Weekday Hikes

Let's explore the Petworth neighborhood in DC! **Time:** \~6pm-8:15pm **Start/End Location:** Georgia Ave-Petworth metro station **Map/Route:** [Kamoot](https://www.komoot.com/tour/2788247707), [Caltopo](https://caltopo.com/m/02HA9KE) **Millage:** 4.25 **Terrain:** There will mostly be paved and level ground. \-\-\- We try to be punctual with our event times so please be respectful to others and show up a few minutes early. Note, we often limit the RSVPs to keep group sizes manageable. If you are on the waitlist but would really like to join, reach out to the organizer. Our events prioritize metro accessibility by meeting and ending at metro stations. Sometimes we start/stop at the same station, sometimes we do not. Please double check the event description to see if you can manage transportation. If you've enjoyed our walks please consider donating a few bucks to help us keep this group running (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. This is an 7.5-mile hike with 600 feet of elevation gain through the woodlands of Reston and Oakton. On the hike we'll pass horse paddocks and may even see a group of curious goats. This is one of my favorite sections of the Cross County Trail and probably the least traveled. Thanks to Tom Underwood for the photo. We'll start at the Walker Nature Center and pick up the Cross County Trail (CCT) for an out and back of the northern half of CCT Section . Our turn will be at Gabrielson Garden Park, **Park on Glade Road so the Nature Center parking lot can be kept open for the Center's pre-school activities and drop-offs.** We hike at a pace of approximately 2.5 mph while moving. Y**ou must be experienced with hikes of this length and elevation gain.** Dogs are welcome on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicyhttps://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolic](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) Leader: Steve Frith cell 703-629-0174 Park Entry Fee: $0.00 Map for hike: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/gabrielson-garden-goats-horse-steve-frith-4cc5400?u=i&sh=iypgzx

**SHORT RIDE - SMALL GROUP** **[NATIONAL PINK SHIRT DAY](https://www.daysoftheyear.com/days/pink-day/)** **+++++++++++++++++++++++++++** **Ride: Summary - Click Read more** **+++++++++++++++++++++++++++** RIDE NAME: The Koffee Klatch Ride: Paris Baguette Falls Church START LOC: Bluemont Park, Manchester & Wilson, Arlington, VA * START GPS: [[https://goo.gl/maps/2sMA3jhGSgdS4fJj9](https://goo.gl/maps/2sMA3jhGSgdS4fJj9)] * START PARKING: Tennis Courts Parking lot (restroom available) * ARRIVAL: 12:00pm * SPEECH: 12:10pm ***—> \*\*you must be present for the speech or no ride for you!\*\**** * ROLL: 12:15pm * LEVEL: Medium * PACE: 11-13 mph * DISTANCE: 10 mi * TERRAIN: Trail / Street / Cyclepath * RIDEWITHGPS ROUTE: **CBG_KOFFEEK_PARISBGFC_2026** [https://ridewithgps.com/routes/54023719](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/54023719) **Notes:** * This ride is organized "lean" * **The parking by the Bluemont tennis courts has not been closed yet so we still plan to meet there. I will check daily and update here if that changes** * Pump your tires on the morning of the ride, please. * It is strongly suggested that you become a NoVA CBG RidewithGPS club member and download the route posted for each "Klatch". * Loading the route onto your Garmin (or other Nav device) is also acceptable. * **NoVA CBG has a turn by turn RideWithGPS club account that's free. [https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/events/271742916/](https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/events/271742916/)** **+++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride: Detail** **+++++++++++++++++++** Welcome to The Koffee Klatch! These rides are generally based off the Arlington Loop where we will visit different area coffee shops or bakeries for a cup and/or treat if desired. You don't have to drink or even like coffee to participate. This will be a shorter than usual 10 mile ride mostly on trails, but some roads with Paris Baguette, at mile 5. After the rewarding stop we head through Falls Church to the W&OD at west St, then back to Bluemont. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride After The Ride:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** This week's Coffee Shop is the Ride WITHIN The Ride! **[PARIS BAGUETTE](https://parisbaguette.com/locations/va/falls-church/169-hillwood-ave)** **Tower Square Shopping Center** 169 Hillwood Av Falls Church, VA 22046 **+++++++++++++++++++++** **Ride Level Chart** **+++++++++++++++++++++** NoVA CBG tries to accommodate all levels of cyclists by offering different types/levels of rides. We just ask that you come to the ride that suits your current riding ability the best. * Introductory Level: If you haven't ridden a bike in a number of years (or are uncertain of your abilities on a bicycle). * Beginner Level: You can ride for 10+ miles at a pace of 10+ to 12+ mph with potentially minor hills involved. * Medium Level: You can ride for 20+ miles at a pace of 13+ to 15+ mph with potentially moderate hills involved. * Advanced Level: You can ride for 20++ miles at a pace of 15+ mph with potentially major hills involved. Both Medium and Advanced Levels might require handling various challenges such as reading cue sheets, using a Garmin or navigation app, night riding, out of town travel, or any other odd cycling situations. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Fine Print:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** An RSVP of 'YES' is your digital signature and means you have read and understood MEETUP.com's: * "Terms of Service : Section 6. Release" found at https://www.meetup.com/terms/ * NOVA-CBG's "Assumption of Risk Agreement" found @ https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/pages/1942951/NOVA-CBG_Waiver/ * NoVA CBG's "COVID Policy" found @ http://bit.ly/2021_NoVACBG_COVID19_POLICY Helmets are required to participate in all NOVA-CBG rides. All riders ride at their own risk and with the understanding that cycling is an inherently dangerous activity. When coming to the meetup you do so voluntarily and are ready and able to participate in the ride as described under the conditions of the day. Be on time for the "pre-ride" preparation. If you do not attend the pre-ride preparation you will not be allowed to participate on the ride. There are NO exceptions to the above.

Join us for a **scenic, social hike at Rock Creek Park** as we explore the "Southern Loop," starting from the Nature Center. Starting at the **Nature Center**, the "Southern Loop via Western Ridge Trail, Rock Creek, and Valley Trail" is a well-loved route. With over 2,700 glowing reviews on AllTrails, it offers beautiful scenery, well-maintained paths, and a refreshing escape close to the city. This **easy hike** winds through lush forested trails, showcasing the beauty of Rock Creek Park. While the trail is mostly straightforward, please note that sections may be **slippery**, so wear sturdy, grippy shoes. To learn more about the trail, click the link in the **Trail Map section below**. Get ready for fresh air, great conversations, and plenty of scenic moments! This hike is perfect for all levels, so bring your good vibes and let’s hit the trail together! **Meeting Time & Location:** Meet us at 9:30 AM at the **Rock Creek Park Nature Center,** located at 5200 Glover Rd NW, Washington, DC 20015. There’s plenty of parking available at the Nature Center. We’ll gather right in front of the building to start the hike. **Distance:** 5.6 miles **Elevation Gain:** 685 feet **Difficulty:** Moderate Walk/Hike This hike is a moderate walk with natural trails and a few gentle inclines to get your heart rate up. The terrain includes some uneven sections, and the fallen leaves can make it a bit slippery in spots. With sturdy footwear, it’s an enjoyable and accessible hike for most levels. **Estimated Duration** This hike is expected to take approximately 2.5 hours. **Pace:** Moderate Pace We'll walk 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** Ample parking is available at the Rock Creek Park Nature Center, with additional overflow parking located across the street. **Trail Map (AllTrails)** [Rock Creek Park - Southern Loop](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/rock-creek-park-nature-center-a2f0474?u=i&sh=ylk43q) With over 2,700 reviews on AllTrails, this popular route offers insights into the trail’s conditions and highlights. Click the link above to learn more and prepare for your hike! **Restrooms** Restrooms are available at the Nature Center, our meeting point at the start of the hike. They open at 9:00 AM. Additionally, there are restrooms approximately 1 hour into the hike, where we’ll take a brief break. **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** After the hike, join us for an optional lunch at **Pete’s New Haven Style Apizza** (4940 Wisconsin Ave. NW), an affordable, counter-service spot just a 10 minute drive away. They serve New England-style pizza, pastas, salads, antipasti, and local brews—something for everyone!

**PATC Map G / VA Bus** *$36. Long hike: up to 13½ mi., 1600 ft. ascent. Short hike: 8½ mi., 1200 ft. ascent.* Starting at historic Camp Roosevelt, site of the first Depression-era CCC camp, we’ll climb the Stephens Trail to its junction with the Massanutten Trail atop the jagged Massanutten ridge. There moderate hikers turn south and follow Massanutten Trail south to Kennedy Peak, a prominent summit with a popular lookout tower, and continue on the trail back to Camp Roosevelt. Long hikers turn north at the junction for a view-filled jaunt along the Massanutten ridgeline as far up to Habron Gap as they like and then backtrack before returning to the junction and following the moderate hikers to Kennedy Peak. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 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! 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: VIRGINIA 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 Vienna 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. * **[VIENNA METRO: NORTH parking lot](http://bit.ly/vienna-bus)**, last bus shelter (Nutley St. Exit off Interstate 66 on North/Vienna side of I-66) at approximately 8:25 a.m. Note: There is a "south" parking lot where there are also bus shelters. If by 8:15, you're not with a group of hikers who say they're Capital Hiking Club, you're likely at the south lot. There's a walkway over I-66 to the north lot. 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)**

We hiked this trail before and everyone loved it. **Lake Needwood–Gude–Blue Heron Loop in Rock Creek Regional Park**. • Distance: 3.6 miles • Difficulty: Easy, gentle elevation (337 ft) • Time: 1.5–2 hours at a relaxed pace • Scenery: Lake views, wetlands, lots of birds (herons, ducks, geese) • Perfect if you want something calm, scenic, and not exhausting • Wide, well-marked trails — good for conversation I recommend hiking boots because it can be muddy. Remember to bring your creature comforts (water, snacks, and tissues come to mind). If you're bringing your dog, let us know in the comments in case anyone is allergic. We'll meet at the parking lot near the boat house. Lunch at Chercher Ethiopian Cuisine at 1:30 (Must RSVP on that event to participate)

Let's hike the Little Bennet South Loop at the Little Bennet Regional Park near Clarksburg, MD. This is a MODERATE 5.5 miles trail with woods, stream crossings, rolling hills an abundance of wildlife. There is also an additional northern circuit with large fields and wetlands. Meeting point: Parking lot on Clarksburg Rd at: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/E42YzUkBEHS9ddjy5](https://maps.app.goo.gl/E42YzUkBEHS9ddjy5) (look for the Wilson Mill Parking Area and Trail sign) Please note: NO HIKE if rain. Optional: after hike lunch at a local restaurant!

Hike in the moonlight along the C&O Canal towpath to Great Falls, Maryland, 4 miles **Time**: Hike starts promptly at 8:15 p.m. and goes to approximately 10:15 p.m. (2 hours). It’s best to arrive about 10-15 minutes before the start of the hike (around 8:00 – 8:10 p.m). **Meeting Place**: Parking lot across from Old Angler's Inn, 10801 MacArthur Blvd., Potomac, MD. **Reservations**: Unlike CHC's Saturday bus hikes, signing up for Moonlight Hikes is not required. However, if you do sign up, you can be notified of a possible change in plan. Usually, light rain alone will not cancel the hike--for safety reasons, severe weather or a thunderstorm will. **Directions:** a. From the Beltway (I-495), take exit # 41, which is immediately north of the American Legion Bridge. When taking exit # 41, take it west towards Carderock / Great Falls, Maryland. b. This puts you on the Clara Barton Parkway, heading west. Stay on the Clara Barton Parkway for 1.7 miles until you come to a flashing stoplight. c. Make a left turn at the flashing stoplight onto MacArthur Blvd. Go for 1 mile until you see the Old Anglers Inn on your right side. Park in the parking lots across the street from the Old Anglers Inn. What to bring: a. A flashlight b. A small bottle of water c. Insect repellent d. Comfortable walking shoes (tennis shoes are fine) Cost / Donation: There is no charge for this hike, in accordance with CHC’s permit from the National Park Service. **Difficulty / Terrain**: This hike is mostly over flat terrain along the C&O Canal towpath and the Berma Road. This hike is considered to be an easy hike. **Ages**: This hike is open to all ages, so long as they can comfortably walk 4 miles. Parents need to be mindful of small children during the hike for their safety. **Dogs**: Dogs are welcome, so long as they are kept on a leash at all times, are friendly around people and other dogs, and are not taken out on the walkway to Olmstead Island.

Bus hike) Prince WIlliam Forest is a splendid example of the rolling hills and varied vegetation characteristic of the piedmont area east of the Appalchian Mountain chain. All hikers start near the Visitor Center. Moderate hikers make a loop following the Laurel trail, North Valley, Lake One Rd, Mary Bird Branch, Old Black Top Rd, Taylor Farm Rd, South Valley and Laurel trail. Long hikers follow a loop consisting of the following trails: North Valley, Burma Rd, Taylor Farm Rd, High Meadows, South Valley, and Laurel trail. Est.: 12.5 miles, 1000' elevation and 8.5 miles, 500' elevation. Map: Prince William Forest Park web site. Fare: $33. VA Hikes * **[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 am. * **[Vienna Metro: NORTH parking lot](http://bit.ly/vienna-bus)**, last bus shelter (Nutley St. Exit off Interstate 66 on North/Vienna side of I-66) at approximately 8:25 a.m. Park at 9486 Virginia Center Blvd, Vienna, VA 22181 * * Caution: The "south" parking lot also has bus shelters. If by 8:15, you're not with a group of Wanderbirds hikers, you may be in the south lot. There's a walkway that passes the fare gates over I-66 to the north lot. RESERVATIONS Wanderbirds Hiking Club is a 501(c)(7) non-profit, and the public is invited on all hiking trips. Reservations are accepted as late as Saturday, but reserving as early in the week as possible 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. 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)

Join us for a pleasant and relatively gentle hike on the Appalachian Trail in Virginia. The highlight of this hike is the David Lesser Shelter, which features a swing, large seating and picnic areas and other minor attractions. The trail has only a moderate amount of elevation. However, we consider this hike moderately challenging due to its length. We’ll move at a steady 2-3 mph pace with a break at the aforementioned Lesser Shelter, which is also our turn-around point. We'll take other quick breaks on the trail as needed. Please carry a minimum of 1 to 1.5L of water with you. After the hike we will go to nearby Harvest Gap Brewery. Meet time & location: We'll meet at 8:15 am at the East Falls Church (EFC) metro station to consolidate into as few cars as possible given the limited parking at the trailhead. The trailhead is about an hour from EFC. Route: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/west-virginia/appalachian-trail-keys-gap-to-david-lesser-memorial-shelter Brewery (also has food): https://harvestgap.com/ CARPOOLING: We encourage those with cars to be willing to carpool - you're the ones who make LMH great! If you're a driver that is willing to drive, please post a comment on the event page with the following information: (1) Number of seats (2) Meeting location (3) Meeting time As a rider, please comment on the driver's post to take a seat or post in the comments that you need a ride so a driver can find you. Riders are encouraged to help their driver out with the cost of gas. By signing up for this event, you acknowledge and agree that Late Morning Hikers, its volunteer organizers, and drivers who volunteer to carpool are not responsible or liable for accidents, injuries, damage, or losses that may occur while traveling to or from the hike. Late Morning Hikers does not condone or encourage impaired driving. Drivers are expected to follow applicable laws and make responsible transportation choices. We look forward to hiking with you! BACKGROUND INFO ABOUT LMH: Please remember that this group is an informal group of friends and volunteers initiating trips under the common adventurer model ([http://www.ronwatters.com/CADefine.htm](http://www.ronwatters.com/CADefine.html)). We do expect our members to be familiar with the best practices of hiking. This is not a group for first time hikers and is NOT a group for those seeking hiking instruction. We are also not professionals, nor are we trained hike leaders, nor do we scout out hikes. We plan hikes for fun. You are responsible for your own welfare and safety at all LMH events. Be sure to choose to attend hikes only within your own physical abilities and and hiking knowledge; take maps, suitable clothing, provisions (at least two liters of water plus any food or medical supplies you might require) and equipment, and act responsibly and safely at all times. Act responsibly and safely: if you ever believe you may be lost, follow the advice of the US Forest Service ([https://www.fs.fed.us/visit/know-before-you-go/if-you-get-lost](https://www.fs.fed.us/visit/know-before-you-go/if-you-get-lost)) LMH organizers and members shall not be liable for any injuries, loss or damage to persons or property, direct or consequential, arising out of any aspect of LMH activities. By attending this event, you represent that you have read, understand, and agree to the contents of our waiver of liability in the following link ([https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pQ0dedcqlyjc_Aib3TEbTX4gQRQt4C7FeCmsAPyTxd4/edit?tab=t.0](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pQ0dedcqlyjc_Aib3TEbTX4gQRQt4C7FeCmsAPyTxd4/edit?tab=t.0))

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

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 meet at the Nature Center for an approximate 4-mile hike, followed by an optional lunch at Nomad or Liberty Tavern (both are on Polaris Parkway) - we can decide which tavern during the hike!

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