Beginner Hiking Near Me

Easy Hike Along the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail

Join this new group to be a part of our first ever event (be an OG)! ...a brisk hike on the Heritage Trail, along Goose Creek, to the Potomac River. We'll rendezvous at the Riverpoint Drive Trailhead and follow the shoreline to the Bazil Newman Riverfront Park. This easy hike along the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail covers approximately 3.5 miles of clearly marked dirt trail, with about 40 feet of elevation gain. We may see some deer. The hike itself should take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete. Bring plenty of water; full cover clothing is suggested, as this is tick season and mosquitos are still active this time of year. All participants assume all liability for their own participation. Accidents are always possible; no one will be held liable. Some attendees might elect to go get a refreshment or a bite after the event itself; however, the Meetup event itself formally ends at the trailhead. Looking forward to meeting you for this inaugural Meetup event!

Saturday morning hike

Hello Hikers!! Welcome to our Saturday morning hike at 8:30 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. STAY IN THE RIGHT LANE WHEN APPROACHING THE PAYMENT BOOTH. Once you pass the ranger's booth, make an immediate right turn and follow the road downhill to the parking lot. We meet by the big rock at the far end of the lot.

Ball's Bluff Battlefield Regional Park ( Rating:D)

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. This is a 4\~5mile hike with an elevation gain of 600' on various trails in the Ball's Bluff Battlefield Regional Park [https://www.novaparks.com/parks/balls-bluff-battlefield](https://www.novaparks.com/parks/balls-bluff-battlefield) in Leesburg, VA. We will stop half way for a short snack break. We hike at a pace of 2.5 mph while moving. This is the site of one of the largest Civil War engagements in Loudoun County. Major sites at Ball's Bluff include a cemetery, which is the third smallest national cemetery in the United States. Ball's Bluff Battlefield Regional Park also features an interpretive trail, signage and an amazing view of the bluff itself, overlooking the Potomac River. We will start Edwards Landing Park. Leader: Nancy 703-346-3218 (C) [Rating: ](https://nvhc.com/hikeinfo/ratings/)D Meet: 9:00am at Edwards Landing Park. GPS coordinates: 39.120075, -77.524277 [https://maps.app.goo.gl/JnfJ9EURn4Z9GURC7](https://maps.app.goo.gl/JnfJ9EURn4Z9GURC7) Dogs are not permitted on this. Carpool Fee: N/A Park Entry Fee: $0.00

Seneca Regional Park Potomac Heritage Trail (Rating: C)

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. This is an enjoyable \~ 7.3 mile hike with \~780 feet of elevation gain. We'll start by hiking through a full growth hardwood forest of Elm, Ash Trees, and Tulip Poplars, the tallest deciduous tree in North America. We'll then connect to the Potomac Heritage Trail with its wildflowers and massive Sycamore trees. The hike is a loop. Part of the hike will be along the Patowmack Channel created by a series of islands in the river.We'll take our break on a sandy beach. Thanks to Bob G for the photo. We hike at a pace of 2.3 to 2.5 mph while moving. *You must have experience with hikes of this length and elevation gain.* Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicyhttps://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolic](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) Leader: Steve Frith cell 703-629-0174 Park Entry Fee: $0.00 Map for hike: https://www.gaiagps.com/map/?loc=15.0/-77.3190/39.0474&pubLink=obOQ48o079O4P48KYoJBIMa9&trackId=b81b5829-efdf-4bad-bb66-9e9de4a74efd

In-Person Disaster+Travel+Wilderness First Aid Certification Class

Hands-on learn how to save life & limb, when mired in the wilderness of an urban disaster zone, travel or rural area far from hospital, or natural area miles from an access point, during the critical minutes or hours before ambulance arrival. Come away with actual do-it-yourself care-giving skill and confidence, and 2-year SOLO certification. Counts as WFR Recertification, too. No prerequisites. YOUR SPOT IS NOT RESERVED UNTIL YOU'VE COMPLETELY REGISTERED AT WWW.SOLOWFA.COM \***Spaces are limited. REGISTER: www.solowfa.com or 434.326.4697** Can't make these dates? Check out more course locations and dates on our website. WHO: Open to the general public, adults & teens with solid attention spans. Know your loved ones are safe wherever they are. WHY: Whether you are in a disaster zone, traveling in a remote area far from medical care, or exploring the backcountry miles from the nearest access point, emergencies can happen without warning. Accidents, severe weather, and acts of terrorism can quickly create situations where professional emergency services are delayed, unavailable, or overwhelmed. In many cases, members of a group may not have the knowledge or skills needed to respond effectively, placing both the injured person and the entire group at greater risk. Many recreational injuries are preventable, and improper treatment of trauma can turn a minor injury into a serious medical emergency. Yet few first aid programs address the realities of providing care when 911 is unavailable, delayed, or unable to respond. This course combines classroom instruction and interactive discussion with practical, hands-on training and problem-solving exercises. Realistic scenarios and experiential learning activities make up approximately 50% of the class, providing participants with the confidence and skills needed to manage emergencies in challenging environments. TIMING: This is a 2-day class, Saturday and Sunday, 8:00am -7pm each day. Fee: $295 (Earlybird) $345 (If registering less than 30 days before class)

The Art of Tasting Beer

619 to Shawl Gap via Buzzard Rock (Rating: B)

REQUIRED: *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.* The hike will be 8 miles with approximately 1,800' elevation gain. We'll hike up to Buzzard Rock, then on to Shawl Gap where we'll do a short loop on the Shawl Gap Trail. We'll retrace our steps, stopping for lunch at an overlook before continuing on to the parking lot. We'll hike at a pace of 2.5-3.0 mph when moving. Trail is very rocky and requires a bit of scrambling in some spots. Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) **Leader:** Maryellen Trevisan 202-730-5314 **Carpools:** Meet at the [Centreville Park & Ride](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Centreville+Park+%26+Ride/@38.836009,-77.4564652,18z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0x3d3e139d818567f2!8m2!3d38.8359296!4d-77.4553279). The driving time from there to the trailhead is about 1 hour. Please arrive by 7:30am to form carpools so all cars can leave by 7:45am. Suggested carpool fee is $8. **PLEASE NOTE:** Neither the Club nor the hike leaders are responsible for coordinating transportation to/from the trailhead. Hikers are not guaranteed to get a ride to the trailhead from the carpool location. Carpooling is organized by the participants and they participate at their own risk. **Trailhead:** Buzzard Rock Parking Area GPS Coordinates: 38.937583, -78.288444 [https://goo.gl/maps/GX9B7n5pdyDcYrtM7](https://goo.gl/maps/GX9B7n5pdyDcYrtM7) Arrive by 8:45am to sign in. Hike begins at 9am. Parking at trailhead is limited. Park Entry Fee: $0 Rating: B Map for hike: [https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/buzzard-rock-with-loop-5a37f78](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/buzzard-rock-with-loop-5a37f78) **You must be experienced in hikes of this distance and elevation gain.**

First & Second Battle of Manassas Loop Trail x Trouvaille Brewing Co.

Fairfax CCT - Oakmont to Gabrielson Garden (Rating: B)

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. This is an enjoyable 10 mile Hike with 450 feet of elevation gain along Section 7of the Fairfax Cross County Trail. We'll hike through the woodlands of Oakton. On the hike we'll pass horse paddocks and may even see a group of curious goats. This is one of my favorite sections of the Cross County Trail. Meet in the parking lot on the left upon entering Oakmont Recreation Center. Most of this hike will be along Difficult Run. We will hike to Gabrielson Garden Park., where we will stop for a brief snack before turning around and returning. Most of the hike is on trails, except for a short asphalt section and a short section along a neighborhood streets. **We hike at a pace of approximately 2.5 mph while moving. You must be experienced with hikes of this length and elevation gain.** Dogs are welcome on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicyhttps://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolic](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) Leader: Steve Frith cell 703-629-0174 Park Entry Fee: $0.00 Map for hike: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/connolly-cross-county-trail-lawyers-road-and-oak-marr-rec-center?sh=iypgzx&utm_medium=trail_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality

Difficult Run Loop (Rating: C)

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. **8.63 mile circuit hike with 456 feet of elevation gain.** **Description:** This beautiful hike starts out in **[Riverbend Park](https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend/hours)** and follows the **[Potomac Heritage trail](https://www.nps.gov/pohe/index.htm)**[ ](https://www.nps.gov/pohe/index.htm) to **[Great Falls Park](https://www.nps.gov/grfa/index.htm)** offering **spectacular views** of the **Potomac River** and the **Great Falls**. We will stop **briefly** at the **3 Great Falls Overlooks** for some amazing views of the **Falls** and **Mather’s Gorge.** From there we continue along the **Matildaville Trail** to the **Ridge Trail.** which leads to the **Difficult Run Trail.** **From Difficult Run Parking lot,** we cross **Route 193** and climb up **Old Carriage Road,** making a left on the **Ridge Trail** and then a right on the **Swamp Trail to Old Carriage Road** leading us back to the **Visitor Center.** From there we head back along the **Potomac River** and back to **Riverbend Park. (see [MAP](https://www.nps.gov/grfa/upload/GRFA-complete-map-508.pdf))** **Hike Pace**: Pace will be about **2.5 mph**. **Bring:** Adequate water/hydration, snacks/lunch, and sturdy hiking shoes since there are some rocky areas/tree roots on the River Trail. Hiking poles if you normally use them. There are no stream crossings. **Fee:** There is **no entrance fee** at Riverbend Park, but I will need to ***collect $2.00 from each hiker to cover the cost of group fees*** at Riverbend. for **groups of 12 or more.** I will get the **Group Permit** in advance. Small bills only please! **Dogs:** dogs are welcome on this hike in accordance with the [NVHC Dog Policy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy). **Great Falls Trail Map:** [https://www.nps.gov/grfa/upload/GRFA-complete-map-508.pdf](https://www.nps.gov/grfa/upload/GRFA-complete-map-508.pdf) **Where to Meet:** Meet in the parking lot across from the **[Riverbend Park Visitor's Center](https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend-park)** at 9 am to allow everyone to get signed in and ready to hike at 9:30 am. The back of my white Honda HRV will be up. **Coordinates** 39.01817, -77.24599 **[LINK](https://maps.app.goo.gl/cSsmHrmdGgV77YyY6)** **Address:** 8700-8814 Jeffery Rd, Great Falls, VA 22066 Any questions, please message me here or text me at **703 533 9231** Dawn K. Post Hike FellowShip: Optional (The Old Brogue)

Reston Lakes and Woodlands (Rating: C)

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. This is an enjoyable hike with beautiful lakes, wooded trails and even a snack/rest room break at a Starbucks. It is about an 8 mile hike with 423 feet of elevation gain around lakes and among the woodlands of Reston. We'll meet at the Walker Nature Center at 9:00 am and hike through the Glade Stream Valley and then along Lake Audubon and Lake Thoreau. The hike route is about 60% on paved paths with the remainder on dirt trails. Restrooms are available at the Walker Nature Center. We hike at a pace of approximately 2.5 mph while moving. You must be experienced with hikes of this length and elevation gain. **Park on Glade Road so the Nature Center parking lot can be kept open for the Center's pre-school activities and drop-offs.** Dogs are welcome on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicyhttps://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolic](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) Leader: Steve Frith cell 703-629-0174 Park Entry Fee: $0.00 Map for hike: [Lake Audubon-SteveF.jpg - Google Drive](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1SD2-qunELaftxCpo3uHLncNh2ODe-WBJ/view)

VMO: Black Forest Trail (43 miles)

I wanted to hike the Black Forest Trail in PA for a while, but I missed David O's Octoberfest trip last year and I can't make Emily's August madness trip, so what do I do? Post my own take on Black Forest Trail. I have to admit that I plagiarized the map from this online hike description: [Black Forest Trail Backpacking Guide — Into the Backcountry](https://intothebackcountryguides.com/trail-guides/black-forest-trail-backpacking-guide) We will do the loop slightly differently from other DCUL trips: 1\. Leave Saturday morning from Vienna metro\, drive to Slate Run PA and start from Slate Run trailhead\, coordinates: 41\.47138\, \-77\.50481\. 2\. Hike anywhere from 13 to 16 miles and camp along County Line Stream\. We will decide the hiking distance and specific campsite based on the time we arrive at the trailhead\. 3\. Sunday is a big hiking day\. We will cover around 20 miles \(maybe a bit less or more depending how far we get on Saturday\) and camp along Little Slate Run\. 4\. Monday we will hike the rest of the miles and drive home\. I am ranking this trip VMO because of the terrain difficulty and somewhat fluid itinerary, but I will allow strong members with established DCUL history. Caltopo: [Black Forest Trail - CalTopo](https://caltopo.com/m/TB440) === I’m just a co-participant on this trip, not a guide or an expert. I have no survival or medical training. By RSVPing to this trip or any other DCUL trip, you agree to these guidelines and to DCUL's waiver liability terms ([https://dculbackpacking.com/about/liability-waiver/](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 DCUL profile. 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.)