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Trail Running

Meet other local people interested in Trail Running: share experiences, inspire and encourage each other! Join a Trail Running group.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! Check out trail running events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.

Discover all the trail running events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.

Absolutely! Find trail running events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.

Trail Running Events Today

Join in-person Trail Running events happening right now

Wednesday Crystal City Run: 50 min
Wednesday Crystal City Run: 50 min
For the Wednesday run, let's meet at 1750 Crystal Dr (Entrance by Morton's Steakhouse) before walking over to the Crystal City Water Park and run on the Mt. Vernon Trail alongside the scenic Potomac River. LOCATION: Meet at 1750 Crystal Dr (Entrance by Morton's Steakhouse). Link to location on map: http://i.imgur.com/3yN0lwN.jpg NOTES: Photos taken during the event may end up on Instagram, Meetup, Strava and similar platforms. Let's meet at 6:50 PM, leaving by 7:00 PM. We will do 50 minutes, so 25 minutes out and 25 minutes back. You're welcome to do more if you'd like. Just before the run we decide whether we'll go NORTH (DC) or SOUTH (Old Town) on the trail. Once we're done, we meet back up at the Crystal City Water Park area. After the run please feel free to hangout and socialize with the group or join us at Highline RxR in Crystal City (National Landing) for a beverage and/or food. https://g.co/kgs/AErMQZ All paces are welcome! We run by time, not speed so bring a watch to monitor your time and turn around at the halfway time point. If you need to run/walk, that's ok! We average anywhere between 7-13 minute/per mile pace. First Time? Start out slow to find someone around your pace. The different paces tend to automatically gather, so you won't be alone! Metro: Crystal City on Blue/Yellow lines, 2 blocks from metro exit. Parking: There is plenty of free parking inside the garage directly across from the Crystal City Water Park. Post-Run: A lot of times we have a little social outing after the run. You can bring a change of clothes if you'd like (though most people just go as is). We'll finish up the run, meet back at the Water Park, pick up our wallets and walk to wherever we decided to go for a beverage and/or food. If you have a suggestion for a place to check out, let us know!
Key-Chain Bridge Loop - With Rosslyn Metro Start Option (Rating: B)
Key-Chain Bridge Loop - With Rosslyn Metro Start Option (Rating: B)
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 a 11.2 mile loop hike with about 300' of elevation gain. We will depart at 9:30 am (please be there by 9:15) from the East end of Gateway Park in Rosslyn, near the Gateway Park sign along Lynn St. (38.89798, -77.06770, 2 blocks North of the Rosslyn Metro Station). From there we will take the Custis/Mount Vernon trail down the zig-zag bridge across the George Washington Parkway to the Potomac Heritage Trail where the real fun begins. For those that are driving, the parking lot for Roosevelt Island (off the right side of the westbound G.W. Parkway (38.89730,-77.06748) is big, but crowded when the weather is nice, but there is generally turnover around 8:30. Park there, and take the zig-zag bridge up to Gateway Park to meet up with the group. Once we are all assembled, we will take the Potomac Heritage Trail westbound where we will catch 90% of our 300ft of inclines, and there are a lot of rock scrambles (and is therefore unsuitable for dogs). We will continue westbound until we reach Chain Bridge where we cross the Potomac and take a combination of the C&O Canal Towpath and the Capital Crescent Trail back eastward. These easy flat trails bring us back to the Key Bridge, which we will cross back to Rosslyn (around the 9 mile point) the metro riders may choose to bail out, but I plan to complete the hike with a 1.5 mile loop around the most politically incorrect and least visited monument in DC, with a trip around Roosevelt Island, including its boardwalk. After Roslyn, there are not proper facilities until we reach Fletcher's Boathouse (halfway down the C&O Canal). I am not sure if the facilities on Roosevelt Island are open, but they are not really close enough to the parking area for pre-hike use. I generally maintain a 2.5 mph pace on the flats, but do get waylaid by good photo ops (there will be plenty). There is a mix of sun and shade on the DC/MD side, and mostly shade on the VA side, but sunscreen may be in order, and water definitely will be needed, so bring plenty. We will stop for a lunch break at Fletcher' Cove (cold drinks and possibly ice cream can be purchased there), and we will also make a brief stop at the TR Island Manliness Monolith. Dogs are NOT permitted due to rock scrambles. Leader: Dale Johnson (540-454-5592 (off during business hours)) Meet: Gateway Park in Rosslyn, near the Gateway Park sign along Lynn St. (38.89798, -77.06770), 2 blocks North of the Rosslyn Metro Station. Rating: B – See NOTE below Please NOTE, this is a DIFFICULTY RATING, not a “Fun” rating or a “Scenery” Rating. These are not YELP Stars. The System assigns a point per mile and a point for every 400 feet of altitude gained. 0-7 pts = “D”; 7-10 pts = “C”; 10-13 pts = “B”; 13-19 pts = “A”; over 19 pts = “A+”. This hike is 11.2 miles & 300 ft for a about 12 pts. If you cannot walk 12 miles around your neighborhood with only brief breaks, don’t sign up for this “B” hike because “it got good reviews," and while mostly level the rock scrambling is legit, with some hand-over-hand climbing involving railings to assist in bouldering is required.
Old Town Herndon Happy Hour Run
Old Town Herndon Happy Hour Run
Start at the old train depot. After the run, we'll meet at Mile 20 for a drink! Run starts at 6:45 pm we will head toward Sterling tonight. Run at your own pace out and back. 2 mile runners turn around at Crestview Drive. 3 mile runners turn around at Tamarack Court. 3.5 & 4 - No cross streets in this stretch. You're on your own. :-) 5 mile runners - turn around at Sterling Blvd.
GII Peloton Bike Winter Workouts
GII Peloton Bike Winter Workouts
🌍 JUST GUTSY — Solo Travelers Meetup (Washington DC 4PM local time)
🌍 JUST GUTSY — Solo Travelers Meetup (Washington DC 4PM local time)
**No pressure. No plans. Just new friends ✨** Whether you’re visiting Washington DC for the first time, just arrived, or simply love meeting curious, open-minded people, this bi-weekly **Just Gutsy** meetup is an easy way to share stories, make friends, and explore the city together. **Who it’s for?** • Solo travelers • Expats & digital nomads • Locals who love meeting travelers **What to expect?** ✨ Relaxed, **self-led** gathering 🤝 Small group energy 🌍 Travel stories, tips & shared adventures 🍹 Grab a drink or snack if you like **How it works?** This is a self-led meetup, meaning I set it up for you but the magic happens between you. To make sure everyone finds each other smoothly, please follow these simple coordination steps: 1️⃣ **RSVP** Thoughtfully If you’re planning to come, tap “Going.” It helps others feel confident joining and builds momentum before the meetup. Even if you’re 80% sure, RSVP. If your plans change, please update your RSVP so others aren’t expecting your attendance. 2️⃣ **Confirm 2 Hours Before** (Essential) To ensure the meetup runs, please comment on this event page at least 2 hours before the start time: “Confirmed for today 😊” This allows everyone to see, ahead of time, who is actually coming. The meetup moves forward when at least 2 people confirm 2 hours before the event. If fewer than 2 confirmations are posted by then, attendance may be low that day. This avoids anyone showing up uncertain. 3️⃣ **Signal Your Arrival** When you arrive, comment on this event page: “Arrived” + where you’re sitting + what you’re wearing Example: “Arrived. Sitting outside near the entrance. Wearing a black t-shirt.” This ensures everyone can easily find each other. Recognition Tip Having a clear profile photo on Meetup is highly encouraged — it makes recognition effortless and helps the group form faster. **When & Where?** 📅 Day: Every Tuesday & Saturday 🕓 Time: **4:00 PM local time** 📍 Meeting point: In front of **Compass Coffee.** **Arrive on time,** smaller groups make it easier to connect. **Why join Just Gutsy?** • Meet open-minded people who genuinely want to connect • Feel at home anywhere in the world • Be part of a growing global solo travel community • Early members get lifetime premium access to the future Just Gutsy app 🚀 Join here 👉 https://justgutsy.com/ WhatsApp: After attending, you’re welcome to join the Washington DC Just Gutsy WhatsApp group to stay connected and suggest spontaneous meetups: 👉 https://chat.whatsapp.com/KwwHR0npG3aB8VykYjN3hw **About Just Gutsy** **Just Gutsy** is a global community for solo travelers who are free spirited, love exploring the world believe that real connections make the best memories. Hi, I am Syrine, I started solo traveling in 2018 and it changed my life, from introvert to extrovert. Along the way, I loved meeting people, but also felt how hard it can be to find connection when traveling alone. I’m building Just Gutsy so no one has to feel alone on the road — and so anyone who’s still shy to take that first step has a welcoming place to start. 💛
Kensington MD Walk
Kensington MD Walk
We'll meet at the Wheaton Metro Station near the intersection of Georgia Ave and Reedie Drive. We'll walk Southwest toward Saint Paul's Park and then back east on Plyer's Mill Road back to the Metro. Total walk time should be about 1 hour 30 minutes and total distance is about 4.5 miles.
🌟♠️🌟 3rd Wednesday Spades in DC@Nando's in Navy Yard - Posted in 10+ Groups
🌟♠️🌟 3rd Wednesday Spades in DC@Nando's in Navy Yard - Posted in 10+ Groups
♠️😲♠️ W.O.W. Spades Night ♠️😲♠️ Washington on Wednesday (W.O.W.) - 3rd Wednesday Spades in DC 🌟Spades in DC! 😀 Hang out with a friendly and welcoming group. Meet new people and have a great time! ✅️ No partner needed! Find one onsite. All skill levels are welcome. 📌 Nando's Peri-Peri Chicken - Navy Yard 300 Tingey St SE #150, Washington, DC 20003 ❤️ **Posted in multiple groups. So, expect a nice crowd.** 🚌 One block from Navy Yard Metro Station 🚗 Street and Garage Parking available. 🍷 Alcoholic beverages are available! 🍗 Please support the business by purchasing food/drinks. 🌟 The fun starts at 5:30pm! RSVP today.

Trail Running Events This Week

Discover what is happening in the next few days

Take a Hike! @ Turkey Run (shorter version)
Take a Hike! @ Turkey Run (shorter version)
**Details** Get ready to hit the trails at Turkey Run - this is a shorter version of our Turkey Run hike at just 3.6 miles. This hike is a bit challenging, with a couple of **stream crossings**, and a couple of **significant elevation gains** (a total of 377 feet of elevation gain). Ideal for **intermediate hikers**. The trail includes shallow stream crossings, adding some fun technical elements along the way. We’ll take regular breaks to regroup, hydrate, and enjoy the scenery. **Hiking shoes are a must -** the trail is slippery, and the extra grip of hiking shoes is essential for safety. Also, don’t forget your **hiking poles**; they’ll be helpful at the stream crossings. After the hike, join us for a social gathering at **Chiang Mai Thai Cookhouse (6828 Old Dominion Dr., McLean)** to unwind, grab a bite, and enjoy time with fellow hikers. **Meeting Time & Location** Meet at 9:30 AM at Turkey Run’s Parking Lot C-1. **Distance:** 3.6 miles **Elevation Gain:** 377 feet **Difficulty Level:** Intermediate Hike (challenging stream crossings) This hike features moderate inclines and **challenging stream crossings** over slippery rocks. Hiking poles are recommended for added balance and stability. **Estimated Duration:** 2.5 hours This hike is expected to take approximately **2.5 hours**, which accounts for breaks, stream crossings, and group pace. **Pace:** Moderate Pace 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** Park in Turkey Run’s **Lot C-1,** where there's plenty of room for all. Grab a spot, lace up, and get ready to hit the trail! **Trail Map (AllTrails):** [Take a Hike! @ Turkey Run (north)](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-july-28-2025-ee492a6?u=i&sh=ylk43q) **Bathrooms** There are no bathrooms available on this hike. Please plan accordingly. **Age Requirement:** Children under 18 are not permitted. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. **Dog Attendance** For everyone’s comfort and enjoyment, we kindly ask that you leave your dogs at home for this hike. Thank you for understanding! **Lunch After the Hike** Join us for a casual lunch at **Chiang Mai Thai Cookhouse (6828 Old Dominion Dr., McLean)**. Free parking is available in the garage off Beverly Rd.
Track Thursdays
Track Thursdays
3 mile run in N. Kensington
3 mile run in N. Kensington
We start our new run on the intersection of Woodson Ave. and Soward Dr. promptly at 6:05pm. There is street parking on Soward and Woodson. This route will take us through the Rock Creek Palisades Neighborhood near Albert Einstein High School. STARTING AND ENDING POINT http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/7/d/9/600_457062969.jpeg FULL ROUTE: http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/7/e/7/600_457062983.jpeg
Sunday Homes Run: 45 min. Run
Sunday Homes Run: 45 min. Run
We run 45 min, goal is 4-5 miles easy run everybody welcome
Sundays In The Park series
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.
Thursday Run: Ballston to Custis Trail
Thursday Run: Ballston to Custis Trail
Come join other guys in their 20s and 30s for a friendly group run. This run is not competitive and all skill levels are welcome. Join our [Slack](https://join.slack.com/t/arlington-run-club/shared_invite/zt-2lq70wa9t-INw_xk~MnZM~U41EQsKcXQ) to keep up to date with the group! **MEETING SPOT:** We'll meet a little before 6:30 PM at Ballston Local on N Glebe in front off the restaurant. See the pin below. Parking at the mall is only $1.00 after 6:00 PM. Then we'll head out right at 6:30 PM and eventually end up back where we started. **ROUTE INFO:** Here's our regular Thursday route, from the Bluemont Junction Trail to the W&OD Trail to the Custis Trail (about 4 miles): [https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/5952134599/](https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/5952134599/) When viewing the route, you may want to login with a MapMyRun account and bookmark the route so you can load it later from the MapMyRun app on your phone. **POST-RUN:** After the run, we'll grab a drink nearby for those who are interested in sticking around. **WEATHER:** We won't run in the middle of a thunderstorm, but we'll still go if there's light rain. Many of us will plan to meet at the start time regardless and we can make a call then. We've learned that the weather can change quickly, so there's not much point in canceling the run prematurely. **RSVP:** If you are interested in joining, please join the group and then sign up for this event so we know you're coming. You're welcome to bring a friend -- all guys in their 20s and 30s are welcome -- but please have them sign up through Meetup or shoot us a message so we know how many people to expect.
Sunday Morning Long Run
Sunday Morning Long Run
Come out and run with us along the shady Anacostia Tributary Trails! These runs tend to be longer than our other club runs. Average mileage is 4-6 miles, but some members might go farther (and others shorter). We meet in front of Mission BBQ at 8:00AM for introductions, then walk over together to the Indian Creek Trailhead. We are always happy to welcome new faces (and feet)!

Trail Running Events Near You

Connect with your local Trail Running community

Return of the Coffee Trail Part 2
Return of the Coffee Trail Part 2
Trails & Ales! Slate Run Metro Park / Loose Rail Brewing
Trails & Ales! Slate Run Metro Park / Loose Rail Brewing
**History** [Slate Run Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/slate-run/), located south of Canal Winchester in Pickaway County, has roots tracing back to the early planning efforts of the Columbus and Franklin County Metropolitan Park District. In 1963, Metro Parks officials identified the land along Slate Run as having strong potential for a large metropolitan park due to its expansive acreage, diverse habitats, and natural features like the stream that gave the area its name. The largest stream in the vicinity, Slate Run, flows south to northwest through a ridge, providing a logical basis for the park's designation. Between 1964 and 1968, Metro Parks acquired approximately 1,662 acres through multiple parcels, including a key 212-acre farmstead that had been continuously operated since 1805. This acquisition phase positioned Slate Run as a future major addition to the system, following the openings of other parks like Sharon Woods in 1968 and Highbanks in 1973. The park officially opened to the public in 1981, marking it as the sixth Metro Park in the district and, at the time, the largest with its substantial land holdings. From the outset, Metro Parks envisioned incorporating a living historical farm to educate visitors about 19th-century Ohio agriculture. The focal 212-acre parcel, purchased from the White family heirs in 1964, included historic structures that made it ideal for this purpose. The park's development preserved natural areas such as grasslands, wetlands, meadows, and forests while integrating interpretive elements. Upon opening, Slate Run quickly became a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Central to the park's identity is the Slate Run Living Historical Farm, which interprets life on a typical Ohio farm in the 1880s. The gothic revival farmhouse on the site was constructed in 1856 by owner Isaac Fridley and later restored by Metro Parks for historical accuracy. Visitors can explore interiors like the living room, parlor, and kitchen, where interpreters demonstrate period activities. The multi-bay barn, built in 1881 by Samuel Oman (the fourth owner), was meticulously restored with help from Amish carpenters. Heirloom animals such as Percheron horses, pigs, geese, and turkeys inhabit the farm, enhancing the immersive experience. The historical farmstead reflects a long lineage of ownership and agricultural use dating back to the early 19th century. Continuous farming on the land since 1805 made the site authentic for recreating late-19th-century practices, including grain harvesting and animal husbandry. Metro Parks focused on authenticity by restoring original buildings and introducing period-appropriate methods, such as horse-powered threshing machines from the late 1880s. The farm operates with volunteers and staff in period attire to portray daily rural life. This educational component has drawn school groups and families for decades. Today, Slate Run Metro Park spans about 1,705 acres and attracts roughly 250,000 visitors annually for its blend of natural preservation and historical interpretation. The park maintains diverse habitats supporting wildlife like nesting sandhill cranes and reintroduced northern bobwhite quail. Trails and open spaces offer opportunities for hiking and observation amid the preserved landscapes. The Living Historical Farm remains a crown jewel, continuing to teach about Ohio's agricultural heritage. Ongoing programs and restorations ensure the site's relevance for future generations. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Slate Run](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/SLR-parkmap@2x.gif). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Five Oaks, Sugar Maple, Covered Bridge, Shagbark, and Lake Trails. This will be around 4.5 to 5 miles. While Slate Run is moderately strenuous in a few places, it's generally a good place to hike and doesn't seem to wear people out. Some spots on the hike are unshaded, though, so be prepared for the possibility of some sun. I find Slate Run to be very underappreciated for the quality of its hiking. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet at the [Shady Grove Picnic Area](https://www.google.com/maps/place/39%C2%B045'30.1%22N+82%C2%B050'13.2%22W/@39.758347,-82.83701,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m4!3m3!8m2!3d39.758347!4d-82.83701?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDIxMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). You can use the map pin I've provided here; it's accurate. There's a latrine at Shady Grove, but there is no running water (no water fountains). We will pass a water fountain when we get to the Buzzard's Roost Picnic Area, although I can't guarantee this fountain won't be off for the winter. I'd recommend bringing some water just in case, at least for after the hike. I'd also recommend [hiking shoes](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D972KN3W) for this park. **After the Hike** Once we're finished at Slate Run, we'll head over to [Loose Rail Brewing](https://looserailbrewing.com/) for [drinks](https://looserailbrewing.com/canal-winchester-canal-winchester-loose-rail-brewing-drink-menu) and [food](https://looserailbrewing.com/canal-winchester-canal-winchester-loose-rail-brewing-food-menu). The brewery's actual address is [37 W Waterloo St, Canal Winchester, OH 43110](https://www.google.com/maps/place/37+W+Waterloo+St,+Canal+Winchester,+OH+43110/@39.8432511,-82.8071032,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88387be3ac496d83:0x23e8ee9d9391dd6b!8m2!3d39.8432511!4d-82.8071032!16s%2Fg%2F11cp8n8x1j?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDIxMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), and it's about 10-12 minutes from Slate Run. We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.
Hike Blendon Woods Metro Park
Hike Blendon Woods Metro Park
Hi ladies. We will meet in front of the Nature Center and head to the two Observation decks. We will then hike Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook and Sugarbush trails to get approximately four miles total distance. We will walk approximately a 18 minute mile pace. Please wear appropriate hiking shoes.
Sharon Woods HIKE
Sharon Woods HIKE
Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area. If trail conditions are poor, we will use the Multipurpose Path.
Free yoga
Free yoga
Brunch Club: Make New Friends
Brunch Club: Make New Friends
⚠️ **IMPORTANT: You must sign up and buy a ticket here to attend:** [https://groupvibe.com/](https://groupvibe.com/) **Join the Columbus City Brunch Club and make new friends!** Each meetup brings together 4–6 people for casual conversations over brunch. We use the Groupvibe platform to facilitate the meetup and ensure everyone’s a good fit. 👉 **To attend, you’ll need to complete registration via this link:** [https://groupvibe.com/](https://groupvibe.com/) We’ll share the exact location of the upcoming meetup the night before only if you have bought a ticket or membership plan. **Why this works:** \* Smaller groups make real conversations easier. \* Discover new restaurants in your city, together. \* Curated lunch venues with good food and vibe. \* If you hit it off with your group, there’s plenty of time to hang out afterwards. **Note:** RSVPs on Meetup don’t reflect total attendance. Many attendees register directly via our website. The event on [Meetup.com](http://meetup.com/) is only a placeholder. This meetup is organized by Groupvibe, a small team passionate about helping people form meaningful friendships offline.
Ultimate Frisbee at Whetstone
Ultimate Frisbee at Whetstone