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
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.
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) [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.
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) 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.
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.
Saturday Morning #HillsForBreakfast
**Meet at the trail head at the Sweetgum picnic area.**
Come out and join us on the newly surfaced, rolling hills of Greenbelt National Park. This run through Greenbelt National Park consists of two loop that comes out to roughly 3 miles.
With 3 hills (run twice), this is a great way to get hills in before breakfast.
Both walkers and runners are welcome.
Weekly Group Run ✊🏽🏃🏽♀️🏃🏾🌳
Instagram: @runbmc.dmv - Be sure to follow the page for the latest updates
Join us for our group run this weekend, we’d love to have you 🥳 Tell a friend, bring a friend ✊🏽🙂↔️
📆 SATURDAY January 24
⏰ WARM UP @ 8:30am- TAKEOFF @ 8:45am
🌳 Meet in the far parking lot of Bladensburg Waterfront Park @ 4601 Annapolis Road, Bladensburg, MD
🏃🏽♀️We’ll be running the Anacostia Riverwalk trail - 3 miles
Hike - Preview #2 of AMC 150 Relay Segment on WB&A Trail - RESCHEDULED
This is the second hike of a preparation/progression series that builds up to the AMC 150 Relay segment scheduled for 3/29/26. That relay segment will be 8.3 miles. This second hike in our preparation series is five miles in length (out and back). It’s a flat rail trail on a section of the WB&A Trail, so it is rated as easy. If you are recuperating from injury, got busy with work and family, or otherwise feel the need to get in hiking readiness for the year ahead, this hike will work great for you. Feel free to join with no commitment to doing the relay segment or any other hike in this series.
All participants must register individually for the hike at [https://activities.outdoors.org](https://activities.outdoors.org/) so that the waiver is signed and an emergency contact is provided. No dogs. We will meet at the parking lot [location available upon registration].
The WB&A Trail is a converted rail-trail, converted from an electric commuter railway that served Washington, DC, Baltimore, and Annapolis. The trail winds its way between Prince Georges County and Anne Arundel County, offering a mix of woods, water, and residential communities along the asphalt path. A bridge across the Patuxent River was completed in Spring 2025, now linking Prince George’s County and Anne Arundel County. (We will not see the bridge on this 5-mile hike.) The trail offers a peek behind the curtain of suburbia, with marshy wetlands, woods, bridges and tunnels, along with some trail sections that pass through residential neighborhoods and some road crossings.
A bit about the AMC 150 Relay: we’re celebrating AMC’s 150th Birthday! From March to October, volunteers from AMC are offering events galore—a succession of hikes and other outdoor activities from Virginia to Maine, to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the organization’s founding in 1876. Though historically rooted in New England, over time AMC has expanded and established regional chapters through the Mid-Atlantic, including today’s host, the Potomac Chapter.
Social: Potluck and "Big Trip" Celebration
I'm excited to revive a DCUL tradition -- our annual potluck and "big trip" slideshow. You'll get to munch on tasty treats while seeing brief presentations from 2025 "big trips," including Tour du Mont Blanc, Nepal, the Wonderland Trail, and adventures in Colorado and Arizona.
It's a great opportunity to socialize, meet other club members, and learn about trips that may be on your bucket list. And who knows--maybe a few plans for 2026 and 2027 trips, domestic or international, will take shape.
This will be a potluck, so post what you're planning to bring in the comments. The building is easily accessible by metro—just two blocks from the Eisenhower metro or a short walk from the King Street metro. Limited street parking is available, but there are parking garages nearby.
Winter Hike at Great Falls
**The Goombay Annual Winter Hike at Great Falls 2026**
"Let's get out and enjoy a day hiking and taking some great pictures at Great Falls"
**Saturday\, January 24th \| 10am\-12:30pm**
This is a Moderate Level hike which is generally suitable for novice hikers seeking a bit of a challenge. The terrain will involve moderate inclines and may have some steeper sections. This trail is 5-6 miles.
**Great Falls Visitor Center** \| 9200 Old Dominion Dr\, McLean\, VA 22102
\* We will meet at the entrance of the Great Falls Visitor Center. The entrance into the park is $20 per vehicle (no cash accepted). If you have a yearly park pass, the entrance fee is free.
\*\* NO PETS ALLOWED
**SIGN UP AT [WWW.GOOMBAY.NET](http://www.goombay.net/)**
**HIKE AGENDA:**
9:45am: Hikers check in at the entrance to the visitor center. You will see the group assembling by the parking lot.
10:00am: Hikers assemble for welcome announcement
10:15am: Hike begins
12:30pm: Hike ends
**SUGGESTED EQUIPMENT LIST**
* Day Pack with hydration pack or water bottles
* Trekking Poles (optional)
* Sturdy hiking boots or trail sneakers
* Small First Aid Kit (optional)
* Weather-appropriate clothing (think moisture-wicking and layers)
* Hat or scarf
* Trail snacks & plenty of water
* Wipes/Toilet Paper
* Hand Warmers
* Cell phone with back up battery
**FAQ**
**WHAT LEVEL IS THIS HIKE:** This is a Moderate Level hike which is generally suitable for novice hikers seeking a bit of a challenge. The terrain will involve moderate inclines and may have some steeper sections. This trail is between 5-6 miles.
**CAN BEGINNERS ATTEND THIS HIKE:** Yes, we welcome beginners to attend this hike but please note, there will be some challenging sections throughout the hike but nothing to strenuous.
**WHAT IS THE PACE OF THE GROUP:** The group will start off at the same time and during the hike three distinct pace groups will form. We will have hike leaders mixed within the group and we will stop periodically for water and rest.
**WHAT TYPE OF HIKE IS THIS:** This is a loop trail hike and will start and end at the same location
**WHAT SHOULD I WEAR:** A good rule of thumb is to dress comfortably and in layers. Dressing in layers will allow you to stay warm when your cold and as you warm up, you can take off layers and not over heat. It's going to be cool to cold so we strongly suggest warm clothing, moisture wicking under garments, a hat, sturdy hiking boots or trail sneakers (your choice), wool socks, a small day back, trekking poles (optional) and plenty of water.
**ARE PETS ALLOWED:** NO
***If you have any questions please contact Butch at 202.210-1957***
Trail Running 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.
Hike Leader Appreciation Event: Mini-Golf Outing
Hike leaders, this event is for you! In appreciation of our hard-working volunteers, we're hosting a special outing to thank them for contributing their time to make the Capital Hiking Club a success.
If you led a trip in the last calendar year, the CHC board members would like to invite you to join us at Swingers Crazy Golf in Dupont Circle.
What you'll enjoy:
* Tasty food and drinks.
* A round of mini-golf
* And a chance to test your skills with some carnival games!
****This event is invite-only for CHC hike leaders**--please add yourself to the waitlist, and we'll move you into the event. **Email jen.adach[at]gmail.com by Jan. 9 with any dietary restrictions.
Interested in learning how you can be a hike leader? Reach out to us--we'll be happy to get you started!
Sunday Skate with The Washington Area Roadskaters!
Join us as The Washington Area Roadskaters lead you on a different adventure every week, skating through and around our Nation's Capital!
For current details, check Facebook and Instagram.
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/WashingtonAreaRoadskaters/events
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/weareskatedc/
We hope to see you soon!
Capital Crescent hike Fletchers & Bethesda, MD (ODH Training)
Out-and-back, go-at-your-own-pace hike of 10.2 miles on former right-of-way of a historic railroad through lovely wooded sections of Northwest DC, with an optional indoor lunch stop in Bethesda, MD. Total of 350 feet of elevation climbed on a few hills, at your own pace. [https://www.cctrail.org/points_of_interest](https://www.cctrail.org/points_of_interest)
Level: Moderate
10 miles: Allow min. 4 hours for this hike.
Meet at Fletcher's Boat House - 4940 Canal Rd, NW
We meet by 9:30 am on the first/upper parking lot for registration.
If there is no room in the first parking lot when you enter, proceed through the tunnel under the canal to a much larger parking lot, then walk back up the stairs/bridge to the meeting point.
There are bathrooms there.
Dress in warm layers, bring (hot) water, snacks and or lunch ...plus anything you might need for balance and to stay warm.
Leaders: Rob Anderson 202-258-1010 and Vicky Hsu 240-370-7011
**ONE DAY HIKE**
Although open to all, this hike is part of a series of Saturday training hikes leading up to the [One Day Hike](https://www.meetup.com/sierrapotomac/events/304791832/) (ODH)—100 or 50 km along the C&O Canal—on May. 2, 2026. See SCPRO’s [Meetup page](https://www.meetup.com/sierrapotomac/) for other training hikes as they are posted. If you would like to support the ODH, see [volunteering opportunities](https://www.meetup.com/sierrapotomac/events/304792694/) . For official updates regarding training hikes, registration, and other information, join the ODH discussion group by sending a blank email to onedayhike+subscribe@groups.io.
**SCPRO DONATION:**
A voluntary $2.00 donation per event is appreciated. You may donate via PayPal by sending money to ECommerce@SierraPotomac.org using “For friends and family” as payment type, or in cash at the event.
You may join the Sierra Club by clicking "JOIN" on the Virginia Chapter's [website](http://www.sierraclub.org/virginia).
Trail Running Events Near You
Connect with your local Trail Running community
Thursday Night Run + Brewery Hangout
Join the RunDMV crew every Thursday night at **6:30pm** outside **Caboose Brewing Co.** in Vienna (520 Mill St. NE). We hit the W&OD Trail right behind the brewery for a **40-minute out-and-back run/walk**—go at your own pace, and when you hit 20 minutes, just turn around so we all finish together.
No matter if you’re walking, jogging, or pushing the pace, you’ll have company out there. Each week we switch directions (east one week, west the next) to keep things fresh.
After the run, we stick around for food and drinks at Caboose—because half the fun of run club is hanging out afterward. 🍻
Lake Anne Brew House Saturday BEER RUN
Run starts promptly at 9:45 am and follows a 1.5 mile loop around the lake. Do however many loops you like!
Run at your own pace.
After the run, we'll meet at the Brew House for a beer or coffee and BREAKFAST pretzels! Those cannot be anything but delicious.
See you there.
Lake Anne Brew House Saturday BEER RUN
Run starts promptly at 9:45 am and follows a 1.5 mile loop around the lake. Do however many loops you like!
Run at your own pace.
After the run, we'll meet at the Brew House for a beer or coffee and BREAKFAST pretzels! Those cannot be anything but delicious.
See you there.
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.
Winter Fun: Hike and Skate in Reston (Rating: C)
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.
Join us for winter fun, hiking and ice skating! First time skaters welcome.
We will meet next to the Mercury Fountain, which is north of the Ice Rink. From the fountain, we will take the Green Trail to Lake Anne. From there we continue on the Blue Trail and some other paths until we reach Lake Fairfax. We will zigzag through Lake Fairfax Park and we will have a break at Lake Fairfax Park Campground A (excellent facilities). Then we will continue through the Lake Fairfax Park until we make a right turn that will bring us close to the Reston Golf Course. We will hike along the golf course until we hit the W&OD trail at Sallie Mae Drive. Then we will follow the W&OD trail back to Reston, to start part 2 of the fun. The hike is 6 miles with \~400 feet elevation gain.
We plan to arrive at the Reston Ice Rink about 11:45am for the ice skating portion of this event, followed by lunch at Makers Union about 1pm. Cost for skating is $11 adults/$9 senior or military plus $8 skate rental.
Please only sign up if you are interested in both the hike and ice skating, as space is limited. Thank you.
Distance: 6 miles
Elevation: 400 ft.
Pace: 2.5-3 mph while moving
**Coordinates of the meeting place:** 38.958924, -77.356932
**Dogs:** not allowed
**Leaders:** Willem Janssen, (202) 280-4397 and Kris N. (618) 623-2484
**Rating:** C
**Map for hike:** https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-december-2-2024-9c838d2?u=i&sh=g8n9nn




















