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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

Tuesday Run: Rocklands to Custis Trail
Tuesday Run: Rocklands 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 Rocklands BBQ (3471 Washington Blvd, Arlington, VA 22201). Then we'll head out right at 6:30 PM. **ROUTE INFO:** Here's our updated Tuesday route with the new starting and ending location at Rocklands (3.25 miles): [https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/5149157872/](https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/5149157872/) For those who want a slightly shorter route, you can end by turning down Quincy Street and running around Quincy Park (3.0 miles): [https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/5149206700/](https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/5149206700/) When viewing the route, you may want to login with a MapMyRun account and bookmark the route. Then you can download the MapMyRun app on your phone, login to the same account, and go to your bookmarked routes so you can follow along during the run. **POST-RUN:** We'll grab a drink and some food at Rocklands BBQ 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're interested in joining, please join the group here 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.
"Track" Night Tuesday
"Track" Night Tuesday
\*\*\*Note: We have temporarily moved off of the UMD Track and are meeting at Herbert Wells Ice Rink (Same location as Thursdays) for our speedwork. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Join us for a structured speed workout! If you are new to running, just getting back into it, or checking out the club for the first time, this a great first workout to join. All paces and abilities welcome. A pre-determined workout will be announced at the beginning and participants can adjust the workout to meet their needs and level. Workouts are usually planned by time, rather than distance, which helps accommodate the wide variety of paces that we have and allows the group to stick together. Warm-up starts at 6:30pm. Children are welcome, if accompanied by a responsible adult. **Parking information:** Free parking is available; park nearest the trail (farthest from the ice rink)
Weekly 6:30 pm Shirlington Running Club Tuesday Run at Dudley's
Weekly 6:30 pm Shirlington Running Club Tuesday Run at Dudley's
EVERY TUESDAY @ 6:30 PM at Dudley's Sport and Ale! We're a FREE club for all those interested in both running and socializing. The SRC meets every Tuesday at 6:30 PM at Dudley's Sport and Ale in the Shirlington Village, in the back corner towards the outdoor patio, near the Shirlington Animal Hospital. The SRC was founded in 2009 by VA residents Mirentxu Meyer and Shirley Santos, for like-minded people with social interests. Inspired by our founders, the goals of SRC are to promote fitness and build a sense of community. With currently over 2,800 people who've joined over the years, the SRC meets every Tuesday evening at 6:30 PM at Dudley's Sport and Ale to run a 5K summer route (6K in the winter), and hosts a post-run happy hour by savoring the flavors of Shirlington’s Dudley's Sport and Ale and socializing! In addition to fostering a community and family feel, SRC brings its members together throughout the year with other neighborhood events, sport activities, and volunteer opportunities. We welcome all levels of runners, from the beginners to the experienced marathoner, at all ages, and from all locations. What a better way to get a work out in and meet new people with like interests in the area! The SRC hopes to see you this Tuesday night, rain or shine! For more information please visit our FB page at [Shirlington Running Club \(The SRC\) \| Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/groups/81217012155). And check out here for our Spring/Summer/Fall and Winter routes: [Run Routes Photos (meetup.com)](https://www.meetup.com/meetup-group-kgwsbcbj/photos/33093848/)! In terms of parking there’s a parking lot behind Dudley’s, and even if that fills up there's a number of parking garages in Shirlington - [ShirlingtonDirectory_0721 (villageatshirlington.com)](https://villageatshirlington.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/ShirlingtonDirectory_0721.pdf). Also, Also, if you look at 2774 S. Quincy St. on [Google Maps](https://goo.gl/maps/ohBvhwewsTzZVQi97), there is a parking deck with spots open on the top level which is accessible from S. Quincy St.
Medium Level (B-Group NFT 15): Tuesday Night Ride (TNR) - Arlington Triangloop
Medium Level (B-Group NFT 15): Tuesday Night Ride (TNR) - Arlington Triangloop
**Tuesday Night Rides (TNR) B-Group Edition with Ryan, Dave, Bruce, Ronne, & Renee** As you may have heard, our illustrious TNR leader Ryan is sporting a repaired knee and is in recovery mode. We are recasting the TNR as a **B-ride!** (**no faster than a 15mph** pace). **++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride: Summary** **(Must Read)** **++++++++++++++++++++** * RIDE NAME: Tuesday Night Rides (TNR) B-Group Edition - Arlington Triangloop * START LOC: Shirlington Library * START GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/GXU2cMAG7672](https://goo.gl/maps/GXU2cMAG7672) * START PARKING: Any Garage in Shirlington * ARRIVAL: 6:00pm * SPEECH: 6:15pm * ROLLING: 6:30pm (or earlier if everyone is present) * LEVEL: \*\***Medium\*\*** * PACE: \*\***no faster than 15mph\*\*** * DISTANCE: 16 miles * TERRAIN: Trail / Street * RIDEWITHGPS ROUTE: **CBG_TNR_ARL_TRILOOP_CW_2026** **[https://ridewithgps.com/routes/30568466](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/30568466)** **++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride: Detail** **++++++++++++++++++++** For your riding pleasure NoVA CBG presents: Tuesday Night Rides (TNR) B-Group Edition - Arlington Triangloop We'll start in Shirlington and doing the Arlington Triangloop!! This is the Medium level ride because we're going to keep a pace of 13-15mph on flat stretches (slower on hills) and the total distance is approximately 16 miles. This is a NO DROP ride so you will not be left behind but you are expected to try to keep a B-Group level pace (13-16mph). **++++++++++++++++++++** **The Meeting Spot:** **++++++++++++++++++++** Shirlington Library 4200 Campbell Ave Arlington, VA 22206 GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/GXU2cMAG7672](https://goo.gl/maps/GXU2cMAG7672) We will meet directly in front of the library by the fountains. **++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride After The Ride:** **++++++++++++++++++++** We’ll head to Samuel Beckett’s after the ride for a drink and food. We sit outside so we can bring our bikes and keep an eye on them. Join us if you like! **++++++++++++++++++++** **Ride Level Chart** **++++++++++++++++++++** 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). * Beginner 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/ Helmets are required to participate in all NOVA-CBG rides. NO exceptions. 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. Again, no exceptions.
SHORT NOTICE: Medium Level: The Koffee Klatch Ride: Pitango Gelato & Coffee
SHORT NOTICE: Medium Level: The Koffee Klatch Ride: Pitango Gelato & Coffee
**SUMMER STARTING TIME & SOUTH BLUEMONT STARTING POINT** **++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride: Summary** **(Must Read)** **++++++++++++++++++++** * RIDE NAME: The Koffee Klatch Ride: Pitango Gelato & Coffee * START LOC: South Bluemont Parking Lot * START GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/2sMA3jhGSgdS4fJj9](https://goo.gl/maps/2sMA3jhGSgdS4fJj9) * START PARKING: Playgound/Shelter Parking Area (with Restrooms) * ARRIVAL: 10:00am * SPEECH: 10:10am * ROLLING: 10:15am * LEVEL: Medium * DISTANCE: 19.5 mi * PACE: 11-13 mph (Social Pace) * TERRAIN: Trail / Street / Cycle path * RIDEWITHGPS ROUTE: CBG_KOFFEEK_PITANGO_2026 * https://ridewithgps.com/routes/55510009 **Notes:** * ***PITANGO IS NOT CHEAP and doesn't take cash*** * This ride is organized "lean" and may not have a sweep. * Pump your tires on the morning of the ride, please. * It is strongly suggested that you become a NoVA CBG RidewithGPS club member and download the route posted for each "Klatch". * Loading the route onto your Garmin (or other Nav device) is also acceptable. * **NoVA CBG has a turn by turn RideWithGPS club account that's free. [https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/events/271742916/](https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/events/271742916/)** **++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride: Detail** **++++++++++++++++++++** Welcome to The Koffee Klatch! These rides are normally based off the Arlington Loop, where we visit different area coffee shops or bakeries for a cup and/or treat if desired but you don't have to drink or even like coffee to participate. This week we will again do a loop to Old Town Alexandria to try and beat the heat on the first 100°F day of 2025!!! The ride is a 19.9 mile medium level ridden at a social pace (11-13 mph). We will get on the W&OD from the Bluemont Tennis Parking Area to the 4MRT at Shirlington, then the MVT and ride to Old Town to enjoy Gelato or Sorbet with our Caffè in feels like 99°F weather. Afterwards we will ride back to the starting point via Wilkes St tunnel, Columbus St, Cameron St, and the Commonwealth bike lane; through Del Ray on Monroe St, Dewitt St, and the Mt Jefferson Park Trail at Stewart St. When we get to Four Mile Run we will head though Shirlington on the 4MRT to Carlin Springs Rd where we get back on the W&OD. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Meeting Spot:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** Bluemont Park (Tennis Parking Area) Wilson Blvd & N Manchester St Arlington, VA 22203 GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/6VkzVaS72LKGn9nr5](https://goo.gl/maps/6VkzVaS72LKGn9nr5) * We will meet in the parking lot. * This location has Restrooms * Diagonally across from the Bon Air Park Rose Garden **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Koffee Within The Ride:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** Pitango Gelato (Alexandria) opens at 8 AM 115 S Union St Alexandria, VA 22314 [https://www.pitangogelato.com/location/old-town/](https://www.pitangogelato.com/location/old-town/) **+++++++++++++++++++++** **Ride Level Chart** **+++++++++++++++++++++** 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). * Beginner 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](http://meetup.com/)'s: * "Terms of Service : Section 6. Release" found at [https://www.meetup.com/terms/](https://www.meetup.com/terms/) * NOVA-CBG's "Assumption of Risk Agreement" found @ [https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/pages/1942951/NOVA-CBG_Waiver/](https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/pages/1942951/NOVA-CBG_Waiver/) * NoVA CBG's "COVID Policy" found @ [http://bit.ly/2021_NoVACBG_COVID19_POLICY](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.
The Admiral
The Admiral
Brisk, 3- to 4-mile urban hike starting and ending at The Admiral on Dupont Circle. We will hike to Georgetown, then to Kalorama, before returning to the Admiral for drinks and food. Closest metro Dupont Circle.
Tuesday Night Skate (TNS)
Tuesday Night Skate (TNS)
Hi everyone! Tuesday Night Skates are in full effect! Meet every Tuesday outside of the NOMA-Galladudet U Station at the North entrance (1305 2nd St NE). We will head out at 7pm sharp for an 8 mile skate followed by pizza! We'll skate up the Metropolitan Branch Trail to the Ft. Totten Metro station and back down the trail to M St NE for pizza at Andy's. See ya there! This skate is led by Asher and myself. 🛼 This ride is BEGINNER FRIENDLY! While the full ride is 8 miles long, you have the option to tap out at one of the three red line metro stations along the route in both directions. You'll also have an opportunity to learn new skills and practice drills with the skate leaders at our regroupping spots along the route. The tap out points are as follows: 2 miles: Rhode Island Ave Metro 2.5 miles: Brookland Metro 4 miles: Ft Totten Metro 6 miles: Brookland Metro (on the way back) 7 miles: Rhode Island Ave Metro (on the way back) 8 miles: Andy's Pizza This is a great way to test and build up your endurance while skating! At least one of the skate leaders will skate at your pace, so you'll never be left behind. Join us at Andy's Pizza afterwards for a FREE slice of pizza with the purchase of any alcoholic beverage or N/A lemonade! Route Map: https://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=7752153 If we need to cancel one week due to weather or other reasons, we'll update the event page in advance.

Trail Running Events This Week

Discover what is happening in the next few days

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
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.
Saturday Run - 50 min (25 out and 25 back)
Saturday Run - 50 min (25 out and 25 back)
This Saturday lets run to the National Mall! We will start at Roosevelt Island at the crosswalk in the center of parking lot. (Note there is an alternative meeting spot, it is right on the Custis trail, on the North side of Gateway Park, near Langston Blvd and Lynn St; it will be clearly marked as the meeting spot if conditions are bad on a given Saturday. Ignore this unless told otherwise. Afterwards stay for coffee, we'll wander up to Rosslyn and either meet in Compass or, if the weather is nice enough, at the Plaza opposite the Metro. Note: Photos taken during the event may end up on Instagram, Meetup, Strava and similar platforms. \|LOCATION: Roosevelt Island Parking Lot. Use this map to locate the parking lot ([https://www.google.com/maps/place/38%C2%B053'48.2%22N+77%C2%B004'02.1%22W](https://www.google.com/maps/place/38%C2%B053'48.2%22N+77%C2%B004'02.1%22W)) [GPS: 38°53'51.99"N 77° 4'3.24"W]. To help new people find the group, please meet in the middle of the parking lot. Please meet 10 min. before the start time. Alternative location, ONLY when indicated, on the Custis trail, on the North side of Gateway Park, near Langston Blvd and Lynn St: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/3SNFYSkFv9rRQed37](https://maps.app.goo.gl/3SNFYSkFv9rRQed37) PACE and MILEAGE: All paces are welcome! We'll be doing an out and back route, so everyone will just turn around at the halfway time marker. We generally average from 8-12 min/miles and run for fifty minutes. But, you can run any amount of time or mileage. And if you need to walk, it's not a problem either, everyone needs to start somewhere! ROUTE: The usual route is [https://onthegomap.com/s/7r0gvj5r](https://onthegomap.com/s/7r0gvj5r). It may vary occasionally. The full circuit works out to around 8:30 min/mile for a 50 minute run. Slower paces can turn around earlier, faster paces can run farther. PARKING: Use this map ([http://bit.ly/i2dWD0](http://bit.ly/i2dWD0)) to find parking in Rosslyn. There are parking lots at Roosevelt Island and above the Continental Lounge. There are also meters and pay garages. DIRECTIONS: For those of you driving to Roosevelt Island, please note that the parking lot is only accessible from the NORTHBOUND lane of GW parkway. You will see it right after the Roosevelt Bridge. Also whenever it is warmer the parking lot fills up really quickly. You are strongly advised to use alternative travel or park in Rosslyn. They do ticket illegally parked cars at the island!! METRO: Orange or blue to Rosslyn. From N. Moore St, turn left; right onto 19th St; cross Lynn St. and turn left; take the trail on the right just before the Key Bridge.
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 National Landing Water Park 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 paid parking options (parking garages, street parking, or parking lots) in the area on Crystal Drive or Long Bridge 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!
Weekly Run 'n' Quaff
Weekly Run 'n' Quaff
Please join members of the the Arlington Running Club each Thursday night at 6:30 PM for our weekly Run 'n' Quaff at Astro Beer Hall located at 4001 Campbell Avenue, Arlington Virginia 22206 in the Shirlington neighborhood of Arlington, Virginia. We are a laid back group of runners that enjoys running a 5-K (3.1 mile) course each week followed the quaffing of cold refreshing adult beverages. We have runners of all abilities from the beginning runner / walker up through marathoners and ultra runners. Our age group spans from early twenties through late seventies and all ages in between. There is someone your age range / someone your skill level at our weekly meetups. No check-ins, waiver forms, or administrivia. No rules, just right. Please join us each and every Thursday night, rain or shine, for the Arlington Running Club!
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

Trails & Ales! Chestnut Ridge Metro Park / BrewDog DogTap
Trails & Ales! Chestnut Ridge Metro Park / BrewDog DogTap
**History** [Chestnut Ridge Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/chestnut-ridge/) is historically significant because it sits on a 300-million-year-old outcropping of Blackhand sandstone. Geographically recognized as the very first foothill of the Appalachian Mountains, the ridge rises 1,116 feet above sea level. Long before European settlement, the land served as a sacred site for ancient civilizations. The park contains the Old Maid's Orchard Mound, an eight-foot-tall burial mound constructed by the Adena culture between 1000 B.C. and 100 B.C. This ancient landmark has remained largely intact and is now protected on the National Register of Historic Places. The documented modern history of the land began with an official survey conducted by Ebenezer Buckingham in 1801. Original land deeds of sale from this period notably bear the signatures of United States Presidents Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. In the 1830s, Irish laborers arrived at the ridge to quarry its rich Blackhand sandstone. The blocks they hewed were used to build the crucial locks for the nearby Ohio and Erie Canal. Remnants of this early sandstone quarrying operation can still be spotted by sharp-eyed hikers along the modern trails. Agricultural transformation defined the ridge throughout the mid-to-late 19th century. Settlers discovered that the high elevation created a natural air flow that prevented late-season frost damage to crops. Extensive fruit orchards were planted across the slopes between 1860 and 1880. One notable orchard was established by John Wagner, a Spanish-American War veteran who chose the ridge specifically for its proximity to the bustling Columbus market. The park's current name pays homage to the massive American chestnut trees that once dominated the ridgeline before a devastating ecological blight wiped them out in the early 20th century. The conservation story of the modern 486-acre park began in March 1962. The Metro Parks board announced land acquisition plans to block developers from building a residential housing development called Chestnut Heights. Director-Secretary Walter A. Tucker advocated heavily for the purchase, citing the ridge's immense value as a scenic overlook for central Ohio. The district systematically purchased multiple agricultural parcels over the next two decades. After operating strictly as undeveloped farmland through the 1970s, Chestnut Ridge Metro Park officially opened to the public on December 18, 1988. In recent decades, the park has evolved from a quiet hiking spot into a premier regional destination for outdoor sports. A major turning point occurred in 2010 when the Central Ohio Mountain Biking Organization (COMBO) partnered with the park district to develop new infrastructure. Volunteers worked extensively to construct a single-track mountain bike trail, which officially opened in October 2011. An expert gravity and flow trail featuring advanced jumps was later integrated into the loop in 2016. Today, the park successfully balances its deep ancient, industrial, and agricultural history with active recreation. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Chestnut Ridge](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/CHR_map_1980px_2026.jpg). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Ridge, Meadows, and Homesite Trails, and Law's Lane, which is unmarked on some maps. None of these trails is individually very long, so we will hike a few permutations and loops until we get in 4-5 miles. The hike will be moderately strenuous. **Where We'll Meet** Drive to the rearmost picnic area at the back of the park. There's a latrine here, but there's no water fountain here or anywhere else at Chestnut Ridge. I strongly recommend you bring some water of your own, at least for after the hike. Cell service at the park is spotty, although your GPS will get you there just fine. The map pin I've provided here is exactly where we'll be meeting and should be able to be used directly in Google Maps, although Chestnut Ridge isn't big and you're unlikely to get lost here. **After the Hike** Afterward, we'll head over to [BrewDog DogTap](https://drink.brewdog.com/usa/brewdog-dogtap-columbus) for [drinks](https://usa.brewdog.com/pages/brewdog-lineup) and [food](https://usa.brewdog.com/cdn/shop/files/DogTap_Menu_2025_65e1ff8b-97d4-4f26-80f1-68321d482025.pdf?v=17356939232910340498). They also have an outdoor area that's extremely popular. I've had their burgers and their pizza, and I think they're both very good. I also really like their [Cold Beer](https://usa.brewdog.com/products/cold-beer-2024) (that's its actual name), which is their American light lager. BrewDog's actual address is [96 Gender Rd, Canal Winchester, OH 43110](https://www.google.com/maps/place/96+Gender+Rd,+Canal+Winchester,+OH+43110/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88387c06afa21a85:0x804c611d373d8c54?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and they have a large, free parking lot. We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.
Blendon Woods Metro Park
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 .
Sunday Brunch
Sunday Brunch
Sleep in on Sundays. When you've had your fill of pajama-time, roll out and have some tasty brunch with your fellow Humanists!
Sharon Woods HIKE
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.
Bike Ride - Pickerington Ponds to Three Creeks to Three Creeks
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.
Rays Of Light Spiritualist Church Service
Rays Of Light Spiritualist Church Service
Rev. Steven Clevenger is an ordained spiritualist minister with over 40 years experience as a Spiritual Healer, Clairvoyant and Spiritual Teacher, educated and trained at the White Lily Chapel. Rev. Siobhan Wolf Shaffer is an ordained spiritualist minister and certified medium and healer with over 20 years experience. She began her development in 1988 in Pennsylvania and continued when she moved to Ohio in 1998 where she studied at Rays of Lights Church with Rev. Steven Clevenger. Our full worship services consist of an inspirational lecture, healing meditation, and messages from the spirit world that serve to demonstrate evidence of eternal life. Please visit our Official Church Website (http://raysoflightchurch.com) for more information.
Hike Char-Mar Ridge Park
Hike Char-Mar Ridge Park
This is a small but pretty park with a 1.7-mile loop. We will walk it 2 times. It goes along a ridge and has moderate elevation changes.