Calendar: Go Wild in Rock Creek Park, or Get out of Town

A friend of ours used to work at a cool wilderness education center up in New York called Hawk Circle. And the folks from Hawk Circle will be in Rock Creek Park for a family wilderness skills workshop on Saturday, April 3rd, from 12-5 pm. Ricardo will lead children, teens and adults in several activities useful in the wild, such as coal burning wood containers, making natural fiber ropes and string, hunting skills, outdoor cooking and more.  The cost is $10 per child, or $30 for the whole family, and all ages are welcome; children under 7 must be accompanied by an adult. For more info: (607) 264-3910, or emailing HawkCircleOffice@gmail.com.

Chimney rock by rpongsaj

We like to focus on activities around town in this blog, but there are several hikes within a reasonable driving distance this week that we thought we'd highlight. All offer carpools, so it's an opportunity to get out of town even if you don't have a car. As always, there are lots more activities on our calendar.

Catoctin: The Center Hiking Club is going to Catoctin Mountain Park in Thurmont, MD on Saturday (April 3). It's hilly up there -- the trip leader promises nice views from Chimney Rock and the Thurmont Vista Overlook on a 6 to 7 mile hike. Carpool leaves from Twinbrook Metro at 10:15. Leaders: Ellen A. (703-998-8617) and  Marcia S. (MKswan9013@aol.com).

High Knob: The Northern Virginia Hiking Club is going to Gambrill State Park on Sunday (April 4). It's a hike up about 1500 feet to the top of High Knob, with a total of 8 miles. Meet at Carderock Recreation Area at 8 AM. Contact the leader, Dean Simmons 410-531-3230(H) about carpool options.

Sky Meadows by jimski

Sky Meadows: This 6-7 mile hike with the Sierra Club includes part of the Appalachian Trail. Meet at 9 AM at the north parking lot of the Vienna Metro station at 9 AM. Leader:  Ray Abercrombie, 703/854-1792 (before 9 pm).

Check out our calendar or browse our park reviews for more  ideas. We'll see you out there!