Walking Tours

**AWS Cloud Carnival: Cloud Computing + Hands-on Workshop** ☁️🎡🚀 Welcome to **AWS Cloud Carnival**, a power-packed and exciting cloud event where learning meets real-world technology! If you’ve ever been curious about **AWS, Cloud Computing, or DevOps**, this is the perfect chance to start your journey with a fun and interactive experience. Get ready for an engaging session filled with **live demos, hands-on learning, real cloud concepts, and career guidance** — all designed specially for students and beginners. To attend the event **in person**, it is mandatory to claim your **free ticket** from the link below. **Get your free ticket here:** [https://konfhub.com/aws-cloud-carnival](https://konfhub.com/aws-cloud-carnival) **What’s inside the Carnival?** ✨ Introduction to Cloud Computing & AWS ⚡ Explore AWS Core Services (EC2, S3, IAM, VPC) 🛠️ Hands-on demo sessions and practical learning 🚀 Cloud + DevOps basics (deployment & real use cases) 🎓 Career roadmap + certifications guidance 🤝 Networking with cloud enthusiasts & community members **Featured Speakers:** ***Sagar Khangan*** Principal Software Engineer \| Senior Engineering Manager Stealth Startup (India · Remote) Session: "Starting Your Cloud Journey with AWS" ***Dr. Purshottam A*** Enterprise Architect ( ex-Amazon ) Session: Enterprise Cloud Architecture & Career Roadmap **Who should attend?** ✅ Students (Beginner to Intermediate) ✅ Developers & Tech Enthusiasts ✅ Anyone interested in building a career in Cloud & DevOps **Event Details:** 📅 Date: 14 March 2026 (Saturday) ⏰ Time: 12:00 PM – 04:00 PM IST 📍 Venue: Seminar Hall, Ratan Tata Maharashtra State Skills University 🎟️ **Limited seats available!** Don’t miss this chance to learn, build, and experience the cloud world with AWS. 🚀 Register now and be a part of the **AWS Cloud Carnival!**

Who needs history books when you have cemeteries marking waves of migration, settlement, epidemics, and war casualties? On this 6-mile walk we’ll pay respects to Rockville’s famous son, F. Scott Fitzgerald, visit headstones bearing the names of streets and schools, and stroll through historic African American neighborhoods and streets that witnessed civil war and civil rights history. Other highlights include pristine historical homes, an infamous asylum, and the misplaced monument, hidden in plain sight. Co-host Andrew also adds his signature secret passages and 'tree of the trek'. Browse more info with this [MAP](https://www.peerlessrockville.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/154151_Mad_Duck_Creative_LL_proof_141635-1.pdf) here! Path conditions: **6+ mile walk, mostly paved except for cemetery and park grounds...** Elevation gain: 500ft; a few gentle hills... Pace: 2.5mph Where to find us: Meet by the MARC sign on the East side of the Rockville Metro Station (see photo). The East side has a large parking lot (free on weekends) off of Stonestreet Ave.; if you see the skywalk over Rte. 355/Hungerford you’re on the wrong side. Please arrive around 9:15 so that we can start at 9:30 sharp. Bathrooms: Porta potties available en route. Well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome. Optional social: Lunch at [Al Carbon](https://alcarbonrockville.com/), a family-run eatery serving up wood-fired Latino fare (please comment if interested in attending). A 'yes/ attending' RSVP is your digital signature that you've read, understood, & agreed to the Mosaic's [Liability Wavier hyperlinked here](https://drive.google.com/file/d/11SKNnO8e53UeSwvOZ58LPsMhRo1rTWat/view).

Join our weekly walking meetup to have fun, maintain a healthy lifestyle, meet new people, and enjoy the weather! We meet Saturdays at 10am, halfway between the Reston *Container Store* and *Not Your Average Joes* (by the metal benches), leaving no later than 10:05. Every week, rain or shine, we start by walking along the Green Trail to reach Lake Anne Community Center. Once there, we pause for water/bio (often staying a few minutes extra from April-November, due to the local Farmer's Market), and then we circle Lake Anne and head back to our starting point. It's roughly 3-4 miles and takes about an hour and a half. Afterwards, some members will often head to *Not Your Average Joes* or another local restaurant for a quick drink/meal before tackling the day. This event is open to all ages and fitness levels. Dogs are welcome, and we recommend dressing for the weather (umbrella, water, snow shoes, hat, etc.) since we'll walk rain or shine. Also, feel free to bring a friend! By signing up, you accept and assume all risks and responsibilities with this activity, and nobody will be held liable.

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!

ST. PATRICK’S DAY Tour of DC’s Noted Irish-Americans—March 17 2026! Let's take a brisk walk around the White House area on the day when everyone is Irish, to learn about the many Irish-Americans key to the history of this historic neighborhood. Meet in front of the Organization of America States (OAS) building, 17th St. and Constitution Ave., N.W., D.C. Thrill over: • The Irishman who finished the Washington Monument • Irish immigrants, the C&O canal, and the K St. and Pennsylvania Avenue riots! • The Irish architect who designed the White House • Was Elvis Irish? • The Irish Mayor’s “Miracle Mansion” that saved his sister from certain death! • An Irish-American co-founder of the U.S. Navy • The Irishwoman whose seductive charms brought down an entire Cabinet, in the biggest scandal in American history! • The Irish-American soldier who led America’s most epic military expedition • The humble Irish doorman who save the White House’s most precious documents from a rampaging army • The Irish-American President whose romance with a foreign spy brought on the wrath of the FBI • The Irish artisan who glorified African-American soldiers • The Irish-American grand dame whose espionage defeated an entire U.S. army • Presidents & politicos of Celtic descent • The photographers of Irish descent who took 10,000 photos of the Civil War • The Emerald Isle washerwoman who saved D.C.’s biggest bank from the depredations of British invaders • The Anglo-Saxon Chief Executive who is an "honorary Irishman". • The tragic killing of the Irishman who was America’s greatest war hero • The Irish person who was D.C.’s greatest philanthropist. When: Tuesday, March 17, 5:45 pm. Meet in front of the [Organization of American States](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=38.892902%2C%20-77.03991) 200 17th St NW · Washington, DC Pre-Register and Pre-Pay via-- PayPal, sending $24 to [paypal.me/EMoser460](http://paypal.me/EMoser460) Or Eventbrite: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/st-patricks-day-tour-of-dcs-noted-irish-americansmarch-17-2026-tickets-1966403314247?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/st-patricks-day-tour-of-dcs-noted-irish-americansmarch-17-2026-tickets-1966403314247?aff=oddtdtcreator) Or: Pay $23 in cash at the start of the tour. Length: About 2 hours. Who: Ed Moser, author of: [https://www.amazon.com/OLD-TOWN-HORROR-Americas-Historic-ebook/dp/B0BX27RWYG/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=](https://www.amazon.com/OLD-TOWN-HORROR-Americas-Historic-ebook/dp/B0BX27RWYG/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=) And: [https://www.amazon.com/Lost-History-Capitol-Tumultuous-Congress-ebook/dp/B099JBSN9Q](https://www.amazon.com/Lost-History-Capitol-Tumultuous-Congress-ebook/dp/B099JBSN9Q) And: [https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-white-houses-unruly-neighborhood-edward-p-moser/1131103788](https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-white-houses-unruly-neighborhood-edward-p-moser/1131103788) And: [https://www.amazon.com/Patriots-America-Things-American-Should-ebook-dp-B076MR3XS3/dp/B076MR3XS3/ref=mt_kindle?_encoding=UTF8&me=&qid=1517173322](https://www.amazon.com/Patriots-America-Things-American-Should-ebook-dp-B076MR3XS3/dp/B076MR3XS3/ref=mt_kindle?_encoding=UTF8&me=&qid=1517173322) We’re the highest-rated D.C. area tour on TripAdvisor!: [https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g28970-d12791843-Reviews-Lafayette_Square_Tour_of_Scandal_Assassination_Intrigue-Washington_DC_District_of.html](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g28970-d12791843-Reviews-Lafayette_Square_Tour_of_Scandal_Assassination_Intrigue-Washington_DC_District_of.html) The nearest Metro stops are Metro Center and Smithsonian. Pubs and restaurants nearby to raise a glass afterwards!

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

Starting from the Washington Monument at the height of the world-famous cherry blossom season, and skimming the Tidal Basin then heading to the White House’s Lafayette Square, this tour will look at the rich history of America's capital. MEET at the east side of the Washington Monument (the side facing the Capitol Building). NOT the Department of Commerce. App won't display the right site name. Nearest metros: Smithsonian & Metro Center. Driving to the venue is Not recommended during the festive season. It will be crowded; arrive in time. Length: 2 to 2.5 hours. We’ll walk from Washington's Monument to the White House & Lafayette Square. And discover: • Japan's great gift to America • The lost public beach--at the Tidal Basin! • The mysterious Jefferson Pier • The Marquis de Lafayette’s amazing & perilous associations with multiple American Presidents • Where the term "red tape" was invented • Disputes over the Jefferson Memorial • The Washington Monument riot • The city's grand philanthropists • Tales of the Lincoln Memorial • The scoundrel who betrayed Jefferson, killed Hamilton, and tried setting up his own country—with the head of the U.S. Army! • Designer of the White House • Assassination attempts on Presidents • A walk with President Lincoln. • The town's many female heroines • Cracking the secret codes of Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan • The early Navy's greatest hero • The soldier who saved Jefferson from being hanged • The plot that saved Mt. Vernon • And more! Pre-register and prepay via-- Eventbrite: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/peak-bloom-cherry-blossom-dc-history-tour-trees-to-white-house-march-29-tickets-1984701539732?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/peak-bloom-cherry-blossom-dc-history-tour-trees-to-white-house-march-29-tickets-1984701539732?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true) Or PayPal, sending $22 to: [paypal.me/EMoser460](http://paypal.me/EMoser460) You can also pay in cash, $22, at the tour's start. We’re highly rated on TripAdvisor: [https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g28970-d12791843-Reviews-Lafayette_Square_Tour_of_Scandal_Assassination_Intrigue-Washington_DC_District_of.html](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g28970-d12791843-Reviews-Lafayette_Square_Tour_of_Scandal_Assassination_Intrigue-Washington_DC_District_of.html) Your tour guide is a former speechwriter to the President of the United States, a former writer for Jay Leno’s “The Tonight Show”, & author of books on the hidden history of the White House, the Capitol Building, and Alexandria, Virginia: The White House's Unruly Neighborhood: [https://www.amazon.com/White-Houses-Unruly-Neighborhood-Lafayette-ebook/dp/B082ZVDCD7/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=](https://www.amazon.com/White-Houses-Unruly-Neighborhood-Lafayette-ebook/dp/B082ZVDCD7/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=) And: The Lost Capitol: [https://www.amazon.com/Lost-History-Capitol-Tumultuous-Congress-ebook/dp/B099JBSN9Q](https://www.amazon.com/Lost-History-Capitol-Tumultuous-Congress-ebook/dp/B099JBSN9Q) And a forthcoming book on Georgetown! Questions? Contact: [191.EP.JM.56@proton.me](mailto:191.EP.JM.56@proton.me) Think history is boring? Not on our tours! Restaurants available for dinner afterwards, at the Old Ebbitt Grill, The Hamilton, et al. Celebrate the blossoming of spring and the Easter season with a fun, informative tour of America's most historic, scenic venues!

Hello Adventurous Hikers!!! Welcome to another alternate Saturday hike at 8:30 AM! This hike is planned for the coming Saturday (sorry for the short notice) and **will NOT be at Great Falls Park.** We will meet at the Roosevelt Island parking lot at the end nearest the entrance. Note that this lot is accessible ONLY from the northbound George Washington Parkway. If you will be coming from Virginia on I-66, you will have to cross the Roosevelt bridge, exit onto Independance Ave, make a quick U-turn and re-cross the bridge back to Virginia to access the NB GW. The parking lot entrance comes up almost immediately on the right once you enter the parkway. **Note that the start time is 8:30 to ensure a parking spot.** The hike will be from the parking lot north along the river on the Potomac Heritage trail to Chain Bridge - about 9 miles roundtrip. There are a couple of stream crossings that are not difficult and one rock scramble (with "handrail" - see photo). If anyone has enough energy left, we can then hike onto and around Roosevelt Island if you have never done so. That trail is flat and a lot of it is on a boardwalk. If anyone from Herndon, Reston, or Sterling wants to carpool with me, I can accomodate 3 hikers! Please ask me directly if you have any questions. Hike may be cancelled if there is not sufficiant interest so sign up soon! Thanks Dick