Winter Biking

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

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. **5.6 mile loop with a 685 ft. elevation gain that makes the hike the equivalent to a bit over 7 miles. (400ft gain = 1 mile)** **\*\* This hike is limited to 20 participants per park no permit regulations.**\*\* **Description:** **[Rock Creek Park](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/index.htm)**[ ](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/index.htm)is truly a **gem** in our **nation's capital**. This **1,754 acre city park** was officially authorized in **1890**, making it the **third national park**. It offers visitors the opportunity to escape the bustle of the city and find a peaceful refuge, recreation, fresh air, majestic trees, wild animals. Military Road divides the park into North and South. This hike starts from the **[Rock Creek Park Nature Center](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/nature-center-and-planetarium.htm)** (closed Mon/Tues) and heads **east** and then **south** following the **creek** to the **[Valley Trail](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/maps.htm)**, the **[Rock Creek Trail](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington-dc/western-ridge-trail-rock-creek-valley-trail)** and finally to the **[Western Ridge Trail](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/maps.htm)** through **[Pierce Mill](https://www.nps.gov/places/peirce-mill.htm)** and then back to the **[Nature Center](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/nature-center-and-planetarium.htm)**. This month we will do the hike in the reverse order. **Pace**: pace is about **2.-2.7 mph** while moving. **Bring:** adequate water/hydration, also snack/lunch, insect repellant and sturdy hiking shoes since there are rocky areas, tree roots. **Dogs:** Dogs are welcome on this hike in accordance with the **[NVHC Dog Policy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy).** **Weather:** weather in this location is **[HERE](https://weather.com/weather/today/l/4977d84136752e007d09245dc605351849a561f839bb8c7d002ae55470e11441).** **Meetup Location:** we will meet in the parking lot of the **[Rock Creek Park Nature Center and Planetarium](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/nature-center-and-planetarium.htm)** (Closed Monday and Tuesdays) at 5200 Glover Rd NW, Washington, DC 20015 GPS Coordinates : **38°57'34.1"N 77°03'05.6"W.** **[LINK](https://maps.app.goo.gl/TyjHWMHpevqTW1Fr8?g_st=im)** **Please arrive by 9:45 am to get signed in in time to start the hike at 10 am.** **Rock Creek Park** **[Map of Hike](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington-dc/western-ridge-trail-rock-creek-valley-trail)** **[Hiking in Rock Creek Park](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/hiking.htm)** **[Map of Rock Creek Park](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/maps.htm)** **Questions:** feel free to text/call me, Dawn, at 703 533 9231

Bring your lights for the “Friday Night” Skate! **Join us for the Friday Night Skate!** See the monuments of DC all lit up at night! We will meet at the National World War I Memorial “Pershing Park” at 7pm. We’ll warm up with a nice easy skate to the Capital and skate along the mall and museums to the National Monument. We will then head to the Lincoln Memorial through the World War II Memorial. Those interested in just a 5.5 mile skate can backtrack to Pershing Park. The group will then proceed from the Lincoln to Haynes Point via Ohio Drive with the option to take the 3 mile loop (12 mile total skate) or sit by the water and enjoy the crisp air (8.5 mile total skate.) There are three options to loop back to the Pershing Park WWI Memorial and our path back will depend on the preferences / skill of the group. The skate is mostly flat on good pavement with a small slope coming down from the Washington Monument and a 40 yard small slop from the Lincoln to Ohio Drive. If skaters are more advanced we will cross the 14th St bridge, enjoy a few up and down hills and finish with a downhill through the 12th St. tunnel. Please feel free to jazz it up with lights, I wear a helmet bike light, a fun set of lights and lighted wheels! Wear your lights so you have fun, can see and be seen! In case of bad weather, I will cancel the skate by 6pm on this post. **Of course, all skating is at your own risk.**

**NOTE: \*New start Point at Major Lansdale Blvd in the Parking Lot of Jerry's Seafood and Smokey Bones\*** Meetup is at 5:30p and on the pedals at 6:00p. This "**IS"** a SAG supported ride. Please bring $5 exact change or CashApp: ***$ZOAROO***. SAG number will given at the pre-ride briefing. With the exception of flats, NO ONE IS LEFT BEHIND. Rather than the typical free-for-all, this ride is governed by Ride Marshalls who controls the pace at certain points in the route. Speeds vary from 15-19mph on rollers to 20+mph on the flats. Not to worry, at no time will you be required to ride at the front to pull the group. For those that have the need for speed, there is a sprint section throughout the route where you can test your fitness. Riders are allowed to go as fast or as easy as they like through these sections. There will be one official very brief regroup after crossing 202, near Walgreens off of Apollo Dr. After the regroup Everyone will ride at their own pace. cue sheet: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/54164089 PACE: A = 19+mph B = 17-19mph C = 15-17 D = 12-15 AMS (Average Moving Speed) may vary depending on terrain, traffic, and the ability of riders. **Please Read**: To maintain safety on the road and to be respectful of 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.

Improve your balance, mobility, and flexibility with this beginner-friendly workout! Learn how to properly stretch your muscles to experience enhanced functionality and quality of life. Please bring a mat or towel to class. Level: All **Register Here:** [pgparksdirect.com](https://mdpgparksweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/iteminfo.html?Module=AR&FMID=532319574) Activity Code: 17680-279E Classes may be canceled due to inclement weather or wet grounds. Call 301-927-0822 for weather-related cancellations. For fastest response to any questions, or for more information, please contact Health and Wellness directly at (301) 446-6800; TTY (301) 699-2544 or email [wellness@pgparks.com](wellness@pgparks.com)

[https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42682114](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42682114) 28 miles. Picnic break at Wolf Trap around 13.2 miles into the ride. We have toilets halfway along the trail and near the beginning of the trail. NEW: E-biking to Wolf Trap (+/- 27.4 miles). Download the trail here: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42682114 PLEASE NOTE: We start from Lindway Terrace Park. It sounds so far away, but it is within e-biking range. Join us as we embark on a fantastic 28-mile e-bike ride to Wolf Trap National Park in Virginia and return via the W&OD trail. Be ready to e-bike through spectacular landscapes on rustic roads in McLean and Great Falls' upscale neighborhoods. We do not e-bike on gravel roads, but be aware of the hills. Charge your batteries. Wolf Trap National Park is a unique and beautiful destination in Northern Virginia's heart. It is the only national park dedicated to the performing arts, offering visitors various cultural and entertainment experiences. The park covers over 100 acres of lush woods and rolling hills, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors to the park can enjoy various outdoor activities, including hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching. The park also features several trails that wind through the woods, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Whether you're a nature lover or just looking for a relaxing place to spend the day, Wolf Trap National Park is the perfect destination. The park's highlight is the Filene Center, a beautiful outdoor theater that offers a unique and intimate performance experience. From classical music to rock concerts, the Filene Center has something to offer for everyone. Visitors can also take a backstage tour and learn about the history and workings of the theater. Wolf Trap National Park is a must-visit e-biking destination for anyone looking to escape the city and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and the arts. With its picturesque surroundings, diverse activities, and world-class performances, it's easy to see why Wolf Trap is a beloved destination for visitors of all ages. Did you know that E-bike Lovers is an Amazon Affiliate? [https://ebikelovers.com/reviews](https://ebikelovers.com/reviews) FYI: Ride With GPS E-bike Lovers club membership is now free as [www.ebikelovers.com](http://www.ebikelovers.com/) is generating sufficient income from ads to cover the costs. Here is the link to activate your free membership: [https://ridewithgps.com/auto_approve/Club/6746/Zwa5jhttF5mJrFbN](https://ridewithgps.com/auto_approve/Club/6746/Zwa5jhttF5mJrFbN) The group stops a few times for slower riders to catch up. For the E-bike Lovers group to be successful, we need to grow our membership carefully. Please feel free to invite other E-bike lovers, spread the word, and let's have fun. As usual, non-assisted bikers are most welcome. DISCLAIMER LIMITATION OF LIABILITY: TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMISSIBLE PURSUANT TO APPLICABLE LAW, NEITHER GREGORY MAASSEN, NATHAN MERRIS, 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

Weekly Saturday group ride, starting at Handy Bikes Retail Showroom. Come ride with locals in the area! This group ride is for average folks who want to go for an average ride. It's not quite a coffee ride, but it's definitely not a race! Routes will vary around the area, with an average speed around 14 mph (minimum of \~10 MPH) for around 15-30 miles. We'll be on pavement so bikes with smooth tires are encouraged, **helmets are mandatory**. Open to any riders who are willing and able to ride with a group including Class 1, 2, and 3 e-bikes. No speed demons please! Good group ride etiquette is a requirement. Shop opens at 10:00 am Show up and sign in by 10:15 am Roll out 10:30 am Please RSVP in advance, so that the ride leaders can prepare for the group's size. [Handy Bikes on Strava](https://www.strava.com/clubs/737920/leaderboard) [Handy Bikes on RideWithGPS](https://ridewithgps.com/organizations/14675-handy-bikes)

**Check back to see if the date or start time has changed. If chance of rain is > 29% or wind > 15 mph It may get cancelled/postponed** **ROUTE DISTANCE** The distance for this loop is \~20.3 miles +/- 767 ft. Ten miles down to Georgetown and ten miles back up the CCT to the starting point. The only way to shorten the distance is to stop somewhere before Georgetown and return the same way. **TRAIL DETAILS** In need of a relaxing escape from your usual habitat? These two trails are famous for their views of the Rock Creek and Potomac River. What can be more relaxing than the sound and sight of water cascading over rocks and watching sailboats? There are several sections that offer shade and cool breezes blowing across the trail. Although this loop is "flatish," there are more elevation changes compared to the Paint Branch and Rhode Island Trolley trails (the flatter trails we ride). **Note 1:** We will need to bike 2.0 miles on neighborhood streets once we get off the Georgetown Branch Trail in Bethesda to get back to the starting point. There is no better option. **Note 2:** There are a couple of street crossings. As long as you are not distracted and WAIT for the green light or for a clear break in traffic, you will be fine. **SKILL LEVEL:** As long as you've biked at least 20 miles in the past two weeks, you should be able to complete this ride comfortably. We average a casual 9-15 mph on this route, and we add stops for hydration and socializing. Faster riders are welcome to go at their own pace and stop at the regroup spots (to wait for slower riders to catch up). Slower riders can go at their own pace and if they missed the 5-10 minute regroup stop, they can continue and use a nav app, if needed. **PARKING & MEETUP SPOT** Park at the Meadowbrook Park parking lot. Meet us in an oval formation by 11:00 for check-in and the icebreaker question. I'll post the question at least one day before so you can prepare! Late arrivers should let the group know by posting a comment in the event. Otherwise, we assume you're a "no show." Road, hybrid, and mountain tires will work. E-bike riders are welcome. **RESTROOMS** Located at the starting point, in Rock Creek Park going down to Georgetown, in Georgetown (the rest stop) on the C&O Canal path, and at retail shops in Bethesda. **THE PLAN** After check-in and the icebreaker question, we'll depart. **1\. Ride southward on the Rock Creek Trail** We'll start at Meadowbrook Local Park (the bathrooms may not be open but there are three outdoor loos). Then bike down to Georgetown (the Washington Harbor waterfront area). We'll stop for a break (optional). **Regroup Spots:** 1. Intersection of Beach Drive and Broad Branch 2. Rock Creek Park Station at Beach Drive & Joyce Road. (Keryn will stop & wait if needed.) 3. National Zoo staff road intersection\*\* with the trail. (Keryn will stop & wait if needed.) 4. Pierce Mill (bathroom/ rest stop) The RCT is mostly shady due to trees on the side of the trails. It hugs the Rock Creek from one end of the park to the other, providing scenic views and it often has breezes to cool bikers off. It is mostly flat. Only one noticeable hill when you get to Cathedral Ave (near to the National Zoo). It will take 45-65 minutes to bike. **2\. Take a 30 to 60\-minute break in Georgetown \(Washington Harbor\)**. We plan on a 30-minute minimum stop for socializing/lunch/relaxing/cooling off). Some participants may want to return earlier, and some want to stay longer. We usually work out who’s staying vs going back earlier. Feel free to go on your own or join us for a group lunch (picnic or retail) if anyone offers. **3\. Ride north on the CCT \(\~45 minutes\)** Meet up at TBD. CCT is mostly flat and scenic, but it may have a lot of walkers to navigate around the last 3 miles. **Regrouping spots:** **1\. Thompson boat house** 2. **Fletcher's Cove Boat House** (5-10 min stop for socializing/drinking etc. 3. **Capital Cresent Tunnel** (Keryn will stop & wait if needed) 4. **Capital Crescent Trail entry (opposite Ourisman Honda)** 4760 Bethesda Ave, Bethesda, MD. 5\. Street intersections on the way back to starting point\. **BIKE RENTALS** NA **BIKE REPAIR** NA - participants may volunteer to help **RECOMMENDATIONS** **Bring:** Water bottles, snacks, biking gloves, bike bell, bike lock, helmet visor, sunglasses, bike tube, pump, patch, first aid kit, mobile phone with nav app installed (e.g. Google maps, we use RidewithGPS). If you get leg cramps during or after a ride, take electrolytes before and during your ride (or add salt and magnesium to your water). A change of clothes for your ride home or a car seat cover to absorb sweat. **Clothing:** Wear biking gloves and durable clothing so that if you do fall, your skin is protected. Avoid wearing all black, all grey, all dark brown, or all dark blue, which blends in with pavement, especially while riding through a shady segment. Consider wearing something lighter to help others notice you. **REQUIREMENTS** **Participants must wear tightly secured helmets when on their bike and carry a charged mobile phone.** **Be proactive to avoid a fall/crash and minimize injury:** \- Keep a distance between yourself and other bikers\. If the biker ahead of you suddenly stops\, you should be able to avoid hitting them\. \- Don’t make stops on the trail\. Pull over to the side and use hand gestures to let people know you’re slowing down to make a stop\. \- Yelling out “Passing on your left” and/or ringing a bike bell as you approach people ahead of you\, so they don’t inadvertently move in your line of travel\. \- Slowing down to wait\, rather than speeding up when trying to pass people at the same time walkers/bikers are approaching you from the opposite direction\. \- Avoid potholes and debris and slow down when approaching bumps \- When approaching road crossings and iffy situations\, triple\-check before crossing and don’t let yourself be distracted by talking\, etc\. \- Keep a distance between yourself and other bikers in case of a sudden stop If you have a medical emergency, call 911. **MEETUP POLICIES** Participants should understand that biking is an inherently dangerous activity, and an accident could happen at any time. **Participation is at your own risk**. An RSVP of “Yes” to an event is your digital signature acknowledging that you have read, understood, and agree with Meetup’s and MD Rail Trail Biking’s policies, esp. section 6 “Release” and section 8.2 ” Limitation of Liability,” found at [https://www.meetup.com/terms/](https://www.meetup.com/terms/) * Support the Coalition for the Capital Crescent Trail. Their [Donate](https://cctrail.nationbuilder.com/donate) page

Our DC UL friend is on the AT, so we'd like to meet up with her and do some trail magic! The plan is to meet at Grosvenor Metro at 7am on Saturday and carpool to the AT parking lot in Port Clinton PA (stopping at a Sheetz along the way). We will pack heavy and bring lots of luxury foods that someone thru hiking for months would enjoy! We will hike south on the AT until we meet Elisabeth and then head back north to the Windsor Furnace shelter and eat dinner and any excess trail magic. We will hike north on the AT for a bit more and then loop back to the cars the next day. We can grab some food at Port Clinton before driving back. \*\*\*Note: this plan is subject to change based on Elisabeth's progress\*\*\* Here's the planned route on CalTopo: [https://caltopo.com/m/KP78H87# ](https://caltopo.com/m/KP78H87# ) Here is the parking area: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/44sPoZsspRzr8gt16](https://maps.app.goo.gl/44sPoZsspRzr8gt16) If you are an "applicant" (meaning that this is your first DCUL trip), please send me your gear list. I will hold some spots for applicants so please join the waitlist! This will be a good opportunity to be a member before summer trips **Waiver**: By RSVPing to this trip or any other DC UL trip, you agree to these guidelines and to DC UL's waiver liability terms ([https://dculbackpacking.com/about/liability-waiver/](https://dculbackpacking.com/about/liability-waiver/)) COVID-19 policy: [https://dculbackpacking.com/about/covid-19-guidelines/](https://dculbackpacking.com/about/covid-19-guidelines/) **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/JenniferAdach/15](https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/JenniferAdach/15)** ($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. I'm anticipating this will be around $33 for riders.

Experience the Appalachian Trail in late spring, when the forest is fully green and alive but the heat of summer hasn’t quite set in. Surrounded by a vibrant canopy, this section of the AT is a great place to enjoy the outdoors with a group of like-minded friends. The route offers a little bit of everything—rocky stretches, low-lying areas, and beautiful, wooded terrain. We’ll head south on the AT to the Whiskey Hollow Shelter, where there are plenty of campsites and reliable water sources to set up for the night. There is also an older shelter nearby (Dick’s Dome). Miles: 10.0 (roundtrip) Rating: Level 6 ([View Hiking Rating Scale](https://washingtonwomenoutdoors.org/hiking-rating-scale/)) $25 members; $35 non-members Register for this event on our website [here](https://washingtonwomenoutdoors.org/event-6630592). All trip details including equipment list, meetup spot, and driving directions will be provided by email the week prior to the trip. **NOTE: No further trip details will be provided on Meetup.** **There is limited space for this event.** Register early on our website to reserve your spot! If you're not ready to register for this event but would like more information, please email: backpack@washingtontonwomenoutdoors.org. Find out about WWO Member benefits here: https://washingtonwomenoutdoors.org/membership-fees/.

**Weather permitting**, we’ll take a casual ride from Pickerington Ponds (Glacier Knoll) to Three Creeks and back. Distance is **18–25 miles**, depending on where we turn around and whether we add a side loop. Pace is around **12 mph**, but this is a fun, no‑drop ride — we can slow down as needed. Here’s the **map** showing Glacier Knoll (bike), Confluence Park (flag), and BrewDog: [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit..](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit..). Text or call Scott at **614‑975‑4458** if you’re coming. Columbus ski club membership not required for this event. CSC assumes no responsibility for the event or any injuries as this is organized by a third party.

BIKE RIDE TO SUNBURY Dust off your bikes, pump up your tires, and get out and ride. • When: Saturday, May 30, 10AM • Where: Leaving from the Westerville Library, 126 S. State Street, 43081 ◦ Meet at East side of parking lot by the playground. Trip Itentiary • 20 miles round trip • Ride to Sunbury, stop for lunch (Location TBD), then ride back to the Westerville Library • All skill levels welcome Contact: Therese Butz (614-561-1976), Art Kahn (614-370-5246) Columbus Ski Club membership not required for this event. CSC assumes no responsibility for the event or any injuries as this is organized by a third party.

**Weather permitting**, we’ll take a casual ride from Pickerington Ponds (Glacier Knoll) to Three Creeks and back. Distance is **18–25 miles**, depending on where we turn around and whether we add a side loop. Pace is around **12 mph**, but this is a fun, no‑drop ride — we can slow down as needed. Here’s the **map** showing Glacier Knoll (bike), Confluence Park (flag), and BrewDog: [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit..](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit..). Text or call Scott at **614‑975‑4458** if you’re coming. Columbus ski club membership not required for this event. CSC assumes no responsibility for the event or any injuries as this is organized by a third party.