Upcoming Outings

    • Sat, March 21, 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • West Mesa Trailhead, Julian, CA

    Cuyamaca Peak (Cancelled due to heat)


    At 6515 feet, Cuyamaca Peak is the second highest peak in San Diego County. There are lovely views along this hike especially of Lake Cuyamaca, and there are extensive views at the peak. We will pass through pine and oak forest, meadow and chaparral. The first couple of miles are via fire roads that can be a bit steep. After that, the grade is gentle until the last 0.4 mile which is on a paved road and is very steep. This last 0.4 mile can be OPTIONAL.

    Hike Start Time and Location: 9:00am Start at the West Mesa Trailhead parking turnout. https://maps.app.goo.gl/1JcryLxmCFNAFz4j9

    Hike Length: 12 miles with optional .8mi summit push at the end

    Hike Elevation Change: 2150 ft

    Hike Difficulty Rating: Moderate to Challenging

    Estimated Hike Time: 6 Hours - 7 Hours including a nutrition stop and a lunch break

    Hike Type (out-and-back, loop, shuttle): out-and-back

    Hiking Trail Details: West Side Fire Road to Fern Flat Fire Road to West Mesa Trail to Burnt Pine Trail to Lookout Road

    Hike Specific Challenges (scrambling, narrow passages, allergens): steep sections

    Route: Start West Mesa Trailhead Parking area to West Side Fire Road and then to Fern Flat Fire Road. From there we get on the West Mesa Trail to the Burnt Pine Trail to the Lookout Road (this is the last 0.4 mile). Our return is along the same route.

    There will be a short nutrition break halfway up to the peak and then lunch at the peak.

    Parking Information: I-8 to CA-79N to Cuyamaca State Park. Continue north to the West Mesa parking area/trailhead. It is about a mile past the visitor Center/Camp Cuyamaca driveway sign. No passes are required to park at this trailhead.

    Costs involved: None

    Pets Permitted: Not permitted

    What to Bring in Addition to Your 10 Essentials*: Bring water, snack, lunch, and your ten essentials. There are no rest rooms.

    Who to Contact with Questions: Trip Leader Scott Opis [email protected] or 202-257-2833

    *Note on the 10 essentials - The 10 essentials are a collection or system of items that significantly increase your safety on any hike or outdoors trip. This is not an exhaustive list of anything you could ever need. You can visit the link included Here but one version of this list is as follows:

    1. Navigation

    2. Headlamp

    3. Sun Protection

    4. First Aid

    5. Knife

    6. Fire

    7. Shelter

    8. Extra food

    9. Extra water

    10. Extra clothes


    Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

    Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.

    • Sat, March 21, 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
    • Zoom online
    Register

    How to create events on GO WildApricot website.

    We will review setting up and managing events:

    • Event details and formatting
    • Registration ticket types & settings
    • Emails
    • Managing registrants
    • Waitlist settings

    You'll get practical tips and have the opportunity to bring your specific questions. 

    Great Outdoors Event Manager Manual: Click Here

    This is for all WildApricot Event Managers with administrative access and any members who plan to have access and would like to learn the process.

    Zoom meeting access link will be in confirmation and reminder emails.

    Contact: Elizabeth Schneider, Chair Outdoor Experience: email click here


    • Sat, March 21, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • 1650 Crescent Heights St in Signal Hill (Long Beach)
    • 17
    Register

    Great Outdoors

    Orange County/Long Beach Chapter

    presents:

    Walking Tour:

    Crescent Heights

    Historic District.

    Saturday, March 21, 2026, 10:00 AM


    Tour begins at the Historic Green House

    1650 Crescent Heights St.

    in Signal Hill.

    The tour focuses on the Historic Crescent Heights neighborhood, right in the middle of an oil field and the city.  


    This will be led by Joe Holliday, an experienced tour guide, and includes homeowner speakers and a walking tour through one or two historic houses.


    Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun screen, sun glasses and a liter of water.


    Trip Leader: Joe Holiday

    Email: [email protected]

    Phone: 562-417-4742

    Sponsored by the Signal Hill Historical Society

    • Sat, March 21, 2026
    • 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
    • Palm Springs, CA (Address to be provided once you have registered)
    • 5
    Register


    Michael Keller has invited us all to his Palatial home in Palm Springs for Game Night on Saturday, March 21st, 2026.

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

    Note: You must be a Great Outdoors Member to attend this event. Guests without prior membership and registration will NOT be allowed in. You cannot join at the door.

    Location: Palm Springs, CA (Address to be provided once you have registered)

    SCHEDULE:

    4:00 PM to 5:00 PM - Check In and SOCIAL PERIOD

    5:00 PM to 6:00 PM – POTLUCK DINNER 

    6:00 PM to 8:00 PM – GAME TIME

    WHAT TO BRING:

    1) Potluck Item for at least 4 people. 

    2) Your own beverage(s) Great Outdoors provides water and ice.

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

    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.

    Two volunteers are needed to help set up before the party. Volunteers get a free ride on the food!

    Our chapter is always looking for Game Night Hosts!

    Please text Robert Varga at (760) 641-9112 or email [email protected] 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.

    Great Outdoor encourages members to be vaccinated against COVID-19. 

    Health Problems/allergies Discuss any medical concerns with the event leader if you wish.

    Thank you for participating in the Great Outdoors club!

    • Sun, March 22, 2026
    • 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Whitewater Preserve
    Register

    The Coachella Valley Hiking Club—whose dedicated hike leaders and unwavering support make this journey to fund a cure for cancer possible—produce HIKE4HOPE each year in support of the City of Hope, a leading cancer research center located in Southern California. The results of their research is made available to hospitals throughout the Coachella Valley and the world. They were the creators of synthetic insulin, have one of the few patients in the world cured of Aids, and do instrumental work to find cures for pancreatic, ovarian, and blood cancers.

    Choose from six hikes of various lengths and elevations all taking place at Whitewater Preserve.  Join the Great Outdoors team and select the hike of your choice at this link and click on JOIN TEAM.

    Registering in the Great Outdoors system is an expression of interest only.  It does not register you to hike in this event.

    © 1981 - 2026 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy

    • Sun, March 22, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Coronado Marriott Wellness Center
    Register

    San Diego Outdoor Pickleball!


    Join Us for Pickleball on Coronado!

    Ready for some light-hearted pickleball fun? Great Outdoors San Diego (GOSD) and Rainbow Picklers team up every other Sunday for a friendly morning of play. All skill levels welcome—newbies included! Just bring a paddle, water, and sunscreen. 

    Date & Time: Every other Sunday 10:00–11:50am
    Location: Pickleball courts at the Coronado Marriott Wellness Center (just inside the main entrance, to the right)

    Cost: $8 per person to play
    Parking: Free street parking – or $5 on-site for 2.5 hours with validation at the Wellness Center

    How to RSVP

    1. Register here through the GOSD event page.

    2. Download the “Spond” app: https://www.spond.com/en-us/

    3. Use the Rainbow Picklers Group Link to request access to the group: https://spond.com/invite/TYFKT

    4. One of the group admins will approve your request. Please allow 48 hours for approval.

    5. RSVP for each game via the Spond app. (Registration closes at 9am Friday before each Sunday game so we can secure the right number of courts. Late cancellations or no-shows are still responsible for the $8 court fee.)

    We hope to see you on the courts!


    Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

    Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations, including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.

    • Sun, March 22, 2026
    • 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • Deane Dana Friendship Park and Nature Center
    • 14
    Register


    LA / OC-LB – Double the Friendship Hike & Picnic

    Sunday, March 22 | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM

    Deane Dana Friendship Park and Nature Center

    1850 W. 9th Street, San Pedro, CA 90732

    Meet at 11:00 AM in the parking lot

    Orientation & introductions at 11:00 AM

    Hike begins promptly at 11:15 AM

    Distance: 1.5–2 miles

    Difficulty: Easy to light-moderate (a few short uphill sections)

    Registration: Free — advance registration required (limit 40 participants)

    Two chapters. One hilltop. Big views. Even better company.

    Join LA and OC/Long Beach Great Outdoors members for a scenic, easy-to-light-moderate social hike followed by a picnic at Deane Dana Friendship Park. Coastal panoramas, harbor views, and new connections — this is a spring gathering you won’t want to miss.


    WHY THIS EVENT IS SPECIAL

    This “Double the Friendship” event brings together members and guests from both the Los Angeles and Orange County/Long Beach chapters for a relaxed, primarily social spring gathering in one of the South Bay’s most scenic locations.

    Perched above the coastline, Deane Dana Friendship Park offers sweeping views of San Pedro Bay, the Port of Long Beach, Catalina Island (on clear days), and the beginning of the Rancho Palos Verdes peninsula. It’s a uniquely beautiful setting that makes this hike feel special.

    We’ll begin with a comfortable, well-mapped 1.5–2 mile hike through rolling grasslands and native coastal landscape. While there are a few short uphill stretches, they are manageable and on very user-friendly paths — suitable for most hikers comfortable with easy to slightly moderate terrain.

    After the hike, we’ll gather in the park’s designated picnic area (tables and benches provided) for a bring-your-own lunch/and if you'd like something to share and extended social time.

    And don’t worry about dessert — Great Outdoors will be taking care of that!

    Important: The park requires us to use the picnic tables provided. Please do not bring lawn blankets or additional chairs.

    We’ll conclude with an optional 15–20 minute visit inside the Nature Center to view the exhibits.

    Whether you’re a longtime member or a first-time guest, this is a wonderful opportunity to meet new friends, reconnect with familiar faces, and strengthen the connection between our chapters.

    WHAT TO BRING

    • Water in a reusable bottle
    • Sun protection
    • Sturdy footwear
    • Emergency contact information
    • Bring-your-own picnic lunch. If you'd like you may also bring something to share.
    • Great Outdoors will cover the dessert!

    CARPOOL / RIDESHARE

    Please carpool if possible — every little bit helps!

    Due to liability and insurance requirements, Great Outdoors cannot formally organize carpools. Members may independently arrange rides using the following link:

    [Carpool Link]

    Another Carpool Option (Long Beach Area):

    Participants interested in carpooling from Long Beach may meet at:

    Hot Java Coffeehouse

    2101 E. Broadway, Long Beach, CA 90803

    Please arrive no later than 10:15 AM to coordinate rides.

    If the Great Outdoors group isn’t immediately obvious, look for a large table near the window by the Broadway entrance. At least John (see photo below) will be there.

    HIKE LEADERS:


    Leader:  John Blasco – Great Outdoors Los Angeles Chapter, (562) 726-4165,  [email protected]


    Co-Leader: Robert Sandoval - Great Outdoors OC-LB Chapter, (323) 829-1963, [email protected]


    © 1981 - 2026 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC.
    a 501(c)(7) not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQIA+ and Allies organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved. Privacy policy
    • Tue, March 24, 2026
    • 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
    • The Center, 1301 N. Palm Canyon, Palm Springs - Third Floor
    • 0
    Join waitlist


     Speaker Series:

    Why are there mountains here? Where does the water come from? Why is there so much granite?

    Come join Darin Furry as he gives an updated presentation about the geology, geography, and water here in the Coachella Valley.


    This presentation will be held before our monthly Core Group meeting located at:

    The LGBTQ Center Center: 1301 North Palm Canyon Dr., Room 3, Floor 3, Palm Springs 92262

    Light refreshments will be provided before the presentation.

    For questions about the event, contact Dennis Curran at [email protected] 

    PLEASE NOTE: DUE TO CAPACITY REQUIREMENTS OF THE ROOM, WE MUST LIMIT THE NUMBER OF ATTENDEES. ADDITIONALLY, ONLY ONE GUEST REGISTRATION PER INDIVIDUAL IS ALLOWED.

    IF THE EVENT IS FULL, PLEASE REGISTER ON THE WAITLIST.  IN MOST CASES THERE ARE CANCELLATIONS PRIOR TO THE EVENT AND WE CAN USUALLY ACCOMMODATE EVERYONE.

    • Tue, March 24, 2026
    • 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
    • Room 3, Floor 3, LGBTQ Community Center, 1301 North Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs and Online using Zoom
    • 19
    Register


    GOPS Monthly Core Group Meetings are usually held on the fourth Tuesday of each month starting at 6:30 pm, subject to change due to holidays and conflicting events. Meetings can be attended online via Zoom each month. Meetings are held simultaneously in-person in January,  March,  May,  July,  September and November 2026. In-person meetings are held at the Center, 3rd floor Meeting Room 3, 1301 North Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs, CA.

    Check the event registration details for the date and the particulars of the meeting.

    GOPS members can attend by registering for the meeting. For best results in attending via Zoom, plan to use a computer or tablet equipped with a camera and microphone. Information on how to enter the Zoom meeting will be provided to registrants in their Confirmation and Reminder emails.

    • Wed, March 25, 2026
    • 8:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Palm Springs Indian Canyons
    Register

    This hike leaves from the Trading Post inside Indian Canyons and follows the Palm Canyon trail to the Stone Pools.   

    The hike is 6 miles, with 1200' elevation gain. Rated moderately strenuous - will generally be challenging for an unconditioned person. The terrain will involve a steady and often steep incline.

    We will meet in the parking lot adjacent to the Trading Post around 8:15. You should be at the gate before it opens at 8:00 AM. It is located at the very southern end of South Palm Canyon Drive. Admission is $12 per person, $7 per senior (62+), and free for military (with valid ID).  Tickets can be bought in advance online.

    Contact Hike Leader: Howard G. Email click here

    Bring Ten Essentials (click here), water (2-3 liters recommended), trail snacks. Sun protection and layered clothing are recommended. Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE). Hiking poles may be helpful.

    Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required. Hiking Requirements - you will need to be in good physical condition for this hike.  Click here for more information.

    Potential hazards: Steep climbs, rocky terrain, path narrowing near desert plants with thorns and needles. 

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

    Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.

    © 1981 - 2026 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQIA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved. 

    • Thu, March 26, 2026
    • 7:20 AM - 1:30 PM
    • Joshua Tree National Park
    Join waitlist

    Ranger Guided Tour - Discover the colorful lives of Bill and Frances Keys and learn how they survived and raised a family in the harsh desert environment on the Keys Ranch Tour. Explore the ranch house, school room, store, workshop, and more treasures from the 60 years the Keys called this area home. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975, the property is located in a remote, rocky canyon in Joshua Tree National Park.   Access to this area is limited to Ranger guided tours only. This is a great opportunity to see an area that is not open to the public and travel back in time to the early days of the park. Tours last approximately 120 minutes and involve 1/2 mile of walking.

    Fees: Park Entrance fees apply, $30 a vehicle, Park Senior or Annual passes no charge 

    Bring lunch. After the tour, we will gather at a nearby picnic area for lunch and a short hike; either Cap Rock or Hidden Valley picnic areas, depending on availability.

    7:20 am Meet at Palm Springs PetSmart Ramon/Crossley Map for 7:30 am departure.

    Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver.  You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share. 

    Keys Ranch tours begin at the Keys Ranch locked gate and parking area (not at the visitor center). Do not rely exclusively on your mobile GPS, Siri, or similar automated navigation systems for directions to Keys Ranch as routes can be misleading or incorrect. Please be at the Keys Ranch gate 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time. Tours begin promptly at the start time and the locked gate will be opened. You will continue driving down the road to a second parking area where the walking tour begins. Once all the cars are through the gate, it will be locked. There is no way for latecomers to join.

    Directions to the Keys Ranch Gate - click here

    Tour Start Time: 9:30 AM End Time: 11:30 AM

    Payment:  You need to complete credit card payment within 15 minutes or you will be timed out and will need to start over.  No refunds.

    Registration :Available to nonmembers and guests 

    Cancel: If you cannot attend, please notify the trip leader  as others may be on the waitlist. No refunds available.

    Contact trip leader: Scott- email click here

    Joshua Tree National Park and Great Outdoors Palm Springs acknowledges the 15 associated tribal communities as the original stewards of the land on which Joshua Tree National Park now sits. We pay our respect to the people past, present and emerging who have been here since time immemorial.

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

    • Thu, March 26, 2026
    • 5:15 PM - 7:15 PM
    • Ventura Hills Nature Preserve
    Register


    SB/VC - Sunset Hike @ Ventura Hills Nature Preserve

    As the golden hour descends upon the coast, it’s time to lace up those boots and experience the Ventura Hills Nature Preserve like never before. With the park now officially open as of January 2026, we have a front-row seat to the rolling vistas and crisp spring air that make our backyard so spectacular. There is nothing quite like watching the sky transform into a canvas of amber and violet from the highest ridgelines, and we want you there to share the view.

    Join the crew on Thursday, March 26, for a moderate trek timed perfectly to catch the sun dipping below the Pacific. It’s the perfect mid-week reset—fresh air, great company, and the kind of panoramic views that remind us why we love this area. Whether you’re a seasoned trailblazer or just looking for a scenic stroll to end your day, grab your gear and let’s make some memories under the fading light.


    Parking is in the parking lot off Hall Road (address below). We must be out of the lot by sundown so our vehicles don’t get locked inside. We will meet at the trailhead. We will start promptly at 5:15pm so don’t be late, or else catch up with us on the trail if you want.

    Parking: 2805 Hall Canyon Rd, Ventura (Behind Ventura H.S.)

    Distance: 2 - 3 miles

    Elevation Gain: 802 feet

    Estimated time: 120 minutes

    Bring: Headlamp (just in case), water, jacket, snack

    Hike Leader: Chris F. (805) 509-8240


    • Fri, March 27, 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
    • Home of Steve and Scott, Santa Barbara, CA
    • 11
    Register

    In Man in an Orange Shirt two entwined yet separate stories illustrate the very different challenges to happiness for two gay couples in England -- Michael and Thomas in the aftermath of World War II and Adam and Steve in the present day. Although they are set decades apart, the two stories are linked by family and a painting that holds a secret that is carried down from one generation to the next. Scripted by best-selling novelist Patrick Gale, the program features Vanessa Redgrave as a grandmother struggling with her relationship with her gay grandson.


    Come indoors for a fun-filled Great Outdoors movie night Bring your favorite dish to share, and settle in for a night of good food, good film, and great company.  BYOB.  (Please bring only light-colored beverages -- no red wine or cranberry juice, i.e. nothing dark that might stain furnishings.)

    Space is limited; registration is required. The movie night location address will be sent to all registered attendees.

    Date: Friday, March 27
    Time: 6:00PM potluck supper and social hour; 7:00+ movie begins
    Location: Home of Steve and Scott, just outside Santa Barbara


    • Sat, March 28, 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA 92027
    Register

    SAN DIEGO SAFARI PARK/SOCIAL

    This year we will be hiking through the famous San Diego Safari Park on Saturday Mar 28th @ 9:00am. We will hike through the park in its entirety including taking a ride on the Africa Tram. Tickets/membership should be purchased prior to the event. If this is an event you would like to participate in but cannot access it due to finances, please reach out to KJ Archer at [email protected]

    San Diego Zoo Safari Park - Wikipedia

    Details: We will hike through the park going counter-clockwise

    Host: KJ Archer (619-214-6353)

    RSVP: Please RSVP so I know how many to expect. If we have a large group, please mask/social distance, as needed.

    Meeting Location: 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA 92027

    https://maps.app.goo.gl/LgYq5MSbDxM2GZ4J7

    Meeting Date & Time: Saturday Mar 28th @ 9:00am inside the front entrance at the map stand - We will plan to leave from the inside of the park entrance at 9:15am.

    Parking: Parking is $20/vehicle for standard and $45/vehicle for preferred parking. Carpooling is recommended to keep costs down.

    Cost: Self purchased membership/tickets required for entry

    Time Commitment: Plan for approx. 4-6 hours, group dependent  



    Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

    Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.

    • Sat, March 28, 2026
    • 11:00 AM - 2:30 PM
    • Westward Beach Parking Lot
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Point Dume to Paradise Cove Café

    When: March 28, 2026, 11:00 AM 

    Join us for an exciting coastal hike. We begin at Westward Beach, over Point Dume, down approximately 200 stairs to the sand, and proceed to Paradise Cove Beach Café for lunch. Our hike is along the base of sea cliffs and is only possible during very low tides. This is an exciting Malibu experience, combining breathtaking coastal scenery with a beachside cafe frequented by celebrities. We will have plenty of stops to look for whales, dolphins, and sea lions. When looking at the tide pools please do not touch any of the animals, actually it is against the law, and be extra careful where you step.

    The return may have to be on top of the bluff, through the ritzy, star-studded neighborhoods but preferably along the sand and back up the stairs.

    When: March 28, 2026, 11:00 AM 

    Directions: Westward Beach Parking Lot, Pacific Coast Highway to the end of Westward Beach Road

    Meeting point: Drive to the end of Westward Beach Rd. and park, $8.00. We will meet at the end of the parking lot just beyond the restrooms.

    Hiking Distance: ~5 miles total

    Difficulty: Moderate, lengthy stairs,  beach walking on sand and rocks and a short hike up and over Point Dume.

    Bring: Water, Snacks, Beach friendly shoes with grip for stairs, hat/sunscreen, towel or beach gear if you’re hanging after the hike, binoculars

    Brunch: Paradise Cove Café  Credit cards accepted.

    Wrap-up: 2-3PM

    Optional: Hang out on the beach afterward! ️

    Low tide timing looks perfect!  We should have a smooth walk in the coves and around the points—just be prepared for a little bit of sea spray and beachy fun.

    Can’t wait to have this adventure with you all!

    Registration is free but required.  Participants must have registered to sign the mandatory liability release for which is part of the online registration process.

    If you register and then cannot go, please be respectful of others who wish to go by canceling your registration online ASAP to open up spaces. 

    If you have additional questions about this event, please email the trip leader at the address shown below.

    Trip Leader: Russell Hammerl [email protected]


    Point Dume to the beach below these cliffs.


    These stairs were completed in mid 2022 for a cost of 3.3 million.  Don’t be intimidated, we will take it slow.


    Looking back to Westward Beach from Point Dume.  A west facing beach is unusual in Malibu as most face south.  Zuma is next beach faintly seen in the distance.


    Natalie Wood and Robert Wagner loved Paradise Cove and spent their honeymoon on their yacht in the cove. Perhaps we will see a current member of the glitterati.


    A very low tide is required to do this hike. There are few opportunities of such a very low tide happening each year.


    In the spring this prehistoric looking plant, the coreopsis, comes alive and is covered with beautiful yellow flowers. It only grows near Point Dume and a couple of points on the Channel Islands. Let’s protect it and other species by staying on the trails.

    Trip Leader: Russell Hammerl [email protected]


    © 1981 - 2026 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC.,

    a 501(c)(7) not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQIA+ and Allies organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved. Privacy policy

    • Sat, March 28, 2026
    • 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • Demuth Community Center 3601 East Mesquite Ave Palm Springs, CA 92264
    Register

    Grear Outdoors Palm Springs will unite with our community and support Trans Pride 2026!

    This great event allows us the opportunity to represent GOPS and is part of our mission to be inclusive of all members of our community..

    Join us at our table and represent GOPS, meet the event guests and provide information about Great Outdoors Palm Springs.

    To volunteer, select REGISTER, and then choose the time slot that you would like to staff our table. You can also just register without volunteering. Bring friends and guests.



    Saturday, March 28th, 2026

    • Set up 10:00 - 11:00 (coordinators only) 
    • 11:00 am - 1:00 pm
    • 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
    • 2:30 pm - 3:00 pm (includes tear down)
    Contact Coordinator: Jeff C. click here
    • Sat, March 28, 2026
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Samueli Theater 600 Town Center Dr, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
    Register

    Great Outdoors OCLB invites you to:

    Broadway Divas Drag Show

    Saturday March 28 at 7:00 PM

    (There is also a Sunday evening show)

     Samueli Theater at Segerstrom

    Tickets are available on the Segerstrom website!

    Link for tickets 


    Back by popular demand: SoCal’s fiercest drag queens, Segerstrom Center’s very own Broadway Divas! After several sold-out drag brunches here, these queens are back in Samueli Theater for two larger-than-life shows complete with extravagant costumes, choreographed performances, brilliant sets, and more.

    Don’t miss out as these queens serve looks, laughs, and legendary lip syncs of your favorite Broadway showtunes—tickets are on sale now starting at $34*!

    * All tickets include a complimentary glass of champagne (21+) and the opportunity to meet the queens after the show.

    Note from your host: Do yourself a favor and see this show!  It is a truly memorable experience.  The Broadway Divas are incredibly talented and put on a crowd pleasing show!  I've never seen anything like it!

    There is a wonderful Great Outdoors connection as Miss Clair Voyance (aka Garrett) is the nephew of OCLB member Burnel Patterson!  

    Starring

    Miss Clair Voyance

    Leeko Rae

    April Showers

    Mama St. Merman

    Big Deelish

    Dolly Levi

    and more!




    Artists and program subject to change. Recommended for ages 21+.

    If you have any questions about this event, please do not hesitate to reach out to the Trip Leader.

    Richard Norman

    Email: [email protected]

    626-319-4740

    • Sun, March 29, 2026
    • 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
    • Start at Ruth Hardy Park
    Join waitlist

    Beginning at Ruth Hardy Park this ride will head north to access the north terminus of the CV Link on Rt. 111, north of San Rafael Dr.

    Coasting downhill past wind farms to the Gene Autry and Vista Chino traffic light crossings and then the Ramon and Dinah Shore underpasses allows an almost continuous ride to the 34th St. exit to Demuth Park. From Demuth we will follow the Link west along Mesquite to the Sunrise underpass. Heading north through the Warm Sands and Baristo neighborhoods for a return to the start, at RHP.

    Meet Location: Ruth Hardy Park Tennis Court Parking Lot. Map click here. Parking is available along Via Miraleste and Tachevah as well as in the park.

    Distance: This is a 20 mile loop! Be conscious of your cycling abilities!

    You should consider yourself a confident street cyclist to enjoy this ride. From the start we will have a chance to use our gears and power assists as there are uphill portions through Racquet Club West, west along San Rafael and north along Rt. 111 from the PS Visitor’s Center to the Link access.

    There are a few major intersection crossings at traffic lights.

    Bring: water, sunscreen, snacks and emergency contact information. You may want to bring a tire pump, spare tube, and bike tools.

    All riders are strongly encouraged to wear helmetsInflate your tires to the recommended PSI. Don't forget, when checking your tires, to re-adjust your seat height in order to get your best leg extension while riding.

    Contact: leader Bill B. click here.

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

    • Sun, March 29, 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • Iron Mountain Trail off 67 and Poway Road
    Register

    Iron Mountain Hike

    9am at Iron Mountain Trail off 67 and Poway Road

    Iron Mountain - Hiking San Diego County

    Join us for our monthly San Diego excursion. This week we will be hiking the Iron Mountain Trail on Sunday March 29th at 10am. It is a 5.2 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Poway, California that features scenic views. This is a moderate 5.2 mile in-and-out hike with around 1100 feet in elevation change. This is an open invite to members or non-members (and their pups!) and does not require an RSVP. Please be sure to mask-up/social distance, as appropriate.

    Hike Start Time and Location: 9am at trailhead 

    Hike Length: 5.2 miles

    Hike Elevation Change: 1100’ total elevation gain

    Hike Difficulty Rating: Moderate 

    Estimated Hike Time: ~3-4 hours 

    Hike Type (out-and-back, loop, shuttle): Out and back

    Parking Information: We will take the Iron Mountain Trail off 67 and Poway Road near Poway, CA. Parking lot at trailhead with restrooms. https://goo.gl/maps/oZXQg5haJNtqZjxTA 

    Costs involved: Free

    Pets Permitted: Yes

    Who to Contact with Questions: Tyler Roosden 651.497.1611

    *Note on the 10 essentials - The 10 essentials are a collection or system of items that significantly increase your safety on any hike or outdoors trip. This is not an exhaustive list of anything you could ever need. You can visit the link included Here but one version of this list is as follows:

    1. Navigation

    2. Headlamp

    3. Sun Protection

    4. First Aid

    5. Knife

    6. Fire

    7. Shelter

    8. Extra food

    9. Extra water

    10. Extra clothes


    Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

    Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.

    • Sun, March 29, 2026
    • 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Bixby Park, 130 Cherry Ave, Long Beach, CA 90802
    Register

    TDOV Resource Fair 2026

    Transgender Day Of Visibility

    A GO-OCLB Community Outreach Event!


    WHEN?

    Sunday - March 29, 12 p.m. - 4 p.m. 

    ABOUT Long Beach TDOV?

    Event Details
    Date: Sunday, March 29
    Location: Bixby Park, 130 Cherry Ave, Long Beach, CA 90802
    Schedule:
        12:00 PM: Resource Fair Begins
        1:00 PM: Entertainment
        2:00 PM: Remarks & Guest Speakers
        4:00 PM: Event Ends

    The Resource Fair during Trans Day of Visibility will be a time to celebrate the lives and existence of the transgender and gender-expansive community in Long Beach!


    What Is TDOV?

    Transgender Day of Visibility (TDOV) is on March 31st annually because activist Rachel Crandall created it in 2009 to celebrate living trans people, contrasting with the mournful Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR), and chose a spring date far from TDOR (November) and Pride Month (June) for balance.

    It's a day to honor trans and gender non-conforming people's achievements and raise awareness about the discrimination and violence they still face, with the goal of promoting acceptance and celebrating their lives. 

    What Could I Do To Help Out?

    JUST SHOW UP TO SAY HI!   STAY AND GREET THOSE WHO STOP AT OUR TABLE.  

    GOOCLB will have a table and will be greeting enthusiast of The Great Outdoors.  We hope that we will encourage visitors to our table to join our chapter, or at least take a card to share it with someone from the LGBTQIA+ community who would benefit from learning about us.

    If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Robert, Lance or Richard.  We will be there and hope to see you their as well.

    Robert:  [email protected]

    Lance (President):  [email protected]

    Richard: (VPO):  [email protected]
    • Mon, March 30, 2026
    • 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Near Whitewater Preserve
    Register

    Toutain canyon and waterfall is a short but moderately challenging hike to a beautiful waterfall in Toutain Canyon (adjacent to Whitewater Canyon Preserve). We follow the stream bed, traversing river rubble at the mouth of the canyon, passing through shaded cottonwood and sycamore glens, and walking across mats of wild grapevines to reach the waterfall. Includes multiple stream crossings (one-stride wide) and some travel in damp stream bed (water level very shallow). 

    • Distance: 2.5 mi
    • Elevation Gain/Loss:  400
    • Difficulty Rating: Moderate challenging due to terrain conditions. Stream crossings and thick low hanging vines.
    • 8:30 AM Meet in the Palm Springs Walmart/Petsmart parking lot at Ramon and Crossley map here
    • or 9:00 AM at the Tukut trailhead parking lot Map click here. This lot is located prior to the Preserve main parking lot.

    Bring: Ten Essentials, water, sun protection, layered clothing, hiking poles may be helpful. Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE). Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required. Ask leader about dogs in advance.

    Hiking Requirements - You will need to be in good physical condition for this hike. Click here for more information.

    Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging you own transportation or ride share. Arrive a few minutes early for briefing and carpooling. 

    Weather forecastclick here

    Contact hike leader: Kirk O. Email

    Cancel: If you cannot make a hike for which you have registered please cancel as others may be on the waitlist. You may cancel directly from your profile settings or notify the hike leader.

    Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.

    The canyon was named after Joe Toutain, who owned a ranch in the area until 1930 (when he sold it), and lived in Iron Canyon, a canyon on the north side of the Whitewater Canyon Road, between Bonnie Bell and the Whitewater Preserve Visitor Centre (the mouth of that canyon is visible from the road).

    Joe Toutain is remembered as a Constable who was a member of the posse that tracked Willie Boy. You can find good information about the Willie Boy story at the following link:

    https://www.ucr.edu/magazine/summer-2023/willie-boy


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


    © 1981 - 2026 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy


    • Thu, April 02, 2026
    • 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • Joshua Tree National Park Cottonwood Entrance
    Join waitlist

    The trail to Lost Palms Oasis in Joshua Tree National Park begins at the east end of Cottonwood Springs Oasis Road near the southern entrance of the park. The oasis is reported as the largest or second largest in JTNP and is reached by an in and out trail with an optional short loop down into the oasis. The trail has crests with views of the Salton Sea, Santa Rosa, and Mt San Jacinto, with dips into arroyos where sand and water may be encountered. Wildflowers often accent the landscape that is full of desert plants, wildlife, and (surprise!) rocks.

    At 3.5 miles into the hike, the official trail ends. Hikers will have the option to pick a perch and admire the oasis from above, or hike down into the oasis for a closer look. The oasis loop is the most challenging part of the hike, as the route is steep, with loose rocks, and palm frond debris. Plan lunch for the oasis stop.

    • Trail Length: 7.4 mile plus 0.5 miles for oasis loop
    • Total elevation gain: 1500'
    • Difficulty Rating: moderate plus
    • Trail Type: Out and back.
    • Hiking Time: 4.5 hours
    • Distance to trailhead approximately 51 miles.

    Departure Time: 8 a.m.

    Departure Location: Near PetSmart and Walmart Gas - Ramon/Crossley, Palm Springs: Map. Arrive a few minutes early for a prompt 8 a.m. departure.

    Fees/Charges: Joshua Tree has an entrance fee. Bring your park pass or share a ride with a pass holder.

    Hiking Requirements: Although the trail is mostly rolling hills, except for several arroyos and the final steep descent into the oasis, the elevation is around 3,000 feet, so you will need to be in good physical condition for this hike. Click here for more information.

    What to Bring: Ten Essentials (click here). Water (2 to 3 liters recommended), lunch, and trail snacks. Sun protection and layered clothing. Emergency Contact Information (ICE). Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread.

    Contact leader:  Howard G. Email click here

    Carpooling - is encouraged and may be available if offered by a driver. You are responsible for arranging you own transportation or ride share. Arrive early for briefing and carpooling. 

    Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels

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

    © 1981 - 2026 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy


    • Fri, April 03, 2026
    • 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM
    • IHOP Restaurant 34199 Monterey Ave, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
    Register

    NOTE LOCATION:  THE IHOP IN PALM SPRINGS HAS PERMANENTLY CLOSED, SO WE WILL MEET AT THE IHOP IN RANCHO MIRAGE NEAR HOME DEPOT.

    Hike, bike, and day activities planning meeting. We meet in the back room for breakfast. We will review the calendar for the next 3 or 4 months and schedule accordingly. 

    If you are unable to attend, you may submit your hike, bike or other event and we will work to get them scheduled. Contact VP of Outings click here. 

    Activities to consider other than hiking and biking are welcome.


    Check out the listing of hikes in the Santa Rosa National Monument on the Friends of Desert Mountains website:

    https://www.desertmountains.org/trails/



    • Sat, April 04, 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Puente Hills Preserve, Whittier CA
    • 14
    Register

    Great Outdoors OCLB

    Moderate Day Hike to Workman Hill via Worsham Canyon Trail in the Puente Hills Preserve

    This is a MODERATELY STRENUOUS hike

    Approx. 4.3 miles / 925' elevation gain

    Saturday April 4, 2025

    9:00 AM to 11:30 AM

    Please join me for another day hike in the Puente Hills Preserve.  The trailhead is located off the 605 freeway in beautiful Whittier and is an easy 30-minute drive from Long Beach.

    NOTE: All photos are from the same hike in 2025

    This loop hike is considered moderately strenuous at only 4.3 miles in length but it does have two steep sections, one at the beginning and the other about 1/3 of the way.  After that its pretty level and then downhill on the return.  There is very little shade on the trail so please wear a hat and sunscreen.


    Our destination is Workman Hill (1391') which is named after William Workman (1839-1918).  Workman was a two-term mayor of Los Angeles, banker and businessman.



    From Workman Hill we will have a 360 degree view obstructed only by the relatively new 500kv power lines from the  Tehachapi Renewable Transmission Project (TRTP). These electric transmission lines are capable of carrying 4,500 megawatts of electricity (enough energy to supply three million homes) from renewable and other generators in Kern County south to San Bernardino County.

    The varied terrain and elevation provide opportunities for a unique trail experience and for scenic views of the surrounding landscape. As a result, this area is extremely popular, particularly with cyclists. This area also features many different plant communities and uncommon species, such as Catalina mariposa lily, Plummer’s mariposa lily, and gray fox.


    Where Do We Begin?

    13895 Philadelphia St, Whittier, CA 90601

    There is plenty of street parking as its a residential neighborhood.

    Link to Trailhead in Google Maps

    NOTE: There are no restrooms anywhere on the hike or at the trailhead.


    What to Bring

    You should bring snacks, water (2 to 3 liters), sunscreen and hat. Sturdy shoes/boots are recommended as well as hiking poles if you use them.

    Click here for the list of ten essentials


    OPTIONAL - Lunch After the Hike


    Any Questions?

    If you have any questions about this event, please do not hesitate to reach out to me, your trip leader:

    Richard Norman


    Email:  [email protected] 

    If there are any last-minute day-of cancellations,

    please let me know via text:

    626-319- 4740

    Carpooling is recommended to help reduce gas, cost and the environment.

    If you cannot attend, please cancel your registration, so the next person on the waiting list can have a chance to register.

    • Sat, April 04, 2026
    • 10:15 AM - 12:00 PM
    • 101 Museum Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    The Palm Springs Art Museum recently opened a LGBTQ+ themed  permanent gallery — the only one of its kind in the nation. This dedicated space was created to explore themes that emerge when you see works by multiple queer artists together. It becomes much easier to understand the range and complexity of a queer perspective in art when you can look at a collection rather than individual pieces, especially when explained by a trained museum docent. Although the museum will soon begin offering public tours of this gallery, they will be first come, first served and not reservable in advance.

    Join us for a private docent-led tour of this gallery at a very special price. The usual $500 private docent tour fee has been waived, and museum admission for non-members has been reduced from the regular $25 charge. (Admission is free for museum members.) After the tour, participants are welcome to explore the rest of the museum including LIVS, the restaurant in the sculpture garden, run by the same chef as Bar Cecil. If you would like to be included in the optional group lunch reservation, please indicate this when you register.  LIVS will seat us in 4 tables of six, every 15 minutes, until we are all seated.  

    Due to museum requirements, the last day to register for the tour OR cancel registration is March 27 (if space is still available).

    Allow time to arrive at the museum, park, and enter the building by 10:15 AM.

    Trip Leader: Kirk O. e-mail click here

    • Sat, April 04, 2026
    • 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Palm Springs, CA (Address to be provided once you have registered)
    • 0
    Join waitlist


    Malte and Kemkit have invited us to their equisite home in Palm Springs for Game Night on Saturday, April 4th, 2026.

    NOTE: This event will have a maximum capacity of 35 people

    Note: You must be a Great Outdoors Member to attend this event. Guests without prior membership and registration will NOT be allowed in. You cannot join at the door.

    Location: Palm Springs, CA (Address to be provided once you have registered)

    SCHEDULE:

    4:00 PM to 5:00 PM - Check In and SOCIAL PERIOD

    5:00 PM to 6:00 PM – POTLUCK DINNER 

    6:00 PM to 9:00 PM – GAME TIME

    WHAT TO BRING:

    1) Potluck Item for at least 4 people. 

    2) Your own beverage(s) Great Outdoors provides water and ice.

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

    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.

    Two volunteers are needed to help set up before the party. Volunteers get a free ride on the food!

    Our chapter is always looking for Game Night Hosts!

    Please text Robert Varga at (760) 641-9112 or email [email protected] 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.

    Great Outdoor encourages members to be vaccinated against COVID-19. 

    Health Problems/allergies Discuss any medical concerns with the event leader if you wish.

    Thank you for participating in the Great Outdoors club!

    • Sun, April 05, 2026
    • 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • Joshua Tree Park
    Register

    Berdoo Canyon offers a variety of trail conditions for 4x4 off road training. We will discuss and demonstrate off road techniques, safety, and equipment recommendations. You will have an opportunity to practice tire placement for obstacles and a variety of driving tips and techniques.

    Topics include:

    • Driving Safety Tips
    • Recovery Straps and Tow Straps 
    • Lockers and Sway Bar Disconnect 
    • Spotting Techniques 
    • Basic commands/signals 
    • Approach, Break-Over, and Departure Angles 
    • Backcountry Driving Tips 
    • Trail Etiquette 
    • Equipment Recommendations 

    View the Training Manual 4x4 Off Road Driving: Click Here

    Berdoo Canyon is about 27 miles from Dillon Rd to Park Ave. in Joshua Tree Park., rated Moderate, suitable for stock vehicles. Bring water, lunch and/or snacks. Maybe lunch in Yucca Valley.

    Meeting Location:

    8:00 AM - PetSmart, Ramon/Crossley, Palm Springs - Map 

    Or 8:30 AM Berdoo Canyon at Dillon Rd. Map 33.800132, -116.184839 


    Drivers are welcome to bring passengers.  GO does not arrange rideshares. If any drivers wish to offer a passenger seat, you may so indicate. 

    Contact Trip Leaders:  Scott Connelly, Joey D., Cliff C. 

    Here are some of the subjects we will cover:

    Equipment Recommendations 

    1. Reliable 4WD vehicle with 2 speed transfer case 

    2. Trail rated tires, tire patch kit with plug

    3. Radio communication.

    4. Tow attachment points - front and rear

    5. Recovery/Tow strap(s)

    6. Fire extinguisher

    7. Spare tire, changing tools, jack capable of lifting your 4X4. (Preferably not a high lift jack).  If your vehicle has been lifted, the OEM jack is no longer tall enough to change a tire, carry blocks, or consider a 2-stage bottle jack (18”)

    8. First aid kit

    9. Tire deflator

    10. Air compressor or CO2 tank

    11. Checklists - ArriveAlive


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

    • Sun, April 05, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Coronado Marriott Wellness Center
    Register

    San Diego Outdoor Pickleball!


    Join Us for Pickleball on Coronado!

    Ready for some light-hearted pickleball fun? Great Outdoors San Diego (GOSD) and Rainbow Picklers team up every other Sunday for a friendly morning of play. All skill levels welcome—newbies included! Just bring a paddle, water, and sunscreen. 

    Date & Time: Every other Sunday 10:00–11:50am
    Location: Pickleball courts at the Coronado Marriott Wellness Center (just inside the main entrance, to the right)

    Cost: $8 per person to play
    Parking: Free street parking – or $5 on-site for 2.5 hours with validation at the Wellness Center

    How to RSVP

    1. Register here through the GOSD event page.

    2. Download the “Spond” app: https://www.spond.com/en-us/

    3. Use the Rainbow Picklers Group Link to request access to the group: https://spond.com/invite/TYFKT

    4. One of the group admins will approve your request. Please allow 48 hours for approval.

    5. RSVP for each game via the Spond app. (Registration closes at 9am Friday before each Sunday game so we can secure the right number of courts. Late cancellations or no-shows are still responsible for the $8 court fee.)

    We hope to see you on the courts!


    Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

    Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations, including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.

    • Mon, April 06, 2026
    • 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM
    • Santa Rosa San Jacinto National Monument
    Register

    Horsethief Creek via Cactus Springs 

    • Distance: 5 miles out & back
    • Elevation gain: 1200'
    • Trailhead elevation: 4045'
    • Difficulty Rating: Moderate/ Advanced
    • Hike is downhill in and uphill out. Of the 1200 feet, 300 feet is gained going in, and 865 feet on the way back.
    • Hiking time: 3 hours
    • Meet at 8:00AM at Denny's at 69050 CA-111, Cathedral City, CA 92234. Map
    • Description: Set in the transitional zone between the Santa Rosa Mountains and the Coachella Valley, this hike provides a huge variety of scenery, including geology, canyons, creeks and desert flora. Adding to the appeal is the area’s historical interest; Horsethief Creek takes its name from the legend of gangsters that supposedly used the canyon as a hideout.

    Hiking Requirements - you will need to be in good physical condition for this hike.  Click here for more information.

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

    Contact hike leader:  Kirk Olsen Email Click Here 

    Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging you own transportation or ride share. Arrive a few minutes early for briefing and carpooling. Departure is at 8:00 am AM. Distance to Cactus Spring trailhead  is 21 miles. Map Direction to trailhead

    Trail Profile:

    Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels

    More trail information: USFS click here.

    Plant guide:  Click here.

    Health Problems/allergies:  Advise hike leader of any medical or other issues that may affect your ability to complete this hike

    © 1981 - 2026 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy

    • Tue, April 07, 2026
    • 7:30 AM - 2:00 PM
    • Joshua Tree Park
    • 16

    The Maze and North View Loop

    The Maze and North View Loop is located near the main entrance to Joshua Tree National Park and the trailhead is an hour from our meeting place. Because of limited trailhead parking, we will meet early and, hopefully, beat the crowds.

    The 6 mile loop hike is moderately challenging and we will aim to complete the hike in 3+ hours. We will experience a variety of terrain ranging from flat and sandy to rocky climbs as we enjoy the vistas and granite outcroppings. Plan on an early lunch near the end of the hike. 

    • Departure Time:  7:30 AM (please arrive 5+ minutes before departure)
    • Meet near Walmart Gas in Palm Springs near Ramon/Crossley Map click here
    • Trail Length:  6 miles – loop trail
    • Hiking Time: 3 hours (4 hours including rest and lunch breaks)
    • Trailhead elevation 3,822 feet
    • Elevation Gain: 700 feet
    • Difficulty Rating: Moderately advanced principally due to length
    • Terrain:  Sandy to rocky climbs
    • Parking is limited. Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging you own transportation or ride share.  It is 45 miles to Joshua Tree West entrance and approximately 1.5 miles to the trailhead from the entrance station.

    Hiking Requirements: Good physical condition with capability of hiking 8+ miles, recommended. You must be a Great outdoors (GO) member to attend this hike.

    Hike Leader:  Spencer B. (email)

    Fees/Charges: Joshua Tree Park entrance fee.

    What to bringTen Essentials (click here), water (2+ 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.

    Cancel:  If you cannot make a hike for which you have registered, please cancel as others may be on the waitlist.  You may cancel directly from your profile setting or notify the hike leader.  

    Weather Policy:  Inclement weather cancels.

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


    • Fri, April 10, 2026
    • 8:30 AM
    • Sun, April 12, 2026
    • 6:00 PM
    • Ensenada Region of Baja California
    • 0
    Join waitlist


    3 DAY, 2 NIGHT BAJA EXPEDITION: 

    HIKING + NATURE + WINERIES + BAJA CUISINE

    April 10th-12th, 2026


    The Ensenada region of Baja California, only an hour and a half south of the border from San Diego, offers spectacular hiking through the coastal and woodland landscapes in full spring bloom as well as an explosion of wineries, and fine Baja-Fusion cuisine in the Guadalupe Valley and Ensenada Coast. This trip brings the highlights of all of these for a small group of 8 guests who will also enjoy fabulous ocean-view lodging in one of the area's premier coastal communities.

    GO member Mike Wilken, your guide, is an anthropologist and naturalist who lives in Baja California and has worked in the region for over 32 years. Dr. Gerry Chavez, driver and co-guide, is a local geographer with an extensive knowledge of the environments of the region. Both are happy to share their knowledge of native plants and wildlife, geology, native cultures and history for interested guests.

    The $560 per solo person and $1120 per pair cost includes a 3 day guided expedition with transportation starting from the Tecate border and throughout the trip, three meals including delicious daily breakfasts at our ocean-view vacation home lodging, and one wine tasting. Guests cover four no-host meals, and any extra wine and beer tastings or purchases. 


    This trip is designed for 8 guests. Lodging is double occupancy in our comfortable ocean-view vacation home with extra sofas, living areas, kitchens, and garden spaces. Our transportation is in a 12-passenger van with room in the back for luggage. 

    Cancellation Policy - Refund deadline is 30 days beforehand, no refund after 30 days unless a substitute is identified.

    MIGRATORY DOCUMENTS and crossing the border: Walking into Mexico: By parking on the US side of the border, you will avoid the long lines coming back, since you will walk back through the quick pedestrian entry at the end of trip. We will meet you on the US side and walk you through customs to our van. You will need to have a US passport and get a Mexican tourist visa (FMM) for this trip. You get it online, and there should be no cost because you are only going to be in Mexico for 3 days. Instructions will be sent to participants. 

    US Citizens must have a US passport for land-based border crossing back into the US. Non-US citizens should bring all necessary documents for re-entry into the US.

    For more information, feel free to contact Mike Wilken: [email protected]

    HIKES EVERY DAY:

    Professor's Park and Las Piedras Environmental Education Center is an easy 2 mile loop trail near Tecate with trails through well-preserved chaparral vegetation, giant boulders and views to Mount Cuchumaa (Tecate Peak). Your guides Mike and Gerry will enhance your experience through their knowledge of the flora, fauna, geology, and indigenous history of the area.  


    Las Piedras Environmental Education Center


    Trails through beautiful chaparral habitat at the base of Mount Cuchuma. Learn about traditional uses of native plants along the way.


    Arbolitos trail follows the rugged mountain range with dramatic views of both the Pacific and of the Bay of  Ensenada, passing through fields of native Shaw’s agave plants and rare, beautiful coastal  succulent scrub habitat. Our picnic spot provides breathtaking views of the Pacific coast. Approximately 4 hour hike including lunch.


    Optional morning hike into coastal hills in the Ensenada region. Leaving from our  host's home, we will take an easy 2 mile out-and-back hike into the hills overlooking Ensenada  Bay. Enjoy panoramic views and the chance to learn more about the ethnobotany and natural  history of the region. (Or just relax at our lodging and hang out in the fabulous ocean view  gardens!)

    TASTY BAJA FUSION DINING:

    WINERIES: The Guadalupe Valley is Mexico's premiere wine-producing area

    Lodging will be at the Baja House and the Mexico House, which share the same garden and views. See a description of the Baja House Here:

    airbnb.com/h/baja-ocean-view-villa-rustica



    EXPEDITION ITINERARY

    Three days/two nights, April 10-12

    Meals and tastings included in the expedition are indicated as "provided" otherwise  they are no host (each guest pays own). Actual wineries and restaurants may  change as we find out what each group prefers. We reserve the right to make  minor changes as necessary to the published itinerary.

    Day 1: Friday, April 10

    9:00:  Arrive to the US side of Tecate, leave cars in fenced parking lots ($5-10 a day) and meet 5 mins away at the Duty Free Store just before the border crossing. Guide will meet you there and walk you over border to get paperwork stamped and take you to the van.

    9:30 Visit "El Mejor Pan" bakery in Tecate

    10:00 Visit Tecate Community Museum

    11:00 Ethnobotanical hike at Parque del Professor in Tecate. Visit Las Piedras Environmental Education center (hobbit-like caves) run by Funcacion La Puerta 

    1:00 Lunch at el Cafecito restaurant 


    2:30 Leave for Guadalupe Valley 


    3:30 Wine tasting in Guadalupe Valley (Las Nubes)(provided)


    4:45 Leave for the coast 


    5:30 Arrive at Baja House Vacation Home lodging, freshen up 


    7:00 Dinner along coast (Punta Morro)


    9:00 Return to our lodging


    Day 2: Saturday, April 11


    8:00 Breakfast at the Baja House (provided

    9:00 Leave for hike

    10:30 Arrive at trailhead (Arolitos, Punta Banda)

    12:30 Picnic lunch (provided) (Deli Loop) 


    1:30 Return trip to trailhead 


    3:00 Depart  


    4:30 Arrive at the Baka House, margaritas, salsa, chips at the Baja House

     

    6:00 Dinner at the Baja House (provided)


    7:00 Bonfire


    Day 3: Sunday, April 12


    8:00 Breakfast at the Baja House (provided


    9:30 Optional hike from the Baja House (or just stay and relax) 


    11:30 Pack up and leave the Baja House 


    12:00 Guadalupe valley, tour around


    1:00 Lunch in the valley (Bruma Winegarden)

    4:00 Leave for Tecate 

    5:45 Arrive at Tecate pedestrian border crossing, easy walk through customs and return to your vehicles. 


    The magic gardens of the Baja House, relax and enjoy! 





    Mike Wilken, your guide, is the author of the award-winning book Kumeyaay Ethnobotany



    • Fri, April 10, 2026
    • 1:00 PM
    • Sun, April 12, 2026
    • 12:00 PM
    • Joshua Tree RV & Campground; 6225 Sunburst Street; Joshua Tree, CA
    Register

    OUTDOORS EXPERIENCE

      Hike Leader - Morning 4 hrs
      Trip Leader - Afternoon 4 hrs


      You may attend one, or both training sessions.  Option to camp for the weekend or just come in for the day.

      The training is open to all interested members, including novice hikers, but even those of us who have been hiking for many years come away with new skills or insights.

      Some more great things about the training:


      •  The courses are free for those who complete their training.*  
      •  The information about emergency response could save your life.
      •  The discussion of leadership and people skills has applications beyond the hiking trail.
      •  The certification allows you to lead other day trips you may be interested in, such as bike rides or museum visits. (Anything that broadens our awareness of our environment is a valid outing.)
      * Money paid for personal copies of the training manuals will be refunded upon successful completion of the course.  
        The next Outdoor Experience Training is the second weekend in April at Joshua Tree RV & Campground in Joshua Tree, California just outside the West Entrance of the Joshua Tree National Park .  Participants can enjoy hiking, dining, and camping together around the full day of training in the campground's Clubhouse. The hike leader training is on a Saturday morning, and is followed by training on leading overnight trips.

        Friday April 10

        1 pm Check-in campground:  Check in at the Office; tell them you are with Great Outdoors.

        3:30 pm - Fun hike nearby. We will adjust the time if needed to accommodate those arriving on Friday and camping for the training. This is a welcome and training hike for attendees.  We will discuss and demonstrate the Ten Essentials and safety protocols on the trail.  Sunset at 7:13 pm.

        6 pm -- Meet and Greet at campground; Bring something to share. Dinner on your own.

        Saturday April 11 - Training class at the Clubhouse. 

        • 8 am - 12 pm  Hike Leader Training    
        • 1 pm - 5 pm Trip Leader Training
        • 5:30 pm  Potluck at campground

        Sunday April 12 

        8:30 am -12:00 - Training hike nearby where participants will be confronted with a variety of situations that one may encounter on the trail.

        DAY HIKE LEADER - SECTION I

        Be a Hike Leader!  Not just someone who knows the way, but someone who applies safety, best practices, fun, and local knowledge to make a successful outing. In addition to the 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. Completing this course will provide participants with Day Hike Leader Certification.  This is also a good refresher for hike leaders.

        Hike Leader Syllabus

        Prerequisites: Must be a Great Outdoors member (click here to join). The course is for anyone interested in becoming a hike leader, learning more about leading effective hikes, or becoming a more confident and capable hiker.

        This Hike Leader Certification course is for hikers who are interested in learning new skills as well as experienced hike leaders who are looking to update or refresh their outdoor leadership skills. It is suitable for all ranges of hiker abilities, from novice up to very experienced hikers.

        Objectives: Introduce participants to the skills, knowledge and qualifications of a hike leader. Present skills for leading a safe, environmentally responsible and enjoyable hike.

        Content/Topics Covered:  Hike planning, description, screening participants, trail group management, emergency management, medical issues on the trail, basic map reading and navigation, outdoor techniques, environmental protection, and problem solving techniques and scenarios.

        Course Format: The training includes in-person instruction with group discussion and problem solving applications and trail-based scenarios.

        Pre-Course Assignment: Review training manuals and video:

        Link to Training Resources:  click here

        Printed manuals available at the training location at no cost to participants. Option to have manual(s) mailed to you upon registration.

        * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

        TRIP LEADERSHIP - OVERNIGHT EVENTS - SECTION II 

        One of the premier features of Great Outdoors is overnight trips. As a leader you will propose, research and design overnight trips. You will manage and administer the trip using leadership and group management skills. Completing this course will provide participants with Trip Leadership Certification.

        Course Outline:

        • Create a new trip or update a former trip.

        • Planning, scouting, securing reservations.

        • Finances and budget.

        • Create a trip description and promotion.

        • Secure all logistics including any permits, and support staff as necessary.

        • Communicate with participants to provide information and answer questions.

        • Conducting your trip, safety issues, group management issues - preventing and solving.

        Course Length/Hours: 4 hours.

        * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

        What to bring:  Lunch, water bottle, and mug for hot drinks during the training sessions. If you are taking the Hike Leader course bring a day pack with your ten essentials. If you are tent camping, bring food, camp gear, warm clothing.

        Weather: Average: February 77° / 47° Joshua Tree, CA: current: click here

        Facilities:  Courses will be conducted in the campground Clubhouse with tables, chairs, projector, TV monitor and restrooms.  

        Overnight accommodations:

        Camping at Joshua Tree RV & Campground:  8 tent sites (20 x 30 pads) that can accommodate 2 tents per site.  If needed, 2 RV sites that can accommodate 2 tents per site.  

        Motels located nearby: Safari Motor Inn and Casa De Frank

        More information:

        Course Preparation: You are encouraged to review the Outdoor Experience Training Manuals and material at the following link ahead of time. Please print out and review the applicable review questions below prior to the training.  

        Link to Training Resources: Click Here

        Suggested Additional Reading and Video:
        1. Wilderness Navigation: Finding Your Way Using Map, Compass, Altimeter, & GPS. Bob Burns, Mike Burns
        2. The National Outdoor Leadership School's Wilderness GuideMark Harvey
        3. How to Lead a Hike by the Sierra Club 15 min. video click here

        Print and complete the following review questions and bring them with you:

        HIKE LEADER REVIEW QUESTIONS with Page Ref 2022.08.05.pdf.

        TRIP LEADER REVIEW QUESTIONS with Page Ref 2022.08.05.pdf

        © 1981 - 2026 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy



        • Fri, April 10, 2026
        • 2:00 PM
        • Mon, April 13, 2026
        • 12:00 PM
        • Juniper Campground, 1300 North Gate Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94598
        Register

        Mount Diablo State Park Campout

        Friday April 10th to Monday April 13th, 2026 @ Juniper Campground

        View a full screen version

        Juniper Campground from the Moses Rock Ridge Trail

        This campground is perched on a plateau near the top of Mount Diablo, giving it dramatic views of the San Ramon Valley. It’s very popular.

        Most of the sites are large and spaced well apart. Sites 18, 19, 21, 22, 24, 34 and 36 are sheltered in a grove of trees. These sites are popular because they’re the only ones that are completely shaded

        Campout Start Time and Location: Friday April 10th check in at 2pm, checkout Monday April 13th at noon.

        Campout Type (car parking, group camp, hike-in):

        Campground Details: Enter through the North Gate. Standard amenities like tent sites with picnic tables & fire rings, potable water, flush toilets, and much-appreciated showers, plus food storage lockers

        Campground challenges (temperatures, animals, allergens): Open forest setting with shade. It's a great base for hiking with trailheads nearby, offers views of the Bay/Diablo Valley.

        Equipment Needed: General camping gear

        Parking Information: 2 cars/site

        Costs involved: $65/tent camper with car; $50 tent camper carpooling. Cancellation up to 3 weeks prior to event applicable for refund. No refunds after unless replacement available. 

        Pets Permitted: Yes, but not on trails.

        Who to Contact with Questions: Tyler Roosden @ 651.497.1611

        Juniper Campground

        Schedule

        Friday 4/10/26

        2 PM - Check in after 2 PM

        5 PM - Meet and Greet - Bring a snack to share and your favorite beverage. In order to cut down on waste, please also bring your own reusable plate, utensils and cup/mug - these will not be provided.

        7 PM - Group campfire 

        Saturday 4/11/26

        Breakfast - on your own

        9 AM - Depart for hike(s). Bring a packed lunch. The hike specifics will be determined as the trip gets closer and we have a better sense for where the best viewing will be. Other hike(s) or outings may also be offered depending on interest levels and degree of difficulty of hikes, i.e., easy, moderate, strenuous. most notably the popular Juniper and Summit Trail Loop, a moderate 3.8-mile loop with ~1,000 ft gain offering summit access, and the longer, strenuous Juniper Falls Trail, an ~11-mile challenge. Mount Diablo Grand Loop Trail: A longer, ~6.2-mile loop option with over 1,700 ft gain, highly rated by hikers.

        3 PM - Optional Hike pending interest.

        6 PM - Potluck Dinner - Bring a main dish, side, salad or dessert. In an effort to be more environmentally friendly, please bring your own reusable plate and utensils as one use disposable items will not be provided.

        7 PM - Campfire

        Sunday 4/12/25

        Breakfast - on your own

        9 AM - Depart for hike(s). Bring a packed lunch. The hike specifics will be determined as the trip gets closer and we have a better sense for where the best viewing will be. Other hike(s) or outings may also be offered depending on interest levels and degree of difficulty of hikes, i.e., easy, moderate, strenuous. most notably the popular Juniper and Summit Trail Loop, a moderate 3.8-mile loop with ~1,000 ft gain offering summit access, and the longer, strenuous Juniper Falls Trail, an ~11-mile challenge. Mount Diablo Grand Loop Trail: A longer, ~6.2-mile loop option with over 1,700 ft gain, highly rated by hikers.

        3 PM - Optional Hike pending interest.

        6 PM -  Campfire & Dinner gather, bring a your own meal

        Monday 4/13/26

        9 AM Breakfast - on your own and packing and cleaning up the camp sites.

        12 PM - Check Out.

        *Note on the 10 essentials - The 10 essentials are a collection or system of items that significantly increase your safety on any hike or outdoors trip. This is not an exhaustive list of anything you could ever need. You can visit the link included Here but one version of this list is as follows:

        1. Navigation

        2. Headlamp

        3. Sun Protection

        4. First Aid

        5. Knife

        6. Fire

        7. Shelter

        8. Extra food

        9. Extra water

        10. Extra clothes


        Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

        Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.

        • Sun, April 12, 2026
        • 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
        • Edward Vincent, Jr. Park
        • 21
        Register


        The Orange County/Long Beach Chapter of Great Outdoos presents:

        OCLB - Inglewood Urban Walk

        Sunday, April 12, 2026 starting at 10:00 AM

        (In the event of extreme heat, the hike will be postponed.)

        Contact: Frederick Brown E-mail: [email protected] Phone: 562-754-1838

        Bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses and a liter of water.

        (This writeup was adapted from LAIST written by Paul Haddad)


        Where are we headed?

        Old and older Inglewood: Market Street, whose pedestrian-friendly central business district hearkens back to the 1920s, and Edward Vincent Jr. Park, where Centinela Springs provided fresh water from prehistoric times through the 1940s.

        Why now?

        Inglewood, if you haven’t noticed, is having a moment. During the L.A. Lakers’ Forum days, it was the “City of Champions.” Now it’s home to the Rams’ SoFi Stadium and the Clippers’ brand-new Intuit Dome. But Inglewood is far more than its multi-billion-dollar sports shrines. This route retraces the city’s roots and leans into its African American footprint.

        Quickly, what can I expect?

        • Route conditions: Flat with slight grades

        • Difficulty: 2 on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the hardest

        • Distance: 2.8 miles

        • Dog friendly: Yes

        • Costs/Parking: Free parking In the southwest lot at approximately 700 Warren Lane, or on Warren Lane itself, which skirts the northern boundary of Edward Vincent Jr. Park. (The Metro K Line stops just south of here.)

        • Meet up point: At the entrance to Edward Vincent, Jr. Park which is at the intersection of Warren Lane, Stepney Street and N. Park Avenue. Click Here for map.

        OK, Let's Get Started

        Inglewood has undergone major demographic shifts throughout its history beyond the well-trodden succession of Indian, Spanish and Mexican communities. Beginning in the 1970s, the city increasingly drew Black professionals and working-class families. This route covers all eras, with an emphasis on Downtown, which has vacillated between vibrant and struggling conditions over the decades.

        Like many SoCal communities, water is at the heart of why Inglewood is where it is. What better place to start this hike than at the place that nourished its rise? Twenty feet beyond the eastern driveway of the parking lot for Edward Vincent Jr. Park, look for a gated walkway that advertises the “Willie Agee Playhouse,” a beloved 55-seat community theater. Follow the path to the playhouse. Just before its entryway, turn right at the palm tree. Cross the grass to two stone markers nearby.


        One of the monuments contains a capped valve that used to control the bubbling waters of Centinela Springs (or as the Spanish called it, Aguaje de Centinela). An inscription reads, “From Time Immemorial God’s Blessing of Sweet Water to All His Creatures.” Next to it, a plaque details the history of the former artesian well, one of the first Registered Historical Landmarks in California. Amazingly, the spring quenched the thirst of Inglewood residents as late as 1949 before it ran dry.

        What is a 'Pump Track'?

        The concrete foundation that supports the old well includes a short, paved connection to another pedway. Turn right on this path, away from a magnificent outdoor amphitheater. Honestly, this whole park is the bomb, bustling with families and well-maintained recreational facilities, including the first pump track in Greater L.A. What’s a pump track, you ask? Imagine a self-contained bicycle and skating course with lots of whoop-de-doos (mountain biker lingo for fun trail humps). Take in the organized chaos from the park’s southern walkway or relax on one of several mosaic-tiled benches melded into an old stone wall.


        Exiting Stoneview we make a right, continuing on our walk. We'll soon come up on Lavender Chiveeví, a Los Angeles County commissioned mural that honors the biodiversity of the plants found in the area, the surrounding community and roads, and the indigenous people who once called the area home. Active oil pumpjacks can be seen in the distance, part of the Inglewood Oil Field. The trail will dip once more before it begins a climb of 200 feet over the next half mile. Along the way, take an opportunity to pause and turn. At several points, we can enjoy the blissful feeling of seeing nature all around, and barely any signs of "civilization" beyond a glimpse of some power lines and the whirring of traffic in the distance.

        Rise. Fall. Repeat.

        Exit the park at its southwest corner, crossing to the other side of E. Florence Avenue. After three blocks, turn left onto North Market Street, the northern portal of downtown. Interestingly, Inglewood was rejuvenated after a damaging 1920 earthquake. Investors swooped in, making it the fastest-growing city in America from 1920 to 1925! As you stroll down Market, note the ornamental center median, which used to support the Los Angeles Railway.

        Despite having good bones, many historically significant buildings have struggled to secure tenants. At 115 N. Market, a former Fox Theatre has been slowly decaying for decades. Across the street, at 100 N. Market, a longtime bookstore never recovered after the pandemic. Its Mediterranean Revival building, erected in 1927 as the Bank of Inglewood, also awaits new life.

        Exploring the DT hub

        Another block, however, reveals a brighter side of Downtown. Black pride public art abounds, and 139 S. Market hosts the popular Inglewood Marketplace (once a JC Penney). On the northeast corner of Market and Manchester Boulevard, the World Hat & Boot Mart occupies a Streamline Moderne building from 1927 that underwent a funky makeover in the 1960s, creating the architectural Frankenstein you see today. This intersection of Market and Manchester represents Inglewood’s cultural nexus, as street events ranging from Jazz Fest to Juneteenth celebrations often spoke off from here.

        One place that remains fixed: Dulan’s Soul Food Kitchen at 202 E. Manchester — one block west of Market — an institution since 1975 and well worth visiting for their cornbread and candied yams alone.


        What’s old is new

        As you continue south on Market, the middle of the next block (233 S. Market) features an ornate brick building once owned by S.H. Kress, a defunct department store chain. Now a clothing outlet, the “Kress” insignia is still visible near the roofline.

        On the east side of the street, the former Ritz cinema fared better than the Fox. In an era of theatrical X-rated movies, it became a Pussycat Theatre in the 1970s, morphing, at long last, to the Miracle Theatre, a live-events venue that kept the marquee.

        This is the turnaround point

        Time to return from whence you came. Go right on East Nutwood Street and right again on North La Brea Avenue, whose original name in these parts — Commercial Street — telegraphed its importance to the town’s nascent business district. Today, the street’s junction with Queen Street affords the best view of the nine-story Inglewood City Hall, erected in 1973. Its architect was Charles Luckman, he of the Los Angeles Convention Center, Madison Square Garden, and Inglewood’s own Forum. More importantly, Luckman’s pedigree was a symbol that Inglewood had truly arrived.

        With plans afoot to further revitalize Downtown, ever-evolving Inglewood will no doubt look different upon subsequent visits. For now, after leaving City Hall, turn right on Florence Avenue to retrace your steps to where it all began.


        Trip Leader: Frederick Brown. Email: [email protected]. Phone: 562-754-1838




        • Mon, April 13, 2026
        • 8:00 AM - 3:30 PM
        • Joshua Tree National Park
        Register

        Description:  Lost Horse Loop Trail is a 6.8 mile trail located in Joshua Tree National Park just off the Keys View Road.  The trail follows the remains of the old service road for the mine which is located about 1.5 miles from the trailhead at elevation 4600-5120 feet.  The mine, over 100 years old, is one of the best preserved and was one of the most productive mines in Joshua Tree having produced 10,000 ounces of gold and 16,000 ounces of silver between the years of 1894 and 1931. 


        Lost Horse Mine was discovered by Johnny Lang while either looking for one of his lost horses or a stolen horse whose tracks took him to the Lost Horse Valley and the camp of Jim McHaney with his gang of cattle rustlers and horse thieves.  After being told he did not lose a horse, Johnny Lang left and on his way back ran into “Dutch” Frank Diebold. After being shown a piece of ore, Johnny bought the rights to the mine for $1,000 from “Dutch.” After a number of partners, Johnny was eventually forced to sell his share of the mine after his main partner, J.D. Ryan, hired a detective who caught him stealing. Johnny didn’t go too far and settled in the next canyon near the mine now named Johnny Long Canyon. In 1925, Johnny left a note on his cabin door saying he had left for food and bedded down for the night at the entrance to the canyon not too far from the mine. He died that night and was not found until two months later by Bill Keys, owner of the Keys View Ranch. After reporting his death to the county coroner, Mr. Keys buried Johnny where he was found near the Keys View Road just at the turn to the Lost Horse Mine parking area. 

        • Trail Length: 6.8 miles total
        • Elevation Gain/Loss: 882 feet
        • Difficulty Rating: moderately strenuous - will generally be challenging for an unconditioned person. The terrain will involve a steady and often steep incline.
        • Trail Type: Loop.  
        • Hiking Time:  5-6 hours (including travel from and return to carpool spot)
        • Dirt road for 1 mile from Keys View Road to the trailhead parking area
        • Departure Time:  8:00 AM (Please arrive early for 8:00 AM departure)
        • Departure Location: PetSmart / Walmart Supercenter in Palm Springs at 5601 E. Ramon Road, cross street Lawrence Crossley Road; meet at the north/east corner parking lot between 7:45 and 8:00 AM map here
        • Fees/Charges:  Joshua Tree National Park entrance fee 

        Hiking Requirements:  The elevation is at 4600 feet so you will need to be in good physical condition for this hike. Click here for more information.

        Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver.  You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share. 

        Cancel: If you cannot make a hike for which you have registered please cancel as others may be on the waitlist. You may cancel directly from your profile settings or notify the hike leader.

        Contact hike leader:  Kirk Olsen

        Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.

        What to bringTen Essentials (click here), water (1 to 2 liters recommended), lunch/snacks, sun protection, layered clothing. Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE). Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required.

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

        © 1981 - 2026 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy

        • Tue, April 14, 2026
        • 8:30 AM - 1:00 PM
        • Indio, CA

        Hike the hills and canyons created by the San Andreas fault with outstanding geological features and great views from the ridge. 

        • Trail Length:   5.3 mi
        • Elevation Gain/Loss: 900'
        • Trailhead Elevation: 20'
        • Trail Type: Loop
        • Terrain: Rocky, sandy areas, slot canyons.
        • Difficulty Rating: Moderate-plus. The trail narrows through a canyon and then it climbs to a high ridge with a steep drop-off.

        Meeting Place and Time: Parking lot near PetSmart and Walmart Gas at Ramon/Crossley, Palm Springs: Map Click Here. 8:30 AM DEPARTURE. Arrive 10 or 15 minutes early for briefing and carpooling.  

        Hiking Requirements - You will need to be in good physical condition for this hike. Click here for more information.

        Bring Ten Essentials (click here) - water (2 to 3 liters recommended), and trail snacks. Sun protection and layered clothing are recommended. Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE).

        Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required.

        Optional Lunch: CIE Sichuan Cuisine, 45682 Towne St., downtown IndioArrange your carpooling accordingly. NOTE: This restaurant does not provide separate checks. Participants must bring $25+ cash, or use Venmo or Zelle to facilitate paying one group check for shared dishes. Those interested in eating spicy Sichuan food family-style will be able to sample multiple dishes.

        Contact leader: Howard G. - email click here

        Carpooling - is encouraged and may be available if offered by a driver. You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share. Distance to trailhead (Golf Center Parkway/Ave 42) is 18 miles, approximately 30 minutes.

        Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels

        Additional Photos - Click Here

        You must be a Great Outdoors (GO) member in order to attend this event.

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

        • Wed, April 15, 2026
        • 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
        • 83775 Citrus Ave, Indio
        Register

        The Find Food Bank is one of many regional food banks across the US that acts as a hub, sourcing food from a variety of places across the US and from people, processing it safely in our warehouse, and distributing it equitably to the hundreds of food pantries, nonprofit organizations, soup kitchens, homeless shelters, and Mobile Markets that serve individual communities across the desert region.

        Come join us at the Findl Food Bank in Indio and help prepare food boxes for distribution to families in need through out the valley.  We will work a 3 hour shift (8-11 am) and then after go to  lunch at TKB Bakery & Deli Website click here

        7:15 AM Meet at Palm Springs PetsMart, Ramon/Crossley   Map click here

        or 8:00 AM at the Food Bank 83775 Citrus Ave, Indio, CA 92201 MAP

        Wear comfortable closed toe, sturdy footwear.

        Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share. Carpool transportation is at the sole risk of the participants.  Arrive a few minutes early for briefing and carpooling.

        Contact hike leader:  H.L. Todd: EMAIL

        Cancel: If you cannot make this event, please cancel as others may be on the waitlist. You may cancel directly from your profile settings or notify the event leader.

        © 1981 - 2026 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy


        • Thu, April 16, 2026
        • 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
        • Palm Springs, CA

        (Write a brief message here about why you like this hike and others may too. Example for Oswit Canyon: Explore one of our best natural areas that is home to a variety of desert vegetation and wildlife. Enjoy mountain/canyon views while overlooking Palm Springs. The turnaround point features a waterfall at a palm oasis.)

        Description:

        • Trail Length:
        • Elevation Gain/Loss: 
        • Difficulty Rating: 
        • Trail Type: 
        • Terrain: 
        •         AM Meet at Palm Springs PetsMart, Ramon/Crossley   Map click here

        Bring: Ten Essentials, water (2 to 3 liters recommended), lunch/ snacks, sun protection, layered clothing, hiking poles may be helpful. Carry emergency contact information. Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required. 

        Hiking Requirements (How can I tell if a hike is for me?). You will need to be in good physical condition for this hike. Click here for more information.

        Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share. Carpool transportation is at the sole risk of the participants.  Arrive a few minutes early for briefing and carpooling. Departure is       AM from 

        Contact hike leader:  Bill B.

        Cancel: If you cannot make a hike for which you have registered please cancel as others may be on the waitlist. You may cancel directly from your profile settings or notify the hike leader.

        Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.

        Unless otherwise noted, registration for this event is limited to Great Outdoors members. To sign up as a memberclick here 


        Photos: (optional)

        Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels

        Pets allowed? (Leader discretion if allowed by land agency)

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


        © 1981 - 2025 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy


        • Sat, April 18, 2026
        • 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
        • Cuyamaca Rancho State Park - East Mesa Trailhead
        Register

        Green Valley Falls Hike

        Saturday April 18th, 2026 @ 9am

        Green Valley Campground - Lake Cuyamaca S.P.

        This hike takes us to the southernmost part of Cuyamaca park and then we will Lunch at Green Valley Falls!

        Starting at the East Mesa Trailhead parking area, we will travel west on the East Boundary Fire Road for 1.3 miles, turning south on the Blue Ribbon Trail for 1.5 miles. At the boundary of the park, we will pick up the Merrigan Fire Road 1.1 miles to the Sweetwater Trail and head back north 1.2 miles. We then take a small connector to the Falls Fire Road heading to the Green Valley campground. We will have lunch at Green Valley Falls (which will likely be busy); and afterward we walk through the Green Valley Campground and then head back to East Mesa Trailhead.

        Event Start Time / Location: We leave promptly at 9 AM from East Mesa Trailhead.  Rain cancels.

        Length & Elevation: A bit less than 8 miles and approximately 800 feet elevation gain. Out & Back.

        Estimated Hike Duration: 9 AM start, est finish is 2PM

        Specific Challenges (stairs, animals, allergens): Pack water, lunch, snack and ten essentials.

        Parking & Directions: Take SR (HWY) 79 North from Interstate 8. The East Mesa Parking area/Trailhead is about a half mile past the Cuyamaca Rancho State Park entry sign. It comes after the Oakzanita parking area and before the Green Valley Campground. No parking pass is required to park here. There are no restrooms on this trail until we reach the Green Valley Campground. 

        Costs involved: Free

        Pets Permitted: No

        Who to Contact with Questions: Scott Opis at [email protected]


        Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

        Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.

        • Sat, April 18, 2026
        • 4:00 PM
        • Sun, April 26, 2026
        • 11:00 AM
        • Atlantis Cruise Ship
        Register


        Great Outdoors OCLB

        Special Cruise Ship Tour Event!

        Calling All Enthusiastic Travel Lovers!


        Logo for Atlantis Events


        An Incredible All-Gay Experience

        An Atlantis all-gay cruise is so much more than just a vacation.  It's a chance to see new places, meet new friends, and discover new ways to play.  For over 30 years, Atlantis created a space for guests to be their authentic selves with other friendly, passionate, like-minded guys.  There's power in the gay experience.  We see it every time one of our ships leaves the harbor.


        Great Outdoors OCLB

        is organizing an

         Logo for Atlantis Events


        Mexican cruise which will go to EnsenadaCabo San Lucas, Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta from Los Angeles!

        You loved our last cruise (Iceland, Norway, Belgium, The Netherlands and London) and demanded more!

        And we are going to deliver!

        The dates are from April 18-26th, 2026!


        Cruise Itinerary
        APRIL 18

        Los Angeles, California

        Depart 5:00 pm

        APRIL 19

        Ensenada, Mexico

        Arrive 9:00 am - Depart 5:00 pm

        APRIL 20

        Wonderful Day at Sea

        APRIL 21

        Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

        Arrive 9:00 am - Depart 5:00 pm

        APRIL 22

        Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

        Arrive 12:00 pm - Depart 1:00 am

        APRIL 23

        Mazatlan, Mexico

        Arrive 12:00 pm - Depart 6:00 pm

        APRIL 24

        Great Day at Sea

        APRIL 25

        Relaxing Day at Sea

        APRIL 26

        Los Angeles, California

        Arrive 5:00 am

        The event is posted on Atlantis website.

        Here is the link to the Atlantis website:

        https://atlantisevents.com/vacation/la26-la-to-mexico/

        This is simply a notice and if you are interested please list your name on this GO registration so we can create group texts for those interested.

        You have to register DIRECTLY on the Atlantis website/link above if you intend to attend; as Atlantis will handle EVERYTHING, payments, room assignments, etc.

        It more fun when you have a group of friends to share the excitement with on these cruises.

         Unfortunately due to the strong demand by Alumni, we will be unable to get rooms next to each other.  However we can have group dinners, social meetings and plan on excursions together.


        This cruise will SELLOUT!; if you are interested I highly recommend you register ASAP with Atlantis!

        Atlantis does offer a variety of payment plans ranging from monthly payments to lump sum - thus making it affordable for most budgets.

        No money will be collected via GO, as all payments will be collected by Atlantis upon your registration with Atlantis.

          YOU NEED TO REGISTER WITH ATLANTIS ; registering on GO OCLB here, only lets us know who from GO will be attending so we can party together.

        If you are looking for a cabin mate; register as such on this posting.  An updated list will go out at the end of each month for those searching for a cabin mate.  The first list went out on August 19, and the updated version will go out at the end of each month.  It is the responsiblity of each member to find their own cabin mate if that is your preference.

        If you are attending with someone who is not a GO member and you wish to include him on our messaging please add him as a guest.  


        Mexico’s Best Beaches. And More.

        We are excited!  Are you?

        Explore the Pacific’s most alluring beaches and cities, including a late-night stay in gay-friendly Puerto Vallarta with plenty of time to enjoy the city’s incomparable nightlife and beach culture. Take a tour to the sensational vineyards of Baja California or just relax on a perfect beach during our first-ever visit to Ensenada.

        Dive, fish, or snorkel in beautiful Cabo San Lucas, or explore a nearby uninhabited beach. Discover the best of authentic Mexico in the charming city of Mazatlan, a remarkable beachfront metropolis.

        With three fantastically fun days at sea, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the myriad activities onboard with more ways to play than ever. Indulge in Virgin’s sensuous spa, take in a fitness class, relax by the pool with new friends, or just watch the ocean from your hammock. Join some of our zany activities, and don’t miss our legendary T-dances!


        Everything Included. For Nothing.

        Nobody likes paying for things they use all the time, like Wifi, basic beverages, and a terrific place for dinner. So, we don’t charge extra for them. Ever. Even fitness classes are included! Logon, drink up, spin a little, and enjoy!

        Every fabulously original restaurant is included with more choices than any other ship at sea. All you need to do is decide whether to indulge in fresh Italian at Extra Virgin, Korean BBQ at Gumbae, an inventive tasting menu at the Test Kitchen, brunch or steak at the Wake, all-day treats at Razzle Dazzle, and so much more. And there’s no buffet in sight. Or a massive banquet-like main hall. But who needs one with all these amazing spots?

        Oh, and by basic beverages we mean sodas, water, coffees, juices, and most non-alcoholic offerings. The hard stuff is, of course, extra.

        Lance being an Atlantis Alumni has registered for the cruise.

        Contact Lance if you have any questions at:

        [email protected]


        We are ready to do it again!  

        Join us!

        Here are photos from our last Cruise (Iceland, Norway, Belgium, Amsterdam and London) and our Guided tour ( 8-day Musical Journey through the South) .  Here are some photos from those excursions and needless to say it was spectacular. 


        Photos from the Iceland Cruise:

        In Norway meeting new friends.


        Viewing our ship below!

        Chowing down and Cheers to you!



        Below:  Photos from the 8-Day Musical Journey through the South

        Photo of us in Memphis - Beale Street!


        At the Tina Turner Museum

        Ready to board our bus to experience another amazing day!


        In New Orleans!



        • Mon, April 20, 2026
        • 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM
        • Santa Rosa San Jacinto National Monument
        Register

        PCT South from Hwy 74
        Moderate 5.2-mile out-and-back trail, 700 ft. gain, approx. 2.5 hours duration.  Scenic mountain and valley views.  We may encounter PCT Thru-hikers.  Arrive a few minutes early for for prompt 8:00 a.m. departure at Denny’s in Cathedral City (69050 CA-111, Cathedral City, CA 92234). Map Click Here

        • Trailhead elevation: 4900'
        • Difficulty Rating: Moderate - Hiking Requirements - you will need to be in good physical condition for this hike.  Click here for more information.

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

        Contact hike leader:  Kirk O.  Email Click Here

        Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging you own transportation or ride share. Arrive a few minutes early for briefing and carpooling. Departure is at 8:00 am AM. Distance to trailhead is 29 miles map here.

        Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels

        Plant guide:  Click here.

        Health Problems/allergies:  Advise hike leader of any medical or other issues that may affect your ability to complete this hike.

        © 1981 - 2026 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy

        • Sun, April 26, 2026
        • 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
        • Westwood Hub - Conte Ave and Westwood Blvd
        Register

        Join us for the upcoming Los Angeles Open Streets Event: 

        CicLAvia—West LA

        Date: Sunday, April 26, 2026 / domingo 26 de abril 2026

        CicLAvia Event Time: 9am–4pm

        Event Location: Connecting Santa Monica Blvd and Westwood Blvd

        What: CicLAvia is a nonprofit organization that has been opening streets throughout LA County since 2010. Come experience car-free open streets at the upcoming event, CicLAvia—West LA.

        Enjoy the pop-up park for the day in your favorite people-powered way, whether that's walking, jogging, biking, roller skating, skating, or simply spectating! All ages and abilities are welcome. Be sure to join the email list so you don't miss any CicLAvia event news and updates. Click HERE to download the CicLAvia—West LA route map.

        New to CicLAvia?

        Click here for important details on parking, street closures, rentals, etc. 

        IMPORTANT: GOLA meeting spot will be at the Westwood Hub (Conte Ave and Westwood Blvd) at 10 am. We'll do the route end-to- end at a leisurely pace and stop for lunch, drinks or snacks somewhere along the route.

        You may ride at your own pace and leave whenever. 

        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.
        • As a general rule of thumb, only people-powered vehicles are allowed, with exceptions for persons with disabilities. That means we do not allow electric scooters, electric skateboards, hoverboards, electric unicycles, motorcycles and other non-people-powered vehicles, but we do allow motorized wheelchairs and related vehicles for people with disabilities. We want to make sure that everyone can enjoy our route.
        • Are e-bikes allowed? Class 1 e-bike pedal-assist allowed. Class 2 e-bikes allowed when throttle is powered off. Class 3 e-bikes allowed when pedal-assist is powered off. Learn more here. General rule of thumb: if you're pedaling (and not riding), you're clear.
        • As consideration for being allowed to participate in a CicLAvia, all participants are deemed to have released from liability and waived any right to sue its organizers, their employees, officers, volunteers and agents from any and all claims, including claims of negligence, resulting in any physical injury, illness (including death) or economic loss suffered as a result of participating in this CicLAvia.
        • By participating in a CicLAvia event, each participant understands that there are risks, such as physical and/or psychological injury, pain, suffering, illness, disfigurement, temporary or permanent disability, death or economic loss. These injuries or outcomes may arise from a participant’s or other’s actions, inactions, or negligence, or the condition of the location (s) or facility (ies). Nonetheless, participants assume all known and unknown risks of participation in CicLAvia.

        Trip leader: John Butta, [email protected]

        Health Problems/allergies Advise trip leader of any medical or other issues that may affect your ability to complete this event.

        • Sun, April 26, 2026
        • 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
        • Torrey Pines Glider Port - 2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Dr, La Jolla, CA 92037
        • 8
        Register

        SD - Torrey Pines Gliderport Paragliding

        Paragliding and Hang Gliding | Torrey Pines Gliderport

        With nearly 100 years of flying history, the Torrey Pines Gliderport is the most historic aviation site in North America, and Southern California’s premiere location for paragliding, hang gliding, remote control models and sailplanes. The Gliderport provides a world class flying site, flight lessons, certifications, tandem flightsequipment sales, and repair services.  We seek to promote all forms of flight and to make Southern California a destination for flight enthusiasts from around the world. For more information, read on about the Gliderport’s History.

        It will take an hour process to prepare for the flight and a 20min in-flight experience. This trip is weather dependent with the morning of confirmation call being made at 9am morning of. 

        Glider Port Website: https://www.flytorrey.com/ 

        Start Time and Location: Tentative 11am, morning of call will be made day to to confirm this event.

        Event Specific Challenges (stairs, animals, allergens): Weight considerations, heights, direct service through vendor (including liability waiver).

        Event Specific Equipment: Provided by vendor.

        Parking Information: On site.

        Costs involved: ~$200/person

        Who to Contact with Questions: Tyler Roosden at [email protected]


        Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

        Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.

        • Mon, April 27, 2026
        • 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM
        • Near Whitewater Preserve
        Register

        Toutain canyon and waterfall is a short but moderately challenging hike to a beautiful waterfall in Toutain Canyon (adjacent to Whitewater Canyon Preserve). We follow the stream bed, traversing river rubble at the mouth of the canyon, passing through shaded cottonwood and sycamore glens, and walking across mats of wild grapevines to reach the waterfall. Includes multiple stream crossings (one-stride wide) and some travel in damp stream bed (water level very shallow). 

        • Distance: 2.5 mi
        • Elevation Gain/Loss:  400
        • Difficulty Rating: Moderate challenging due to terrain conditions. Stream crossings and thick low hanging vines.
        • 8:30 AM Meet in the Palm Springs Walmart/Petsmart parking lot at Ramon and Crossley map here.
        • or 9:00 AM at the Tukut trailhead parking lot Map click here. This lot is located prior to the Preserve main parking lot.

        Bring: Ten Essentials, water, sun protection, layered clothing, hiking poles may be helpful. Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE). Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required. Ask leader about dogs in advance.

        Hiking Requirements - You will need to be in good physical condition for this hike. Click here for more information.

        Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging you own transportation or ride share. Arrive a few minutes early for briefing and carpooling. 

        Weather forecastclick here

        Contact hike leader: Kirk O. Email

        Cancel: If you cannot make a hike for which you have registered please cancel as others may be on the waitlist. You may cancel directly from your profile settings or notify the hike leader.

        Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.

        The canyon was named after Joe Toutain, who owned a ranch in the area until 1930 (when he sold it), and lived in Iron Canyon, a canyon on the north side of the Whitewater Canyon Road, between Bonnie Bell and the Whitewater Preserve Visitor Centre (the mouth of that canyon is visible from the road).

        Joe Toutain is remembered as a Constable who was a member of the posse that tracked Willie Boy. You can find good information about the Willie Boy story at the following link:

        https://www.ucr.edu/magazine/summer-2023/willie-boy


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


        © 1981 - 2026 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy


        • Tue, April 28, 2026
        • 9:00 AM
        • Thu, April 30, 2026
        • 3:00 PM
        • Hawaii Volcanoes NP & Hawaii Big Island
        Register

        OCLB- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park &

        Hawaii Big Island Day Hikes

        Tues 4/28/26 and Thu 4/30/26

        Hawaii is full of attractions that are unlike anything else in the world, but even among these unique wonders, Hawaii’s volcanoes stand out as truly remarkable. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island of Hawaii protects some of these natural marvels, including two of the world's largest and most active volcanoes.

        Come join me for day hikes at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and on the Big Island of Hawaii to experience stunning landscapes created by these volcanoes.

        Registration: Limited to Great Outdoors members

        Day Hike: Tue. Apr. 28th, 2026 at 9 am- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

        Day Hike: Thu. Apr. 30th, 2026 at 9 am- Big Island Hawaii, local trail. Location TBA.

        Transportation & Lodging: Air, ground transportation, lodging, meals, fuel, and travel costs on the Big Island of Hawaii is the responsibility of each member. It is strongly recommended that members purchase travel insurance to insure their trip costs in the event of cancellation or interruption. 

        Fees: Day hikes are FREE.  There is a vehicle entrance fee of $30 to enter Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.  A valid national park pass waives the entrance fee. There may be parking and entrance fees charged at the trailhead of a local hiking trail on the Big Island.

        What to Bring: Day Pack with Ten Essentials. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and rain protection. Pack a lunch, snacks, and water.

        Important information

        Great Outdoors is not arranging air, ground transportation, or lodging for members on the Big Island of Hawaii. 

        Register- Please RSVP for a day hike so I know who is coming.

        I will email attendees with essential details such as trailhead location, parking, and hike mileage and elevation gain for each day hike up to two weeks before the event. 

        I am visiting the Big Island of Hawaii the week of 4/26 to 5/03/26 and inviting other Great Outdoors members to join me on day hikes on Tuesday 4/28 and Thursday 4/30/26.

        I am staying in Kailua-Kona, so if you are also visiting the Big Island of Hawaii during the last week of April 2026, reach out and let’s meet up.



        Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

        Climate- In late April, the climate on the Big Island of Hawaii is generally pleasant, with daytime temperatures averaging in the high 70’s to low 80’s F and evening temperatures dropping into the 60’s F.  This month marks the end of the rainy season, so you can expect fewer rain showers, although it’s still possible to experience some rain, especially at night.

        Questions?

        Email Michael at [email protected]

        Disclosure- I do not respond to emails immediately due to my non-traditional work schedule. I will respond to emails about this event on my days off. 





















        • Tue, April 28, 2026
        • 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
        • Online using Zoom



        PLEASE NOTE: This PS Monthly Membership Meeting is held Online Using Zoom ONLY

        GOPS Monthly Core Group Meetings are usually held on the fourth Tuesday of each month starting at 6:30 pm, subject to change due to holidays and conflicting events. Meetings can be attended online via Zoom each month.

        Meetings are held simultaneously in-person in January,  March,  May,  July,  September and November 2023 and via Zoom. In-person meetings are held at the Center, 3rd floor Meeting Room 3, 1301 North Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs, CA.

        Meetings are held only via Zoom in February, April, June, August, October and December.

        Check the event registration details for the date and the particulars of the meeting.

        GOPS members can attend by registering for the meeting. For best results in attending via Zoom, plan to use a computer or tablet equipped with a camera and microphone. Information on how to enter the Zoom meeting will be provided to registrants in their Confirmation and Reminder emails.

        • Thu, April 30, 2026
        • 4:00 PM
        • Sun, May 03, 2026
        • 12:00 PM
        • 936 Main Street, Morro Bay, CA 93442

        Cruisin’ Morro Bay 2026

        The Morro Bay Car Show is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of community spirit. Each year, it brings together classic car enthusiasts while supporting local businesses, charities, and organizations. With a focus on creating an inclusive and fun experience, the show fosters a sense of togetherness throughout Morro Bay and beyond.

        Website: https://www.morrobaycarshow.org/

        WHEN: April 30 to May 3. More info to follow...
        *Registration is not open at this time*

        • Sat, May 02, 2026
        • 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
        • Palm Springs, CA

        (Write a brief message here about why you like this hike and others may too. Example for Oswit Canyon: Explore one of our best natural areas that is home to a variety of desert vegetation and wildlife. Enjoy mountain/canyon views while overlooking Palm Springs. The turnaround point features a waterfall at a palm oasis.)

        Description:

        • Trail Length:
        • Elevation Gain/Loss: 
        • Difficulty Rating: 
        • Trail Type: 
        • Terrain: 
        •         AM Meet at Palm Springs PetsMart, Ramon/Crossley   Map click here

        Bring: Ten Essentials, water (2 to 3 liters recommended), lunch/ snacks, sun protection, layered clothing, hiking poles may be helpful. Carry emergency contact information. Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required. 

        Hiking Requirements (How can I tell if a hike is for me?). You will need to be in good physical condition for this hike. Click here for more information.

        Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share. Carpool transportation is at the sole risk of the participants.  Arrive a few minutes early for briefing and carpooling. Departure is       AM from 

        Contact hike leader:  Bill B.

        Cancel: If you cannot make a hike for which you have registered please cancel as others may be on the waitlist. You may cancel directly from your profile settings or notify the hike leader.

        Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.

        Unless otherwise noted, registration for this event is limited to Great Outdoors members. To sign up as a memberclick here 


        Photos: (optional)

        Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels

        Pets allowed? (Leader discretion if allowed by land agency)

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


        © 1981 - 2025 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy


        • Tue, May 05, 2026
        • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
        • Palm Springs

        • Length: Approx 4 miles
        • Route: Out and Back
        • Hike time: Approx 2 hours
        • Elevation Gain: Approx 700'
        • Difficulty: Moderate

        Meet at 10:00 AM at the Rimrock Plaza (Vons) 4733 E Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs. Park east of the plaza parking lot on or near the dirt roadway. Arrive about 15 minutes early for introductions and briefing. Map Click Here

        Description: The hike starts at the dirt road at the far east side of Rimrock Plaza. At the water reservoir tanks we pick up a trail to the top of a plateau that affords great views of Palm Springs, Cathedral City and Murray Peak. We then hike the plateau until we descend into Eagle Canyon at Jane's Hoffbrau Palm Oasis. This is a small beautiful oasis with dry waterfalls and a stand of Washingtonia palm trees. We will relax in the shade of the palms and then proceed down the canyon beneath high canyon walls and aside large boulders in the wash.  At the end of the canyon we'll go back up the canyon to the trail to a view point and back to the trailhead at Vons.

        Optional Lunch after the hike: Location TBD (La Perlita or Manhatten Deil)

        Bring Ten Essentials (click here), water (1 to 2 liters recommended), trail snacks, sun protection, layered clothing. Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE). Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required. Hiking poles may be helpful

        Contact Hike Leader:  Pat M. 

           

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




        • Sat, May 09, 2026
        • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
        • Eric and Tyler's House, La Mesa CA 91942
        Register

        A Paint Lesson for Mom's Day!

        Saturday May 9th, 2026 @ 2pm in La Mesa

        EP68- 'Mother's Day Tattoo Heart' rustic easy acrylic painting tutorial for beginners - YouTube

        Join us for a fun and creative art class where we'll design beautiful abstract paintings featuring dedicated painting with Moms at the center! Personalize your masterpiece by adding a name, short poem, or an inspiring quote. No experience needed-just bring your imagination and love!

        Start Time and Location: Tyler and Eric's House, La Mesa, CA 91942

        Event Specific Challenges (stairs, animals, allergens): Animals will be present

        Event Specific Equipment: All equipment provided

        Parking Information: Street parking is available

        Costs involved: $5/person

        Pets Permitted: Dog friendly

        What to Bring: Just your imagination and love!

        Who to Contact with Questions: Trip leader Dominic Dettore via email [email protected]


        Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

        Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.

        • Tue, May 12, 2026
        • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
        • Off the Shelf Games: 173 Fletcher Pkwy, El Cajon, CA 92020
        Register

        Game Night in El Cajon!

        Join us for games and fun!

        Parking Information: Parking lot

        Costs involved: $8/person

        Pets Permitted: No

        Who to Contact with Questions: Tyler Roosden, 651.497.1611


        Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

        Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.

        • Fri, May 15, 2026
        • 8:30 AM
        • Sun, May 17, 2026
        • 6:00 PM
        • Ensenada Region of Baja California
        • 0
        Join waitlist


        3 DAY, 2 NIGHT BAJA EXPEDITION: 

        HIKING + NATURE + WINERIES + BAJA CUISINE

        May 15th-17th, 2026


        The Ensenada region of Baja California, only an hour and a half south of the border from San Diego, offers spectacular hiking through the coastal and woodland landscapes in full spring bloom as well as an explosion of wineries, and fine Baja-Fusion cuisine in the Guadalupe Valley and Ensenada Coast. This trip brings the highlights of all of these for a small group of 8 guests who will also enjoy fabulous ocean-view lodging in one of the area's premier coastal communities.

        GO member Mike Wilken, your guide, is an anthropologist and naturalist who lives in Baja California and has worked in the region for over 32 years. Dr. Gerry Chavez, driver and co-guide, is a local geographer with an extensive knowledge of the environments of the region. Both are happy to share their knowledge of native plants and wildlife, geology, native cultures and history for interested guests.

        The $560 per solo person and $1120 per pair cost includes a 3 day guided expedition with transportation starting from the Tecate border and throughout the trip, three meals including delicious daily breakfasts at our ocean-view vacation home lodging, and one wine tasting. Guests cover four no-host meals, and any extra wine and beer tastings or purchases. 


        This trip is designed for 8 guests. Lodging is double occupancy in our comfortable ocean-view vacation home with extra sofas, living areas, kitchens, and garden spaces. Our transportation is in a 12-passenger van with room in the back for luggage. 

        Cancellation Policy - Refund deadline is 30 days beforehand, no refund after 30 days unless a substitute is identified.

        MIGRATORY DOCUMENTS and crossing the border: Walking into Mexico: By parking on the US side of the border, you will avoid the long lines coming back, since you will walk back through the quick pedestrian entry at the end of trip. We will meet you on the US side and walk you through customs to our van. You will need to have a US passport and get a Mexican tourist visa (FMM) for this trip. You get it online, and there should be no cost because you are only going to be in Mexico for 3 days. Instructions will be sent to participants. 

        US Citizens must have a US passport for land-based border crossing back into the US. Non-US citizens should bring all necessary documents for re-entry into the US.

        For more information, feel free to contact Mike Wilken: [email protected]

        HIKES EVERY DAY:

        Professor's Park and Las Piedras Environmental Education Center is an easy 2 mile loop trail near Tecate with trails through well-preserved chaparral vegetation, giant boulders and views to Mount Cuchumaa (Tecate Peak). Your guides Mike and Gerry will enhance your experience through their knowledge of the flora, fauna, geology, and indigenous history of the area.  


        Las Piedras Environmental Education Center


        Trails through beautiful chaparral habitat at the base of Mount Cuchuma. Learn about traditional uses of native plants along the way.


        Arbolitos trail follows the rugged mountain range with dramatic views of both the Pacific and of the Bay of  Ensenada, passing through fields of native Shaw’s agave plants and rare, beautiful coastal  succulent scrub habitat. Our picnic spot provides breathtaking views of the Pacific coast. Approximately 4 hour hike including lunch.


        Optional morning hike into coastal hills in the Ensenada region. Leaving from our  host's home, we will take an easy 2 mile out-and-back hike into the hills overlooking Ensenada  Bay. Enjoy panoramic views and the chance to learn more about the ethnobotany and natural  history of the region. (Or just relax at our lodging and hang out in the fabulous ocean view  gardens!)

        TASTY BAJA FUSION DINING:

        WINERIES: The Guadalupe Valley is Mexico's premiere wine-producing area

        Lodging will be at the Baja House and the Mexico House, which share the same garden and views. See a description of the Baja House Here:

        airbnb.com/h/baja-ocean-view-villa-rustica



        EXPEDITION ITINERARY

        Three days/two nights, April 10-12

        Meals and tastings included in the expedition are indicated as "provided" otherwise  they are no host (each guest pays own). Actual wineries and restaurants may  change as we find out what each group prefers. We reserve the right to make  minor changes as necessary to the published itinerary.

        Day 1: Friday, May 15

        9:00:  Arrive to the US side of Tecate, leave cars in fenced parking lots ($5-10 a day) and meet 5 mins away at the Duty Free Store just before the border crossing. Guide will meet you there and walk you over border to get paperwork stamped and take you to the van.

        9:30 Visit "El Mejor Pan" bakery in Tecate

        10:00 Visit Tecate Community Museum

        11:00 Ethnobotanical hike at Parque del Professor in Tecate. Visit Las Piedras Environmental Education center (hobbit-like caves) run by Funcacion La Puerta 

        1:00 Lunch at el Cafecito restaurant 


        2:30 Leave for Guadalupe Valley 


        3:30 Wine tasting in Guadalupe Valley (Las Nubes)(provided)


        4:45 Leave for the coast 


        5:30 Arrive at Baja House Vacation Home lodging, freshen up 


        7:00 Dinner along coast (Punta Morro)


        9:00 Return to our lodging


        Day 2: Saturday, May 16


        8:00 Breakfast at the Baja House (provided

        9:00 Leave for hike

        10:30 Arrive at trailhead (Arolitos, Punta Banda)

        12:30 Picnic lunch (provided) (Deli Loop) 


        1:30 Return trip to trailhead 


        3:00 Depart  


        4:30 Arrive at the Baka House, margaritas, salsa, chips at the Baja House

         

        6:00 Dinner at the Baja House (provided)


        7:00 Bonfire


        Day 3: Sunday, May 17

        8:00 Breakfast at the Baja House (provided


        9:30 Optional hike from the Baja House (or just stay and relax) 


        11:30 Pack up and leave the Baja House 


        12:00 Guadalupe valley, tour around


        1:00 Lunch in the valley (Bruma Winegarden)

        4:00 Leave for Tecate 

        5:45 Arrive at Tecate pedestrian border crossing, easy walk through customs and return to your vehicles. 


        The magic gardens of the Baja House, relax and enjoy! 





        Mike Wilken, your guide, is the author of the award-winning book Kumeyaay Ethnobotany



        • Fri, May 15, 2026
        • 4:00 PM
        • Mon, May 18, 2026
        • 11:00 AM
        • Yosemite Valley, Camp Curry
        • 1
        Register


        OCLB Annual Yosemite Trip!


        Heaven On Earth!

        Pictured above:  Glacier Point just before starting the Panorama Trail.

        Pictured above:  On top of Yosemite Falls - what an accomplishment.

        Pictured above:  All smiles on one of the most difficult trails in Yosemite.

        Orange County/Long Beach

        goes to 

        Yosemite National Park

        Curry Village Canvas Tents

        May 15-18, 2026

        Need we say more?

         Yes we will! 

        Spring in Yosemite can't be beat!

        We will be heading to Yosemite at the BEST time to visit this illustrious National Park!  The weather will be amazing with the waterfalls at their most dynamic! Our lodging for the 3-night outing will be in Camp Curry, in unheated canvas tents.

        These events get sold out to capacity each year!

        Do NOT hesitate to book as soon as possible as we expect this event to be SOLD OUT again!


        Yosemite is one of the most popular National Parks in the country and we in southern California are very fortunate to have it so close. If you have never seen it then this Great Outdoors trip is a good opportunity for you to be introduced to this special place.

        If you have been there one or more times, then you’ll understand why many have made a Yosemite visit an annual event.  The grandeur and majesty of the park are so enriching that Yosemite can be experienced and enjoyed again and again.  The natural beauty of the park has inspired many for the last 150 years, but perhaps none more effusive than John Muir, who said of Yosemite, “It is by far the grandest of all the special temples of Nature I was ever permitted to enter.” Please join us in this temple of the great outdoors.

        Pictured above:  Richard, Mike and Claudia half way up to the top of upper Yosemite Falls, this photo is at the top of lower Yosemite Falls.

        The location of this trip will be Yosemite Valley.  Our accommodations are canvas tents in Camp Curry, a rustic but charming village near the east end of the valley.

        Arrival should be about 4:00 pm on Friday afternoon.

        For both Saturday and Sunday, there will be optional hikes each day to choose from - one will be strenuous, the other will be easy.  Or simply visit the galleries, stores, bike ride, museums and/or stroll in the valley floor!


        Pictured above:  We are hitting the Panorama Trail that will put us back to Yosemite Valley - 8 Miles.  Yippee!

        On Monday morning we must check out of the cabins by 11:00 am. 

        More details will be announced as we finalize registration.

        Canvas Tents:

        We have secured four canvas tents for our group.  

        Each tent has 3 single beds and a double.  We can max out at 5 people per tent.  We are hoping to get a couple or friends (with benefits or without benefits) to share the double bed.  This way we can max out each tent with 5 people so that we can get as many as possible to experience Yosemite for this excursion.

        If you want to be in the same tent with another member please note that on the registration.

        If you prefer sharing a double cot with someone please note that on the registration and who the person is so we match you with the correct person.

        If you have a LOUD snoring issue, you should consider not attending so that others will not be affected by the noise.  This is close sleeping quarters.




         Driving & Directions:

        While GO is not authorized to be directly involved in coordinating carpools, we highly recommend our members to consider carpooling!

        What else?

        Cooking facilities/campfire rings are not available in Curry Village. However, there are several dining options near our cabins.  




        Such as Pizza & Beer, Cafeteria (with Vegan options!) and of course burgers & fries too. A general store is also open for purchasing food items and other material goods. You may bring snack food and drinks, but all food and scented items must be stored in the bear-proof storage locker in front of the cabin. This includes all food, food related items, toiletries, sundries and ice chests. Bears have a strong sense of smell and are attracted to anything they think will lead them to human food. Remember not to store these items in your vehicle or  canvas tent . It is recommended to use sealed plastic containers for storing your food inside the bear boxes. This makes it easier to keep your food organized, and away from campground critters.

        And of course, there is the option of having some fine dining at the Awahnee!


        Showers, sinks and flush toilets are all available to participants.

        Be sure to remember a flashlight or headlamp to find your way around Camp Curry at night. In addition, a sleeping bag (recommended), an extra blanket or a honey bunny may help keep you warm at night.  Other things to bring:

        Warm outer gear appropriate for snow and/or rain or Shorts and T-shirts for warm days

        Layered under gear (long underwear, etc.)

        Hat, gloves, scarf, etc.

        Sunglasses, sun block (for your face), lip balm 

        Sturdy hiking shoes 


        Weather: Average temperatures in May in the Yosemite Valley range from the low 50s (night time) to the low-mid 70s during the day. Conditions may vary between sun, clouds, rain, or snow. Be prepared for anything. Expect the unexpected!  

        The trip leader will inform you of the weather conditions a couple days before our arrival but you may also want to keep abreast of them by using the Yosemite National Park website. (Click here.)





        Price: 

        $225 for Great Outdoors members for the 4 days/3 nights event.  Come early on Friday to enjoy the park and/or stay late on Monday to enjoy the park!  We will check into our canvas tents at 4 PM on Friday.

        This is a members only event, thus an annual membership ($25) must be purchased prior to signing up for this event.

        If you have a LOUD snoring issue, you should consider not attending so that others will not be affected by the noise.  This is close sleeping quarters.

        Cancellations will be authorized up to 21 days prior to start day of event IF a replacement can be found; a $20 cancellation fee will be charged.

        Trip Leader: Lance Whitmier



        Lance states:  Yosemite mesmerized me the very first time I visited the Park in the 90's.  I always brag about the majestic beauty of Yosemite along with it's grandeur and power.  I claim that Yosemite is indeed "my Heaven on Earth" and I can't wait to share the experience with you!"  For those visiting Yosemite for the first time - be prepared to experience a bit of heaven and the surreal!

        Lance can be contacted at:

        [email protected]

        Photos: Previous OCLB Yosemite Treks

        We have a great, fun time! Join us!











          

         

        • Wed, May 20, 2026
        • 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
        • 83775 Citrus Ave, Indio
        Register

        The Find Food Bank is one of many regional food banks across the US that acts as a hub, sourcing food from a variety of places across the US and from people, processing it safely in our warehouse, and distributing it equitably to the hundreds of food pantries, nonprofit organizations, soup kitchens, homeless shelters, and Mobile Markets that serve individual communities across the desert region.

        Come join us at the Findl Food Bank in Indio and help prepare food boxes for distribution to families in need through out the valley.  We will work a 3 hour shift (8-11 am) and then after go to  lunch at TKB Bakery & Deli Website click here

        7:15 AM Meet at Palm Springs PetsMart, Ramon/Crossley   Map click here

        or 8:00 AM at the Food Bank 83775 Citrus Ave, Indio, CA 92201 MAP

        Wear comfortable closed toe, sturdy footwear.

        Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share. Carpool transportation is at the sole risk of the participants.  Arrive a few minutes early for briefing and carpooling.

        Contact hike leader:  H.L. Todd: EMAIL

        Cancel: If you cannot make this event, please cancel as others may be on the waitlist. You may cancel directly from your profile settings or notify the event leader.

        © 1981 - 2026 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy


        • Sat, May 23, 2026
        • 7:30 AM - 3:00 PM
        • El Capitan County Preserve: 13775 Blue Sky Ranch Road, Lakeside, CA 92040
        Register

        Warrior Hike - El Capitan Mountain

        Saturday May 23, 2026 at 7:30am

        Best hikes and trails in El Capitan County Preserve | AllTrails

        Follow the El Cajon Mountain Summit Trail to the top of El Capitan. The top offers wonderful views of the surrounding area and the mountainside dotted with large granite boulders. The trail is steep and can be loose in some areas, good hiking footwear is necessary and many hikers choose to bring trekking poles along.

        Note: This event is hosted by San Diego County Parks and Recreation, signing up for this event will only express interest in attending the event on your own to meet up with other GOSD members, including a GOSD Trip Leader.

        Hike Start Time and Location: 7:30am at El Capitan County Preserve: 13775 Blue Sky Ranch Road, Lakeside, CA 92040

        Hike Length: 11 miles round with optional turnaround points at 1 and 3miles. 

        Hike Elevation Change: 3300 ft

        Hike Difficulty Rating: Easy to Difficult depending on turnaround point.

        Estimated Hike Time: 7 Hours - 8 Hours including a water/nutrition stop and a lunch break

        Hike Type (out-and-back, loop, shuttle): out-and-back

        Hiking Trail Details: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/el-capitan--2

        Hike Specific Challenges (scrambling, narrow passages, allergens): Elevation and Length

        Costs involved: None

        Pets Permitted: Not permitted

        What to Bring in Addition to Your 10 Essentials*: N/A

        Who to Contact with Questions: Trip Leader Tyler Roosden at [email protected]

        *Note on the 10 essentials - The 10 essentials are a collection or system of items that significantly increase your safety on any hike or outdoors trip. This is not an exhaustive list of anything you could ever need. You can visit the link included Here but one version of this list is as follows:

        1. Navigation

        2. Headlamp

        3. Sun Protection

        4. First Aid

        5. Knife

        6. Fire

        7. Shelter

        8. Extra food

        9. Extra water

        10. Extra clothes


        Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

        Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.

        • Thu, May 28, 2026
        • 12:00 PM
        • Sun, May 31, 2026
        • 12:00 PM
        • Hurkey Creek Campground


        ALLCHAPTER JAMBOREE

        SAVE THE DATE

        WE HAVE SECURED AND CONFIRMED RESERVATION FOR THE BEST GROUP SITE. This event is being planned by Great Outdoors Corporate. For more information about this trip, check back here for updates. 





        • Fri, May 29, 2026
        • 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
        • 100 Pomeroy Avenue, Pismo Beach, CA 93449

        DAY WALK: PISMO BEACH CLASSIC CAR SHOW

        The 40th Annual Classic at Pismo Beach Car Show
        features classic cars, live music, vendors, and charity events like auctions and cruises, drawing crowds to enjoy the ocean views and hot rods right on the beachside. This popular event includes show & shine, beer/wine, and community vibes. The car show runs throughout the weekend of May 29th to May 31st, but this specific day walk is on May 29th.

        Here is the link to see this event closer:  https://experiencepismobeach.com/pismo-beach-classic-car-show/

        WHEN: May 29, 2026; 12 PM to 4 PM.

        WHERE TO PARK: TBD

        *Registration for this event is not open yet. More information to follow.*

        • Fri, June 12, 2026
        • 2:00 PM
        • Mon, June 15, 2026
        • 12:00 PM
        • Sherwin Creek Campground, Mammoth Lakes, INYO NATIONAL FOREST, CA

        REGISTRATION IS NOT YET OPEN


        Save The Dates!

        Mammoth Lakes/ Owen's Valley Camping

        Start:  Fri June 12, 2026, 2 PM

        End:  Mon, June 15, 2026, 12:00 PM

        Location:  Sherwin Creek Campground, Mammoth Lakes, INYO NATIONAL FOREST, CA

        This event is being planned by the GO Los Angeles Chapter.

        Please check back here for updates or contact trip leaders:

        Joe Holliday [email protected] or

        John Blasco at [email protected]


        © 1981 - 2026 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy


        • Sun, June 14, 2026
        • 2:00 PM
        • Wed, June 17, 2026
        • 12:00 PM
        • Guajome Regional Park, Oceanside, CA

        Guajome Regional Park offers full hookup sites water, electric 20/30/50 amps, sewer hookups, paved driveways, fire rings, and tables. Coin-operated, hot showers, restrooms with flush toilets, and a waste water dump station. One tent and one RV (< or = 45ft.) or two tents will share each each site.  Both inhabitants will have access to the water and electricity. There is plenty of overflow parking for extra vehicles.

        The park is at an elevation of 130 ft. above sea level. Afternoon ocean breezes keep the park pleasant year-round.

        Guajome Regional Park is great for bicycling enthusiasts. It has numerous paved roadways within the park suitable for bicycling. There is also an excellent 10 mile bike only path from just outside the park into the Oceanside beachfront. At the beachfront, The trail merges with the oceanfront road leading to many shops and restaurants. 

        There are 3.5 miles of well-maintained hiking trails that meander through diverse Southern California habitats such as woodlands, chaparral, wetlands, and mixed grasslands. There are eight named trails, including a short self guided nature trail, and a couple of unnamed trails.

        The park is close to other historical points of interest such as the Rancho Guajome Adobe, designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1970 and the San Luis Rey Mission, one of the twenty-one California missions, which was founded in 1798.

        There is a bicycle trailhead just outside of the park that extends through nearby Oceanside, all the way to the coast. The city of Oceanside itself offers beaches, a pier and harbor, shopping, and restaurants.  Black's Beach is a 45 minute drive down the I-5.

        Park brochure - click here.

        Tentative Schedule of Events

        Sunday, June 14

        • 2pm - Check-in @ site TBD (please don't arrive early, they are strict about this)
        • 6pm - Meet n’ Greet @ Site TBD: BYOB, bring Hor'devours to share, if you want
        • 7pm - Dinner on your own, many many restaurants nearby
        • 8pm - Group campfire @ Site TBD (bring firewood)

        Monday, June 15

        • 7am - Coffee and Continental Breakfast @ Site TBD (volunteer coffee Tsar wanted)
        • 9am - *Bike ride on paved biking trail to the ocean, and back.  Transportation will be provided for those who cannot or do not want to ride back.
        • 1pm: *Sun and fun at the beach!  There are several beaches to choose from, suggestions welcome.  Parking will come with a fee, so carpool is encouraged.  Local Beaches
        • 6pm - Potluck @ Site TBD (bring a dish to share)
        • 8pm - Group campfire @ site TBD (bring firewood)

        Tuesday, June 16

        • 7am - Coffee and continental breakfast @ Site TBD (volunteer coffee Tsar wanted) 
        • 9am - *Hike the local nature trails in the park and explore the marshes/lake, how about a volleyball game or game of horseshoes?
        • 11am - *Carpool to Del Rey Mission, 15-minute drive, there is an admission fee you will have to pay. Alternative activity: suggestions welcome, See whiteboard
        • 2pm - *Wine aficionados, there are two vineyards in the area: Carruth Cellarstasting room open M-Th 4-6pm, and Coomber Craft Wines, reservations required.  
        • 6pm - Dinner on our own, or leftovers dinner together @ Site TBD
        • 8pm - Group campfire @ Site TBD (bring firewood)

        Wednesday, June 17

        • 7am - Coffee and continental breakfast leftovers (volunteer coffee Tsar wanted)
        • 9am - pack up and clean up, say our tearful goodbyes, lots of hugging encouraged! 
        • 12pm - Check out
        *All activities are subject to change, check campout whiteboard for updates.

        Contact Trip Leader: Robert Varga - via email to [email protected] or text (760) 641-9112.

        Prices:  Prices listed are per person.  Each person going must complete a separate registration. We do this so each registrant acknowledges our liability waiver condition.

        Registration: Enter the license number of your primary vehicle and a tow vehicle. This will speed the check in process at the gate.

        Payments:  This event is limited to GO members.  When you register, you'll need to have your credit card (MC, VISA, Discover or Amex.) ready and pay your registration fee within 15 mins. If you are not a member yet, you can first join as a member online (click here) and then return here to register.

        Refunds:  Cancellation for a refund, minus $10 must be received before June 1st, 2025.   On June 1st, 2025 and after, no refund will be issued. All cancellation requests must be sent to the Trip Leader (see email above). 

        What to Bring:  Camp chair, camping/cooking gear, food, warm/cool/wet weather clothing, potluck item, one bundle of firewood per person and the Ten Essentials

        Directions Guajome Regional Park Campground, 3000 Guajome Lake Road, Oceanside, CA 92057.  Google map directions - click here.

        From Coachella Valley:  Take I-10W to I-215S to I-15, exit onto Highway 76, turn right on SR-76 and head west. Turn left onto Guajome Lake Road.  The campground entrance will be on the right.

        Climate: Average temperatures - high 75,  low 65. View weather forecast - click here

        Pets: Are permitted if they are properly restrained and under the control of the owner. Dogs must be licensed, restrained on a leash no longer than six feet, and attended at all times. Please pick up after your pet.   $1/night for each pet; you would pay upon arrival.

        Health Problems/allergies  Discuss any medical concerns with the event leader that may affect your ability to participate in this event.




        • Wed, June 17, 2026
        • 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
        • 83775 Citrus Ave, Indio
        Register

        The Find Food Bank is one of many regional food banks across the US that acts as a hub, sourcing food from a variety of places across the US and from people, processing it safely in our warehouse, and distributing it equitably to the hundreds of food pantries, nonprofit organizations, soup kitchens, homeless shelters, and Mobile Markets that serve individual communities across the desert region.

        Come join us at the Findl Food Bank in Indio and help prepare food boxes for distribution to families in need through out the valley.  We will work a 3 hour shift (8-11 am) and then after go to  lunch at TKB Bakery & Deli Website click here

        7:15 AM Meet at Palm Springs PetsMart, Ramon/Crossley   Map click here

        or 8:00 AM at the Food Bank 83775 Citrus Ave, Indio, CA 92201 MAP

        Wear comfortable closed toe, sturdy footwear.

        Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share. Carpool transportation is at the sole risk of the participants.  Arrive a few minutes early for briefing and carpooling.

        Contact hike leader:  H.L. Todd: EMAIL

        Cancel: If you cannot make this event, please cancel as others may be on the waitlist. You may cancel directly from your profile settings or notify the event leader.

        © 1981 - 2026 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy


        • Sun, July 05, 2026
        • 3:00 PM
        • Sat, July 11, 2026
        • 2:00 PM
        • Four Jeffrey Campground - Inyo National Forest
        • 15
        Register

        John Muir Wilderness 9 Lakes Backpack

        in the Sabrina Basin (Intermediate)

        July 5-7 Campout, July 7-11 Backpack 

        Total Distance: 17miles (7mi with backpack)  Elevation Gain: 3,400ft (1,500 with backpack) Route Type: Out and Back 


        We have room for up to 10 backpackers, plus 10 car campers (or 5 RVs)

        If you’ve longed for space and time to soak in the unfathomable beauty of a place and love to wander and explore and bask in the majesty of wilderness without having to pack up and move camp and hike every day, this trip is for you! Every part of this trip is spectacular! It is rated as intermediate based on length of the backpack (4 nights/5 days), distance traveled from vehicles, terrain, elevation, elevation gain and loss and expected weather. 

        Blue Lake: In Inyo National Forest (Sabrina Basin) is a stunning, crystal-clear alpine lake at roughly 10,400 feet elevation. Known for its brilliant blue-green water, it is surrounded by jagged 13,000-foot granite peaks, meadows, and wildflowers, offering a quintessential Sierra Nevada wilderness experience. Situated in the John Muir Wilderness above Lake Sabrina, the area features waterfalls, dramatic granite cliffs, and high alpine meadows. The trail to Blue Lake is well-traveled, often serving as a starting point for exploring deeper into the Sabrina Basin, including Dingleberry, Hungry Packer, and Midnight Lakes, and we will explore all of those lakes – and more – on this trip.

        Night sky: This trip will offer exceptional, dark-sky viewing conditions with a waning crescent moon that rises late, allowing for prime stargazing. Early July is peak season for viewing the galactic core of the Milky Way, with the best viewing being between 00:00 and 5:00. The Alpha Capricornids meteor shower will be active. It is known for producing slow-moving, bright fireballs. Venus will rise more than 2 hours before sunrise, while Mars and Uranus will be close together in the sky on July 4.

        Schedule

        • Sunday, July 5 Arrive, check in, set up, welcome tea, campfire. We will enjoy the first two nights at beautiful and spacious Four Jeffrey Campground in the Inyo National Forest, which extends along the South Fork of Bishop Creek at 8,300 ft. elevation. Two sides are shaded by aspens, cottonwoods, and Jeffrey and lodgepole pines. Each campsite accommodates 2 vehicles and up to 6 campers, with a bear locker and picnic table. Restrooms have flush toilets and sinks. Firewood is available from the camp hosts.
        • Monday, July 6 Two options for activities:
          • Boating on Sabrina Lake, picnic lunch, dinner, campfire (boat rental not included in registration fee, last time we rented a rowboat. Fishing is also an option).
          • Moderate loop hike to Long Lake (https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/long-lake-via-bishop-pass-trail) which starts from the South Lake trailhead and goes part way to Bishop Pass, (https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/chocolate-lakes-loop-trail), tea, pot luck dinner, campfire.
        • Tuesday, July 7 - Any car campers will break camp and head home by noon. Backpackers will drive to the Sabrina Lake trailhead and park, then hike to Blue Lake and set up camp for 4 nights on the granite benches on the west-side of Blue Lake. Explore the lake, soak your feet, take a dip.

        • Wednesday, July 8 - Day hike to Baboon Lakes (2 mi. rt, 600 ft. elev. Gain), or Donkey Lake (1 mi. rt, 240 ft. elev. Gain). The view of the Sierra Crest reflecting in the upper Baboon Lake is considered one of the most beautiful spots in the Sabrina Basin.

        • Thursday, July 9 -  day hike to Hungry Packer, Midnight, and Moonlight Lakes (7-8 miles rt, 1,500 ft. elev. Gain/loss). Here is a beautiful blog with pictures and short descriptions of the hike: https://www.out-hiking.com/blog/backpacking-to-hungry-packer-lake-bishop-california


        • Friday, July 10 - Free day – rest, relax, explore other nearby lakes (e.g. Emerald).

        • Saturday, July 11 - break camp, hike back down to Sabrina Lake parking lot, drive home

        Important Considerations:

        • Must have at least:
          • Basic backpacking experience
          • Some lightweight gear that is suitable for backpacking. Note: Some items may be loaned by the trip leader and/or SDGO as needed but would need to be determined well in advance of the trip.
        • All food and toiletries for the 4-night, 5-day backpack must be stored and carried in a bear canister in your backpack.
        • Must be able to carry a 35-40 lb. pack uphill at a moderate pace for 4 miles at elevations from 9,000-11,500 feet.
        • We will rotate carrying any group equipment (e.g. first aid kit, water filters, mosquito shelter).
        • After registration, please expect an email from the trip leader, Steve Fitzgerald ([email protected]) to arrange a time to discuss this trip, answer any questions you may have, and make sure it is right for you.
        • We lucked out and were able to obtain a wilderness pass for up to 10 backpackers in our group!
        • Priority will be given to those who are able to commit to the entire trip. If you’d like to join but can only participate for part of the trip, please contact Steve to discuss.
        Weather:Expect warm days and chilly (low-mid 40s) evenings and mornings. Dressing in layers is the best way to manage the possible range of temperatures. Precipitation is always a possibility, so rain gear is mandatory.

        Bring: 10 Essentials for the campout and hike. Steve will send registered backpackers a list of required and recommended gear for the 4-night backpack. 

        Cost:$40 for tent Camper Only, $50 for Camper/Backpacker, $80 for RV camper only (note: no hookups). When capacity is reached, a waiting list will be in effect. Cancel by June 15 to receive a refund.

        Other considerations: As with any backcountry experience, this one is "Leave no Trace" - our trash comes out with us, including toilet paper, and excrement is buried and covered far away from water sources. Active bear area - mandatory use of either bear cannisters or hanging food sacks.  

        Directions370 miles, 6+ hours from San Diego. Take 15 to 215 to 395 N to Bishop. In Bishop, turn left on S Lake Rd (CA 168) and follow it 15 miles to Four Jeffrey Campground in Inyo National Forest, and turn LEFT into the entrance, then right to our reserved sites.

        Trip Leader: Please contact Steve Fitzgerald at steve.thrives@gmail.com


        • Thu, July 09, 2026
        • 2:00 PM
        • Sun, July 12, 2026
        • 11:00 AM
        • 32° 53' 15.0000" N 116° 26' 26.9999" W
        • 16
        Register

        GOSD Free Membership Campout!

        Laguna Mountains: Horse Heaven Campground


        Description

        Contrary to its name, Horse Heaven Group Campground has no equestrian sites. Instead, this tent-only facility can accommodate group gatherings. It provides a great mountain getaway for city dwellers to relax and enjoy cool summer temperatures, hiking and other outdoor recreation, just one hour east of San Diego.

        Facilities

        This site offers three areas for group gatherings: Lupine Loop can accommodate 40 people and 10 vehicles; The facility is equipped with vault toilets and drinking water. A general store is located 2.3 miles away at Mt. Laguna and Pine Valley. Opening and closing times can vary for these two locations.

        Natural Features

        The campground sits at an elevation of 6,000 ft. in the Laguna Mountains. It is forested with pines and oaks that provide plenty of shade, in addition to a meadow. The area is home to many species of birds, as well as the endangered Laguna Skipper butterfly. Little Laguna lake is located just a short distance from the campground and is an excellent hiking destination for photographers and visitors looking to explore the area. 

        Recreation

        The Laguna Mountain Recreation Area is known for great horseback riding, mountain biking and hiking trails. Visitors can get their boots dusty on the Laguna Meadow Trail system or access a segment of the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail, which runs from California to the State of Washington. Wildflowers are usually abundant in April and May on the Big Laguna Trail, which takes visitors past Big Laguna Lake. In wet years there is water in Big Laguna Lake by December or January and ducks and other birds can be found. The trail presents a number of options to the user. A return to the trailhead parking can be made by cutting through the Laguna Campground or by taking the Pacific Crest Trail north. Families can learn about the area's flora and fauna by attending educational programs at the facility's amphitheater. Or for history buffs, the El Prado Cabin located at nearby El Prado Campground, is the first ranger cabin built in the Cleveland National Forest in 1911. The San Diego State University Observatory also sponsors "Star Parties" for campers most Saturday evenings during the summer (schedule can be obtained at the nearby visitor center or by calling 619-473-8547).



        Horse Heaven can be reached by taking Sunrise Highway (S1) from the I-8 freeway. Go up through the mountain. After you pass the lodge (Note this is a 40MPH section), you will reach this sign shown in the first photo above. I’ve provided a short video above that describes what to look out for. The section past the sign will be narrow. Keep to your left when driving on the narrow section.

        GPS coords: https://maps.app.goo.gl/V8mY99mQxaiRusR2A

        Parking - Parking at Horse Heaven.

        For non-overnight campers: Please do not park in the first 10 spots if you are only planning to day hike. Keep these spots reserved for campers only.

        Sunrise Mt Laguna: 6:05AM Sunset Mt Laguna: 7:37.

        Horse Heaven group campsite has been reserved for us from Thursday, August 21 at 2:00PM to Sunday, August 24 at 11:00AM. Everyone must vacate the campground before 11:00AM and take everything that was brought in.

        A sign-in form will be on the table in the campground. Please write your name on the paper and write when you leave/enter the campground. This just assures me that nobody is lost.

        Please check the hikes here and sign up for any that interest you. The Laguna lake hike does not require a signup

        I’ve provided photos at https://photos.app.goo.gl/EoxPJcXvQSjyK8UP7 of sections of the campsite and a couple of videos. When I was up there (Jul 1), temps were mild, there was toilet paper, two toilets, and running clean water.

        Potluck (including ideas)

        Bring any breakfast or dinner idea for the potluck. Simple ideas could include chopped bananas with toothpicks, a box of energy bars, or sandwiches, etc. Also, bringing bowls and spoons would be really helpful.

        For the potluck, make something that you enjoy and make it fun — Surprise us. Feel free to use Facebook to coordinate with others or share photos. Try to limit foods high in processed sugars unless you're planning to make one yourself.

        We’ll have an ice chest available for the group, and a pop-up tent. If you can lend a hand Sunday and help me pack these up and load them into the Subaru Outback, that would be much appreciated!

        Main hike - Mount Laguna Lakes

        Our main hike will be the Mount Laguna Lakes, located within walking distance of the campground, and passes through the El Prado campsite. This will be an out and back 2.5mi hike. Along the way, you’ll see lakes, some ducks, and other local wildlife. Feel free to take photos and share them and your experience on the greatoutdoors facebook page. There is cell service in this area. This link contains Photos of a previous hike

        Camp leader - Jeremiah O’Neal

        Please feel free to reach out to me. I will have my cell on me throughout the weekend and you’re more than welcome to text me (619)788-9407. Also, feel free to email me at [email protected] or reach out to me on Facebook Messenger if you have any questions or concerns.

        Supplies (What to bring)

        This will be a checklist. Please feel free to print this up and check through it. Not everything will be

        listed, however, some important items will.

        ● Tent

        ● Sleeping bag

        ● Warm long-sleeve/pants clothes

        ● Cool clothing

        ● Camp chair

        ● A mug - If coffee is provided. I’ll let you know

        ● Plates (Unless someone can provide plates)

        ● Hiking shoes

        ● Suntan lotion

        ● A water bottle

        ● A USB battery pack and your phone for photos, etc.

        ● Matches (if you plan to cook anything)

        Weekend Schedule

        Thursday, July 9

        2:00 PM Arrival - Tent setup. Keep paths to restrooms, water, and the bonfire open and place tents left of the road. Anywhere on that side of the road will work.

        6:00 PM Evening Meet & Greet

        7:00 PM Evening Group Dinner and Bonfire

        Friday, July 10

        8:00AM- Coffee/Breakfast (on own) - I’ll see if a coffee pot is available

        8:30AM Hike: Big Laguna lake

        Anytime Lunch (on own)

        Around 6:45PM - Evening Potluck

        Along with potluck or after Storytelling/Bonfire/Other fun activities

        Saturday, July 11

        Morning Coffee/Breakfast - I’ll see if I can get a coffee pot going

        8AM - 24 bagels & cream cheese.

        Hike: 9AM - 5 mile loop hike (Registration link: https://greatoutdoors.org/event-6291609)

        Afternoon Lunch (bring your own food) At the campsite with hikers who are not camping.

        5:30PM Hike: Big Laguna lake

        Evening Group Dinner (bring own)

        Along with dinner, Storytelling/Bonfire

        Sunday, July 12

        Morning: Please, if you can help take down everything and put it in my car. It’s the Subaru Outback.

        11:00 AM Must Leave Camp

        Health Problems/Allergies: Discuss any medical concerns with the trip leader that may affect your ability to complete the event.

        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.

        Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

        Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.

        • Sun, July 12, 2026
        • 2:00 PM
        • Wed, July 15, 2026
        • 12:00 AM
        • Idyllwild CA
        • 45

        Idyllwild Summer Getaway

        Experience the cool, star‑filled mountain nights beneath a canopy of conifers at Idyllwild Regional Park. This mid‑week summer escape offers a peaceful, uncrowded campground surrounded by towering pines, granite outcrops, and lush mountain vegetation.

        Enjoy three nights of camping, hiking, and exploring the charming village of Idyllwild—home to unique shops, local art, and inviting restaurants. Whether you’re relaxing under the trees, hitting the trails, or wandering through town, this trip blends mountain serenity with easy access to amenities.

        Sunday, July 12

        • 2:00 pm - Check-in
        • 4:00 Sunset hike to meadow  
        • 6:00 pm - Meet and greet, bring something to share and your favorite beverage.
        • 7:00 pm - Group campfire activities 

        Monday, July 13

        • 7:00 am - Coffee, continental breakfast
        • 9:00 am - Hike to Nature Center *
        • 2:00 pm - Hike *
        • 6:30 pm - Potluck dinner-bring a dish to share
        • 7:00 pm - Group campfire activities 

        Tuesday, July 14

        • 7:00 am - Coffee, continental breakfast
        • 9:00 am - 4 wheel drive road trip
        • 1:30 pm - Hike* or see Idyllwild 
        • 6:30 pm - Optional group dinner in town*
        • 7:30 pm - Group  campfire activities

        Wednesday, July 13

        •  12:00 pm - Check out

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

        Amenities: Restrooms have flush toilets and hot showers that take quarters.  Campsites have picnic tables, fire rings (although wood fires may not be allowed due to fire restrictions), and drinking water. The town of Idyllwild is 1/2 mile away with shops and restaurants.

        Amenities For Tents:  The sites are fairly flat and with intermittent shade.  Tents and RV's will be in same area and may share site. Restroom and showers are located uphill of the campsites.

        Amenities For RVs:  There are no services for RVs.  Fill your water tank prior to arrival.  This is dry camping.  Generators may be operated between 7 am and 10 pm.

        What to Bring: Ten Essentials, camp chair, nametag, daypack for hiking, camping/cooking gear, food, warm/cool/wet weather clothing, quarters for showers.  Bring a dish to share at the potluck dinner.  There are water spigots located in the camp.  

        Consider going green! - Please bring your own reusable plates, cups, mugs, eating utensils, etc. 

        Directions:  54000 County Playground Road, Idyllwild, CA 92549. Map - Click Here.

        Climate:   Ave High 80  Ave Low 47       Weather forecast click here

        Sunrise 5:47 AM - Sunset 7:58 PM

        4x4 Trails Near Idyllwild

        • Bee Canyon Truck Trail (5S07): A popular route between Hemet and Mountain Center, featuring beautiful scenery, tight spots, and occasional mud.
        • Black Mountain Truck Trail (5S01): Leads to Fuller Ridge, offering scenic views and a mix of, sometimes, challenging terrain.
        • Idyllwild Control Road (5S06): A 6-mile, moderate trail connecting Highway 74 to Pine Cove.
        • San Jacinto Ridge Road (5S09): A 30-mile, moderate route connecting with Bee Canyon and Red Hill Road.
        • Thomas Mountain Road (6S13/6S18): Features stunning views of Lake Hemet and connects to Rouse Ridge.

        Pets: Pets are welcomed. $2 per day pet fee payable upon arrival may apply. Must be kept on leash.  Please pick up after your pet. 

        Photos:  Click Here

        Payment:  Online only with credit card.

        Refunds: Cancellation must be received by July 1 to qualify for a refund, minus a $10 administrative fee. To cancel your registration, please contact the trip leader directly.

        Contact: Trip Co-Leaders:  John N. and Scott C.

         

        Health Problems/allergies  Discuss any medical concerns with the event leader that may affect your ability to participate in this event. 


        • Wed, July 15, 2026
        • 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
        • 83775 Citrus Ave, Indio
        Register

        The Find Food Bank is one of many regional food banks across the US that acts as a hub, sourcing food from a variety of places across the US and from people, processing it safely in our warehouse, and distributing it equitably to the hundreds of food pantries, nonprofit organizations, soup kitchens, homeless shelters, and Mobile Markets that serve individual communities across the desert region.

        Come join us at the Findl Food Bank in Indio and help prepare food boxes for distribution to families in need through out the valley.  We will work a 3 hour shift (8-11 am) and then after go to  lunch at TKB Bakery & Deli Website click here

        7:15 AM Meet at Palm Springs PetsMart, Ramon/Crossley   Map click here

        or 8:00 AM at the Food Bank 83775 Citrus Ave, Indio, CA 92201 MAP

        Wear comfortable closed toe, sturdy footwear.

        Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share. Carpool transportation is at the sole risk of the participants.  Arrive a few minutes early for briefing and carpooling.

        Contact hike leader:  H.L. Todd: EMAIL

        Cancel: If you cannot make this event, please cancel as others may be on the waitlist. You may cancel directly from your profile settings or notify the event leader.

        © 1981 - 2026 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy


        • Mon, July 20, 2026
        • 12:00 PM
        • Thu, July 23, 2026
        • 12:00 PM
        • Zion National Park

        This event is being planned by Orange County Long Beach Chapter.  Check back For more information about this trip.


        • Fri, July 24, 2026
        • 7:30 PM - 10:30 PM
        • Hollywood Bowl, 2301 N Highland Ave, 90068, CA
        • 16

        Registration opens April 1

        Smokey Robinson & Gladys Knight: Just the Two of Us

        Details:

        "Two legendary singers offer up some of the biggest songs in history...With eight Grammy wins and 28 nominations between them, Gladys Knight and Smokey Robinson are undisputed icons of American soul music."

        6:30 pm: Join Joe Holliday and others for a pre-performance picnic at Picnic Area 7. This is the uppermost picnic area, where we will save tables with a view of LA. It's the last one, beyond the last (3rd) escalator, then turn right into it. If you are joining us for the picnic, bring your food and drink (wine bottles are allowed. This is not a "Lease Event", so you may bring your own wine bottles etc. into the seating area.

        7:30ish pm: Walk to our seats. Have your electronic ticket ready.

        8:00 pm: Show begins

        FAQs | Hollywood Bowl

        Transportation options: There are many options to get to the Bowl including driving, shuttles, carpooling and others. As Great Outdoors members we strive to do our part to reduce traffic and parking congestion and help protect the environment. Please see the following:

        Tickets: $53/ticket which includes a rented seat cushion. Registration is for up to 13 GO members and guests with a max of 2 tickets per person.  Your ticket will be paid for by registering and paying via the Registration link.  Tickets are with Joe Holliday and 11 others in Section K2 which are the closest bleacher seats to the stage. No refunds after June 15, 2026. Add yourself to the wait list if this sells out. 

        1. I will email or text your tickets to you no later than July 1, 2026. Note: If you determine that you cannot attend after receiving your tickets electronically, you will be responsible for dispositioning of your tickets yourself, i.e. donating it back to GOLA, transferring it to someone else, other.

        2. You may present your tickets on your mobile device by logging into a Hollywood Bowl account the day of the performance and showing your tickets directly from your browser.

        3. Access and manage your upcoming events by downloading the Hollywood Bowl app.

        There are step by step guides on both of these options available at www.hollywoodbowl.com/digital-tickets.

        Trip Leaders: John Butta and Joe Holliday

        Questions: contact John at 213-200-7843 or [email protected]

        Health issues/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 tour leader if you wish.

        • Sat, August 01, 2026
        • 9:45 AM - 2:00 PM
        • ONE Archives at University of Southern California Libraries, 909 W Adams Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90007
        • 34
        Register

        USC ONE Archives Visit

        Saturday Aug 1, 2026 at 10am sharp

        World's largest LGBTQIA+ archive reopens - Daily Trojan

        Join us to learn about the history of Great Outdoors from when we began in 1978 to today, including our founders and historical chapters across California and beyond! 


        Day of Schedule: 

        10:00am USC One Archive Visit

        12:00pm Lunch (on own or as group)

        11:30am Urban Walk through USC Campus (1.1 miles, ~30min)

        12:15pm Enter Exhibition as Group, brief Exhibition Discussion (pending Archive confirmation)

        12:30pm Explore PST ART: Art and Science Collide Exhibition


        Potential Urban Walk Information: This hike from the ONE Archive at USC to the USC Fisher Museum of Art is 1.1 miles through the campus. This urban walk is expected to take 30mins at a generous pace. Confirmation closer to date to come.


        Parking: USC's ONE Archive has a free private parking lot, so anyone coming directly to the archive will be fine. If you plan to park at the archive, and walk to and back from the exhibition on campus, there shouldn't be a problem with parking. If anyone is planning to park near the exhibition on campus following the archive visit, however, that would likely be rather difficult and expensive.

        Note: There is a football game at the LA Coliseum and it's Trojan Family Weekend, so the area/campus will likely be busy. 

        Cost: Free for Archive visit and potentially per person cost for art exhibit

        Time Commitment: Plan for approx 3-4 hours 

        Dogs: No animals allowed.

        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 a trip leader if you wish.

        Contact/Question:- If you have any questions not addressed by the information above or on our registration page, please feel free to contact the trip leader: Tyler Roosden (651.497.1611)
        • Sat, August 08, 2026
        • 8:00 AM
        • Sun, August 09, 2026
        • 3:00 PM
        • Ramona Town Hall 729 Main Street Ramona, CA 92065
        Register

        Hunter Education Certification Course

        Sat Aug 8th to Sun 9th, 2026 @ Ramona Town Hall 

        Hunter-Trapper Education | Game Commission | Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

        This California Hunter Education Course is taught by volunteer instructors certified by the California Department of Fish and Game (DFG). The class takes place over two days, Saturday and Sunday. This hunter education course consists of a minimum of ten hours of classroom instruction. In addition to attending class, students are required to complete the chapter review exercises for the chapters covered on the first day and study at home.

        You Must Sign Up Online Here to Confirm Registration.

        Pre-Work: 

        It is recommended that students go through an online Study Guide found at: https://www.hunter-ed.com/california/studyGuide/201005/. Students who view the study guide prior to the class will be familiar with the material and have been known to do much better on the exam.

        HOMEWORK REQUIRED TO GET INTO THE CLASS – Print out the Hunter Education Vocabulary Pre-Class homework assignment and bring it to the classroom on the first day of class

        Costs involved: The class is free to all. Participants should bring snacks & drinks to class. Students should also bring paper and pen/pencil to class to take notes. I will have pencils and highlighters in class. We will break for lunch for 30 minutes and food options can be close by in Ramona.

        Students who successfully complete the course of instruction are awarded a Certificate of Completion. This certificate must be presented when applying for a hunting license.

        The Hunter Education Instructor makes the final decision in determining whether a student is qualified to receive a Certificate of Completion. A student who is unsafe or fails to demonstrate good sportsmanship will not be issued a Certificate of Completion. A student who does not pass the 100-question examination cannot be tested again on the same day.

        Who to Contact with Questions: Tyler Roosden [email protected] 


        Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

        Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.

        • Tue, August 11, 2026
        • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
        • Off the Shelf Games: 173 Fletcher Pkwy, El Cajon, CA 92020
        Register

        Game Night in El Cajon!

        Join us for games and fun!

        Parking Information: Parking lot

        Costs involved: $8/person

        Pets Permitted: No

        Who to Contact with Questions: Tyler Roosden, 651.497.1611


        Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

        Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.

        • Thu, August 13, 2026
        • 1:00 PM
        • Sun, August 16, 2026
        • 2:00 PM
        • San Bernardino National Forest
        • 100




        THIS IS A SAMPLE DESCRIPTION. DUPLICATE THIS EVENT AND THEN EDIT ONLY THE COPY AND DON'T FORGET TO REPLACE THE ABOVE PHOTO AND TEXT BELOW. JUST DELETE ALL THIS TEXT IN RED. 

        Note:  Registration for this event will initially be limited to paid members of Great Outdoors. Paid members get "first crack" at our events. If you'd like to become a member to register for this campout - click here - and then return to this page.

        The Salton Sea is one of the most enigmatic places in the Southwest. It is a unique place with many hidden treasures and secrets that are not well known. It has been forgotten as a busy tourist attraction of bygone years. .....

        Prices: (Example 1) We have different pricing levels based upon you staying in a tent or RV in one of our sites, staying in a site you booked yourself (or in a nearby hotel/motel/friend's house).  Each person going must complete a separate registration.  We do this so each registrant acknowledges our liability waiver condition.

        Select your registration that conforms to the following definitions:

        • RV is a vehicle designed as temporary living quarters for recreational, camping, travel or season use. RVs may be motorized (motorhomes) or towable (travel trailers, folding camping trailers and truck campers).
        • Tent: a collapsible shelter of fabric stretched and sustained by poles and used for camping.

        Prices:  (example 2) There is no charge for this event.  Each person going must complete a separate registration.  We do this so each registrant acknowledges our liability waiver condition.

        Prices are based upon each person going being a GO Chapter paid member. You can join - click here - and then register for this campout. Other GO Chapter members should contact our GOPS Webmaster (click here to email) in order to be added as a member of our Chapter for free. Each person going must complete a separate registration. We do this so each registrant acknowledges our liability waiver condition.

        Prices: Prices are based upon you being a GO paid member. If not currently a GO member, you will have the option of joining at an additional $25 per person for a one (1) year club membership prior to registration. Each person going must complete a separate registration. You can click here to join.  

        RV's and tents may share sites - maximum of one RV and one tent on each site. When reserving an RV site, please select the smallest RV site which will accommodate your RV's length. RV sites come with water, electricity, picnic table and a fire ring. A dump station is located within the park. Some sites may not be completely level - we suggest bringing leveling blocks. Depending upon the RV site, tow vehicles may have to park in a nearby site. These are sites with mature vegetation surrounding the sites.

        We will have a propane fire-pit for the group as open fires may be restricted in the camp to a designated area only.

        Schedule Of Events

        Friday, Mar 17

        • Noon - Check-in at Mecca Beach Campground
        • 4:00 pm - Sunset hike nearby location*
        • 6:00 pm - Tea Time meet and greet BYOB. Dinner on your own
        • 7:00 pm - Group campfire activities & may include PowerPoint or movie about Salton Sea area

        Saturday, Mar 18

        • 9:30 am - Kayaking along the shore**
        • 2:00 pm - Hike slot canyon Mecca Hills Wilderness or other hike posted on camp board*
        • 6:00 pm - Potluck (bring a dish to share).  GO will provide desserts.
        • 7:00 pm - Group Campfire

        Sunday, Mar 19

        • 9:30 am - Hike*
        • 11:00 am - Clean up campground areas. Check Out. Safe travels home.

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

        **Optional $15 fee for kayaking rental (a donation to: The Sea and Desert Interpretive Association).  This fee will be collected when you register for this event.

        Possible Activities  Miles  Elevation  Misc Notes
        Shopping in nearby Julian  33   Think Everything Apples!
        Moonlight Canyon hike  1.8  350  
        Mountain Palm Oasis hike  3  600  
        Torote Canyon loop hike 6.5  1,500'  
        Cold Canyon hike  3.0  650'  

        Amenities:  Restrooms have electricity, flush toilets, running water and hot showers that take quarters, picnic tables, fire rings, water and paved parking stalls. There is a dump station and water near the campground. There is a small store on 111 with limited supplies. Limited electric hookup may be available.

        Amenities For RVs:  This is a dry camping event. There are no hookups at each camp site. Fresh water is available at the dump site to fill your RV tank before arriving at your site. There is a dump site located near the park entrance.  QUIET HOURS are from 10 pm to 6 am and generators may only be operated between 10 am and 8 pm.

        What to BringTen Essentialscamping/cooking gear, food, warm/cool weather clothing, shorts for kayaking, potluck item for Saturday night, two bundles of firewood - no particle board, old furniture, plywood or construction materials. These cause the release of toxic gases when burned. Firewood is for sale at the campground. 

        Don't forget your towel, swim suit and water shoes.

        We recommend you read our suggested 10 essential items to bring - click here. 

        GO 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: (sample 1)  I-10 east to Indio, take 86-S exit then turn left at Avenue 66, then right onto Highway 111.  Go south about 13 miles to the Mecca Beach campground. For a Google Map of our location - click here.  <<< fix link

        Getting There: (sample 2)

        • Address:  39555 Great Southern Overland Stage Route of 1849, Julian, CA 92036
        • GPS Coordinates: 32°57'02.1"N 116°18'16.4"W or 32.950581, -116.304558
        • Google - Map Link: click here   <<< fix link 
        • Be sure to carpool if you can and fill your gas tank before heading to camp because the nearest gas is in Borrego Springs (30 miles) or Julian (33 miles).

        Climate & Elevation - The current forecast avg. is 67 high 42 low.  Check the weather forecast - click here.  The park is located at 1300’.  <<< fix link

        RefundsCancellation for a full refund minus service fee of $5.00 must be received by March 14, 2017.

        Payments: We are no longer using PayPal to accept trip registrations.  You may now use any of these credit cards:  MC, VISA, Discover or Amex. 

        Contact: Scott C. email: [email protected]

        Photos: To see some photos from prior trips to XYZ location  - click here.  <<< fix link

        Quiet Hours - 10 PM - 7 AM

        Smoking - is not allowed in San Diego County Parks.

        Cell Service - not in the park but may available nearby.  Details for specific carriers?

        PetsPets 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. Dogs are not allowed in cabins or on trails. Please bring doggie bags and clean up any of their waste.  Please be aware there are snakes and scorpions at this location.  

        Special COVID Related Requirements: This event requires all attendees to be fully vaccinated.

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

        © 1981 - 2022 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy


        • Wed, August 19, 2026
        • Sun, August 23, 2026
        • Duck Creek, UT
        • 24

        SAVE THE DATE. This trip is now scheduled from August 19-23, 2026

        Please stay tuned for updated trip details and information and be ready for when registration opens. Thanks!


        We have postponed this event until August 2026, stay tuned and reach out with your interest if you'd like to be involved! 

        Ready for an Escape? Let’s Head to Southern Utah!


        Tired of the daily grind? Then it’s time to trade traffic for towering trees and spreadsheets for starry skies! Join your Great Outdoors friends on a five-day, four-night camping adventure in the breathtaking landscapes of Southern Utah! 

        We’ll be setting up camp at Duck Creek Campground, a peaceful hideaway nestled in the Dixie National Forest near Cedar City—just 450 miles east of LA. You’ll be surrounded by groves of aspen and Douglas fir, with ancient ponderosa pines (some over 500 years old!) standing tall all around you. 

        There are hiking trails right from camp,Duck Creek Pond and Navajo lake nearby if you feel like casting a line, renting a boat or just kicking back. One day, we’ll hit the trails at Cedar Breaks National Monument—a jaw-dropping natural amphitheater—on a scenic hike along the South Rim Trail (note: there’s a $15–$25 fee per vehicle to enter). We’ll also explore the Mammoth Lava Caves, a wild formation from Utah’s volcanic past. 

        And if that’s not enough? Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks are just about an hour away. If you forget something or need supplies, Duck Creek Village is just down the road with shops, firewood, and a few local eats. 

        So….Let’s get outside, breathe in that mountain air, and make some memories! 

        Details: 

        We have reserved campsites 31,33,34(Loop A) 

        We are allowed one vehicle per site, however there is overflow parking which is about ¼ mile away at the visitor’s center.We may be able to park a few more vehicles at the campsite but that will be figured out when you get thereThere is a fee for overflow vehicles in camp which the driver will be reimbursed. 

        Sorry because of the limited space,this is tent camping only. 

        There are no showers so bring your solar shower, however, Pine Wood resorts,which is in Duck Creek Village,offer showers if availability permits, $10/person. 

        Campground amenities include flush toilets, fire rings, picnic tables and potable water. 

        Make sure to bring firewood and buy it locally as they are discouraging firewood brought in from outside the area due to exotic pest infestation. 

        For more info about duck Creek Campground go to:  

        Duck Creek, Dixie National Forest - Recreation.gov 

         

        Registration:$ per person, 5 days and 4 nights. 

        Registration by credit card only 

        Each camp site is allowed one vehicle per site, (we probably can squeeze a few more in) but overflow parking is available at the visitor’s center, and carpooling is highly encouraged to limit the number of vehicles.  Let the trip leader know if you have room to share in your vehicle. 

        Itinerary: 

        Wednesday Aug. 19th: Arrival AFTER 2pm. Meet and Greet tea and other yummies! Feel free to share your favorite finger food and/or beverage if you so desire, GO will be providing drinks and snacks as well.  BYOB. Dinner on your own. Campfire gathering 

        Thursday Aug. 20th: Breakfast on your own. Explore local trails around the area, TBD at the site. Lunch on your own, more exploring, Potluck dinner Prepare your favorite dish for 4 to 6 people Campfire gathering 

        Friday Aug 21th:Breakfast on your own then drive to Cedar Breaks National Monument (carpooling to be figured out) Pack a lunch. Taking the5-mile South Rim trail which offers spectacular views, a moderately strenuous hike but well worth it!Have plenty of water, comfortable hiking shoes and sunscreen! Dinner at a nearby restaurant. (Paesano’s Pizzeria or Aunt Sues Chalet) Return for our Campfire gathering. 

        Saturday Aug 22th:Breakfast on your own, visit Navajo Lake, maybe rent a boat or walk around the lake, more exploring TBD. Have lunch in Duck Creek Village. Dinner on your own, relax, take in the beauty, campfire gathering. 

        Sunday Aug 23th: Our last day Breakfast on your own, pack up and head out and prepare for your next GO adventure! 

        Note: This itinerary is subject to change as weather, moods and circumstances permit! 

        Refund Policy: Cancel on or before August 4th you will receive a refund minus a $15 processing fee.Sorry but no refunds will be issued after that date. 

        Contact the trip leader if you need to cancel. 

        This event is limited to GO members only When you register, you’ll need to have your credit card ready and pay your registration fee within 15 minutes If you’re not a member, you can first join as a member online and then return to register for the event.  We’d love to have you join!! 

        Dogs are allowed if they are on a leash. 

        Weather this time of year is usually pleasantly warm and breezy (low 80’s high 70’s) Very slight chance of rain but it has been known that an occasional thunderstorm can pass through now and again, so be prepared! 

        Bring your 10 essentials, camping and cooking gear, food and a bundle or two or three of firewood. (We can always go down the road to buy more) 

        Sunscreen and a wide brimmed hat and comfortable hiking shoes highly recommended! 

        Additional e-mails will be sent out with more details, changes and other pertinent info as the date of the trip nears. 


        Your Trip Leader, Brian Miller: Duck Creek, UT (circa 1963)
        [email protected]
         

         

         


        • Wed, August 19, 2026
        • 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
        • 83775 Citrus Ave, Indio
        Register

        The Find Food Bank is one of many regional food banks across the US that acts as a hub, sourcing food from a variety of places across the US and from people, processing it safely in our warehouse, and distributing it equitably to the hundreds of food pantries, nonprofit organizations, soup kitchens, homeless shelters, and Mobile Markets that serve individual communities across the desert region.

        Come join us at the Findl Food Bank in Indio and help prepare food boxes for distribution to families in need through out the valley.  We will work a 3 hour shift (8-11 am) and then after go to  lunch at TKB Bakery & Deli Website click here

        7:15 AM Meet at Palm Springs PetsMart, Ramon/Crossley   Map click here

        or 8:00 AM at the Food Bank 83775 Citrus Ave, Indio, CA 92201 MAP

        Wear comfortable closed toe, sturdy footwear.

        Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share. Carpool transportation is at the sole risk of the participants.  Arrive a few minutes early for briefing and carpooling.

        Contact hike leader:  H.L. Todd: EMAIL

        Cancel: If you cannot make this event, please cancel as others may be on the waitlist. You may cancel directly from your profile settings or notify the event leader.

        © 1981 - 2026 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy


        • Sat, September 12, 2026
        • 5986 Sandspit Road, Goleta, CA 93117

        Flying Club / Primetimers BBQ

        Fire up the grill, let's make some noise,
        Burgers, dogs, and happy joys!
        Good food, good friends, a perfect day,
        Come hang with us, don't delay! 


        WHEN: Sept 12, 2026 @ TBD

        WHERE: Goleta Beach Park

        *Registration is not open at this time. More info to follow...*



        • Sat, September 19, 2026
        • 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
        • 2920 Zoo Dr., San Diego, CA 9210
        Register

        SAN DIEGO ZOO HIKE/SOCIAL

        Join us at the zoo!. This year we will be hiking through the famous San Diego Zoo on Sat Sept 19th @ 10:00am. We will hike through the park to the far end and take a different path back to the entrance. Tickets/membership should be purchased prior to the event. If this is an event you would like to participate in but cannot access it due to finances, please reach out to KJ Archer at [email protected]

        San Diego Zoo 1-Day Pass Ticket, No Reservations Required! 2022

        Details: We will hike through the park to the far end and take a different path back to the entrance

        Host: KJ Archer (619-214-6353)

        RSVP: Please RSVP so I know how many to expect. If we have a large group, please mask/social distance, as needed.

        Meeting Location: 2920 Zoo Dr., San Diego, CA

        92101 https://maps.app.goo.gl/brG2rRmm333248LC9

        Meeting Date & Time: Sat Sept 19th @ 10:00am inside the front entrance at the map stand - We will plan to leave from the inside of the park entrance at 10:15am.

        Parking: Ample parking available.

        Cost: Self purchased membership/tickets required for entry

        Time Commitment: Plan for approx. 4-6 hours, group dependent  


        Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

        Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.

        • Sun, September 20, 2026
        • 5:00 PM
        • Sat, September 26, 2026
        • 3:00 PM
        • Boundary Waters Canoe Area (MN), Entry Point #62 Clearwater Lake
        • 0
        Join waitlist

        Boundary Waters Canoe Area:

        The Crown Jewel of Minnesota

        Sunday Sept 20 - Saturday Sept 26, 2026


        Trip Description: Join us for this once in a lifetime opportunity to visit the crown jewel of Minnesota nature, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. Located in northern Minnesota on the Canadian border, this area is famous for its pristine lakes, singing loons and great fishing. This trip will be a backpacking canoe trip, meaning every participant will work in community with others on the trip to share responsibilities like cooking, building fires, switching off paddling, and securing food supplies overnight. Trips to the BWCA are considered a right of passage in Minnesota culture, and I am excited to share this experience with you! 

        Note: Flights to/from MSP Airport are not included. Our backpacking trip will start at the bunkhouse the day (9/20) before our permit start date of Sept 21st (Mon) until the end of our permit on Sept 26th. Plan an extra day on both ends for air travel to/from MSP Airport and the drive from the BWCA to/from MSP Airport.

        Map Website:

        Route Overview: Starting on Clearwater Lake (Entry Point #62) we will travel northeast by canoe to Mountain Lake where we will begin our paddle loop through the wilderness! Red line indicates our ~30 mile route. We will have two base camp days at Campsites #2/3 and #4/5 of the trip, averaging 7-8mi/day traveling. 

        Distance: ~30miles

        Route Type: Loop


        Schedule:

        Sunday, Sept 20th

        Arrive to MSP, drive to Outfitters (5-6 hours). Overnight stay at Clearwater Outfitters bunkhouse Entry Point #62. Equipment check.

        Monday, Sept 21st

        Depart from entry location, Point #62 Clearwater Lake and paddle northeast to Mountain Lake, navigating one portage (80 rods) and camp on Mountain Lake. Note: Pending Outfitter confirmation, route may be done in reverse.

        Tuesday, Sept 22nd

        Wake up and begin with 3 portages (65, 40, 140 rods) down Pigeon River. Paddle across Moose Lake, portage Pigeon River (125 rods), through North Fowl Lake, through 3 Royal River portages (100, 20, 60), paddle south throuth Little John Lake, paddle across McFarland Lake, and portage 10 rods to Pine Lake to camp for night. 

        Wednesday, Sept 23rd

        Base camp day. Enjoy camp and adventures in Pine Lake to Johnson Falls, hike portages to adjacent lake, or fishing!

        Thursday, Sept 24th

        Canoe west across Pine Lake and portage 75 rods into Little Caribou Lake. Portage 25 rods into Caribou Lake to camp for night.

        Friday, Sept 25th

        Base camp day. Enjoy camp and adventures in Caribou Lake!

        Saturday, Sept 26th

        Canoe out of BWCA through 105 rod portage to Clearwater Lake to exit #62. Return supplies to Outfitters. Return to MSP for flights home


        Cost: See per person registration type. This includes canoe rentals, permits, and Bunk House accommodations the night before, if available. Flights not included. Food and Travel (car rental/ride) coordination is recommended with the Trip Leader.

        Cancellation/Refund: Refunds are available until Aug 1st, 2026. Unless an alternate attendee is confirmed, a refund will not be provided after 8/1/2026.

        Travel: Coordination with the Trip Leader is encouraged. Flights are not included, but an early arrival Tuesday is recommended for the drive up to BWCA. You are responsible for your travel to the Outfitters, but Trip Leader assistance is available. Direct flights from San Diego to MSP are available through Sun Country and Delta Airlines. It is a 5-6 hour drive from the airport to the BWCA, so early arrival is critical.

        Experience: This trip does not require previous canoe/portage experience, and is considered an intermediate route due to the number of portages and base camp day(s) included in the schedule. If you have never portaged or paddled, please let the Trip Leader know and they will be more than happy to explain skill requirements. We will be teaching these skills day 1 and on as well! 

        Weather: This is the end of the mosquito season, meaning mosquitos will be waning but this is always location dependent in the BWCA. This late in the season none are expected at this time. September in the BWCA at Clearwater Lake offers a mix of stable, warm early-month days and cool, unpredictable late-month conditions, with temperatures generally ranging from 40–60°F (4–16°C). Early September has fewer bugs and warm water, while late September brings fall colors and cooler nights.

        Bring: 10 Essentials (no kidding, every person needs a personal first aid kit); water filtration; food for each meal plus extra snacks; water bottle and filter system; sleeping bag and pad; tent; appropriate footwear (land and water); layered clothing; jacket; rain gear; wide hat; compass; toilet paper & trowel; jet boil/compact camping stove; fire starter; headlamp; sunglasses; sunscreen; insect repellant; camera and entertainment (book, card game, etc). 

        Note: Some communal equipment will be utilized, like jet boils/stove and Duluth packs to reduce duplicative equipment being carried.

        Other Considerations: As with any backcountry experience, this one is "Leave no Trace" - our trash comes out with us. Active bear area - mandatory use of either bear cannisters or hanging food sacks.

        Trip Leader: Tyler Roosden (651.497.1611) or at [email protected]


        • Thu, September 24, 2026
        • 4:00 PM
        • Sun, September 27, 2026
        • 12:00 PM
        • 6800 Lopez Drive, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420

        Lake Lopez - Arroyo Grande Harvest Festival

        The Arroyo Grande Harvest Festival is a local favorite event that features everything from entertainment to food, scarecrow and baking contests, games for the kids, movie night, and so much more! This family-friendly event highlights the best of Arroyo Grande and its neighboring communities.  


        When: Sept 24 - 27, 2026 @ TBD

        *Registration is not open yet at this time. More info to follow...*

        • Fri, October 16, 2026
        • Sun, October 18, 2026
        • TBA

        *** SAVE THE DATE ***

        Hello GO!

        Please make sure that you mark your calendars for the
        48th All Chapter Conference and Campout
        Hosted by GO-SBVC

        Dates
        Friday, October 16 thru Sunday, October 18, 2026
        Location
        TBA


        • Tue, October 20, 2026
        • 12:00 PM
        • Online Sales
        Register

        Great Outdoors San Diego T-Shirt Sales

        Please select from the 4 options below for you San Diego Pride T-Shirt. These will have the year that the design was featured, and in the same color from their associated year (2021-2025). Price is $30 with shipping included with your order! The above Great Outdoors Pride logo is featured on the front of the shirts, with the year specific design on the back.

        2022 Design (Aqua Blue Color Shirt):


        2023 Design (Mauve Color Shirt):


        2024 Design (Olive Green Color Shirt):

        2025 Design (Peri Blue Color Shirt):

        2025 Conference Historic Designs:

        Shipping Information: We will be as expeditious as possible in our shipping! If you haven't gotten word of your shipping timeline 2 weeks after your order, please follow up with Tyler Roosden at [email protected]

        Costs: $30/Shirt with shipping included. For bulk orders, please inquire for pricing.

        Who to Contact with Questions: Tyler Roosden at [email protected]


        Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

        Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.

        • Sun, October 25, 2026
        • Mon, November 02, 2026
        • Copper Canyon, Mexico
        Register

        IMPORTANT:  The registration link ABOVE is an indication of interest only.  It is not a commitment to travel, or a reservation. For instructions on how to register for this event, see below.


        Mexico’s Copper Canyon by Train

        8 Nights - 9 Days

        October 25th through November 2, 2026

        (Not including pre-night in Los Mochis)

        BATOPILAS & BEYOND

        $2750 per person, double occupancy (First Class)

        (Not including air transport)

        THE TRAIN

        The Copper Canyon train in Mexico, known as El Chepe (Chihuahua al Pacífico Railway), is a spectacular engineering marvel and scenic journey through Mexico's Sierra Madre, connecting the desert to the Pacific by traversing massive canyons (larger than the Grand Canyon) with breathtaking views, tunnels, and bridges.  The train journey is considered to be one of the greatest train journeys in the world, and the finest in North America.  Built over decades, the line features 39 bridges and 86 tunnels, climbing from near sea level to over  8,000 feet.  The trip from El Fuerte to Creel is about 7 hours.  Expect dramatic drops, deep gorges, and diverse landscapes.  The train trip will start in El Fuerte reaching Creel in the early evening.  For a 3 minute PBS video of the Copper Canyon Railway click here.

        There are two classes of service available.  The First Class service has more comfortable seats and panoramic windows to ensure you don’t miss a moment of the majestic scenery of the Sierra Tarahumara.

        Your ticket includes:

        • Preferred access to the Urike restaurant (domed dining car)
        • Exclusive access to the bar – terrace (with lounge areas and stools)
        • 96 reclining ergonomic seats with central tables
        • Snack and beverage service
        • Bar with a panoramic view
        • On-board service
        • HD screens
        • Premium audio system
        • Luxury restrooms
        • Panoramic windows
        • Tourist Class, roundtrip, tickets are also available, see pricing details in brochure.

        HOTELS -- Group accommodations include 4 hotels.  

        Posada Hidalgo in El Fuerte is a historic 5 star hotel.  


        The Best Western Creel is the best hotel in Creel with a convenient central location.

        The Riverside Lodge is a historic property in the center of Batopilas.



        Copper Canyon El Mirador Hotel on the edge of the canyon




        The BEST train journey in North America.

        The BEST seats on the train trip.

        The BEST time of the year.

        The BEST available accommodations.

        Per the GOPS group foreign travel bylaws/guidelines, you will be making the actual reservation through COPPER CANYON ADVENTURES.  Copper Canyon Adventures is a Travel Service Provider (TSP), but is not a registered seller of travel (SOT) with the state of California (see GO International Travel Policies here).  The purchase of travel insurance is strongly recommended.  

        Event Coordinator: Todd click here

        Group Tour Meeting:  There will be a group tour meeting about 30 days before departure to discuss the upcoming trip and other important information before the trip.  

        IMPORTANT INFORMATION Regarding GO's Liability

        By signing the GO Liability Terms and Conditions you are agreeing to the limitations set forth below.  

        GO’s Role and Liability – Disclaimer

          • GO’s role is strictly limited to providing informational trip notes to its members.
          • GO does not enter into contracts for international or domestic travel.
          • GO assumes no legal or financial liability for any issues arising from the use of a Travel Service Provider (TSP), including financial losses, injuries, or disputes.
          • GO does not share member information with third-party entities.
          • The GO website serves to provide trip details, gauge interest, and require participants to acknowledge and accept the GO Liability Terms and Conditions.

        Travel Service Providers (TSPs) – Disclaimer

        • GO does not endorse, evaluate, or verify the qualifications, safety, or reliability of any TSP. GO does not guarantee the safety or quality of services provided by TSPs. Participants are responsible for conducting their own due diligence before booking.
        • Participants assume full responsibility for all travel-related risks, including but not limited to transportation and accommodations.
        • Participants acknowledge that they are entering into a direct contractual relationship with the TSP, and any disputes or concerns must be addressed directly with the provider.
        • GO strongly recommends member purchase travel insurance in the event of an unforeseen circumstance.

        ****************************

        If interested in BOOKING for this travel excursion, please follow these important steps.  

        1. Click the "Registration" button above (clicking the Registration button will not reserve a booking for you on the trip).  
        2. An email will be sent to you with a link that will direct you to important trip booking information.  Please read and familiarize yourself with the information in the 4 pdfs posted.
        3. At the end of the Batopilas & Beyond brochure are instructions on how to BOOK the trip.
        4. Booking confirmation is not final until payment to COPPER CANYON ADVENTURES.
        • Tue, November 10, 2026
        • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
        • Off the Shelf Games: 173 Fletcher Pkwy, El Cajon, CA 92020
        Register

        Game Night in El Cajon!

        Join us for games and fun!

        Parking Information: Parking lot

        Costs involved: $8/person

        Pets Permitted: No

        Who to Contact with Questions: Tyler Roosden, 651.497.1611


        Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

        Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.

        • Thu, November 12, 2026
        • 12:00 PM
        • Mon, November 16, 2026
        • 11:00 AM
        • Death Valley Stovepipe Wells
        Registration is closed


        Death Valley 2026 4X4 RV Trip Details

        Reserve Now!!!

        If you are planning to join us for our upcoming trip to Death Valley National Park, the scheduled dates are, Thursday, November 12 thru Monday, November 16, 2 2026.

        Everyone attending is responsible for making their own RV reservations at the Stovepipe Wells RV Campground. Please be aware that the campground has only 14 available sites, so it is important to reserve your RV site as soon as possible.

        How to Reserve Your RV Site

        • 1.      To reserve a rv site Click here
        • 2.      On the right side of the web page, select “RV Sites.”
        • 3.      Scroll down and click on “Book Now.”
        • 4.      Use the monthly calendar to navigate to November 2026.
        • 5.      Select dates from November 12 through November 16.
        • 6.      Continue scrolling until you see RV site options.
        • 7.      If only room rates are displayed and no RV sites appear, revisit the site later.
        • 8.      You may need to repeat this process several times during the month until an RV site becomes available.
        • 9.  Once your site has been reserved, please send an email to Cliff



             


        • Fri, November 13, 2026
        • 12:00 PM
        • Tue, November 24, 2026
        • 12:00 AM
        • Egypt
        • 0
        Join waitlist


        Great Outdoors OCLB

        presents

        Egypt! 

        Egypt! 

        Egypt!

        November 13 - November 24, 2026


        Calling All Enthusiastic Travel Lovers!

        Travel to Egypt with the Great Outdoors!

        Enjoy a fabulous tour of this ancient and modern country, from the bustling city of Cairo to the ancient sites of the Egyptian civilization, with 3 nights on a 5-star Nile River cruise sailing from Aswan to Luxor.

        A professional Egyptologist guide will explain all the history and significance of the sites, and Joe Holliday will be the group leader with an assist from Lance Whitmier.

        Space is limited to 24 people!

        This is a Member's Only event!

        Don’t miss this opportunity! 

        GREAT OUTDOORS EGYPT TOUR COST 

        $2890 per person - based on sharing a room

        REGISTRATION!

         GeoTours Registration Link

        will be sent on Feb 16 to those signed up for this trip!


        Included Entries/Activities

        • Pyramids & Sphinx of Giza
        • Grand Egyptian Museum, with King Tut’s treasures
        • Museum of Egyptian Civilization, with the royal mummies
        • Islamic Cairo – Citadel & Muhammad Ali Mosque
        • Coptic Cairo – Center of Egypt’s Christian minority
        • Flight from Cairo to Aswan
        • Abu Simbel, the amazing monument to Pharaoh Ramses II
        • Aswan - Nubian village dinner inside a home
        • Philae Temple Aswan High Dam
        • Felucca (traditional sailboat) ride on the Nile River
        • Nile Cruise from Aswan to Luxor, 3 nights with all meals
        • Kom Ombo & Edfu Luxor Temple, beautifully illuminated at night
        • Karnak Temple, home of the pharaohs 3000 years ago
        • Valley of the Kings, richly decorated royal tombs
        • Temple of Hatshepsut, built at the base of a cliff
        • Optional Hot air balloon ride in Luxor (additional charge required!)

        Itinerary

        Fri 11/13/26  Depart USA to Egypt Depart the USA for Cairo, Egypt (or on an earlier date for more time in Egypt).

        Sat 11/14/26  Arrive Cairo, Egypt Welcome to Egypt! Two nights in Cairo at Safir Hotel (5*) or similar.

        Sun 11/15/26 Cairo Spend a full day in Cairo to enjoy some of Egypt’s highlights. Marvel at the Pyramids and Sphinx, the most famous ancient site on the planet. For extra cost you can ride a camel or go inside the interior of one of the pyramids. In the afternoon visit the outstanding Grand Egyptian Museum (opened 2025), admiring the treasures from the tomb of King Tut. Night #2 in Cairo.

        Mon 11/16/26 Cairo and Flight to Aswan Explore Islamic Cairo: the Citadel, home to Egypt’s rulers for 700 years, with impressive Mohammed Ali Mosque. Visit Khan al-Khalili Bazaar, a medieval-era marketplace with shops selling everything. Visit the Museum of Egyptian Civilization, built in 2017, with Egyptian artifacts and the mummies of Ramses II, Queen Nefertari, and 20 other kings and queens. Night flight from Cairo to Aswan. Two nights in Aswan at Obelisk Hotel (4*) or similar.

        Tue 11/17/26 Aswan.  Visit the Temple of Philae in the morning, followed by the Aswan High Dam, one of the largest dams in the world. Possibly take an optional hike or camel ride up to the Tombs of the Nobles, with beautiful views over the Nile River. Take a short felucca ride (traditional Egyptian sailboat) on the Nile. Visit a Nubian village with dinner in a local home. Night #2 in Aswan

        Wed 11/18/26 Abu Simbel.  Visit Abu Simbel, perhaps the most impressive monument in Egypt. Board a Nile cruise boat (5*) for night #1 on the boat. All the cabins have Nile-view windows that can open, along with A-C. All meals are included on the cruise

        Thu 11/19/26 Nile Cruise.  Cruise down the Nile, enjoying the views of the river and the land. Stop in Kom Ombo to visit a beautifully located temple dedicated to the crocodile-god Sobek. Night #2 on the boat.

        Fri 11/20/26 Nile Cruise.  Continue cruising down the Nile. Stop in Edfu to visit the great temple of Horus, one of the largest temples in Egypt. Night #3 on the boat.

        Sat 11/21/26 Luxor.  Disembark the boat in Luxor and visit the wonderful Temple of Karnak, a huge complex of columns, temples, and gateways. Karnak was the ancient home of the pharaohs 3,000 years ago. In the evening visit Luxor Temple, spectacularly lit at night. Two nights in Luxor at Eatabe Hotel (4*) or similar.

        Sun 11/22/26 Luxor.  Visit the sites of Luxor on the west bank of the Nile. See the Temple of Hatshepsut, dramatically nestled amidst stark limestone outcrops. Explore the Valley of the Kings with rock-cut corridors leading to tombs of the pharaohs. Entry ticket allows visits to 3 tombs of your choice; King Tut’s tomb costs $20 extra. See the Colossi of Memnon, standing solitary in a field; these 60’ tall statues are the sole remnants of an ancient temple. Night #2 in Luxor.

        Mon 11/23/26  Important Note: The tour ends in Luxor.  You can stay longer in Luxor at your own expense or get a flight from Luxor to USA or fly to Cairo and then to USA.  GeoTours will offer recommendations once you are registered with GeoTours.

        Please note:  The tour ends in Luxor, which means you are responsible for your flight to the USA from Luxor!

        Tue 11/24/26 Arrive home in the USA


        TRIP COST 

        • $2890 –EGYPT Land Tour

        o Price based on sharing a room; single supplement (if available) is +$600

        o Includes 9 nights in Egypt in 4 to 5 star rated hotels

        o 5 star rated Nile River cruise

        o Private tour bus

        o Flight Cairo-Aswan

        o Many entries and activities

        o All breakfasts

        o All meals during the cruise  

        o English-speaking Egyptian guide

        NOT INCLUDED:

        o Airline tickets to/from Egypt - Please Note: Arrival in Cairo and Departure from Luxor (probably flying to Cairo to connect with a return trip to the USA).

        o Egypt visa ($25)

        o Meals not listed above

        o Shopping

        o Optional activities

        o Airport transfers if traveling separate from the group.

        GeoTours will provide detailed information on recommended flights once deposits are paid.

        • Participants will purchase their own international airline tickets. Very Important Note:  Tour begins in Cairo and ends in Luxor.  
        • As of January 2026, the best fares/flights to Cairo are on Royal Air Maroc (subject to change).
        • Depart USA to CAI (Cairo) on 11/13/26. Return from LUX or CAI on 11/23/26 arriving in the USA on 11/24/26.

        o LAX-CAI-LAX costs ~$800 on Air Maroc with one connection in Casablanca. Fares could increase at any time!

        o Luxor (LXR) to CAI on 11/23/26 costs ~$150 on Air Cairo.  Fares might increase at any time!

        REGISTRATION & PAYMENT SCHEDULE

        • Registration online at GeoTours website. A link to register with GeoTours will be sent to you via a separate email when registration opens on the GeoTours website.
        • Payments can be made by:

        o Venmo or Zelle to [email protected] or 310-686-8171 (GeoTours phone).

        o Check to GeoTours LLC, 1547 E. Puente St., Covina CA 91724

        • 1st payment of $400 is due within 7 days of registration.
        • 2nd payment of $500 is due April 30, 2026.
        • 3rd payment of $600 is due June 30, 2026.
        • Final payment is due September 15, 2026.
        • Late penalty of $100 pp for payments made after October 1, 2026.


        PACE/PHYSICAL EFFORT/CULTURE SHOCK

        • This trip has a moderate pace; you should be able to walk up to 3 miles per day.
        • There is one long day on the bus from Aswan to Abu Simbel, about 7 hours in the bus round-trip.
        • Some days start early, departing the hotel at 8 am.
        • The weather in Egypt in November is warm, 75- 85F in the day, 55-60F at night. Egypt gets almost no rain.
        • Egyptians are friendly but sometimes aggressive salespeople (they figure they have 10 seconds to get your attention as you walk past their shops). They drive a hard bargain and prices are rarely labeled. Travelers need to learn to bargain effectively.
        • Poverty and litter are sometimes shocking and depressing.

        TRAVEL INSURANCE

        Although not required, GeoTours and GO strongly recommends that trip participants purchase travel insurance.

        • GeoTours has partnered with Generali Global Assistance (GGA), a well-established provider of travel insurance. You can use this GeoTours-Generali link, and the premium will be the same as going straight to the Generali site.
        • GGA’s ESSENTIAL policy covers Trip Cancellation, Trip Interruption, Medical Evacuation, Medical costs, and Lost/Stolen Baggage. Trip Cancellation coverage means that travel insurance will reimburse non-refundable trip costs if you cancel for a covered reason. Cancellation coverage only works if you purchase the insurance BEFORE a sickness or injury forces you to cancel, and an insurance claim requires a physician’s written advice that you should cancel your trip due to your illness or injury.
        • GGA's ESSENTIAL coverage costs about $250 for a 60-year-old, $3900 trip cost (airfare + GeoTours price), November 13 – 24, 2026. Cost depends on age and is less for younger travelers, more for older travelers.
        • You can also compare travel insurance policies from other providers at squaremouth.com.
        • If you travel frequently, you should consider an annual policy from Allianz.

        CANCELLATION POLICY

        To cancel your participation, you must inform GeoTours in writing or by email. Cancellation date is the date when GeoTours receives your written notice.

        *Cancellation penalty is the amount shown below PLUS any non-recoverable expenses already paid on behalf of the passenger, such as non-refundable tickets or hotel rooms.

        Date of Cancellation

        Cancellation Penalty On or before February 28, 2026 $0

        March 1 – March 31, 2026 $100

        * April 1 – April 30, 2026 $200

        * May 1 – May 31, 2026 $300

        * June 1 – July 31, 2026 $500

        * August 1 – September 30, 2026 $700

        * After October 1, 2026 No Refund

        TERMS AND CONDITIONS 

        Trip participants must agree to the Terms and Conditions below. The program participant agrees that GeoTours LLC and California Great Outdoors Inc. (GO) assume no liability whatsoever for loss of property, injury, accident, illness, death, irregularity, and delays during the duration of the tour. In addition, the program participant agrees to hold GeoTours LLC and GO harmless for damage, delay, or cancellation due to equipment problems, quarantine, pandemic, declared or undeclared war and insurrection, terrorist and criminal activity, revolt, civil disturbance, hostility, military action, strikes, labor unrest, any “act of God” or nature and for any act of any third party.

        The participant, by registering for this tour, agrees that GeoTours LLC and California Great Outdoors Inc. (GO) are not responsible for delays, rerouting, omission, and additional expense resulting from the passenger’s improper travel documents such as passport, visa, and health document. Any losses and expenses related to such circumstances are within the responsibility of the program participants and not of GeoTours LLC or GO. GeoTours LLC and GO are not responsible for acts of any government authority. GeoTours LLC and GO reserve the right to adjust itinerary and contents and to substitute accommodation providers as deemed necessary. GeoTours LLC and GO reserve the right to accept or decline any person as a program participant as well as to refuse to retain any participant’s membership in the program. Participants that do not participate in an activity or entry, or who leave the tour early or arrive late, will not be entitled to any refund. By registering for this tour, the participant agrees to all such terms and conditions.

        Personal Considerations & Safety: 

        While several LGBTQ groups visit Egypt every year with no problems, all participants will need to understand and acknowledge the following cultural notes to ensure the group's safety:

        Egypt is generally not considered safe for openly LGBTQ+ travelers due to conservative social norms, lack of legal protections, and potential persecution under "morality" laws, with arrests and hostility possible, so extreme discretion, avoiding PDA and dressing modestly are crucial for those who choose to visit.

        Key Considerations for LGBTQ+ Travelers:

        • Legal Situation: 

          Homosexuality isn't explicitly outlawed, but "debauchery" and "public morals" laws are used to prosecute LGBTQ+ individuals, with severe penalties like long prison sentences.

        • Social Environment: 

          Public attitudes are conservative, and while some tourists have positive experiences, hostility and potential violence are risks.

        • Discretion is Key: 

          Avoid all public displays of affection (PDA), even for straight couples, and don't wear LGBTQ+ symbols like rainbow attire.

        • Safety in Numbers: 

          Group tours and reputable tour operators (some specifically LGBTQ+-focused) offer better safety and navigation than solo travel.

        • Accommodation: 

          Staying in larger, international hotel chains (Marriott, Hilton) can offer more anonymity than smaller places.

        • Online & Apps: 

          Use extreme caution with social media apps like Grindr.

        • Gender Non-Conformity: 

          Transgender individuals may face scrutiny; binding for FTM individuals is suggested to avoid unwanted attention.

        Tips for a Safer Trip:

        • Dress modestly: Blend in by adhering to local cultural norms.
        • Be discreet: Don't openly discuss your sexuality or gender identity.
        • Consider a fake ring: Wearing a fake wedding/engagement ring can deflect unwanted questions from locals.
        • Stay aware: Be mindful of your surroundings, especially in less touristy areas or at night.

        While many travelers report successful trips by taking precautions, the risk of legal trouble or harassment exists, making it essential to prioritize safety and cultural sensitivity.


        This is simply a notice and if you are interested please list your name on this GO registration.   When GeoTour's registration opens you will be sent a link for registration.

        You must register DIRECTLY on the GeoTours website/link if you intend to partake in this tour; GeoTours will handle EVERYTHING, payments, room assignments, administration of the tour, etc.

        We expect the GeoTours site to go live February 16! 

        Only registered members will receive a link for GeoTours when registration opens.



        We are excited!  Are you?

        Lance Whitmier is the Trip Leader

        Joe Holiday is the coordinator with the Travel Company hosting our group.


        Lance and Joe are working together to make this an exciting and memorable event!

        If you have any questions:

        [email protected]

        We are ready to do it again!  

        Join us!

        Here are photos from our last Cruise (Iceland, Norway, Belgium, Amsterdam and London) and our Guided tour ( 8-day Musical Journey through the South) .  Here are some photos from those excursions and needless to say it was spectacular. 


        Photos from the Iceland Cruise:

        In Norway meeting new friends.


        Viewing our ship below!

        Chowing down and Cheers to you!



        Below:  Photos from the 8-Day Musical Journey through the South

        Photo of us in Memphis - Beale Street!


        At the Tina Turner Museum

        Ready to board our bus to experience another amazing day!


        In New Orleans!



        • Sun, November 15, 2026
        • 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
        • 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA 92027
        Register

        SAN DIEGO SAFARI PARK/SOCIAL

        This year we will be hiking through the famous San Diego Safari Park on Sunday Nov 15th @ 10:00am. We will hike through the park in its entirety including taking a ride on the Africa Tram. Tickets/membership should be purchased prior to the event. If this is an event you would like to participate in but cannot access it due to finances, please reach out to KJ Archer at [email protected]

        San Diego Zoo Safari Park - Wikipedia

        Details: We will hike through the park going counter-clockwise

        Host: KJ Archer (619-214-6353)

        RSVP: Please RSVP so I know how many to expect. If we have a large group, please mask/social distance, as needed.

        Meeting Location: 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA 92027

        https://maps.app.goo.gl/LgYq5MSbDxM2GZ4J7

        Meeting Date & Time: Sunday Nov 15th @ 10:00am inside the front entrance at the map stand - We will plan to leave from the inside of the park entrance at 10:15am.

        Parking: Parking is $20/vehicle for standard and $45/vehicle for preferred parking. Carpooling is recommended to keep costs down.

        Cost: Self purchased membership/tickets required for entry

        Time Commitment: Plan for approx. 4-6 hours, group dependent  



        Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

        Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.

        • Sun, November 22, 2026
        • 2:00 PM
        • Wed, November 25, 2026
        • 12:00 PM
        • Ramona, CA
        • Dos Picos County Park Trip Notes

          Dos Picos County Park is located in Ramona, California. Its name is Spanish for "two peaks," derived from the two prominent mountains nearby. The surrounding ranch land and steep rocky slopes help preserve its secluded atmosphere.

          This park is known for its magnificent Oak trees.  The landscape is a mixture of chaparral, open grassland, and oak woodland. Coyote, fox, possum, skunk, and raccoon are all seen in the park regularly.

          The city of Ramona is minutes away when driving.  You may purchase food and other supplies there.

          Maximum RV length is 40 feet.  All sites have E/W. Several sites will be dedicated as tent sites.  These sites can have three tents, max and two cars.  The water spigots at these sites are unique.  It is housed in a plastic box that sits below ground level.  

          Tent campers, all the sites are gravel.   Your tent will likely be pitched on gravel.  Please bring blow-up mattresses or cots to sleep on, so you are not sleeping on gravel.  Tents should also bring extension cords. 

          At each site there is room for an RV and tow vehicle, or two vehicles.  Extra vehicles can park in the overflow lot for a total of $9, which is paid by GOPS.  The overflow parking lot is NOT close.  It’s located on the opposite side of the campground from our sites, so car camping would NOT be a good choice, please bring a tent.

          Leashed dogs are welcome at $1/night/dog.  Campers will pay for their own dogs upon check-in at the campground. 

          Sites 63 & 69 are ADA sites.  If you have an ADA placard, please let the trip leader know.   

          We will have access to the indoor pavilion and its outdoor picnic area.  It is located in the middle of all our sites.  There is a massive fire pit. The use of that pavilion and its outdoor space was an additional cost that was figured into the cost of this campout.  Typical weather in this area in November is high 73, low 42.

          Cancellation policy: cancel for full refund minus a $10 fees on or before Nov 10th, 2024.

          Dos Picos County Park Campground

          17953 Dos Picos Park Road

          Ramona, CA 92065

          (760) 789-2220 

          Trip Leader Contact: Robert Varga

        • [email protected]

        • (760) 641-9112 text messages only

        Dos Picos Campout Schedule of Events

        Disclaimer: the following schedule is tentative and could change without notice. Check-in and Check-out are set in stone, no changing those.

        Sunday, November 24

        • 2:00 pm - Check-in (please don't arrive early)
        • 6:00 pm – Meet and Greet, in the Pavilion, bring finger food to share if you want.  
        • 7:00 pm – Dinner on your own, but you’ll probably be satiated from grazing the finger food, so join the group fire early!
        • 8:00 pm - group fire, please bring firewood, $6/bundle at the park

        Monday, November 25

        • 7:00 am – coffee by our Bombastic Barista, Mike and a PUMPKIN PANCAKES AND EGGS breakfast in the Pavilion!
        • 10:00 am – local hike somewhere close by
        • 1:00 pm – activity on your own or impromptu group activity
        • 6:00 pm – PotLuck dinner in the Pavilion. 
        • 8:00 pm - group fire, please bring firewood, $6/bundle at the park

        Tuesday, November 26

        • 7:00 am – Coffee by our Bombastic Barista, Mike and continental breakfast items in the Pavilion
        • 10:00 am – local hike somewhere close by
        • 1:00 pm – Special for us: tour and wine tasting of a local vineyard owned by an x-GOSD member and his husband. pocomontana.com
        • 5:00 pm – dinner on your own
        • 6:30 pm - Raffle!!!  $5/ticket or 5 tickets for $20;  see the prize display in the Pavillon. 
        • 8:00 pm - group fire, please bring firewood, $6/bundle at the park

        Wednesday, November 27

        • 7:00 am – Coffee by our Bombastic Barista, Mike and continental breakfast items in the Pavilion
        • 9:00 am - pack up and clean up, say our tearful goodbyes
        • 12:00 pm - Check out

        Have a GREAT Thanksgiving!!







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