What we’re about
Washington Women Outdoors (WWO) is a non-profit organization founded in the Fall of 1977 and recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) in the Spring of 1979, that is run almost entirely by volunteers. We engage in outdoor activities in the Washington, DC area where women share skills, experience, strengths, and support to enhance and expand each woman's world. We welcome women of diverse ages, races, and lifestyles. WWO provides instruction by women for women. Activities are available for all skill levels to inspire the beginner and to challenge the more advanced.
WWO members are independent women who seek adventure in the outdoors. We have a passion for hiking, biking, rock climbing, caving, backpacking, kayaking, cross country skiing, horseback riding, hang gliding, and anything that tests our strength and broadens our horizons. We enjoy meeting new people who want to travel with us to beautiful places in the wilderness. If you are open to learning new things in a supportive environment and enjoy sharing the outdoors with other women, we invite you to join us.
WWO is different than typical Meetup groups. We scout our hiking and biking trips. Each trip is led by two leaders. One leader stays at the front of the group and the second leader is the sweep. Each participant is encouraged to participate at her own pace, and the sweep is there to ensure that no one is left behind. We want each participant to go at their own pace so that they enjoy their experience and come back to the outdoors.
Please visit our website: https://washingtonwomenoutdoors.org/ for more information and to register for events.
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Hazel River Falls Day HikeNeeds location
5.3 miles (out-n-back), Level 5, suitable for intermediate and above hikers. A trail that leads you into the Shenandoah Wilderness to an exceptional waterfall.
$0 basic member; $15 non-memberWhat to expect:
Hazel River Falls is a hidden gem tucked within Shenandoah NP, offering a moderately challenging hike with a big payoff: waterfalls, caves, and serene forest vibes. The waterfall isn't towering-it's modest in size- but it makes up for it with quiet charm and natural allure.
As we descend through lush woodlands, the sound of rushing water builds anticipation. There's a steep descent to reach the falls, but a clear, cool shallow watering hole awaits (perfect for dipping your toes or enjoying peaceful break). Flanking the area are a pair of small caves carved into the rocky hillside, adding a bit of mystery to our adventure. If you're craving nature with a hint of magic and fewer crowds, Hazel River Falls is your kind of place.
As with all WWO hikes, there will be a leader and a sweep, and no one will be left behind.- Register for this ride on our website at this link: WWO-Hazel River Falls Day Hike
- Upon completion of registration and the waiver, trip information will be forwarded by email. If you do not see confirmation email from Washington Women Outdoors in your in-box, immediately check your spam folder.
No further trip details will be provided on Meetup.
There is limited space on this event. Register early on our website to reserve your spot!
Although this ride is FREE for Basic Members, please register!
Find out about WWO Member benefits at this link:
https://washingtonwomenoutdoors.org/MembershipIf you're not ready to register for this event and would like more information, please email:
hike@washingtonwomenoutdoors.org - Exploring Gravel Riding from Bluemont, VABluemont Community Center, Bluemont, VA
22 miles, 1400" elevation. Suitable for advanced beginners and above. Gravel roads with gentle hills and a few short steeper climbs.
Members $0; Non-members $15
Register here: Exploring Gravel RidingHave you been wondering what all this fuss is about gravel riding? Join us to explore gravel riding on this scenic loop out of Bluemont, VA in Loudon County and find out. You will experience low traffic roads along the beautiful countryside. The gravel is well packed for the most part, with just a few bumpy sections on primarily gentle hills with just several short, steeper ups and downs. We’ll see horses, fantastic old stone walls, scenic churches and graveyards, and beautiful old villages. You must be comfortable handling some uneven terrain and should have tires that are at least 35mm, preferably with some textured tread. There will be a leader and sweep, and no one will be left behind.
- You must register and pay for this event on our website at this link: Exploring Gravel Riding. Although this ride is FREE for Members, please register! Register early on our website to reserve your spot!
- No further trip details will be provided on Meetup. Upon completion of registration and the waiver, trip information will be forwarded by email. If you do not see confirmation email from Washington Women Outdoors in your in-box, check your spam folder.
If you're not ready to register for this event and would like more information, please email: bike@washingtonwomenoutdoors.org
Find out about WWO Member benefits at this link: WWO Membership Information
- Western MoCo Agriculture Reserve Bicycle RideRiley's Lock, Seneca Creek, Poolesville, Md, Poolesville , MD
35 miles, 2000 feet elevation. Scenic rural roads with several challenging climbs. For Intermediate and Advanced riders.
Members $0; Non-members $15.
Register here: Western MoCo Agriculture Reserve Bicycle RideLeaving from Riley’s Lock, we will explore the western reaches of the Montgomery County Agriculture Reserve along low-traffic roads, passing working farms, cornfields and woodlands. The ride begins with two climbs that will get your heart pumping with a few more challenging hills for good measure before we end. But it’s well worth the effort! This ride is suitable for intermediate riders (who like hills) and advanced riders.
After the ride, we invite you to join us in collecting trash along Riley's Lock Road, the "Rustic Road" that WWO has adopted as part of the County's program to preserve historic and scenic roadways and keep them litter free.
- You must register and pay for this event on our website at this link: Western MoCo Agriculture Bicycle Ride. Although this ride is FREE for Members, please register! Register early on our website to reserve your spot!
- No further trip details will be provided on Meetup. Upon completion of registration and the waiver, trip information will be forwarded by email. If you do not see confirmation email from Washington Women Outdoors in your in-box, immediately check your spam folder.
If you're not ready to register for this event and would like more information, please email: bike@washingtonwomenoutdoors.org
Find out about WWO Member benefits at this link: WWO Membership Information
