Winter Biking

We hike every Tuesday! Check our website for the full schedule and to RSVP: [https://sites.google.com/site/tuesdayvigoroushikers/hike-schedule](https://sites.google.com/site/tuesdayvigoroushikers/hike-schedule)

Come out and celebrate the Christmas Holiday Season at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens Regional Park in nearby Vienna, Virginia. Our two mile hike on asphalt and natural surface trails showcases flowers, shrubs, ponds, and a Korean Bell Garden that are decorated for the holidays. Bring a daypack, comfortable hiking shoes, cold weather clothing, trail snacks, and a quart of water. Price of admission: Adults under 60 $8 and over 60 $4. Although not connected directly to the Sierra Club PRO hike, Meadowlark Botanical Gardens offers the Winter Walk of Lights after dark. Reservations required at novaparks.com. Meet at 11AM at the Meadowlark Botanical Gardens Regional Park off of Beulah Road in Vienna, Virginia. Leader: Glenn Gillis 571-217-4477

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. Join me on this lovely 8.5 mile hike at Sugarloaf Mountain near Dickerson, Maryland with 1572 feet of elevation gain. We will meet in the parking lot at 8:45 am and start hiking at 9:00. This hike has plenty of ups and downs, with a long climb late-ish in the hike, and then a final climb to the summit before we return to our cars. The climb to the summit is quite steep and rocky. However, you can choose to skip this section and follow the well-marked White trail back to the parking lot. We will hike at a moderate pace of 2.5 miles per hour and stop at all intersections. Although there are no serious water crossings, there may be small streams to get across. We will enjoy a brief lunch or snack at White Rocks, about 4.5 miles into the hike. We will park at the East View Parking Lot, take the White Trail down the mountain, the Yellow Trail back up, connect to the Blue Trail to enjoy the White Rocks overlook, then go up and over the Purple Trail, back to Blue, back to White, up Red to the summit, then Orange back to the parking lot--not quite a full rainbow hike, but close! The weather is supposed to be in the 20s and low 30s on Tuesday, but with a high of 41 Sunday and 54 Monday, I don't think we'll have any ice on the trails. There are two porta potties available near the parking area, as well as one at the base of the mountain. There is a suggested donation of $5, and I encourage hikers to contribute. Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy. If you plan to bring a dog on this hike, please contact me about the dog’s prior hiking experience in winter conditions on rocky trails. Leader: Becky Reickel 301-471-3641 Carpools: Meet at the Centreville Park and Ride at 7:30 a.m. Suggested carpool fee is $4.00 per rider. The leader will not be at the carpool location and will meet the group at the trailhead. Anyone intending to carpool may want to post a message to the group to be sure someone else will be there. GPS coordinates for Centreville Park and Ride: 38.836080, -77.455327. https://goo.gl/maps/hc3LRG7Hsy2wMJs18 Trailhead: Meet at the Sugarloaf East View Parking lot at 8:45 am for our 9:00. start. GPS coordinates: 39.260338, -77.390338. https://goo.gl/maps/HyHoWHCFEJXrcDYB8 Park entry fee: Suggested Donation is $5 Rating: A Map for the hike: 01302025 Sugarloaf Color Hike on AllTrails https://api-v5.alltrails.com/explore/recording/activity-january-30-2025-5807a68-3?p=-1&sh=zg5qvz&utm_medium=map_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality

[https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45928389](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45928389) 20.3 miles. Join us for a short and pleasant e-bike ride in and around the center of Washington, DC, on New Year's Day. Note the starting time is 12:30 PM. NOTE: New starting point is Haines Point as the roads are blocked off for a 5K race. The total tour distance is some 20 miles but you can cut it short if needed. 94% of the ride is on paved bike paths and flat terrain. At the halfway point, we will provide snacks, hot tea, and cider. You can even bring your own picnic. Various monuments can be seen during this route (the Capitol, the municipal Fish Market, the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, the Nationals ballpark stadium, the Titanic memorial, and the new Frederick Douglas bridge). DISCLAIMER LIMITATION OF LIABILITY: TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMISSIBLE PURSUANT TO APPLICABLE LAW, NEITHER GREGORY MAASSEN, TRIP COORDINATORS, THEIR AFFILIATES, FAMILY AND FORMER AND CURRENT EMPLOYERS NOR ANY OTHER PARTY INVOLVED IN CREATING, PRODUCING, OR DELIVERING E-BIKE LOVERS GUIDES, OUR MEETUP EVENTS, AND THE GPS E-TRAILS IS LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, INDIRECT, EXEMPLARY, OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF A USER’S ACCESS TO, OR USE OF THE E-BIKE LOVERS GUIDES, OUR MEETUP EVENTS, AND THE GPS E-TRAILS. See for the full disclaimer: https://ebikelovers.com/disclaimer

Meet in the parking lot of the Handy Bikes Service Center. At the start of each ride, we'll go over introductions to have a sense of participants' cycling experience. Over the course of our rides, we'll address the following: group riding dynamics; safety (ABC check & trail hazards); gear shifting; hill climbing; audible and hand communication within the group, with other trail users, and automobile drivers; what to bring on each ride; etc... Bring your questions, water & a snack. When it starts getting dark earlier, we'll need lights as well. Helmets a MUST. If you can, and especially if you've had issues with your bike, come a bit early to have it looked at ahead of the ride. PS - all levels are welcome to join, however, be mindful that if you are an experienced rider, please be prepared to ride at the pace of the newest rider in the group. Each week, depending on who's in attendance, and participants' riding ability/comfort level, we may do skills practice as a group in the parking lot or at the west end of Wheeler Ave. Once everyone is comfortable, we'll go for a ride on local trails and neighborhood streets and finish back at the shop. Happy Pedaling !! \~Maya

Looking for a fun ride on Wednesday nights at a quick pace in Avalon/different parts of Patapsco? This is your ride! Are we the fastest people in the park? Nope. Are we the fast group ride? I'll still yes. Is this ride advanced pace over 17 miles in everything the park can throw at you? Yup. It's that. **Waiver:** Mountain biking is a risky sport, By signing up for this meetup you are agreeing to our MVD Mountain Bikers waiver located here: [Link to MVD Waiver](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xZnTHPXQGY5UggdumfoksN3uwdocnadK/view), as well as you will need to sign the standard MORE waiver prior to leaving on the ride, as we will be legally riding in the park at night and this is a requirement. ***Required MORE Waiver to be signed, please go to this link: [https://x.gldn.io/3IV3G966Lob](https://x.gldn.io/3IV3G966Lob)*** Where/Directions: Rockburn Elementary School, but may change so stay tuned. What time: Meet between 5:45 and 6:00 at parking lot. Wheels rolling by 6:00. We will not wait past 6:00. Pace: Pace will be advanced, approx. 8.5 to 9.5 mph. Appropriate for advanced riders, but not for beginners, or people who are not riding at least twice a week. Attitude is laid-back and friendly, but please ensure you can handle the pace and length of this ride before committing. This is a no-drop ride, i.e., we wait up for everyone at intersections. Please note Ptap rides tend to be about 1 mph slower than Rosy, or Fairland, due terrain. Terrain: Ranges from Easy to Difficult. Most trails are in great shape, but plan on some mud spots. There are a few very steep climbs, rocks and technical sections, log overs (up to 10" logs, and 3' stacks), tight single track (12" wide in spots), and a stream crossing or two. A strong/advanced rider will be able to clean most sections, others will need to get off of their bikes in spots. This is a friendly ride, so we will wait up for everyone, just be advised that the terrain can be somewhat difficult in places. This is a video edit I made of a ride this year. We won't hit all of this terrain, but gives you a feel for Patapsco: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nwi7H68iljI&t=664s](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nwi7H68iljI&t=664s) Distance: Ranges depending on time of year (around 12 miles mid winter/dark, to about 19 during mid summer / long days). Exact route will change depending on group dynamics, trail conditions, daylight, etc. I will typically have route planned in my head at the beginning of the ride, but will modify as needed to get us back at a reasonable time. Distance will grow/shrink with the daylight. Duration: I shoot to have us back around 8:30, so around 2 1/2 hours. This can change with mechanical issues, and group dynamics though. As this is a weekday ride, the stops will be just long enough for the last rider to catch their breath. Bring: Helmet (required), water (as much as you can carry), spare tube/patch kit, pump/CO2, multi-tool, I.D., emergency contact info where it can be easily located on your person, and a good attitude, as this ride is as much about camaraderie as it is about riding. Take a look at your bike and make sure it is in good working condition (Ptap will take its toll on the bike). Bring a light, as you will need it with the days starting off shorter, and the eventual start in the dark. There are ton of acceptable lights under $20 on Amazon right now. Just look for a T6 Cree LED Bike light, with minimially 1000 lumens. Weather: Shine Only (there will undoubtedly be some mud, but no ride if it’s raining or the trails are too muddy). Protect our trails and don’t ride them when they’re fragile. There may be days where I make a last minute call, so watch our MVD Mountainbikers meetup event, our Facebook group, as well as the Patapsco After Dark Facebook page, as I will cancel and cross post on all three. Ride Organizer(s): Craig P, 4four3-5zero9-zero8one1; skibum616 at yahoo dot com

Join VELO VELO Cycling Club Thursday Jan. 1st for our annual "New Year's Day Ride as we go into the new year doing what we love. This is a 26.2 mile route starting and ending in Bowie. All ride levels are welcome, but it is strongly recommended that you download the route. This is a "ride at your own pace ride and is **NOT** SAG supported. Post Ride Brunch?? Reward yourself after the ride with a plethora of food options like Jerry's seafood, Smokey Bones or the new "Hungry Bowl Mongolian Grill & sushi, (All you Can Eat). More food options are located right across the street at Bowie Town Center. Meeting at Bowie in the parking of Smokey Bones and Jerry's Seafood. Meet up time 10:30 am, on the pedals at 11:00a. Cue sheet: 26.2 miler: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/53565323 Please Read: Please maintain safety on the road and be respectful to and mindful of others. motorists the following simple set of guidelines are asked to be followed: * Do not pass the guide in the non Free Ride sections. * Yellow Line rule on two lane roads must be obeyed. (NEVER EVER to be crossed) * White Line rule when we have ample shoulder or an adequate bike must be obeyed. * Broken Line rule, we do not take up more than one lane except when safely transitioning for a left turn. * Slower riders in the Free Ride sections should move to the far right to allow faster riders to go by on the left. * 2x2 Paceline at all other times. No wheel overlapping of the rider in front. * The ride will NOT stop for flats. If you are with a friend that flats, we suggest that you stop and ride in with them. Be sure to know the route and how to short cut or get back and how to change a flat. * NO "in ear" or "over the ear" Headphones of any kind allowed. * Experienced cyclists are asked to help first timers with route info When you RSVP to participating in this or any VELO VELO Cycling Club ride or event you are acknowledging that you take sole and full responsibility for your own health and safety. Helmets are a must. No helmet-No participation. Please be sure to have all proper equipment and supplies to help ensure a safe and pleasant ride. Two spare inner tubes, CO2 cartridges, patch kit and pump. Front and rear lights Eye Protection Gloves Proper hydration Water bottles that fit your bottle cage ID and money Obey all traffic laws including stopping at red lights. PACE: A/B = Fast Touring 18-20+ mph AMS C =Easy Touring 15 to 17 mph AMS IF YOUR Average Moving Speed IS SLOWER THAN 14 MPH Please let a ride leader know before the start of the ride so we can do our best to assist you. AMS (Average Moving Speed) may vary depending on terrain, traffic, and the ability of riders.

**\*\*\* NOTE these lights appear to go on sale via Amazon frequently \*\*\*** Greetings CBG'ers, **Q:** How many Lumens should your light be to be able to SEE at night? **A:** It should be at least 100 Lumens. **Q:** Is there a brand that is good? **A:** NiteRider has been a solid brand for years, I've (Gary) owned them and they have never busted, but I've lost a few (ha ha). **Q:** Can you give me some examples of what would be good? **A:** Yup, see below but feel free to search Amazon for others as well. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ **NiteRider Swift 300 Front Cycling Light - USB Rechargeable:** Lumens: 300 Price: $26.98 (PRIME) [https://www.amazon.com/NiteRider-6786-Swift-300-Black/dp/B07DWH2YJC](https://www.amazon.com/NiteRider-6786-Swift-300-Black/dp/B07DWH2YJC) ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ **NiteRider Swift 500 Front Cycling Light - USB Rechargeable:** Lumens: 500 Price: $39.99 (PRIME) [https://www.amazon.com/NiteRider-6785-Swift-Size-Black/dp/B07DWJ5ZTN](https://www.amazon.com/NiteRider-6785-Swift-Size-Black/dp/B07DWJ5ZTN) ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ **NiteRider Swift 300 Front Bike Light Sabre 110 Rear Bike Light (Combo Pack) - USB Rechargeable** Lumens: 300 / 110 Price: $41.95 (PRIME) [https://www.amazon.com/NiteRider-Rechargeable-Headlight-Resistant-Flashlight/dp/B08F2X47SV](https://www.amazon.com/NiteRider-Rechargeable-Headlight-Resistant-Flashlight/dp/B08F2X47SV) ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ **NiteRider Swift 500 Front Cycling Light & Sabre 110 Rear Bike Light (Combo Pack) - USB Rechargeable** Lumens: 500 / 110 Price: $46.95 (PRIME) [https://www.amazon.com/NiteRider-Rechargeable-Headlight-Resistant-Flashlight/dp/B08F2VCZFS](https://www.amazon.com/NiteRider-Rechargeable-Headlight-Resistant-Flashlight/dp/B08F2VCZFS) ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ **NiteRider Sabre 110 Rear Bike Light:** Lumens: 110 List Price: $14.70 (see combo pack above) [https://www.amazon.com/NiteRider-Rechargeable-Taillight-Resistant-Commuting/dp/B08F12CWK3/](https://www.amazon.com/NiteRider-Rechargeable-Taillight-Resistant-Commuting/dp/B08F12CWK3/) ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

***FREE TOUR TICKET FOR ALL OF YOU WONDERFUL MEETUP MEMBERS*** Use Promo Code **MEETUP2025** to get your free ticket and route smart guide at [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sol-in-columbus-oh-a-smart-guided-short-one-way-loop-bikeway-tour-tickets-769120860197](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sol-in-columbus-oh-a-smart-guided-short-one-way-loop-bikeway-tour-tickets-769120860197) You can do the tour solo/with your favorite peeps, or try to generate a group ride of Meetup CycleNuts by RSVPing here and posting the day and time you are interested in others joining you. Either way, have fun on your memory-making adventure, and thank you for being a CycleNut! ### SOL in Columbus, OH \- A Smart\-guided Short One\-way Loop Bikeway Tour Short One-way Loop (SOL) in Columbus on bikeways. The smart-guided tour is mostly through scenic riverside parks with a quick downtown peek. All of that in 10 miles! 83% of the route is bikeway, and the rest is Google Maps designated "bicycle-friendly roads". This short ride passes through several beautiful riverside parks. Passing through downtown the route runs alongside Huntington Park baseball stadium, Nationwide Arena hockey stadium, near North Market (worth a stop if you enjoy markets with lots of tasty treats), within a few blocks of the state capitol, convention center, art museum, center of science and industry, several first-class hotels, and much more (see Points of Interest list below). Easily, anywhere along the way, the tour can be detoured to nearby points of interest. This smart-guided route comes with CycleNuts' 50% downhill guarantee. Sweating is optional. If your bike has gears, you might use them to climb in a few spots. All bikes are appropriate for this smart-guided tour (even a single-speed if you do not mind walking your bike up the spots mentioned). The route is shaded about 50% of the way. Sweating is optional - you set your pace, starting time, and touring agenda. Points of interest: COSI Scioto River North Market German Village The Scioto Mile Brewery District Huntington Park Nationwide Arena Columbus Union Station Arch Greater Columbus Convention Center **The Meetup plan = Show up, Rally with whoever else shows up, and Roll following the smart-guided instructions.** This is a smart guided tour route that can be ridden any day or time, solo or with others. It is only posted with a repeating set time and date with a tour leader to fit the Meetup format, and, more importantly, to encourage you to get out and ride when it is convenient for you. **If you are going to ride it and would like the company of others, then simply RSVP and post in the comments when it is that you are going to ride - date and time.** Take pictures/videos and share. Have fun! ***This is a repeating event on the calendar***\*, but the date and time do not necessarily need to be what is posted. **If you are interested in riding with a group, then simply RSVP and leave a message in the comment section** giving the date and time you would like others to join you. If you are interested in riding by yourself or with your private group of friends, then simply do it.\* ***The mission of this format is to create a catalog*** *of free group tour routes available for CycleNuts to ride as a group, or solo, in an area spanning several states. **The goal is to get people out cycling** either in groups or solo. **The vision is a cycling community with resources** available for bike tours, bike talk, and a format for lives experienced at the speed of bike.*

JOIN CSC FOR A WINTER ADVENTURE! Prairie Oaks Winter Hike Central Ohio Metro Parks — Winter Hike Series Bundle up, hit the trails, and experience the magic of Ohio’s winter landscape with fellow CSC members! Enjoy crisp air, scenic paths, and a chance to recharge in nature. Hike will be approximately 3 miles long, hot chocolate will be provided by the Central Ohio Metro Parks prior to the hike. Please meet at the restroom/hot chocolate area. Dogs welcome. CSC Membership not required for this event! [Dec_2025_CSC_Track Newsletter.pdf]()