you. Paved trails have a speed limit of 15 mph. We make stops at tricky points on the trail and /or to regroup every 2-4 miles. Since paved trails can sometimes be crowded, we don’t have expectations of being able to go very fast.
· If you prefer a **faster pace** than the lead riders, you can make stops to wait for them to catch up.
· If you’re **not sure what your avg. speed** is, be prepared to use a nav app to ride solo in case you don’t catch up to us at our stops.
**DISTANCE OPTIONS**
Participants can choose to return at any point. These are just suggestions.
**OPTION A:** Short and scenic 3 miles down to just south of the MD‑28 underpass **What it’s like:**
Perfect warm‑up ride, Smooth pavement, shaded, quiet, Great for newer riders or anyone easing into the season, No major hills, and you stay entirely within the most forested part of the trail
**OPTION B:** C**lassic Needwood Ride — \~7.5 miles down (15 miles round‑trip) . Turnaround:** Beach Drive (Montgomery County section) **What it’s like:** This is the “signature” Needwood ride, Beautiful creekside views, Long, uninterrupted paved sections, Mid‑ride break at Beach Drive (picnic areas + restrooms), and Ideal for social pace groups
**OPTION C:** **Strong Intermediate — \~10 miles down (20 miles round‑trip). Turnaround:** Farther south on Beach Drive toward the DC line **What it’s like:** Adds more rolling terrain, Still mostly shaded, You’ll experience the most scenic part of upper Rock Creek, Great for riders who want a longer workout without going into DC, Weekend riders may enjoy car‑free Beach Drive sections.
**OPTION D: Longer Adventure — 12–15 miles down (24–30 miles round‑trip). Turnaround**: Anywhere between the DC line and Peirce Mill What it’s like: A true endurance ride, Mix of quiet wooded trail + lively urban‑park energy, Optional stop at Peirce Mill for water, restrooms, and shade, And Best for riders comfortable with longer distances and more trail traffic
**BATHROOMS**
**Lake Needwood Boat House / Boat Center** *Permanent restrooms (seasonal hours)*
**Picnic Areas 1, 2, and 3** *Typically have seasonal restrooms or porta‑potties* (Example: Picnic Area 3 is confirmed in search results.)
**Meadowside Nature Center (near Needwood, short spur off trail)**
**Rock Creek Regional Park Picnic Areas (between Needwood & Norbeck).** Some picnic groves have seasonal restrooms or porta‑potties
**Beach Drive Picnic Areas (Montgomery County section).** Multiple picnic groves with **seasonal restrooms or porta‑potties.** These are typically open spring–fall. Located near the trail and easy to access
**BIKE RENTALS**
NA
**BIKE REPAIR**
Rockville Bike Hub
**FOOD & DRINK INFO**
TBA
**OPTION TO SOCIALIZE AFTERWARDS**
Picnic by the lake
**RECOMMENDATIONS**
**Bring:** Water bottles, snacks, biking gloves, bike bell, bike lock, helmet visor, sunglasses, bike tube, pump, patch, first aid kit, mobile phone with nav app installed (e.g. Google maps, we use RidewithGPS). If you get leg cramps during or after a ride, take electrolytes before and during your ride (or add salt and magnesium to your water). A change of clothes for your ride home or a car seat cover to absorb sweat.
Clothing: Wear biking gloves and durable clothing so that if you do fall, your skin is protected. Avoid wearing all black, all grey, all dark brown, or all dark blue, which blends in with pavement, especially while riding through a shady segment. Consider wearing something lighter to help others notice you.
**REQUIREMENTS**
**Participants must wear tightly secured helmets when on their bike.**
**Be proactive to avoid a fall/crash and minimize injury:**
· Keep a distance between yourself and other bikers. If the biker ahead of you suddenly stops, you should be able to avoid hitting them.
· Don’t make stops on the trail. Pull over to the side and use hand gestures to let people know you’re slowing down to make a stop.
· Yelling out “Passing on your left” and/or ringing a bike bell as you approach people ahead of you, so they don’t inadvertently move in your line of travel.
· Slowing down to wait, rather than speeding up when trying to pass people at the same time walkers/bikers are approaching you from the opposite direction.
· Avoid potholes and debris and slow down when approaching bumps
· When approaching road crossings and iffy situations, triple-check before crossing and don’t let yourself be distracted by talking, etc.
· Ensure your helmet is tightly secured so that it won’t move if you hit the ground.
**MEETUP POLICIES**
Participants should understand that biking is an inherently dangerous activity, and an accident could happen at any time. **Participation is at your own risk**.
An RSVP of “Yes” to an event is your digital signature acknowledging that you have read, understood, and agree with Meetup’s and MD Rail Trail Biking’s policies, esp. section 6 “Release” and section 8.2 ” Limitation of Liability,” found at [https://www.meetup.com/terms/](https://www.meetup.com/terms/)
E-biking From Washington Sailing Marina to Fort Foote with E-bike Lovers.
[https://ridewithgps.com/routes/34803272 ](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/34803272)
This trail is 22 miles long. Toilets are at the beginning, end, and near the middle of the route. There are plenty of opportunities to find a restroom elsewhere along the route.
**PDF with points of interest and more details**
https://ebikelovers.com/2021/01/23/trail-2-virginia-and-maryland-e-biking-from-washington-sailing-marina-to-national-harbor-fort-foote-and-old-town-alexandria-waterfront/
This trail is 22 miles in flat terrain with a fantastic view from the Woodrow Wilson Bridge and a lovely picnic area at the Potomac River.
We arrive at 10:00 AM and leave at 10:15 AM. The meeting place is at the parking lot on the left near the public restrooms of the marina.
The group stops a few times for slower riders to catch up. The distance will be 22 miles or shorter any time you are fully satisfied with biking for the day.
Our bikes will always be in our sight. No additional locks are required to keep your bike safe on this trip.
As usual, non-assisted bikers are most welcome.
**About Jones Point Lighthouse**
The lighthouse is one of the last riverine lighthouses in the country and the only one still standing in the Chesapeake Bay area. It was first lit on May 3, 1856 by keeper George L. Deeton.
Today it is the focal point of Jones Point Park and a clue to area's history as a busy commercial center and naval base.
Whale oil lamps were originally used to power the beacon at Jones Point, but in 1858 the Lighthouse Board allowed an Alexandria gas company to extend lines to the station.
The land included one of the original District of Columbia boundary stones, which was installed by George Washington and marked the southern point of the ten-mile-square district.
The stone is still visible today in the seawall just south of the lighthouse, and to the north of the lighthouse a marker designating the boundary between Maryland-Virginia can be seen.
**About Fort Foote**
Fort Foote was constructed in 1863 atop Rozier's Bluff to strengthen the ring of fortifications that encircled Washington, D.C. Two of the Guns that protected Washington are still there along with the remains of the fort's earthworks.
**About the Woodrow Wilson Memorial Bridge**
Also known as the Woodrow Wilson Bridge or the Wilson Bridge, the bridge is a bascule bridge that spans the Potomac River between the city of Alexandria, Virginia, and Oxon Hill in Prince George's County, Maryland. The original bridge was one of only a handful of drawbridges in the U.S. Interstate Highway System.
**About National Harbor**
National Harbor is situated on the banks of the historic Potomac River, just minutes from the nation’s capital. Featuring 350 acres of waterfront resort space, National Harbor is a destination unlike any other. The harbor is home to 160 stores, 40 restaurants, the Capital Wheel, and the best sunsets in the area.
**Free Ride With GPS for E-Bike Lovers**
Membership of the Ride With GPS E-bike Lovers club is now free as www.ebikelovers.com is generating sufficient income from ads to cover the costs.
Here is the link to activate your free membership:
https://ridewithgps.com/auto_approve/Club/6746/Zwa5jhttF5mJrFbN
**More information about using GPS files:** https://ebikelovers.com/2021/03/15/download-our-trails-and-never-get-lost/
**More information about e-bike ranges:**
https://ebikelovers.com/2020/12/31/e-bike-longer-and-happier-15-smart-strategies-to-reduce-your-e-bike-range-anxiety/
**DISCLAIMER**
LIMITATION OF LIABILITY: TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMISSIBLE PURSUANT TO APPLICABLE LAW, NEITHER GREGORY MAASSEN, NATHAN MERRIS, TRIP COORDINATORS, THEIR AFFILIATES, FAMILY AND FORMER AND CURRENT EMPLOYERS NOR ANY OTHER PARTY INVOLVED IN CREATING, PRODUCING, OR DELIVERING E-BIKE LOVERS GUIDES, OUR MEETUP EVENTS, AND THE GPS E-TRAILS IS LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, INDIRECT, EXEMPLARY, OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF A USER’S ACCESS TO, OR USE OF THE E-BIKE LOVERS GUIDES, OUR MEETUP EVENTS, AND THE GPS E-TRAILS.
See for full disclaimer: https://ebikelovers.com/disclaim
4-mile Rock Creek Park and Pierce Mill hike
This is a 4 mile, beginner friendly hike through Rock Creek park that will start at the Woodley Park metro station and end at the Van Ness metro station. The majority of the hike follows the Rock Creek, Zoo Loop and Western Ridge trails with views of the water of Rock Creek along the way. We will take a break at Pierce Mill – a water-powered gristmill that was built in 1829 - and hikers will have some time to look around the historical site. Public bathrooms are available near our break spot. After the mill, we will continue onto the Soapstone Valley trail and finally exit Rock Creek Park near the Van Ness Metro station. The route is mostly paved until we enter the Soapstone Valley trail which is unpaved. In the last mile, we will criss-cross a shallow stream a few times. There will be some uphills and downhills throughout the hike but they are not strenuous and our pace will be relaxed.
The hike will begin at the Woodley Park-Zoo Metro Station, finishing at the Van Ness-UDC Metro Station.
Led by Cherrelle Dacon and Peg Barratt for the AMC Potomac Chapter
Handy Bikes | Sunday Casual Ride | Every-other-week
Similar to our "Beginner Ride", a casual, on-road-avoiding, cycle-path-winding, beginner friendly, group ride.
The ride will be led by Maya and Angie, who have a combined 50 years of cycling experience.
This is a no drop ride with an average speed of 7- 12 mph.
Please bring a helmet, lights, a snack, hydration and wear appropriate clothing for cooler weather (cotton is not your friend in cooler temps and we will be riding in the dark).
The ride can be tailored to the skills that attendees want to master, i.e- drinking from water bottle while riding, making tight turns, riding in a small group and cycling etiquette.
We will be riding mainly on trails, streets as minimally as possible, and sidewalks only when necessary. This ride is perfect for someone who hasn't ridden in a while and wants to get some easy miles on the saddle; not just for newbies.
If you have not ridden your bike in several weeks, months or years, please have a safety check done before the day of the ride.
We are just here to have fun.
Trail Building and Maintaining Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Sundays In The Park series
We meet on Sundays at 8 a.m. for training runs on some of DC's best trails, including Rock Creek Park and the surrounding area. We typically meet at either Peirce Mill in Rock Creek Park, or Roosevelt Island, depending on the route.
Details of the weekly schedule can be found here: https://new.vhtrc.org/runs/sip
We hope you can join us for a run! All paces and levels of trail experience are welcome for these runs, which range in distance from 6 to 9 miles.
Take a Hike! @ Riverbend Park
**Make new friends and enjoy the great outdoors** on a 4.2-mile loop hike from Riverbend Park to Great Falls Overlook and back, with an optional **lunch at Mookie’s BBQ afterward**. This hike offers a great mix of outdoor adventure and social connection, giving you a chance to enjoy nature while meeting others who share your love for the outdoors.
We’ll start at the Riverbend Park parking lot and follow a scenic trail through the woods with a few small inclines, then on the return from the Overlook we'll follow the trail along the Potomac River. The route winds through peaceful woodlands and scenic riverside paths, leading to the stunning Great Falls Overlook 2. This is an **easy-to-moderate hike**, with mostly flat terrain and a few gentle inclines, making it accessible to a wide range of fitness levels. The hike will take about **2.5 to 3 hours**, offering plenty of time to enjoy the views and good company.
Afterward, join us for lunch at **Mookie's BBQ** located at 1141 Walker Rd, Great Falls, VA 22066. It’s the perfect way to relax, socialize, and share stories with fellow hikers.
Whether you’re here for the scenery, the exercise, or to connect with like-minded people, this outing promises to be a memorable experience. Spots fill quickly, so don’t wait to sign up!
**Meeting Time & Location:**
We’ll meet at **9:30 AM** in the Riverbend Park parking lot. Please refer to the map pin for the exact location.
**Distance:** 4.2 miles
**Elevation Gain:** 302 feet
**Difficulty:** Easy (a few gentle inclines)
This hike features natural, well-maintained trails that are mostly flat, with a few easy-to-walk uphill sections near the beginning. The wide and smooth paths make it easy to walk and chat with others along the way. With minimal obstacles and straightforward navigation, this hike is an excellent choice for anyone seeking an enjoyable and manageable outdoor adventure.
**Estimated Duration**
This hike is expected to take approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.
**Pace:** Moderate Pace
We'll walk a steady, comfortable pace that’s manageable for most hikers with a reasonable fitness level. Breaks are regular but not overly frequent, allowing for a balanced experience of exercise and enjoyment.
**Parking**
We’ll park at the **Riverbend Park parking lot**, which has ample spaces and serves as the starting point for our hike. Please check the event map for the exact location to ensure you arrive at the correct lot.
**Trail Map (AllTrails)**
[Take a Hike! (DMV) - Riverbend Park (Great Falls Overlook 2)](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/take-a-hike-dmv-riverbend-park-26dd0db?u=i&sh=ylk43q)
Preview the hiking route on AllTrails to get familiar with the terrain. Download the map in advance to follow along and stay on track during the hike.
**Dogs on the Trail**
For everyone’s comfort and enjoyment, we kindly ask that you leave your dogs at home for this hike. Thank you for understanding!
**Restrooms**
Restrooms are available at the Riverbend Park Visitor Center and at the Great Falls Visitor Center.
**Lunch After the Hike**
Join us after the hike for a casual lunch at **Mookie's BBQ**, 1141 Walker Rd, Great Falls, VA 22066 - (703) 759-2386. It’s a great chance to relax, enjoy a meal, and connect with fellow hikers.
**Waitlist Policy**
To keep things fair, hikers will be moved off the waitlist in this order:
**1\. Regular Hikers:** Those who join hikes often get first priority.
**2\. Past Hikers:** Next are returning hikers, based on attendance and cancellation history. Frequent cancellations may lower priority.
**3\. New Hikers:** New members will be added as space allows.
Hike: Appalachian Trail, Black Rock Cliffs, Annapolis Rocks, MD
(Bus hike) This section of the AT accesses some of the most striking features of the Maryland section of the trail, including the \*other\* Washington Monument. Long hikers start at Wolfsville Rd. and end at the parking area for the monument, with options to go on spur trails for Black Rock Cliffs and Annapolis Rocks. Moderate hikers start at the I-70 parking area close to the bridge, first doing a there-and-back to Annapolis Rocks and then going south to the monument parking area. Easy option available. Est.: 12 miles, 1800' elevation and 8 miles, 1300' elevation. PATC Map 5. 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 am.
* [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 (30 min/mile) pace. New hikers are required to first complete a moderate hike with us.
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 Frida**y before the hike**. If you change your RSVP after twelve noon on the Friday before the hike, a refund will not be issued (but a 'rain-check' may be possible).
Cancellations to Metro/carpool/trailhead hikes will not issue a financial refund, but hikers are implored to change their MeetUp RSVP to NO so that leaders do not wait for them at the trailhead.
**FLU, COVID-19, and RSV 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)
Easy Hike: 2-3 miles Lake Artemesia
**Lake Artemesia Walk – College Park**
Join us for a relaxed, easy-paced walk around beautiful Lake Artemesia. A chance to unwind, enjoy nature, and connect with others in a calm, welcoming setting.
We’ll walk the scenic loop, take in the lake views, and enjoy light conversation along the way. All fitness levels are welcome.
**Main parking lot:**
**55th Ave & Berwyn Rd**
College Park, MD 20740
Bring plenty of water, whatever you need for your hike, and your awesome authentic self. Keep it easygoing.
RELEASE OF LIABILITY & ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT:
By being a member of this Group, RSVPing to any Activity, or participating in any Activity, You accept and agree to the terms and conditions described below:
1. You acknowledge that hiking in nature carries the risk of potential harm to yourself, including the risk of injuries such as broken bones or muscle/tendon injuries, illness, disability, or death.
2. You agree that You will at all times be responsible for Yourself and Your own safety.
3. You release and hold harmless with respect to all injury, disability, death, or loss of property, whether caused by negligence or otherwise, this group's leadership and members for the hikes that you participate in.
4. You acknowledge and agree that this Group is merely a collection of friends or potential friends who enjoy doing activities, and that in no event does any Organizer or Other Member assume any responsibility or liability for You.
5\. You agree not to sue and to release\, discharge\, waive and hold harmless all organizers and other members from and against all liabilities\, claims\, demands\, losses\, damages\, suits and proceedings\, for negligence\, carelessness or any other cause which you may have or that hereafter may accrue arising\, resulting from or related to your membership in this group or participation in any activity\.
Kayak at Patuxent River Park
*Update: As of 5/31, all of the kayaks/canoes are reserved. We can only accept those who have their own kayaks.
In April, I led a walk at this park through the forest. Now, we are headed back but to the water to kayak the Patuxent River.
To participate, you must first register through **[ParksDirect](https://mdpgparksweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/search.html?display=graphical&module=RN&primarycode=PRP%20Rentals&_csrf_token=Vk6K030V0O093O2Z1Y3Q3Z5M5C59725S0Y5M4W5E441O6W5U5A5I015F474O5G6N595Y5G6H6A044K51551S5S4K4R4E1T695I6N57054J655B511H605Z584N6L603X4S)**.
1. Create an account
2. Click on the* "Browse" *tab and see* "Boat Rentals" *and click* "Patuxent River Park"*
3. Reserve your kayak or canoe online by searching for June 7th and selecting the vessel of your choice. Choose a 9:00am start time.
4. There are 10 single person kayaks, 2 two-person kayaks, and 5 canoes. When all the kayaks/canoes are reserved, we have reached our attendee limit.
5. Bringing a friend/partner? You will need to add them as a "family member" on ParksDirect.
**When you make your reservation, message me to show that you have reserved a kayak/canoe. Then, I will move you from the *Wait List* to *Going.***
We will see some great water vegetation and birds, along with turtles and some fish. We will stop for lunch by pulling up to a small beach and dock with a picnic area at Mount Calvert Historical & Archaeological Park. Make sure to pack lunches and valuables in sealed bags "just in case."
Then we'll head away from the main river and down the western branch. Total time on the water will be approx. 4 hours. Please be in physical shape to paddle for 4+ miles. Bring sun block, a hat, sunglasses, and water. Wear footwear that can get wet (water shoes preferred). You are required to wear a life jacket (provided) the entire time on the water.
Costs: You will pay for your kayak via the ParksDirect website (33); The Adventuring's trip fee is 5; and, pay your carpool driver $3.
Meet at 8:30 a.m. at the Kiss & Ride lot of the Largo Metro station or at 9:05 a.m. at the Visitor's Center parking lot. Afterwards, those who are interested will stop for lunch on the way back.
Please click [here](https://adventuringlgbtq.com/Adventuring_Release_Form.pdf) to review our release form. When you RSVP to an event, you affirm that you have read and agree to the terms of the release.
The Potomac Ramble - with long option
Arrival: 8:45 AM
Start Pedaling: 9:00 AM
We have two options for this scenic ride through Potomac and Poolesville (long ride), a 61.6 and 41.6 mile ride. The details are the following:
Ride Details
Ride A
Distance: 61.6 miles
Terrain: Rolling hills Total Climb: 3,569 ft
Max Grade: 7%
Surface: Paved roads and bike paths
Avg. Pace: 15 to 16 mph
Recommended Bicycle Type(s): Road
Route Map: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/40374762
There is a nice coffee shop (K2 Cafe) around mile 29.2 to stop and rest.
Ride B
Distance: 41.6 miles
Terrain: Rolling hills
Total Climb: 2568 ft
Max Grade: 6.1%
Surface: Paved roads
Avg. Pace: 13 to 15 mph
Recommended Bicycle Type(s): Road
Route Map: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/1453550
At the corner of Darnestown and Seneca at mile 19.2 is a good place to stop and rest. There is a convenience store and gas station across the street.
Post Ride Lunch: We will meet for lunch at The Irish Inn at Glenn Echo (http://irishinnglenecho.com/). Given the varying distances, our meeting times for lunch will vary from 1:00 to 2:00.
**Note:** All persons participating in the activity accept and/or assume any and all risks of injuries (physical or otherwise) arising from and/or associated with this activity.
What to Bring
• Helmet - Mandatory!
• Liquids - And plenty of them!
• Photo ID
• Cell Phone
• Money - Cash or credit card for food or emergency
• Bicycle Emergency Kit - (cash, mini tool, inner tube, CO2 cartridge or hand pump, etc.) Bike lock
Other Things to Keep in Mind.
• If you change your RSVP to "not going" within 2 hours of the event start time, please call or text the event host.
• No go if conditions are bad. This includes precipitation (rain, hail, sleet, snow, ice) or very high probability of precipitation.
Questions & Contact Info
As always, if you have any questions, you may email the organizer(s) for the event or post your question as a comment. The cell numbers for the event organizers will be emailed to you the day before the event.
Beginner Level: Casual Brunch Group - The Falls
**Casual Brunch Group (CBG, get it?): A series of weekend rides with brunch as a feature.** Some rides will be beginner rides (shorter), some will be medium (longer), all will be Casual pace. Bring a bike lock.
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
**The Ride: Summary**
**(Must Read)**
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
* RIDE NAME: Casual Brunch Group - The Falls
* START LOC: near front of Shirlington Library
* START GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/y1K7iBorEgsTWBpaA](https://goo.gl/maps/y1K7iBorEgsTWBpaA)
* START PARKING: Any Parking Garage
* ARRIVAL: 10:30am
* SPEECH: 10:45am
* ROLLING: 11:00am
* LEVEL: Beginner Level
* PACE: \~12+mph
* DISTANCE: 14 miles
* TERRAIN: trail, local streets
* RIDEWITHGPS ROUTE: CBG_BRUNCH_FALLS_2026
[https://ridewithgps.com/routes/55508784](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/55508784)
**NOTES:**
* Bring a spare tube.
* Bring a bike lock.
* Brunch in the middle of the ride: The Falls
* [The Falls](https://www.thefallsva.com/?y_source=1_NDE3NjcwMDktNzE1LWxvY2F0aW9uLndlYnNpdGU=)
**The Ride: Detail**
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It's a classic ride from Shirlington west on the W&OD as we try another Falls Church restaurant, The Falls \~7 miles out on Broad Street. Here we will enjoy a nice brunch. There are tables outside where we can also park our bikes nearby. The good news (after riding uphill all the way to The Falls) is that the hardest part of the ride is over. It is mostly downhill all the way back to Shirlington. **On the way home, if the roses are still blooming, we will stop and see the Rose Garden, located here:** [Bon Air Rose Garden](https://maps.app.goo.gl/rBPWo6AMiLrXe6jTA)
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**The Meeting Spot:**
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Shirlington Library
4200 Campbell Ave
Arlington, VA 22206
GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/y1K7iBorEgsTWBpaA](https://goo.gl/maps/y1K7iBorEgsTWBpaA)
**We will meet in front of the Bearded Goat**, next to the Shirlington Library.
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**Brunch**
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
**The Falls**
370 W Broad Street, Falls Church, VA 22046
[703-237-8227](https://www.google.com/search?q=godfrey%27s+falls+church&sca_esv=d62f6f0fe79c7edb&sxsrf=ANbL-n65pWp2ZXOqfrK2xiUODobrrC5fkQ%3A1778962076142&source=hp&ei=nM4Iap7_Bdij5NoP0pieoAQ&iflsig=AFdpzrgAAAAAagjcrLR1G0Nbq5xsEGUXmw8_eWa5kJSH&gs_ssp=eJzj4tVP1zc0zDHMLTGoqLQwYLRSNaiwsEwyTzI1tTA2t0w2MzVPszKoME0zNU5JNkyzSDQwTUxMM_cSS89PSStKrVQvVkhLzMkpVkjOKC1KzgAAak4Xww&oq=&gs_lp=Egdnd3Mtd2l6IgAqAggAMg0QLhjHARivARjqAhgnMg0QIxjwBRieBhjqAhgnMgcQIxjqAhgnMgcQIxjqAhgnMg0QIxjwBRieBhjqAhgnMgcQIxjqAhgnMg0QIxieBhjwBRjqAhgnMg0QIxieBhjwBRjqAhgnMg0QIxjwBRieBhjqAhgnMg0QIxieBhjwBRjqAhgnSKIMUABYAHABeACQAQCYAQCgAQCqAQC4AQHIAQCYAgGgAgSoAgqYAwTxBSrFNQd2xrDXkgcBMaAHALIHALgHAMIHAzItMcgHA4AIAQ&sclient=gws-wiz#)
website: [Thefallsva](https://www.thefallsva.com/?y_source=1_NDE3NjcwMDktNzE1LWxvY2F0aW9uLndlYnNpdGU=)
menu: [The Falls](https://www.thefallsva.com/menus/?y_source=1_NDE3NjcwMDktNzE1LWxvY2F0aW9uLm1lbnVfdXJs)
location: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZeToDv911b2XB2VW6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZeToDv911b2XB2VW6)
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
**Ride Level Chart**
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NoVA CBG tries to accommodate all levels of cyclists by offering different types/levels of rides. We just ask that you come to the ride that suits your current riding ability the best.
* Introductory Level: If you haven't ridden a bike in a number of years (or are uncertain of your abilities on a bicycle).
* zBeginner Level: You can ride for 10+ miles at a pace of 10+ to 12+ mph with potentially minor hills involved.
* Medium Level: You can ride for 20+ miles at a pace of 13+ to 15+ mph with potentially moderate hills involved.
* Advanced Level: You can ride for 20++ miles at a pace of 15+ mph with potentially major hills involved.
Both Medium and Advanced Levels might require handling various challenges such as reading cue sheets, using a Garmin or navigation app, night riding, out of town travel, or any other odd cycling situations.
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
**The Fine Print:**
**+++++++++++++++++++++**
An RSVP of 'YES' is your digital signature and means you have read and understood MEETUP.com's:
* "Terms of Service : Section 6. Release" found at https://www.meetup.com/terms/
* NOVA-CBG's "Assumption of Risk Agreement" found @ https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/pages/1942951/NOVA-CBG_Waiver/
* NoVA CBG's "COVID Policy" found @ http://bit.ly/2021_NoVACBG_COVID19_POLICY
Helmets are required to participate in all NOVA-CBG rides. All riders ride at their own risk and with the understanding that cycling is an inherently dangerous activity. When coming to the meetup you do so voluntarily and are ready and able to participate in the ride as described under the conditions of the day. Be on time for the "pre-ride" preparation. If you do not attend the pre-ride preparation you will not be allowed to participate on the ride. There are NO exceptions to the above.
...........
Trail Building and Maintaining Events Near You
Connect with your local Trail Building and Maintaining community
Nailed It! - DIY Meetup
Grab a drink or some food and get to know each other. This is our first event and we can take it slow. I’d love to meet everyone and hear if there’s anything you like to get out of the group.
Looking forward to meeting you all!
Microsoft Build - Columbus Edition!
We are bringing Microsoft Build sessions to Columbus Ohio!
The Central Ohio Azure Meetup and Central Ohio .NET Developer's Group (CONDG) are coming together to bring some of the labs and breakouts from Microsoft Build to your backyard. In this free, 1 day event, you are going to Build stuff with us!
And yes, there will be free food. So please RSVP for a head count!
Blendon Woods Metro Park
Hi Ladies , Let's Hike Blendon Woods Metro Park .
We will meet at the nature center parking lot.
Hiking about 4 miles completing the blendon woods loop and the sugarbush trail .
Wear appropriate footwear and bring water for hydration .
How to Get Over Losses and Betrayls & Build Lasting Relationships
Join us for this free, in person meeting on the subject of betrayals, losses and how to get over them so you can build lasting relationships.
Do you want more motivation and confidence to build lasting relationships?
Are you burdened by a stressful relationship?
Unhealthy relationships can trigger feelings of anger, despair or self-doubt. They can create dwindling spirals of fights and seeking to make-up, or trying to “pin the blame” on someone or something. If you don’t find the RIGHT reasons, or select the correct sources of the problem, the problem can just get worse and worse.
Whether in love or personal ties, with friends or at work, our life really IS affected by the quality of our relationships. Good ones can promote pleasure and survival, while less optimum ones can lead to annoyance, anger, self-doubt, stress, or even affect our health and ability to survive well.
Whether you are suffering from a divorce, or a painful break-up, don’t know who to trust (or who to CHOOSE) as a partner, friend, boss or employee - the anxiety of relationship troubles can really make a mess of things. Maybe you’ve suffered a betrayal, or are dealing with hostility or criticalness or invalidation. Dwindling relationships can involve destructive behavior, where we hurt those we love, or start succumbing to self-destructive thoughts, attitudes or behaviors that spiral out of control and affect much more than our immediate relationship.
Past losses in love or life can affect how we act or react to new people and situations and hold us back from even starting to create new, possibly great relationships! How can one get back onto a saner course of action?
Come to our Meetup, where we can introduce you to some of the knowledge, tools and techniques of the breakthroughs in the field of the mind that we can apply to this ever important area of life: human relationships!
Break free from self imposed limitations
Here we will discuss:
• How to “erase” the trauma of past hurts and betrayals so that one isn’t always repeating past mistakes.
• Why and how do the negative emotions of others affect you?
• Why is my partner withdrawing and what can I do about it?
• Why do we sometimes feel compelled to hurt the ones we love?
• Fights & arguments - what's really behind them?
• What underlies “corrosive criticism” or the need to invalidate self or others?
• How one can stably change one’s outlook on life so they can affect positive change?
• Where do compulsive destructive behaviors come from and what can be done about them?
• How to form closer bonds & keep growing the relationships with the people you care about?
• How to enhance one’s own ability to survive and create positive healthy relationships whether in love, family & friendships or in work, business or one’s career?
Relationships can be hard and life itself IS challenging. Why not arm yourself with the knowledge and breakthroughs that have been made about the mind, mental reactions & interpersonal relationships, so that one has better awareness and control over themselves and life in general.
Learn where painful experiences are “stored” and how they can unknowingly affect us. You will also find out how one can “erase” those past painful experiences so that one is free to move forward without being tripped up by the past. Learn too, about what can lead some people to become “toxic” personalities and how to identify those traits in others so you won’t be tripped up trusting the wrong person.
Our free Meet-ups occur in a safe environment where one can learn, without fear of judgment or criticism, and without the recommendation of harmful mental techniques or therapies, just how YOU can get yourself onto a happier & more successful path: in love & in life.
We look forward to having you join us!
This class is held at the Dianetics and Scientology Life Improvement Center of Central Ohio.
Bike Ride - Pickerington Ponds to Three Creeks to Three Creeks
**Weather permitting**, we’ll take a casual ride from Pickerington Ponds (Glacier Knoll) to Three Creeks and back.
Distance is **18–25 miles**, depending on where we turn around and whether we add a side loop.
Pace is around **12 mph**, but this is a fun, no‑drop ride — we can slow down as needed.
Here’s the **map** showing Glacier Knoll (bike), Confluence Park (flag), and BrewDog: [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit..](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit..).
Text or call Scott at **614‑975‑4458** if you’re coming.
Columbus ski club membership not required for this event. CSC assumes no responsibility for the event or any injuries as this is organized by a third party.
Sharon Woods HIKE
Hi ladies. Let's hike the Edward Thomas, Spring Creek, and a little multi-purpose trail - approximately 4 miles so please wear your shoe of choice.
Please bring a water bottle as needed and appropriate shoes. Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area.
Starting and Maintaining Relationships
This is a free in-person meeting.
Let's talk about relationships in such a way that you can really benefit from the knowledge.
We can talk about
* Soulmates
* How to start a relationship
* How to maintain a relationship
* How to pick the right partner
* How to recognize the red flags
* How to improve communication
* How to avoid argument and fights
* How to increase trust
You ask the questions, we'll talk about them.
Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there.
This group is sponsored the Dianetics & Scientology Self-Improvement Center.





























