(Short Cut to the Schedule)

(Download an Adobe Acrobat version of the schedule.)

General Hiking Information (must reading for 'newbies')

MEMBERSHIP: Everyone interested in hiking is welcome. Membership dues per calendar year are $5.00 for individuals and $7.00 for families. Nonmembers are invited but are assessed $2.00 per day except for guest hike leaders. All persons, regardless of age, must pay transportation costs.

RESERVATIONS: Reservations are not necessary unless the listing is preceded by a telephone symbol. Reservation trips are by private automobiles. Hikers needing transportation and drivers having room for riders should call the person taking reservations. Please call as early as possible before the trip and only between 10:00 a.m. and 9:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted. If you have made a reservation and must cancel, please notify the leader.

COSTS: The cost for an event includes a car pool fee (where applicable) paid to the drivers and a nonmember fee collected by the leader for the club. Unless otherwise noted, entrance fees and/or tolls are considered in determining the amount of the car pool fee and are paid by the drivers. For hikes that require entrance to Skyline Drive, the entrance fee is not part of the car pool fee; for each car it is shared by all passengers and the driver. In some cases, there will be no Skyline Drive entrance fee for a car that presents a park pass at the gate. Some events may offer special activities that call for additional costs. All the cost requirements of an event are identified in the schedule.

CHANGES: Normally, hikes will run as scheduled. Uncontrollable circumstances, such as bad weather or a shortage of cars, may result in a trip alteration or cancellation.

WHAT TO BRING AND WEAR: When the trip begins before noon, bring enough food and liquid for a full day's outing. It is a good idea to bring something to drink even on short hikes. Wear sensible clothing and sturdy shoes. Hiking boots are recommended on mountain hikes. Dress in layers for cold or wet weather.

RULES: Hikes are informal, but always follow the leader. Pay attention to any instructions he or she gives before or during the hike. Pets are not allowed on club outings.

NOTICE: YOU HIKE AT YOUR OWN RISK. YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY AND MUST ASSUME ALL RISKS AND LIABILITIES ON ALL OUTINGS WITH THE CENTER HIKING CLUB. ITS LEADERS, OFFICERS, AND REPRESENTATIVES SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY INJURIES, LOSS, OR DAMAGE TO PERSONS AND/OR PROPERTIES, DIRECT OR CONSEQUENTIAL, ARISING OUT OF ANY TRIP AND/OR ACTIVITY OF THE CENTER HIKING CLUB. AS UNPAID VOLUNTEERS, TRIP LEADERS SHOULD NOT BE RELIED UPON TO HAVE ANY SPECIAL SKILLS OR TRAINING.

ABBREVIATIONS:    AT = Appalachian Trail
                                 SNP = Shenandoah National Park
                             GWNF = George Washington National Forest

Winter 2011-2012 Schedule

Rev (C) 01/20/2012

WED, NOV 9 WEDNESDAY CITY EXPLORATIONS: Join us for explorations of neighborhoods around the Braddock Road metro station. Pace is about two miles per hour for about 90 minutes. Expect occasional breaks for water and views. Bring water and a cooperative spirit. Cost: $2 for nonmembers. Meet at 6:50 p.m. at Braddock Road Metro by the newspaper racks. We leave promptly at 7:00 p.m. Leader: Michael S. (703) 677-7777 (before 9:00 p.m.).

FRI-SUN, NOV 11-13 CAMPING/CANOEING IN DELMARVA: Paddle small streams in Delmarva -- if you have your own equipment. Camp in a state park. Members only. For details contact the leader: Ed. E. edevange@localnet.com.

SAT, NOV 12 BUZZARD ROCK, OUT AND BACK: An 8-mile moderate hike in GWNF. We’ll hike to Shawl Gap and return. Expect great views of the valley and river -- the leaves will be down. Cost: $10 (+$2 for nonmembers). Meet at 9:00 a.m. at Vienna Metro. Leader: Russ S. (703) 860-6735.

SUN, NOV 13 HAZEL RIVER: A moderate-to-strenuous 11-mile hike along Hazel River. Highlights include views from the White Rocks trails, a visit to Cave Falls and cabins in Broad Hollow. Cost: $10 (+$2 for nonmembers). Meet at 9:00 a.m. at Vienna Metro. Leaders: Duncan T. and Nora P. (703) 527-2349.

THU, NOV 17 HIKE SCHEDULE MAILING: The few, the proud, the mailers -- the members of the Center Hiking Club pizza eating team make sure you get your schedule as they savor their slices. For meeting time and place call Duncan T. (703) 527-2349.

FRI-SUN, NOV 18-20 ANNUAL CHINCOTEAGUE CAMP-OUT: Members only. Sand, surf, camp, do easy hikes and see wild ponies. For details and reservations contact the leaders: Jan Z. (301) 468-1896 and Ed E. edevange@localnet.com.

SAT, NOV 19 OVERALL RUN: A strenuous 8-mile hike starting at Thomson Hollow Road. We'll hike up to a lunch spot that overlooks Overall Run Falls (the highest falls in the SNP) and offers wonderful views out to the valley. About a mile from the end, there is a beautiful cluster of two or three adjoining swimming holes, worth, at a minimum, a dip of the feet. Cost: $9 (+$2 for nonmembers). Meet at 9.00 a.m. at Vienna Metro (north side). Leader: Beryl G. (703)707-9702.

SUN, NOV 20 BIG DEVILS STAIRS: We'll hike down Big Devils StairsTrail and bushwhack back up – 7 miles total. Scenery, views, a cascading stream -- what more could you want? Cost $12 plus park-entrance fee (+$2 for nonmembers). Meet at 9:00 a.m. at Vienna Metro. Leader: Buz G. (703) 765-0833, BuzGroshong@verizon.net.

WED, NOV 23 WEDNESDAY CITY EXPLORATIONS: Join us for explorations of neighborhoods around the Braddock Road metro station. Pace is about two miles per hour for about 90 minutes. Expect occasional breaks for water and views. Bring water and a cooperative spirit. Cost: $2 for nonmembers. Meet at 6:50 p.m. at Braddock Road Metro by the newspaper racks. We leave promptly at 7:00 p.m. Leader: Michael S. (703) 677-7777 (before 9:00 p.m.).

THU, NOV 24 SKY MEADOWS – APPALACHIAN TRAIL: A moderate 6-mile hike starting in Sky Meadows State Park, climbing up to the AT, and continuing along the AT to a shelter for lunch. Optional Thanksgiving dinner afterwards in Manassas. Cost: $8 (+$2 for nonmembers). Meet at 10:00 a.m. at Vienna Metro (north side). Leader: Stu S. (703) 517-3490.

SAT, NOV 26 BUZZARD ROCK -- ELIZABETH FURNACE: Dare to experience a 6.5-mile adventure in the Massanutten Mountains that offers splendid views from both sides of the ridge. The terrain is generally moderate, but there are some steep uphill (and downhill) sections. There will be a dinner option after the hike. Cost: $8 (+$2 for nonmembers). Meet at 9:00 a.m. at Vienna Metro. Leaders: Ellen A. (703) 998-8617 and Jim H. deucepoints@gmail.com.

SUN, NOV 27 ROCK CREEK PARK: Work off that Thanksgiving dinner during this 10-12 mile scenic hike along the Valley and Western Ridge Trails. Along the way, we will encounter the Klingle Mansion, unusual bridges, streams and tree-lined trails. Those of you who did not have a second helping of dessert may take the cutoffs from the route to shorten the hike. Expected time of completion is 4:00 p.m. Meet at 10:00 a.m. at Cleveland Park Metro. Cost: $2 for nonmembers. Leader: Debbie K. (301) 773-7527.

TUE, NOV 29 OLD TOWN ALEXANDRIA STROLL: An easy 2-4 miles through business and residential areas and cemeteries in Old Town Alexandria. Return by 9:00 p.m. Possible snack stop. Cost: $2 for nonmembers. Meet at 6:45 p.m. at King Street Metro (south side--by the Kiss & Ride, at original entrance). Leader: Rana H. (703) 532-2031.

SAT, DEC 3 BEAR CHURCH ROCK: An 8-mile moderate-to-strenuous hike to remote Bear Church Rock via the Staunton River and Jones Mountain Trails. The views of central SNP are excellent. Cost: $11 (+$2 for nonmembers). Meet at 9:00 a.m. at Vienna Metro (north side). Leader: Stu S. (703) 517 3490.

SUN, DEC 4 OLD RAG MOUNTAIN: A must-do local classic. Nine miles of hiking and rock scrambling. Strenuous. Great views at the top of Old Rag Mountain. Cost: $9 plus park-entrance fee (+$2 for nonmembers). Meet at 9:00 a.m. at Vienna Metro. Leader: Buz G. (703) 765-0833 (BuzGroshong@verizon.net).

SAT, DEC 10 THE MALL AND THE NATIONAL AND CAPITOL CHRISTMAS TREES: An easy 7 miles (approximately) at a reasonable pace. We'll walk by the Washington Monument, the WWII Memorial, the new Martin Luther King Memorial, the DC War Memorial, the Korean War Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial and the Vietnam War Memorial. We’ll then continue to the Ellipse to bathe in the lights of the National Christmas tree and warm our “bods” by the Yule logs. There will be a break at the cafe area of National Gallery Sculpture Garden. After that, we'll pass by the art galleries and Capitol reflecting pool to the Capitol Christmas tree, where we'll linger awhile. Then we’ll walk to the front of the Capitol, passing the Supreme Court and Library of Congress. For those inclined, we’ll stop at the Dubliner Pub near Union Station for refreshments or dinner (moderate prices). Those not inclined may take their leave and head back to Smithsonian Metro or use Union Station metro. Cost: $2 for nonmembers. Meet at 1:00 p.m. at Smithsonian Metro, mall side. Leader: Beryl G. (202) 333-1807.

SUN, DEC 11 EMBASSY ROW: An easy 3-mile hike down Massachusetts Avenue's 'Embassy Row', then through the Woodley neighborhood and, finally, to the Woodley Park-Zoo Metro station. Brief stops along the way for commentary. Lunch optional. Cost: $2 for nonmembers. Meet at 10:00 a.m. at Dupont Circle Metro, Q Street entrance (exit at 20th & Q Sts). Leaders: Bill D. and Ann F. (301) 656-1798.

TUE, DEC 13 VIENNA STROLL: An easy 2-to-4 miles through business and residential areas in Vienna. Return by 9:00 p.m. Possible snack stop. Cost: $2 for nonmembers. Meet at 7:00 p.m. at Vienna Metro (north side), near the exit from the covered walkway. Note: You must have a SmarTrip Card to use a Metro parking lot. Leader: Rana H. (703) 532-2031.

SAT, DEC 17 SKYLAND TO CRESCENT ROCK SNP: A moderate 8-mile hike on trails near Skyland Lodge. Views from Stony Man Mountain, Millers Head and Crescent Rock. Optional dinner afterwards. Cost: $12 plus park-entrance fee (+$2 for nonmembers). There will be no park-entrance fee for a car that presents a park pass at the gate. Meet at 9:00 a.m. at Vienna Metro (north side). Leader: Stu S. (703) 517-3490.

SAT, DEC 17 22ND ANNUAL HOLIDAY LIGHTS HIKE: A three-part event -- an easy 5-mile hike on the Fredericksburg Battlefield, then dinner at Sammy T's and, finally, a 2-to-4 mile walk through Fredericksburg. Cost: $10. Meet at 11:00 a.m. at Huntington Metro (Huntington Ave. entrance). Leader: Mike M. (202) 829-7749.

SUN, DEC 18 BULL RUN MOUNTAIN I: A moderate 8-mile hike in this land conservancy along I-66. Highlights include a great view, ruins and streams. Cost: $3 (+$2 for nonmembers). Meet at 9:00 a.m. at Vienna Metro. Leader: Russ S. (703) 860-6735.

SUN, DEC 18 GREAT FALLS, VIRGINIA: Join us for this 9-mile hike at a moderate pace (2-2.5 mph) with a climb of about 500 ft. Bring a cooperative spirit, lunch and water; dress for the weather. Cost: $3:00 plus park-entrance fee (+$2 for nonmembers). Meet at 10:00 a.m. at East Falls Church Metro or at 10:40 a.m. at the Visitors Center (outside lower level near restrooms). Leader: Michael S. (703) 677-7777 (before 9:00 p.m.).

TUE, DEC 20 OLD TOWN ALEXANDRIA STROLL: An easy 2-to-4 miles through business and residential areas and cemeteries in Old Town Alexandria. Return by 9:00 p.m. Possible snack stop. Cost: $2 for nonmembers. Meet at 6:45 p.m. at King Street Metro (inside, near the bike racks -- south entrance, where the Kiss & Ride is located). Leader: Rana H. (703) 532-2031.

SAT, DEC 24 LAKE FRANK AND LAKE NEEDWOOD: An easy-to-moderate 9-mile, figure 8 hike around these two lakes in upper Rock Creek Park. Cost: $2 (+$2 for nonmembers). Meet at 9:15 a.m. at Twinbrook Metro (Rockville Pike side). Leader: Jan Z. (301) 468 1896.

SUN, DEC 25 CHRISTMAS HIKE: Hike 8 easy-to-moderate miles through Glover Archbold Park, along the C&O Canal and through Battery Kemble Park. Return via Rosslyn Metro. Optional dinner stop in Rosslyn. Cost: return metro fare (+$2 for nonmembers). Meet at 11:00 a.m. at Tenleytown Metro (west side). Leader: Stu S. (703) 517-3490.

SAT, DEC 31 BETHESDA TO ROSSLYN: An easy-to-moderate 8-mile hike on the Capital Crescent Trail. Optional dinner stop in Rosslyn. Cost: return metro fare (+$2 for nonmembers). Meet at 1:00 p.m. at Bethesda Metro. Leader: Stu S. (703) 517-3490.

SUN, JAN 1 SUGARLOAF MOUNTAIN: Celebrate the New Year with this beautiful 7-to-8 mile moderately paced hike on a lone mountain in Montgomery County. There is an 800 foot elevation gain, and parts of the trail are rocky. But the views of the Monocacy Valley and rolling farm land make the journey worth the effort. Cost: $3 (+$2 for nonmembers). Meet at 10:00 a.m. at Twinbrook Metro. Leaders: Debbie K (301) 773-7527 and Ron W. (703) 931-2526.

SAT, JAN 7 GREAT FALLS, MARYLAND GOLD MINE HIKE: Hike an easy-to-moderate 8 miles through an historic area of Montgomery County; visit the Great Falls of the Potomac, Maryland side. Cost: $2 (+$2 for nonmembers). Meet at 9:15 a.m. at Twinbrook Metro (Rockville Pike side). Leader: Jan Z. (301) 468 1896.

SUN, JAN 8 GREAT FALLS AND RIVERBEND PARKS: A scenic 11-mile moderate hike in Great Falls Park along Difficult Run and the Potomac River to Riverbend Park. Return in reverse direction. Cost: $2 (+$2 for nonmembers). Meet at 9:30 am at East Falls Church Metro or 10:00 a.m. at the Great Falls Visitor Center. Leaders: Duncan T. and Nora P. (703) 527-2349.

SAT, JAN 8 BAKERY HIKE: Come out of the cold and drop into Old Towne Alexandria for a bakery hike. Walk four easy miles through the streets of Old Towne. Duck into bakeries and coffee shops for a hot cup of coffee or tea and a sweet treat. Cost: $2 for nonmembers. Meet at King Street Metro at 1:00 p.m. Leader: Lenny G. (703) 276.0596. (Hike had been cancelled, now re-instated)

SUN, JAN 8 HIKE LEADERS SOCIAL: Meet at 6:30 p.m. at Jim’s place to plan the spring schedule. Bring a dish or drinks to share and your hikes. New leaders and sweeps are welcome. For directions, call or e-mail Jim H. (703) 266-2209 (deucepoints@gmail.com).

SAT, JAN 14 GAMBRILL STATE PARK: A moderate 7-mile hike near Frederick, Md. with views and one long uphill section. Optional early dinner afterward. Cost: $6 (+$2 for nonmembers). Meet at 11:00 a.m. at Twinbrook Metro (Rockville Pike side). Leaders: Ron W. (703) 931-2526 and Debbie K. (301) 773-7527.

SUN, JAN 15 WHITE OAK CANYON -- CEDAR RUN: Maybe this year the falls will be frozen. A strenuous 8-mile hike that goes up White Oak Canyon and returns down Cedar Run. Cost: $9 plus park-entrance fee (+$2 for nonmembers). Meet at 9:00 a.m. at Vienna Metro. Leader: Buz G. (703) 765-0833 (BuzGroshong@verizon.net).

SAT, JAN 21 SNOW-TUBING AT WHITETAIL: Enjoy an afternoon of snow tubing in the beautiful, scenic hills surrounding Whitetail Ski resort in nearby Pennsylvania. Snow tubes are provided. Ride to the top on a moving carpet lift and enjoy the ride down on 10 groomed lanes. Snow tubing is fun and safe for all ages. After your runs, head inside for a hot drink. Wear warm and snow resistant clothes. Don't forget to wear gloves (or mittens). Snack bar on site. Lunch before tubing at Clear Springs Diner. Cost: $26.00 for tubing and $10 for the carpool (+$2 for nonmembers). Meet at 9:30 a.m. at Twinbrook Metro (Rockville Pike side). Leaders: Gail N. (301) 572-6951 and Henri G. (301) 294-0132. Cancelled due to a forecast of sleet/snow/ rain and generally yucky weather tomorrow.

SAT, JAN 21 BRUNCH AND HIKE: Start with brunch at Booeymonger Restaurant. Then hike 8 easy-to-moderate miles through Glover Archbold and Battery Kemble Parks and along the C&O towpath. Stop in Georgetown and return via Rosslyn Metro. Cost: return metro fare (+$2 for nonmembers). Meet at 11:00 a.m. at Friendship Heights Metro (Western Ave/Military Road side). Leave restaurant at 12:15 p.m. sharp. Leader: Stu S. (703) 517-3490.

SUN, JAN 22 GREAT FALLS, VIRGINIA: Join us for this 9-mile hike at a moderate pace (2-2.5 mph) with a climb of about 500 ft. Bring a cooperative spirit, lunch and water; dress for the weather. Meet at 10 a.m. at East Falls Church Metro or at 10:40 a.m. at the Visitors Center (outside lower level near restrooms). Cost: $3 plus park-entrance fee (+$2 for nonmembers). Leader: Michael S. (703) 677-7777 (before 9:00 p.m.)

SAT, JAN 28 SHADY GROVE TO ROCKVILLE: We’ll walk one way from the meeting point to Rockville -- through Needwood Park if trail conditions are favorable or through residential streets otherwise. The distance will fall within 4 to 8 miles, depending upon weather and trail conditions. No need to pack a lunch; we'll have lunch in Rockville at La Tosca or at the Thai restaurant next to the library. Bring water, lunch money and return metro fare. Cost: $2 for nonmembers. Meet at 10:00 a.m. at Shady Grove Metro, NE side. Leader: Margaret C. (301) 977-8988 (evenings).

SUN, JAN 29 HERITAGE TRAIL-- U STREET CORRIDOR: A 4-to-5 mile walk to historical sites in the U Street area and to nearby interesting places. Dinner stop at a U Sreet restaurant or at Ben’s Chili Bowl, if space is available. For an official guide, go to culturaltourismdc.org. Cost: $2 for nonmembers. Meet at 1:00 p.m. at U Street/African-American Civil War Memorial/Cardozo Metro (Green/Yellow Lines), 13th Street exit (13th & U Streets). Leader: Mike M. (202) 829-7749.

SAT, FEB 4 SKY MEADOWS: A moderate 10-mile hike starting in Sky Meadows State Park. The high point is a climb up to the AT for views. Cost: $8 (+$2 for nonmembers). Meet at 10:30 a.m. at Vienna Metro (north side). Leader: Stu S. (703) 517-3490.

SUN, FEB 5 BULL RUN MOUNTAIN II: A moderate 8-mile hike in this land conservancy along I-66. Highlights include a great view, ruins and streams. Cost: $3 (+$2 for nonmembers). Meet at 9:00 a.m. at Vienna Metro. Leader: Russ S. (703) 860-6735.

SAT, FEB 11 SUGARLOAF SNP: Enjoy this slow-paced ideal winter hike--not very long (5 miles), not very difficult (moderate with easy sections), and beautiful in the snow (when there is any). The landscape and views are first rate. Optional dinner afterward. Meet at 9:00 a.m. at Vienna Metro (north side). Cost $10 plus park-entrance fee (+$2 for nonmembers). Leaders: Gail N. (301) 572-6951 and Ellen A. (703) 998-8617.

SUN, FEB 12 PATAPSCO STATE PARK (AVALON AREA): Walk 11 hilly miles along the Patapsco River, two pretty streams, several view points, ruins and a suspension bridge. This is a moderate-to-strenuous hike. Cost: $5 (+$2 for nonmembers). Meet at 9:30 a.m. at Forest Glen Metro. Leaders: Duncan T. and Nora P. (703) 527-2349.

SAT, FEB 18 THE TROLLEY TRAIL TRAVERSING TRAUMA: An easy 6 miles along the old abandoned trolley tract between Rockville and Bethesda that has been converted to a hiker/biker trail. Half the hike will be through surrounding neighborhoods. No lunch stop. Cost $2 for nonmembers. Meet 9:15 a.m. at Grosvenor Metro. Leader: Jan Z. (301) 468-1896.

SUN, FEB 19 ARLINGTON TRAILS: Explore Lubber Run, Barcroft and Jennie Dean Parks during this 5-to-6 mile stroll through Arlington. Highlights include quiet woods and a long walk along Four Mile Run. Optional lunch or snack in Shirlington or at Bob and Edith's along Columbia Pike. Cost: $1 (+$2 for nonmembers). Meet at 11:00 a.m. at Ballston Metro. Leader: Debbie K (301) 773-7527.

THU, FEB 23 HIKE SCHEDULE MAILING: The few, the proud, the mailers: the members of Center Hiking Club pizza eating team make sure you get your schedule as they savor their slices. For meeting place and time call Duncan T. (703) 527 2349.

SAT, FEB 25 EXPLORATION OF HYATTSVILLE: We’ll walk about 6 miles and explore old haunts of the leader’s childhood and the new Arts District. No need to pack a lunch; we’ll stop at a nearby restaurant. Bring water, lunch money and adequate gear. Cost: $2 for nonmembers. Meet at 10:00 a.m. at West Hyattsville Metro, on the Green line, inside or just outside the one and only entrance, depending upon the weather. Leader: Margaret C. (301) 977-8988 (evenings).

SAT, FEB 25 SNOW-TUBING AT WHITETAIL: Enjoy an afternoon of snow tubing in the beautiful, scenic hills surrounding Whitetail Ski resort in nearby Pennsylvania. Snow tubes are provided. Ride to the top on a moving carpet lift and enjoy the ride down on 10 groomed lanes. Snow tubing is fun and safe for all ages. After your runs, head inside for a hot drink. Optional sleep-over Saturday night at John & Judy's house in a nearby area. Wear warm and snow-resistant clothes. Don't forget to wear gloves (or mittens). Snack bar on site. Lunch before tubing at Clear Springs Diner. Cost: $26.00 for tubing and $10 for the carpool (+$2 for nonmembers). Meet at 9:30 a.m. at Twinbrook Metro (Rockville Pike side). Leaders: John P. ( 304) 754-7919 (speleo1@aol.com) and Mike S. (301) 294-0132 (Mikkes@mikkes.us).

SUN, FEB 26 ROBERTSON MTN -- CORBIN HOLLOW: A strenuous 9-mile hike to the top of Robertson Mountain. Great views. Descend Corbin Hollow and view relics of the past. Cost: $9 plus park-entrance fee (+$2 for nonmembers). Meet at 9:00 a.m. at Vienna Metro. Leader: Buz G. (703) 765-0833 (BuzGroshong@verizon.net).

SUN, FEB 26 GREAT FALLS, VIRGINIA: Join us for this 9-mile hike at a moderate pace (2-2.5 mph) with a climb of about 500 ft. Bring a cooperative spirit, lunch and water; dress for the weather. Cost: $3 plus park-entrance fee (+$2 for nonmembers). Meet at 10:00 a.m. at East Falls Church Metro or at 10:40 a.m. at the Visitors Center (outside lower level near restrooms). Leader: Michael S. (703) 677-7777 (before 9:00 p.m.).

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