Weekday Hikes

**Bring a flash light.** Some of the walk is lit with street lights. Some is not. We will be hiking along the historic Alexandria waterfront down and through scenic Old Town to the Wilson bridge and back. Lovely views of the river, as well as of Old Town. Part of the walk is on the Mount Vernon Trail bike path. Hike is mostly flat, and on paved surfaces or board walk. Please note the hike leaves at 600PM sharp. There are bathrooms at the halfway point. **Meet at the small parking area closest to the bike path. First left on Marina Drive. Not the large marina parking area that is further along.** We walk pretty briskly around 3.4-3.8 miles an hour. I assume if you can’t keep up, you can always find your way back to the starting point. Hope you can join our group of stalwart regulars and cheery newcomers. Happy hiking. Most of the walk has street lights, but not all so, but bring a light.

We'll be doing the Harris Teeter/NIH loop only through the winter

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 mile hike with 250’ elevation gain starting at [Runnymeade Park](https://www.herndon-va.gov/departments/recreation/parks-trails-nature/runnymede-park) in Herndon. We will begin on the Sugarland Run and Folly Lick Stream Valley Park trails. After that, we will walk on Herndon Parkway then the \~2 miles on the W&OD Bike Trail through the town of Herndon and return on the Sugarland Run Stream Valley trail. A fair amount of the hike is on paved walkways. We will be in the sun for a good portion of the hike. We hike at a pace of 2.5-3.0 mph when moving. There are some small stream crossings on pylons. High water levels could require postponement of the hike. Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) Meet at Runnymeade Park in Herndon at 8:30am. GPS Coordinates: 38.972193, -77.369569 [https://goo.gl/maps/norbMTUSAbDFMPju7](https://goo.gl/maps/norbMTUSAbDFMPju7) Depending on the direction you come from you may have to make a U-turn to get to the park entrance. Parking is limited, if it is full you will need to proceed a couple of blocks away and park on Leona Lane in a nearby subdivision. Leader: Ed Brimberg 703-944-9920(C) Park Entry Fee: $0.00 AllTrails Map for hike: [https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/morning-hike-at-herndon-stream-valley-parks-ebe4bab?u=i&sh=7cs7ov](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/morning-hike-at-herndon-stream-valley-parks-ebe4bab?u=i&sh=7cs7ov)

DCC's "Monday Moves" City Tour to DC Monuments and Points of Interest Join DCC and Conte’s Bike Shop (Navy Yard) for a fun 20 mile ride to the Capitol, Hains Point, Jefferson Memorial, FDR Memorial, MLK, Jr. Memorial, National Park Services Stables, Korean War Veterans Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, World War II Memorial, Monument, DC Wharf, Titanic Memorial, Frederick Douglas Memorial Bridge, Morris Road Overlook. This ride will be geared towards our newer riders (with a chill pace and no one left behind), but all are welcomed. This ride will be on the streets, trails and sidewalks. We will go over things to help riders become more comfortable with riding in groups. We will meet at Conte’s Navy Yard Bike Shop at 10 am and depart at 10:15. All riders should bring their own hydration and nutrition, as well as a spare inner tube. *** Please, no music that can be heard by other riders or ear headphones that impede your hearing. Parking is limited at the Navy Yard, so for those driving, an option is to park at Anacostia Park (aquatic center) and take 11th street bridge to M Street, then a left on 4th. ****all riders ride at their own risk**** If there is a chance of inclement weather expected on Monday, a cancelation notice will be posted by 9:00 pm on Sunday; otherwise, the ride will take place. Below is a link to the ride: (~18 miles and ~586 ft of elevation) https://ridewithgps.com/routes/41286640

On Monday, we'll meet in front of 2100 Clarendon Blvd (https://maps.google.com/maps?q=2100+Clarendon+Blvd&ll=38.889847,-77.084005&spn=0.009704,0.017531&hnear=2100+Clarendon+Blvd,+Arlington,+Virginia+22201&gl=us&t=m&z=16&layer=c&cbll=38.890666,-77.085485&panoid=Vy-Mbkk_fU1USwuw4_R6SQ&cbp=12,140.28,,0,0) around 6:50pm and head out for a nice hilly run at 7pm. We usually head out for a drink after the run. So if you're planning to stay after for drinks, bring your ID/etc. Notes: If you're not familiar with the area, please review the routes. If it's cold, take cover inside the foyer area of 2100 Clarendon Blvd. Photos taken during the event may end up on Instagram, Meetup, Strava and similar platforms. Routes: We'll alternate between the following routes. Both routes are hilly. We'll run 20 minutes out and then turn around and run 20 minutes back to Courthouse. Everyone runs at his/her own pace, so the distance will depend on your speed. 1. Courthouse to Georgetown Waterfront (one giant hill) (https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/6264227038/) Veitch St. to the Custis Trail; downhill to Key Bridge; over to the Georgetown Waterfront. 2. Courthouse to Custis Trail West (rolling hills) (https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/6600124130) Veitch St. to the Custis Trail; West toward Glebe Rd. Pace: All paces are welcome! We'll be doing an out and back route, so everyone will just turn around at the halfway time marker. That way we should all start and end at the same time. Free Parking at Courthouse Plaza: The underground garage (http://tiny.cc/OmKZx) is on Clarendon Blvd btwn Wayne and Veitch Sts. (near Strayer/CVS and the AMC Theater). If the first 2 levels on the left are full, you can park on the lower levels to the right. Street and Surface Parking lots should be free in the area as well. Metro: Orange or Silver line to Courthouse Station.

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!

**DESCRIPTION**: Hurray! C & O Canal National Park's Billy Goat B trail has finally reopened, Let's walk it now before extensive undergrowth blocks our views. Less than 3 miles in less than 3 hours, this is a slow walk, **but on very rocky terrain** with slopes and a stream to cross. We will make full stops to enjoy exceptional river scenery. So much to see and hear and enjoy with many natural curiosities (impressive rock formations, long river vistas and islands and white water stretches, overlooks to climb, beaver lodges, and possibly bird and frog songs). **MEET** at the red brick restrooms building by 1:00 PM for introductions. Hike starts by 1:15 PM and ends around 4:00 or so. **ADVISORY**: This walk is NOT recommended for anyone with stiffness, balance, bending nor range of movement problems. My companion, last week, slipped and fell (not injured). Using poles and watching our footsteps, when we get to rocky and steep parts, we may stoop and stretch in a gingerly manner. The trail, itself, is 1.4 miles and the canal towpath back adds another mile or so to make a loop. https://liveandlethike.com/2016/09/17/billy-goat-trail-section-b-chesapeake-ohio-canal-national-historical-park-md/ **WAIVER:** All participants will sign a Sierra Club sign-in sheet with waiver before we set off on our walk. **BRING**: (Weather forecast is for 80 degrees Tuesday.) Lots of water and sturdy hiking footwear with grooves and traction are essential, hiking pole(s) (We will cross a stream), back pack, sun hat, sun block, layers for changeable hot weather, old plastic shopping bag or other to sit upon, snack, binoculars, camera.

**Park Map / MD Bus** _$36. Long hike: 9½ mi., 2800 ft. ascent. Moderate hike: 7 mi., 2300 ft. ascent._ This hike will take us along the challenging but beautiful River Hills section of the Conestoga Trail along the eastern bank of the Susquehanna River. Moderate hikers start at the Tucquan Glen Trail junction at River Road (PA 3017). Following the Glen downstream for 2 miles, they turn left on the Conestoga Trail and ascend The Pinnacles with its panoramic view of the Susquehanna River. Descending the Conestoga to Kelly’s Run, they follow Kelly’s Run Trail to the Holtwood Arboretum. Long hikers start at the Pequea Campground and follow the Conestoga Trail down Pequea Creek to the Susquehanna, where they turn south (downstream) past the famous Wind Cave (the largest tectonic cave in Pennsylvania) to Tucquan Glen. They then follow the moderate route on the Conestoga to The Pinnacles and up Kelly’s Run. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- RESERVATIONS Capital Hiking Club is a non-profit group, and the public is invited on all trips. Reservations are accepted as late as Friday, but reserving before Wednesday night helps ensure your spot and prevent cancellation of the hike due to low sign-ups. RSVP through Meetup and pay through PayPal. Please be sure your RSVP gives your full name and phone number and where you'll be boarding the bus. We don't want to leave you behind! Because this is a paid event, we cannot offer a waitlist should the hike fill up. If spots subsequently open up, they will become immediately available to anyone and everyone. FIRST-TIME HIKERS If you're a first-time hiker with us, please notify the leaders in advance so they can make sure you have the info you need. Hikers must be able to keep at least a 2 mph pace. BUS STOPS: MARYLAND ROUTING Please arrive 10 to 15 minutes before times listed below. All our bus stops are Metro accessible. If you're driving to meet the bus, we strongly advise using the Grosvenor bus stop, as parking is extremely limited at the others. Bus stops and times are as follows (click links for maps): * **[DC: Near 17th and K St. NW](https://bit.ly/17thandKnu)** downtown (east side of Farragut Square). Bus leaves at 8 a.m. SHARP, so it's essential to arrive well before 8. * **[Connecticut Ave. and Porter St,, NW, northeast corner](http://bit.ly/ConnecticutPorter)**. Bus briefly stops at the curb in front of the Broadmoor Apartments to pick up hikers about 8:10 a.m. * **[Connecticut Ave. and McKinley St., NW, southeast corner](http://bit.ly/ConnecticutMcKinley)**. Bus stops at the bus shelter in front of the Safeway to pick up hikers about 8:20 a.m. * **[Grosvenor-Strathmore Metro Station, North Bethesda](http://bit.ly/Grosv_Metro)**. Bus stops at the bus shelter nearest to Metro Station walkway entrance between the station and the parking garage about 8:30 a.m. LIABILITY By RSVP'ing for a CHC hike, you acknowledge and accept that hikers are responsible for their own safety and must assume risks and liability for all outings. CHC leaders, officers, and representatives shall not be liable for any injuries, loss or damage to persons or property, direct or consequential, arising out of any trips or club activities. Participants will be asked to sign a waiver the day of the hike. CANCELLATION POLICY To cancel and receive a full refund less a $5 processing fee, you must change your RSVP to "No" on Meetup **before 12PM the Thursday** before the hike. If you change your RSVP after 12PM the Thursday before the hike, no refunds will be issued. MORE DETAILS -- **[SEE THE FAQS ON OUR WEBSITE](https://www.capitalhikingclub.org/hikes-faqs)** for answers to questions such as these and many more: * What should I bring on a hike? * Can things be left on the bus during the hike? * When will the bus return to the metro Washington DC area? * Can I drive my car and meet the bus at the hike destination? * Are dogs allowed on hikes?

**Blockhouse: A Moderate 8-Mile Hike Near Potomac, MD** Set within the stunning Blockhouse Point Conservation Park—consistently ranked among the best natural areas in the Montgomery County Park system—this hike offers a rich blend of biodiversity and quiet history. As you hike, you’ll trek through mature upland and floodplain forests, passing tranquil streams and unique river-rock outcrops. The area is a sanctuary for diverse wildlife and serves as a rare botanical haven, home to at least nine species of threatened or endangered plants. While the park’s rugged terrain once served as a strategic wartime transportation route for supplies, it remains a peaceful retreat today. The park’s name and historical significance are rooted in the American Civil War, specifically the year 1862. Following the Battle of Antietam, the Union Army constructed a series of blockhouses—sturdy timber fortifications—along the bluffs to defend the vital Potomac River crossings and the C&O Canal from Confederate raids. These outposts were manned by the 19th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, who kept a watchful eye on the supply lines into Washington, D.C. While the site was high-stakes and strategically vital, it is a rare historical gem because it never saw an actual skirmish; the soldiers spent their time on picket duty and reconnaissance rather than combat. Today, eagle-eyed hikers can still find the subtle earthen mounds and remnants of the foundations where these defensive structures once stood, serving as silent monuments to the soldiers who guarded the river. The hike begins in the deep woodlands before descending toward the C&O Canal Towpath. As you walk along the water’s edge, keep an eye out for sunbathing turtles and elegant Blue Herons while soaking in sweeping views of the Potomac River. The route also offers a glimpse into the region’s industrial past as you pass by the historic Violet’s and Pennyfield Locks. To cap off the journey, the trail climbs back into the shaded forest, culminating in a series of magnificent vistas. Be sure to pack a lunch or a snack to enjoy at the Blockhouse Overlook, where you can relax and take in one of the most grand perspectives of the river valley below. **Time to Meet**: Please meet at 9:15 for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 9:30 **Directions to Trailhead**: The address is 14750 MD-190 · Potomac, MD, which is 6.5 miles north out of Potomac Village, Maryland on River Road **GPS Coordinates**: 39.066198, -77.304711 **Contact Information**: Please use the comments feature for routine comments and questions. The hike Leader is Tim; 202-744-0289. Call or text as needed. **Details** Rating: Moderate Distance: 8 miles Elevation Gain: 600 feet Pace: 2.0 to 2.5 miles per hour **Facilities**: Portable bathrooms about two miles into the hike **Fees**: No entrance fees **Cancellation**: In the unlikely event that the hike needs to be cancelled, it may be cancelled up to the evening before the hike. Hikers will be notified through comments on this posting. **Weather**: The weather for this location can be found [here.](https://weather.com/weather/today/l/690036e3ff6946c13bced978e7393968725ea6a1ed2958c0052a973f390e4af3) **Notes**: -Please note, you must sign up at by 8:00 PM the day before the hike. -Please do not show up unregistered. -Please keep this a fragrance free event. -To find out more about PATC, [click here](https://www.patc.net/). -Consider becoming a member of PATC. To join, [click here](https://www.patc.net/membership).

*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.* (7ish-mile \*FUN\* exercise loop hike on the National Mall with occasional nano-runs [or optional fast walks].) We'll \*BRISKLY\* hike 7ish flat miles along dirt and paved trails and multiple staircases at the National Mall with stops roughly every 1/4 to 1/2 mile for 2 minutes of bodyweight exercises. Before each stop, we'll do a 30-second NANO-RUN (or fast walk or stairs). All exercises are modifiable and partner exercises are optional. We'll cover much of the National Mall. Starting at the restrooms by the (closed) World War II Memorial, we'll head past the Washington Monument and the Smithsonian's museums to the Capitol. Then we'll head to the Jefferson Memorial and follow the Potomac River to the Watergate steps (where First Lady Michelle Obama exercised on "The Biggest Loser" TV show. We'll hit the Lincoln Memorial and Constitution Gardens before returning to the WWII Memorial. There will be SELFIES! **MEET:** 9 am, bathrooms by World War II Memorial, 17 Street, SW at Independence Avenue, SW. Copy these GPS coordinates into Google Maps: 38.888064, -77.041273 **CLOSEST METRO:** Smithsonian Metro, 12th Street SW at Jefferson Drive SW, The National Mall. [https://www.wmata.com/rider-guide/stations/smithsonian.cfm](https://www.wmata.com/rider-guide/stations/smithsonian.cfm) **PARKING:** Please read the meters (and/or consult Parkmobile) before you park and check DC's parking website because parking is no longer free on the Mall and you can only park for 3 hours. It appears that you can still get FREE METERED STREET PARKING if you park A COUPLE OF BLOCKS OFF THE NATIONAL MALL on Sunday. There is likely free on-street parking by Virginia Avenue but I'm waiting to confirm that. Subway or private parking lot is recommended because 4.5 hours of metered parking may not be available. Consult DC's website: [https://www.parkdc.com/documents/20119eec435540ee8b6c49fcc314ac6c/explore](https://www.parkdc.com/documents/20119eec435540ee8b6c49fcc314ac6c/explore) **BRING:** Mandatory water, sense of humor, and sense of awe. Optional: oversized TRASH BAG TO SIT ON if you don't want to sit on the dirt or grass, gloves for pushups/planks, fully charged cell phone, and snack. **PLEASE READ. YOU \*WILL\* BE GRADED ON THIS: ;)** 1\. Adults only\. 2\. No pets\, including albino squirrels \(which we may see on the Mall\)\. 3\. Please do NOT attend unless you are experienced with bodyweight exercises\, you have done recent strength workouts\, and you can and will safely and cheerfully keep up with our moderate to BRISK pace \(about 3 mph while moving\)\. All exercises are optional and modifiable. Generally we'll do bodyweight exercises such as squats, lunges, situps, pushups, planks, wall sits, star jumps -- get that iPhone ready for the jumping pix! -- and other typical "boot camp" exercises. Hike leader is \*NOT\* a certified fitness trainer but just passing on exercises she has learned from fitness classes. Finish time is approximate for planning purposes. **WEATHER:** Hike will likely be cancelled or rescheduled due to rain/sleet/snow. Weather forecast will be posted here on March 21 by 5 p.m. **RESTROOMS:** At the start and along the mall. (But there could be lines.) **WORLD WAR II MEMORIAL:** (Closed for repairs but we're meeting at the restrooms.) [https://www.nps.gov/wwii/index.htm](https://www.nps.gov/wwii/index.htm) **NATIONAL MALL MAP:** [https://www.nps.gov/nama/planyourvisit/maps.htm](https://www.nps.gov/nama/planyourvisit/maps.htm) **PARKMOBILE:** https://parkmobile.io[https://parkmobile.io](https://parkmobile.io)

Hi ladies. We will meet in front of the Nature Center and head to the two Observation decks. We will then hike Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook and Sugarbush trails to get approximately four miles total distance. We will walk approximately a 18 minute mile pace. Please wear appropriate hiking shoes.

Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area. If trail conditions are poor, we will use the Multipurpose Path.

Hike approx 4.0 miles at approx. 18 minute mile pace. Meet in front of the Nature Center.