Weekday Hikes

Looks like Tuesday will be the only summer-like day this week with no chance of rain. I didn't get to join the midweek hike at this spot earlier in the month, so we're doing it again! We'll meet at the trail head to Gorman Stream Valley Park which is just south of the intersection of Old Columbia Road and the Middle Patuxent River. We'll start promptly at 5:30 and turn around after about 40 minutes so we're back well before sunset. Hiking boots are a good idea since some parts of the trail near the river get muddy. Meet in the dirt parking lot at the trail head which is just south of where the road crosses over the water. If there is no parking in the lot, you can park across the street along the road and cross carefully.

Brisk 3- to 4-mile urban hike starting and ending at Dache Beer Garden in Shaw in Northwest DC. We will walk to the U.S. Capitol Building, across the plaza, before returning to Dache for drinks and food. Closest metro stations Shaw Howard and Mt. Vernon Square.

DC has a lot of great theaters throughout the city. This walk will visit a few of them in the downtown area **Theaters:** 1. DAR Constitution Hall 2. Ford’s Theater 3. National Theater 4. Warner Theater 5. Wolly Mammoth Theater 6. Shakespeare Theater 7. Arena Stage **Millage:** 4.0 mi **Start Location:** Farragut West Metro Station **End Location:** Waterfront Metro Station **Map:** [https://maps.app.goo.gl/5DZ5EVwDsGPPsT6P8](https://maps.app.goo.gl/5DZ5EVwDsGPPsT6P8) **Time:** 6 pm - 8:00 pm **Terrain:** This will be mostly flat, on paved or gravel ground We try to be punctual with our event times so please be respectful to others and show up a few minutes early, because we will leave without you. Note, we often limit the RSVPs to keep group sizes manageable. We're always looking for new leaders who can showcase their neighborhood or any cool places they know, so please reach out either at an event or on meetup if you are interested. If you've enjoyed our walks please consider donating a few bucks to help us keep this group walking (meetup is expensive!). [Donation Link](https://venmo.com/code?user_id=2158403661070336114)

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. **8.5 mile out and back lariat hike with 984 feet of elevation gain.** **Description:** Join us for a scenic hike in the forest of Fountainhead and along Occoquan Reservoir. We will hike on the Bull Run Occoquan Trail from Fountainhead Regional Park heading west to the Wolf Run, Coe Creek areas and back. There are rolling hills, but they are short and spread out. We'll get an enjoyable workout! **Hiking Pace:** The pace will be about 2.5 mph. **Bring:** At *least 2 liters of water/hydration, snacks/lunch, and sturdy hiking shoes since there are some rocky areas with tree roots and leaves. For the hills, hiking poles if you normally use them.* **WHERE TO MEET**: After pulling into Fountainhead Park (10875 Hampton Road, Fairfax, VA), continue driving in on Fountainhead Access Rd, past the maintenance building on the right. The **large** parking lot is the next turn; it's on the right. Meet at the trailhead parking lot 15 minutes early to allow everyone to sign in and get ready to hike at 9:30am. **GPS 38.72483, -77.33010** **Fee:** There is no parking fee. **Dogs are welcome.** NVHC Dog policy: [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) There are porta-johns at the trailhead at Fountainhead Park parking lot. **Trail Map:** [https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/afternoon-hike-8223de3?u=i&sh=oxfau4](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/afternoon-hike-8223de3?u=i&sh=oxfau4) Optional post-hike rehydration at Bunnyman Brewing Cafe at Lorton Workhouse. Any questions, please message me here or text/call @202-528-0456. If you text me, please include your name.

*Back on March 31 * 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 Naroa, Ryan, 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.

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 A+ hike (strenuous) due to distance and elevation. **PLEASE NOTE**: This hike is only suitable for those who have recent experience hiking this distance and elevation gain. There is a potentially tricky water crossing depending on the water level. Shoe covers are advised. This hike is 12.8ish miles and about 3,100 feet of elevation gain. We will start the hike on the Graves Mill Trail then take the Staunton River Trail to the Fork Mountain Fire Road to the Jones Mountain Trail, where we’ll eventually hit Bear Church Rock, then back to the Staunton River Trail and Graves Mill Trail to the cars. **For those wishing to CARPOOL**, the suggested carpool location is at the Centreville Park and Ride, 14700 Lee Highway, Centreville, VA. The driving time from there to the trailhead is approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes (with no stop). Please arrive at the Park and Ride before 7:00 AM to form carpools **so all cars can leave at 7:00 AM sharp**. **I WILL BE AT THE CARPOOL LOCATION.** PLEASE NOTE: 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 participation is at your own risk. Suggested carpool fee: $9.00 per rider. **Need-to-know info:** * CARPOOLING: See above. Parking is limited so carpooling is advised. * Distance: 12.8ish miles * Elevation gain: 3,100ish ft. * Pace: 2.5 - 2.7 mph overall * Trailhead meetup time: 8:45 A.M. Hike starts at 9:00 A.M. **SHARP**. * **Parking Coordinates: 38.43714,-78.36709** * Park Entry fee: $0 * Carpool Fee: $9 * Pace: 2.5-2.7 mph when moving. * Terrain: Somewhat rocky, steep and gentle grades, three stream crossings * Bring: Adequate water, lunch/snacks, hat, tick/bug spray, basic first aid kit, map, rain gear (depending), hiking poles, hiking shoes, boot covers for the stream crossing (just to be prepared) and a good attitude. * Pets: Allowed per NVHC guidelines. Must be leashed PLEASE PRINT OUT ANY MAPS THAT YOU MAY NEED. ALL THE LINKS AND COORDINATES YOU WILL NEED HAVE BEEN PROVIDED. AllTrails Map: [https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/reverse-bear-church-rock-de03bef](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/reverse-bear-church-rock-de03bef) Any questions? Message or call the Hike Leader: Caroline S (703)489-1315

Let’s have a leisurely walk to see what is blooming. Plants and trees are exploding everywhere. If anyone is interested we can go to The Stained Glass Pub which has half price pizza on Tuesdays. Let’s meet to the right facing the visitors center.

**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 9:45 for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 10:00 **Directions to Trailhead**: The GPS Coordinates are 39.240879,-76.749977 The Street address to the park is 12420 Pennyfield Lock Road Tobytown, MD 20854. Pennyfield Lock Road is about 5.5 northwest of Potomac Village on River Road. Turn left onto Pennyfield Lock Road and take it to the very end. We will meet by the Porta-Johns. **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 at the trailhead **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 UNLESS YOU ARE ON THE "GOING" LIST. -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).

Maryland Heights is one of Adventuring’s most popular hikes. It starts in the picturesque and historic town of Harpers Ferry, WV and provides spectacular views along the way and directly above Harpers Ferry. This scenic and historic hike is also physically challenging, but for those able to make the climb, the rewards will be stupendous. After a lovely walk through the Lower Town of Harpers Ferry and then along the Potomac on the C&O Canal, we’ll begin the steep upward trek to the summit, where the remnants of the Civil War Stone Fort await. We’ll then descend to the magnificent Harpers Ferry Overlook. For those interested, we'll stop afterwards at the nearby Harpers Ferry Brewery, which has its own lovely view of the Shenandoah River, or grab a bite to eat on our drive back. Total length of this strenuous outing should be about 7.5 miles, with 1700 feet of often-steep elevation gain. We'll meet to form our carpool at 8:45 a.m. in the Kiss & Ride lot of the Grosvenor-Strathmore Metro Station. We plan to leave at 9 a.m. sharp. Bring plenty of beverages, lunch (there will be a Sheetz stop for those who don’t want to prepare lunch at home), sturdy hiking boots, and the $5 Adventuring fee, plus $10 to reimburse your carpool driver if you're a passenger. If no one in your car has a National Parks or Military Pass, the Park entrance fee is $20 per vehicle, a cost that would be shared among the vehicle's occupants. (We'll try to arrange the carpool so that each car has at least one person with a Pass.) If you want to drive directly to the Park, please be there by 10:30. The address is: 171 Shoreline Drive, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425. When you sign up, Meetup will ask you questions about whether you can be a carpool driver or whether you will drive directly to the park. Please answer these questions so we can properly arrange this outing. NEW! Please [click here](https://adventuringlgbtq.com/Adventuring_Release_Form.pdf) to review our release form. When you RSVP to an event, you affirm that you have read and agree to the terms of the release.

Hiking by the lake is so peaceful! Join us for a fun Spring hiking trail tucked away between deep woodland canopies featuring quiet ponds and lakeside views. \*\* You must Register here: https://www.destinationhike.com/events/woodland-lake-hike \*\* Spring is here! What a wonderful time to get out and hike beautiful trails across the DMV! **Once you register, please look for a detailed email from info@destinationhike.com.** \* Excerpt from Destination Hike Waiver\* *Hiking is a recreational activity that has an inherent risk of danger. While hiking I may be exposed to dangers and hazards, not limited to: heat, stroke, dehydration, bee stings, tick bites, snake bites, loss of balance, inclement weather, falling rocks, fatigue, wildlife, negligence of others, drowning, and/or death. Please review full waiver prior to registering for any Destination Hike event.* How to prepare? 1\. Wear comfortable shoes\. If you have hiking boots that would be preferred\. However\, if you have not committed to buying hiking shoes\, wear comfortable tennis shoes\. 2\. Check the weather for the day and dress appropriately\. When you are hiking in the Spring\, you need to pay attention to what the weather may be for that day\. There is always a possibility for rainy weather\. Allergens may be higher\, and there may be more bugs out\. You will want to dress in layers\, so you can take off and put on layers as necessary\. Also\, make sure you wear solid footwear with grips on the bottom\. Hiking boots are strongly encouraged\. Spring can bring wet trails that can be slick if you are not wearing appropriate footwear\. 3\. Bring a small to medium size back pack\. This is to carry any personal items; cell phone\, water\, personal medication\, and any other items you may need\. 4\. Always bring a at ***least*** 1L of water. Make sure you have hydrated the day before, and the day of the hike. 5\. Remember\, there are no bathrooms in nature\, so stay hydrated but make sure you are good to hike without needing a bathroom\. If you do need to use the bathroom\, nature will be your stall\. 6\. Suggested: Download the AllTrails app\. Trail app will be provided in confirmation email\. Any additional questions, comments, or concerns, email info@destinationhike.com

Let's explore the stunning vistas of Strickler Knob and Duncan Knob in Virginia's Massanutten Mountains. ## Trail Facts * **Difficulty Level: Strenuous** * **Meeting Location**: Vienna Metro Station​ South * **Meeting Time**: 9:00 AM​ * **Driving Time**: Approximately 2 hours each way​ * **Length:** 9.7 Miles * **Elevation Gain:** 2,152 Feet * **Dogs:** Allowed (with caution - the scramble is not recommended for dogs) * **Trailhead Coordinates:** 38.708202, -78.561530 * **AllTrails Map**: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/strickler-knob-and-duncan-knob-loop **CARPOOL:** If you need a ride or can offer one, please coordinate in the event comments. Be a friend to the environment, save money, and make friends. This trail in the Massanutten Mountains is renowned for its challenging routes and breathtaking panoramic views. The trail features well-marked paths with modest climbs. The highlights of this hike are the out-and-back scrambles to Duncan Knob and Strickler Knob, both offering spectacular views. ​I expect this hike to be moderate, but caution that it can be strenous. **Trail Details:** We will meet at The Vienna Metro station on Sunday morning at 9am and drive the trailhead. The drive is about 2 hours. Upon arrival, we'll head towards Duncan Knob and make a short out-and-back hike/scramble to enjoy the view. Afterward, we'll proceed along the trail towards Strickler Knob. The out-and-back hike to Strickler Knob offers 360-degree views of the surrounding area. After returning to the junction, we'll then finish the loop, first descending and then climbing back to the parking area.​ I plan to stop at 2 Silos Brewing Co in Manassas on the way home - address is 9925 Discovery Blvd, Manassas, VA 20109. *Note: Be prepared for varying temperatures; layering is key.* **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!

(Trailhead hike) Explore one of the newest state parks in Virginia. The park is located in the picturesque "oxbow" area of the North Shenandoah River. Moderate hikers will cover Hikes include the Eagle's Edge Trail, River Bend Rise Trail, Massanutten Trail, Talus Trail, Reservoir Trail and Gakotta Trail, while long hikers will add a there-and-back on the Massanutten Trail. Est.: 11.5 miles, 2000' elevation, and 8.5 miles, 1500' elevation. Park map. Hike fee: $5. Trailhead: Seven Bends State Park, 2111 S. Hollingsworth Rd. Woodstock, VA, 10:00 AM Driving Directions From Vienna Metro Station to Seven Bends State Park, VA, Hollingsworth Road Entrance 1. Follow I-66 West for around 62 miles. 2. Take exit 1A to merge onto I-81 S toward Roanoke. Follow I-81 South for 17.4 miles. 3. Take exit 283 for VA-42 toward Woodstock. 4. Turn left to go East on VA-42/W Reservoir Rd. 5. Continue straight through the town of Woodstock. 6. In about a mile, turn right onto Hollingsworth Road. Drive across the one lane bridge and turn left to stay on Hollingsworth Road. 7. Continue Hollingsworth Road to Seven Bends State Park entrance. Without traffic, the trip is 1 hour, 20 minutes 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 a 2-mph pace. New hikers are required to first complete a moderate hike. **Liability Waiver:** Many of our hikes take place in remote wilderness areas where cell phone service is not available. Any person participating in any Club activity is responsible for their own safety, health and welfare, and must assume all risks and liabilities related to all Club activities. The Club, its hike leaders, hike sweeps, officers, and other representatives are not liable for any injuries, losses, or damage to persons, children, pets, and/or property, arising from any trips or activities of the Club. You are responsible for bringing enough water, food, and first aid supplies, including those for your personal medical conditions. CANCELLATION POLICY To cancel and receive a full bus hike refund, less a $5 processing fee, you must change your RSVP to "No" on Meetup **before NOON on the Friday** before the hike. If you change your RSVP after noon on the Friday before the hike, no refunds will be issued. Cancellations to Metro/carpool/trailhead hikes will not issue a financial refund, but hiker must change their Meetup RSVP to NO so that leaders do not wait for them at the trailhead. COVID PRECAUTIONS Anyone experiencing symptoms of upper respiratory illness should not attend the event. MORE DETAILS -- [SEE THE FAQS ON OUR WEBSITE](http://www.wanderbirds.org/faq.html)

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.

Let’s walk the gardens and enjoy what has spring has on display.

Join Losing Weight in Columbus for a late morning walk at the Scioto Park! We'll meet up by the climbing wall at 12:30 and go for a moderately paced walk. We will aim to go for an hour, but can cut it shorter if needed. This will be a casual, but active walk where we chat with each other, discuss goals, and have some friendly banter along the way!

Hi ladies. Let's hike the Edward Thomas, Spring Creek, and a little multi-purpose trail - approximately 4 miles. Please bring a water bottle as needed and appropriate shoes. Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area.