What we’re about
Established - May 2024
http://novatrailblazers.com/
Trying to find hike-minded people? Look no further.
This group is for hiking and backpacking enthusiasts in their 20s to 40s, though we do accept people of all ages. Our group is largely informal, with events mostly consisting of backpacking trips with day hikes as schedules permit. New members are always welcome regardless of skill level.
If you think you might be interested but aren't quite sure, feel free to attend one of our occasional informal meetings/happy hours to meet some organizers and find out what we have scheduled.
INHERENT RISK: Organizers carefully plan events and check public sources for weather and safety. Conditions may change or reports may contain errors. Inherent natural hazards are associated with backcountry travel. Organizers do not accept any liability for accidents/injuries in connection with the activities published herein or on linked sites.
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Hiker Happy Hour (Unite For Parks) - The Crown and CrowThe Crown & Crow, Washington, DC
Special HHH - Unite for Parks
New to the group? Curious about who we are before committing to a weekend in the woods?
Come join us for a casual happy hour—no gear required. It’s a great way to meet your fellow trail enthusiasts, swap hiking stories, and learn more about how we’re building community on and off the trail.This month’s happy hour has a special twist: we’re also highlighting Unite for Parks, an initiative to support our National Park System and conserve/protect our public lands. Now more than ever, national parks need our support as they face increasing pressure from limitied funding, overcrowding, and shifting political priorities. We'll be sharing a few ways you can get involved—nothing formal, just good conversation over a drink. Learn more here: Get Involved
We’re meeting at The Crown & Crow (Logan Circle) at 7:00 PM. It’s a spacious underground bar with a speakeasy feel, and they’ve treated us well in the past. Look for the gold emblem of a crowned crow out front and head down the stairs.
Please update your RSVP if your plans change. Hope to see you there!
- Day Hike - Seneca Creek State Park (3.7 miles)Seneca Creek State Park, Gaithersburg, MD
We'll be walking the Lake Shore Trail (blue blaze).
$3 per MD resident
$5 per out-of-state residentThey accept state park passes
## Details
## Trail Facts
- Difficulty Level: moderate
- Length: 3.7 miles
- Duration: 3-4 hrs
- Elevation Gain: --
- Bear Canisters: Not Required
- Permits: Not Required
- Dogs: Allowed
- Parking: Seneca Creek State Park Boat Center
- Trailhead Coordinates: 39.144058, -77.250379
The park, comprised of 6,300 acres, extends along 14 scenic miles of Seneca Creek, as it winds its way to the Potomac River. The Clopper Day-Use Area contains many scenic areas, including the 90-acre Clopper Lake, surrounded by forests and fields. Picnicking, boat rentals, and trails are just some of its recreational opportunities. A restored 19th century cabin and a self-guided path interpret the history of the area. Over 50 miles of trails are open for hiking, horseback riding and bicycling which wind through a variety of habitat.
Trail Details:
We will meet at boat house on Saturday morning at 10 am and walk the Lake Shore Trail.CARPOOL: If you need a ride or can offer one, please coordinate in the event comments. Be a friend to the environment, save money, and make friends.
LIABILITY NOTICE:
Please remember that this group operates under the common adventurer model. We are a group of friends and volunteers organizing trips for fun and shared experience. Participants are expected to be familiar with best hiking practices and choose hikes that align with their physical abilities and experience. Organizers and members are not liable for any injuries, loss, or damage to persons or property arising from group activities. By attending this event, you agree to assume all risks associated with the activity.
For more information on the common adventurer model, please see Ron Watters' definition.
If you believe you may be lost during the hike, follow the advice of the US Forest Service.
See you on the trail! - Day Hike - Billy Goat Trail (4.6 Miles) + The Old Angler InnGreat Falls Tavern Visitor Center (Great Falls Park - MD side), Potomac, MD
A low-key classic - Billy Goat A.
Note: Meet up in front of the Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center (MD side)The Billy Goat Trail is a great little hike right outside the Beltway. Should be a quick hike with some great views. Afterwards, we can grab a drink and some food at The Old Anglers Inn, a restaurant with a huge beer garden patio out back - bring a sweater and we can sit outside.
## Trail Facts
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Length: 4.6 Miles
- Duration: 2-3 hrs
- Elevation Gain: 184 Feet
- Permits: Great Falls Parking Pass
- Parking: Great Falls Parking Lot (off MacArthur Blvd)
- Trailhead Coordinates: 39.001063, -77.247684
- AllTrails Map: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-june-5-2024-c215b44?u=i&sh=rak641
Trail Details:
Billy Goat Trail Section A is thought of as the harder of the three Billy Goat sections, but hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views of Mather Gorge and the Potomac River. Section A is a one-way trail with rugged terrain, including small rock scrambles. It is highly recommended to wear boots or hiking sneakers on this trail. We will loop back on the canal towpath for an easy walk back to the car.People often start this hike from the parking lot near Old Angler's Inn - However that lot is very small and typically fills up. I suggest parking in the Great Falls parking lot (entry fee required). I will park here and we can walk across the foot bridge to the trailhead.
GENERAL FEE: Great Falls charges a fee to enter - $10 on foot or $20 for a vehicle. You can also use the annual "America The Beautiful" pass.
LIABILITY NOTICE:
Please remember that this group operates under the common adventurer model. We are a group of friends and volunteers organizing trips for fun and shared experience. Participants are expected to be familiar with best hiking practices and choose hikes that align with their physical abilities and experience. Organizers and members are not liable for any injuries, loss, or damage to persons or property arising from group activities. By attending this event, you agree to assume all risks associated with the activity.For more information on the common adventurer model, please see Ron Watters' definition.
If you believe you may be lost during the hike, follow the advice of the US Forest Service.
See you on the trail!
