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Upcoming & Past GO Events (All Chapters)

  • PS - Monthly Membership Meeting

    • Tue, June 25, 2019
    • 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM
    • 1301 North Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA
    • 20
    • 10 registrants
    Register

    6:30 - 7:45 pm   Core Group Meeting (Room 3)
    7:45 - 8:00 pm   Social Period
    8:00 - 9:00 pm   Program: No speaker this month. This will be free time to talk with Core Group Members about upcoming events and topics of your interest.

    Concurrent with the meeting we will be distributing GOPS T-shirt and Hat orders in Room 2. T-shirts and hats will also be available for purchase, as long as supplies last. We'd like the help of 2-3 volunteers from 6pm to 9pm to help distribute orders and sell merchandise. Please reply to Info-PS@greatoutdoors.com if you are able to volunteer.

    All members and non-members are welcome to attend all meetings. Please click on the "Register" button to let us know you plan on attending this meeting.

    We normally meet at The Center on the 4th Tuesday of each month for our Core Group and General Membership Meetings. .

    The Center is located at 1301 North Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA. It is on the same side of Palm Canyon as Denny's restaurant, on the up-canyon side. Meeting room is on the Third Floor.  Click here for Google map directions.


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  • SBVC - Movie Night - "My Own Private Idaho"

    • Fri, June 28, 2019
    • 6:30 PM
    • John & Robert's "Saloon" in Santa Barbara
    Register



    June is "Shakespeare in the Saloon"

    The Great Outdoors Gay-Themed Film and Discussion Night presents...


    My Own Private Idaho

    Based loosely on William Shakespeare's Henry IV Part 1, Henry IV Part 2, and Henry V, director Gus Van Sant's My Own Private Idaho follows two young street hustler friends, Mike and Scott, on a quest from Portland to first Idaho and then Italy, and back to Portland in search of Mike's mother. 

    Through the course of their very personal journey narcoleptic Mike (River Phoenix) and Scott (Keanu Reeves), the renegade son of the wealthy mayor of Portland, discover much about themselves and each other.  And the audience makes one of the most amazing discoveries of all: Keanu Reeves actually can act.

    My Own Private Idaho is considered a landmark film in the New Queer Cinema movement, an early 1990s movement in queer-themed independent film making.  Since its 1991 release, the film has grown in popularity and been deemed as a cult classic, especially among queer audiences. The film is notable for its then-taboo subject matter and avant-garde style."  (Wikipedia)


    See you Friday, June 28 for My Own Private Idaho.

    This award-winning film from the Criterion Collection is not to be missed!

    Date:  Friday, June 28

    Time:  Social hour with hearty appetizer buffet (provided by you) begins 6:30pm. Movie starts between 7:35-7:45(ish).  Discussion to follow.

    Where:  The home of John and Robert, in the "Saloon" behind the main house, in Santa Barbara.  (Ask for the address if you need it when you RSVP.)

    RSVP (required) by Thursday, June 27.  Please bring an appetizer to share, and BYOB.

    Contact Howard for further information.

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  • GO - Hike Leader Training - Outdoor Experience

    • Sat, June 29, 2019
    • 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • Cathedral City member residence
    • 9 registrants
    Register

    Are you interested in learning how to lead hikes and sharpen your outdoor skills? Current hike leaders and anyone interested in becoming a hike leader are welcome. We will present the complete course outline. We will discuss any issues with past hikes and plan for future hikes. We will review basic hike leader procedures and techniques and latest technology and information. A good refresher for hike leaders.

    Location: Cathedral City - address will be provided with registration confirmation email.

    Great Outdoors provides low-cost outdoor activities, programs, education and leadership training to its members. We also offer Outdoor Experience classes in Trip Leader Overnight Events, Backpacking and Camping.

    Course Objectives:

    • Develop skills and knowledge to lead day hikes
    • Learn more about outdoor recreation
    • Lead and manage experiences safely
    • Enjoy and protect the environment   
    Course Outline:
    • Selecting a hike
    • Planning your hike
    • Writing up your hike
    • Conducting the hike
    • Safety
    • Protection: Elements/Inhabitants

    What to bring:  Your pack with your 10 essentials

    Completing this course will provide participants with Day Hike Leader Certification. 

    Contact: Scott Connelly, Chair Outdoor Experience: email click here  

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  • LA - Big Gay Picnic + Victorian Urban Stair Hike

    • Sat, June 29, 2019
    • 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • Beacon Echo Park, 751 N. Echo Park Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90026
    • 69
    • 31 registrants
    Register



    Location: Echo Park

    DISTANCE: 3 miles total, round-trip

    HIKE TIME: 2 hours

    DIFFICULTY: Moderately easy stroll


     Saturday Gay Funday - Our Big Gay Picnic is back!  Start summer with a free urban hike of Echo Park’s secret staircases and historic Victorian homes - a walking loop of hidden gems of Los Angeles, topped with an elevated view of Echo Park Lake.

    After we’re done, we return to scenic Echo Park Lake for our Big Gay Picnic! Bring a picnic blanket/mat for the lawn, your lunch or food to share, games, and enjoy the day with friends, old and new. Optionally, there’s Beacon for takeout - the lakeside brunch cafe (avo toast, lattes, sandwiches), but you might be waiting a while.

    Come enjoy the Great Outdoors. Bring a friend, learn about our upcoming hikes & campouts, play games, people-watch and lounge by the lake. Everyone's welcome!

    WHERE? Meet outside Beacon Echo Park, 751 N. Echo Park Avenue, Los Angeles, California 90026

    WHEN? 10 a.m. for urban hike. Return to Echo Park around 12:30 p.m. for gay picnicking.

    WHAT TO BRING: Walking shoes, hat, sunscreen, water. Mat/chair, lunch, drinks. Hand sanitizer/wipes for park bathroom.

    PARKING: Streets surrounding Echo Park, give yourself extra time. We encourage taking public transit, biking or walking for active health!

    HIKE LEADERS: If you have any questions, please contact Bryan Matsumoto and Albert Sotelo, Great Outdoors-LA (626) 246-8634 bmotzbmotz@yahoo.com

    -----------------------------

    GREAT OUTDOORS is the largest gay outdoor recreational organization in Southern California, with 5 chapters in Los Angeles, Orange County/Long Beach, Santa Barbara, Palm Springs, and San Diego. Join us for friendly camaraderie and fun adventures including hiking, camping, urban stair walks, kayaking, backpacking, roller skating, museum tours, picnics, game nights, and other fun events! We explore near and far, from a day hike in the Santa Monica Mountains to a four night camping trip in Zion National Park.


    Health Problems/allergies: It is the responsibility of participants to carry on their person a record of significant allergies, medications and medical history in the event of a medical emergency.  Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader if you wish.

    Photo credit: Repost Cochran Photos

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  • OCLB - Mount San Jacinto Day Hike

    • Sun, June 30, 2019
    • 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • Bottom of the Palm Stprings Tram
    • 8
    • 7 registrants
    Register

    Great Outdoors Orange County/Long Beach presents

    Mount San Jacinto

    Day Hike

    June 30, 2019, 8:00 AM


    Contact: Lance Whitmier. E-mail: lancewylelane@gmail.com. Phone: 657-250-5466

    This is an excellent day hike that gets you away from the Summer heat and turmoil of the Long Beach/Orange County metropolis. We will take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway from the desert up into the San Jacinto Wilderness.

    From the tram station, we will have a steep descent down to reach the trail to the top of the mountain. For about the first two miles, we will hike through a beautiful evergreen forest, passing through Round Valley.

    We then begin an ascent to the Wellman Divide, which is a good spot for a rest and snack because of its great views.

    We begin a long uphill traverse toward the peak. Although we will still be in the forest, it thins as we ascend. Thus, we will have increasingly great views of the desert beneath us. Just before the summit, we will come to a stone cabin. From there, we have about 100 yards of scrambling to reach the top. After lunch, we will return by the same route.

    Plan to meet at the tram ticket counter by 8am! Parking is $8.00 per car. Tickets are $25.95 for adults or $23.95 for 65+ (subject to change). Getting to the tram: From Interstate 10, take the Palm Springs Exit (Highway 111) and drive 9 miles to Tramway road. Turn right and follow the road 3.5 miles to its end at the Tramway parking lot. The tram takes us from Palm Springs to the 8,500 feet of altitude.

    The summit is at 10,833 feet, giving us a gain/loss of 2,333 feet. The round trip is about 11 miles of hiking.

    You should bring your ten essentials (listed here), a day pack, water (2 liters), trekking poles, sunscreen, hat, trail snacks, lunch, and plan on wearing hiking boots or hiking shoes (preferably waterproof), as well as cold weather clothing. Carpooling is recommended to help reduce gas cost and parking. There is NO FEE for this trip.


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  • PS - Bike Ride CicLAvia

    • Sun, June 30, 2019
    • 8:30 AM - 6:30 PM
    • Los Angeles - San Bernardino
    • 1 registrant
    Register

    CicLAvia Los Angeles by Train from the Historic San Bernardino Train Station

    EVENT DETAILS

    CicAvia will transform Venice Boulevard, 7th Avenue, and Washington Boulevard into public parks for the day to make way primarily for bike riders.  For details go to CicLAvia.com.   This concept was first developed in Bogota Columbia to open up normally traffic clogged streets in the central city to bike and pedestrian public spaces and see the city from a totally different perspective. 

    GETTING THERE

    Since CicLAvia encourages the use to public transportation to its events.  The Great Outdoors group plans to depart from the San Bernardino Depot Metrolink Station at 300 North D Street, San Bernardino CA 92418 (not to be confused with the San Bernardino Downtown Station) to LA Union Station at 9:50 am on June 30, arriving in LA Union at 11:30 am.  You will need to bring your own bicycles, which are welcome on the train.

    Those wishing to carpool/caravan from Palm Springs should meet at Hunters on Arenas at 8:30 am to allow time to reach the San Bernardino Depot.  There will be ample parking at the Station.  Those planning to drive from Palm Springs to the San Bernardino Depot should bring vehicles capable of carrying bicycles.

    The Great Outdoors group plans to return from LA Union Station to the San Bernardino Depot on the 4:00 pm train, arriving at the San Bernardino Depot at 5:37 p.m.

    You are encouraged to download the Metrolink app to your smart phone containing all of its schedules.  Once registered, you can buy your electronic ticket ($10 all day for Metrolink and all downtown subways).  The machines at the depot are notoriously user unfriendly.

    Other transportation options:

    You are, of course, free to drive all the way to Los Angeles, to take both an earlier departing train (7:00 am to 8:35 am ) or later returning train (5:35 pm to 7:13 pm).  A meeting place in Los Angeles will be arranged for those departing earlier or later.

    Trip leaders :

    Dan Haueter (909) 227-2537, Email

    Scott Connelly Email  

    If you have any questions, it’s best to ask the event leader listed in the announcement or reply to this email.

    If you have extra space available on your bike rack to offer rideshare you may so indicate when you register. 

    New to CicLAvia?

    Here are some things to know before you go:

    • CicLAvia is FREE!
    • CicLAvia lasts from 9am to 4pm.
    • CicLAvia closes streets to car traffic and opens them for people to walk, skate, bike, play, and explore parts of Los Angeles County.
    • CicLAvia is not a race! There's no starting point or finish line—begin where you like and enjoy the day your way.
    • CicLAvia traffic flows in two directions, just like regular traffic. Check out more rules of the route.
    • Download a copy of the route map.

    Hub Information

    Hubs are resting and meeting points along the route. Each hub has free basic bike repair, bike parking, an information booth, CicLAvia merchandise, free drinking water, and ADA-compliant restrooms. Some hubs include additional programming and activities. 

    Hub Addresses

    • Mid City Hub | 4915 W Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90016
    • Arlington Heights Hub | 3306 Venice Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019
    • Pico Union Hub | 1450 Venice Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90006

    Mileage Between Hubs

    • Mid City to Arlington Heights: 2 miles
    • Mid City to Pico Union: 4 miles
    • Pico Union to Arlington Heights: 2 miles

    Getting to the Route and Parking

    Go Metro

    These Metro Rail Stations are located within 1.5 miles of the route:

    • Red Line | Wilshire/Vermont and Westlake/MacArthur Park stations
    • Purple Line | Wilshire/Normandie and Wilshire/Western stations
    • Expo Line | Expo/La Brea, Farmdale, and Expo/Crenshaw stations




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  • SD - Kings Canyon National Park

    • Thu, July 04, 2019
    • Sun, July 07, 2019
    • Kings Canyon NP, CA
    • 0
    • 30 registrants
    Join waitlist

    Great Outdoors San Diego

    presents

    Sequoia & Kings Canyon

    National Park

    July 4 - 7, 2019

    (4 days, 3 nights)

    Sold out.

    Please join the wait list to be notified of openings! 

    Originally established in 1890 as General Grant National Park, the park was greatly expanded and renamed to Kings Canyon National Park on March 4, 1940. The park's namesake, Kings Canyon, is a rugged glacier-carved valley more than a mile (1,600 m) deep. Other natural features include multiple 14,000-foot (4,300 m) peaks, high mountain meadows, swift-flowing rivers, and some of the world's largest stands of giant sequoia trees. Kings Canyon is north of and contiguous with Sequoia National Park, and the two are jointly administered by the National Park Service as the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.

    Sunset Campground
    Our group campground that only permits tent camping., So therefore no trailers or RV’s will be permitted on this trip. Our campground permits up to 30 participants.


    Overview

    Sunset campground is centrally located in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks in central California's rugged Sierra Nevada range. This campground is at an elevation of 6,500 feet. A number of hiking trails begin within walking distance of the campground including the one mile trail to the General Grant Tree.

    Natural Features

    Sunset campground is located in a mixed evergreen forest of sugar pines, incense cedar, fir and sequoia trees. Summer days can be warm and dry with cool nights. Wildlife is abundant and includes black bear, mule deer, gray squirrel, golden-mantled ground squirrel, and a variety of resident birds, among many others. The dynamic landscape of the park evolves from geologic processes working over millennia to sculpt granite, marble and other forms of rock. Here in the parks are canyons carved by rivers and glaciers, towering rugged peaks and miles of underground caverns. Found throughout the park are thousands of lakes and ponds and miles of rivers and streams.

    Facilities

    Group sites A & B are for tents only and have paved parking areas. No recreational vehicles are allowed. The two group sites include 6 picnic tables, fire rings and 6 bear boxes. Flush toilets and potable water are available in the campground. Each group site can accommodate 15-30 people. Vehicles are not allowed to drive in to sites for unloading ice chests or supplies. Food lockers dimensions for all campsites are 47" long X 33" deep X 28" high. Group sites are located across the street from Grant Grove Village.

    A close up of a map Description automatically generated

    Weather


    Average high

    Average low

    Extreme high

    Extreme low

    Jul

    76°F
    24°C

    51°F
    11°C

    92°F
    33°C

    34°F 
    1°C

    Getting There

    Kings Canyon National Park is easily accessible from Fresno, California. Take HWY 180 East from Fresno, and proceed 55 miles to Kings Canyon National Park. Three miles east of the Big Stump Entrance Station you will find Sunset campground on your left.

    Don’t forget your 10 essentials.

    Cancellation Policy: You can cancel for a full refund on or before June 15, 2019.  Any cancellations after June 15, 2019 will not be eligible for a refund.

    By registering for this trip you agree to the terms and conditions of Great Outdoors. If you are unfamiliar with these please click here Terms and Conditions.

    Itinerary*

    Thursday

    2:00 PM Arrive @ Sunset Campground, check-in

    6:00 PM Meet & Greet – Hot Dogs & Hamburgers provided

    8:17 PM Sunset

    Friday

    5:41 AM Sunrise

    9:00 AM Day Hike – Pack a lunch

    6:00 PM Potluck

    8:17 PM Sunset

    Saturday

    5:41 AM Sunrise

    10:00 AM Day Hike – Pack a lunch

    6:00 PM Potluck

    8:19 PM Sunset

    Sunday

    5:42 AM Sunrise

    12:00 PM Depart campground

    *Times are estimated and subject to change without notice.

    Special Note: Since this is an extended trip, there will be two Potluck nights.

    Questions? Contact our Trip Leader Matthew - VPO-SD@GreatOutdoors.org

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  • LA - Mount Hillyer Day Hike

    • Thu, July 04, 2019
    • 8:00 AM
    • Silver Moccasin trailhead
    Register


    Photo courtesy of modernhiker.com.

    Location: Silver Moccasin trailhead, just north of Chilao Visitor Center

    Difficulty: moderate, 8 miles total, 1000 feet of elevation gain

    Earn that holiday barbecue with this relatively easy, scenic hike in the high country of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument. The Chilao area features lightly forested rolling hills that are strewn with boulders. Hillyer is one of the easiest mountain summits to reach in the San Gabriels, with a total climb of only about 1000 feet.

    We’ll meet at 8:00am at the Chilao Visitor Center, which is 27 miles up the Angeles Crest Highway (CA-2) from La Cañada and clearly signed. Depending on how busy the area is, we’ll either leave cars in the parking lot there (adding roughly a mile of hiking round-trip) or drive up the road and park closer to the trailhead. We’ll make this decision at 8:15 so please arrive by then to join the hike. Either way, all parked cars must display an Adventure Pass. (The trip leader will have a couple extras available for purchase, but please don’t rely on this.)

    A great description of the route is here: https://modernhiker.com/hike/hiking-mount-hillyer/

    Round trip is about 8 miles. As always, come prepared with the ten essentials listed here. This isn’t the most shaded hike and temps will definitely be warm-to-hot, so bring plenty of water and sun protection. Trip leader is Matthew Bokach, who can be reached at orobourical@yahoo.com.



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  • OCLB - Yosemite National Park Intermediate Backpack

    • Mon, July 08, 2019
    • 8:00 AM
    • Sat, July 13, 2019
    • 11:00 AM
    • Robinson Creek Trail Head, Sierra Nevada Mountains
    • 6 registrants
    Register

    Great Outdoors OC/LB Chapter presents

    Yosemite National Park Intermediate Backpack

    July 8 July 13, 2019

    To go on this backpack, you must click on the "I'm interested" button and the trip leader will contact you.

    Contact: Frederick Brown: E-Mail : fredincal346@gmail.com. Phone: 562-754-1838



    Interested in spending a week in early July in Yosemite National Park and the Hoover Wilderness. This intermediate backpack is your chance to see and enjoy spectacular Sierra Nevada scenery.

    We will leave from the trailhead (about 7,100') at Mono Village Resort at the Twin Lakes outside of Bridgeport, CA at 7 AM on Jul 7. From there, we will backpack 8 miles on the first day to Crown Lake. We will go through forests until we come out onto an open bench with views of Sierra peaks and the Sawtooth Ridge. Going through fields of flowers, we will arrive at Barney Lake (8,260'). From there, we will climb steep switchbacks to the junction with the Peeler Lake trail. Then we will climb past Robinson Lakes, through a hemlock forest and climb to Crown Lake at 9,440'.

    On day two, we will go south, passing crestal Snow Lake, known for its golden trout. After rounding the lake, we will cross meadows to reach Rock Island Pass at 10,240'.We will descend from the pass, leaving the trail to cross Rancheria Creek, and then hiking up to Arndt Lake at 9,234'. Distance covered about 5 miles.

    Day three will be a rest day. On Day four, we will backpack North to Rock Island Pass, and continue North to Peeler Lake. We will pass through the Kerrick Meadow as we follow Rancheria Creek. Before Buckyeye Pass, we will turn East, coming to Peeler Lake at 9,490'. Distance traveled will be about 5 miles.

    On day five, we will have our second rest day. On our last day, we will backpack about 7.5 miles, retracing our route of the first day after we pass the junction of the Crown Lake Trail. Total distance covered will be about 27 miles.

    You will need your ten essentials. Click here for the list.  For a list of recommended gear, contact the trip leader. Bear canisters are required. Carpooling is recommended to help reduce gas cost and parking.

    To go on this backpack, you must click on the "I'm interested" button and the trip leader will contact you.. This trip is limited to a total of six people.


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  • SD - Core Group Meeting

    • Wed, July 10, 2019
    • 7:30 PM
    • Jo's Diner Mission Hills
    • 3 registrants
    Register



    LOCATION

    807 W Washington Street
    (Corner W. .Washington & Falcon St.) San Diego, CA 92103

    PARKING
    Free parking behind restaurant (Parking lot entrance off Falcon St.) 

    The Great Outdoors San Diego (GOSD) Core Group meets every month on the 2nd Wednesday of the month to conduct GOSD business and share a meal together. Members and interested others are welcome to join. If you'll be joining us, please RSVP so we can reserve the right number of seats at the restaurant.

    We hope to see you then!

    GOSD Core Group


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  • PS - Hike: Mt. San Jacinto SP - Round Valley

    • Thu, July 11, 2019
    • 9:30 AM - 3:00 PM
    • Valley Tram Station Palm Springs
    • 5
    • 10 registrants
    Register

    Round Valley Loop and Hidden Divide hike via Aerial Tram

    • Meeting place: The Tram’s Valley Station, waiting area
    • Duration: About four hours
    • Distance: 5-mile hike with 800-foot elevation gain
    • Pace: Moderate with rest breaks
    • Difficulty: Moderate except for a few strenuous climbs on level trails. Suitable for physically fit beginners.
    • Meeting time: No later than 9:30 a.m. so we can be in line in time to take the 10 a.m. tram. 
    • Trip leader, Howard Goldberg at 917-692-5873  Email

    Escape the summer heat by taking the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to an elevation of more than 8,500 feet to hike in the Mt. San Jacinto Wilderness. Temperatures at the tram’s Mountain Station can be 30 degrees cooler, so check at https://www.pstramway.com/weather/ before you leave home to determine how to dress.

    Tickets for the Tram:  $25.95 Adult $23.95 Senior. Summer and Annual passes available. Recommend purchasing online at least a day before the event as tickets sell out. $8 parking fee waived for pass holders and local residents.  Our tram departure is 10 AM. Purchase tickets here: Palm Springs Tram Tickets

    When checking in at the Long Valley Ranger Station, we will ask for a free permit to access Hidden Divide, which is open on a first-come, first-served basis to a maximum of 30 hikers per day and only Thursdays through Sundays. It was closed for restoration in recent years. If we don’t make the cut for Hidden Divide, we will still do the Round Valley Loop counterclockwise, a lovely trek through pine forests with mountain views. 

    What to bring: 

    Ten Essentials (click here), water (2 to 3 liters recommended), lunch/snacks, sun protection, layered clothing. Hiking poles can be helpful. Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE). Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required. 

    Poor weather and/or trail conditions cancels this hike.

    Hiking Requirements: additional information click here

    Health Problems/allergies:   Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete the hike.

    Please Note: Due to the popularity of some of our events, we may initially limit registrations to members only. Non-Members will be given a chance at a future date to register if space is still available. Members need to be signed in with their email and password in order to register for member only events

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  • PS - Silverwood Lake - Cancelled

    • Fri, July 12, 2019
    • Sun, July 14, 2019
    • Silverwood Lake, CA

    Sorry, this event has been cancelled.  It may be rescheduled at a later date.  If you have any questions, please contact our PS Chapter VPO - via email: VPO-PS@GreatOutdoors.org


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  • LA - Big Rock Creek / Pleasant View Ridge Wilderness day hike

    • Sat, July 13, 2019
    • 8:00 AM
    • South Fork of Big Rock Creek
    Register


    Difficulty: Moderate, 4 miles total, ~600 feet of elevation gain

    The South Fork of Big Rock Creek is one of the most beautiful canyons on the Angeles National Forest, and yet is something of a well-kept secret. It contains an astonishing diversity of natural features: beautiful geology, narrow rocky cliffs, typical mid-elevation desert vegetation giving way to a wide swath of riparian hardwood forest, and at least one historic structure. It’s also one of the best places on the ANF to see bighorn sheep. Join Great Outdoors LA chapter for a short hike up the canyon to experience all of this!

    We’ll meet at the PCT trailhead just north of South Fork Campground at 8am. We’ll wait until about 8:15 and then start the hike.

    To reach the trailhead get yourself to Highway 138, then turn south on 165th St. E. This turns into Bob’s Gap road. After driving about 6.4 miles you’ll dead-end into Valyermo Road. Turn left and in roughly a quarter-mile turn left again down Big Rock Creek Road. Follow Big Rock Creek Road about 2.3 miles, then take the left turn onto a rough dirt road toward South Fork Campground. The parking area for the trailhead is a right turn roughly 0.85 miles, just before the campground. The map at this link shows driving directions from either the west (via the 5 and 14 freeways) or the east (via the 15 freeway). All parked vehicles should display an Adventure Pass!

    The hike route:


    We’ll wait until about 8:15 and then start the hike.

    This is a moderately rough hike along and sometimes IN the streambed of Big Rock Creek. Wear long pants and strong-soled boots as we’ll repeatedly be using rocks to cross the creek. It’s possible (but not necessary) that your feet will get wet. Everyone should have at least one liter of water and snacks. We also suggest that you dress in layers as the early morning will be cold until the sun rises over the eastern wall of the canyon. We’ll do a small amount of pushing through vegetation but for most of the length of the hike there are narrow game trails to follow. Bring a camera partly to capture the beauty of the canyon and creek, and partly in hopes that we spot some bighorn sheep on the cliffs above the creek. We’ll hike about two miles up to the riparian hardwood forest where we’ll stop for lunch, then turn around and backtrack to the trailhead. The elevation gain on this hike is minimal and gradual.

    As always on a Great Outdoors hike we suggest folks bring the “ten essentials” listed here.

    Most of this hike is in the Pleasant View Ridge Wilderness and so group size is restricted to 15 persons. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity – register now! Group leader is Matthew Bokach, you can reach him at orobourical@yahoo.com with any questions.


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  • PS - Summer Pool Party

    • Sat, July 13, 2019
    • 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM
    • Palm Springs (address to be provided upon registration)
    • 80

     

    Mid-Summer Pool Party

    (Save the Date; FURTHER DETAILS TO FOLLOW SOON)

    GO members (and one guest per member) are invited. 

    This pool party will be at a member's home in Palm Springs.  The event address will be included in the e-mail acknowledgment only to those who have registered for the event. 

    What to Bring: Towel, swimsuit (no nudity allowed), sun protection, folding chair. 

    Directions: To be provided via e-mail to those who register for this event.

    Contact: Scott Connelly EMAIL click here

    Cancellations:  Please email us at the above email address if you are unable to attend so we can open up a spot for others who may be on our waitlist.

    Photos:  Before taking photos, please ask the subject if that's OK with them... Some may not want their handsome faces to be splashed all over the internet.

    Refund Policy:  There are no refunds once you've registered and paid for this event.

    Health Problems/allergies: It is the responsibility of participants to carry on their person a record of significant allergies, medications and medical history in the event of a medical emergency.  Discuss any medical concerns with the event leader if you wish.

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  • PS - Hike: Tram To Idyllwild

    • Thu, July 18, 2019
    • 9:15 AM - 5:00 PM
    • Mt. San Jacinto Santa Rosa mountains
    • 10
    • 5 registrants

    TRAM TO HUMBER PARK, IDYLLWILD:

    Registration not open yet, we need to get a final price on the transportation.

    One way with shuttle van return.

    • Distance: 7.5 miles
    • Total Elevation: 1100'
    • Total Descent:  2700'
    • Difficulty: Strenuous*
    • Maximum Elevation: 8700
    • Minimum Elevation 6500
    • Type: One way with shuttle van return
    • Advisement: A lot of down slope hiking.Hiking poles may be helpful. Elevation gain 600 feet to Hidden Divide and total gain of 1100 feet. See trail profile chart below.  You need to be in good physical condition*.
    • Meeting location: Tram station loading area: 9:15 AM
    • We need to be at the front of the line for first tram
    • Departure time: 10 AM Tram 

    Tickets for the Tram:  $25.95 Adult $23.95 Senior. Summer and Annual passes available. Recommend purchasing online at least a day before the event as tickets sell out. $8 parking fee waived for pass holders and local residents.  Our tram departure is 10 AM. Purchase tickets here: Palm Springs Tram Tickets

    DESCRIPTION

    Hike from Round Valley up to Hidden Divide and down to Willow Creek and down the Devils Slide switchback to Humber Park in Idyllwild. We will take time to enjoy the trail and interesting features on the way.  Our van will meet us and take us to a local restaurant for a meal prior to returning to Palm Springs. Bring $$ for your restaurant meal after the hike. 

    What to bring: 

    Ten Essentials (click here), water (2 to 3 liters recommended), lunch/snacks, sun protection, layered clothing and hiking poles. Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE). Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required. 

    The registration fee covers the cost of the van shuttle.

    Members only. Space is limited. Please register to reserve a spot, sign the electronic waiver, and receive any last-minute updates.

    Contact Hike Leader: Scott Connelly  email

    Refund only if there is a wait list.

    Health Problems/allergies:   Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete the hike.


     


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  • OCLB - Long Beach Ranchos Day Trip

    • Sun, July 21, 2019
    • 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
    • Long Beach Ranchos
    • 9
    • 1 registrant
    Register

    Great Outdoors Orange County/Long Beach presents

    Rancho Los Cerritos and Rancho Los Alamitos

    Sunday, July 21, 2019 from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM


    Contact: Doug Cable. E-mail: dccable2@verizon.net.

    Phone: (949)922-1452

    Join us for a journey into the past as we visit these historic landmarks in Long Beach, whose history goes back to 500 B.C.

    Our fist stop will be:

    Rancho Los Cerritos

    4600 Virginia Rd, Long Beach, CA 90807

    Sunday: 1-5 PM

    Admission to Rancho Los Cerritos museum is always free. Free and plentiful parking is available in the lot across from RLC’s entry gates. Limited parking, including accessible spaces, is available near the Visitor Center.

    House Tours

    Free tours of the 1844 adobe are offered during public hours. These one-hour walking tours include work areas like the mayordomo’s room and blacksmith shop as well as living spaces like the parlor and master bedroom. Tours are led by third-person docents or first-person interpreters.

    Garden Tours

    Free guided tours of the historic gardens are available during public hours on weekends. The vibrant gardens that grace the property today include trees that date back to the mid-19th century, as well as lush landscaping designed in the early 1930s by notable landscape architect Ralph Cornell.

    Our second stop will be:

    Rancho Los Alamitos

    6400 East Bixby Hill Road, Long Beach, CA 90815

    Sunday 1-5 PM.

    Admission is free. Free parking is available at the Rancho on normal operating days.

    Rancho Center - Self-guided tourRanch House - Docent-guided tours only, every 30 minutes, with the first tour at approximately 1:30 PM. and the last at 4:00 PM

    This trip is free.


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  • Corp - Quarterly Board Meeting

    • Sat, July 27, 2019
    • 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
    • 782 Bernie Drive, Crestline, CA 92325
    • 4 registrants
    Register



     

    		  

    Quarterly Great Outdoors "Corporate" Board Meeting

    All Members Are Invited

    The Great Outdoors (GO) Board of Directors meets four times a year - once each quarter. The meetings usually occur in January, April, July and October.  The Board also convenes an Annual Conference each year in October.

    The Board meets to approve prior meeting minutes, review the corporation's financial state, pending committee projects/reports and what's going on in each Chapter. They also set the date for the next meeting.

    Each Chapter is responsible for sending their Chapter Representative to the meeting. The public is normally welcome to attend the quarterly meetings.

    Our next meeting will be on Saturday, July 27th in Crestline, CA.. 

    To read more about our Board of Directors - click here.

    If you have any questions prior to the meeting, please email our Chair - Peter Emond-Worline at Chair@GreatOutdoors.org

    Note:  The Board takes a short break for a hosted lunch.

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  • PS - July Game Night and Pool Time Hosted by George Gosselin

    • Sat, July 27, 2019
    • 4:30 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Palm Springs, CA (Address to be provided once you have REGISTERED)
    • 30


    George Gosselin has invited us all to the Game Night/Pool Swim party on Saturday July 27, 2019 at his beautiful home in Palm Springs


    NOTE: This event will have a maximum capacity of 30 people

    SCHEDULE:

    4:30 PM to 6:00 PM – POOL/SWIM TIME (please bring your own pool chairs)

    6:00 PM to 6:15 PM - SOCIAL PERIOD

    6:15 PM to 7:00 PM – POTLUCK DINNER 

    7:00 PM to 9:00 PM – GAME TIME

    WHAT TO BRING:

    1) Potluck Item to share

    2) Your own beverage(s)

    3) Table Games you want to play  (Great Outdoors provides many games)

    4) Bathing suit, towel and pool chair. if you plan to use the pool.

    NOTE:  Bring potluck dishes/snacks/etc. "ready to serve" in a serving bowl or dish, including any needed serving utensils.  

    PLEASE DO NOT ask our hosts to provide access to their ovens or bowls, spoons, etc.

    Our chapter is always looking for Game Night Hosts!

    Please call Richard Dachman at 818-430-7114 or email rdachman@mac.com if you are interested in hosting Game Night.

    To view photos from our past game nights - click here.

    To view our Game Night guidelines - click here.

    To view our pool nudity policy - click here.

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  • PS - Hike: Mt. San Jacinto Peak

    • Sun, July 28, 2019
    • 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
    • Valley Tram Station Palm Springs
    • 2 registrants
    Register
    • Time: 7:30 am - ticket in hand and in line by 7:30 am to board 8 am Tram departure
    • Distance: 9 miles out & back via Sid Davis Route and back side of Miller Peak
    • Summit: 10,834'
    • Elevation Gain: 2,300 ft or 701 m
    • Terrain: Dirt, rocky
    • Difficulty: 'Very Strenuous' due to altitude, hike distance, off trail steepness,  and some minor bouldering. (Warning: if you tend to get altitude sickness at high elevations, please do not attempt this hike, or you are not in reasonably good shape.  This is for your safety and the others around you.)
    • Terrain: Maintained trail/off-trail, varied from dirt, rocky and some bouldering near the peak
    • Hiking time: 7-8 hours depending on pace, includes ample time for lunch/snacks and appropriate breaks
    • Pace: Slow to Moderate (please know your abilities)

    NOTE!!!

    Tickets for the Tram: You will need to purchase a Tram ticket for this hike. Cost is $25.95 for Adults. AAA Auto Club offers a discount of 10%.  They do have tickets available each day.  But why take the chance (weekend mornings tend to sellout). I recommend purchasing online at least a day before the event. Remember, the tram departure we want to take is 8:00 am SHARP -- http://pstramway.com. Also, $8.00 parking fee for drivers not from the Coachella Valley.


    This all day outing is as good as it gets--for fit hikers. The trip starts out by taking the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway almost a mile straight up into the San Jacinto wilderness. We will stop briefly at the Ranger station to sign and drop off a required permit. Then onward to the Round Valley / Sid Davis junction. From there we head up the Sid Davis route (some steep areas) to where the main trail meets the first of two major switchbacks to the peak (with appropriate breaks). At this point, the trail heads up north towards the next switchback. The forest is somewhat open with the ground covered in lush vegetation, and ever more stunning views of the desert below. At the next switchback--a close encounter with the back side of Miller Peak--then turning south and up towards San Jacinto Peak. After a brief visit at the Stone Hut (emergency shelter), we'll head to our highest point (a rock scramble up a 100 yards or so). At the SJ Peak, a long, leisurely break will be ideal.John Muir considered the view from San Jacinto peak one of the most sublime on earth.
    Contact: Hike Leader: David Stewart EMAIL click here

    What to bring: 3-liters of water, snacks, lunch, jacket, gloves (optional), sun protection (sunscreen/hat), good hiking boots/footwear, hiking poles (recommended), camera, Emergency Information Contact (ICE), Ten Essentials, and a fun attitude to share in the altitude :-)

    Poor weather and/or trail conditions cancels this hike.

    Hiking Requirements: additional information click here


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  • PS - Hurkey Creek Campout (Idyllwild)

    • Fri, August 02, 2019
    • 2:00 PM
    • Sun, August 04, 2019
    • 1:00 PM
    • Hurkey Creek Campground
    • 0
    • 50 registrants
    Join waitlist


    FREE CAMPOUT - SAY WHAT?

    The Great Outdoors Palm Springs (GOPS) Chapter is giving back! This is a FREE campout for the first 50 Great Outdoors (GO) members who register.  We'll be staying in a group site where both tents and RVs are welcome. The weekend will include one complimentary dinner and two continental breakfasts.

    Escape the summer heat and join us for a relaxing weekend. Sit around the campground, play cards, board games, go on your own hike, etc. The theme of this campout is relaxation verses a list of planned activities hour by hour.

    Hurkey Creek Campground: Our campground is set high up in the San Jacinto Mountains (4,500') near the town of Mountain Center. Our group camp site is nestled in a grove of pine trees and offers a wide range of opportunities including beautiful scenery, a group fire pit, hiking and mountain biking trails and group activities. Just 9 miles away, the mountain town of Idyllwild offers the chance to shop, dine or visit the picturesque town’s museum. If it’s water you like, fishing and boating is available at nearby Lake Hemet.

    Meals: We are providing a complimentary meal on Friday night consisting of: Hot Dogs / Buns, Baked Beans, Potato Salad, Macaroni Salad, Chips, Ice Cream and Bottled Water.  We'll also provide continental breakfasts (coffee, danish or muffins and OJ) on Saturday and Sunday mornings. 

    You are on your own for Saturday activities, lunch and dinner. If you don’t wish to cook, there are many fine restaurants in the mountain town of Idyllwild (just 9 miles away). If you need a suggestion, the Trip Leader highly recommends Cafe Aroma (reservation probably needed).

    There is a small store on SR-74 1 mile from the campground at Lake Hemet. Stores are also in the nearby town of Idyllwild. 

    Schedule Of Events

    Friday, Aug 2

    • 2 pm - Check-in at gate (your name will be on a list)
    • Before Dinner - Relax and enjoy. Grab a buddy and go on a hike, go mountain biking, etc. 
    • 6 pm - Hot Dog dinner with all the fixings or dinner on your own
    • 8 pm - Group campfire activities - bingo and popcorn

    Saturday, Aug 3

    • 7 am - Continental Breakfast
    • During the day - relax and enjoy.  Grab a buddy and go on a hike, go mountain biking, etc. Check our camp board for any scheduled activities as a group.*
    • 8 pm - Group Campfire activities

    Sunday, Aug 4

    • 7 am - Continental Breakfast
    • During the day - relax and enjoy.  Grab a buddy and go on a hike, go mountain biking, etc. Check our camp board for any scheduled activities as a group.*
    • 1 pm - Clean up our campground area. Check Out. Safe travels home.

    *Check campground white board for updates and hike/outing details.

    Prices: This campout is free if you currently are a paid GO member. If not a GO member, you will have the option of joining for $25 per person for a one (1) year club membership during the online registration process. Each person going must complete a separate registration and electronically agree to our Terms and Conditions.You can also click here to join and then return to this page as well. Needless to say, there are no refunds for this trip.  ;-)

    Campsite Amenities: We will be in Group Campsite D which has clean restrooms (which have electricity, flush toilets, running water and hot showers that take quarters), picnic tables, fire rings, water and level campground spots for your tent or RV. There is a small store near Lake Hemet on CA-74 with limited supplies. Quiet hours are from 10 pm to 6 am. 

    Amenities For RVs:  This is a dry camping event. There are no RV hookups for electricity, water or sewer but you can bring your RV to our group site. Fresh water spigots (bring a hose) are available around the campsite to fill your RV's fresh tank before parking on the very level ground in our site. Generators are allowed 6 AM – 10 PM (but please be considerate of the tent persons sleeping near you).There is a dump site ($15) located at the nearby Lake Hemet campground.

    What to Bring:  Camp chair, camping/cooking gear, food, warm/cool weather clothing, shorts, one bundle of firewood per person. Please do not bring particle board, old furniture, plywood or construction materials. These cause the release of toxic gases when burned. Firewood is for sale at nearby Lake Hemet. We recommend you read our suggested Ten Essentials.

    CONSIDER GOING GREEN!  Please bring your own plates, cups, mugs, eating utensils, napkins, paper towels, camp soap, etc.  There are water spigots located in the camp or in the nearby restroom for washing dishes.

    Directions: The Hurkey Creek Park & Campground is located at 56375 CA Hwy 74, Mountain Center, CA 92561. It is Located 4 miles SE of Mountain Center off of CA-74.

    - SPECIAL NOTE - 

    Due to heavy rains during the 2019 Valentine's Day storm, two of the major roads (SR-74 and SR-243) leading to Hurkey Creek were washed out during the 2019 Valentines Day storm. Hopefully one or both of them will reopen open prior to our campout.  As of 6/19/2019, the open routes to the campground are:

    (1) CA/SR-74 from Palm Desert, CA to the campground is open. From Palm Desert, it is a 34 mile drive up the mountain with some windy sections. Turn right on Apple Canyon Road and then almost immediately left into Hurkey Creek Park & Campground. The GPS coordinates are: N33 40.526 W116 40.920. 

    Google Map Driving Directions from your place of origin to the Hurkey Creek Campground via CA-74 - click here.

    (2) CA/SR-371 from Anza, CA to Hurkey Creek is open.

    Google Map Driving Directions from your place of origin to the Hurkey Creek Campground via CA-79/CA-371 (through Anza) - click here.

    (3) CA/SR-74 from Hemet to the Hurkey Creek is only partially open. This route will be open with a pilot car escort from 4 AM to 8 AM and from to 6 PM to 12 PM Monday thru Friday and from 4 AM to 12 PM Saturday & Sunday thru 9/3/19. For the latest information on the CA/SR-74 road condition and closure - click here

    (4) CA/SR-243 from Banning to the Hurkey Creek is closed at Lake Fulmor and isn't passable. For the latest information on the CA/SR-243 road condition and closure - click here

    Climate & Elevation - The current forecast avg. is 86 high 55 low.  Check the weather forecast - click here.  The park is located at approximately 4,500’.

    Contact/Questions:  Ed via email: EdEmondWorline@gmail.com

    Photos: To see some photos from prior trips to Hurkey Creek - click here.

    Children: There may be children present.

    Quiet Hours - 10 PM -  6 AM

    Cell Service - unknown

    Pets: Pets are permitted if they are properly restrained and under the control of the owner. Dogs must be licensed, restrained on a leash not longer than six feet, and attended at all times. Please bring doggie bags and clean up any of their waste.  Please be aware there are snakes at this location.  

    Health Problems/allergies: It is the responsibility of participants to carry on their person a record of significant allergies, medications and medical history in the event of a medical emergency.  Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader if you wish.

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  • OCLB - Silver Lake to Thousand Island Lake Intermediate Backpack

    • Fri, August 09, 2019
    • 8:00 AM
    • Fri, August 16, 2019
    • 11:00 AM
    • Rush Creek Trail Head, Sierra Nevada Mountains
    • 5 registrants
    Register

    Great Outdoors OC/LB Chapter presents

    Silver Lake to Thousand Island Lake Itermediate Backpack

    August 9 to August 16, 2019

    To go on this backpack, you must click on the "I'm interested" button and the trip leader will contact you.

    Contact: Frederick Brown: E-Mail : fredincal346@gmail.com. Phone: 562-754-1838



    The Perseid Meteor Shower peaks on August 11. What better place to be than in the Sierra Nevada Mountains with dark skies.


    Day 1: We will leave from the trailhead (about 7,220') at Rush Creek at 8 AM on August 9. We wuill ascend steeply for 1,300'. Along the way we will see a waterfall on Rush Creek. After passing Alger Lake, we will ascend another 500 feet to Gem Lake where we will camp..


    Day 2: We will have only about 400' of gain on this short day. We will be camping at Waugh Lake with views of Banner Peak and Mount Ritter.


    Day 3: Our first rest day, with an optional day hike to Weber and Sullivan Lakes.

    Day 4: We will backpack to Thousand Island Lake, going over 10,200' Island Pass. Soon after the pass, we will pass small Ham and Eggs Lakes. Arriivng at Thousand Island Lake, we will camp on the Northwest Shore. Distance covered that day will be 6 ½ mils.


    Day 5: Our second rest day can include a partial cross country hike to Garnet Lake, and then to Ruby and Emerald Lakes.


    Day 6: We will re-trace our steps to Waugh Lake.


    Day 7: After returning to the trailhead, we will drive back to Southern California.


    You will need your ten essentials. Click here for the list.  For a list of recommended gear, contact the trip leader. Bear containers are required. Carpooling is recommended to help reduce gas cost and parking.

    To go on this backpack, you must click on the "I'm interested" button and the trip leader will contact you.. This trip is limited to a total of five people.


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  • SD - La Jolla Shores Snorkeling

    • Sun, August 11, 2019
    • 10:00 AM
    • La Jolla Shores
    • 9 registrants
    Register



    GOSD Day Event - Snorkeling at La Jolla Shores

    Event lead: Brent Sammons 

    Come join us for some snorkeling, sharks, and socializing at La Jolla Shores! We've chosen August since that's when the Leopard Sharks typically come close to shore.

    We'll meet at Kellogg Park at 10:00 and be in the water by about 10:30. After snorkeling amongst the wildlife, those of us who are interested will grab lunch nearby afterwards.

    Please bring your snorkel gear (mask, snorkel, fins and a light wet suit if you tend to feel cold quickly), sunblock, some water, any snacks you may need for the morning, a towel, and a dry change of clothes. (Leave your valuables in your car, as any gear left at the park will likely be unattended while we’re in the water.)

    Parking can be a challenge. So please plan to allow yourself plenty of time for that – and carpool if possible.

    Fun facts about Leopard Sharks:

    La Jolla’s leopard sharks are almost all female, most of which are pregnant. Their gestation period is 10-11 months. They bear live young, and a litter will typically consist of 15-20 babies.

    They congregate at La Jolla Shores because of its calm, warm, shallow waters—an ideal natural incubator—and abundant food in the sand, rocky reefs and kelp forest of the protected preserve, including clams, crabs, shrimp, squid, fish and fish eggs. The sharks’ distinctive color pattern, resembling leopard spots, is so varied that they can be used to identify individuals, akin to fingerprints. Leopard sharks live along the Pacific coast of North America from Washington to Mazatlán, Mexico, including the Gulf of California.

    They arrive at La Jolla’s shores as early as June and as late as December, peaking in August and September.

    Leopard sharks have small mouths and teeth, perfect for feedings on crustaceans and bony fish. Adults can grow up to six feet in length, but the average size is four to five feet.


    VPO-SD@GreatOutdoors.org
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  • LA - Rock Creek Canyon (near Mammoth)

    • Thu, August 15, 2019
    • Sun, August 18, 2019
    • Rock Creek Canyon
    • 2
    • 18 registrants
    Join waitlist

    August brings cooler weather and fall colors (hopefully) to the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains. The aspen trees start to burst out in gold and red, framed by a backdrop of evergreens and rugged granite peaks. Our stream-side campsites, located on Lower Rock Creek in East Fork Campground, at 9000 feet, are in a beautiful wooded section of the canyon. Anglers, hikers and photographers enjoy this scenic location in the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains of California.

    Join Great Outdoors as we explore and hike this magnificent valley and its many lakes carved by ancient glaciers. There are numerous hiking options, or you can spend the day relaxing in the campground. 

    Mammoth Lakes is nearby (about an hour), where you can visit the Devils Postpile, Rainbow Falls, Reds Meadow Valley, or spend the day exploring the village. If you’re feeling daring, rent a mountain bike and ride down the ski runs, or take a gondola up to the top of Mammoth Mountain for the spectacular view. This would be a good Friday activity.

    You may arrive anytime after 2pm on Thursday. You may need to acclimate to the high altitude, Take it easy! Drink lots of water! On the way up Highway 395, you might want to stop in Bishop for last minute groceries and gas, and visit Schat’s Bakery to choose from a wide variety of yummy pastries, cakes, cookies, or signature breads (hint: make sure to try the chili bacon cheese bread.. OMG!)

    Burgers 'n Brews

    Arrive in time on Thursday evening and chow down on burgers, sides, and desserts provided by Great Outdoors, and dress ‘em up the way you want with pineapple, bacon, cheese, Ortega chilis, veggies, or all of the above. Feel free to bring your favorite brew to enjoy and share with friends. (but not too much.. lots of alcohol should be avoided as you acclimate to high altitude). 

    Potluck:

    Bust out your culinary skills for the traditional potluck on Saturday evening. Please plan on a main or side dish (Great Outdoors will be providing desserts.) All other meals are on your own.

    Agenda:

    We generally are pretty freeform without a set schedule. 

    We plan to hike (probably Saturday) from Mosquito Flats starting at 9500’ (the highest vehicle accessible trailhead in the Sierra Nevada’s) , and only gains about 500 feet over approx. 4 miles, during which you see numerous high country views and lakes.

    Getting there:

    Campground is East Fork Campground, off of 395 at Tom's Place. 

    GPS 37.492709, -118.719388, Click here for a Google Map. Once you leave Bishop, it's about 21 miles further up 395, and you'll turn left at Tom's Place onto Rock Creek Road. Go another 6 miles up the canyon, and the campground will be on your left. 

    Cancellations:

    A full refund will be given if cancellation notice is sent to trip leaders by July 25th, 2019. Afterwards, a half refund will be given until August 3rd. No refunds after August 4th. 

    Trip Leaders:

    Steve Sisneros (951) 318-0530, hiknsteve@ca.rr.com

    Wes Stieringer (818) 497-8654, fwsj69@gmail.com

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  • PS - August Game Night: Gather Your Balls for BOWLING!!

    • Sat, August 17, 2019
    • 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
    • Palm Springs Lanes
    • 40

        

    IT'S BOWLING NIGHT!

    Friday August 16, 2019

    Registration for this event is limited to GO members and their guest. Nonmembers may join - click here.

    Please join us for the Great Outdoors Palm Springs BOWLING NIGHT on Saturday, August 17, 2018 from 5:30 to 8:00 pm. PLEASE ARRIVE BY 5:45 PM. BOWLING WILL COMMENCE AT 6:00 PM SHARP!  Palm Springs Lanes is located at 68051 Ramon Road in Cathedral City.  (click here for directions). 

    Each team will be comprised of 5 people. Palm Springs Lanes will provide each team free shoe rental, as well as a large pizza and soft drinks for each team (included in the cost per member).  Additional food/drinks are available at the Snack Bar on a cash basis. 

    NOTE: Please wear your GREAT OUTDOORS T-shirts!  

    The cost to members for this event is $20 per person. Guests (non GOPS members) will be charged $25 per person. Payment must be made at time of registration.  Due to prepayment requirements we have with the bowling alley, there will be no refunds if you cancel this event.

    This event is limited to 40 attendees. 

    For questions, please contact Richard Dachman via call/text 818-430-7114.

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  • SD - Free Pizza & 2020 Event Planning Meeting

    • Wed, August 21, 2019
    • 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Urbn North Park
    • 6 registrants
    Register

     
    GOSD - Free Pizza & 2020 Event Planning Meeting


    Join us on August 21st for some 2020 planning and free pizza! This is your chance to help us brainstorm the GOSD camping trips and day outings (hikes, kayaking, etc.) we want to make happen in 2020. In gratitude for your service, the pizza, salad, and non-alcoholic drinks are on us! 

    Please make sure to RSVP so that we can adjust our reservation accordingly. 

    Wednesday, August 21, 2019

    7 PM – 9 PM

    Urbn Coal Fired Pizza

     3085 University Ave, San Diego, California 92104

    (FYI, we'll be taking the results of this meeting with us to the October all-chapter Great Outdoors planning conference, where we'll match up calendars with the other chapters and finalize the 2020 trips for all 5 chapters.)


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  • OCLB - Autry Museum

    • Sun, August 25, 2019
    • 9:45 AM - 3:00 PM
    • Autry Museum
    • 9
    • 1 registrant
    Register

    Great Outdoors OC/LB Chapter presents


    Autry Museum

                                     August 25, 2019


    Contact: Doug Cable. E-mail: dccable2@verizon.net.

    Phone: (949)922-1452

    Contact: Doug Cable. E-mail: dccable2@verizon.net


     

    Arrive at 9:45 AM for 10 AM Opening

     

    The Autry Museum of the American West is  dedicated to exploring an inclusive history of the American West.  Founded in 1988, the museum presents a wide range of exhibitions and public programs, including lectures, film, theater, festivals, family events, and music, and performs scholarship, research, and educational outreach. It has two sites and attracts about 150,000 visitors annually.

    In 2013, it extensively redesigned and renovated the Irene Helen Jones Parks Gallery of Art and the Gamble Firearms Gallery in its main building. In its related opening exhibit for the Parks Gallery, Art of the West, the new organization enabled material to be presented in relation to themes rather than chronology, and paintings were shown next to crafts, photography, video and other elements in new relationships.

     

    The Autry was established in 1988 by actor and 

    businessman Gene Autry as "Gene Autry Western Heritage Museum" to explore and share the comprehensive story of the American West and its multiple cultures and interpret its significance. Its Griffith Park collection includes 21,000 paintings, sculptures, costumes, textiles, firearms, tools, toys, musical instruments, and other objects. The museum presents contemporary and historical exhibitions, year-round programs for children, intellectual forums, and the Native Voices at the Autry performing arts series.

     

    Museum Hours are from 10 AM to 5 PM on weekends.

    Address: 4700 Western Heritage Way
    Los Angeles, CA 90027-1462
    T: 323.667.2000

    Parking is free.

    Tickets are non-refundable.

    Adults: $14.00

    Seniors (60+) $10.



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  • SD - End of Summer BBQ, Hike and Pool Party

    • Sun, August 25, 2019
    • 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM

    Save the Date!!


    GOSD will hold our annual end of summer hike and pool party in Laguna Beach again this year.  We will meet at the Orange County trailhead at 10:00 am for a moderate 2-hour hike. Afterwards we will all gather at a member’s beach condo for a BBQ and pool party. GOSD will provide the food for this event. Additional details will be posted online closer to the event date.



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  • SBVC - Morro Bay State Park

    • Thu, September 05, 2019
    • Sun, September 08, 2019
    • Morro Bay State Park

    This event is being planned by one of the five Great Outdoors (GO) Chapters. For more information about this trip:

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  • SD - Core Group Elections (SAVE THE DATE)

    • Wed, September 11, 2019
    • 7:30 PM
    • TBD

    SAVE THE DATE

    We will beholding our annual elections for our core group positions. More info coming soon!!

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  • SD - Palomar Mountain Day Hike

    • Sun, September 22, 2019
    • Palomar Mountain

    This trip is currently in the planning stages by our Great Outdoors San Diego (GO-SD) Chapter. As with all trips, dates may change or the trip might be cancelled due to inability to secure site reservations. Please contact the Vice President of Outings (VPO) via email at VPO-SD@GreatOutdoors.org for further details about this overnight event.

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  • PS - Silent Valley Camp Resort

    • Thu, September 26, 2019
    • 12:00 PM
    • Sun, September 29, 2019
    • 11:00 AM
    • Silent Valley Camp, Poppet Flats
    • 13
    • 31 registrants
    Register

    Silent Valley Club is an exclusive (not open to the public) camping full service resort located 3500 feet up in the scenic San Jacinto Mountains of Southern California, between Banning and Idyllwild. Great Outdoors has arranged a special group gathering with adjacent sites and full access to all facilities and amenities. You are invited to join us for the cooler temperatures located here and spacious and wooded campground. Our first trip here was in 2017 and is back by popular demand with great reviews and feedback from our members who attended.

    Schedule of Events*

    Thursday, September 26

    • Noon - Check-in at the gate. Your name will be on the list. No guest or day use visitors allowed.
    • 2:00 pm - Pool/spa time
    • 4:00 pm - Sunset hike nearby location*
    • 5:30 pm - Tea Time meet and greet BYOB.
    • 6:00 pm - Dinner on your own (local restaurant available on site)
    • 7:00 pm - Group camp activities*

    Friday, September 27

    • 6:30 am - Coffee and continental breakfast provided
    • 9:00 am - Hike - Fuller Ridge Trail to overview** - a top rated hike!
    • 2:00 pm - Pool/spa time or other posted on camp board* 
    • 6:00 pm - Restaurant group dinner or dinner on you own.
    • 7:00 pm - Group camp activities* 

    Saturday, September 28

    • 9:00 am - Hike nearby location or visit Idyllwild* 
    • 2:00 pm - Pool/spa time or other posted on camp board* 
    • 6:30 pm - Potluck (bring a dish to share)
    • 7:00 pm - Group Camp activities* 

    Sunday, September 29

    •  9:30 am - See camp board* 
    • 11:00 am - Check-out time

    * Check campground white board for activities updates

    Amenities: Wi-Fi located at registration near restaurant, restrooms have electricity, flush toilets, running water and hot showers. All campsites have electricity, paved sites and shade. Cell service Verizon is limited and spotty. 

    THINGS TO DO

    • General Store
    • Heated swimming pools and spa
    • Pool tables
    • Restaurant
    • Laundromat
    • Cocktail lounge
    • Outdoor concerts
    • Arts & crafts activities
    • Tennis courts
    • Park-wide wireless internet for a fee
    • Biking - all areas except section B

    What to Bring:  Ten Essentials, camp chair, camping/cooking gear, food, warm/cool weather clothing, swim suit, bicycle, potluck item for Saturday night. Propane gas fire ring or tank if available. No open fires allowed. 

    RV campers: Bring water pressure regulator, the pressure is very high! All sites are full hook-up, electric, water and sewer.

    Prices: This is a 3 night, 4 day event and priced accordingly.

    Registration notes: Tents and RV's will share sites. These are large sites and room to set up tent in the grass area. Electric available for tents; bring electric extension cord. Registration will close 3 weeks prior to the event. Last day to register is September 4, 2019. All persons must register and be on the roster to be admitted at the gate. No visitors allowed.  You must be a paid GO member to attend this event.  You may apply for Membership ($25 per year) during the registration process if you wish.

    Directions:

    • I-10 to Hargrave St. in Banning. Take CA-243 to Poppet Flats. 
    • Address: 46305 Poppet Flats Road, Banning CA 92220
    • Map - Directions: click here

    Climate:  Low: 53   High: 87 Mean: 70

    Photos:  Prior trip to Silent Valley - click here

    Refunds:  Cancellation for a refund must be received before September 1.

    Contact:  Menard Jaramillo or Scott Connelly

    Pets:  Dogs are welcomed. Must be kept on leash. Please clean up after your pet. No pets at Village Center.

    ** Fuller Ridge Hike: We will take Hwy. 243 to the Black Mountain Truck Trail to the Fuller Ridge Campground/Trailhead. High clearance vehicles recommended for the 8 mile dirt Black Mountain Truck Trail.

    • Distance:  4.5 miles 
    • Total Elevation: 850'
    • Difficulty: Moderate
    • Type: Out and back 
    • Hike time:  2 – 3 hours


    Health Problems/allergies: It is the responsibility of participants to carry on their person a record of significant allergies, medications and medical history in the event of a medical emergency.  Discuss any medical concerns with the hike/trip leader if you wish.


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  • Corp - Outgoing Board Meeting

    • Fri, October 11, 2019
    • Lake Cachuma, CA
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    Great Outdoors Outgoing Board of Directors Meeting

    All Members Are Invited

    Meeting Time - TBA

    The Great Outdoors (GO) Board of Directors meets four times a year - once each quarter. The meetings usually occur in January, April, July and October.  The Board also convenes an Annual Conference each year in October.

    The Board meets to approve prior meeting minutes, review the corporation's financial state, pending committee projects/reports and what's going on in each Chapter. They also set the date for the next meeting.

    Each Chapter is responsible for sending their Chapter Representative to the meeting.

    This meeting will occur during our Annual Conference scheduled for Oct. 11-13, 2019

    At this meeting, the Nominations Committee will,,,

    Bylaw amendments...

    To ready more about our Board of Directors - click here.

    If you have any questions prior to the meeting, please email our Chair - Peter Emond-Worline at Chair@GreatOutdoors.org

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  • SBVC - 41st Annual GO All Chapter Conference

    • Fri, October 11, 2019
    • Sun, October 13, 2019
    • Lake Cachuma

    Our Santa Barbara/Ventura County Chapter Will Host The

    41st Annual Great Outdoors All Chapter Conference 

    For more information about this trip:

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  • Corp - Incoming Board Meeting

    • Sat, October 12, 2019
    • Lake Cachuma, CA
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