Women's Hiking

**WALK DESCRIPTION:** These two walks could well be full of surprises - like all of our Melbourne Bushies walks can be! Both walks are through geographically and historically significant areas to the entrance to Port Phillip Bay. Both walks begin along stretches of well-formed tracks with intermittent patches of surf and beach culture. The 18km option - a first time for our club hikers - starts by going to the panoramic views of the Barwon Heads bluff. Maybe from then on expect a fast paced walk. The 15km walk is an easy one, with a few inclines. This one I think is a chat and walk, catch up with old and new MBW friends. We eventually pass lighthouses that have guided ships through the treacherous Heads for many decades, with both walks finishing at Queenscliff's historic fort that guards the bay's entrance. Both walks will be on a variety of walking tracks - sand (mostly soft, but some will be firm sand I hope!), some on paved path then finishing off on an enchanting scrub track that leads us to the Queenscliff lighthouse, where both walks end with spectacular views of the bay. Finally, no promises, but we saw a pod of dolphins off Point Lonsdale on the preview walk. You may wish to bring along a half frozen bottle of your choice to leave on the bus to rehydrate after your walk. A reminder to bring a change of footwear for the trip back, because muddy boots leave marks on the bus that our club pays to have cleaned. Please note that at this time of year there is always a possibility of encountering snakes, and appropriate leg covering is recommended. As the weather can be warm at this time of year, **please carry at least 2 litres of water.** . **DISTANCE(S):** 15km and 18km . **TOTAL ASCENT(S):** 100m Rise and 200m Rise . **GRADINGS:** Easy and Medium **Easy (E):** Walking mostly on tracks or in open country, with possibly some stretches of light scrub. Few hills and adequate rest stops. Distances may be up to 15km in flat open terrain but will be shorter if scrub or significant hills are involved. **Medium (M):** Consistent walking on tracks or in open bushland, usually with patches of thicker scrub, several moderate climbs, and/or rock hopping. Distances up to about 22kms with reasonable rest stops. A good level of fitness and walking experience is required. **.** **PLEASE NOTE:** Your RSVP on MeetUp lets us know who may be interested but does not add you to the booking list. To register and pay for the walk you must visit our clubrooms (details below). . **HOW TO BOOK AND PAY:** (a) Visit the Melbourne Bushwalkers' clubrooms on either of the two Wednesday evenings before the walk, speak to the leader and, if it is agreed to walk, make a payment to secure your place on the bus. (b) To cancel a Sunday Walk booking before 4pm on the Thursday before the walk, send a note to sunday@mbw.org.au. A credit will be issued for a future walk. (c) To cancel a Sunday Walk booking after 4pm on the Thursday before the walk contact the walk leader direct. You should be given the walk leader contact details at the time of booking. (d) The costs for the walk are $30 bus fare plus $10 visitor fee if you are not a paid-up Member of Melbourne Bushwalkers. . **OUR CLUBROOMS:** Our clubrooms are located at The Mission to Seafarers Victoria, 717 Flinders Street, Docklands. We are open Wednesday nights 6:30pm - 8.00pm. . **CONTACT US:** To contact us regarding this walk send an email to sunday@mbw.org.au. We do not regularly check the MeetUp site for messages and the above address will get a faster response. **.** **CAN I MEET AT THE START OF THE WALK?** No! Since Sunday Bus walks are generally walks starting and finishing at two widely separated locations we do not accept walkers meeting at the start of the walk. There is no way for them to get back to their transport. We can arrange for a pick-up and drop-off at a designated location along the route closer to Melbourne, however, the full bus fee is still payable since a seat has to be kept free on the bus. . **IMPORTANT TO KNOW:** Registration (membership) on Meetup is not the same as paid-up Membership of MBW. To become a paid-up Member with online booking and other benefits see: https://mbw.org.au/MBW_membership.php . **WHAT TO BRING:** A day pack containing: \* Lunch, a morning and afternoon snack. \* Full water bottle - we recommend 2 litres, more in warmer weather. \* An unlined waterproof jacket or cape, waterproof over-trousers (if your jacket is short). \* Whistle, pencil and paper. \* Personal and first aid items, including sun screen, lip screen, toilet paper, identification, Club green Health Card, some money etc. Note: The leader always carries a first aid kit. \* A change of footwear for the trip back. . **DO YOU HAVE COMPREHENSIVE AMBULANCE COVER?** The Club strongly recommends that all participants have comprehensive personal ambulance cover. . **MORE DETAILS:** The visit to the clubrooms on a Wednesday before a walk is to cover three things: (a) Provide background on the club and ensure all walkers are familiar with the safety and courtesy guidelines we adopt; (b) Meet with the leader of the walk who will be in the clubrooms to discuss any special features of the walk and ensure that adequate gear and fitness requirements are met. (c) Sign an Acknowledgement of Risk form and pay the visitor fee ($10) and bus fee ($30) to reserve a seat on the bus. No booking is accepted until the payment is received. . **DAY WALKS BY BUS** with Melbourne Bushwalkers: https://mbw.org.au/mbw_activities/walks/MBW_bus_walks.php

Starting from Federation Square in the city we will walk along the main yarra trail to Burnley Gardens and loop back across MacRobertson Bridge - Grange Road to the opposite side of the Yarra trail returning to Federation Square. This is an easy walk that provides great city and park views as well as allowing us to take in all the river activity. Even at the busiest times it is peaceful along the river bank once we get away from the city. In total we will cover approximately 10.5 kms in approximately 2.5 hours. For anyone interested afterwards we will meet for a coffee, chat and lunch in Fed Square for anyone hungry. We look forward to catching up.

Starting from Federation Square in the city we will walk along the main yarra trail to Burnley Gardens and loop back across MacRobertson Bridge - Grange Road to the opposite side of the Yarra trail returning to Federation Square. This is an easy walk that provides great city and park views as well as allowing us to take in all the river activity. Even at the busiest times it is peaceful along the river bank once we get away from the city. In total we will cover approximately 10.5 kms in approximately 2.5 hours. For anyone interested afterwards we will meet for a coffee, chat and lunch in Fed Square for anyone hungry. We look forward to catching up.

**GRADE**: Hard **ELEVATION GAIN**: 440mtrs **DISTANCE**: 22km **EST TIME**: 6hrs **PACE**: Moderate **MEETING POINT**: Red Gum Picnic Area **HOST CONTACT**: 0415802146 This is a scenic adventure through Plenty River Gorge Park, covering both sides of the river and showcasing some beautiful bushland along the way. Expect winding tracks, rocky sections and peaceful river views that make you forget how close you are to the city. The loop should take roughly 6 hours depending on group pace and breaks. There may be a river crossing, so be prepared for wet feet. This hike suits those with a reasonable level of fitness who are happy to be on the move most of the day. A long but rewarding day out with great scenery and that satisfying end of day tiredness **All Trails Map** [All Trails Map Guide ](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/australia/victoria/plenty-river-gorge-park-loop?sh=imqpol&utm_medium=trail_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality) Aim to arrive 10 minutes before the start time & let me know if you’re running late (0415802146) Plans change, but please keep your RSVP up to date to allow others the chance to attend. Remember that phone reception won't always be available so contact me as soon as possible if required. **THINK BEFORE YOU HIKE** - [T.H.I.N.K](https://share.google/XV21gGEpWqWEDJLAB) **NOTIFICATIONS**: All notifications will come via the Meetup app. Ensure you have enabled alerts & check the app in the lead up to an event. Notifications may include; comments, instructions & cancellations.

👉🏻 [GET YOUR TICKET (CLICK HERE) ](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/1977239373191?aff=oddtdtcreator)👈🏻 🗓️ Date: Sunday, 18 January 2025 📍 Location: Sorrento Beach (Approximately 1 hour & 40 minutes from Melbourne CBD on Sundays) 📏 Hike Distance: Around 15 km total 🕙 Start Time: 2:45 PM. Please arrive at the hike/parking location (shared via the private Instagram group chat). This allows time for a quick ice breaker and, if available, a toilet break at the car park before we set off. The hike will begin promptly at 3:00 PM. 🕔 End Time: 6:30 PM 🚶‍♂️ Pace/Effort: Friendly and social / Easy. ⌛️ Average Hike Duration: 4–5 hours, depending on the group’s pace 💬 Community Chat Access: You'll be added to our private Instagram group chat after booking! **Optional Swim After the Hike 🌊** If you’d like to stick around after the hike, you’re welcome to stay for a relaxing swim 🏊 . We’ll be finishing close to sunset, so the weather is much gentler, and there’s less chance of getting sunburned. It’s a really peaceful way to end the day if you feel like it. Looking to meet new people, explore nature, and have a good laugh along the way? This is your perfect Sunday plan! 🎉 We’re excited to invite you to our upcoming Melbourne Social Hike. A welcoming day out where the focus is all about fun, friendships, and fresh air: whether you come solo or bring a mate, you’ll leave with new connections and memories! 🤩 Why Join? 🌟 Make new friends — super easy, zero pressure 🌟 Enjoy nature and fresh air with great company 🌟 Friendly vibes — laughs, chats, and good times guaranteed 🌟 Your next hiking buddy might just become your next uni mate, housemate, or travel buddy! ✨ Best practice: Passengers should try to secure transportation before purchasing a ticket to avoid any last-minute stress. **Important Carpooling Note** Drivers and passengers should adhere to the arrangements made in the Transport Group Chat. We **do not recommend swapping drivers or cars** after you’ve agreed on a ride. If you do decide to change, please make sure **all parties are clearly informed and agree** to avoid confusion. If a driver forgets, gets mixed up, or doesn’t pick you up, Wilderness Seekers Victoria (and your driver) is **not liable** for any inconvenience caused. For this reason, it is best to keep things simple with the driver you first arranged with. In the transport chat, drivers will share their preferred pick-up locations, often major CBD train stations like Parliament, Richmond, South Yarra, Southern Cross, or North Melbourne. 🎟️ **Tickets:** **All tickets are $20 per person.** This helps cover: * Public liability insurance * A $2.40 contribution per ticket directly to Parks Victoria * Experienced guides with a tour operator license who know the trails well * First aid kit and safety equipment for the group 🚗 **Carpoolers Discount** If you’re driving and offer seats to passengers, your ticket is only **$5** 🙌. 🥾 What to Bring: 👟 Comfy hiking shoes 💧 2–3L of water 🥪 Snacks/lunch ☀️ Sun protection (hat, sunnies, sunscreen) 🦟 Bug spray (always a good idea) 🎒 Optional: hiking poles, wet weather gear/raincoat 📸 How It Works: * After purchasing your ticket, you’ll receive a link to our private Instagram group chat. All final details will be shared there: Hike route, meet-up location, and any last-minute updates. * Friendly pace, friendly faces! This hike is intentionally medium, so anyone with some fitness can enjoy and chat along the way. Why Join Us? 🌱 Make new friends in a relaxed, casual way. 🌱 Enjoy nature while meeting people your age. 🌱 No pressure, just good vibes and real connections. 🌱 You never know. Today’s hiking buddy could be tomorrow’s uni mate, flatmate, or travel buddy! 🌱 Your safety is our priority. Equipped with a first aid kit on hand. 🍽️ Grab food after the hike (optional) ⚠️ Important: Must be 18+ years old to attend. Hike at your own risk. You are responsible for your own safety and belongings. Respectful, kind behaviour is a must. We are a positive and welcoming community. Zero tolerance for any unwelcome behaviour. We’re here to have fun, together! 📜 Liability Waiver: By joining this hike, you acknowledge that participation is voluntary and at your own risk. Wilderness Seekers Victoria is not liable for accidents, injuries, illnesses, theft, or transport-related issues. 🚑 If you have previous injuries, medical conditions, or health concerns, discuss with the organisers before purchasing your ticket. Transport/carpooling is a community initiative only, not a service. 👉 Please make sure to read our [Terms and Conditions (Click Here)](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1tUzOL94hk5Uk5c7FOjiPRHXZz--5H9p5/view?usp=drivesdk) before purchasing your ticket. Refund Policy: Tickets are non-refundable unless the event is cancelled or rescheduled. Tickets cannot be transferred to other events unless agreed with the organisers. 👉 Follow us on Instagram for updates and upcoming hikes: @wildseekvic 📞 Admin Contact: We highly encourage you to text our admin team before purchasing your ticket if you have any concerns about transport: Sebas 📱 0435 993 237 \| Jacob 📱 0404 870 123 🥳 Ready to make friends, explore Melbourne’s beautiful nature, and have a blast? Spots are limited, so grab your ticket now and let's hike, laugh, and connect! 🌿🎉

Live band - music in the park

Join Jane outside Brighton Baths for a 1 hour return walk towards Elwood. Then relax with a coffee and chat at the Brighton Yacht Club. Parking is free if you have a Bayside beach parking sticker. Otherwise try your luck for 2hr free parking in Chelsea or Grosvenor streets. In case you need it my mobile is 0401779137

**PLEASE READ THE FULL DESCRIPTION FOR HOW TO RSVP**👇 If you're keen to attend the Melbourne Gals Brunch on the **18th of January at 11am** to make some awesome new friends, please sign up via the Airtable personality form at [www.chillsy.app/brunch](http://www.chillsy.app/brunch) Spaces are limited to 25 so get in QUICK! If you've already filled out the form, sign up here: [https://www.chillsy.app/returning](https://www.chillsy.app/returning) 😁 **TO REGISTER:** Please sign up via the Airtable form, as it gives us the most accurate view of who is attending on the day which helps us hugely as organisers and makes it easy for you attending! Unfortunately, Meetup-only RSVPs will not be counted as registering for this reason. Signups close on the **Wednesday of the brunch**, please note any signups past this date may not guarantee you a spot. **BRUNCH FEE:** Our Gals Brunches require a fee because of the organisation and admin involved, and to maintain high-quality attendees. **LATE PAYMENTS:** If you make a payment **after** the Wednesday night cut-off, and don’t hear from us regarding the event details, we will automatically process a **refund** for you. To avoid confusion, please reach out directly to \*\*[galsbrunch@gmail.com**.](http://galsbrunch@gmail.com%2A%2A./) Meetup only shows display names which can make it difficult to locate your form/payment. **CAFE LOCATION:** If you have completed the signup & paid via Stripe, you will receive an email on the Thursday or Friday of the brunch with brunch details. **QUESTIONS & HELP:** Please email \*\*[galsbrunch@gmail.com**](http://galsbrunch@gmail.com%2A%2A/) directly, so we can resolve any issues quicker :)

Bona fide cow bell... Exciting door prize. 'Summertime' in Summertime. Andy Colville guitar (formerly Bushwackers) Andrew Soos Banjo, Phil Corser guitar and Sonia on Flute. Enjoy Gershwin's timeless classic and other timeless classics looking out at Summer weather in air conditioned comfort. The Edinburgh Gardens is a beautiful indoors space at the heart of the beautiful Edinburgh Gardens. Everyone one is welcome to turn up, enjoy the beautiful views from this room of the garden's or wander in the general vicinity taking advantage of the food preparation facilities, tables chairs. And bring stuff, lunch, drinks. Give the live music your full attention, let the folk songs and rock favourites of the 60's take you on a journey in music for the afternoon that the cycle tourer takes for a weekend while cycling through our amazing landscape. This music arvo is also a celebration of the preciousness of individuality and originality. This is a time for cycle tourers to debrief on the amazing experience of cycle touring. Bring a stylish hat and celebrate our idiosyncratic individualistic cyclist identities. For those of you who are familiar with the Edinburgh Gardens community Room, there are cooking facilities but no cooking or eating utensil’s or cups or drink containers, so BYO cutlery, plates, cups etc. The consumption of alcohol is allowed in the gardens outside the door but not allowed indoors, so if you want a glass of vino just step out the door into the gardens for a second. Watch the MBTC Band on YouTube then join us in January at Edinburgh Gardens community room: https://youtu.be/mzr7g_qdVuE?feature=shared Chill out in a beautiful location and listen to or join in with Andy Colville on guitar and Andrew Soos on banjo as they jam simple blues and pop songs from the 60's and the 20th century.

**🌞 Delectable Summer Social Stroll: Full Yarra Bend Circuit** **Saturday 17 January - 11 AM..Arrive at 10.45 AM please** Join us for a long, lazy, laughter‑filled summer social stroll tracing the full Yarra Bend circuit — a gorgeous loop of river bends, bushland, boardwalks, and iconic Melbourne nooks. This is our expanded version of the smaller Yarra Bend walk many of you enjoyed, now stretched into a full, flirty, scenic adventure. _**+++Ensure you read the rules at the end before joining. Registering = agreeing to them+++**_ We’ll begin at the Abbotsford Convent, (or more specifically st the Collingwood children's farm entrance), wander past Dights Falls, pause for snacks at the Studley Park Boathouse, and follow the river’s contours through some of the most beautiful natural pockets in inner Melbourne. Expect birdsong, breezes, shady gums, and plenty of social mingling along the way. This walk is exploratory for me as I've not done the full circuit before. You can choose your own finale: - 11 km Full Yarra Bend Circuit ending back at the Convent, or - 14 km Extended Merri Creek Trail Option finishing at Rushall Station for those who want a little extra summer sparkle in their step. 🕙 **Timing** - Option A: Arrive from 10:00 a.m. if you’d like breakfast or a pre‑walk coffee at the convent bakery (it gets very busy so allow time for queues). The Convent Bakery is rumoured to have ice‑cold smoothies worth writing home about, and we’ll swing by at the end for anyone who wants a refreshing treat. - Meet at 10:45 a.m. at the gates of the Collingwood Children’s Farm (about 50m from the Convent entrance at the end of the road). **- Walk begins at 11:00 a.m. sharp. Prior to the heat of the day**. Arrive by 10.45 a.m. - Expect 3–4 hours depending on pace, weather, silly jokes, banter, and snack enthusiasm. My priority is having a relaxing time so I'm not following a strict timetable. **☕ Mid‑Walk Pause** We’ll stop at Studley Park Boathouse for coffee, cold drinks, or a light bite. Bring a little cash or card if you’d like to indulge. **🚶 Route Highlights** - The leafy bends of the Yarra - Dights Falls lookout - Riverbank boardwalks and shaded bushland Abbotsford Convent - Studley Park Boathouse - Optional Merri Creek extension to Rushall Station - Plenty of photo spots, conversation pockets, and nature‑soaked moments **🚆 Getting There** - Train to Victoria Park Station is the easiest option, followed by a short walk to the Convent. - Parking at the Convent can be a gamble on weekends — arrive early if you’re trying your luck or choose elsewhere. **🌿 What to Bring** - Comfortable walking shoes - Water 2 litres - Sunscreen and a hat - A light snack if you like - Curiosity, good humour, and your best summer social energy **⚠️ Group Rules and Event Etiquette ⚠️** These are basic, commonsense standards that keep events safe, smooth, and enjoyable for everyone. **Fitness Requirements**: This should be an easy to moderate walk for people with average fitness. Ensure you can walk around 4km/hr for about 4 hours with breaks. Walk 15km comfortably with a small pack. We walk at a relaxed pace. Please ensure you meet the fitness level for the event. If the group is forced to wait excessively, you may be asked to leave the event. **⛹️ Pace: Too Fast or Too Slow** Small social group events rely on staying together. If you prefer a very different pace, consider attending solo, joining a faster/slower group, or choosing events that match your fitness.. **👩‍💼 Time Constraints** If you’re on a tight schedule, this may not be the right event. Social activities rarely run exactly on time **⚠️ CRITICAL EXPECTATIONS ⚠️** **👻 No‑Shows** No‑shows block waitlisted people from attending and disrupt small-group events. - Remove yourself at least 24 hours before the event. - No‑shows will likely be removed and blocked from the group. - Last‑minute cancellations (“flaking”) may also result in removal, especially when there is a waitlist. **👀 Attending Without Being on the Going List** This is a security issue. **Do NOT turn up unannounced**. If you’re not on the Going list and haven’t arranged it with the organiser beforehand, you will be asked to leave. Event check‑ins are being introduced **⏰ Late Arrivals** If you’re late, the group will not wait. - You may be marked as a No‑Show and removed from the group. - It’s your responsibility to communicate and catch up—this may not be possible for some events. **🎲 Second Chances** If something goes wrong, attempt to communicate with the organiser. Silence + poor behaviour = removal. Communication + accountability = second chances. This may not be possible during the event as the organiser is busy organising.

Hello Hikers!! Welcome to our Saturday morning hike at 9:00 AM! Many - but not all - of our hikes originate at Great Falls Park, off Georgetown Pike. Unless you already have an appropriate pass, the park entrance fee is $20/car for a single visit or $35/car for a 12-month pass that is good for the Maryland side of the river too. Come twice and you'll save 5 bucks! For the record, all scheduled hikes will be held even when it rains, snows or is super hot or cold unless the weather is too extreme to be safe. Our standard hike is a relatively easy 1 hour plus loop hike at a moderate pace. Usually a hike-extension is offered for those wishing to add a few miles more, up to 7 miles or so total. In spite of our Meetup name, we also hike in nearby parks such as Riverbend, Scott's Run, Turkey Run, Seneca, and Billy Goat A or C on theMaryland side of the Potomac. We have also scheduled hikes in Shenandoah NP and at Sugarloaf in Maryland. Please note that phone connections can be iffy in the park so don't call you are running late, but texting may work. It's best for you to be on time as we set out pretty much on time. This 1+ hour of hiking (or more) is a great way to relax, turn off your cell phones, make new friends, and get some exercise. I hope to see you on the next hike!! Thanks Dick, Julie, and Katie P.S. We will meet at the lower parking lot. Once you pass the ranger's booth, make an immediate U-turn to the right and follow the road downhill to the parking lot. We meet by the big rock at the far end of the lot.

This out-and-back moderately strenuous hike within the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests includes mountain views, unique rocky terrain, and beautiful overlooks. We will hike on the Buzzard Rock Trail and turnaround after a break at the overlook. The hike is about 6.2 miles with approximately 1,387 feet of elevation and is known to be rocky. **Hike Route**: [https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/overlook-via-buzzard-rock](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/overlook-via-buzzard-rock) **Hiking Pace**: We typically hike about 2 mph (faster on flat sections, slower on hilly / rocky sections); however, we leave no one behind and will move at a pace that is comfortable for all. **What to Bring**: At least two liters of water, emergency contact information, personal first aid kit and medications, snacks/meal, sunscreen, insect repellant, trekking poles if you use them, sturdy hiking footwear. Please leave pets at home. **Time to Meet**: Please meet by 8:45 for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 9:00 am. If you can't make the hike, please cancel your RSVP by 6 pm the night before to allow others on the waiting list to join. There is often limited/no cell service in the area, so hike leaders may not receive messages the day of the hike. **Meeting Place**: Google Map to Buzzard Rock Parking Area: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/moycivj2XfMXLXgH9](https://maps.app.goo.gl/moycivj2XfMXLXgH9) **Facilities:** No bathrooms **Contact Information**: Please use the comments feature for routine comments and questions. The hike leaders are Marc (571-422-5210) and Tim (202-744-0289). Call or text if needed. **Hike Details** -Rating: Moderate -Distance: Approx. 6.2 miles -Elevation Gain: Approximately 1,387 feet -Pace: Average about 2.0 miles per hour -Fees: N/A **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/7611596c9eed8df601933cfa85ff3eeef158583e0252228e1428e824b442a8f6). **Notes**: -You must sign up by 9:00 PM the day before the hike. -Please do not show up unregistered. -Please keep this a fragrance-free event. -Please leave pets at home. -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). -Attendance is limited at the discretion of our hike leaders. PATC rules do not permit children under 18 years to participate in a hike without a parent or guardian present.

Hike begins 10 am (eastern) Metup is being glitchy. This 4.9 lollipop loop hike is in the George Washington National Forest. It starts from the Signal Knob parking area off Fort Valley Road near Front Royal, VA. We'll break mid-hike for snack/lunch. Elevation gain is about 900 feet. There are a few intermittent stream crossings depending on previous precipitation. Always good to be prepared for the possibility of wet feet. The trail is rocky in parts. Evergreen mountain laurel lines sections of this pretty trail. We typically hike about 2 mph. However, we leave no one behind and will move at a pace that is comfortable for all. **Hike Route:** https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/tuscarora-bear-wallow-gwnf-abdeb6f **Group Size:** 20 hikers **Time to Meet:** Please meet 15-20 minutes prior to hike start for introductions and liability waiver sign in. If you can't make the hike, please edit your RSVP by 6 pm the night before to open a spot for another hiker. **Meeting Location/Parking:** We will meet at the Signal Knob parking lot, 11621 Fort Valley Rd, Fort Valley, VA 22652 **Facilities:** No restroom is available at the trailhead. **Admission:** Free **Contact Information**: Please use the comments feature for comments and questions. The hike leader is Lisa Peterson. **Cancellation**: In the event that the hike needs to be cancelled, hikers will be notified through comments on this posting. Please check Meetup for updates the evening before the hike. **What to Bring:** Water at least two liters, emergency contact information, personal first aid kit and medications, snacks/meal, sunscreen/protection from weather, insect repellant, trekking poles if you use them (highly recommended for hikes with water crossings), sturdy hiking footwear. Please leave pets at home. Thanks! **Notes:** * 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). Attendance is limited at the discretion of our hike leaders. PATC rules do not permit children under 18 years to participate in a hike without a parent or guardian present.

Dulles Town Center Mall Hike: Meet at the entrance to the right of the Regal Movie Theater. A Test of Endurance Join us for a 6-mile trek through the treacherous terrain of Dulles Town Center mall. This hike is rated as physically easy, but don't be fooled - the mental challenges will push even the most seasoned hikers to their limits. Hazards Include: The intoxicating aroma of freshly baked Cinnabon, threatening to derail even the most disciplined of diets. Endless rows of high-end storefronts, beckoning you to indulge in some serious retail therapy. Balmy 70-degree temperatures, lulling you into a false sense of comfort. Blinding fluorescent lights, capable of disorienting even the most experienced navigator. Will You Emerge Victorious? Afterwards we'll head over to The Bungalow Lake house 46116 Lake Center Plaza, Sterling, VA 20165 for their delicious brunch cuisine.

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 us for winter fun, hiking and ice skating! First time skaters welcome. We will meet next to the Mercury Fountain, which is north of the Ice Rink. From the fountain, we will take the Green Trail to Lake Anne. From there we continue on the Blue Trail and some other paths until we reach Lake Fairfax. We will zigzag through Lake Fairfax Park and we will have a break at Lake Fairfax Park Campground A (excellent facilities). Then we will continue through the Lake Fairfax Park until we make a right turn that will bring us close to the Reston Golf Course. We will hike along the golf course until we hit the W&OD trail at Sallie Mae Drive. Then we will follow the W&OD trail back to Reston, to start part 2 of the fun. The hike is 6 miles with \~400 feet elevation gain. We plan to arrive at the Reston Ice Rink about 11:45am for the ice skating portion of this event, followed by lunch at Makers Union about 1pm. Cost for skating is $11 adults/$9 senior or military plus $8 skate rental. Please only sign up if you are interested in both the hike and ice skating, as space is limited. Thank you. Distance: 6 miles Elevation: 400 ft. Pace: 2.5-3 mph while moving **Coordinates of the meeting place:** 38.958924, -77.356932 **Dogs:** not allowed **Leaders:** Willem Janssen, (202) 280-4397 and Kris N. (618) 623-2484 **Rating:** C **Map for hike:** https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-december-2-2024-9c838d2?u=i&sh=g8n9nn