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Outdoor activities groups near Columbia, MD

Silver Spring Outdoors

Silver Spring, MD

Silver Spring Outdoors
This meetup is for people in the Silver Spring area who enjoy being outdoors and want to meet and socialize with other area residents. We plan outdoor activities of short duration (typically <3 hours) and within an hour drive of Silver Spring. While the group may host any outdoor activity most of our events involve walking or hiking about four miles. We often walk on the stream valley trails that form a network in and around Silver Spring. In the winter, weeknight walks are more often in neighborhoods where there are streetlights. Members are encouraged to suggest and organize outdoor events. It is helpful if you can post a photo of yourself on your profile (even better if it is outdoors). Dues for this meet-up are $5 per year. Any member who hosts a meet-up event will automatically be exempt from dues for the calendar year. New members have a free trial of 2 months before paying dues. Members who are inactive for more than two months and have not paid dues may be dropped. Dues are paid in cash to the organizer to avoid processing fees which are high. The dues go to pay the Meetup fee for hosting the website which is currently $209.78 per year. Some rules/guidelines: Anyone over 18 can join. Children are welcome as a guest of a member as long as they are supervised and can keep up with the described activity. Dogs are welcome as long as they are friendly, leashed, you pick up after them and they are allowed in the area where we will be. If you have any questions about an event after reading the description, please message the event organizer privately or post a comment. No Show policy: You are a no show if you have signed up to attend an event (RSVP'd yes) and do not attend. If you change your RSVP at the last minute and give no reason that will be counted as a no show. If a member shows a pattern of signing up for events then not attending they may be dropped from the group since their RSVPs are preventing others from participating. In most cases members will be dropped from the group after two no shows.
2021 members · Private

Washington Women Outdoors

Washington, DC

Washington Women Outdoors

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.

4791 members · Public

Patapsco Hikers

Ellicott City, MD

Patapsco Hikers

The Patapsco Hikers has moderate hikes most Thursdays centered in Howard, Baltimore, and Carroll counties. Most hikes are 7-10 miles in length and involve 500 – 1500 feet of climb at a pace of 2.5 – 3 mph. We also have occasional, easier (five miles or so, less than 800 feet of climb) hikes on Mondays.   

Upcoming hikes are posted on the internet on Sunday or Monday for the following Thursday, weather permitting. We typically start at 9:30 sharp and end around 1 PM or so with an optional lunch at a modest nearby venue or trailside. 

Note that the hike description gives the estimated length and cumulative climb of the hike along with some descriptive elements (rocky, rooty, muddy, etc).  Please judge carefully if this hike will be  a pleasant experience for you (we want to come back) or an unpleasant struggle that will kill your enthusiasm for hiking.

Hikes are limited to 10 attendees. “Yes” RSVP’s  are required for each hike. We ask you to donate $1 per hike to pay Meetup fees but no one will be turned away if they choose not to donate. 

Well-mannered dogs are permitted but only with prior approval from the group organizer.

Please note that I do not answer my phone unless I know who's calling.  You can send me a message through the Meetup website.

WARNING  Patapsco Hikers (PH) takes a common-sense approach to hiking/walking. We encourage participants use their best judgement and err on the side of caution when participating with the group. This is an outdoor activity and mishaps do occur. 

By registering for any hike, you agree to the following waiver of liability:

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“I am aware of the risks inherent in outdoor activities. Therefore, I will be responsible for my own well-being while participating in the activities of the Patapsco Hikers, and while traveling to and from these activities. I agree that the Patapsco Hikers Meetup Group, its officers, representatives, other participants and trip leaders are not liable individually or collectively for any injury, disease, sickness, loss, or damage to my person or property, direct or consequential, arising out of the activities of the Group. Neither I nor anyone in my household is currently in quarantine, is awaiting the results of a corona-virus test, or has a fever, or any flu-like symptoms.”
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Hike with us; it’s good for your heart and good for your soul. Hike more and you'll worry less.

3368 members · Public

The Fearless and Fabulous

Columbia, MD

The Fearless and Fabulous
Fearless, fierce and fabulous females fueled by passion seeking broader horizons, empowerment, strong relationships, health and healing, and social and political engagement to bring personal growth to unchartered heights all in the name of fun social, physical and entertaining activities. We created this group exclusively for women looking to explore depths of their personalities in cultivating new hobbies and uncovering passions to try new activities and step outside comfort zones all while creating solid friendships built on mutual respect and support. There will be a little bit of everything in this group from outdoor activities like hiking, biking, kayaking, festivals, travel to indoorsy stuff like painting, yoga, trying new restaurants, book clubs, movie nights, volunteering within the community (food/toy drives, soup kitchens, etc.), canvassing, political campaigns, brunch clubs to old fashioned tried and true potlucks and dancing! There will be dancing. We hope you come here looking for a fun night out but end up finding a lifetime’s worth of so much more. Please make suggestions. This is your group and it will be what you make it. Check out our official group instagram page @thefearlessandfabulous and follow our hashtag #thefearlessandfabulous . ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• With that being said, we do have some ground rules to enforce. Meetup events take a lot of time to plan and execute and we want to be clear that joining the group means abiding by the rules and committing to joining in events as time allows. 1.) Treat all members with respect. We will be engaging in some discussions with political context and while debates/lively discussions are encouraged, disrespectful behaviors/drama will not be tolerated. 2.) Join to be present and attend events. There are no sidelines in this meetup. We are shooting for quality members not quantity. Be prepared to join, attend, plan and lead activities as well. The group’s impact and success is dependent on your action. Members inactive for six months will be removed. 3.) No Show Policy: Accumulating (2) no-shows within a six month timeframe will result in removal from the group. What is a no-show? Changing your RSVP to ‘no’ within 24HRs of the RSVPs closing and/or simply not showing up to an event. 4.) Habitual RSVPers that always cancel will not be tolerated. Please RSVP to events you want to attend and follow through. This is a very noticeable pattern and unfortunately takes opportunities away from other members. 5.) Communication is key. If you cannot make events, let hosts know in advance. We understand things happen but if a pattern emerges, you may be removed from the group. 6.) Where payments are concerned for group events: If you pay for an event and cancel, if we've paid in advance we may not be able to work out a refund for you. If you pre-pay for a group outing and the establishment cancels the event and the company doesnt offer us a refund, we will not be able to offer refunds. Please make sure to understand that if booking is required in advance, refunds may not be possible. 7.) Removal from the group will be based on no shows, rude behavior, and/or inactive member status.
178 members · Private

Maryland Dads Camping with kids

Ellicott City, MD

Maryland Dads Camping with kids
Are you a dad with elementary school-aged kids who yearn for the great outdoors and unforgettable bonding experiences? Look no further! Welcome to the "Maryland Camping Dads," a community of adventurous fathers and their young ones who share a passion for exploring the natural beauty of Maryland State Parks through exciting camping trips. Our group was created to foster lifelong memories and strong connections between dads and their elementary school-aged children while immersing ourselves in the stunning landscapes and recreational opportunities of Maryland's State Parks. Whether you're an experienced outdoorsman or new to camping, our group offers a supportive and inclusive environment for everyone. What We Offer: Family-Friendly Camping: We organize camping trips to various Maryland State Parks, each chosen for its unique charm, scenic beauty, and child-friendly facilities. Educational Adventures: Our trips provide excellent learning opportunities for kids as they engage with nature, explore wildlife, and uncover the wonders of the great outdoors. Team-Building: Camping is all about teamwork and cooperation. Our group activities and challenges encourage both dads and kids to collaborate, learn new skills, and build lifelong bonds. Expertise and Support: Whether you're a seasoned camper or just starting, you'll find a wealth of knowledge and support within our community. Share tips, advice, and stories with fellow members. Memorable Experiences: From roasting marshmallows over a campfire to stargazing under the clear Maryland skies, we create experiences that families will cherish forever. Why Join: Quality Time: Create lasting memories with your children as you explore the beautiful outdoors together. Community: Connect with like-minded dads and kids who share your enthusiasm for camping and adventure. Learning: Introduce your kids to the wonders of nature and teach them valuable life skills. Safe and Inclusive: We prioritize safety and ensure that all activities are inclusive and family-friendly. Fun: Camping is a fantastic way to have fun, relax, and enjoy quality time with your children. If you're ready to embark on exciting camping trips with your elementary school-aged kids and meet other dads who share your enthusiasm, join "Maryland Camping Dads" today! Adventure, nature, and unforgettable moments await.
20 members · Private

Howard County Divorce Support for Women

Columbia, MD

Howard County Divorce Support for Women
Are you going through a challenging divorce? Do you wish you had a reliable network of support to help you through the tough times? If so, this group may be for you! The goals of this group are: to provide and receive support; have fun and develop meaningful relationships with other women after separation and divorce. As a Life Coach and as a Conflict Resolution Mediator, I have a great deal of experience helping parties to decouple and co-parent effectively in the aftermath of a relationship. Additionally, given that I am recently divorced myself, I understand the importance of having others who share similar experiences and who can provide a level of support while renewing, reclaiming and rebuilding one's life after divorce. Although the group name says Howard County, please feel free to request membership if you are from a surrounding area. Group activities will consist of virtual meetings held bi-weekly on Thursdays and in-person activities such as: taking walks/hikes, getting together for happy hour, meals and traveling to local venues for festivals, outdoor concerts, etc. To join, please include a current photo and be prepared to attend at least one meeting/activity per month. Inactive members will be removed from the group; however, feel free to resubmit for membership once your availability to participate changes. Our first virtual meeting will be held on Thursday, 08/01 from 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm and every other Thursday thereafter. To attend the meeting, please be sure to RSVP. I hope to see you soon! Joy
55 members · Private