Weekday Hikes

We will hike at Sky Meadows State Park, 5.2 miles with an elevation gain of 1000’. The pace for this hike is suitable for beginners and families, at 1.4-1.9 mph, with slower options available as needed. The hike is referred to as a lollipop. We will meet at the Visitor Center parking lot and hike to the Boston Mill Road Trail. We will take the North Ridge Trail to the Appalachian Trail and then the Ambassador White House Trail. We will return on the North Ridge Trail and Boston Mill Road Trail. **DIRECTIONS AND PARKING:** Physical Address: 11012 Edmonds Ln., Delaplane, VA 20144 The park is less than two miles south of Paris, VA via U.S. Route 50 to Route 17 South, or seven miles north of I-66, Exit 23 on Route 17 North. The park’s main entrance is on Rt. 710/Edmonds Lane. Park in the lot at the visitor center. Sue's vehicle is a white Toyota Corolla. **RESTROOM**: Onsite at the visitor center. **THINGS TO BRING:** You will need a Virginia State Park Pass or pay a $10 fee to access the park. Dress in layers and be prepared for cold weather. Bring water, snacks, a first aid kit, hiking poles, and pack extra socks. Hiking Guides: [https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/patc-mentoring-hike-sky-meadows-d06f64a](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/patc-mentoring-hike-sky-meadows-d06f64a) [https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/document/data/trail-guide-skymeadows.pdf](https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/document/data/trail-guide-skymeadows.pdf) **Notes:** * Participants are required to sign a PATC HIKE SIGNUP SHEET AND LIABILITY form. * RSVP to register for this hike. If your plans change, update your RSVP. * 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). Please check the night before for any updates. A hike will be cancelled due to weather conditions and Virginia Department of Transportation travel alerts. Attendance will be limited at the discretion of our hike leaders. Preference will be given to PATC members. PATC rules do not permit children under the age of 18 to participate in a hike without a parent or guardian present. Please leave your canine companions at home. Thanks!

**PATC Map 7 / Trailhead hike – NO BUS** *$5. Long hike 12 mi., 1700 ft. ascent. Moderate hike, 8 mi., 1000 ft. ascent* The hike features one of the most scenic views of Harpers Ferry and its environs. We start at Keys Gap on Rt. 7 and hike north on the Appalachian Trail along the Blue Ridge crest to Loudoun Heights. From this point long hikers will take the Loudoun Heights Trail down to Split Rock, with its iconic view of Harpers Ferry, and the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, and return. All hikers will use the AT to return from Loudoun Heights to Keys Gap. *** 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. 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. 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)**

Let's hike the Billy Goat A Trail along the Potomac River. If you have never been on this hike, it is both challenging and rewarding. It is one of my favorite hikes in the local area. Optional: Fish Taco Restaurant after the hike. DIRECTIONS: Directions from Baltimore: I95 South to I495 (Silver Spring). Go around the beltway to Exit 41 West (R @ Clara Barton Pkwy); Left at MacArthur Blvd (@T); Park on the lot across from Angler's Inn or by the roadside. DO NOT PARK IN OLD ANGLERS INN LOT, you will most probably get towed. (The address below is for Old Anglers Inn (across the street-again do not park at Anglers). Parking can be a problem. So you can ride past the Angler Inn and make your first right at Stable Lane. Plenty of parking on the side of the street. You will see me parking there. Next street on Right Hand side is Whiterim Drive. Both streets are less than a 5 minute walk to the meetup site. I will do my best to to clarify the hike difficulty. If you are an experienced hiker this may be considered a moderate hike. If you are a novice/beginner hiker this will be considered difficult due to the rock scrambling. So do not make this your first or second hike. \*\*You MUST be able to hike a difficult rock scramble. If you are not able to, please DO NOT sign up for this hike. \*\* We will meet at the parking lot across from the Old Anglers Inn. From there we will hike to one of the overlooks (which is amazing) and see the waterfalls of the Potomac River, then on to Billy Goat A. The hike to the overlook trails is easy-to-moderate, but Billy Goat A is rated DIFFICULT due to the rock scramble. Upper body strength is also required to navigate the rocks. According to the National Park Service, Billy Goat Trail A is by far the most technical and difficult section of the Billy Goat Trails with spectacular views of the Potomac River. PETS: NO PETS/DOGS ALLOWED BRING: Water (2+ liters), and food/snacks. If you don't bring water and snacks you will not be able to join us on the hike. We will stop for approx 20 minutes a little more than half way through at an area with amazing views to rest and eat lunch or snacks you bring. WEAR: It is important to wear HIKING BOOTS for this hike. Sneakers will NOT suffice. Rest Room Facilities: There are facilities at the beginning and at the end of the hike. There are none along the trail once we start. \*\*\* IMPORTANT \*\*\* BY ATTENDING THIS EVENT, YOU AGREE TO THE LIABILITY WAIVER, INDEMNIFICATION, ASSUMPTION OF RISK, AND OTHER TERMS AND CONDITIONS ([https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Z39AGebAVz9c-3S4zf3tj4Eb7V9k3PrH/view](http://clicks.meetup.com/ls/click?upn=XbaZ37larFA-2FuV5MohrYpeeFH8SaLELkoIStEoknzd-2F8ocdenjTgD5soQhFNgggmWva8A0tCKWxpUrYSXDJc0HNd3pwGBIu3iGY9781cqXs-3DZUsn_5HU9VSXfINaig1mgAliT7bZcdaYCO12jq19ifkqRO4A7DIJJeSb9-2FKLm8lq-2FRjh939SQJ6NlTY2LgvZXRtfRmp3bfjWqhqu0wT-2FWGIkWy5kyowTf3bpWRj-2F5RRt9qsSXC30BH72Vr1y7fRmJ246DD2MbtGj5eycR7k9msYih5bIP9tvP4wVPX-2FKqsgDtCSZQw2o3F3EpF-2BrYKH-2B3dvAhB-2FmIjsdgs-2BCznNJU7Xyd-2FKafw2ja-2BmCN189XAKtKWF04SY5jet-2BNMUn96TFLFt05k9QPugr7ytnehT-2FnD8KmYEnXoSBhyENsOEUes8cfIokgK0FHF0xlvA6b5FTSDkHljzLUgsr-2BwupNXl7Pz7fanHe-2FuECvRRrbzeUBPZNRfe2oH344ki9cKKyiKtnu2sRpiLPxgT4wRwy20mb3dGNP98GzdzVvHealc7rOF0W6j0waj7kZ1XUsdwP3ekwktMwSg-2BHZiyYG3nMeWBNppzAdNC4-2FNvMrgX7EgCUDGndOLJuzhmT8zriWoSvOMIi2VzgqtpiFEFmTBmjhNpH8Y22bNbrrFw7nfqQR3Do-2Butg5pE7SbLdH-2F5OJqIAtZvZD7IeOCeO7ZE7f-2B3-2FhFVvjXswZUl4zCVZ0PVtxCAUkYaVlttq32hw7DQL3vHyxOOntsQYsxQ-3D-3D)) (revision 12/1/22). PLEASE READ THIS AGREEMENT CAREFULLY BEFORE RSVP'ING. ---

This hike is perfect for those who want to experience the joy and wonder of the Cherry Blossom season beyond the Tidal Basin by strolling through DC's hidden treasure, the National Arboretum, where the blossoms are already bursting out and are nearly at their peak. As we embark on this journey, we will first take a leisurely stroll through the National Grove of State Trees, where you'll see a stunning collection of trees representing each state in the United States. As we continue, we will pass through the Fern Valley Native Plant Collection, where we will immerse ourselves in the lush greenery and spot some of the unique fern species found in this area. The highlight of this trip, of course, are the Cherry Blossoms, spread out across 450 acres. Our itinerary will take us through the most breathtaking scenery of the Arboretum. When the cherry trees are in full bloom, they create a sea of pink and white petals. We will be surrounded by the delicate fragrance of the Cherry Blossoms as we hike through this magical if ephemeral wonderland. At the end of our hike, we will reach the iconic National Capitol Columns. These majestic columns, which once supported the East Portico of the U.S. Capitol, provide a picturesque spot for a rest and some stunning photo opportunities. This hike is perfect for nature enthusiasts and anyone who wants to take in the breathtaking beauty of the Cherry Blossom season. Come and explore the US National Arboretum and experience the magic of nature! Total length of this easy stroll is about 6 miles, most of it on paved roads and pathways. Bring plenty of beverages, lunch, bug spray, comfortable walking shoes, and the $5 Adventuring trip fee. Restrooms are available along the way. Since the Arboretum is not Metro-accessible, we'll carpool at 10 a.m. that Saturday morning from the Rhode Island Avenue Metro Station. Those not participating in the carpool must use the Arboretum's New York Avenue entrance immediately east of Bladensburg Road. Park in either the large lot right at that entrance and walk to the Visitor Center, or continue driving to the smaller lot by the 24th & R Street NE gate; please note this gate is available only for cars exiting the grounds. Anyone taking a taxi/Uber/Lyft should ask to be dropped off at this gate, which is completely open to pedestrians. No matter how you get there, we will all rendezvous at 10:30 a.m. in front of the Visitor Center near the R Street gate. **Dogs: Allowed** **Fees: The Adventuring Trip Fee will be $5.** **What to Bring: Sturdy shoes, bagged lunch, and at least 2 liters of water.** **Park Information:** [National Arboretum](https://www.usna.usda.gov/) **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

**What to Expect** 🌸 Fields of Virginia bluebells 🌿 Beautiful riverside forest trails 🌊 Great Falls scenic overlooks 🦅 Possible wildlife sightings along the Potomac Some sections of the trail can be rocky or muddy, so sturdy hiking shoes are recommended. *** **Hike Details** 📅 Date: Saturday, March 28, 2026 ⏰ **Meet Time: 10:30 AM** 🥾 Distance: \~8–9 miles ⛰ Difficulty: Moderate ⏱ Pace: Moderate (about 2.5–3 mph with a few scenic stops) 🕒 Estimated time: 4-5 hours with lunch break and photo opportunities *** **Meeting Location** Riverbend Park Visitor Center Parking Area 8700 Potomac Hills St Great Falls, VA, 22066 You can reach me at 804-920-6340 - Debdeb *** Spring in Northern Virginia means one magical thing — **Virginia bluebells covering the forest floor in waves of purple and pink.** Join us for a scenic hike along the Potomac River as we search for some of the most beautiful wildflower displays in the region. We’ll start at **Riverbend Park** and follow the **Potomac Heritage Trail**, a stunning trail that winds along river cliffs and through floodplain forests where bluebells love to grow. In the right spots, the ground becomes a **carpet of wildflowers** stretching through the woods — it’s one of the most photographed spring scenes in the area. Along the way we’ll hike toward **Great Falls Park**, where we’ll stop at the dramatic overlooks to watch the Potomac River thunder through **Mather Gorge**. The views of the cascading falls and rapids are some of the best in Northern Virginia and make a perfect scenic break before heading back. This hike combines **wildflowers, river views, forest trails, and waterfalls** into one unforgettable spring adventure. *** **What to Bring** • Water (1–2 liters) • Snacks or trail food • Hiking shoes/boots • Camera or phone for wildflower photos *** Riverbend Park typically charges a **small entrance fee on weekends (around $10 per vehicle)**. If you love **spring wildflowers, scenic river trails, and great company**, this is a hike you won’t want to miss. The bluebells only bloom for a short time each year, so let’s get out and enjoy them while they last! Alltrails map https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/great-falls-park-to-riverbend-park-loop?u=i&sh=znhicy ***

(Trailhead hike) The Meadowood Special Recreation Management Area (SRMA) contains 800 acres of forest and meadows, which provide a landscape mosaic of various terrains and vegetation types. These include gently sloping open meadows, mature hardwood forests along steep slopes and floodplains, riparian areas, and freshwater ponds and streams. From the Belmont Blvd. trailhead, all hikers will do a loop that includes the South Branch Loop, the Turkey Meadow Loop, Wood Thrush Loop, and various portions of the Potomac Heritage Trail. Long hikers will also do the Mustang and Thompson Creek loops. \- Fee: $5\. \- Est: 11 miles\, 1000' and \~7\.5 miles plus optional add\-on of \~2 miles\, 700'\. \- Time: 9:30 AM \- Trailhead: 10324 Belmont Boulevard\, Lorton\, VA 22079 [https://www.google.com/maps/place/10324+Belmont+Blvd,+Lorton,+VA+22079/@38.6762253,-77.2109801,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x89b654c7a2da0365:0xb327e9e8c6578a0a!8m2!3d38.6762253!4d-77.2083998?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDMwMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D](https://www.google.com/maps/place/10324+Belmont+Blvd,+Lorton,+VA+22079/@38.6762253,-77.2109801,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x89b654c7a2da0365:0xb327e9e8c6578a0a!8m2!3d38.6762253!4d-77.2083998?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDMwMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) 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 spring urban hike - a brisk-paced (2.5-3 mph) 5.3-mile loop, beginning and ending at Pitango (1841 Columbia Rd NW) in Adams Morgan. We'll walk through Adams Morgan, Woodley Park, the National Cathedral grounds and Tregaron Conservancy. We'll be on a mixture of trails (1/3) and sidewalks (2/3). We'll have a restroom break halfway through the hike. Bring plenty of water and some snacks, and be sure to wear sturdy, comfortable footwear. Brunch in ADMO after the hike is an option. **DISTANCE:** 5.3 miles **ELEVATION GAIN:** 800 feet - there will be hills! **PACE:** Our average moving pace will be between 2.5 and 3 miles per hour. **DOGS:** Dogs on a leash are welcome. Pitango is halfway between Dupont Circle (North/Q street exit) and Woodley Park (.7 miles). Bus routes C51 C53, D70, D72, D74 are all within a few blocks. There free street parking in the surrounding neighborhood (meters are free on Sundays). But please arrive early so you have enough time to find parking or allow for metro delays.

**NEW DATE!** Hike leaders, this event is for you! In appreciation of our hard-working volunteers, we're hosting a special outing to thank them for contributing their time to make the Capital Hiking Club a success. If you led a trip in the last calendar year, the CHC board members would like to invite you to join us at Swingers Crazy Golf in Dupont Circle. What you'll enjoy: * Tasty food and drinks. * A round of mini-golf * And a chance to test your skills with some carnival games! \*\***This event is invite-only for CHC hike leaders**--please add yourself to the waitlist, and we'll move you into the event. Interested in learning how you can be a hike leader? Reach out to us--we'll be happy to get you started!

Below is the alltrails link to the hike: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/maryland/capital-crescent-trail We will only be doing 3 miles overall in this hike, out and back. Parking and Metro Access: Park in the garage near 7150 Woodmont Ave, Bethesda, MD 20815. Or park on the streets----- street-parking is free on Sundays. For metro: just get down at Bethesda metro station. We will meet at the trailhead next to the Ourisman Honda, check out the photo section of this event for a visual of the location. Bring plenty of water, whatever you need for your hike, and your awesome authentic self. Keep it easygoing. RELEASE OF LIABILITY & ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT: By being a member of this Group, RSVPing to any Activity, or participating in any Activity, You accept and agree to the terms and conditions described below: 1. You acknowledge that hiking in nature carries the risk of potential harm to yourself, including the risk of injuries such as broken bones or muscle/tendon injuries, illness, disability, or death. 2. You agree that You will at all times be responsible for Yourself and Your own safety. 3. You release and hold harmless with respect to all injury, disability, death, or loss of property, whether caused by negligence or otherwise, this group's leadership and members for the hikes that you participate in. 4. You acknowledge and agree that this Group is merely a collection of friends or potential friends who enjoy doing activities, and that in no event does any Organizer or Other Member assume any responsibility or liability for You. 5\. You agree not to sue and to release\, discharge\, waive and hold harmless all organizers and other members from and against all liabilities\, claims\, demands\, losses\, damages\, suits and proceedings\, for negligence\, carelessness or any other cause which you may have or that hereafter may accrue arising\, resulting from or related to your membership in this group or participation in any activity\.

Spend your Sunday morning with us on a scenic hike along the C&O Canal Towpath. This is the perfect opportunity to **meet new friends**, reconnect with familiar faces, and enjoy the beauty of Great Falls from the Maryland side. We'll walk along the towpath, chat along the way, and take a well-deserved break at the **Great Falls Overlook** to soak in the stunning waterfall views. Whether you're here for the hike, the conversation, or both, this adventure is all about enjoying the journey together! This is an **easy and beginner-friendly hike** which is generally flat with a few gentle inclines and a manageable 180 feet of elevation gain. The towpath is well-maintained and ideal for all fitness levels, making it a great choice for those looking to ease into hiking or simply enjoy a relaxed outdoor experience. To learn more about the trail, click the link in the **Trail Map section below**. **Meeting Time & Location:** Join us at **9:30 AM at the Carderock Cliffs North Parking Lot**. We'll meet at the trailhead, located midway down the parking lot on the right side (as you enter). **Distance:** 7 miles **Elevation Gain:** 131 feet **Difficulty:** Easy This hike is accessible for all skill levels, taking place on the towpath and Berma road, which both feature mostly flat ground and wide paths. **Estimated Duration** This hike is expected to take approximately 3 hours. **Pace:** Moderate Pace We’ll maintain a steady, comfortable pace with regular but brief breaks for a balanced mix of exercise and enjoyment. **Parking** Free parking is available at the **Carderock Cliffs North Parking Lot**, which is also our meeting point. **Trail Maps (AllTrails)** [Take a Hike! @ Great Falls Overlook (Maryland, towpath)](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-january-23-2025-7e6b20d?u=i&sh=ylk43q) **Restrooms** Restrooms are not available on this hike. **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** Following the hike, we’ll head over to TBD for a casual lunch. It’s the perfect opportunity to continue conversations, spark new ones, and unwind with your fellow hikers. Whether you’re new to the group or a regular, we’d love for you to join us - and for many, this might just be the best part of the hike!

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.

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.

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.

Join us for a flat 2.6 mile hike along the Alum Creek Trail from the rear parking lot of the Easton Hilton Garden Inn to the Strawberry Farms Park and back. This scenic trail along Alum Creek is a gem. Come and hike it with us!