Weekend Road Trips

See the spectacular Niagara Falls with Adventure-Us! This 4-day, 3-night road trip is going to be an absolute blast! ITINERARY * Thursday—Meet at Park & Ride, then drive to Niagara (approximately 7 hours). Road tripping with the gang! We’ll stop for lunch and plan on dinner in Niagara. * Friday—Niagara Falls including the Maid of the Mist, the famous boat tour that takes you right up to the falls! * Saturday—Buffalo, New York attractions, as yet to be determined * Sunday—Breakfast and drive home COST The price for a solo traveler is $500. If you are interested in sharing or would like to book one bedroom for a couple, please contact us so we can make those price adjustments. ACCOMMODATIONS We are renting a house with 7 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms. All the rooms have queen beds except one which has two twin beds. TRANSPORTATION Depending on the number of travelers, we will either be riding in a car or a rental van. We’ll meet at the Southwest Park & Ride in Catonsville (near CCBC) so people can leave their cars for the weekend. If you need alternative arrangements or plan to meet us there, please post in the comments. FOOD Since we will have access to a kitchen, you are welcome to bring food and snacks, but we are not planning to cook. Since we’ll be out and about, we plan to eat at restaurants or bring carryout back to the house. Meals are not included in the cost of the trip. ATTIRE Bring something that can get wet and/or a poncho for the Maid of the Mist tour. Bring at least two pairs of shoes since one will most certainly get wet. Otherwise, good walking shoes and comfortable clothes are all you need. We don’t plan to eat anywhere fancy.

I was not meaning to steal Austin's thunder on this trip (he's heading to Otter Creek in August), but I've also been wanting to check out this area and had been pondering a trip there for the last weekend in June. Come join me! (And full disclosure I haven't been here before so we can explore it together!) Also, just a note that since there's a 21-mile day, you should have already attended at least one DCUL trip before. We will meet at the Vienna metro at 5 pm Friday to carpool, then head for the [Lower Glady Dispersed Campground ](https://elkinsrandolphwv.com/place/lower-glady-dispersed-camping-area/)to spend Friday night and meet up with anyone driving separately. Saturday morning, we'll get an early start to beat the heat and head up the Mylius trail from the campground, gain the ridge and head clockwise around the Otter Creek wilderness area boundary. After reaching Otter Creek, we'll head south following the creek and camp along it. Sunday we'll get back up on the plateau and follow the boundary south back to the cars. Finally, we'll grab some food in Davis on the way home. I hear there are bogs, marshes and creek crossings, so prepare to get wet. Splits are 0/21/10. **Resources\*** * Monongahela NF Map: https://bit.ly/3FOs7wF * Purple Lizard Map: https://bit.ly/46EUwRB * CalTopo: https://caltopo.com/m/5BF0P * Weather: https://bit.ly/490kwbH * Driving Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/QAdy2nh8TYt5TB3M9 \*Credit for these goes to Mark/Brightside **Disclaimers** * Liability Waiver: *By RSVPing for this trip, you agree to these guidelines and to DCUL's waiver liability terms: https://dculbackpacking.com/about/liability-waiver/* * Dues: *Members and above, don't forget to pay your annual dues. You can check if you need to pay dues by seeing if the current year is listed next to your name in your DC UL profile. Applicants do not need to pay dues for their first trip. To pay your dues via PayPal, use this link: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/Jennifer Adach15 ($10 annual dues plus a $5 suggested donation to City Kids Wilderness Project.)* * Carpool: *As per our carpool policy, riders should pay drivers $0.10/mile.*

### America’s food & music festival is an only-in-DC moment The Giant National Capital BBQ Battle is an experience that could only take place in Washington, DC, where the country’s culinary traditions unfold against the backdrop of the U.S. Capitol and the National Mall. The festival embodies an “Only in DC” spirit as it offers visitors from around the world a chance to savor barbecue shaped by America’s diverse cultural roots in the nation's capital. ### BBQ teams from across the country will compete Top pitmasters and celebrity chefs from all over the U.S. fire up their smokers to battle for national bragging rights and more than $50,000 in cash and prizes. From Memphis ribs to Carolina pulled pork and everything in between, you can taste regional specialties from some of the best barbecue vendors in the business at the festival. There are many different things to do at this event, follow the link below for a full description. The exact location will be determined on the day of event. https://dc250.us/events/giant-national-capital-bbq-battle

**A Journey Through the Soul of the American Wilderness** Step aboard and let the rails carry you into the heart of America’s wild beauty. With Amtrak’s Grand National Parks journey, the landscapes tell a story — of ancient mountains, roaring geysers, and valleys carved by time. Your adventure begins in the legendary Yellowstone National Park, where the earth breathes through steaming geysers and colorful hot springs. Witness the powerful eruption of Old Faithful, stand in awe at the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and watch herds of bison and elk move across wide, golden valleys untouched by time. Next, journey westward to the granite cathedrals and misty waterfalls of Yosemite National Park. Beneath the towering heights of El Capitan and Half Dome, and among giant sequoias older than empires, you’ll walk through landscapes that have inspired generations of adventurers, poets, and dreamers. Finally, travel north aboard the famed Empire Builder to the wild, untouched splendor of Glacier National Park. Here, turquoise lakes, sweeping alpine meadows, and rugged peaks paint a portrait of nature’s raw, enduring beauty. Every trail, every mountain pass whispers of an ancient world still alive today. Throughout this unforgettable journey, the train is more than transportation — it’s a front-row seat to America’s greatest wonders. With comfortable accommodations, expert guides, and breathtaking views at every turn, this is not just a vacation — it’s a pilgrimage to the soul of the American wilderness. [Click Here for Full Details](https://www.suitcasegals.com/grand-national-parks-627-71225) \#\#\# Day 1\-Your Journey Begins in Chicago \(27 Jun\, 2026 \- 2 pm\) Head over to Union Station in Chicago to board the California Zephyr train heading West. Your journey to Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Glacier National Park has begun! (Overnight onboard Amtrak) \#\#\# Day 2\-Salt Lake City\, UT \(28 Jun\, 2026\) The train journey from Chicago encompasses both the Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains. From golden grain fields to craggy mountain peaks, the scenery is magnificent! Later in the evening, your train arrives to Salt Lake City and you'll check in to your hotel for the night. (Overnight in Salt Lake City) \#\#\# Day 3\-Yellowstone National Park \-\(Salt Lake Express 1\-Way Shuttle Transfer Salt Lake City to Jackson\, WY\) \(29 Jun\, 2025\) Beautiful Vibrant Geysers in Norris Basin Yellowstone after Sunset Awake this morning and continue on to Yellowstone. Along the way you will take in a very scenic ride so keep your camera handy! (Overnight in West Yellowstone) \#\#\# Day 4\-Yellowstone National Park \(30 Jun\, 2026\) America's first national park is yours to explore today! Your tour picks you up for a journey through Yellowstone. Along the way, your guide will provide some amazing insights into the park, its history, and of course, its abundant wildlife. Famous spots such as Old Faithful, Mammoth Hot Springs, Hayden Valley, and Yellowstone Lake are all part of the experience. There is no place on earth like Yellowstone National Park. (Overnight in West Yellowstone) \#\#\# Day 5\-Salt Lake Express 1\-Way Shuttle Transfer \- West Yellowstone to Salt Lake City \(1 Jul\, 2026\) \#\#\# Overnight Onboard Amtrak You are transported back to Salt Lake City today to board the train heading to San Francisco and Yosemite National Park. (Overnight onboard Amtrak) \#\#\# Day 6\-7 CA Salt Lake City Amtrak Station\, UT \(SLC\) to Emeryville\, CA \(EMY\) \(2 JUL\, 2025 11:40 PM\) \#\#\# Emeryville\, CA \(EMY\) to San Francisco\, CA \(SFC\) \(3 Jul\, 2026 \- Tonight, you will travel to San Francisco overnight \#\#\# Day 8\-San Francisco to Yosemite National Park \(4 JUL\, 2025\) After being picked up from your hotel, your tour will take you across the beautiful heartland of California to Yosemite National Park. The scenery here is breathtaking. From its wide-open meadows, bold mountains, and abundant forest, Yosemite is an endless parade of nature's beauty. In addition to your tour, you will have plenty of free time to wander a bit and take Yosemite at your own pace. Breathe in the clean fresh air as you take time to explore the park. After your day of exploring Yosemite, you will return in the evening to San Francisco. (Overnight in San Francisco) \#\#\# Day 9\-10 Sunday 5\-6 July 2026 \#\#\# On board train San Francisco\, CA \(SFC\) \- Seattle King Street Station\, WA \(SEA\) \#\#\# Rail Segments \(2\): San Francisco, CA (SFC) to Emeryville, CA (EMY) Emeryville, CA (EMY) to Seattle King Street Station, WA (SEA) \#\#\# Day 11: Tuesday 7 July 2026 Seattle King Street Station\, WA \(SEA\) \- East Glacier Park\, MT \(GPK\) Combine two great attractions. Visit both the Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass. Two attractions you don't want to miss. Space Needle - The tower’s 520’ saucer-shaped “top house” offers visitors Seattle’s only 360-degree indoor and outdoor panoramic views of downtown, Mount Rainier, Puget Sound, and the Cascades and Olympic mountain ranges. Experience two entirely new levels of thrills! From an all-glass floor on the lower level to floor-to-ceiling glass on the upper level, Seattle’s “must see” is now a “must do.” Chihuly Garden and Glass - Provides a look at the inspiration and influences that inform the career of artist Dale Chihuly. Take full advantage of all the Exhibition has to offer. The centerpiece of Chihuly Garden and Glass is the Glasshouse, it is the result of Chihuly’s lifelong appreciation for conservatories. \#\#\# Seattle King Street Station\, WA \(SEA\) \- East Glacier Park\, MT \(GPK\) ### \#\#\# Day 12\-Glacier National Park\, MT \(8 Jul\, 2025\) You will arrive this morning to Glacier National Park, one of the most beautiful spots in North America. After checking in to your hotel, the day is free to relax and enjoy the stunning scenery all around you. (Overnight in Glacier National Park) \#\#\# Day 13\- Glacier National Park \(9 Jul\, 2025\) Climb aboard the charming, historic vessel, Sinopah, the oldest wooden boat in our fleet. Relax and enjoy all this “secret” valley offers, take in the scenery while learning about the rich Blackfeet tribal history surrounding the Two Medicine area. Upon docking at the head of the lake you can choose to remain on the boat or disembark and begin a self-guided hike or hike with one of our guides to Twin Falls and catch a later return boat. \#\#\# Day 14\- Glacier National Park Tour \(10 Jul\, 2025\) This tour starts from the high plains and covers an incredible area that is home to over 1500 species of plants, as well as multitudes of North American free-roaming wildlife, some of which include elk, deer, moose, antelope, black bears, and grizzly bears. From there, you will enter Glacier National Park from its East entrance at the St. Mary Visitor Center, and continue up on Going-to-the-Sun-Road. Take advantage of numerous photo opportunities along the route that may include stops such as Rising Sun, Deadhorse Curve, Wild Goose Island, Sun rift Gorge, Grizzly Point, Jackson Glacier Overlook, Big Bend, the Weeping Wall, and Logan Pass. \#\#\# Day 15\-Overnight Onboard Amtrak After enjoying a final breakfast at Glacier Park Lodge, you will cross over to the train station and board the Empire Builder once more. The journey through the Rockies is a once in a lifetime passage through soaring mountain ridges and past countless examples of natural splendor. As the mountains change to foothills and then plains, you will be treated to a little bit of everything the American outdoors has to offer. (Overnight onboard Amtrak) **B** \#\#\# Day 16\-Your Journey Ends in Chicago

Start Location Greenbelt Metro Dr., Greenbelt, MD, 20770, US End Location Same as start location Start Sunday, June 28, 2026 | 10:00 AM End Sunday, June 28, 2026 | 2:00 PM Description Join us for another refreshing Sunday morning hike through one of the DC area's hidden gems, followed by an optional brunch at a local café. We'll explore the scenic trails of Greenbelt Park, a 1,100-acre forest managed by the National Park Service. Despite being only minutes from the city, the park feels surprisingly remote, with shady woodland paths, towering trees, gentle hills, and opportunities to spot birds and other wildlife. Our route will follow a combination of the park's loop trails, offering a pleasant mix of forest scenery and easy-to-moderate hiking. We'll maintain a social pace with time to enjoy nature and get to know fellow hikers. Distance: Approximately 5–6 miles Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Terrain: Natural dirt trails with some roots and gentle hills Please Bring: Water Comfortable hiking shoes Weather-appropriate clothing A positive attitude! Optional Brunch: After the hike, those interested are welcome to join us for brunch at New Deal Café in historic Greenbelt, a cozy community gathering spot known for its coffee, breakfast options, and relaxed atmosphere. Whether you're new to hiking or a regular trail enthusiast, come enjoy a morning of fresh air, conversation, and good food. Looking forward to hiking with you!

Join us for a fun and relaxing brunch at Carfagna’s! Come enjoy delicious Italian food, great conversation, and a chance to connect with other amazing women in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re new to the group or a familiar face, we’d love to see you there. Please RSVP early so we can plan seating. Looking forward to a great brunch together!