Trailhead

We are heading to Grampians National Park, one of the most incredible places in Victoria to lose yourself in nature for a while. We will book a bus with a driver. Our events are only open to people aged 18 years and older. Please follow these two steps to confirm your spot: Step 1: Please RSVP to this event on meetup. Step 2: Please buy the bus ticket via Trybooking ($99 - Early Bird, $119 - Regular): [https://www.trybooking.com/DIMXJ](https://www.trybooking.com/DIMXJ) Payments are managed through Trybooking and not Meetup. You will see an **"Unpaid"** status on your RSVP. The only thing you need is the Trybooking ticket which you will receive by email. I will manually update the meetup payment status closer to the event date. Trybooking payments are non-refundable. There is no option to transfer the ticket to a new date. Trybooking payments will be refunded only if the event is cancelled or moved to a new date. If you are a digital creator or youtuber, please message the organizer before buying the ticket. Meeting Point: Let's meet in the Corner of Russell and Flinders Street (Federation Square Bus stop) at 8:45 AM. We should be back at Federation Square Bus Stop around 9 pm. Map: [https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=-37.817028%2C%20144.97006](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=-37.817028%2C%20144.97006) This is a rain or shine event. Cost: Bus Ticket: $99 - Early Bird $119 - Regular Lunch: Varies (depends on what you buy at Halls Gap). Tentative list of locations we will be visiting: **Halls Gap**: Stop at Halls Gap for a lunch break (own expense). **If you are lucky**, The Halls Gap Recreation Reserve is a fantastic place to see **Kangaroos** in the Grampians. 🕒30 mins **Boroka Lookout**: Picturesque views of mountain ranges, lakes & plains. (Please **stay within the safety barriers for your own safety**. In the news: [https://bit.ly/3o3MvAI](https://bit.ly/3o3MvAI) ) 🕒15 mins \| 1\-2 mins walk **Reed Lookout:** From the summit of Reed Lookout you will enjoy stunning views over the entire Victoria Valley, Victoria Range, Serra Range, Lake Wartook, and the Mt Difficult Range on a clear day. (Not much walking involved) 🕒15 mins \| 1\-2 mins walk **Pinnacles Lookout:** The Pinnacle is the Grampians’ most iconic lookout — and for good reason. The sweeping views are nothing short of spectacular, making it one of the most breath-taking vantage points in the entire Grampians National Park. 4\.2km return hike \| 🕒2 hours **Grand Canyon -** Climb your way through a stunning gorge beneath towering rock walls on this short but challenging hike. Take a moment to pause, listen to the gentle stream, and soak in the natural echoes all around you. It's short strenuous walk up and the downhill coming back. 🕒45 mins Please follow us on Social Media for photos, videos & updates: [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@explore-melbourne) \| [Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/exploremelb) \| [Facebook Group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/exploremelb) \| [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/xpmelb/) \| [TikTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@exploremelbourne) \| [ExploreMelbourne.AU](https://exploremelbourne.au/) Explore Melbourne is the largest meetup group in Australia with more than 42,000 members. We know these group rules won’t suit everybody, and that’s okay—there are many other groups where you might feel more at home. To keep things safe, fun, and positive, we have 8 simple rules for people attending our events. Over the past 9 years, we’ve removed 342 people (around 0.8%) for breaking them—so please read carefully! ❌ Not a dating group – We’re here to make friends and share experiences, not find soulmates. 📵 No phone numbers – You’re welcome to swap social media if you both agree, but please don’t share or ask for phone numbers. Please don’t add people to WhatsApp or other groups. 🔞 Our events are only open to people aged 18 and older. 📢 No advertising – Please don’t promote other events, groups, or businesses here. 😅 Don’t be clingy – Give people space to mingle and chat with others too. 🚗 No carpooling – For safety reasons and insurance coverage, we don’t allow carpooling or ride-sharing through the group. 💰 No sales pitches – That means no selling, MLMs, pyramid schemes, or “life-changing mentorships.” Keep it scam-free. By joining an event, you agree to follow these rules. Breaking them means removal from all our groups—no exceptions. Thank you! **Liability Waiver:** The organizer of this group cannot accept any liability for any loss, damage, injury, or accident to participants or their property at this event. By participating in this event, you're taking responsibility for your safety and well-being. By joining this event, you agree to the liability waiver mentioned here: [https://exploremelbourne.au/explore-melbourne-liability-waiver/](https://exploremelbourne.au/explore-melbourne-liability-waiver/)

Smashing! Try something new Friday night Interactive workshops Everyone speaks - we typically start in small groups and gradually build up confidence and skills **Free parking** close: O'Connell and Cobden streets **IMPORTANT: Arrive early, as doors close/lock when we start** “Proudly Australian" – Free-flowing teamwork, greater good, all funds stay within Australia Multicultural Hub, 506 Elizabeth St (Opposite Queen Vic Market) Level 1, Orange room More to come...

G'day! We have a 5-a-side kickoff happening **every Friday, from 6-7 pm at Rooftop Futsal @ ACU Fitzroy**! To join us, just download the Stranger Soccer app and register for free. If you're joining us for the first time, use the code **WELCOME** to book this game for free. Book your slot now and get involved. Cheers!

Discover your innate ability to heal using pranic healing, non-touch energy healing techniques. This two day weekend course is hands on, fun and easy course that teaches you how to become a pranic healer. It’s the first step you can take to improve your life, heal yourself, loved ones, family and clients. After this weekend you will feel confident to heal others and can start to use these techniques straight away. This course provides priceless teachings of Master Choa Kok Sui who created Pranic Healing to help alleviate the suffering of humanity. Pranic healing benefits are many and may include: * Reduction / removal of aches and pains * Reduce stress and anxiety * Increases energy levels * Increase happiness * Improve focus * Improve stress In this course you learn: * how to increase the rate of healing and recovery from physical, mental and emotional ailments * learn to scan, sense and see and understand the energy body, anatomy, aura and 11 major chakras and its system * increase one’s own energy level * calming and energising yogic breathing exercises * increase healing powers * learn how to cleanse, heal and energise chakras or energy centres * stabilise energy so it stays where it’s needed Ancient laws on Karma will be reviled and much more. To find out more, register and visit: www.phwn.com.au Or email info@phwn.com.au Please note this course fee is $450 for new students and $225 for review students

*** Enjoy a **structured Sunday morning walk** designed for people who want to **build walking fitness** and prepare for **longer walks or hikes**. This is **not a social or chat-focused walk**. We’ll maintain a **steady, consistent pace** to help build endurance. While this is still suitable for beginners, participants should be comfortable walking continuously and aiming to improve their fitness over time. The total distance is approximately **9 km**, starting on the **Anniversary Trail**, crossing onto the **Ferndale Trail**, and returning to the start via the **Gardiners Creek Trail**. The route follows well-maintained paths and is ideal for practising longer distances in a controlled environment. After returning to the starting point, there will be an **optional coffee stop** at *Jack and the Beans Talk Café* near East Malvern Station for those who would like to join. The coffee catch-up is optional and separate from the walk. **This walk is suitable for:** * People preparing for longer walks or hikes * Those wanting to build distance and endurance * Beginners who are ready to walk continuously at a steady pace The pace will be moderately brisk but not fast compared to my longer evening walks. We will not be stopping often regroup. I will pause at the turns to help ensure no one misses them. **By attending, you agree to match the pace and stay in sight of the group or be comfortable navigating your own way around.** **What to bring:** * Water bottle * Appropriate clothing if it's windy or possibility of rain * Hats/Sunglasses/Sun protection if it's sunny **MEETING LOCATION** East Malvern station carpark at the end of Sycamore Street. https://maps.app.goo.gl/kTpRhA1jV8qAtkSE7 Tap on the map below to get the pin location for the exact meeting spot. **LIABILITY WAVER** The organiser of this group cannot accept any liability for any loss, damage, injury or accidents to participants or their property on this event. By participating in this event, you're taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. By joining this event you agree to these terms.

👉🏻 [GET YOUR TICKET (CLICK HERE)](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/1982320216129?aff=oddtdtcreator) [ ](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/1977239373191?aff=oddtdtcreator)👈🏻 ------------------------------------------------------- 🗓️ Date: Sunday, 15 March 2026 📍 Location: Cape Schanck (Approximately 1 hour & 30 minutes from Melbourne CBD on Sundays) 🚙 Need a lift? Tap here - To see the carpool drivers and organise your ride. 📏 Hike Distance: Around 8 km total. 🔗 Trail Map: Cape Schanck 🕙 Start Time: 3:45 PM. Please arrive at the hike/parking location (shared via the private Instagram group chat). This allows time for a quick ice breaker and, if available, a toilet break at the car park before we set off. The hike will begin promptly at 4:00 PM. 🕔 End Time: 7:30 PM. 🚶‍♂️ Pace/Difficulty: Friendly and social / Easy. ------------------------------------------------------- Plan for the Day: We’ll start with a 1-hour scenic coastal hike, taking our time to enjoy the views and the trail. After the hike, we’ll spend around 2 hours relaxing at the destination time to unwind, take photos and enjoy the surroundings head back to car park at 6/6:30 pm. We'll explore and swim in the amazing rock pools. ⚠️Important notes: Swimming is optional and at your own risk No jumping or diving is allowed There is no lifeguard on duty 🚩 ------------------------------------------------------- ⌛️ Average Hike Duration: 4–6 hours, depending on the group’s pace + including breaks to admire nature and a lunch break along the trail. 💬 Community Chat Access: You'll be added to our private Instagram group chat after booking! This is where we share final hike details, updates, and a fun space to connect before and after the hike. 👉 To make it easy for us to add you, please follow us on Instagram @socialhikesau prior booking. Important Note For this hike, we recommend that all participants download the AllTrails app before the event. This will help you: View the trail map in advance Track your progress during the hike Stay on course in case you get separated from the group Having AllTrails ensures everyone can enjoy the hike safely and confidently. ------------------------------------------------------- Looking to meet new people, explore nature, and have a good laugh along the way? This is your perfect Sunday plan! 🎉 We’re excited to invite you to our upcoming Melbourne Social Hike. A welcoming day out where the focus is all about fun, friendships and fresh air. Whether you come solo or bring a mate, you’ll leave with new connections and memories! ------------------------------------------------------- 🚙 Carpooling Makes It Happen Social Hikes Australia runs on community spirit and carpooling is a big part of that. Every seat offered means another hiker can join the adventure. Less cars, easier logistics, more fun together. Carpooling is a great way to start the day by meet new people, share a few laughs, and arrive at the trail together. Drivers, your contribution makes a huge difference, and passengers, your gratitude keeps it all running smoothly. It’s simple, social and one of the best parts of the Social Hikes Australia experience. 🚗🌿 ------------------------------------------------------- 👉 Carpool Driver information If you’ve got spare seats and don’t mind some company, offering a lift is one of the best ways to kick off the day 🚙💨. It makes the trip more fun, helps out fellow hikers who don’t have a car and is an easy way to make a few friends before we even hit the trail. Plus, fewer cars means less parking stress and a smoother start for everyone. For passengers, it’s the easiest way to get to the trail, meet new people and enjoy the ride together instead of travelling alone. In our Social Hikes Australia community, many people are more than happy to help out those without cars it’s part of what makes these days feel so welcoming and connected. ✨ Best practice: Passengers should try to secure transportation before purchasing a ticket to avoid any last-minute stress. Important Carpooling Note Drivers and passengers should stick with the arrangements they make. We do not recommend swapping drivers or cars after you’ve agreed on a ride. If you do decide to change, please make sure all parties are clearly informed and agree to avoid confusion. If a driver forgets, gets mixed up, or doesn’t pick you up, Social Hikes Australia (and your driver) are not liable for any inconvenience caused. For this reason, it is best to keep things simple with the driver you first arranged with. In the transport chat, drivers will share their preferred pick-up locations often major CBD train stations like Parliament, Richmond, South Yarra, Southern Cross, or North Melbourne. For this hike, the nearest station to the trail is Frankston , though drivers may choose whichever spot is most convenient for them. Passengers can then join from those locations. ------------------------------------------------------- 🤩 Why Join? 🌟 Make new friends in a super easy, zero pressure way 🌟 Enjoy nature and fresh air with great company 🌟 Friendly vibes full of laughs, chats and good times guaranteed 🌟 Your next hiking buddy might just become your next uni mate, housemate or travel buddy! ------------------------------------------------------- 🎟️ Tickets: All tickets are $20 per person. This helps cover: Public liability insurance A $2.40 contribution per ticket directly to Parks Victoria Experienced guides with a tour operator license who know the trails well First aid kit and safety equipment for the group 🚗 Carpoolers Discount If you’re driving and offer seats to passengers, your ticket is only $5 🙌. ------------------------------------------------------- 🥾 What to Bring: 👟 Comfy hiking shoes 💧 2–3L of water 🥪 Snacks/lunch ☀️ Sun protection (hat, sunnies, sunscreen) 🦟 Bug spray (always a good idea) 🏖️ Towel to lie on 🎒 Optional: hiking poles, wet weather gear/raincoat ------------------------------------------------------- 📌 How It Works: After purchasing your ticket, you’ll receive a link to our private Instagram group chat. All final details will be shared there: Hike route, meet-up location and any last-minute updates. Friendly pace, friendly faces! This hike is intentionally slow–medium so everyone can enjoy and chat along the way. ------------------------------------------------------- Why Join Us? 🌱 Make new friends in a relaxed, casual way. 🌱 Enjoy nature while meeting people your age. 🌱 No pressure, just good vibes and real connections. 🌱 You never know. Today’s hiking buddy could be tomorrow’s uni mate, flatmate, or travel buddy! 🌱 Your safety is our priority. Equipped with a first aid kit on hand. ------------------------------------------------------- 🍽️ Food Arrangement After our hike, we love keeping the good vibes rolling with a meal together. We’ll suggest a café or restaurant that’s usually on the way back toward the city so it’s easy for everyone and avoids extra driving. It’s always a highlight of the day swapping stories from the trail, sharing laughs, and getting to know your fellow hikers even better over some good food. Joining is optional, but most people stick around because it’s such a fun way to finish the adventure. Everyone just covers their own meal, and we’ll confirm the spot in the Instagram group chat on the day. When booking, you’ll be asked if you’d like to join: Yes / No / Not Sure. The organisers will confirm the restaurant or bar on the day, based on feedback. ------------------------------------------------------- ⚠️ Important: Must be 18+ years old to attend. Hike at your own risk. You are responsible for your own safety and belongings. Respectful, kind behaviour is a must. We are a positive and welcoming community. Zero tolerance for any unwelcome behaviour. We’re here to have fun, together! ------------------------------------------------------- 📜 Liability & Waiver By joining this hike, you acknowledge that participation is voluntary and at your own risk. Social Hikes Australia is not liable for accidents, injuries, illnesses, theft, or transport-related issues. 🚑 If you have previous injuries, medical conditions, or health concerns, discuss with the organiser before purchasing your ticket. Transport/carpooling is a community initiative only, not a service. 👉 Please make sure to read our Terms & Conditions (click here) before purchasing your ticket. ------------------------------------------------------- Refund Policy: Tickets are non-refundable unless the hike is cancelled or rescheduled. Tickets cannot be transferred to other hike unless agreed with the organisers. ------------------------------------------------------- 🌧 Rain Policy If the forecast shows over 15 mm in 6 hours or 20+ mm during the day, we may postpone or adjust the hike to keep things safe and enjoyable. Slippery trails, flooding, and poor visibility are no fun or safe. We’ll also reschedule for thunderstorms or if trails are still soaked from heavy rain the days before. Light rain (under 5 mm/hour) is usually fine. We’ll check each hike case-by-case. Safety first 🌿 If it changes and gets heavier, we’ll reschedule for the following Saturday, 29 March 2026 instead. ------------------------------------------------------- 🌿 About Social Hikes Australia: Social Hikes Australia was founded in 2023 with a simple mission: to bring people together through the beauty of nature. Since then, we’ve completed over 45 incredible hikes across Victoria, From coastal trails to mountain summits, we have explored the diverse landscapes Victoria has to offer, fostering connection, adventure, and a deep apreciation for the wild. 🥾🌿 We're excited to announce that fortnightly hikes have officially become part of our schedule! 🚀 Every two weeks, we'll be exploring new locations, creating more opportunities for you to connect, adventure, and be part of a growing, supportive community. Whether you're an experienced hiker or just getting into the outdoors, Social Hikes Australia is a place where everyone is welcome. Come for the adventure, stay for the friendships. 🤝✨ 👉 Follow us on Instagram for updates and upcoming hikes: @socialhikesau ------------------------------------------------------- 💸 Where Your Contribution Goes: Advertising and outreach – helping us bring in new people on every event. $2.40 per person – paid directly to Parks Victoria as part of the per-day use fee. Public liability insurance – so we’re covered for safety and compliance. First aid kit supplies – keeping our hikes safe and prepared. Tour Operator Licence. Every ticket makes it possible to cover the essentials and keep creating safe, social, and welcoming outdoor adventures. 🌿 ------------------------------------------------------- 📞 Organiser Contact: We highly encourage you to text our organiser team before purchasing your ticket if you have any concerns about transport: Jacob 📱 0404 870 123 l Sebas 📱 0435 993 237 🥳 Ready to make friends, explore Melbourne’s beautiful nature, and have a blast? Spots are limited, so grab your ticket now and let's hike, laugh and connect! 🌿🎉

Hey, mates! We'll be having a 5-a-side match **at Monash University every Sunday, from 10:30 to 11:30 am.** To join us, download the Stranger Soccer app and register for free. If this is your first time playing with us, use the code **WELCOME** to book your first game for free! Book your slot now and get involved!

**CERES Community Park – Merri River Trail** It’s time we explored a new trail! So this week we are heading over to Brunswick and will walk the Merri River Trail. The **CERES Community and Environmental Park** is on the banks of the Merri River and the trail runs alongside the Merri River. We walk as far as Bell Street, then back for coffee at the Merri Café. **Start:** CERES Park, corner of **Roberts and Stewart Streets**, Brunswick East. Meet just inside the gate. Look for the red umbrella! **Start time:** 9.00 AM **Parking:** There is parking at the CERES Park. But if it is crowded, park anywhere in the surrounding streets. Allow 10 minutes to walk back to the START. **The Walk**: The walk follows the Merri Creek north to Bell Street, Brunswick then back the same trail to the start. **Total distance**: 5.0 km. (approx.) **Time:** Allow 2.0 hours for the walk, plus half hour for coffee. Total 2.5 hours. **Difficulty:** Easy **Toilets:** At the start. **Coffee:** Merri Café located adjacent to the visitor centre.

It's a little early for the Wearing of the Green, because the trees and grass are still brown. But you can wear green! The trails in Great Falls National Park, Virginia, offer spectacular views of the Potomac Gorge and Difficult Run--especially now before the vegetation fills out. This hike will be a repeat of January 4th, 4.6 miles at a leisurely pace. We will start on the Old Carriage Road and winding Swamp Trail. Then onto the Ridge and Difficult Run Trails, including hills and a detour to a waterfall. Return ralong the Ridge trail and more difficult River Trail, which has short but steep hills; steps; mini-rock scrambles; and clifftop overlooks. We will pause at several overlooks and finish at the overlooks of Great Falls. Bring; hiking boots (no smooth-soled shoes), water, and snacks for a rest stop halfway through the hike. Start time: Meet at 10:30 and start walking at 10:45. Pace: average 2.0 mph (faster on the early flat section, slower on the later rocky section) AllTrails map: We will mostly follow the AllTrails "River, Ridge, CCT, and Swamp Trails" in reverse: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/great-falls-loop-river-ridge-cct-and-swamp-trails Custom Alltrails map: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/custom-route-382bf19?p=-1&sh=fuqxr6&utm_medium=map_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality Meeting point: Meet at 10:30 am for sign-ins and introductions, at the bottom of the ramp to the Visitor Center (the entrance facing the parking lot). Street address is 9200 Old Dominion Dr, McLean, VA 22102. Allow extra drive time for construction delays on Georgetown Pike and George Washington Parkway. Meeting place coordinates: https://maps.app.goo.gl/kAY7ou858TqCAJeK7?g_st=ipc Park entrance fee: NO CASH ACCEPTED. $20 per car or $35 annually. Free with a National Park pass. Carpools can be arranged by using the Meetup Comments section. (Hike leader can take 1-2 passengers from Eastern Market or Rosslyn metro station if willing to go early.) Facilities: The park has restrooms and a snack bar located "under" the Visitor Center. Contact Information: Please use the Meetup Comments for routine comments and questions. Hike leaders are Amber 703-231-5978 and Peter 703-999-9435. However, there is NO cell service in the park, so hike leaders will not get last-minute messages. RSVP: Sign-up ends at 6:00 pm the night before. Please do not show up unregistered. If you can't make the hike, please cancel your RSVP by 6 pm the night before to allow others on the waiting list to join. To find out more about PATC, see www.patc.net Consider becoming a member of PATC. To join, see www.patc.net/membership

A day in paradise. The PATC, in coordination with the Virginia Native Plant Society, will be conducting a invasive plant removal day at Thompson Wildlife Management area near Linden, Virginia from 10AM - 3:00 PM. This area is one of the most outstanding botanical sites in the Virginia Blue Ridge. Unfortunately, the native flora of Thompson is increasingly threatened by non-native invasive plant species. On March 21st, we'll concentrate our efforts on pulling garlic mustard (*Alliaria petioilata*) rosettes. No prior experience is necessary. Training will be provided on-site. Please bring seasonal appropriate clothing (never forget rain gear), gloves, water, a sack lunch and a small trowel if you have one. Be prepared to hike several miles and squat or bend over repeatedly - all with the satisfaction that you are helping to protect a truly special natural area. We will meet at the the first Thompson Wildlife parking area on the right just north of the Fox Meadow winery on Freezeland Rd. GPS Coordinates are 38.9397° N 78.039°W. Look for PATC sign. https://maps.app.goo.gl/xaPANbEa7awF6m36A Questions? Email Natural_Resource@patc.net From the east: Take I-66 West to exit18 (toward Markham). Left on VA-688 Right on VA-55W (4.2m). Right on State Rte 638 -Freezeland Rd. Parking lot will be on right (3.8m) From the west: Take I-66 East to exit 13 for VA-79 toward Linden/VA-55. Right onto VA-79S. Left onto VA-55E (1.3m). Left onto State Rte 638 – Freezeland Rd. Parking lot will be on right (3.8 m)

Questions/lost? Call 240-447-4796 Meeting point - https://maps.app.goo.gl/qD44jnTAn4xmgWKj8 https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington-dc/walking-remy 2.3mi Length 357ft Elevation gain 1–1.5hr Estimated time Loop The West Ridge Trail Loop offers a well-maintained, wide trail that takes hikers through a diverse landscape featuring bigleaf maples and willows. This variety of trees provides plenty of shade and a beautiful backdrop of flora and fauna throughout the hike. Certain sections can become slippery and muddy, especially after rainfall. A picnic area along the loop is perfect for taking a break and enjoying the natural surroundings.

*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 an 9.1 mile out and back hike with about a 1,300 ft elevation gain near Fort Valley, VA. The first mile is uphill to the Massanuten Trail. We follow that south to the Woodstock Tower. The views from up there are nice and unobstructed for 360 degrees. We then return the way we came. The trail is pretty well maintained but overgrown in places. Hiking pants and sticks are recommended. We'll hike at a 2.0 to 2.5 mph. We will start hiking at 0900. Hiking map: [https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/woodstock-tower-via-mine-gap-and-massanutten-trail?u=i&sh=5vghox](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/woodstock-tower-via-mine-gap-and-massanutten-trail?u=i&sh=5vghox) Grid coordinates for trailhead: 38.89716, -78.40461 Rating: B Leader: Dick Pregent 703-587-2359 Park Entry Fee: $0 **NOTE: The road to the trailhead is rough with ruts and potholes. Parking is *VERY* limited at the trailhead. Carpooling is strongly encouraged.** The suggested carpool location is at the Centerville P&R. The driving time from there to the trailhead is about 1 hour. Please arrive at the Park and Ride a few minutes before 7:30 AM to form carpool so all cars can leave at 7:30 AM. Suggested carpool fee is $5. Hike leader will not be at carpool location. Neither the Club nor the hike leaders are responsible for coordinating transportation to/from the trailhead. Hikers are not guaranteed to get a ride to the trailhead from the carpool location. Carpooling is organized by the participants and they participate at their own risk. Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy)

Join us for an easy hike along the **Difficult Run Trail to Great Falls Park** and kick off your day with **great company** and engaging conversations! The trail is **mostly flat**, but a **246-foot incline within Great Falls Park** will give us a fun little cardio challenge. Don’t worry - we’ll pause at the top to regroup, hydrate, and catch our breath while soaking in the views. Whether you're here for the exercise, the scenery, or the chance to meet like-minded people, this hike has something for everyone! This trail is packed with sights: enjoy picturesque views along Difficult Run Stream and breathtaking overlooks of the Potomac River from up high. We’ll even come across a picnic table at the top of one incline, the perfect spot to rest, take in the view, and soak up some good vibes! Afterward, join us for an optional lunch at Mookie's BBQ to relax and unwind after our hike. **Meeting Time & Location** Meet at 9:30 AM at [Cross County Trail Access Point (Leigh Mill Rd & Kelso Rd)](https://maps.app.goo.gl/btDGQg7gphrVJdmB7). If you're running a bit late, you can catch up with us at the Difficult Run parking lot off Georgetown Pike - we’ll pass through about 30 minutes into the hike. **Distance:** 5 miles **Difficulty:** Easy (246 feet of elevation gain) This hike is rated Easy for its gentle terrain, wide paths, and manageable 246 feet of elevation gain. * **Easy Water Crossing:** Large stepping stones make the stream crossing simple and safe. * **No Rock Scrambling or Steep Climbs:** The trail has no steep rocky sections or scrambling required. * **Mild Inclines:** The mostly flat route includes a gentle 246 foot incline within Great Falls Park. **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** Plenty of parking is available. You can park off Route 683 by [Cross County Trail Access Point (Leigh Mill Rd & Kelso Rd)](https://maps.app.goo.gl/btDGQg7gphrVJdmB7) (be sure to park head-in, with your car clear of the street). Additional parking is on the shoulder of Kelso Road. The trailhead is at the intersection of Route 683 and Kelso Road, marked with a crosswalk. **Trail Map (AllTrails):** [Take a Hike! (DMV) - Difficult Run to Great Falls Park](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/difficult-run-from-683-23fa71c) **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 an optional lunch after the hike at **Mookie's BBQ, 1141 Walker Rd, Great Falls, VA 22066**. It’s a perfect way to relax and unwind after our time outdoors!

We will be hiking the loop trail, (counter clockwise) around the BeaverDam Reservoir starting at the brand new Reservoir Park VisitorsCenter. Beautiful views of the water and varied woodland areas. This is an 7.5 Mile loop hike around one of Northern Virginia's largest bodies of water. The loop is mainly flat with a tiny hill or two. I've rated the loop moderate because the distance is 7.5 miles. After the hike we'll head over to Lark Brewing. 24205 James Monroe Hwy, Aldie, VA 20105 for food and beverages. \*\* I will make every effort for your safety. You are hiking at your own risk. Dogs are welcome on the hike as long as they are good with groups, friendly and you follow all leash laws. I like kids but this is an adult event so please no kids or any one under 21.\*\* Reservoir Park Trail on AllTrails https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/reservoir-park-trail?sh=lkkoxr&utm_medium=trail_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality

Alright people, it's 2026. Let's start the hiking season off with an easier classic - Raven Rocks. Raven Rocks is a short out-and-back section of the AT that ends with a stunning view. The terrain is very rocky (wear good shoes), but this hike should be relatively quick. Wear layers as the temps can change quickly this time of year. We will meet at Vienna Metro at 9AM and carpool to the trailhead. Drive time is about 45 mins - Please post a comment below if you are willing to drive. Carpooling saves the environment and makes friends. ## **Trail Facts** * **Difficulty Level:** Moderate * **Length:** 5.7 Miles * **Duration:** 4 hrs * **Elevation Gain:** 1,535 Feet * **Permits:** No * **Parking:** Vienna Metro Station South * **Dogs:** Allowed * **Trailhead Coordinates:** 39.116468, -77.852405 * **AllTrails Map**: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/raven-rocks-via-appalachian-trail **Trail Details:** This out-and-back hike is considered moderate, but some locals call it "the rollercoaster" due to it winding up and down over several ridges. The view from Raven Rocks is spectacular and worth going uphill both ways. Dogs are allowed on this trail (please use a leash). A note on parking - If you plan to be one of the drivers, the parking at the trailhead is very limited. If the lot at the trailhead is full, there is a large commuter lot across VA 7. Do **not** park along Pine Rd (road that leads to the trailhead lot) as it is very likely you will be towed. On the way back, I plan to stop at Lark Brewing Co in Aldie, VA. The address is 24205 James Monroe Hwy, Aldie, VA 20105. **LIABILITY NOTICE:** Please remember that this group operates under the common adventurer model. We are a group of friends and volunteers organizing trips for fun and shared experience. Participants are expected to be familiar with best hiking practices and choose hikes that align with their physical abilities and experience. Organizers and members are not liable for any injuries, loss, or damage to persons or property arising from group activities. By attending this event, you agree to assume all risks associated with the activity.​ For more information on the common adventurer model, please see [Ron Watters' definition](https://www.ronwatters.com/CADefine.htm).​ If you believe you may be lost during the hike, follow the advice of the [US Forest Service](https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/know-before-you-go/if-you-get-lost). ​ See you on the trail!