Weekend Hikes

Join your fellow Late Morning Hikers to celebrate (an early) start to summer! We'll meet at Alexandria Bier Garden to catch up, meet new friends, and compare notes on Summer hiking. We'll post a comment on this page with our whereabouts on the day of the event.

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 enjoyable \~ 7.3 mile hike with \~780 feet of elevation gain. We'll start by hiking through a full growth hardwood forest of Elm, Ash Trees, and Tulip Poplars, the tallest deciduous tree in North America. We'll then connect to the Potomac Heritage Trail with its wildflowers and massive Sycamore trees. The hike is a loop. Part of the hike will be along the Patowmack Channel created by a series of islands in the river.We'll take our break on a sandy beach. Thanks to Bob G for the photo. We hike at a pace of 2.3 to 2.5 mph while moving. *You must have experience with hikes of this length and elevation gain.* Dogs are permitted 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.gaiagps.com/map/?loc=15.0/-77.3190/39.0474&pubLink=obOQ48o079O4P48KYoJBIMa9&trackId=b81b5829-efdf-4bad-bb66-9e9de4a74efd

**Middle Rock Creek, a 6.0 or 8.5 Mile Moderate Hike** SEE IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON REGISTRATION UNDER "NOTES." In the heart of Washington, DC, Rock Creek Park stands as an oasis amidst the bustle of city life. Stretching over 1,700 acres, this park offers a sanctuary for nature lovers, hikers, cyclists, birdwatchers, and anyone seeking respite and renewal. This hike travels through the heart of the Park, and features some of the more under-hiked trails. It starts from the Rock Creek Park Nature Center and heads north for one loop, then south to a second for a total of 6 miles, ending at the trailhead. We will stop there for a quick lunch or snack. For those who want a little more, we head back north for a different loop of 2.5 miles. We will complete the 6 mile hike around 12:30. The 8.5 mile hike will end around 2:00 PM. **Time to Meet**: Please meet at 9:15 for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 9:30 **Directions to Trailhead:** We meet at the Rock Creek Nature Center and Planetarium, 5200 Glover Rd NW, Washington, DC 20015. The GPS coordinates are 38.96062, -77.05157 **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: 6.0 or 8.5 miles (your choice) Elevation Gain: Approximately 845 ft (6 miles), or 1,125 ft (8.2 miles) Pace: 2.0 to 2.5 miles per hour Facilities: Toilets can be found near 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/c4025fdf0177c872b7fc2e0d09e7c523995ef49e21145e2d2438fe08649ca9e8). **Notes:** -PLEASE RSVP IF YOU PLAN TO ATTEND THIS HIKE. SHOULD YOUR PLANS CHANGE, KINDLY UPDATE YOUR RSVP BY NOON THE DAY PRIOR TO ALLOW SUFFICIENT TIME TO FILL YOUR SPOT. IF YOU ARE ON THE WAITLIST, IT IS IMPORTANT TO SIGN OUT AS SOON AS YOU KNOW YOU WILL NOT ATTEND BECAUSE MEETUP MOVES PEOPLE AUTOMATICALLY TO THE GOING LIST ONCE A SPOT OPENS. SIGNING OUT AFTER 6:00 PM WILL BE CONSIDERED A "NO SHOW," AND REPEATED INSTANCES MAY RESULT IN BEING BARRED FROM PARTICIPATING IN FUTURE HIKES LED BY THIS ORGANIZER. -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).

Join us for MORE Women's MTB Ride at the Cabin John Trails in Potomac, MD. Beginner-level riders are welcome and encouraged to join in the fun! A mountain bike in good condition and helmet are required. **Sign up at Golden Volunteer here:** [https://x.gldn.io/e/jgkrtQUn21b](https://x.gldn.io/e/jgkrtQUn21b) ***Please do not sign up on Meetup! If you do, you won't be alerted if the ride is cancelled!*** **Meet** at 6:00 PM with wheels down at 6:10 PM. We will not ride if the trails are wet or muddy. Check your email from Golden Volunteer in case the ride is cancelled due to weather/trail conditions. **Description** \- The event is open for women age 18\+\. You must sign a waiver on the Golden Volunteer link\, wear a helmet\, and be able to comfortably ride your mountain bike\. We expect to ride about 4\-5 miles on single track natural surface trails\. Bring your mountain bike\, helmet\, and drinking water\. This ride is **not suitable for hybrid bikes**! As space is limited, please update your RSVP if you cannot attend. **And support your trails and join MORE! www.more-mtb.org** **Where** – Meet at the parking lot for the Cabin John Group Picnic Area at 7701 Tuckerman Lane, Potomac, MD. Follow Google Maps at: https://goo.gl/maps/aumXoQnD2qAp3iNp9

**Ready to experience something unique?** *Join us for a scenic hike around Burke Lake.* *Safe, fun, facilitated space to not only enjoy nature together, move but also have deeper real conversations based on ice-breakers provided to go beyond small talk and allow a chance for a real connection❤️* **❗[RSVP for the hike HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1990143226965?aff=oddtdtcreator)** **READ ALL DETAILS BELOW ⬇️⬇️⬇️ SEE PHOTO INSTRUCTIONS** Meet & Greet (social warmup) at 11:00 am Hike starts at 11:20 am sharp. Don't be late, plan accordingly! Especially, if you are unfamiliar with the area. **Put into GPS:** *Burke Lake Park Ice Cream Parlor* (don't use Meetup app GPS, it may take you to wrong location). **Parking**: Large parking lot in front of Ice Cream Parlor. **❗Donation to cover the cost of permits**: Please bring $5-$10 cash or Venmo @Irena-Polyakova (1469) or Zelle (571-315-1469). **❗Park Entry Fee $12 Cash for Non-residents of Fairfax County.** It is Free for Fairfax Country residents, have your license out ready to show proof at the checkpoint. There may not be anyone at the checkpoint to collect, just drive through. **❗MEETING POINT (SEE EVENT PHOTOS):** In front of Ice-cream Parlor. We wait till 11:20 am and then we start walking. **Trail entrance- SEE EVENT PHOTOS- (if you are late and need to catch up):** Enter the trail about 100 meters to the left if you are facing the Ice Cream parlor. Once on the trail, turn left, lake should be on your right. * All age groups * Hike is hosted by a [life & relationship coach](https://lovedandfulfilled.com/) and structured to encourage maximum of connections made. * Conversation icebreakers are provided to everyone to make starting a conversation easier & get out of the small talk. * This is a hike for singles. **Time:** 11:00 AM (Be on time) **Distance**: 4.7-mile loop, it will take about 1.45-2 hours, we will make a few stops. **Level**: Easy/relaxed pace. Shaded path under the trees. **What to bring**: Water. **Dogs are welcome! 🐶** [RSVP for hike HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1990143226965?aff=oddtdtcreator) \*Event is weather dependent and could be rescheduled/cancelled\* **When you sign up to this event you are agreeing to**: *I release, indemnify, and hold harmless, Irena Polyakova, and all participants of the event, from any and all claims, demands, losses, and liability arising out of or related to any loss, injury, disability, I may suffer, to person or property, to the fullest extent permitted by law.* *Photos will be taken through out the event, if you don't want to be in them, notify the host ahead of time.*

Caledon State Park is a 2,500-acre property in King George County that has been designated as a National Natural Landmark. The park includes 16 miles of hiking trails and is home to old growth forests and American bald eagles. Given the low mileage and modest elevation gain, this backpacking trip is a great choice for those who are new to the sport or who are trying to get back into it. We will meet on the sidewalk between the parking garage and the bus lane at the Franconia-Springfield Metro Station at 9:00 AM and carpool to the trailhead. Drive time is about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Please post a comment below if you are willing to drive. Carpooling saves the environment and makes friends. ## Trail Facts * **Difficulty Level:** Easy * **Length:** 13.5 Miles * **Duration:** 2 Days * **Elevation Gain:** 702 Feet * **Bear Canisters:** Not Required * **Permits:** Not required, although I ask that each person chips in $10 to help cover the cost of the camping reservation. You can give me cash or send me money via PayPal or Venmo. * **Dogs:** Allowed on leash at the park, but not at the post-trip meal location. * **Parking:** Franconia-Springfield Metro Station (Free garage parking is available if you aren't driving to the trailhead.) * **Trailhead Coordinates:** 38.33376579936516, -77.14297900500688 * **AllTrails Maps:** [Day 1, Part 1](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/caledon-state-park-nova-tb-sat-1-f2fb9d7?u=i&sh=kucj8c) / [Day 1, Part 2](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/caledon-state-park-nova-tb-sat-2-8f2f470?u=i&sh=kucj8c) / [Day 2](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/caledon-state-park-nova-tb-sun-b016935?u=i&sh=kucj8c) **Trail Details:** **Day 1, Part 1:** After arriving at the park we will put on our packs and hike about 7 miles with 456 feet of elevation gain. During this leg of our journey we will stop by a few overlooks of the Potomac River and, if we're lucky, we may see some bald eagles. This loop will take us back to the Visitor Center, where you'll have the opportunity to top off your water supplies and check out the exhibits while Juanatán checks in on behalf of the group. You should be prepared to carry enough water to last you until we get back to our cars on Sunday, as there is no potable water near our campsite. **Day 1, Part 2:** Once the group is ready we'll hike another 3.5 miles with 75 feet of elevation gain to our camping location near the Potomac River and Jones Pond. I have reserved six camping sites, with two tents allowed per site. We will set up camp, eat dinner, and relax around the fire as we wind down for the day. There will likely be a lot of free time, so consider bringing games or some other form of entertainment. **Day 2**: While during many backpacking trips it is helpful to start early the second day, on this trip we can take our time in the morning as we wake up, eat breakfast, and pack. I still anticipate that we'll be able to depart our camping spot by 10:00 a.m. and hike a slightly different route of 3 miles with 171 feet of elevation gain back to our cars. I plan to stop at Pancho Villa in Stafford on the way home -- the address is 155 Garrisonville Rd, Stafford, VA 22554. **Gear List** *Note: Be prepared for varying temperatures; layering is key.* **Essential Items**: * Tent * Sleeping pad​ * Sleeping bag suitable for expected temperatures​ * Backpack (appropriate for overnight backpacking)​ * Backpacking stove with fuel​ * Pot, cup, dish, and utensils​ * Dehydrated meals​ and snacks (for lunch and dinner on Saturday and for breakfast on Sunday) * Water bottles or hydration system (3-liter capacity)​ * Bag or canister for securely storing food and other scented items * Water filter or purification tablets​ * Headlamp with extra batteries​ * Rain gear * Dry bags or pack cover​ * Warm clothing layers (non-cotton) * Trowel and toiletries for Leave No Trace compliance **Optional Items**: * Personal first aid kit​ * Map and compass or GPS device * Power bank or external battery * Trekking poles​ * Camp shoes * Electrolyte supplements​ * Alcohol​ * Books, games, or other entertainment * Gaiters​ * Sunscreen, lip balm, insect repellent​​ **Saturday Itinerary:** 9:00 AM: Meet at the Franconia-Springfield Metro Station. 9:15 AM: Depart for the trailhead. 11:00 AM: Arrive and begin the hike. 3:00 PM: Come back to the Visitor Center, top off water supplies. 4:30 PM: Arrive at the campsite. *(Set up camp, explore the beach, eat dinner, etc. for the rest of the evening.)* **Sunday Itinerary:** 8:00 AM: Break camp, eat breakfast. 10:00 AM: Depart for the trailhead. 11:30 AM: Arrive at our cars, drive to the restaurant. 2:00 PM: Depart for the carpooling location. 2:30 PM: Arrive at the Franconia-Springfield Metro Station. *(Setting the end time to 3:00 PM to allow time for the unexpected.)* **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! **[Featured Image Source](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caledon_State_Park#/media/File:CaledonStatePark.png)**

Let's enjoy a hike on this next-to-last Sunday of spring in DC's Rock Creek Park! This one’s for car-free DC folks, those who want a short morning drive with easy parking, and anyone who wants to explore one of the region's great urban parks. This is a moderately challenging hike due to its length, though there is not much elevation gain. We’ll move at a steady 2–3 mph pace, with breaks as needed. Water and bathrooms are available at the start. Please bring 2 liters of water with you. **Start location and time:** We’ll meet at 9 am at Picnic Grove 24 across from Rock Creek Tennis Center [https://maps.app.goo.gl/wUMV6UqH7GKsDBbA8?g_st=ic](https://maps.app.goo.gl/wUMV6UqH7GKsDBbA8?g_st=ic) We'll gather at covered picnic table shown in the image below. I'll have a large blue hiking backpack. Note: We plan to start hiking promptly after our meeting time, but I'll allow a grace period of up to 10 minutes for late arrivals. Route: [https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-ba011fd](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-ba011fd) **Transportation Options:** Driving or rideshare (Lyft/Uber): Yes! the meeting point is easy to get to and parking is free and plentiful. Buses: Indeed! Several buses go past this location on 16th Street. You can pick them up from Silver Spring metro (red line) or various metro stations in downtown DC. Please allow a little extra time if taking the bus, given variability in arrival times. Bikeshares - Of course! There are stations close by. CARPOOLING: Although this is one of our rare public transportation-accessible hikes, we encourage those with cars driving in from outside DC 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. 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 (https://www.ronwatters.com/CADefine.htm). 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.usda.gov/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))

(Trailhead hike) Brookside Gardens is one of the hidden gems of the DC metro area. It is perhaps at its most colorful during the spring. Both hikes start at the Brookside Gardens Visitor Center and proceed through the Gardens to the Wheaton Park Nature Center. From there the moderate hikers take the Equestrian Loop Trail to the intersection of the Northwest Branch Trail. They will follow the west side of the Branch downstream to Route 29 (Colesville Rd.), turn left on the Road and then left onto the Rachel Carson Trail following the east bank of Northwest Branch upstream, joining the Wheaton Park Equestrian Trail and route back to the Brookside Nature Center. Long hikers follow the moderate route except at the Nature Center they take 3.5 miles of assorted wooded trails through Wheaton Park before joining the Northwest Branch Trail. Est.: 11 miles, <300' elevation and 8 miles, <300' elevation. Park map. Start Time: 9 AM Fare: $5 Note: Resulting in strictly enforced park 'no alcohol' rules, this year there will be an after hike picnic/pool party at co-leader Lars Larson's Silver Spring MD home 10 minutes drive from the Park. Complimentary hamburgers, veggie burgers, appropriate toppings, usual munchies, cola, and beer will be provided. What to bring? A bathing suit is recommended for a cool after hike dip. Also, there is plenty of room to park on nearby neighborhood streets. **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)

Alexandria's Sails on the Potomac festival will host the tall ships Gazela, Kalmar Nyckel, Providence, and Sultana as part of the Sail Virginia celebration of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. The festival will include activities, exhibits, music, educational programs, public art, and more! Let's meet at Jones Point Park, get a birds-eye view of the ships from the Wilson Bridge, and then hike up the waterfront to see them close up and enjoy the festival! Onboard tours of the ships start at noon, so you can visit one or more before individually returning to Jones Point Park. ❶ **What we'll do:** * From the old ship's rudder under Wilson Bridge we'll walk west along the Mount Vernon Trail to S. Washington St, walk north to cross over I-495, and then east on Wilson Bridge to an observation point that affords a birds-eye view of the tall ships at anchor on the Alexandria waterfront. * Returning west off the bridge, we'll continue north along S Washington St, east along Jefferson St, and then upstream along the Potomac shoreline to King Street Park in time for the kickoff ceremony at noon, featuring George Mason University's Patriots Fife and Drum Corps. * Attendees are then free to check out the four ships and other activities as desired. Timed tickets for deck tours are no longer available, but attendees can still queue at any ships desired and board as space becomes available. * After checking out the sights, attendees can individually return to Jones Point Park along King and Lee streets. * The total distance is 4.6 miles, plus any additional distance walking around in the King Street Park area and touring the ships. Just the walk takes about 2 hours, but I've estimated you may want to spend maybe another hour spend checking out the ships. * Google map: [https://tinyurl.com/hjtbd6xs](https://tinyurl.com/hjtbd6xs) ❷ **How to get there:** The park entrance is at the south end of South Royal Street in Old Town Alexandria. From Highway 1 (either direction), take Franklin Street east to Royal Street, turn right and drive south 3 blocks until the street ends in front of Wilson Bridge. The park entrance is on your left. The street address is 1 Jones Point Drive, Alexandria, VA 22314. ❸ **What to bring:** Water and comfy shoes (flat, rubber-soled shoes are preferred aboard the boat). ❹ **Weather:** The forecast is partly cloudy and a high of 98F, with 6-7 mph W winds and a 3-5% chance of showers. Possible thunderstorms later in the afternoon. Updates: [https://tinyurl.com/yck2442z](https://tinyurl.com/yck2442z) **❺ Advisory:** As a reminder, this is an adult group, and you are ultimately responsible for your own safety and well-being during events. No one under 18 years of age is allowed at this event, either as members or as guests, to include babies in carriers and/or strollers. ❻ **Administrative stuff:** * There are restrooms at Jones Point Park, the Torpedo Factory, the Ramsay Visitor Center, and at several locations in the festival area. * Parking at Jones Point Park is free and there is room for around 100 cars. DO NOT park along S Royal St at the entrance to the park! You may be towed!! ❼ **Notes:** * Jones Point Park, Jones Point Dr, Alexandria, VA 23242. [http://tinyurl.com/pbyq733](http://tinyurl.com/pbyq733) * Sails on the Potomac: Alexandria Commemorates America’s 250th, [https://tinyurl.com/yp4nhsrf](https://tinyurl.com/yp4nhsrf) * Sails on the Potomac, [https://www.alexandriava.gov/Sails250](https://www.alexandriava.gov/Sails250) * Sails on the Potomac event schedule: [https://tinyurl.com/yc5d7pjs](https://tinyurl.com/yc5d7pjs)

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. **9 miles with 600 feet elevation gain.** **Fee Free Day!** ***Join us in celebrating Flag Day*** ***for a nice hike along the scenic Potomac River and adjoining forests of C&O Canal National Historical Park, Great Falls, Maryland.*** **Description:** We'll start our hike traveling to the Ford Mine Trail. Once completing that trail, we will then reconnect to the towpath and head to the Potomac Overlook on Olmsted Island for some great views of the falls and cascading water. After reconnecting on the towpath for a short distance, we will connect to the Gold Mine loop trail in the forest and Gold Mine Overlook and return to our cars. There are a couple of short hills while in the forest but they are small, otherwise the route is mostly level. There are a few small stream crossings on Ford Mine trail that are easily crossed. We may include the River Trail which runs along the shore of the Potomac, depending on the water level conditions. **Participants will have the option to do as much of the hike as they desire.** The pace will be about 2.5 mph. **Bring**: Adequate water/hydration, snacks/lunch, and sturdy hiking shoes since there are some rocky areas and tree roots in the forest. Restrooms are open near the Tavern visitor center. May want to also bring some insect repellent and sunscreen. **Meet:** We will meet on the sidewalk in front of the old refreshment snack bar on the right side of the parking lot before you get to the restrooms and Tavern visitor center. The snack bar is currently closed but it is under the tree canopy. Look for me by the fence anxiously awaiting your arrival. Please plan on being there at 8:45am so we can get everyone signed in and start the hike on time. **Dogs are welcome. Dog Policy** [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) ***Please note that dogs are not allowed on the Olmsted Island boardwalk, so if you bring your dog, you will have to wait for us at the entrance to Olmsted Island*** **Park Fee**: ***Park Fees waived on Flag Day.*** If you haven't hiked with me before, please provide your name, contact number and emergency contact number. You can text me the info of direct message me on Meetup. Do not pose in comments. Map of Hiking Trails at Great Falls, Maryland: [https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/upload/Great-Falls-Hiking-Map.pdf](https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/upload/Great-Falls-Hiking-Map.pdf) **Directions to Park:** [https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/greatfallstavernvisitorcenter.htm](https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/greatfallstavernvisitorcenter.htm) **GPS: 39.00223, -77.24697** Any questions, please message me on Meetup or text/call @202-528-0456. If you text me, please include your name.

**History** [Chestnut Ridge Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/chestnut-ridge/) is historically significant because it sits on a 300-million-year-old outcropping of Blackhand sandstone. Geographically recognized as the very first foothill of the Appalachian Mountains, the ridge rises 1,116 feet above sea level. Long before European settlement, the land served as a sacred site for ancient civilizations. The park contains the Old Maid's Orchard Mound, an eight-foot-tall burial mound constructed by the Adena culture between 1000 B.C. and 100 B.C. This ancient landmark has remained largely intact and is now protected on the National Register of Historic Places. The documented modern history of the land began with an official survey conducted by Ebenezer Buckingham in 1801. Original land deeds of sale from this period notably bear the signatures of United States Presidents Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. In the 1830s, Irish laborers arrived at the ridge to quarry its rich Blackhand sandstone. The blocks they hewed were used to build the crucial locks for the nearby Ohio and Erie Canal. Remnants of this early sandstone quarrying operation can still be spotted by sharp-eyed hikers along the modern trails. Agricultural transformation defined the ridge throughout the mid-to-late 19th century. Settlers discovered that the high elevation created a natural air flow that prevented late-season frost damage to crops. Extensive fruit orchards were planted across the slopes between 1860 and 1880. One notable orchard was established by John Wagner, a Spanish-American War veteran who chose the ridge specifically for its proximity to the bustling Columbus market. The park's current name pays homage to the massive American chestnut trees that once dominated the ridgeline before a devastating ecological blight wiped them out in the early 20th century. The conservation story of the modern 486-acre park began in March 1962. The Metro Parks board announced land acquisition plans to block developers from building a residential housing development called Chestnut Heights. Director-Secretary Walter A. Tucker advocated heavily for the purchase, citing the ridge's immense value as a scenic overlook for central Ohio. The district systematically purchased multiple agricultural parcels over the next two decades. After operating strictly as undeveloped farmland through the 1970s, Chestnut Ridge Metro Park officially opened to the public on December 18, 1988. In recent decades, the park has evolved from a quiet hiking spot into a premier regional destination for outdoor sports. A major turning point occurred in 2010 when the Central Ohio Mountain Biking Organization (COMBO) partnered with the park district to develop new infrastructure. Volunteers worked extensively to construct a single-track mountain bike trail, which officially opened in October 2011. An expert gravity and flow trail featuring advanced jumps was later integrated into the loop in 2016. Today, the park successfully balances its deep ancient, industrial, and agricultural history with active recreation. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Chestnut Ridge](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/CHR_map_1980px_2026.jpg). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Ridge, Meadows, and Homesite Trails, and Law's Lane, which is unmarked on some maps. None of these trails is individually very long, so we will hike a few permutations and loops until we get in 4-5 miles. The hike will be moderately strenuous. **Where We'll Meet** Drive to the rearmost picnic area at the back of the park. There's a latrine here, but there's no water fountain here or anywhere else at Chestnut Ridge. I strongly recommend you bring some water of your own, at least for after the hike. Cell service at the park is spotty, although your GPS will get you there just fine. The map pin I've provided here is exactly where we'll be meeting and should be able to be used directly in Google Maps, although Chestnut Ridge isn't big and you're unlikely to get lost here. **After the Hike** Afterward, we'll head over to [BrewDog DogTap](https://drink.brewdog.com/usa/brewdog-dogtap-columbus) for [drinks](https://usa.brewdog.com/pages/brewdog-lineup) and [food](https://usa.brewdog.com/cdn/shop/files/DogTap_Menu_2025_65e1ff8b-97d4-4f26-80f1-68321d482025.pdf?v=17356939232910340498). They also have an outdoor area that's extremely popular. I've had their burgers and their pizza, and I think they're both very good. I also really like their [Cold Beer](https://usa.brewdog.com/products/cold-beer-2024) (that's its actual name), which is their American light lager. BrewDog's actual address is [96 Gender Rd, Canal Winchester, OH 43110](https://www.google.com/maps/place/96+Gender+Rd,+Canal+Winchester,+OH+43110/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88387c06afa21a85:0x804c611d373d8c54?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and they have a large, free parking lot. We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.

Join us for a full three mile hike this Thursday (6/11) at 6:30 pm at Sharon Woods Metro Park. This scenic hike includes dirt trails (with hills) through the woods, grass trails through the meadows and paved trails along the pond. Please be able to hike at least at a moderate pace so that the group doesn’t have to wait for you often. We don’t want to lose you!

Hi Ladies , Let's Hike Blendon Woods Metro Park . We will meet at the nature center parking lot. Hiking about 4 miles completing the blendon woods loop and the sugarbush trail . Wear appropriate footwear and bring water for hydration .